Regaining CNTRL

By Maciejka Gorzelnik

Technology is rapidly advancing in the music world and some DJs say it is difficult to keep up.

According to Indiana University School of Music professor Jeffery Hass’s Electronic Music Historical Overview, electronic music began in 1902 when Thaddeaus Cahill produced different pitched hums and broadcast them over telephone lines.

Modern day electronic dance music is deeply rooted in Detroit with LaSalle, Ont. native Richie Hawtin being one of its pioneers. On Nov. 7 Hawtin will return to Windsor as a part of a North American university tour with CNTRL bringing with him Loco Dice, Carl Craig and Ean Golden. A seminar will be held at the Ambassador Auditorium at the University of Windsor at 5 p.m. followed by a performance at The Boom Boom Room 9 p.m..

The focus, according to information on the Facebook event page, will be on the “techno and technology aspects of modern day electronic music, presenting the more futuristic and underground side of the genre, as championed by Hawtin and his peers.”

Local DJ Martin Southall said he plans on attending the event and hopes this will inspire young producers.

“I think this is a great initiative,” said Southall. “With the access to this technology becoming more widespread, it’s great that an artist and icon of this calibre is willing to share his knowledge and passion for making music.”

EDM is not for everyone and still has many critics. Kyle Prestanski said he has been to a few techno shows but generally tries to avoid the scene.

“The music generally sounds the same irrespective of the DJ,” said Prestanski. “I used to be in a band and I can appreciate the level of hard work, skill and dedication that goes into playing an instrument. It doesn’t take talent to press buttons. DJs are just glorified drum machines.”

CNTRL is aimed at defeating these kinds of views of EDM. Remo Agostino, owner of The Boom Boom Room said shows like this will help educate younger fans.

“The intimacy of such small venues creates a certain community feel to the show. The intimacy allows you to really get into what’s going on,” said Agostino. “It may not be everyone’s thing and that’s O.K., techno likes to keep its doors on a tight hinge, but it might be just right for you.”

For more information visit the Facebook event page, CNTRL, Windsor ON.