SoundOf focuses on the DJs and producers who are making waves in the dance music underground.

Each edition features an exclusive mix and interview with an artist who has been handpicked by the team at Ministry Magazine.

This week we're back in the UK with one of the hottest emerging talents in the UK house revival. Bontan burst onto the scene in 2013 with his  Hit From The Back EP  on Kraftek. 

Ahead of his Box debut supporting Doorly and Mark Radford at Audio Rehab on August 16th, we thought now was the perfect opportunity to get him in for a Spotlight mix. A dedicated fan of underground house from an early age, his mix is littered with some of the finest examples of forward-thinking house music of 2014.

Listen to his groove-focused mix and read our exclusive interview below.

 

 

MoS: First of all thanks for doing an exclusive mix for us, what did you go for in the mix? Is this a representation of what you play out now or more what you listen to at home?

Bontan: I went for a mix of just solid grooves that I have been supporting in all my sets.

 

For those who may be new to your music, how would you describe your sound?

I would describe my sound as raw, grooving house music!

 

How did you first get in to music, when did you know you wanted to be DJ?

Well I started playing piano when I was about 5 years old and that was basically the only thing I was interested in. I got into DJing when I was 15 I have been doing it ever since.

 

What have you got coming up on the horizon?

My new release Gadgets & Buttons will be out mid August. I have a remix for Suara out late August. Also mine and Josh Butlers new collab will be out early September.

 

What can the Ministry of Sound crowd expect from your set at Audio Rehab?

They can expect to be taken on a journey through house grooves!

 

What do you think of the state of dance music at the minute?

I think it's in a fantastic state. I was walking around the Trafford Centre in Manchester last week and every shop I walked past had house music pumping out. That cant be a bad thing, right?

 

Who are the most exciting underground artists that our readers might not have heard of but who you think will be big names to come?

For me it has to be Sidney Charles, Josh Butler, Truth Be Told, Weiss, Sonny Fodera. All these guys are making amazing stuff!

 

Who are your biggest influences?

Kerri Chandler, Dennis Ferrer & Masters At Work.

 

What do you like to do on your day off, what's a typical Sunday like for you?

Lying in bed eating crap food and playing relentless games of FIFA.

 

How do you prepare for a gig?

Well I never prepare sets. I make sure I have all the music I need, but I never plan a set. I feel you can't pre-judge a crowd. You have to feel it when you get on the decks!

 

Who are your dream collaborators, past or present?

This is a tough one! I would have to go for Daft Punk, Masters At Work or James Brown.

 

Tell us something we don't know about Bontan?

I have a fear of flying! Not the best thing to have for a DJ!