the vinyl only experience
In many respects, the old ways are better
In this age of digital absorption, the vinyl listening experience takes us back to the old school days of analogue. Analogue recordings and pressings on vinyl bring a certain feel and experience, not just in the way we listen, but also the environment and context we are in.
And yet, there is much more to this.
Vinyl records store sound as a continuous wave whereas digital formats store sound as data. Sounds from vinyl are more dynamic and warm, are more compatible with loudness and are often a direct copy of the master analogue recording.
Where the stylus hits the groove is where magic happens.
How else can a stylus caress over and collect such precise and perfect information from physical formations? How else other than magic can physical grooves translates to vibrations and then to waves and then to sound with such immersion and connection? All of life is a set of frequencies; the environment and context we are in matters.
It matters so much.
For me, this art matters. The vinyl record is presented only in the physical form; the DJ experience only through physical handles and manipulation of two turntables and a crossfader. It takes physical effort to change songs and play. There is no software algorithm determining listening pathways or automatically syncing songs. The algorithm is in the mind and the skills of the DJ and in the careful curation of music. The ways we express effort and talent and skill and curation matters.
It matters so much.
In many respects, the old ways are better.
We're bringing this experience back and with new energy and old and new music to deliver a vinyl experience.
Artistry over algorithms.
John Rawnsley
why a vinyl dj?
Artistry over algorithms
My passion is developing skills and sets using the old school system of two turntables and a crossfader. In this form there is no auto sync button; no reliance on software programs. I only use Serato (that integrates with turntables and provides a wider selection of content) if the requirements of a corporate client and the type of show demands it, and only on very rare occasions. My time and practice goes into bringing it back to the old school ways and building the culture. For me, it's about extending the vinyl listening experience to the room and spaces we share.
Fairer for artists and industry
Vinyl records give artists more power, equity and value in their creative work. Many online music platforms rip artists off. For the creative industry more broadly I support, recognize and actively encourage independent record stores and what they do for community and culture. On Larrakia country, I'm appreciative of what Air Raid Records delivers to this place. My work cultivating an interest in vinyl is also about the ethical foundation to support artists and independent record stores.
Sound of analogue is better
Vinyl records are analogue and record sound as a continuous wave whereas digital formats sample and store sound as data. Sounds from vinyl are more dynamic and warm, are more compatible with loudness and are often a direct copy of the master analogue recording. With comparable and suitable Hi-Fi systems, the sound of analogue is better.
Support community
I have a passion for this art, so am often out there giving back to community by cultivating an interest in vinyl and turntablism.