Lucas Benjamin (31) is an Amsterdam-based DJ, promoter and all around musicologist.
He founded MORE BOUNCE, a bi-monthly Funk party in Amsterdam who also recently released their first Modern Funk compilation ‘Feeding U New Knocks Vol.1’. Besides that he is also a resident at Wicked Jazz Sounds and started his own label Wicked Wax. His roots are in the Hip Hop culture where he started out as young B-Boy at the age of 12 and started digging for records around the age of 15/16. He continued to combine this passion for dancing with DJ-ing until a few years ago when he decided to fully focus on the music.
1. What’s your favorite tune to cruise at night?
The Pinch – “Shot Out”” (1984)
One of the first tunes that came to mind, probably because of that pumpin’ bass line. First time I heard it my face morphed uncontrollably into different stank-forms. I don’t even have a car, but I imagine myself cruisin’ to this for sure. Shout-out to PPU for re-releasing this gem in 2010.
2. What’s your favorite tune to chill?
Lamont Johnson – “Music Of The Sun” (1978)
When I found this record it brought me into such a serene clear state of relaxation. From the wonderful strings arrangement, to the soothing soulful voice telling you about the music of the sun. This track is life.
3.What’s your favorite tune for a romantic evening?
Dwele – “Wake The Baby” (feat Boney James) (2008)
I’m a sucker for soft falsettos and Dwele is definitely one of the kings in that field. Dim the lights, put some candles on and light some incense, then press play and see how the mood will change instantly.
4. What’s your favorite tune to shake your body down to the ground?
Fela Kuti – “Roforofo Fight” (1972)
I love to dance to so many different kinds of music but Fela conquered his own area in my soul and these grooves never fail to move me to the max. This track was also one of my gateways into African music which I still play a lot in my sets and even organise Afro Specials a few times every year.
5. What’s the tune that gives you instant nostalgia?
Cashmere – “Do It Anyway You Wanna” (1982)
One of the first video-tapes I had as a dancer was of a German B-Boy called Swift Rock and his tape was filled with excellent tunes like Manzel – ‘Space Funk’, Fatback Band – ‘I Found Lovin’, Unlimited Touch – “Searching To Find The One” and many others. But this one still touches me deeply after all those years.
Follow Lucas:
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/lucasbenjamin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/more.bounce
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/morebouncecollective