In this episode of Hard House History, Paul sits down with one of the genre's true originators, Jon the Dentist, for a raw and reflective deep dive into the foundations of the sound that shaped a generation. From the early rave days, to the birth of Baby Doc and the Dentist, to the breakthrough of Global Phases, Jon shares the stories behind the music, the culture, and the chaos that made Hard House what it is.
Jon opens up about his early influences, his love of eighties electronica, and how European trance and techno inspired him to experiment with synths long before the term "Hard House" was coined. The pair unpack Jon's creative process, including his legendary sound-categorising system, his unexpected comparison to Depeche Mode, and the spontaneous late-night studio sessions that led to scene-defining releases.
There are emotional moments too, as Jon reflects on his friendship with HMS, the origins of his DJ name, and the realities of losing friends and collaborators far too young. His honesty brings a heartfelt layer to an episode that captures the full arc of a career built on passion, experimentation, and a deep respect for the music.
Jon also reveals his rebirth as an electronic composer under In Space We Dance and the creation of his new album, The Frontier, inspired by modern progressive house, Vangelis, and cinematic soundscapes. It offers a fascinating glimpse into how an innovator evolves.
JOIN THE DENTIST'S CHAIR
What is your favourite Jon the Dentist or Baby Doc and the Dentist track?
Did Global Phases change your dance floor days?
Do you miss the raw experimentation of the early studio era?
Were you a Trade regular, or did you discover the sound somewhere else?
Which synth defined your early rave years?
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