Review: Just Jack at Motion, Bristol

Having frequented Motion ever since the beginning of my time in Bristol, it is obvious that it’s not often that selling event tickets is a struggle for the big players of the city. Especially, when nights come around run by Just Jack; not long after their incredible celebration of 10 years. Because of this, attendees were shocked upon arrival that the first chapter in Just Jack’s second decade had fallen so far short of ticket sale targets that the main room was moved from the Marble Factory to Motion’s The Tunnel. With a small turn out, and the lack of the promised introduction of the new bar area above Marble Factory, we remained optimistic this night could only get better. Especially, with the lineup that was on offer.

Objekt began his set at 12:30, following on from Gramrcy with an intricate selection of tracks on the lighter side of techno, including a large number of house and acid tunes. This came as a surprise to many given the DJ’s ruthless sounding reputation. However, he proved his skill as a DJ, mixing in tracks such as Marlon D’s ‘Jesus Creates Sound’, and Ondo Fudd’s ‘Coup d’État’, providing an original blend of his own style and music from a stereotypical Just Jack night.

3am saw DVS1 step up to the decks. Anyone who has seen him play before knows what a journey his sets can provide; a pleasant surprise for those who hadn’t had no idea what was to come. Immediately, the Minneapolis magician sped up the tempo as the smoke machines bellowed out excessive amounts of smoke to such an extent that punters could no longer see their hands in front of their faces. There was no longer a choice. DVS1’s journey was departing and regular attendees of Just Jack were thrust into a fierce introduction of what techno is really about. The moment DVS1 dropped Lewis Fautzi’s ‘Range’ was definitely a highlight.

Despite a worrying start to the night, every person left the Motion courtyard stunned by their experience. The intimacy of The Tunnel did everything but work against both headlining artists, as yet again Just Jack delivered an incredibly memorable night. Until the next time.

Venue – 9/10

DJ/Band – 7/10

Music – 9/10

Overall – 8/10

GUEST WRITTEN BY GUS FREEMAN