More than an artist, Paul Oakenfold is a performer, entertaining audiences across the world. The Guinness Book of World Records has named him the most successful DJ in the world. It’s no surprise then that Oakenfold, or “Oakey” as his fans call him, recently launched the “Facelift Tour: Changing the Face of Electronic Music.” The 50 city North American tour kicked off October 7^th in Austin and will commence November 27^th in Toronto. “The idea is to bring young, new talent in from around the world and we’ve done that,” Oakenfold says. “We’ve got Australian DJs (Nervo), we got a Dutch DJ (Chuckie), a local DJ (Rob Lemon) and put together more of a show rather than just turning up and playing music.” The tour will bring Oakenfold through St. Louis on Thursday, November 18^th. He will be performing at Europe Nightclub, equipped with some of his most hypnotic beats, laser lights and one massive video wall.

 

Also included in the tour are a few new tracks fresh out of the studio. Having recently taken up a regular Saturday night residency at The Palms Casino in Las Vegas, Oakenfold says he’s already given them a test run with audiences there and has received a great response. There is no word yet on the title of his next album set for release in May 2011, or on what collaborations, if any, will be included. However, he has expressed a desire to work with Dr. Dre, even though nothing is currently planned. “We’re both producers,” Oakenfold says, “I just think it would be an interesting collaboration.”

 

 “The great thing about electronic music,” he notes, “is people embrace it from all over the world. It really works”. When asked if there is any particular country or demographic he gets the most response from he says, “No. I think it’s across the board. A lot of people just like to go and dance and have a good time.”

 

Other acts opening for Oakenfold throughout the tour include Sidney Samson, Kenneth Thomas, Roger Sanchez and Calvin Harris. For an advance peek at what the tour has to offer, visit Oakenfold’s YouTube page for the “Facelift Tour Teaser” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwqWfRdIq2w). | Jennifer Manjarez

 

Oakenfold plays St. Louis on November 18, 2010 at Europe Nightclub, 
710 N. 15^th St.
(314) 621-5111. 
General Admission tickets are $25 for pre-sale, VIP tickets are $35.