Cue Points: Dr Banana

This is Cue Points, a series where DJs get granular with current tracks in their sets, giving us the low-down on what makes them work. 

Shape-shifting selector, producer and label boss Dr Banana has built a reputation as one of UK dance music’s most versatile talents. His high-energy sets connect eras, blending the sounds of UKG, electro, techno, minimal, disco and more, and have taken him from playing to crowds at free forest parties to Panorama Bar and Glastonbury.

With a summer of European shows on the horizon, here Dr Banana selects five tracks that have been mainstays in his eclectic and unpredictable sets. 

Jay Tripwire – Killah (Jays Broken Nu Step Original)

I’ve been using this is lovely trippy Jay Tripwire record as a bit of a palate cleanser to rejig the vibe at the start of a set. It’s got a lovely meandering floatiness about it which neutralises the energy on the dance floor and gives me space to start to take things in my own direction.

Rude Boy – Restless

Guaranteed party starting dance floor filler. A peak time bomb that’s been in and out of my bag for years and seems to work all around the world. Driving percussion, punchy bass line, with a nice vocal hook alongside and some quirky quirks. What’s not to love?

Paul Johnson – Freaks in Front

A certified groove bomb from one of the best to ever do it. I’ve always played a good amount of Paul Johnson (rest in peace) across his various moods, but this one has always stuck out. It gets the dance floor moving a bit differently and works at any point of the night.

O’FortyFour – Ambulancia

I generally keep things upbeat and positive with my selections, but when I want to take a dip into the dark side this is one I draw for. Twisted rolling beats, sharp kicks and trippy sounds straight out of Kyiv. Always gets a good reaction and sends the dancers on a journey.

Natebytheway – Stickstonesteady

I’ve been spinning this one either as a closer or to wind down the energy towards the end of the night. The keys and vocals create a lovely emotive moment when it’s deployed at the right time at the right party.