Hailing from the Dirty D (aka Dayton, OH), Ruckus Roboticus is a mastermind at fusing many genres of music into one piece of sheer magic. Not only is he experienced in remixing for the stars (heard that Bloc Party remix?), he has been on stages with mounds of notorious DJs. Not to mention he can be heard on Nickelodeon and the Disney Channel. He must be busy. His new solo album, “Playing with Scratches,” was released in 2007 and portrays a “semi-autobiographical” story. Read on for why he loves the city he grew up in.

What’s your town’s nickname?
The Gem City
What’s your nickname for your town?
The Dirty D, the D-Y-T, or D-town.
Why do you live there?
Mainly because I grew up here — it’s familiar, convenient, and comfortable.  It’s also very affordable, and has very few distractions.
What is your favorite local attraction (monument, park, etc)?
Either of our two independent movie theaters — The Neon, and the Little Art Theater.

What is your favorite local event/festival?
Roller derbies, put on by The Gem City Roller Girls.
What is the best time of year to be there?
I prefer Autumn.  It’s not too hot, or too cold, and I love the smell in the air around that time.
Who is your favorite local celebrity/personality?
Any of the fabulous Rubi Girls, or DJ Rev. Cool.
Where is the best place to drink and what’s their specialty or happy hour?
In general, my favorite is Therapy Cafe.  They specialize in martinis, but I usually stick with beers.
Who has the best jukebox (and what’s in it)?
Sadly, I have no idea.  I’m usually at a bar that has a DJ or a band, so the jukeboxes get ignored!
What is your favorite place to see live music and what was your favorite show there?
Canal Street Tavern — The Asylum Street Spankers.
What is your favorite local band?
Even though they are no longer active, Brainiac.
What is your favorite diner or restaurant and what is their best dish?
It’s hard to pick just one… but it has to be Thai 9.  And my favorite dish — again it’s hard to pick just one — but… the Massaman Curry.
What is your favorite record store and what was your best find there?
For vinyl, Omega Records.  For CDs & Miscellaneous music goods, Gem City Records.  I can’t recall my best finds…
What is your favorite local shop?
Dorothy Lane Market — an incredible grocery store, and so much more!
What is your favorite local publication (alternative weekly, zine, website or blog)?
Our alternative weekly — the Dayton City Paper.  Interesting side note — I am hopelessly addicted to their crossword puzzle.