If you’ve boogied on a Sydney dance floor at any point over the past two decades, chances are you know the name Barney Kato. A beloved veteran of the electronic music scene, Barney has long been a fixture behind the decks while also playing a pivotal role in the city’s underground through his enduring Alien party series, including a string of acclaimed Vivid LIVE Studio events at the Sydney Opera House.
A DJ of Barney's pedigree and one of 77's go-to residents, who better to helm the reopening weekend Saturday night than the T-U-N-E man himself? And alongside resident young gun Mazzacles, no less. Limber up, it’s about the get loose.
You recently threw another Studio Party at Sydney Opera House for Vivid featuring Luca Lozano and Mr Ho. How was the night? Any standout moments?
The Vivid Studio Parties is a time of year that brings everyone out and into the one room. To have an amazing mix of friends and music lovers from all walks of life is the absolute highlight and being able to share that with iconic international talent is a huge buzz. It was also super fun to perform with Ash [Tunnel Signs]; a full set of our own original Barney In The Tunnel productions.
Do international artists give an automatic ‘yes’ to being offered a gig at the Opera House?
Yeah, pretty much, apart from extenuating factors.
The Studio is far from your typical nightclub. How does the vibe of that space change the way you think about programming lineups, curating the party, or what to play?
I guess it has somewhat of an effect, especially because it’s a lot larger than the usual spaces a Barney party would inhabit. I try to bring the vibe of my parties over the years that caught the Opera House’s attention in the first place, so the goal is to throw a Barney party (Alien, Breakbeat Chaos, or whatever) but turned up to 11.
What's the biggest misconception people have about putting together a party?
That parties need to be huge spectacles and packed full. Small spaces that are 60-75% full of good crew can be way more magical.
You celebrated 25 years of DJing last year with an East Coast tour. What are your fondest recollections looking back on that time?
The tour was so much fun. All the shows exceeded expectations and it was great to connect with friends all up and down the east coast. A great reminder of the beautiful connections made through music over 25 years.
What stands out as the biggest turning point in your journey as a DJ and promoter over your career?
I don’t think there really has been one. I’ve never really been into hype; I’ve just kept doing my thing and have managed to outlive, outlast and survive.
As Ice Cube once said, ‘Life Ain’t a Track Meet, It’s A Marathon.’
If anything, the decisions I’ve made on what I do and don’t want to do, in music and the scene, and just being true to myself, have been the closest things to a turning point.
What’s happening for you on the production front at the moment? Any releases or projects on the boil?
We’ve been working on a bunch of new Barney In The Tunnel stuff and are keen to release more. We have heaps of dope demos and new tunes, but we’re terrible at sending them out. If any labels are looking for music, hit us up!
What’s your favourite track to play at the moment?
I never really have a favourite track I can conjure up in my mind. For me, deejaying is more about the total experience of the set rather than one track. Lately I’ve been lucky to play for crowds that are super up for hearing all kinds of good music, so I just try to serve up a good mix including something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue. MAKE OF THAT WHAT YOU WILL.
As a film buff and sci-fi nerd, are there any movies you’ve seen recently you can recommend?
Johnny Mnemonic. I always thought it looked lame, but I read William Gibson’s short story it was based on, which inspired me to give it a watch. I think it’s aged super well. Keanu’s meltdown ¾ of the way through is all time!
If you could go back in time and gift young Barney cutting his teeth on the Newcastle scene some valuable advice, what would it be?
Get the fuck out of Newcastle and travel overseas.
Catch Barney Kato and Mazzacles for our first Saturday night back at Club 77 on August 01 from 10pm til 5am.
See event information, register for free entry before midnight via guest list, and grab early bird tickets via RA.
Stay up to date with Barney Kato on Instagram and stream via Soundcloud.
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