The Glasgow New York Transatlantic Connection™ between Optimo and DFA is real, and it goes back to the beginning. The Rapture played at Optimo first, in the summer of 2002, with Keith and Jonnie flying to New York to DJ James’ DFA party at APT later that same year. They've played our records, hosted our artists, DJ’d our parties, contributed remixes and records to the DFA catalog, hugged us sweatily into the night, and been more than family ever since.
You may have heard that Keith was recently diagnosed with glioblastoma, a terminal brain tumor. A crowdfunder has been established (
link here) to help cover the cost of his care with, in true Keith form, any surplus going to benefit the many very real and local causes that the man has supported all of his brilliant career. The struggle of our dear friend has generated a righteous and justified wave of support from people all around the world, and not least from all of the good humans of DFA.
This shirt is our tiny way of trying to raise money for our friend (every bit of profit will go to Keith’s fund) but it’s also an opportunity for us to show love and respect where it’s so truly deserved, with a truth:
No DFA Without Optimo.
For Keith + his family, Jonnie, and all our friends in Glasgow and abroad. We love you very much.
