This DJ profile takes a look at a relative new comer to both the DJ and dance music scene. Lanithium has been mixing for nearly two years and has already firmly established himself within the local trance scene. With trance not being one of the most ‘favoured’ genres in our scene, it’s great to see a newcomer so devoted to the style. Having had the honour of catching him play at the last two OeP events, I was impressed with his ability to both read a crowd and mix so smoothly. I think we are definitely going to be hearing a lot more from this talented and passionate DJ.

You can check Lanithium out at future OeP events and to keep updated on his other upcoming gigs check out his website: http://www.lanithium.com


I’ve heard many DJ’s describe how they first got into dance music. For some it was hearing a single track, an album or even attending an event. What was it that initially got you hooked on dance music?

I think it was around year 10 that I was first introduced to dance music. I was at a friend’s house listening to music when he put on The Prodigy Experience album. I was instantly hooked!

So how did you end up as a DJ? Where was your first gig and what was it like?

I have always loved music, however I never had any real desire to become more involved with it. It wasn’t until I started going to events that I knew I wanted to learn how to DJ. At that time I had no money so it was just a dream, but in March 2002 (2 years later) that dream became reality when I bought my setup!

I started playing at friends parties every now and then, but it wasn’t until July 2003 that I played in my first club environment. It was a regular night at the Soda Room (Pallas Complex) in Northbridge. There wasn’t a very big turnout but that didn’t bother me I was just happy to be out playing the music I love in public!

Describe the ‘Lanithium’ sound…

Anywhere from chilled easy listening to energetic and uplifting (epic!) trance.


You are obviously very much into trance. Are there other genres that you enjoy?

I enjoy most music. I can go somewhere and will happily listen to whatever is playing at the time, as long as it is easy on the ears!


Who are some artists or DJ’s that influence or inspire your chosen sound?

Armin van Buuren is definitely the one that has inspired me the most. His mixing, tune selection, productions and his enthusiasm toward music is simply amazing. Others include Tiesto, Solarstone, Push, Pulser, Ferry Corsten, Paul van Dyk, Lange and Thrillseekers.

What tunes are rocking your crate at the present moment?

Sonicvibe & Mike Shiver – Lunation (Masters & Nickson Remix)
Mark Otten – Mushroom Therapy (Armin van Buuren Remix)
Super 8 – Alba
Primer – Indulge
Re:Locate – Passion
St. John vs Locust – Mind Circles
Octagen & Arizona – Starburst


What are your thoughts on Perth’s dance music scene?

Considering the population that we have, the quality of events and performers we have here is outstanding. However there seems to be a lot of unnecessary competition between genres. People here aren’t as open minded as I have found in other parts of Australia and the world.


Within the local arena there are so many talented DJ’s and producers. Who would you say has impressed you and why?

Jon Noonan is doing extremely well for himself at the moment, always great going back 2 back with him at OeP events. A few others who need no introduction; Ondy, Hutcho, Adam Kelly and Choice.

Production-wise I haven’t really heard much from the locals.


Perth sometimes misses out on headlining acts and big name DJs at festivals/events due to its location and size. As a result, many events/club nights held are quite reliant on local talent and support. Do you think this has a positive or negative impact on the development of the scene?

It’s disappointing that Perth is missing out on such a wide variety of acts but in a sense it’s great because more locals are getting the chance to get out there and play at these big events. It’s great that promoters can turn to locals in situations like this and rely on them to get the job done as well as bring a crowd to the event.


Have you ever done any production work or do you plan to in the future?

Nothing as yet, I would love to get into producing (Perth definitely needs some uplifting trance producers!). The future is uncertain but I would definitely look at getting into producing later down the course of my experience.


When you’re not cranking the tunes what else do you do besides DJing? Do you get much spare time and if so what do you do for fun?

I work full time which doesn’t leave me with much time during the week, weekends I usually just spend with my girlfriend/friends. I love swimming so I spend a lot of time either in the pool or sitting on the side catching the sun.


Food and drink wise, what is it that cranks your tractor?

Pizza and pasta are among my favourites and to drink it’s usually Stella Artois or Scotch.


What have been your favourite gigs that you’ve been to and/or played at?

Favourite gigs that I’ve been to… ahh there’s been so many! The ones that stand out would be Perfecto Tour in 2000 (My first 18+ event), Gatecrasher Summer Sound System 2001 (My first time seeing Armin!) and Paul van Dyk in 2001.
Solarstone in December 2003 was the first main event I played at so this will always be special to me. And recently going back 2 back with the headlining interstate DJ at Omega: Trancefixion was a great experience!


So, what’s next on your agenda? Do your future plans involve dance music and if so, to what extent?

I can’t picture my future without dance music, trance will always be my passion and to make it my career would be a dream come true.