D'Julz launches Bass Culture 
D'Julz will launch his very own imprint, Bass Culture, later this year.
Julien Veniel has made a name for himself over the years as a top-flight DJ, garnering residencies at renowned venues such as Paris' Rex. His spinning career has been augmented by an equally as celebrated production resume, which includes releases on 20:20 Vision, Ovum, Dessous and many more. This fall, Veniel will have yet another feather for his cap with the launch of Bass Culture, his own label. The first release comes courtesy of Greek producer Lemos, and it's already been caned by several high-profile jocks, including Sebo K, who named it his tune of the summer. We caught up with D'Julz to learn more about the new imprint.
Why are you calling the label Bass Culture?
The label is named after the parties that I have been promoting at the Rex Club since 1997. The name initially came from the title of a Linton Kwesi Johnson album. I chose it because dub music has always been a big influence on the way I approach house and techno.
After so many years in the biz, why Bass Culture now?
I feel it is the right time in my personal life and career to try something new. I have always preferred to focus on one thing at a time; first it was my DJ'ing, then my producing and now it's finally time for me to start a label. In addition, I also knew that I wouldn't be able to do this on my own, without it taking too much time and energy from my other activities. Therefore I was waiting until I found the right partners. The opportunity arrived a few months ago, so I began to ask some of my favourite producers to send me some unsigned material. The music I received was way beyond anything I had hoped for, and it finally convinced me that this was the right moment to do it.
What are you doing—if anything—to stand out from the pack label-wise on an extra-musical basis? Any special editions, vinyl-only releases on the horizon?
I will be designing a Bass Culture Coke bottle and launching a Bass Culture Nike shoe. Oh wait...that's been done! Seriously, I don't really have any big marketing plan beside the standard vinyl and digital releases, with occasional "exclusive" versions. I'd rather focus on the music and hopefully the musical identity of the label will speak for itself.
RA: Resident Advisor - the dance & electronic music magazine 
