October 10, 1999 — For those who don't know, Steve Beckett and some other guy started Warp Records a long time ago. Steve answers questions. Go, Steve, go!

Brad: Does Richard James ever look in the mirror and beat off to himself?
Steve: I'm positive he does don't we all?

Jreyno: How many stupid questions do you get a day about Aphex Twin? (e.g. is he one person, is he the only artist on warp, is he dead)?
Steve: Probably one a day. Today NME phoned up saying "We have read Aphex Twin would like Steve and Rob to commit suicide, is there a rift with the label?" But I got this email from Richard today:

"hello my little cherub, just thought about the warp rave and i wanted to say in plenty of time, could you make sure the decks are not centre stage with floodlight halogen lighting 1cm away from the back of your neck, but tucked away somewhere as much as possible not in full view, ta, coz i'm looking forward to it loads... oh and can you get a decent mixer with punch buttons, 3 band eq [that's headphone output is loud enough] and then i can be sure to make 'maximum rave potential' possible. bye stevie. rich."

Does that look like someone who wants me to top myself?

Esa Ruoho: What do you guys really think of Tom and Richard?
Steve: I think Tom is a loveable, sensitive genius who is yet to do his best work, which will be next year because he is on a mission.
I think Richard is a loveable insensitive genius who I don't see enough of, I think his next period of music (whenever it comes) will be years ahead of its time whilst still being emotional and "concrety". I think he is one of the most unique people I have ever met, both his good sides and bad sides are unique.

Daniell: If Warp was a fish and chip shop, what would each of the current roster be on the menu?
Steve: Best question so far.

Jimi - cod roe with sausage in batter
Red Snapper - obvious
Squarepusher - chips open
Autechre - chips wrapped
Aphex - deep fried mars bar
Nightmares - cod chips and peas on a tray open with dr pepper
Plone - pea fritters with mint sauce
Mira Calix - would be a sit down meal in the cafe with proper cutlery
Broadcast - chips with curry sauce on a tray open
Boards Of Canada - would be in the psychedelicatessen
Plaid - peas and beans

Samuel Grawe: Aphex Twin or Squarepusher?
Steve: This will be proved once and for all next year.