Slater Hogan heats up Flask Friday, November 22nd.
You started DJing in 1998. How has becoming a father impacted your career as a DJ today?
It’s almost the other way around. It is DJing, as my career that allows for a flexible work schedule. I was able to be around Jack (my son) all the time during the day. Most parents who work 9 to 5 don’t get that opportunity. Jack’s mom always says, “It takes a village to raise a child.” We have a great support system helping out when I’m working the late-night hours.
You’ve performed all around the world. You’ve released 100’s of tracks on various labels. What brings you to Flask Lounge?
My friend Zebo told me how great the vibe was at Flask the night he played, and he put me in touch with Mikey (DJ Phaded), and we were able to work it out. I’ve never been to Maine. So I am excited to see Portland and get down with everyone!
I’m ashamed to admit I had no idea just how prominent he was in the midwest house music scene, so being able to host him as my guest DJ at Flask is extremely exciting.
-Mike Dear (DJ PHADED)
How can small venues, like Flask, help keep the EDM scene growing and vibrant without having access to piles of cash and charging high priced covers?
I am co-owner of the Patron Saint in Indianapolis, and our capacity is only 185. We understand the small club mentality. I think the intimate venues allow DJ’s to go deeper into their crates and play stuff they may not play on bigger stages. When the rave culture started, it was more about the music than it was about LED walls and EFX. The EDM scene has taken electronic music and turned it into a rock concert with all the confetti, CO2, fire, etc. I’d much prefer to play a dark, intimate room with people that appreciate House music.
What lights you up as a DJ, and what makes you roll your eyes and shake your head?
I love it when the crowd recognizes the blend. When I first started playing overseas, I noticed the crowd would whistle when two records were blending together and creating a better groove then the records playing individually. They were so knowledgeable about DJ culture. You don’t get that a lot in the States. I guess my biggest pet peeve would be people who request a song by pulling it up on their phone and shoving it in your face lol.
What’s your favorite track you have produced?
Probably my remix of Truman Industries “Love Plus” It’s a fun, jazzy, disco vibe but also shared remixing credits on that release with Derrick Carter, and he’s always been a significant influence in my style.
It’s a Friday night, and you have no plans. What are you doing?
Finding a dive bar with a great jukebox and deep tequila selection.
Do you have any hidden talents?
A lot of people don’t know that I played tennis at Butler University and have been teaching tennis for 30 years.
What kind of tequila should I buy for your upcoming show at Flask on November 22nd?
Uh oh! Haha. Maestro Dobel Diamante is one of my fav’s. But I also love Fernet.
What are your upcoming shows? Anything I can help promote?
SWEAT @ Flask Lounge in Portland, ME! Let’s blow it up!
The best way for people to connect with you and listen to your music?
Facebook: www.facebook.com/djslaterhogan/
IG: www.instagram.com/slaterhogan
SoundCloud and Mixcloud