Techno music has become an international phenomenon and culture, a constantly evolving artform that continues to spawn new sub-genres, styles and sounds. But its clear that this music would not be what it is today if not for the efforts of key individuals, including Detroit’s legendary innovator Derrick May. One of the driving forces behind the Motor City’s techno explosio inte late 80s and early 90s, May continues to be one of the music’s leading ambassadors and tastemakers, and a relentless DJ on decks. He’ll be making his return to Basic NYC after an extended absence on Saturday, December 11, and is ready to rock the Sullivan Room once again with his uncompromising fusion of cutting edge music. Adding to the festivities will be a special B-Day bash for Sullivan Room’s Sergei Skilarenko, so we’re anticipating a charged-up night of music and celebrations.

Some DJs see themselves as entertainers. But Derrick May fashions himself as a combatant, ready to do battle with the clubbers. “The audience is my enemy. My job is to destroy them,” he said in a recent interview. “That’s the way I approach any gig. I want to hurt you.  I want you on your knees. That’s my approach.” It’s evident in his unique DJing style as well. May is a flurry of activity and energy behind the turntables, furiously tweaking EQ knobs, dropping new records into the mix and then quickly tossing them aside. Forget smooth and polished: Derrick May takes chances on the decks, mixing in new tunes with timeless classics and forgotten gems from across all genres of music.

Derrick May cemented his legacy with a string of now-legendary releases in the late 80s – “Nude Photo” and “Strings of Life” among the most acclaimed. His Transmat label quickly became known as one of the beacons for the new sounds that came from Detroit, and along with his fellow “Belleville Three” members Kevin Saunderson and Juan Atkins, May entered the international DJ scene. In many ways, he hasn’t looked back since, as he continues a relentless touring schedule that takes him across Europe, Asia and Australia almost every weekend.

This will be May’s third Basic NYC appearance at Sullivan Room, and his first since 2008. Joining him on the decks will be Basic NYC’s residents Sleepy & Boo, who have presented a tremendous 2010 at Sullivan Room. Newcomers Dimitri.S opens up, with producer, DJ and designer Mitch Wells getting the party started. We’re very excited for this return visit from one of electronic music’s all-time pioneers.

KGB & Basic NYC Presents Derrick May – Sat. December 11th, 2010
Sullivan Room – 218 Sullivan St. Btwn Bleecker & West 3rd Streets

For guestlist: email rsvp@basicnyc.com
Presale tickets at http://www.wantickets.com/basicnyc