The powerhouse DVJ’s Synematix, created by Brian Prince and Blair Pierce, have been entertaining the masses in Kansas City with music and videos since 2008. The two remix and edit videos to the latest in mainstream, electro, alternative, and house music.
Prince and Pierce, who have worked with national record labels and artists through the years, are now showcasing their talents at KC’s newest club, Lux, with their weekly event called (re)Flex from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Fridays.
DVJ’s Synematix say on their Facebook page that they “pride themselves on being different and creating a total sensory experience for their crowd by creating ‘visual volume’ in every show.” Well, after witnessing their talents firsthand, I can, without a doubt, say that nothing in KC compares to the stimulating and energizing experience you will enjoy with them all night long.
Together, Pierce and Prince recently responded to a series of questions I emailed them about themselves and their work. Here’s what they had to say.
How were you approached to help with Lux? Why this venue?
David Codrington called us about the idea of opening a new dance club at the beginning of 2011. Dave and Blair have been friends throughout the years. So we jumped on board!
We decided to be a part of Lux since it is located in a space that is familiar to the gay community. A few years ago we both frequented the Grand Emporium (where Lux is now located) every Saturday night for their alternative lifestyle night. We have many great memories of our nights there in the past and we truly felt that Kansas City needed a gay dance club that provides a clean and cutting-edge atmosphere.
How would you describe Lux?
The venue has an incredible state-of-the-art sound, lighting, and video system, and is home to some of KC’s best talent.
What exactly is your role there?
Lots! We are the resident DJ’s on Friday nights as well as help out with promotion and planning of the events.
How would you describe what you do and what you give to Lux?

For every show, our show is edited live, bringing a completely unique experience every Friday night at Lux Nightclub.
Are you given much control or input in how you showcase your work?
We have been given a reasonable amount of control. However, the dance floor is always the deciding factor.
How would you describe your style?
We are multi-formatted, including mainstream, alternative, electro, progressive house, and hip hop.
How do you know what the gay community of KC wants to hear? How do you keep up with the times, so to speak?
We are constantly listening to feedback from the community to see what works best locally, but we always monitor the Billboard dance charts, music blogs, Facebook, etc., as well.
How is the scene in KC currently, and where do you see it going?
To be completely honest, over the past few years we have interpreted the gay nightlife scene to become somewhat stale. Together, we both hope to continue to breathe some new life into nightlife by shaking things up and doing things differently.
Tell me how your career got started. Why video?
It actually began as a hobby for the two of us back in early 2008. At the time, video DJ’s were few and far between in KC. So to add an extra element other than just sound, it allows you to tap into another sense of the human body and lets you see what you’re listening to!
What’s the oldest or first video or song that sticks in your head, which made you want to do this?
When first beginning this venture, a few come to mind from the dance/alternative rock format. Two that stand out most are the band Innerpartysystem and video DJ’s the Eclectic Method. Both of their artistic and creative styles played heavily into what we ultimately dreamed of doing. The way they manipulate audio and video together is absolutely MINDBLOWING!
What was the first event you ever played?
The grand opening of Flex Fridays at Crosstown Station, downtown. That was our home for over a year, and where we ultimately began fine-tuning the craft of live video and sound mixology.
What was your best event or venue you played in the past, and why?
Oh, hands down, it was getting to open up for the band Innerpartysystem this past February at The Riot Room. Not only were we getting to play in front of a sold-out crowd, but we also got to play in front of the group that inspired us.
What are your favorite songs or videos of all time?
Literally anything by Armin Van Buuren, BT, Tiesto, Deadmau5, Swedish House Mafia, or Avicii. As far as the newer, up and coming dj/producers, we like Porter Robinson, Skrillex, and Wolfgang Gartner.
Are there any other VJs that you follow?
Yes, Jay E from St. Louis, the Eclectic Method, Crooklyn Clan artists, and way too many more to list.
Do you still get nervous?
Absolutely! One time specifically was when we got the privilege to open for 96.5 The Buzz’s VD Party at The Midland this year in front of 3,000 people. Nothing on Earth could have possibly calmed my nerves after walking out on that stage.
When the party is over, what do you do to unwind?
Have a drink! We don’t usually partake much during live sets due to everything going on, so we’ve been known to get a little wild AFTER the party ends!
What’s the funniest thing that’s happened to you during a set?

There have been MANY great times, but one that stands out in particular was when a certain “adult” star was brought in for an event we were playing. During his go-go dancing performance, a patron grabbed him and started “performing” on him in front of the audience!
Tell me what you do to plan for a set. How long do you prepare? Is there a set list you come up with?
I usually try to come up with a general direction of the set for the night, depending on where and what type of crowd will be in attendance. There are hours of preparation that can go into a set, especially when you are incorporating video, but it’s best to just go with the flow of the room.
What other venues, events do you play throughout the year?
We’ve played some of the city’s best venues, including The Midland, The Jones Pool, Harrah’s Voodoo Lounge, Crosstown Station, Hamburger Mary’s, The Beaumont Club, and The Riot Room.
Do you like when people come and talk to you during a set, or is it a distraction?
While we do love to socialize, it can be very hard to pay attention to the details that come with live video mixing. It can be a challenge, especially if the person talking to you is wasted!
What do you want KC to come away with after your sets?
A fun and engaging club experience that they’ll want to come back and enjoy again and again.
What do you guys do in your downtime?
Unfortunately, there’s not a lot of downtime in either of our lives. With us both maintaining full-time jobs in radio and marketing, there’s nothing more fun on occasion than a nap!
For more on Prince and Pierce, DVJ’s Synematix, check them out on 96.5 The Buzz (www.965thebuzz.com) every Saturday night from 10 p.m. to 1a.m.
You can also find them on Facebook – search DVJ’s Synematix and join the fan page to see upcoming events and shows.