Best of British

For 20 years, Simon Dunmore's Defected has been dedicated to the finest in house music, from its label and numerous associated imprints, to its events and festivals. Still, it hasn’t all been plain sailing — Defected has traversed choppy waters to become the super-brand it is today. DJ Mag talks to Dunmore about his house history, adaptability and his approach to business... 

For our 2018 Best Of British awards, DJ Mag teamed up with the Young Urban Arts Foundation charity, which aims to make a positive change to the lives of young people through the medium of music. Youth worker and writer Ciaran Thapar reports on what the organisation is doing to help teenagers in adverse situations...

Is wealth and privilege damaging British dance music, and if so, what should we do about it?

WORDS: Matt Anniss
PICS: Nicola Nodland & Jillian Edelstein

Kelly Lee Owens shares a breathtaking hybrid mix including 30 minutes of her Underworld support slot and 30 minutes of home recording. We catch up with the Welsh artist to discuss her growing reputation behind the decks, how spirituality influences her work, and whether artists have a responsibility to make political music...