Mikey Lion interviews Damian Lazarus on the world's best parties and rave omens

Mikey: You've been running labels for two decades. We've only been doing it for two years! What are some lessons you can impart? What goes into your thought process when signing new artists to Crosstown or Rebellion? Is it all about the music or does the vibe of the artist play a role in your decision?

Damian: It’s super important for me to have a close connection with the artists I work closely with. Yes, the music has to be on another level of genius, but the people behind it must have love in their hearts and a strong personality. There is no kudos or enjoyment in releasing music from someone that maybe doesn’t deserve it or you cant find a way to connect with. I like to think, like ex-girlfriends, I am still close with almost everyone I've ever worked with.

Mikey: The first time I discovered my partner, Lee Reynolds, I walked into his party and he was playing my favorite song at the time, 'Vampire Nightclub' by Art Department. That interaction set the course which the entire Desert Hearts movement grew from. Do you believe in good omens? And if so what was the last one that you followed?

Damian: That’s a cool story! I like to think we are surrounded by signs at all times, you just need to have all your receptors open to understanding they exist. Like the person that bravely comes up to you and announces they are a new producer or DJ and says all the right things and you have a feeling that they are right and you take them on they go on to be a huge success, or the stars aligned one night and the moon sending you energy and that gives you the motivation and the confidence to create a new experience that people will cherish forever. It’s all in the stars my friend, it’s all in the stars. See you at Halloween mate, and thank you!

[Photos: Beth Marsh, Haley Busch, Here & Now, Jess Bernstein]