Garage Man: MJ Cole at Punk This Friday

Ever since scoring a massive 1998 hit - "Sincere" - out of a track he produced in his bedroom, MJ Cole has been one of British dance music's leading lights, and a key figure in the UK Garage scene whose influence helped bring about much of what Britain listens to today (well, the good bits - Simon Cowell spawned pretty much everything else). Cole started his musical career early, playing piano and oboe, even taking part in the BBC's Young Musician of the Year contest as a youngster, so we asked him how a classical background sets up a producer/DJ with more electronic inclinations.

We recently interviewed LTJ Bukem – another producer who, like yourself, has a background in classical music. Do you think producers with classical training bring something different to the table?
It's impossible for me to say exactly how much my classical training has helped me, but I have no doubt that I'm using it every minute of every day, from chord progressions and harmonies to aural skills and vocal production. It's a very solid foundation and something I'd encourage for all musicians.

You’re recognized as one of the pioneers of UK Garage. If you could have created or helped pioneer any other musical genre, what would it be?
I'm very happy with the fact that I'm recognised as one of the pioneers of UK Garage, as it's played a part in the birth of so many other types of music, such as Dubstep and Funky. If I had to pick something, I would have liked to have been associated with from the beginning - though I'd be ten years older - it would have to be drum & bass.

If Charlie Sheen was a producer, what do you think his music would sound like?
In his current state I don't think Charlie Sheen would be able to make up his mind what he wanted from a record. It would be a never-ending whirlwind of direction changes. The engineer in that session would have to be well paid and have the patience of a saint.

Has anyone ever said you look like somebody else?
I often get likened to John Terry and occasionally Ben Affleck

Finally, which famous Cole would you most like to have as a member of your family – Cheryl, Ashley or Nat “King”?
Nat "King" of course. Legend.

Be sincere with MJ Cole at Punk on Friday, April 22. RMB 50, free (before 11pm). 10pm.