In issue 126, I looked at the basics of mastering the mix. Moving from playing tunes consecutively to introducing mixing techniques that can help elevate your set to something more seamless. As the editor of Pro Mobile, I get to watch a lot of DJs and am often moved by the skill I see.

At one recent party, a young lady whose day job is working as a lawyer blew me away with how many different techniques and transitions she applied in one set. She reminded me a bit of Louis Smyth in his early days.

The modern art of DJing has evolved far beyond simply playing tracks consecutively. Today's most successful DJs are sonic architects, crafting immersive experiences through intricate mixing, creative transitions, and the skilful use of effects.

If you’ve ever seen Louis in action, you’ll know what I mean. This article is about moving beyond the basics, and I’ve re-capped at the end with your starting point, should you need it.

I. Mastering the Mix: Beyond Basic Beatmatching

While beatmatching is the foundation of smooth transitions, advanced mixing goes deeper. It's about understanding the nuances of track structure, key, and energy to create seamless blends that enhance the musical flow.

Harmonic Mixing: When you hear a megamix by an established DJ and know that he or she has absolutely nailed it, this is the key mixing technique that will have made it sound so very good. Matching tracks in compatible keys prevents clashes and creates a more cohesive sound. Explore key detection software (like Mixed in Key or Serato DJ's key analysis) and learn the circle of fifths to unlock harmonic mixing possibilities. For example, in a house set, transitioning from ‘Sweet Dreams’ by Klaas (C minor) to ‘Your Love’ by Frankie Knuckles (G minor) should create a pleasing harmonic blend. Remember, key detection software isn't always perfect, so trust your ears!

Phrase mixing involves the art of aligning the musical phrases – those structured sections of 8, 16, or 32 bars – between two tracks to achieve smoother, more intentional transitions and create opportunities for intricate layering. By training your ear to identify these rhythmic and harmonic building blocks, you can time your mixes with precision. For instance, in a house set, you might seamlessly transition from the vocal buildup section of ‘Finally’ by CeCe Peniston into the powerful four-on-the-floor drop of ‘Where Love Lives (Come On In)’ by Alison Limerick, ensuring the phrases align perfectly for a natural and impactful blend.

Energy matching: When DJing, it's crucial to manage the energy flow. A drop in energy can create a moment of dynamic contrast, giving the audience a break before building back up, while sustained energy keeps the dancefloor packed. You could, for instance, transition from a high-octane UK house track with a driving 4/4 beat to a more swung, 2-step influenced tune like ‘Flowers’ by Sweet Female Attitude, introducing a garage flavour and a slight energy shift, before bringing the intensity back up with a classic house track.

II. Creative Transitions: Beyond the Basic Crossfade

Transitions are the glue that holds a DJ set together. Moving beyond simple crossfades opens up a world of creative possibilities.

Quick Cuts and Jumps: These techniques create dramatic breaks and...


To read the full article, you’ll need to have a physical copy of the magazine which you can sign up for here for 6 issues delivered to your door from just £16!

https://store.promobile.online/products/pro-mobile-magazine-6-issue-1-year-subscription

You’ll also get full access to this article and the last year of articles, reviews and play lists via the Pro DJ App