The Operatives turn 15!

The Operatives celebrate 15 years strong on ​Saturday 11th January 2020 at ​The Third Day (North Melbourne). Joined by the original Reggae selector and soundclash legend David Rodigan (BBC, UK) and champion of the new wave of UK garage, ​Conducta (Kiwi Rekords, UK), as well as the full force of ​The Operatives collective of DJs, producers, radio hosts and creatives, the Agents continue their ultimate mission: ​pushing the boundaries of Australia’s music scene, and creating connection in the community through rhythm and bass.

Since their inception hosting parties in basements around Melbourne, The Operatives have been responsible for accelerating musical culture across Australia. With an ear for the emerging talents across many genres spanning hip-hop and electronic, the collective — headed by director and DJ Jerry Poon — has helped launch the careers of countless local artists, and brought to our shores some of the world’s most progressive international musicians including the debut Australian performances of FLYING LOTUS (Warp Records), THUNDERCAT (Brainfeeder), MOUNT KIMBIE (Warp Records), TOKiMONSTA (Brainfeeder/Ultra), MACHINEDRUM (Ninja Tune) and HUDSON MOHAWK (LuckyMe), DJ SPINN (TEKLIFE), MR CARMACK (Soulection) among many more.

David Rodigan​'s epic career began in the 70's hosting the UK's first legal reggae radio show. Since then he has worked with the likes of Bob Marley, emerged victorious at the world's biggest soundclashes, and continues to champion the inclusive and diverse music community from dubstep to ska with no sign of slowing. A world-renowned broadcaster and DJ, get ready for his unique collection of customised dub-plates and classic recordings . Joining the UK Icon is a fellow Brit in Bristol-born ​Conducta. This trailblazer is in no small way responsible for the second wave of UK Grime and some of the most exciting new sounds coming from the bassbins of London. From Soundcloud sensation to performing with the likes of DJ EZ, MJ COLE, CRAIG DAVID — even hosting some features from IDRIS ELBA. Get ready for the battle of old school vs. new skool at WEARE15 — who will win? Most definitely the dance floor.