Overview
Joel Monteiro, known globally as HOZHO, is a Portuguese music producer and DJ who has captured audiences with his unique Melodark style. Born in Aveiro, Portugal, Monteiro's deep passion for music and the intricacies of the human mind has driven him to create a genre that blends melodic beauty with darker tones, grounded in minimal techno beats.
Monteiro's musical journey began in his youth, experimenting with various electronic music genres. His early work laid the foundation for what would become Melodark. In 2015, inspired by artists like Boris Brejcha, Monteiro started to define his distinctive sound. This period marked the creation of Melodark, a genre combining melodic elements with darker, more somber undertones.
In 2017, HOZHO officially introduced the Melodark project, quickly gaining attention for his innovative sound. His tracks, such as "Honey Trap," achieved significant success, with millions of views on YouTube. HOZHO's music is characterized by a unique blend of melodic beauty and dark synths, often creating a narrative journey for his listeners.
One of his notable projects is the EP PSYCHE, a collaboration with Hungarian artist Droplex. This EP features tracks like "ID," "Ego," and "Superego," exploring the complexities of the human mind through a combination of melodic techno and psytrance elements. Each track delves into different aspects of the psyche, drawing inspiration from Freudian concepts.
HOZHO is known for his distinct stage presence, performing in a plague doctor's mask, symbolizing the warding off of negative energies. This unique visual element, combined with his carefully crafted music, has earned him a dedicated global fanbase.
His single "Troubles In Paradise" reflects on the intricacies of romantic relationships, illustrating that life's challenges persist regardless of outward success. This theme extends to his EP of the same name, which narrates the stages of a breakup through its tracks, each representing different emotional phases.
HOZHO draws inspiration from a wide range of artists and genres, including classical composers like Hans Zimmer, Ludovico Einaudi, and Gustavo Santaolalla. Their melodic and cinematic styles resonate deeply in HOZHO's productions.
His DJ sets are meticulously curated to ensure smooth transitions between tracks, creating an immersive experience for his audience. He often includes works from emerging artists, showcasing his support for the broader dance music community.
HOZHO is focused on releasing new music and continuing to tour the world, all while working on future projects. His love for creating unparalleled music and his ability to evolve while staying true to his Melodark roots suggest a promising future. As he continues to create and inspire, HOZHO remains as a staple in the music scene, celebrated for his distinctive sound and profound artistic vision.
