Music / Clubs
Interview: Parallel Dimensions
If you’re walking round Stokes Croft over the next few weeks, don’t be surprised to see people dancing on rooftops. The person responsible is Parallel Dimensions promoter Laila McKenzie, whose passion for house music’s founding principles is infectious.
“When I came to Bristol I noticed nights were very segregated”, she says.“To me dance music is supposed to bring people together, regardless of colour, creed, class, age, gender or sexual orientation. We’re very big on that up north, and that’s what I’ve tried to bring down here. Our ethos is celebrate, educate.”
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Although it started in May 2014, Parallel Dimensions went into overdrive when Laila (pictured top, with Deli G) relocated from Sheffield in January. Guests have included A Guy Called Gerald and 808 State, both titans of UK dance music’s first wave.“I wanted to make people aware of people that have pushed this music and made it what it is today,” explains Laila, who says her dream booking would be Carl Cox.
“I always try not to forget local and upcoming talent too, “ she says, “and that mixed with our decor and performance is I think what sets us aside from the others.”
This month Parallel Dimensions returns to the roof terrace at Blue Mountain, the scene of an unforgettable party last July. “The weather was great that day so let’s hope it is again”, says Laila. “The crowd we had was amazing and I love the Blue Mountain rooftop. It’s such a great space and Donald, the owner, is the best.”
Last year’s went so well that there are three rooftop sessions planned for this summer, with “flamingos, palm trees, grass skirts, Hawaiian shirts, cocktails and beach balls,” as well as a distinct musical theme for each one. The parties will be intimate affairs with 100% local lineups. “I think a lot of people in Bristol are fed up of in-your-face nights in massive venues,” says Laila. “Things are really going back to basics.”
There’s techno, tech-house and acid on August 8 with an all-hardware live show from Jack Treacle (Werk) and support from Fat Spanner, Daniel Wilson and “amazing…so versatile” resident POV (pictured above). After that, August 22 brings soulful house, disco and boogie with Deli G, Tommy Popcorn and Joe Garman, while the final instalment (September 12) features club classics from Daddy Long Legs, Stu Wilkinson and DJ Ted.
Club Tropicana All Day Rooftop Parties are at Blue Mountain on August 8, August 22 and September 12. For more information visit www.facebook.com/pdnights.