French house and techno don Shonky shares tracks by some of his biggest influences, along with a track from his new album, for Beatport’s Playlist of the Week.
I’m honored to take part in Beatport’s Playlist of the Week. This chart is the opportunity for me to show you a bit more of my roots and where I’m coming from musically. I have chosen many producers and labels that have greatly influenced my career. I enjoy music in general, which means a lot of different styles from house to techno, and I hope this selection will help you understand what I like to listen to and play. I would also love to share with you my new album, On The Run, released this month on the label Third Ear Recordings.
Blake Baxter – One More Time [Tresor Records]
Amazing track from the Prince of Techno, as his peers named him. This one was just repressed on this Tresor Compilation celebrating the 30 years of this legendary club. It’s sexy and groovy with a great vocal from the man himself.
Gherkin Jerks – Blast Off [Alleviated Records]
One of many aliases of Larry Heard. It would be impossible not to name him as a big influence for me. I was lucky to have him remixing one of my tracks, “Le Velour,” a few years back on Real Tone.
Shonky – Kombattant [Third Ear Recordings]
This is the first track I made for my new album. It’s definitely more minimal than the rest of the tracks and also the only track on which I used samples. I’ve played it a lot and am happy to have it on my LP.
Zenker Brothers – Studio [Ilian Tape]
Those bros are a great combo together. There is always a timeless touch in what they do. I have been playing this one for many years and plenty of their music. The label Ilian Tape that they run is also full of great stuff.
Sound Virus – Inverted Frequencies (Eerie Horn Mix) [Mint Condition Records]
This is also a repress. My partner Dyed Soundorom was the one who helped me discover this jam. I love sharing music with him. I trust his opinion and tastes big time, and once again, I’m thankful he gave me this one.
Population One – Computer Rights [Harbour City Sorrow]
One alias of Terrence Dixon, who is, in my opinion, one the best cats around. I buy everything he is doing blindly. It’s freaky, groovy and so fun to play. I’d love seeing him playing live.
Matthew Dear – Towal.oxeanwav [Telegraph]
Telegraph, the legendary French label, released a compilation last year with many great producers. I have played this one a lot.
Jovonn – Random [Nu Groove Records]
Probably the most influential label for me. They have been releasing great music for more than 30 years and still do. This one is from the king Jovonn. Perfect for the peak time. House vibe all the way.
Robert Hood – Who Taught You Math? [Peacefrog Records]
Hard to pick one from Robert Hood, but this one has a special meaning to me. I have been a fan for many years. One day I decided to make a remix of it for myself. I asked my friend Judy from Fabric if she could put me in contact with Robert Hood’s management. I sent them the remix, Robert liked it, and I was allowed to release it on Freak ‘n’ Chic in 2009.
Todd Terry – Don’t You Want Some More [Freeze Records]
It’s funny, but I discovered this one just last year, but it was already out for so many years. A super housy track from another house hero.
Shonky’s latest album On The Run is out now via Third Ear Recordings. Check it out on Beatport.
