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Orchard Lounge is a collective of DJs that formed in Chicago around 2000. The trio of Ben Silver, Spencer Lokken, and Bethany Lokken, focus on performing for the more discerning of dance floors, and are commonly known to appeal to open-minded and diverse audiences. They've never let their passion for the beat confine them to a single genre, as their sets may include anything from laid back downtempo/IDM to hypnotic tech house and b-boy era electro. Don't be surprised if you hear an entire night of music dedicated to the sounds that have heavily influenced them as DJs either: they all share an affinity for classic hip hop, rock, funk, and soul, as well. This is the reasoning behind "OL: From the Dance Floor to the Couch". It's the appropriate defining phrase for the group because of their innate programming and record selection skills, as well as their talents in creating an experience for most any state of mind or environment. Some may label this as being versatile, however the three simply consider themselves serious music lovers with similar, albeit eclectic, interests. At the very core, they're highly enthusiastic individuals full of praise for the producers whose names appear on their records. To that end, they've always fully understood their role as middle(wo)man, and if they are to accept the coveted role of tastemaker, they want it to soley benefit the artists whom they all admire.
Orchard Lounge currently holds down a number of Chicago residencies at spots like Lava Lounge, Funky Buddha Lounge, and Moonshine. They've also been making their mark in Milwaukee with a highly popular new monthly residency at Room 434 called Altruistic. They are consistently looking for new opportunities to play records for those who appreciate music that may be a bit off the beaten path, and are always open to new ideas that will break down barriers of dance music. Recently, the three have been playing alongside like-minded bands such as the hugely talented, Future Rock, where OL will segue into the band's live instrumentation, and vice-versa. This creates a unique experience for concertgoers, and maintains a general flow throughout the evening, essentially abolishing the idea of a typical show's "set break". These types of events set Orchard Lounge apart from other DJs and collectives, and allow for a wider range of bookings in both nightclubs and live music venues. Never ones to sing high praise of club culture, the trio couldn't be happier with the opportunities that have arisen because of this uncommon trait.
It looks as if 2007 is going to be a momentous year for Orchard Lounge. They've never been more hungry to spread their brand of DJing to the world, and they're all eager to explore untouched new territory. They're scheduled to make frequent trips out of state, have recently delved into the world of production, founded a side project called Style Matters, which appeals to people throwing higher end events, have been invited to be a part of massive music festivals, and are involved in a plethora of big name shows around the Midwest. Please check back often, as the events schedule and flyers are constantly being updated.
See you on the dance floor. Or the couch.
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Bethany Lokken @ the Social, Milwaukee, 7/21/07:
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Ben Silver @ the Social, Milwaukee, 7/21/07:
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Spencer Lokken @ the Social, Milwaukee, 7/21/07:
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For more videos and much more music, please check out Ben's popular audio blog at: SILVERS BOOGALOO . Black myspace layout
