Audio Playback #10 - Justin Van Der Volgen

Hailing from Sacramento, CA with roots in breakdancing, skateboarding and punk rock, Justin Van Der Volgen has willed into existence an illustrious career spanning both coasts as a producer, DJ and label boss. 

A key player in New York City disco punk outfits !!! (Chk Chk Chk) and Out Hud, Van Der Volgen turned toward straight-ahead dance music by 2010 bringing forth one of the most devastating edits of the early decade, Edit Channel XXX. With a remix / edit catalog that now boasts works for Alexander Robotnick and Todd Terje, among many many others, it is our honor and privilege to present this exquisite mix as part of our Audio Playback series! 

Justin Van Der Volgen lives and works in Brooklyn, NY -- pictured above on the road in Los Angeles, 2022. 

 

Where would you say you grew up?

I was born and grew up in Sacramento, California. 

In what city were your most memorable times?

I’ve spent half my life in Sacramento and the other half in Brooklyn. I think going to basement shows and being exposed to DIY culture in California in the 90s probably had just as big an effect as going to clubs and being exposed to the dance music scene in NY in the early 00’s. I’ve had incredible times in Japan too. 

Where are you currently based and what do you like about living there?

I currently live in Brooklyn, NY. I like my studio, the food, culture, life with my wife, pretty much everything except for the cost of living and being away from my family in Sac.

What’s your favorite city to work in (dj)?

So many great places, but I’ll go with the LE party in Portland. 

What are your “must haves” when you travel for work?

Glide floss, Alka Seltzer, and clean socks are nice.

What’s currently on your rider request?

It's been a minute now so I can’t remember exactly but it's gotta be beer, whiskey and wine. A little something for everyone. 

Do you dance when you go to a party and aren’t DJing?

Definitely if I like the song. If I don’t I walk off the floor though. 

Beatles or Rolling Stones?

I like both.

Paradise Garage or The Loft?

Never went to the Paradise Garage, been to the Loft a bunch of times and love it but Rub N Tug is my favorite. 

What’s your most memorable club/disco moment?

Too many, but I’ll go with the whole 2012 Keep it Cheap tour in Japan with Paul and Eric. So fun!


What's your favorite party phrase?

Get it!