JD Twitch, Scottish DJ and One Half of Duo Optimo (Espacio), Dies at 57

Keith McIvor—better known to fans and fellow DJs as JD Twitch, one half of the influential Scottish duo Optimo (Espacio)—has died at the age of 57 after a diagnosis of terminal brain cancer earlier this year.

McIvor passed away on Friday, Sept. 19, at the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice in Glasgow. His long-time musical partner Jonnie Wilkes (also known as JG Wilkes) confirmed the news on social media the next day.

“In a 28-year partnership he changed my life immeasurably and together we took our work in directions and to places few people are lucky enough to explore,” Wilkes wrote, sharing photographs of McIvor and a heartfelt message to fans and friends.

Wilkes reflected on McIvor’s relentlessness and generosity of spirit, describing him as fiercely committed to music, creativity and community. He praised Keith’s belief in collective strength and the way he inspired others, adding that McIvor’s energy will continue to live on through those who knew him.

Wilkes also expressed gratitude to McIvor’s family, their close network of supporters and the hospice staff who provided care in his final weeks, and closed his post with a personal farewell: “I love you forever Keith.”

Born in Edinburgh, McIvor first gained recognition in the 1990s for founding the club night Pure. He later moved to Glasgow, where he met Wilkes. In 1997 the duo launched Optimo at the Sub Club — a Sunday-night institution named after the 1983 Liquid Liquid track — that would go on to shape the city’s musical landscape. Optimo hosted early shows from artists including LCD Soundsystem, Franz Ferdinand, Cut Copy, The Rapture, TV on the Radio and Hot Chip; the weekly event continued through 2010.

As Optimo (Espacio), McIvor and Wilkes earned international acclaim for their carefully curated, adventurous DJ sets. The pair toured extensively, released music and ran their own record label, influencing generations of DJs and music lovers.

In July 2025 McIvor publicly disclosed his diagnosis and the rapid deterioration of his health. Optimo’s official channels also initiated a fundraiser to help pay for private nursing and additional support services; details can be found on their crowdfunding page. View the fundraiser.

In an Instagram post dated July 3, McIvor described how symptoms were not immediately diagnosed and how his condition worsened over a short period. He expressed deep appreciation for the people who have supported him throughout his musical career—from the early days in Edinburgh to nearly three decades of Optimo—and for the many connections the duo made through music. Read his post.

Jonnie Wilkes’ tribute and additional photographs honoring McIvor’s life and work are available on Instagram. See Wilkes’ post here.

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