— Steph Wilson contributed with this report
The Engine Shed was braced for part one of Moda’s 4th birthday on Friday to a sold out crowd, as hundreds of ravers queued in the pouring rain for one of Lincoln’s biggest nights, but nothing seemed to dampen the mood.
Moda was launched in 2006 by Lincoln DJ’s Andy George and Jaymo, which is now a global success, bringing about the best DJs in the world and this year it just got even bigger with Riva Starr, Doorly, Monarchy and Radio 1 DJ Annie Mac.
Speaking before the show, Mac said: “Moda has done a lot to help Lincoln. I don’t think I’d probably play a decent club night in Lincoln, probably be a university ball or something. In terms of bringing good underground music and making it a credible place, Moda has brought International DJs here that wouldn’t have ever come, like Rivva Starr. I’ve stayed here a couple of times and I love it here, it’s really pretty.”
She also explained how she got involved with Moda. “I just got booked like a normal DJ from Andy George and Jaymo before I really knew them and over the course of the last three years since they’ve been at Radio 1 got to know them much better. I now consider them friends, god help me. Now it’s like playing for your cousin or something,” Mac said.
Good music and a good performance are very important to her. Mac said: “I like hearing a track that I like on a big sound system, as music always lifts you out of whatever mood you’re in. If you’re playing out a track you’ve never done before, it’s exciting. And if you have a good gig and it all goes well it’s just the best feeling in the world.”
As the venue began to fill up, it was time for the only live performance of the night from newcomers Monarchy. They certainly made a first impression as they appeared masked, suited, and booted bringing their new unique synthpop to the line up — a definite band to look out for in the future.
The anticipation grew for the return of Annie Mac and as the beat dropped it was clear she meant business. The Irish-born DJ spun an hour and fifteen minute set to an amped crowd. Her set was jammed with deep hooks and wobbly dub that rippled through the Engine Shed, a triumphant return.
After Mac, Huddersfield’s own Doorly brought his dirty dub beats to the stage that lifted the roof, which you couldn’t help but move to. Continuing the party, founders of Moda Andy George and Tom Staar took to the decks, bringing some retro synth to their home crowd.
House artist Riva Starr closed the celebration with his energetic bass drops giving the crowd the last buzz of the night.
Moda will be returning to Lincoln on Friday October 29th with Fatboy Slim.