Photo by Kristin Verby

HotDish Makes Its Way to Fargo for “The House Boat”

By Brittany Negaard
Staff Writer

This Friday, HotDish, the Minneapolis deejay crew made up of Nate Laurence and J Mathews, will join local deejays Jordash, Econ, and Dusty J to bring you “The House Boat.”

The show, a spin-off the 80s TV series “The Love Boat,” will take you on a electronic dance music voyage captained by some really great deejays.

Laurence and Mathews of HotDish, veterans of Minneapolis First Avenue nightclub, will be performing together for the first time in Fargo. They have been a duo for almost three years, and are planning their third anniversary show at First Avenue later this summer. James Mathews took the time to answer some questions about HotDish and the upcoming show.

High Plains Reader: How did you come up with the name “HotDish?”

James Mathews: Nate and I were looking for a name that could have meaning to it, and also something that could be fun to play on words ... HotDish has meaning for us because we see our shows as a healthy mix for everyone. Nate and I focus on providing a safe venue where there is no drama and that people can just be themselves at.
 
HPR: How long have you been playing music? Have you always been interested in music?

JM: I’ve been DJing for 13 years now ... I have always been interested in EDM since I was in highschool. Its funny looking back at it because I was really only one of few people in my high school that was into it.

HPR: Where are u from originally?

JM: I’m originally from Minneapolis, MN. Born and raised. I spent three and a half years out in Boston deejaying which was a lot of fun. That’s where I learned more about deep-house music, Detroit techno and tech-house.

HPR: What do you enjoy about being residents at First Avenue?

JM: It’s an honor and a treat to be part of First Ave. When I was starting out, I used to go there all the time to see great deejays. It’s also one of the most professional places to play ... It’s also nice to say that I play for a historic venue where Prince played and filmed “Purple Rain”.

HPR: Any memorable moments from over the years?

JM: One that really stands out from the past few years is the first time I played in Fargo. It was at the Aquarium and it was a riot. I think there were close to 300 people in the place. I was doing a tag set with Chrystal Mann, and half way through the night there was a guy on crutches hopping on one foot and waving his crutches up in the air. He was having the time of his life. I will never forget that.

HPR: What can someone expect if they attend the show?

JM: Dolphins with lasers strapped to their backs, rainbows, unicorns, you know, the usual stuff. Just kidding. You can expect nothing but the best music from us. Nate and I are both really passionate about deejaying and getting the crowd going. We love to play music that has big bass, slammin’ samples, and chugging dancefloor burners. I am anticipating some face melting and kicks on fire.

HPR: How has your music changed or evolved over the years?

JM: Over the years I have kept true to house music and have explored a lot of the different genres that it has to offer. I love me some tech house, electro, jackin and funky cuts, techno and even a good deep sexy house mix. My tastes for the music are always changing, but always true to the original four four tempo and characteristics of house music. Its always been a strong passion for me. Don’t get me wrong, I love some good drum and bass or even some of the dubstep out there, but house will always be my first love.

HPR: We know HotDish will continue to play the first Saturday of every month at First Avenue, any other plans for the summer?

JM: This summer I will be playing my first Silent Disco party in Minneapolis which is going to be very cool. It’s where everyone listens to the DJ only in headphones.  It’s a trip and I am honored to play it. It’s for the River’s Edge Music Festival and there is a huge lineup of music artists. Also, I am playing an outdoor event in Cloquet, Minnesota which is a camp out and all day music event with multiple stages. I’m also looking forward to rooftop parties, house parties and whatever else comes my way.

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IF YOU GO

WHAT: The House Boat
WHERE: The Nestor Tavern
WHEN: Friday, May 25, 9 p.m.
HOW MUCH: $5 for ages 21+