​Jackmaster: “Without grassroots venues and clubs the scene is finished”

Intimate grassroots venues have always been the lifeblood of the clubbing community and Scotland’s favorite homegrown talent Jackmaster is one to never let us forget it.

In recent years a number of underground clubs have been forced to close down. In London alone, influential venues like Cable and Plastic People have been forced out. And in Glasgow as well, The Arches closed its doors for the last time. At least fabric, which faced closure last year, was able to reopen and is thankfully running as strong as ever.

In a recent interview with NME, Jackmaster touched on his connection to these types of venues: “Without grassroots venues and clubs the scene is finished. They’re the lifeblood of what we do. If it wasn’t for the Sub Club in Glasgow for example I probably wouldn’t be doing this. I’ve been going there since I was 14. “

The early introduction to dance music culture seemed to play a critical role in the development of Jackmaster's passion for the scene. He also interned at his local record show in Glasgow, Rubadub, which helped him gain crucial knowledge.

Of course, when asked about his favorite venues to play, Jackmaster highlights his home turf: “Anyone who’s been to The Subby knows how special it is. It’s hard to put your finger on why. Is it the Glaswegian crowd? The amazing sound system? The low ceiling? Probably a mixture of all plus something you just can’t quite put your finger on.”

Read about why Mixmag says Glasgow’s Sub Club is one of the best rave experiences on the planet.