We catch up with Rory Phillips
Ex Trash resident now leading the team of residents at Durrr
After being invited to play at Trash by founder Erol Alkan, Rory Philips became an integral part of the club. Fuelled by a boundless love of music, Rory's come a long way, bringing his own musical passions and special style to Trash. Trash hung up its gloves after 10 years of parties, but Rory continued wowing the crowds at Durrr. Read on for the full Rory story via this interview, taken in July '05 while Trash was still in full swing.
Endclub.com: How did you start DJing and then get involved with Trash?
Rory Philips: I started DJing around 8 years ago when I was living in Wales. I was bored with the other nights around so I just nagged the owner of the club I worked at to let me start my own. I got involved with Trash when I moved to London about 5 years ago and became friends with Erol. I initially just worked on the website but when Trash moved to The End, Erol invited me to come and play in the second room on the strength of some of the new music I was introducing him to.
Trash is an influential and important club in many ways, not least because it supports new bands and new music. What have been the best moments for you at Trash in terms of breaking new music?
We've had a few acts whose shows we announced when they were incredibly unknown and when they actually come to play all hell breaks loose, like Peaches and Yeah Yeah Yeahs, those are pretty memorable. But the most satisfying thing is putting on somebody who barely anyone who goes to the club will know, like Les Georges Leningrad last year, and having them completely get into it.
What bands and singles are you into at the moment?
I still can't say enough good things about The Long Blondes, as every single they release is stunning. Les Georges Leningrad are putting on some of the best live shows I've seen of late, and London's Good Shoes are easily the best unsigned band in the country.
Are there any groups from the past that you'd love to have heard at Trash?
We had Suicide already so I can't say them. I don't know - there are so many! Talking Heads, Sonic Youth or Devo in their prime would be incredible at Trash.
You've played in New York. How do London and New York compare for you?
The cocktails and sandwiches in New York are better!
In 2002 you recorded a DJ set for the Peel Sessions. What are your memories of the late great John Peel?
He was a really nice man, they say you should never meet your heroes but I am glad I did in this case. I used to work at Radio 1 and will always remember him taking naps under his desk. My first week there I was mortified to have almost tripped over his legs sticking out from underneath.
What have been your best nights out ever, as a punter and as a DJ?
Optimo in Glasgow amazes me every time I've been there. And when myself and the other And Did We Mention Our Disco DJs were asked to cover for the residents while they were away, it was one of the most fun DJing experiences I have ever had.
Who are your all-time musical heroes in terms of music, style or attitude?
Thurston Moore, John Peel, Mark Mothersbaugh, Joe Meek.
Published: 15/07/2005
