Ocean Lam is based in Hong Kong and is the resident DJ at Oma Club. Having released a string of great releases on Opilec Music, We Are Play Music, and Berlin’s Biotop Label, plus remixing for the likes of Yard One, we talk to the Ocean about music and life as an artist in 2024. Also about Ocean’s forthcoming European tour.
Welcome to Magazine Sixty, Ocean. Let’s start with where people can hear you DJ and can you tell us about some of the latest music you have been working on?
Hello, Greg. I’m based in Hong Kong. I’m a resident DJ at Oma Club and tour across Asia and Europe. Clubs like Goldengate are among my favorites, I’ve been playing there every time I visit Berlin over the past 8 years, and I am very grateful that they have supported me from the start. I’m happy to say my European tour starts at Goldengate in April. Then over to Italy for my recent EP “Dimah” release party in Torino hosted by Opilec Music and my first time in Vercelli for First Night Festival, very excited about this!
Lastly, you can also find my mix sets and releases on my Soundcloud page, including lots of great music from some of my favorite labels and channels. I have been putting out mixes for international channels for over 10 years, and I’m still loving it!
Recently, I’ve been working on two music projects in collaboration with Francesco Mami from Italy and Sousk from the UK for Serialism Records. They’re not only my favorite producers but also my friends. I’m eagerly anticipating the outcome and am quite excited about it.
Listening to your DJ mixes sounds like an exciting exploration of moods and diverse styles. What are the most important things you look for in music?
The most important aspect for me is the way music makes me feel; it should be captivating enough to grab my attention and make me feel good, want to listen repeatedly, and dance. I also treasure music from my friends, which always finds a place in my playlists for gigs and podcast, and which I enjoy personally too.
I strive to blend various styles together, influenced by the mood of different dance floors and the surrounding atmosphere. It brings a sense of surprise to each set, almost like an experiment that’s never the same. The key to a memorable set is the DJ’s enjoyment—this is essential to create fun for the crowd and keep them dancing with unexpected delights throughout the night.
Would you describe part of what you do as connecting people outside of the more commercial mainstream?
Absolutely, and it’s through this connection that I have come to know you and many others worldwide—through our shared passion for music.
You have talked about the international mix of people in Hong Kong, does that shape or influence what you play?
Initially, it was challenging when I started DJing 15 years ago. Despite that, I’ve found that quality music transcends boundaries. Watching a diverse crowd come together on the dance floor, responding to the rhythms with smiles, confirms that the music chosen is the perfect fit for the moment.
Do you have any recommendations for people visiting the city (regarding music, food or art, etc)?
For music, I recommend Oma, Mihn, and Acadana. In terms of food, you can’t go wrong with Chinese soup, hotpot, pork chop buns, egg tarts, and the variety offered by market stalls. And for art, make sure to visit the M+ Art Museum.
How did you first get into electronic music?
It all began with band sounds, reggae, and trip-hop during my teenage years. Back then mostly only in retail shops I could find music from different countries, I spent a lot of time digging for music in CD shops like HMV and secondhand CD shops. Online electronic radio stations from Germany were a revelation for me, introducing me to new genres like minimal house and techno. Since then, my journey into electronic music has been one of continuous discovery.
Which DJ’s initially inspired you?
Margaret Dygas, Efdemin, Ed Davenport, Cesare Vs Disorder, Jay Tripwire, Eduardo De La Calle, among others, have been significant inspirations.
And in terms of producing, how did you learn about that process?
My production journey started at a local label Typhoon8 Records’ studio. Later, I set up my own studio and continued to learn from friends, online tutorials, and by gaining basic knowledge of DAWs. A huge thanks to Arturia and Native Instruments for their sponsorship and support with VST instruments, allowing me to start with great gear.
Looking into the future, how do you see the place of DJ’s in the world and how they can also make a living from playing and production?
Real DJs and producers should be recognized and booked for their talent in providing quality music and sets. Their livelihood shouldn’t hinge on social media followers but on their musical contributions. It’s essential for clubs and festivals to support them, enabling them to earn a living and continue enriching our lives with their music.
Tell me about the studio you use. Are there good facilities for people producing electronic music in Hong Kong, is there a supportive creative network in place?
My studio is in my day job office, thanks to my lovely boss for allowing me to put my equipment there. As space is limited, I have an Akai Force, KRK monitors, Minilab3, and of course Pioneer CDJs. Also, thanks to my boyfriend for the Motu M2 sound card and an A&H mixer, which have greatly improved the sound in the studio. I use Logic as my DAW, with plugins like Arturia and Native Instruments mostly.
In Hong Kong, we have a music school called Sol Passion Music, which is an excellent resource for those looking to learn production or DJing. They’re doing fantastic work here.
Outside of music, what influences and inspires you?
My lovely Mother who never stops inspires me. Outside of music, I draw inspiration from movies, well-designed furniture, holidays, and the people around me. These elements often seep into my music in one way or another, enriching my creative process.
Ocean Lam on Facebook
Ocean Lam on Instagram
Ocean Lam on Beatport
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