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On Fire 🔥

by Editorial Team 18 February 2025
We explore the thoughts of artists and music sharing. In today's digital age, discovering new music has become more accessible than ever due to online platforms like Spotify, SoundCloud, and download services such as Beatport. While traditional methods of exploring music, such as visiting record shops, have diminished in popularity, the process of musical exploration remains significant and enriching, especially when one encounters a standout track. For performing artists, the quest for fresh music is a continuous endeavor, often regarded as equally important as the performance itself. This raises an interesting question: is it appropriate for artists to keep the details of their music sources confidential? This topic invites further discussion from some of the South West DJs and producers on the nature of music discovery in the modern landscape.
Hey folks! Ben Holtam here—aka DJ BenG—your go-to guy for all things beats, basslines, and good vibe
by Ben Holtam 10 February 2025
Hey folks! Ben Holtam here—aka DJ BenG—your go-to guy for all things beats, basslines, and good vibes in the South West. As we gear up for another epic summer, I’ve rounded up the must-hit music festivals of 2025 across Cornwall, Devon, and beyond. Whether you're an avid raver, a wellness enthusiast, or a family seeking entertainment, the South West's festival scene caters to your needs. Let’s dive in!
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AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 Controller

The brand new 4 channel DJ controller.

The AlphaTheta DDJ-GRV6 is a four-channel DJ controller designed for hobby DJs, positioned in the mid-price range. This controller comes bundled with two software options: Rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro. It features full-size jogwheels and incorporates various standout attributes that enhance its functionality within both applications. The DDJ-GRV6 presents itself as a significant upgrade over the previous model, the DDJ-FLX6, which received mixed reviews. However, it is important to note that the device only includes one microphone channel and limited pitch controls, meaning users looking for extensive external inputs may find it lacking. Overall, the DDJ-GRV6 is engineered to provide a satisfying experience for its target audience.

A poster for little south with a crowd in the background

The DDJ-GRV6, commonly referred to as “groove six,” is a DJ controller designed to resemble professional-grade equipment, despite being constructed with consumer-grade materials similar to AlphaTheta's other entry-level controllers. This results in a design that incorporates a significant amount of plastic and controls that may feel less premium.


One of the standout features of the DDJ-GRV6 is the new gloss black strip at the top, which contrasts with the matte finish on the rest of the device. This strip houses the controls for the newly integrated Groove Circuit for Rekordbox and Stems FX for Serato. Additionally, the controller features a library management panel positioned in the center, along with performance pads and buttons arranged for optimal club-like use, enhancing the overall aesthetic and functionality.


To set up the DDJ-GRV6, users need to install either Rekordbox or Serato software, then connect the controller to a computer via a USB-C cable. Audio cables and headphones can be connected for a complete setup. Upon loading the software, users must register, but there are no associated fees, as both programs are activated through the hardware.


A key feature of the DDJ-GRV6 is the Groove Circuit, which enables users to perform live remixes by substituting the drum sounds in any track with preloaded loops—organized into two banks of four. Users can also sample drum sounds from the currently playing track and store them for future use. Additional sound packs are available for download, and users can create custom ones as well.


The Groove Circuit includes an engaging “drum roll” feature, which allows for quick access to drum loops similar to traditional loop functions but specifically targeting drums, thus simplifying the remixing process.


Moreover, the controller comes equipped with a “drum release” paddle, which removes drums from the mix while applying selected effects such as vinyl breaks or echoes. This functionality mirrors features found in Serato's stems and contributes to the overall appeal of the controller.

The advancements in Rekordbox 7's library features allow users to easily access discovery tools within the software. Notably, the improved hardware preview lets DJs listen to selected tracks directly through their headphones with a simple button press, eliminating the need to load tracks manually. This is a significant enhancement compared to previous versions that required mouse interaction.


Additionally, the implementation of Sound Color effects marks a notable innovation for controllers at this level. DJs can now replace channel filters with various effects such as noise, dub echo, and jet, which are typically associated with reverb and delay effects. These sound effects are compatible with both Serato and Rekordbox, providing versatility for users.


Furthermore, the consistency of features across Serato and Rekordbox represents a shift in design philosophy from AlphaTheta. The controller ensures that most knobs, features, and functions perform equivalently in both software applications, minimizing previous issues related to mislabeling and confusing overlays that have affected dual software devices in the past.

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Written by

Editorial Team • 8 October 2024
by Editorial Team 18 February 2025
We explore the thoughts of artists and music sharing. In today's digital age, discovering new music has become more accessible than ever due to online platforms like Spotify, SoundCloud, and download services such as Beatport. While traditional methods of exploring music, such as visiting record shops, have diminished in popularity, the process of musical exploration remains significant and enriching, especially when one encounters a standout track. For performing artists, the quest for fresh music is a continuous endeavor, often regarded as equally important as the performance itself. This raises an interesting question: is it appropriate for artists to keep the details of their music sources confidential? This topic invites further discussion from some of the South West DJs and producers on the nature of music discovery in the modern landscape.
Hey folks! Ben Holtam here—aka DJ BenG—your go-to guy for all things beats, basslines, and good vibe
by Ben Holtam 10 February 2025
Hey folks! Ben Holtam here—aka DJ BenG—your go-to guy for all things beats, basslines, and good vibes in the South West. As we gear up for another epic summer, I’ve rounded up the must-hit music festivals of 2025 across Cornwall, Devon, and beyond. Whether you're an avid raver, a wellness enthusiast, or a family seeking entertainment, the South West's festival scene caters to your needs. Let’s dive in!
by Editorial Team 7 February 2025
Making her Little South debut, Sugarshaker is no stranger to the South West dance music scene having played at clubs and festivals across the region. Sugarshaker is a house, trance and techno DJ and this mix will bring a smile to your face. Expect a progressive mix with stabs of mood-lifting trance. We caught up with Sugarshaker where we learned about her DJ history and past and future residencies!
by Editorial Team 29 January 2025
The curators of the West Cornwall raves are currently preparing for their next event scheduled for May 2025. This event will take place in the fields of West Cornwall, near the village of Zennor. A lineup of DJs, including Ambassador 626 Kavos, Charlie M, Deckhead, DJ Brady, Lady Embrace, Ste Ellis, and Steve Lid, among others, will be performing. The event is a collaborative effort involving prominent dance music promotion groups such as Raw Rotation, Inception, Kernow Rave Culture, and TNT.
by Editorial Team 24 January 2025
The Paradhis Festival is a new summer event scheduled for July 4th to 6th, 2025. It will be held at Boconnoc Estate in Cornwall, providing a picturesque setting. The festival focuses on the themes of music, wellness, and nature, aiming to create an enriching experience for attendees.
by Editorial Team 24 January 2025
In episode two of our 2025 podcast mix series, we feature Reece Johnson, known for his ability to blend contemporary and classic tracks into vibrant mixes. His latest funky house mix embodies the essence of summer, showcasing an array of carefully selected songs. In the following section, Reece shares insights about his upcoming projects and what listeners can expect from him this year.
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