For two decades, Lukas Wigflex has remained one of the UK underground’s most respected selectors, a DJ whose fearless approach to club music has helped shape dancefloors far beyond his Midlands roots.
Now, as he celebrates 20 years behind the decks, he brings that landmark tour to Leeds for a standout date at Eiger Studios, alongside a carefully curated lineup of special guests.
With Eiger Studios continuing to build momentum through its ambitious club programme, the event feels like a defining moment for the venue as much as the artist himself: a meeting point between one of the scene’s most trusted names and one of Leeds’ most exciting emerging spaces. Ahead of the show, we caught up with Lukas to talk about two decades in electronic music, the evolution of UK club culture, and what people can expect from this special anniversary celebration. Here we do a 60-second interview with Lukas himself.
Ticket available – https://ra.co/events/2371804
Looking back, what first inspired the creation of Wigflex, and did you ever imagine it would still be going 20 years later?
I just wanted to throw a party for my mates and play some records we weren’t hearing in Notts at that time. I never had designs for a second one, let alone to be here still 20 years later.
What were some of the defining moments or parties that shaped the identity of Wigflex over the years?
All the secret location stuff in Notts, the two Wigflex City Festivals, the 24-hour parties at Corsica Studios and being able to do one at Closer in Kyiv was a huge honour for me personally.
Leeds has always had a strong underground music culture, which made the City such an important place for Wigflex?
Loads of my friends went to university in Leeds back in the day, so I’ve been partying here since the early noughties. As a punter, I’ve had many special nights out in the City, so when the opportunity to do something for the tour at Eiger arose, I jumped at the chance.
Are there any particular Leeds venues or nights that hold special memories for you personally?
The early Exodus parties at the West Indian Centre will always hold a special place in my heart. Special mentions to Stinky’s, Imaginarium, Ruffage at Wire and the mental house parties at my mate’s house in Headingley.
Wigflex has always had a reputation for pushing boundaries musically. How important has experimentation been to the brand?
I’m full of sugar and get bored quite easily. I guess that plays a part in the constant evolution, as I can’t sit still.
Over 20 years, what’s been the biggest challenge in keeping an underground night authentic while the scene around it changes?
Sticking to your guns and not following trends.
Do you think younger clubbers today experience nightlife differently compared to the early Wigflex years?
Hmmm, wary of being that jaded middle-aged rave victim here, but the fact that you have to go outside for a cigarette and most of the room not being on ecstasy has definitely changed it a little. It’s taken a while, but we’ve definitely built what we want to attract; the parties on this tour have all been insane. I pinch myself I get to do this for a living.
How do you balance nostalgia for the classic era of club culture with keeping Wigflex forward-thinking?
At the end of the day it’s a party; people want to get drunk and escape for a little bit. Don’t overthink it, just have fun and give folk something mind-bending to listen to.
What keeps you personally excited about DJing and curating events after two decades?
Seeing people’s reactions to hearing certain records for the first time will never get old.
As Wigflex enters its next chapter, what new ideas, sounds or projects are you most excited to explore?
Peep Festival is the new baby I’m really excited about, and while it’s not strictly a Wigflex or run by myself personally (out to my partners Sandy and Dr Banana), it has my grubby little mitts all over it and is set to be very special.
Finally, if you could sum up 20 years of Wigflex in one sentence or feeling, what would it be?
Gloop, wobble, click.
