I remember when I used to go to the Phillips Backyard Weekender and see a few people I know. And by 2018 it's grown into one of the crown-jewels of Victoria's rich musical summer, a place where I am bound to see countless familiar places, while – and this part is of the utmost importance – we get down with a full-slate of fantastically chosen music. With the return of the Pinic-er Stage featuring a lineup boasting some of Vancouver Island and Vancouver's freshest talents, as well as a full slate of afterparties each night, the good folks behind The Weekender, Atomique Productions, have doubled down on making this one of Vic City's best dance parties this year. The main stage at the Weekender is absolutely dripping with groove and that's where we're going to be focusing our attentions here. It doesn't matter which stage you're spending your time, if you're paying attention you're going to see some great music. And while I'd like to recommend everything here, that would be ridiculous. But if you pay particular attention when I tell you to, you're probably going to have a helluva time – bolstered by your own, wonderful decisions as well.

It all starts right off the bat as music opens with the mighty GROSSBUSTER. Both one of Victoria's finest beatmakers and owners of one of the city's most immaculate beards (A true feat considering how many people in this place make beats and/or have beards), Grossbuster has impressed me every time I've caught one of his sets over the last half decade. Even, hell especially, when he comes out with a set comprised of stuff you've never heard him play, seemingly out of nowhere. With an endless arsenal and roots in hip-hop (Just like I like), you can rest pretty assured that his set is going to be the perfect way to start your weekend. So, don't be a pylon and make sure to get down to site early.

If you've spent any time hitting shows around my hometown of Victoria, you've probably experienced the party-rocking power of the good homey, DJ Murge. One of the founding members of local legends the Stir-Fry Collective (RIP) and a Red Bull 3style Battle Champion, Murge has established chops as one of the best selectors and mixers around. I was supposed to hook up with him for a little Q&A a few weeks ago at the Tall Tree Music Festival, where he kicked ass (He even played Prince’s “Kiss.” Any DJ who gives me a chance to dance to Prince is a winner in my book.). But it was a festival and as is my usual outcome at such events, I missed him. But we live in the same city and he’s a rad dude, totally cool with my blowing it! I’m pumped we managed to do this, even late, because he’s a huge music-nerd, to the heart, just like me. UNITE!

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1. Do you remember the first album you bought with you own money?

This is awesome. I was with my dad when I bought it and I was pretty young, it was Michael Jackson Thriller on vinyl. I remember I played it and played it and played it. Well, actually my dad played it because he wouldn’t let me touch his stereo. <laughs>

I suppose it’s kind of redundant to ask if you still listen to it. I mean, it’s Thriller.

I still have it and still listen to it. I don’t know if I still have that original copy but I have a few copies kicking around the studio for sure. Lately my favourite track has been “Human Nature.” For some reason in the past few years that song has really rung true. I’ve had the opportunity to play it a few different chill sets and it’s working. Mos Def was at Montreaux Jazz Festival or something and he did a live version with his band that was super cool too. The other jams are still the jams – “Pretty Young Thing,” “Beat It,” “Billie Jean,” “Thriller” – but “Human Nature” as of late.

#festivalseason - The Phillips Backyard Weekender rides once again, groovier than ever.

5 Questions with Rags #20 - DJ Murge