Marc Reck

This page is basically a collection of the feedback and press from other people about the djing gigs and the collective efforts of the events i’m involved with.

I find these sort of things important to back whether someone can deliver or not, so i guess this page is to back up the rest of the site content. As a lot of feedback comes via various methods, this page is just a way of collating it all in one place.

If you want to read any of the press cuttings, click on them to visit the readable version, and if you have anything you want to say, feel free to comment on a blog post, or get in touch via email

The Night Times & Mr Elephant Presents :

“Celebrate Birmingham’s Underground”

(Saturday 20th September, 5pm till 5am @ Rainbow Warehouse & Beach)

It’s all in the Mix (As published in Night Times October 2008)

Magnetic, Evolve, Trigger, Breakthru, Osmosis, Drop Beats Not Bombs, Jam Jah, Mr Elephant, House of God, Custom Made, My Bass, Broken Minds, the list goes on…

It reads like an elaborate and complex cocktail of contrasting ingredients that bears the danger of becoming explosive, much like the often schizophrenic face of the Birmingham underground. However, like the coffee of Kahlúa that binds the unexpected combination of vodka and milk in a White Russian, the mash up of genres slipped down wonderfully thanks to the open mindedness of the spectators: the key ingredient so core to the prevalence of the Birmingham underground scene.

Attracting such a crowd, as disparate as its line-up, the plethora of different backgrounds the night drew on was reflected in everything, from the faces at the bar to the moves on the dance floor: a spectrum of styles, but consistent smiles. The smooth production of the event also lies in the contributing organisations that themselves embrace a wide range of styles. Custom Made, Drop Beats Not Bombs, and of course, Mr Elephant are no stranger to exhibiting genres such as samba, break-beat, ska and hip-hop on the same stage.

Aside from the eclectic range of DJ’s which kept the herd dancing, there were some amusing quirks which got the crowd involved too, such as a selection of craft stalls, a truly bizarre poodle making competition and hilarious performance art from map-bearing characters known as The Tourists, who could be seen roving around the dance floor asking for directions to their hotel, picnicking on the beach, and commenting on the friendliness of the locals.

Once again, club favourite and skilled beat-boxer, Bass6, was in control of the mic, filling gaps with banter, beat breath and being an all-round brilliant host of the beach party, which it must be said, was certainly the epicentre of the joyous occasion, leaving the Night Times’ hosted Rainbow Warehouse a little under-populated at times.

R-Caine stole the show, however, with a flawless B2B appearance with fellow Drop Beats Not Bombs representative, Boogie Dave; never letting the beat become monotonous, sustaining the audience’s energy with quality break after quality break, and never a sloppy drop.

There aren’t many raves that offer the chance to make sand castles with tourists, get your fingers messy making masks, witness a hand-made poodle parade, try a selection of organic curries, buy clothes (I purchased a fantastic purple shirt which I am sure to don at the next elephantine event), and learn how to turn an old juice carton into a functioning wallet, all in one night.

For the parties of birthday boys and girls present, a member of which told me they “didn’t usually go out to these sort of things”, it must have been the most wonderful fiesta to walk in on, and I am glad they didn’t miss it. Even better was hearing from those involved in the curation of the event, for whom there is usually little time to frolic, that they too had enjoyed themselves. Last Saturday, Mr Elephant and The Night Times were without doubt hosting the best party the second city could offer.

As the 5 O’clock finish line got closer and closer, co-curator Marc Reck stepped up to the decks to provide a perfect concluding set, bringing the curtain to a close with the sublime lyrics “daylight come and we wanna go home” echoing around the venue. An idyllic outro, if not somewhat ironic, as it was clear that no one was yet ready to become bed bound. The rare pleasure of an encore at the end of the night is a true testament to the success of the celebration, and we will certainly be asking for more where that came from.

Dominik Kai Brotherton

Blog post by Tony Coleman (The Lab) on Project X Presents Digital Distopia

With the new year rolling over me and the new site (this one), I have decided to put together a mishmash of thoughts on the various gigs and events that I’ve had the good fortune to be part of.  With this in mind, I’m going to start by setting the ‘ole way back when machine to 2008, more specifically on September the 13th at BUSC in Birmingham.  Firstly I’d like to thank Leon (VJ Chromatouch) for inviting me into the fold so to speak.  The enegy and enthusiasm of the entire projectXpresents team is quite simply infectious.  I can honestly say I’ve never had the good fortune to work in such close proximity with so many creative party animals!

My individual part of the event was threefold, firstly I’m pleased to say that my first visual installation went relatively well even though work commitments throughout the setup days kept me away from the venue until twenty minutes to opening and by that time I’m sure there were a few stressed individuals.  If I didn’t get the oppertunity to say it at the time, then sorry for the white hair folks.  Won’t happen again honest.  Anyway, I digress.  Once you were ushered into our digital dystopia and you navigated your way through the maze, you may have been lept upon by either myself or one of my robotic minions (an absolutly superb job from Pyn Stockman (masks), Joolz Hyland (makeup)) and thrust in front of a neurotic big brother and sister.

The reactions varied with each visitor, but we had a majority of them dancing and jumping around at their command (there is no audio with the video clip).  The final stop motion animation was then played back near the end of the event through theLAB’s VJ set, where many of the big brother / sister participants noticed themselves and their friends on the screen in the mix.  I personally would like to apologise to one visitor to big brother and sister who really didn’t like the noise or the effect they were having on her.  Sorry, I hope it didn’t affect your enjoyment of the evening.

Third and finally though, I participated alongside the robitic minions throughout the event in assisting in the kidnap and subsequent dragging og hapless dancers, clearing space and eventually I got the chance to dance my arse off (if dance is the correct word here).  Either way, as the night drew on the number unfortunately begun to dwindle leaving a decent sized crowed of happy, sweaty clubbers all high on one of the most infectious, and thouroughly unique events I have had the good fortune to be part of.  Marc Reck played an absolute blinding set, and as the evening drew to a close I realised just how much everyone involved gave 100%.

So with these ramblings well and truely over, I’d like to thank the following people (in no particular order) for allowing theLAB to participate in projectXpresents.

Leon Trimble (for invite, VJ co-ordination and not shouting at me), Paul Kent (for the realisation of a silly comment), Marc Reck (for keeping everyone dancing), Rich Batsford (for projectX and motivation), Pyn Stockman (for masks and robotics), Joolz Hyland (for makeup), Dave Checkley (for laser based inspiration), Rich Hubbard (inspiration) and everyone else who put so much time and effort into the event.  I know this is a tiny list of names but head to www.projectxpresents.com for the lowdown.

Peace.

“a golden ticket … it certainly has a transcendental quality …
supremely smooth in its execution … a genuinely beautiful
experience.  As a member of the audience, you feel like a neuron in a
collective brain.  Project X is the world wide web of synapses that
connect these creative energies.  A dreamlike state of mind is induced
by the experience of being at Project X … you stand back and realise
the truly awesome degree of effort and meticulous preparation that
goes into such a production.”
Whats On In Brum

“Imagine you are on acid at the Science Museum but you’re inside a
club, with a circus, a cool DJ and some crazy contemporary dancers.
This is sort of what Project X is like, but maybe a bit less bizarre.
Is it a club?  is it a play?  Is it a light show?  Who knows?  Who
cares?  Its bloody clever.”
Notion Magazine

“dazzling, varied and yet cohesive.”
Culture Deluxe

“a unique gathering of musicians and performers spread across three
stages, where words and music seamlessly flow into each other.”
The Metro

“It’s an extremely coordinated show,’ explains Reginald D Hunter with
clear enthusiasm. ‘Lights come up on one stage, someone comes on and
does their act, then that light comes down and a light comes up on
another stage.  It’s a real cool, mellow, interesting event.”
The Metro

“bringing together a multitude of art forms for a sensory overload ..
part of a laudable attempt to develop audiences and partnerships both
within Birmingham and also nationally, with a creative ethos at its
heart.”
Birmingham Post

“Digital Dystopia, sees the audience surrounded by three stages and
confronted by a mixture of music, live visuals and spoken word
painstakingly pieced together by the ensemble”
www.channel4.com/4talent

Richard Batsford (Metro) – 2006

“One of the things you notice about Marc is his infectious joy in playing great tunes. Bouncing around behind the decks, completely at home and willing the crowd on, he is so obviously loving being there that you can’t help but love it too. Always inclusive with an open, warm, cheeky and genuine smile, you instantly know his love for the music and want to join him celebrating life, dancing and quality breaks”

Rob Horrocks – Press Release 2005

“Marc Reck, a prominent breaks DJ and promoter has been confirmed to appear as part of performance event “Like Fxck”. Marc is no stranger to overwhelming reactions from the dance floor through a substantial history of appearances and collaborations at Birmingham clubs including Inter-course, Drop Beats Not Bombs and his current residency at Rockfall. His enthusiasm for embracing the latest technology whilst collaborating with live musicians will make his contribution to Like Fxck a fitting celebratory end to an evening that has been conceived as a new approach to the live entertainment format”

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Feedback & Press Quotes on Project 3 (X-Lab

Well marc just thought I would e-mail and say what a great event! Had a great dance to your music, enjoyed the arty stuff and thought the feel to the night was really nice and friendly! – Tony Stephens (Artist/Lecturer)

Press Quotes on Project X 2

“Project X has taken this notion one stage further for their “omnimedia experience” as part of the Gigbeth Music Festival … a great roster of acts” The Guardian “ever experimental” The Metro

With a disturbing, lurching assault upon the senses, ‘Project X’ is an intelligent and unique show destabilising the established role of the ’spectator’ in performance theatre and drawing you in to an impressively eclectic and complex mix of art forms. – Birmingham Post

Yet another reason to bang the drum for the great music in our city. Enormous, generous and involved musicianship that jumped boundaries effortlessly. Imaginative, playful multimedia presentation. Well thought out, seamless transitions.” Radio To Go

“A phenomenally ambitious project encapsulating some element of everything entertaining you could possibly imagine … eclectic doesn’t quite cut it, neither does the fact that this will probably be one of the most surreal and exciting things to go and see anywhere in the country … Unique, ingenious and exciting.” Bearded Magazine

“Loose knit team of extraordinarily creative multi-media guys who work under the title of Project X Presents … they’ve done one event so far which turned out to be extraordinarily successful – a huge labour of love – very involving, very engaging and they’re planning another one” Robin Valk, Radio to Go

This is one for people who like to get something new out of a night out as well as enjoying what they love.” www.blaggerzguide.co.uk

“I would recommend, in fact I would urge that you visit the Project X Presents site to find our more about what they’re doing because it really does take a lot of explaining, but it also deserves a lot of support.”

“Hugely interesting .. a multi-media deal which takes a lot of organisation.”

It really is a big deal and its really worth following”

“Arguably the most diverse music show around … features music from almost every genre. The show itself develops the usual format for gigs and is staged more like a theatrical show.” Solihull News

“Venue owner kent Davis said: “From this creative cauldron the city’s mega-talented, but dispersed artists will create new hybrids which will be the envy of every metropolis”. Solihull Times

Birmingham Post – November 2007

Stefan Kucharczyk finds clowns, cheerleaders and some cutting-edge music at the Gigbeth festival.

Searching for something ominously titled ‘Project X’ in a warehouse venue in the dark depths of Digbeth on Saturday night, something clearly isn’t right. This pinnacle performance, crowning the Gigbeth weekend, Birmingham’s flagship local music and arts festival, promises a ‘diverse, never-to-be-repeated spectacular’.

But, again, something definitely isn’t quite right.

Is it that demonic clown blowing bubbles into the entrance courtyard? Is it the semi-deranged Bacchic priestesses swirling around us with incense, laurel wreaths and cackling madly as they pour salt on to the floor out of their Wellington boots?

A stroke of genius or pretentious nonsense? The brainchild of Birmingham artist Rich Batsford and drawing together performance theatre, film, dance, comedy, music and a pinch of madness, ‘Project X’ at the Rainbow Warehouse embodies all the elements and attitudes that have made the Gigbeth festival such a cult success.

Breathing life into one of Birmingham’s less salubrious quarters and squeezing the Midlands’ most promising artists into one weekend, Gigbeth puts the family fun firmly to one side and embraces the darker side of the region’s cutting edge, artistic talent.

Anyway, let’s get back to that clown. ‘Project X’ is one continual circus, seamlessly drifting from one experience to the next. With acoustic jam sessions, Islamic drumming from Aashiq al-Rasul and a hilarious dose of vinegar from some of the city’s poets, the Bacchae mingle and the audience warms up to this most unconventional show.

As ambient music plays and autumnal leaves slowly cover the floor, an impressive capoeira display sets a steady beat and strange, shady characters dart through the warehouse theatre’s shadowy background. Building to a frenzied climax, seemingly innocuous spectators suddenly spring to life as part of the performance working to confuse and disorientate. That clown is back. This time he’s chasing a cheerleader who might also be a cat. Weird.

With a disturbing, lurching assault upon the senses, ‘Project X’ is an intelligent and unique show destabilising the established role of the ’spectator’ in performance theatre and drawing you in to an impressively eclectic and complex mix of art forms.

——————————

Guardian Preview/Listing

Project X – Birmingham -

Say what you like about the smoking ban, but it’s really allowed clubs to find their true natural smell, even if it is an overwhelming combination of Domestos and drying paint. Project X has taken this notion one stage further for their “omnimedia experience” as part of the Gigbeth Music Festival. They’re touting “aroma” amongst the list of sensual attractions alongside DJs, physical theatre, comedy, film and acrobatics. Quite how a pong fits into a six-hour theatrical narrative based around the life of American mythology professor Joseph Campbell remains enticingly vague, although there’s a great roster of acts to help clarify things. Sounds come from breakbeat DJ Marc Reck, there are live sets from punk/indie/ska band Dexter and Qawwali style masters Aashiq Al Rasul, plus top stand-up from Reginald D Hunter. – John Mitchell

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Joanna Geary

For anyone who didn’t attend Project X Presents at the Rainbow Warehouse, well… I’m sorry, but you really missed out.

It was part of the feast of events on offer as part of Gigbeth and I don’t think I’ve been to anything quite like it before. It mixed so many styles and performances and in a way that just worked really well.

In fact, the night summed up what Birmingham is capable of when it pulls its cultures and its talent together. It’s something we need to do much more of and it’s great to see people in the city trying to make it happen.

Here’s looking forward to the next performance!

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Robin Valk

Yet another reason to bang the drum for the great music in our city. Enormous, generous and involved musicianship that jumped boundaries effortlessly. Imaginative, playful multimedia presentation. Well thought out, seamless transitions. A vibe that took me back 40 years (didn’t smell any patchouli or dope, though), bolstered with 21st Century commitment and technology. Project X, I salute you all. You didn’t go? Don’t say you weren’t warned.

More reviews and photographs here

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Press Quotes on Project X – 1

Project X’s event makes most nights out look as adventurous as a trip to the Post Office” The Metro

“Eighteen months in the planning, the night presents five hours of seamless entertainment, with performances crossing over and merging in a multi-sensory assault.” Whats On.

“The Like Fxck event and the Project X Presents collective are an unique proposition, who in an age of standardised cultural product seek to help their audience attain a once in a life time experience by whatever means necessary.” BBC.co.uk

“An eclectic mix of performances .. ranging from classical and rock music to digital art, theatre and stand up. Those with long enough memories may detect the revived spirit of a 1960’s Happening”. Birmingham Post

“A unique entertainment experience for anyone looking to escape the usual Saturday night routine” Birmingham Evening Mail

“This party brings together 50 artists for a five hour pseudo-symphony that segues together everything” The Metro

“The Project X Presents collective – a group of Birmingham-based designers, promoters and performers – aim to break the traditional concert set up with three stages, immersing the audience in a customised environment that builds from a meditative state to a full on dance climax, and covers everything from classical to breakbeat, comedy to dance, all delivered with a strong visual element.” Whats On

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More information here

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Feedback on djing gigs & Mr Elephant events

Mr Elephants 2nd birthday

After three hours sleep, I’m awake!  and running through the final kit checks for the train journey to Brum.  Not only the Mr Elephant birthday party, but also my first VJ workshop.  This will be seen as an introduction to hardware VJing using the Edirol kit I have now assembled.  With an early start to these preceeding scheduled for 3pm, it’s all hands on decks wilst myself and Liam setup the two rooms for the evenings mayhem and merriement. Anyway, the hardware tutorials went (I think) well, and the star pupil without a shadow of doubt was Charly.  Talk about getting it quickly or duck to water (or do feel free to enter your own analogy for that matter) anyhow, I digress ….

Even when I cheekily stepped away from the mixer for a bit and watched, I was bloody impressed!  Hopefully though, the participents of the said workshop enjoyed themselves and have a smidge of a better understanding of what a hardware VJ actually does (apart from getting asked to put on some abba or R n bloody bee).  Throughout the workshop, Mr Elephants two superb guest camera ops (Jack Braybant and Julie Hyland) were running around the event capturing loads of footage from the setup, the workshops and into the night.  I can’t wait to see the footage and begin the editing for Mr E TV!

The night kicked off with a superb loop set from Laura Louise in which I had the oppertunity to play with the mixer and get in some nice feedback effects for her entire set with additional content coming from Liam (Blendstate).   Caught up with Mike Freear of Alphadrive before his gig too, absolute top bloke !!!  I loved the music! (I danced the whole set!), the energy (did I mention I danced the whole set?), and the reaction of all those sweaty, jumping about bods that were at the front of the stage!  and then the finalae from Marc Reck himself was a joy to VJ to.   This gentle reader then led to an early morning unwind back at the hostess of the night’s abode.  Thanks must go to Laura for the music, hospitality and tea.

As per usual though, there were so many people that came together to macke this an absolute blinder of an event, and I’d like to thank Marc and Pyn for encouraging me to actually begin with the workshops that have been on a drawing board for so long, Liam for lights, visuals and his siter workshop on software vjing, Rich batsford for an amazing set, the osmosis boys for a storming night of techno and heavy breaks (class work!), Charley for participating and playing!, Laura for a storming opening set and hospitality, and Mr Mike Freear and Alphadrive!  Hope to catch ya when you visit these lands further south.

Sleep however, never came … and around half nine I was off on my train travells again back to Leicester for the finale of my weekend!

It’s something else to actually see some of the energy and preparation that goes into creating such a mammal and Marc and Pyn have it down to a tee.  The revellers were taken on an ecletic evening of sound and light that puts all of the Leicester events to shame.  I look forwards to working closer with Marc and Pyn over the coming months and can wholeheartedly recommend that everyone has to experiance a Mr Elephant party at least three times in their life.

From John Mostyn on Mama Matrix gig

“Top night last night. Dog was cool too, win win.”"

From Carli Louise Francis on Celebrate Birminghams Underground 2

” Props on an awesome set! x”

From James Lawrence Slattery on Celebrate Birminghams Underground 2

“ahhh marc your set was amazing that night, as per usual *kisskiss*”"

From Ruby Mason on Party Rockin Mammal Sessions 2

Thanks for playing such wicked music! Yeah

From Anita Jones on Celebrate Underground 1

“I’ve been stuck in a worm hole with how long its taken me to show my appriciation,  But wot a fantastic night 20/09/08 bet ur chuffed how it turned out.     Whens ur next Biggy RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA?”

From Sam Redmore (Leftfoot/Freestyle) on Night Times Award

“it’s true.. best local dj indeed. nice one mate! best start preparing that acceptance speech…”

From Sam Land

“Easy! had an awesome night last night, think me and jen well and truly had it on that dance floor. lol you and smokedog rocked it last night, fair play! will be catching you on my birthday then friday whoop x”

From Smiley Mic (Loop Pedal Artist)

“The night was capped off by Marc Reck playing some up-beat reggae and ska and a little bit of last chance to dance funk. I love playing gigs with Marc he’s an amazing DJ and a positive person I look forward to playing with again.”

From Bass6 (Beatboxer / Host / Braindrop)

“Been meaning to say thanks for having me down. That was just such a feeel good night. I just did a little read up on the review of the night and thanks so much for great review! Defintely be up for future events..  Anyway, loving the way you are running the show at the moment..gotta try and get you involved with some london goings on. Whether it a workshop, Dj, or even run a room. i think Braindrop for you!!!!  Check out braindrop.co.uk for an idea ……. super friendly people shuld work with each other. it always works a treat! – (On Mr Elephant vs Night Times Present Celebrate Birmingham’s Underground #1)

From Amanjot Johal (Dj)

First off, i wanna thank you for some of my favourite nights out this year, project x presents and birmingham underground were more fun than the carpet warehouse on acid…ur mixing is spot on, and i love the way u end ur sets!! (On Project X 4 & Mr Elephant vs Night Times Present Celebrate Birmingham’s Underground #1)

From Hannah Patson (COG Promoter)

“This night was amazing! Great music, visuals, atmosphere and of course Poodles! Especially Pamela who won best in show, she was a beaut! Thanks for such a good night, keep me posted on up and coming events” (On Mr Elephant vs Night Times Present Celebrate Birmingham’s Underground #1)

From Ruby Mason

“That night was perfect! Drumming was so fun!” (On Mr Elephant vs Night Times Presents Celebrate Birmingham’s Underground #1)

From Rich Wanklin (Percussionist)

it was an excellent night! (On Mr Elephant vs Night Times Present Celebrate Birmingham’s Underground #1)

From Jon Elliot (Percussionist)

Had a jolly nice time at your extraveganza! Ta for inviting me & being so cool. (On Mr Elephant vs Night Times Present Celebrate Birmingham’s Underground #1)

From : Dom Brotherton (Event Journalist)

James lets me know you liked the review: i am glad! Good night deserves a good review! A lot of people were saying it’s one of the best nights they’d been to in ages and i concur! fuckin’ wicked!”……the work you do is fucking awesome, truly – (On Mr Elephant vs Night Times Present Celebrate Birmingham’s Underground #1)

From Sarah Wilkinson (Positive News)

Hi Marc, really good to see you the other night and such a great night it was too. Really enjoyed myself. great to see you play too, seems ages.. and such a top set; in fact, as I expected, best set of the night! Tina thought you were ace; that’s the first time she’s “seen” you play and she wasn’t disappointed! (On Mr Elephant vs Night Times Present Celebrate Birmingham’s Underground #1)

From : James Lawrence Slattery (Performance Artist)

“MARC! Saturday was a crazy good time, from very beginning to very end! was the best night out in a long time, probably of the year so far. i couldnt keep out of the beach and anyone who didnt go seriously missed out so much….i cant wait until whatever you do next LOVE” – (On Mr Elephant vs Night Times Present Celebrate Birmingham’s Underground #1)

From : Lyndall Fitzgerald (Lentil fashion)

Thx for the great night!! (On Mr Elephant vs Night Times Present Celebrate Birmingham’s Underground #1)

From : Dj Russ Caine (Marketing Millenium Point/Project X Presents)

Had a good night anyway mate. was fuckin awesome infact! (On Mr Elephant vs Night Times Present Celebrate Birmingham’s Underground #1)

From : Laura Louise (Musician)

Thank you for all your hard work Marc. Was a wicked night! Really enjoyed your set xxx. (On Mr Elephant vs Night Times Present Celebrate Birmingham’s Underground #1)

From : Pyn Stockman (Mask Maker/Community Artist / Dramask)

What a fantastic evening xx (On Djing 2nd Bham Opera Afterparty)

From : John Mostyn (Music Promoter/Consider it Done)

Thanks for your fine set (On Djing 2nd Bham Opera Afterparty)

From : Aart Tanner (Graphic Artist/Tvs Media/Mr Elephant)

Absolutely amazing dude! This mix is not only a perfect example of  what a slammin night out should sound like, but also the constant natural progression of your work and talent. Once again you have not failed to blow me away with a fine selection of sounds whilst beating the crap out of my ear drums. Im sure everyone will agree…Top work Mr Reck…. Top work indeed…(On “Journey to the edge of somewhere” mix)

From : Steve Gwynne

Just listened to the Journey_To_The_Edge_Of_Somewhere – Mix and what a wicked mix!  Still haven’t managed to see you dj and listen to your selection live but will as soon as I can.  (On “Journey to the edge of somewhere” mix)

From : Liam D’Dauthreau (Blendstate Visuals)

Just dloading now! …no doubt it will be a stomper!

From : Rob Horrocks (Marketing Millenium Point/Project X Presents)

Marc is a very good reportage photographer himself as you’ll find if you check his Flickr account. His shots of the build ups to PXP shows are always my favourite.

From :Anna Wren Hodgman – “Always an awesome night – great themes, friendly crew, rockin’ tunes… there’s always a little of something for everyone!  Better than most nights in London!” (On Mark & Shona’s Custom Made Event 5)

From : Mark Smallman (Custom Made Promoter/Dj/MMM Events)

cheers for taking photos on Sat mate….and for rocking the rainbow.. again! (on djing Custom Made 5)

From : Liam Blendstate (Visual Artist)

That was a trunk swinging, footstomping blast of a night. We couldn’t of hoped for a better reaction from the crowd. Mr Elephant and the Hare and Hounds seem to go together like bread and butter! I was chuffed the window worked out so well as a giant screen. Theres a bit of a (visual-centric) video here: http://www.vimeo.com/1218379..Loving your work

From : Rich Batsford (Musician / Music & Comedy Promoter)

Great bit of blogging  and what a great event! (on Mr Elephant at the Longest Day Festival)

From : Liam Blendstate (Visual Artist)

Thanks again for the tune mate, excellent stuff – you can tell it was a labour of love! (on Finished with the War Track)

From :Claire Selina Thompson (Blue Ginger)

Love the cd. Playing it at Blue Ginger a lot! That Nitin Sawhney Tracks is one of those that pierces straight through you and stops you in your tracks (not good when bringing food out!) – (on Mr Elephant’s Journey Round the World)

From : Paul Basra – just wanted to show my appreciation for your wicked set at the hounds on Saturday, wasnt sure if there would be enough room to do some moves, but i found it! They should of put you upstairs so i could of really gone for it! (on djing Mr Elephant at the Longest Day Festival)

From : Naomie Mcgregor

wow! you guys are so inspirational, i really love what your doing and wish you all the best with current/future events and work shops. I’ll let you know should i hear of any ideas worth considering! All the best, peace and lovelyness to you all nome xxxx! (about Mr Elephant website)

From : Matt Krogan (aka Jinpow/Artist)

I love that place it totally rocks! Long live the hair and hounds! (on Mr Elephant 3)

From : Tracy Russon (Amazon)

“Hello mista! Thanks for a truly fantastic night, it was ace! We need more nights like this, definitely. x” (on Mr Elephant 3)

From : Mark Smallman (Custom Made Promoter/Dj/MMM Events)

“Hi mate, Friday was a wicked night!! I didn’t get up for my flight! Got a call from the airport from the crew saying i should have been there 30 mins ago….. i was still fast asleep and pissed Just made in by a whisker. Hope you are well brother”! on Mr Elephant 3

From : Yannis Yfestos (Fruitaloka)

“Hello, I really enjoyed the event on 25th April! There was a pleasant atmosphere with the masks and all the suprises. I liked contributing in the procession with my bells! It was great! on Mr Elephant 3

From : Andrew Tomkinson (MMM Events)

“hey dude, great evening last nite at the birthday bash, keep up the good work” on Mr Elephant 3

From : Andrew Potterton (Music Industry Consultant for Armstrong learning)

“I also know Marc Reck well, I love what he is up to”

From : Alina Ha (Photographer)

“thank you for great music!”on Rockfall 5

From : Mark Smallman (Custom Made Promoter/Dj/MMM Events)

“Mate you were really good as ever. Full respect to ya mate!”! (On Custom Made 3)

From : Rob Nicholas (Photographer)

“You set rocked once again, you never fail to fill that dancefloor! (On Custom Made 3)

From : Jon Kennedy (Grand Central Records)
you sir have some fckn stuff ! Proper Job ! where can i get a mix of yours ? (On Custom Made 3)

From : Clare (London artist)
“Completely blown away!! I’ve never seen djing with a live 4 piece string quartet before! I don’t know how we are going to describe this back in London, but be sure that we will be. A truly inspiring night. – (On Project X 2)

From : Aart Tanner (TVS Media) -

That was so fuckin amazing mate! Can’t believe you pulled that off without a monitor for half the set! Unbelievable – (on Project X 2)

From : Amrita (Birmingham Musician/Vocalist)

“Really inspired and proud of you all!” (on Project X 2)

From : Elin Morgan (Birmingham Artist)

“My Friends from Uni said to tell you they thought your set was awesome..and so did i! We all really loved the whole night lots – (on Project x 2)

From : Carlos (Jump Shake Rattle n Roll Promoter/Resident)

“Great time, beautiful work, well done you lot!” – (on Project X 2)

From : Mark Smallman (Custom Made Promotor)

“Well done for last night. Great set!” – (on djing the reopening of the Que Club at Drop Beats Not Bombs)

From : Ali Mack (Holistic Therapist)

“You did a great job. Like a feather, a structure so complex, yet light as it effortlessly floats. – (on djing the reopening of the Que Club at Drop Beats Not Bombs)

From : Dodgy Greg (Subvert Promoter/Resident)

“You played a blinder last night mate. All agreed you slayed the place. Just listening to your “Mr Elephant Mixtape for friends” coming down…Lovely ” – (on djing Boogie’s 40th/Stupid Underground)

From : Ric Woodall (Night Times editor + Breakthru promoter) – “I had an absolute Riot, great night out. Met many nice people, Derek and boogie were good, but Marc Reck’s set was something else..truly talented guy” – (on djing Custom Made 2)From : Mark and Shona (Custom Made) – “Marc, You dirty little bastard!! What an amazing set!! You got the entire room dancing and hanging off the rafters! Never seen so much energy in one room for a long time…..on a Sunday too!! Marc Reck ROCKS ” – (on djing Custom Made 2)

From : Becca Thomas (Birmingham Dance Collective) – “thank you so much for last night! my favourite dancefloor moment has to be dancing (and singing, if my memory serves) with pyn to that song from chicago. and the muppets of course, they were good too. hope i haven’t just destroyed your rep as a hardcore breaks dj.. – (on djing Custom Made 2)

From : Becca Thomas (Birmingham Dance Collective) – “thank you so much for last night! my favourite dancefloor moment has to be dancing (and singing, if my memory serves) with pyn to that song from chicago. and the muppets of course, they were good too. hope i haven’t just destroyed your rep as a hardcore breaks dj.. – (on djing Custom Made 2)

From : Rich Batsford (Musician/Music&Comedy Promoter) – “Nice work mate! Lots of lovely quality there, thanks so much for playing my tunes amongst such class. Fluffy Clouds is such a classic, not least for using a sample from my all time favourite piece of Steve Reich, Electric Counterpoint. Nice bit of Nitin Sahwney – doubt I’ll ever forget seeing him at the Symphony Hall with you, what a great concert from a superb all round musician and inspiration.Some other great tunes there, and I think Gudonya finished it off quite nicely too Gudonya!” on Mr Elephant’s Mixtape for friend

Kelsang loves “Mr Elephant’s Mixtape for Friends” so much that he wants to shake mr elephant’s trunk!:p – Kelsang (Electronic Producer/Dj)

Yes Phatty, thanks for the pics, that was a wicked party, man! One love, Jam Jah on Mr Elephant 1

Last night was the closest I have seen to an outdoor free party atmosphere indoors, nice one – Reked DSI on Mr Elephant 2

This events so damn good PLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEASE make it a monthly one!!! – Opensphere DSI on Mr Elephant 2

From : Rich Batsford (Musician/Music&Comedy Promoter) – “the first Mr Elephant has to be one of the best nights Ive been too. Up there with Drop Beats and Project X Presents as truly remarkable creative and boundary defying beauty and all in such an intimate atmosphere. Been looking forward to the next one for ages! See you on the dancefloor” (on Mr Elephant 1)

Thank you Mr Elephant for stomping all over Funkatronic. Make no mistake you alone made the crowd react the way they did, with music selection, mixing and lets not forget flashing that charasmatic trunk of yours. Funkatronic was most impressed by the whole package that is Marc Rekk and would hope that future tings can gwarn!! cos you’ve definately got the Funkatronic flava. Mr Elephant what can i say? keep doin what it is that you do cos its always class.
One Love – Dani C (Funkatronic Promoter & Resident)

Hey Marc wicked show @ Drop Beats. Spitting feathers untill 1st of June @ FUNKATRONIC – One Love – Dani C (Funkatronic Promoter & Resident)

we rocked a fat one! – Vj Chromatouch on our Drop Beats set

Hi Marc, loved your set at Peace not War…. shame I lost the dancers due to time!!!… but enjoyed the whole thing anyways! My mates and I were the last one’s dancing in the place!! Peace and love x – Lisa Wetton (Physically Speaking Dance)

Yo Mr. Elephant man, last saturday was proper good. everyone was swinging their trunks like there’s no tomorrow. – Dj Olly Boon (Eardrum) – Mr Elephant 1

it was a really good nite, the samba band was great and the final hour with you and lopan on the decks was superb – Toby (Sexual Allstars)

Was a pleasure working with you. Had a wicked night. Jock (Evolve) – Mr Elephant 1

WHOOOAAAA, what a f***** bad bwoy night last night. Muchness big ups and massive respects. Soon come the next one. Kelsang

What a fucking crazy mashup! Marc, that was totally badass! Everyone played killer sets and you could really hear the difference in style, then that last hour was fucking CHAOS! Thanks again – Captain Smithers (Crash Repeat)

What a night… really enjoyed playin with you dude, hope we can do similar stuff in the future. peace Mooncup (Percussionist) Mr Elephant 1

Wicked night, I had a brilliant time, samba central rocked. Thanks Mr Elephant! – Mr Elephant 1

Best night ive been to in ages. More than just a terrific breaks night – dances, masque parades, mask making, samba carnival, free veggie food. absolutely amazing. Rich (Project X Presents/Gag Club) – Mr Elephant 1

Marc FUCKIN ROCKS IT!!!!!!!!!!!!! – J Break – (Cyberian Nights/After Dark/Florida)

Marc is a legend, his DJ skills are as good – if not better – than most of the ‘famous’ overpriced DJs i have worked with – Tom Dunstan aka Automaton /Dj Deft, (Earko Promotor, Breaks Dj/Producer.

“Marc is a fine, enthusiastic, personable and dedicated promoter and DJ. As one of the co-founders of Project X Presents, his contribution has been invaluable both in terms of his own work as promoter and DJ, and the high quality of the other people whom he as introduced to the group. Rockfall is one of the premier nights in the city and on the cutting edge of the Breaks scene.” Rich Batsford, (Musical Director of Project X Presents)

“Good work on rockfall, managed to get along to the first one and it was an awesome night. Looking forward to going to some more in the future.” – Ed Delerium

“thanks a lot for the party last week, i really enjoyed it” – Dj Flore on Rockfall 2

“Birmingham has been crying out for a breaks night like this, and with the variety of djs you’ve got..” – Netto Fabulous on Rockfall 1

“i had a wicked time, and im pretty sure nearly every other person there did as well!!!” – Netto Fabulous on Rockfall 2

Saturday was truly a wicked night, you should feel very proud that you brought something different to Birmingham. And I’m so glad that there were so many people there to support you! Well done!” – Netto Fabulous On Project X Presents

“Sat night was wicked, well done. Really enjoyed your set – the belly dancer was a fantastic touch!” Nicky Getgood on Project X Presents

“You totally rocked saturday! What a star!!! ” – Dawn O Brien (Khalangi Belly Dance) on Project X Presents

“Marc, your set was incredible on Sat, a fitting end to the evening. Was amazing working with you and been great to get to know you” – Chris Skerrit (Production Manager/Unterwelt Director) on Project X Presents

“Like Fxck – a blinding set! – just wanted to say what a joy it was working with you! – Unterwelt (International Performance Artists) on Project X Presents

Loved performing to your ‘Exodus’ track, it got better and better everytime we heard it!! – Unterwelt (International Performance Artists) on Project X Presents

And what an amazing night ‘Like Fxck’ turned out to be, exceeding the hype and selling out! – Unterwelt (International Performance Artists) on Project X Presents

Look forward to collaborating on future Project X events and let us know if you need some crazy performers for future Rockfall nights etc” – Unterwelt (International Performance Artists) on Project X Presents

“I was looking at your website yesterday and listening to your mixes at work. I love your stuff!! My boyfriend and his mate were so excited by your set, and Paul is a bit of a music nazi. They just kept shouting “TUNE” every song. I suspect he fancies you a little bit!! Anyway I was looking at when you are next playing and I’ve forgotten but if you let me know I’ll come and see you. I think you’re ace and it was wicked meeting you and performing/getting in your way! – Kelly Higgs – Unterwelt on Project X Presents

“Thank you so much for such a wonderful night, chick. I loved your set – especially the first track. I want it! Give it! Nowwwwwwwwwww!!” – Tracy Russon on Project X Presents

“Nice one bro! Good work to you too.. what an amazing night!! – great tune that marley mix bro!! – Jon Smokedog (Sound Engineer/Producer) on Project X Presents

“Project x just wouldnt have been the same without ur rockin’ beats, all that hard work certainly does pay off!” – Mizz Mclure (Frontwoman in Koala Grip) on Project X Presents

“lovin your work, heres to the next one” – Justin (Drummer/Sound Engineer of Project X) on Project X Presents

“totally love you to bits. you are a hippy a homeboy AND a funky dread!” – Leon Chromactouch (Vj) on Project X Presents

“there’s no one better for the job of bringing the show to a climax with energy, thought and good vibes.” – Rich Batsford, (Musical Director) on Project X Presents

“much enjoyed your radio show today – Lyndall was fancing around the flat to “the tune”! And thanks again for ending the Project X gig the best way possible” – Rich Batsford, (Musical Director)

“You’re a sweet and lovely man, Marc, and it’s always a pleasure to see you – both in ‘real life’ and on the worldwidecybernet” – Jules Gray (Singer/Songwriter)

“It really is a piece of work Marc.. a journey of contrasting styles and musical vigour that’s perfectly mixed, brilliantly chosen and superbly thought out.
The ppl I did play it to, once I got home, agreed – they’ve been privvy so far to a completely different ‘Marc Reck’ and this, as it did me, hit them by storm.

But, what a journey, all tied in at the end by that amazing Sigur Ross track which brings the whole ‘music’ experience to a huge close and leaves you somewhat in awe. I listened to it with Jack as we drove thru all weathers down the M54. It isn’t that it “just” makes good driving music, even though the double edge thing was that while physically travelling on one journey I was listening simultaneously to another journey. Jack leant forward at one point and turned up the bass and said “God yes, this is it this is” (to get a reaction out of him is pretty amazing and thats the first time I’ve seen him actually moved by what he was hearing).

After that, I must’ve listened to it another 5 times during the course of the weekend.. in all sorts of different states. Its pretty much had the same affect on everyone.. so it can’t be just me reading things into it. Everytime I finished listening to it, someone came into the house asking to play it again. Even Valentino Canziani has never been played in my living room that much and consecutively too. Surly that speaks volumes about its quality. …Your best work yet mate ” – Sarah Wilkinson (Graphic Designer/Positive News)

“It comes to mind if you played there they’d be blown away by your expertise” – Sarah Wilkinson (Graphic Designer/Positive News)

“really really enjoyed rockfall.. well done all. Anyway, at the after party, and I asked lots of people, everyone who DIDN’T go to rockfall seemed to have a “mediocre evening” whereas everyone who DID go to rockfall had a brilliant night ..ALL night!!” – Sarah Wilkinson (Graphic Designer/Positive News)

Everyone at the party I went to was totally raving over Rockfall.. saying for example “it was the best event they’d been to for ages,” “the atmosphere was really special,” “the tunes were good all night long and there was never a time you could safely sit down without hearing that you were missing something” – Sarah Wilkinson (Graphic Designer/Positive News)

“if i download anymore of your cd’s though, I’ll have to get a bigger glove compartment.. my car is now full up! – Sarah Wilkinson (Graphic Designer/Positive News)

Here’s a lovely review from online birmingham clubbing magazine The Blaggerz Guide, from their clubbing editor Jo about Mr Elephant Presents 2!

“A day of silly fun and phat funky breaks began with the mask making during the hot sunny Saturday afternoon. We gathered at the skate park at 2pm and sparked our creative brain cells into action, with attaching all sorts of sparkly, shiny bits and pieces to our mask shapes producing some weird and wonderful creations. There was plenty of fun had all round and it’s fair to say that the best masks were created by the youngest minds.

By Day

After an afternoon bbq at the Prince, we met up later on that night back at the skate park for the Mr Elephant carnival experience.

Mr Elephant had thought of everything possible for a fun carnivalesque evening. Upstairs, in the early stages of the night, guests could help themselves to the free Indian vegan buffet on offer, the samosa’s were definitely the tastiest and quite obviously the most popular, as they weren’t available for long. While guests were stuffing themselves on the food, Jibbering records spun a vast array of tunes from all corners of the globe.

Downstairs, in the main room, the DJ’s of the night, gave outstanding animated performances. Everyone in there seemed to be having a fantastic night, with the atmosphere and vibe was becoming more a more fun-filled as the night went on. The DJ’s were feeding off the emotions of the crows and the crowd in turn were feeding off the emotions of the DJ’s, with everyone seeming to be having as much fun as a 6 year old at a funfair!

The phat breaks were accompanied by live percussionists Mooncup and Mylo and friends, who gave the funky breaks an almost 3d audio quality as they drummed along to the tempo and rhythm of the tunes.

By Night

Visual entertainment was supplied in 2 parts, the crowd were joined in the main room by Khalaghani belly dancers, whose hypnotic movements and colourful costumes kept many folks attention whilst they were dancing. Behind the DJ’s, Chromatouch’s visuals were a mix of joyously eclectic animations that he amazed the guests with how harmoniously they were mixing with the tunes.

Outside the main room was even more entertainment. Some of the guests watched some of the selection of videos supplied by Indymedia on the 20ft screen, whilst others had loads of fun making themselves a carnivalesque mask (or 3)

Mr Elephant Presents was a brilliant day. He had thought of everything possible for a fun event and more… luckily there’s not too long to wait till the next one as it’s on August 4th.”