James Poole

James Poole is in self-imposed exile in New York City. Originating from Stoke-on-Trent in the industrial north of England, he was shaped by the music emerging from Manchester through the 80s and 90s, and the relentless sound of Motown in his family home. This clash of influences is at the heart of the freethinking philosophy. The strict conventions of genre shouldn’t rule what we listen to; it’s about a feeling. Sounds from Manchester in the 90s should be heard next to batucada. James has applied this outlook in New York and in the UK, including opening for acts such as 808 State and Manchester pioneers A Certain Ratio. Coming from an alternative perspective to most DJs on the NYC circuit, you can be sure to hear music that’s new to you, even if it’s from the early 70s. Good Music. freethinking music. It’s about throwing the record crate in the air, seeing where it lands, and showing you what you may have missed. Let’s embrace the unknown, and see how joining the dots can lead to sounds that are fresh, regardless of their age. It’s his desire to push the boundaries that makes him a freethinker.