I think both Tim [Dan’s brother] and I kind of fell into what has become Double Adapter. I’ve been playing gigs as a DJ since I was 15, mainly to get into clubs. Tim became a DJ when I forced him into it for one of my exhibitions and then starting playing with a group called Cutout Collective.
I joined them shortly after as the VJ for the band. We started Double Adapter as a side project and just kind of progressed from there.
We love electro. We’re both extremely passionate about it and it’s something that we both want to share and enjoy. For us, there is nothing like playing our favourite music. That’s what keeps us going. Well, that and tequila.
Being five years apart, Tim and I come from two different backgrounds with regard to cultural influences. I think I have always been more visually inclined and Tim has been more focused on the sound, although we both enjoy music, films and art. In terms of music we both like rock ‘n roll and electronica and, visually, I would say Jim Jarmusch and pretty much anything photographical, illustrated or based on street art interests us.
International tours
Following the success of our documentary (Adapt or Die) and European tour, I think we both want to just keep playing and sharing what we love while having a great time.
More international tours are being planned as well as more interesting performances. We are a performance-based act and are always looking for new ways to improve this.
We are also planning our first EP release, as well as a series of music videos and incorporating live influences into our recorded material and even our live act.
At the moment, my musical tastes are roaming from electronica to rock and in-between. But to name a few, I would say Chromeo, At the Drive In, Metric — and, of course, there will always be my favourite bands, Soulwax and Bloc Party.
With regard to literature, I’m a big comic-book fan. Don’t get me wrong, I like regular books too, but the pretty pictures are just too appealing. Right now I’ve been re-reading The Walking Dead, a zombie comic-book series, which I have been a fan of for a really long time. I love a good zombie.
Favourite spots
I’d have to say I have two favourite little spots in Jo’burg. I love the Melville Koppies at the moment — it’s so great to be able to get into nature for a bit but still be able to see my favourite city skyline.
My other favourite spot would have to be our home of Greenside. I love the atmosphere in our little community and it’s great being able to say hi to everyone as you walk down the road. We all look out for one another.
Dan Apter is one half of the electro duo, Double Adapter. For more information on Double Adapter, visit www.griet.co.za