Optimo’s JD Twitch diagnosed with inoperable brain tumor

JD Twitch, aka Keith McIvor, who is one half of great DJ/production duo Optimo (Espacio), has been diagnosed with a brain tumor his doctors say is inoperable. He shared the sad news via his Instagram, writing, “My symptoms weren’t immediately diagnosed, and my health declined very quickly over just a few weeks,” also saying, “I am currently trying to process this news and prioritising spending precious time with the people I love.”

“I want to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my journey in music, from the early days of Pure in Edinburgh in the ’90s and through the past 28 years of Optimo (Espacio),” McIvor continued. “Jonnie [JG Wilkes] and I have been lucky enough to play our music at countless clubs and festivals throughout the world and it has been one of the greatest honours of my life to make a career out of something I love. We have connected with so many beautiful souls through our shared passion for music…I trust Jonnie implicitly to continue Optimo (Espacio). I know he will carry it forward with the same spirit and passion we always shared showing you, as ever, just how much ‘we love your ears.’”

Jonnie, his partner in Optimo, also shared a statement: “It is with the deepest sadness and reflection that I’m here writing to you in light of Keith’s diagnosis. It is too painful to put into words what I really feel. I don’t know if I even have the words. Keith and I have been through so much together in our 28 year partnership. We are connected in a way that perhaps only he and I can understand. I do know however, that if you ever heard us play together then you will have realised how deep that connection is. I love you Keith. You inspired me like nobody else could and I’m so proud of what we’ve done together. I will continue Optimo (Espacio) with you always in my heart. The music will speak for both of us. Your anarchic spirit and your ferocious energy is all around me.”