Much has been made about the new direction that trance icon Tiesto embarked upon with his latest album Kaleidoscope with some fans, and particularly vocal ITMers, bemoaning his movements away from his traditional trance roots in pursuit of a more indie flavour. Yet despite all the fuss, it would seem as though Tiesto’s attracting new fans in unexpected places, including none other than UNKLE mastermind James Lavelle.

When ITM caught up with Lavelle during his trip out here last month, the prolific DJ and producer chatted about the goodies in his record bag, explaining to both his our surprise that he’d become a bit of fan of Tiesto’s Kaleidoscope.

“I love clubby records. I like kind of soundtrack-y, euphoric, melodic but dark house and techno records,” he began. “I grew up with techno and hip hop, and I have that influence when I approach house. Is that even what you call it? What do you call it now? Electronic music? I play everything from James Holden to Carl Craig to Sasha. I can’t believe it; I actually played a Tiesto record on the weekend. Now, that is mental. That record he did with Sigur Ros; it’s brilliant but I couldn’t believe I was actually playing a Tiesto record!” he laughed.

Knowing Tiesto’s propensity for collaborating with pretty much everyone these days, we have to wonder if a studio hook up is on the cards? Lavelle just put away his glow-sticks first…