Liquid Todd

Liquid Todd
Urb Magazine Next 100
v.08:052002:93/VOL.12

Pinning New York-based Liquid Todd down to one style of music is difficult. "I like all these different kinds of music," says the tall, pale DJ. "For me, playing a hip-hop set is great. And I love house." Nevertheless LT's name has become synonymous with techno and especially breakbeat - particularly in the 92.3 K-Rock-FM listening area, the NYC radio station that hosts his late-night, four-hour techno show Solid State. Having celebrated its fifth birthday on April 6, Solid State has introduced thousands of listeners (including suburban swaths in Connecticut and New Jersey) to names like Orbital, Dub Pistols, Coldplay and Underworld.

But Todd's reputation wasn't just won in a poorly lit radio booth - it also comes from poorly lit clubs, where Todd spins out regularly. "You have to [play live]; playing live is the best way to find out if you suck or not," says the 10-year radio and party veteran.

Continuing his tradition of making music available to the masses, Todd released his first mix CD, Action, in 1999, focusing on the breakbeats he often spins out. February saw the release of another mix CD, Solid State. Subtler and broader than Action, Solid State showcases a new level of maturity from Todd.

In addition, Todd's reach has begun extending into producing and remixing, as he's working on tracks from such heavy hitters as Fatboy Slim and the Chemical Brothers. HIs latest remix, Groove Armada's "My Friend," adds grinding rock guitars and a powerful beat, which aren't exactly Armada's signature sounds. But then again, what else can you expect from a man who plays techno on a rock & roll station? --Luciana Lopez (URB 93 | page 79 | MAY '02)