Keith McIvor, widely known as JD Twitch and one half of the influential Scottish DJ duo Optimo (Espacio), has passed away at the age of 57. His death was confirmed on September 20, 2025, following a battle with terminal cancer. (ra.co)
Born and raised in Balerno, near Edinburgh, McIvor began his DJ career in the early 1990s as a founding resident of the seminal club night Pure at The Venue. In 1997, he partnered with Jonnie Wilkes (JG Wilkes) to launch Optimo, a Sunday night party at Glasgow's Sub Club. Optimo became renowned for its eclectic music policy, blending genres such as post-punk, disco, house, dub, and techno, and hosting live performances by artists like Grace Jones, LCD Soundsystem, and Peaches. (ra.co)
The duo concluded their weekly residency in 2010 but continued to tour globally, bringing their distinctive sound to audiences worldwide. McIvor also managed the Optimo Music label, releasing a diverse array of music that defied easy categorization. His curatorial prowess was evident in compilations covering DIY post-punk, Fourth World music, and early bleep techno. (ra.co)
In July 2025, McIvor publicly disclosed his diagnosis of an untreatable brain tumor. Despite his illness, he remained committed to his passion for music and the community he helped build. His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow artists, who remember him as a pioneering figure whose influence extended far beyond the dance floors of Glasgow.
JD Twitch's legacy is marked by his unwavering dedication to musical exploration and his role in shaping the landscape of contemporary club culture.