(by Gerry Dallas: Oxjam Regional Co-ordinator for Newcastle)
The hype surrounding drum and bass for Oxjam was well established within Newcastle, especially in the student community. Indeed, on the eve of the event, when handing out flyers, some were met with the response ‘oh yeah, everyone’s talking about this.’ This proposed a slight problem, as the chosen venue was one more fit for Hobbits, overlooking the Tyne in the upstairs of an early 19th-century pub, housing original beams and low doorways.
150 tickets were sold before the day of the event, making it a success before it had even begun. This event was tightly planned, with DJs being brought up from the Nottingham d ‘n’ b scene to play. The best of Newcastle’s DJs were also playing, who brought with them MC Vendetta. NIS kicked off the night, warming up the crowd with some heavier than expected tunes. Next up, JedRed, a showman as well as DJ, bouncing off the crowd’s lively mood. Plus8 and Stevie Bones brought the MC to the stage, with just a step and a barrier bearing the Oxjam logo separating the crowd and himself. At this point the room was packed with bodies, many of whom were in fancy dress, and all of whom were only too willing to respond with a united cheer of ‘Oxjam’ when prompted by the MC. Last to take to the decks was Hydrophonics, a DJ who is more used to supporting the likes of Andy C than playing a pub in the Northeast. JedRed made a second appearance at this point, debuting as an MC.
A large network of support meant that this night was a storming success, from friends helping on the door to a huge PA system being lent for the night. The atmosphere was friendly, rammed and inclusive, with those who perhaps thought they would never like drum ‘n’ bass dancing the night away. More than 300 people came and experienced this Oxjam event, all happy in the knowledge that they were helping a great cause whilst enjoying expert DJs and dancing amongst friends.
