Name: Amnesia Ibiza Opening
Start: 2022-05-21T18:00:00.000+02:00
End: 2022-05-22T12:00:00.000+02:00

Italy

Marco Faraone

At 34, Italian DJ/producer Marco Faraone has both the youthful energy of his "little raver" days falling in love with electronic music at Tuscany's Tenax—where he cut his teeth with his first residency at 23—and the expansive catalog and perspective of a seasoned vet.


He wants the kids to know that super high BPM dance music they're calling hard techno is actually hardcore or gabber. While he's experimented with many styles of electronic music himself, often falling somewhere between techno and house, he is passionate about setting the record straight about the current confusion around techno, particularly because of social media.

"When people started going faster, I stuck to techno with a good vibe and groove. Groove needs to be there. Techno isn't only bass and kick," he asserts.




Yet experimentation and exploring a wide range of sounds within and across house and techno is core to Faraone's diverse sound. "I feel like it's creative to challenge yourself to make something different… I want to surprise myself first," Faraone says. Maintaining the element of surprise has allowed him to showcase his unbounded vision of techno and house on disparate labels, including Drumcode, Rekids, Desolat, Defected, Ovum, Filth on Acid, and his own UNCAGE imprint.







Not that he's done exploring and pushing his creative boundaries by any means, but he feels he's tapped into almost all the sounds he's wanted and is proud of his catalog. He even impressed legendary New York DJ Danny Tenaglia—a personal hero he's been listening to since the beginning—with the breadth of his sound.

"During the pandemic, [Danny] was like 'Marco, send me some music. I'm rebuilding my sets for when we start to play again, so I'm collecting as much music as possible from all my friends and the artists I like.' I sent him a folder with 300 released and unreleased tracks, everything of mine. He responded, 'Marco, I'm surprised by the big range of music and different styles you have produced. I went through all these tracks and they are all different from each other. Your musical spectrum is so large; it's really surprising to see an artist doing all these kinds of music.' This is just what I love to do," the "Hey DJ" producer reflects proudly.




He's most proud of his more experimental productions, including his 2020 album No Filter on Rekids, which he sees as his best music, the ambient-leaning album HOPE with reporter Ian Urbina, his most challenging project to work on, and the Our Freedom four-tracker on Drumcode, which he spent almost a year on, perfecting its intricate sound design.




Faraone relocated from Italy to Barcelona in 2018 and immediately felt at home. "Spain in this moment is on fire! It's amazing. They have so many great festivals, so many amazing events. It's a pleasure to play in Spain. The productions, the vibe, the people, the energy is unique," he exclaims when asked about the electronic scene in Barcelona. It's important to him to live in a city that exposes his joy and reflects his positivity and friendliness. He's found that there and feels it's reflected in his music.

"[Barcelona] is a city where you can grow artistically," he asserts. His favorite club in Barcelona is Input, where he'll be doing an UNCAGE showcase on June 13, during the upcoming Sónar Festival, with Alan Fitzpatrick, Avision, and a surprise special guest. He also loves Pacha Barcelona and the Brunch in the Park party series. And during the summers, he lives just across the Mediterranean Sea in Ibiza.




Ibiza has changed a lot since he first visited 15 years ago. The rising costs have priced out many potential visitors, making it difficult for big clubs to consistently draw the massive crowds they need to survive. "Big clubs are suffering. We miss the ravers!" he says. Some have adjusted by catering to VIP clientele, but not Amnesia, his favorite on the island.




"Amnesia is the one that's stayed true to its roots. I've loved it since I was a little raver. The terrace is the same as it's always been. Every place in Amnesia reminds me of a moment, that's why it's special to me. They keep it real," he says with a smile.

In his view, the change on the island isn't necessarily for better or worse. It has positives and negatives, and everyone must make the best of it. Yet because of the shifting audience base and the need to get people in the door, he feels, "You can't play a super crazy underground set in Ibiza." But at Amnesia, you can still catch that old-school Ibiza rave energy.



You catch him regularly at Pyramid, Amnesia's stacked Sunday series, and guest slots at other artists' Amnesia residencies, including Jamie Jones' Paradise.




Soon, he'll return stateside for shows in Los Angeles, San Diego, and New York—at Brooklyn's Knockdown Center for a Gray Area-hosted open-air with Will Clarke on June 9, which he's excited for. "I try to do different sets depending on the party and city, it's always different. I try to put myself there."

UNCAGE is the perfect platform to showcase his expansive sound. He's building a sonic universe alongside a select group of artists. For him, making music still feels like a hobby, and he spends six to eight hours a day in the studio. He also listens to every demo sent to him, totaling about 300-400 tracks weekly. He's proud of how many new artists they've signed "from scratch," giving them a space to showcase their vision of dance music.




"We've discovered some great talent," he says proudly, adding: "I appreciate when people keep sending us music after we sign them…the way to build a career is to believe in your project." He finds it disappointing when artists forget their roots and the people that helped them get to where they are when they make it big, instead always reaching for bigger and better. It's gratifying to do multiple releases with the same artist and be a part of their continued growth.




Speaking of roots, Faraone's are very much at Tenax in Florence, the club where he fell in love with dance music as a teen, realized he wanted to be a DJ, and had his first residency. "Tenex is a club where I really discovered the beauty of electronic music," he says with admiration. "[It's been around] 40 years and is one of the most legendary clubs in Italy. And I can say about Tenax almost the same things I said about Amnesia; they've always maintained their roots, their name, the credibility, the quality."

One of his first releases was on Tenax Records in 2008, which was one of the most prominent Italian house labels at the time. This was a huge dream come true then and still provides him with a sense of awe. He had a second release on Tenax in 2017, the Horizon EP, which featured a remix of "Double Faces" by Chicago house queen Honey Dijon.


"It was like going to school. For me, every time I was going to Tenex, musically I was learning something. I was coming back home with something; with a moment, with a track with some inspiration," he reflects. "I was coming back home sitting in my studio in the garage at my parent's house and I was literally spending my entire day making music with the inspiration I was taking from my old time ravey days at Tenax."



And Tenax is still home to him, the club he most looks forward to playing every year. He started as a warm-up DJ there back in 2012, and it formed the foundation for his dancefloor education. Now he gets to play six-hour sets there.

"I can't wait to be back. Every year I play in this club and every time it's like Christmas, it's like my birthday. I can't express the feeling. It's a place where I go and all my friends are coming to party all together. It's a party for a huge big family."




The first records that got him excited about dance music include Jaydee's 1993 classic house anthem "Plastic Dreams," which was the first electronic track he bought on vinyl, secondhand, from a little record shop in his hometown of Lucca. Another one of the early dance records he bought and loved was a popular Italian dance—the national rave sound big at the time—track, "Emergency 911" from Prezioso featuring Marvin. He recently sampled this record on a track that should be coming out soon, bringing his early Italian influences to 2023. Laurent Garnier's 2000 horn-led house gem "The Man with the Red Face" and Paul Woolford's 2006 earworm featuring Bobby Peru, "Erotic Discourse"—which got him up to techno and opened his perspective of electronic music—are also among the tracks that had a profound and lasting impact on him.




"15 years ago, I was so happy when I bought this vinyl ['Erotic Discourse'] and was playing it. [Now] I'm playing with this guy. Man, life is crazy. Music is magic!" he gushes of his recent B2B with Woolford at Amnesia's 2023 season opener.




While he's already checked off many items on his DJ bucket list, there are still a few others he has his eyes on, including playing Detroit's legendary Movement Festival and doing a B2B with his hero Laurent Garnier.




"Laurent Garnier is my favorite DJ. He is an artist that has been supporting me a lot for a long time, reacting to every promo we send from the label and all my tracks. Laurent Garnier is the fucking man! He replies to every email I send him; he's a real gentleman. Besides the respect I have for him as an artist and as a DJ, I really respect him as a person. So, it would be a huge honor for me to share the decks with him one day," Faraone says with a big smile.




Above all, he really just wants to "forever be able to make good music" and keep being happy with what he's doing and staying true to what he loves to do.




"There is no festival, no gig, no back-to-back, no track, nothing that can be more important than [being] happy with what you're doing. If you're not happy what you're doing, it's better you stop and you leave space for people that are happier than you because this is what people read in your eyes. They read in your eyes if you are lying, or if you enjoy what you're doing, if you're communicating your message with the music, or if you are just doing something for money or hype. It's always important to stay true to yourself and to maintain this is the most challenging part," Faraone implores.






Caprices Festival has transformed from a multi-genre event to one of Western Europe’s most popular destinations for electronic music, taking the profile of its Swiss homebase and resident DJs with it. We caught up with one of them, Giorgio Maulini, during the event’s 20th anniversary to learn more about the rich history of the mountain-top gathering and where it’s headed in the decades to come.





Getting a music festival off the ground is a lot of work. Keeping it there for 20 years is a much rarer feat, but Switzerland's Caprices Festival is one such success story (it also takes the phrase “off the ground” quite literally — after all, its mainstage sits some 2,200 meters high in the sky!)



But the mountaintop Modernity Stage that Caprices is best-known for these days wasn’t always the main attraction. Even electronic music served as somewhat of a side note back when the gathering first took shape two decades ago.



In the 70s and 80s, Crans-Montana — the stunning resort town that Caprices calls home — was popular among luxe travelers who favored ski-sports, Alpine spas, gourmet cuisine, and other high-end experiences. By the 90s those thrill seekers had moved on, taking a bit of the sparkle with them. That’s when Caprices’ founder, Maxime Léonard, got the wild idea to kill two birds with one badass party. His festival would not only satiate his desire to perform before a wide swath of discerning music lovers, but it could also be the gem that put Crans-Montana back on travelers’ must-visit lists.



In 2003, he brought the inaugural edition to life, right in the heart of town where visitors also had a front row seat to Swiss Alps’ jaw-dropping vistas. In the early years, Caprices welcomed seminal acts from across the musical spectrum including Radiohead, Cypress Hill, Lou Reed, and Bjork. With lineups as stunning as the surrounding landscapes, Leonard’s brainchild achieved its desired effect — people poured back into the vibrant mountain town in search of tunes and good times. 



To most, the event’s unique variety was a unique selling point. But it’s impossible to please everyone. “I fucking hate that techno shit,” the rockstar Iggy Pop spouted in a now famous news clip captured ahead of his performance at Caprices’ 2007 installment. He was less than stoked, sandwiched between two electronic acts. It’s safe to assume he has strong words about what the event looks like today, too. Despite defiant headliners, there was no stopping this cable car — Caprices stood destined to evolve.



You don’t see us complaining — we can respect The Godfather of Punk without sharing his hot take. It never became the popular opinion. By the time Iggy rocked out in Valais, Caprices had already cemented itself as a mecca for rare house and techno performances.



“About 12 years ago at 7 AM, we had a spontaneous idea with Sonja Moonear, Guillaume Coutu Dumont, and Luciano to take the speakers on to our shoulders into a gondola and organize an afterparty up the ski slopes for about 30 people,” Leonard shared in a 2020 interview with ND World. “The following year we did the same with Ricardo Villalobos playing back-to-back with Luciano for a couple of hundred people and after that we decided to build a proper stage for a few thousand people 2,200 meters up the Alps.”



And voila, the glass-enclosed greenhouse now known as the Modernity Stage was born. This April, the aforementioned duo returned on weekend two of the event (April 14-17th) to unleash their now annual b2b marathon. It’s a tradition and throughline that’s helped paint the picture of Caprices’ steady transformation (and one that would probably have Mr. Pop cursing loudly under his breath — this is techno at its finest.)



We didn’t experience that hallowed performance ourselves because we went all in on weekend one (April 7th - 10th.) Still, we witnessed how Caprices’ organizers take clear steps to pay homage to the festival’s rich roots. Sure, we caught bpm-ripping sets from acts like Adriatique, BLOND:ISH, and Arodes whose soundprints veer between melodic and positively pumping, but acts like German vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Monolink, as well as Satori and WhoMadeWho, the Copenhagen-based trio that brought their club-adjacent hybrid-live set, integrated plenty of analog elements in their playa tech-tinted performances. We even had a chance to catch Leonard’s electro jazz-leaning band, F.O.E. (Live) ahead of Jamie xx’s garage-fueled stylings on Saturday night, a slot progression that rather poetically linked Caprice’s past with the present.



The Festival’s residents do a good job of telling Caprice’s growth story, too — take house producer Giorgio Maulini, for example, who’s been on board with the event for more than half its history. He arrived in Crans-Montana 12 years ago while playing in the 2nd division Danish football league, and after receiving a better offer from a local team, decided to stay. Today, he’s living his best life as a ski instructor and one of Modernity’s familiar faces.



“My life has always been very linked to sports at a high level of performance, and I have always been crazy about music,” he shares of the duality of his career. “I never thought I would find a place where both activities melted together as well as here in Crans-Montana. It’s like Yin and Yang, I suppose.”



What started as a job constructing the Modernity Stage (“hard manual work” as he puts it) eventually paved the way for Maulini to become one of the company’s beloved residents. “Everything felt very natural as it was supposed to happen,” he says with gratitude.



He closed out this year’s Sunday night “after glow” party in the intimate club stage that sat tucked away behind the main daytime venue, adorned with disco balls and filled with beats, offering a more relaxed alternative to the always packed main stage where acts like Black Coffee, Bedouin, and YokoO unleashed a mix of soulful and introspective grooves.



“Many things have changed — styles of music, location inside Crans-Montana, size of the events, staff members… but somehow the feeling that it evokes [among] its attendees never has changed,” Maulini shares of Caprices’ inspiring energy. “People here are happy, excited to be together in such a breathtaking part of the world and being able to share moments in a collective state of mind.” He says this shared consciousness is what makes Caprices improve year after year.



“Something that I always admire is the architectural configuration of the festival which allows the attendee to find zones or spaces where they feel safe and comfortable,” he continues. “The same thing happens with the artistic direction and hand picking the right artists to create the perfect musical journey and vibe that will fill up these spaces with the right sound.”



He’s certainly right about that — by day, fashionable friends sip drinks amongst the clouds. At night, they take the gondola to the bottom of the slope for a proper multi-stage rave. There they can immerse themselves in melody, live stylings, or psychedelic journeys that names like DJ Tennis or Ryan Crosson and Shaun Reeves of Visionquest are uniquely equipped to deliver. Caprices has all the bases covered. It’s adopted the same choose-your-own-adventure mentality of its hometown, it seems.



Maulini also recommends checking out slopes like The Glacier of the Plain Morte, Le Grand et Petit Mont Bonvin, Les Faverges, and all of the Aminona backcountry upon a visit for a deep dive into Switzerland’s most picturesque points.



Thank God Caprices’ participants are fully committed to a “never stop exploring” mindset, because next month there’s a new edition kicking off in Marrakech, Morocco (May 12-14, 2023) featuring performances from techno and house stalwarts like Archie Hamilton, Âme, and Cassy. Stephan Bodzin and Mathew Jonson, will bring their live sets to keep that long-time offering center stage.



When we ask Maulini what’s in store for the next 20 years, he answers without hesitation. “I have no doubt that it will still look great — we’ll probably be trying to expand this ‘know-how’ and good vibes all around the globe but always in breathtaking locations very close to natural wonders — we will have to stick around to discover what’s coming up.” In that case, count us in.



Follow Caprices on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook





















Still on Top: Caprices Festival Brings 20 Years of Style to Crans-Montana

Ahead of his exclusive 3-hour set coming up in June on the rooftop of Superior Ingredients NYC, we sat down with London based DJ/Producer Archie Hamilton to delve a little deeper into his musical influences, pivotal career moments, and the future of dance music. 

How did your passion for dance music begin, and what were your earliest influences in the genre?


My mum and aunt were ravers in the 80s and 90s, so I used to go to a few free parties, raves, and festivals as a kid. I was into the culture from a young age and used to hear a lot of acid house and jungle from my mum’s tape packs she’d play in the car. Then I got more into UK Brit pop and rock like Oasis and Blur in my early teens—probably trying to be rebellious! Then when films like Blade and The Matrix came out, I got right back into electronic music.




Can you share a pivotal moment in your life or career that significantly shaped your sound and artistic direction?



There have been a few for sure, but the one that always sticks in my mind was being at fabric room 1 at 6 am and hearing Octave One “Blackwater.” I remember thinking there was nothing else on earth I wanted to do other than play music like that.

What is your creative process like when producing a new track, and how do you stay inspired?




I get inspired when I hear other great music, so I would say that referencing is a really important part of the process for me. It could be any genre, instrument, or vocal—that always seems to be my starting point. From there, I generally let tracks take on a life of their own (within reason). So, they often start in one style and end up in another.




How have your personal growth and experiences influenced the evolution of your music over time?




My experiences have really shaped my music. I have been lucky enough to have traveled to so many places that have really informed my style. And I like to play all kinds of styles, so I enjoy switching things up for different crowds. With regards to the studio, I guess you could say the same, although the common denominator always has to be the groove. Artistic evolution is important, and I have been lucky that mine was well received.




What challenges have you faced in the music industry, and how have you overcome them to build a successful career?




I find it tough to stay on top of the marketing side of things. It’s not something that comes naturally to me; some artists are amazing at it. I wish I could just make and play music, but fans want more than that. And I get it. I like knowing about artists’ stories too!




Can you tell us about a memorable collaboration or project that pushed your artistic boundaries and had a lasting impact on your work?




My new record on Defected is something really different for me. It’s a classic vocal house record which I have always wanted to make. The moment I heard HQA’s voice, I knew exactly what I wanted to do, and I am so happy with how it turned out. The vocal she delivered was so amazing that I felt like I had to do more than just the original version, so I chopped it up and made the dub which is a more stripped-back garage rework.




What role do you think dance music plays in connecting people and fostering a sense of community?




It’s been incredible for me personally. I would say that 90% of my closest friends are people I know from clubbing. I think we’re all lost souls, and we find each other and connect through music. It’s especially important in this day and age. The world is a pretty scary place right now, and we need community.










What advice would you give aspiring dance music artists looking to make a name for themselves in the industry?




Just be yourself in every sense. Authenticity is so important. If people don’t like you or your music, so be it. And I would also say be kind to everyone you come across. From the driver to the promoter to the glass collector, you never know what they may end up doing in years to come!




How do you envision the future of dance music, and what trends or innovations do you think will shape the genre in the coming years?




I think AI is going to change everything! It will make music production accessible to anyone. It may also mean that less people will actually learn music theory or production because they won’t need to, which would mean that more music would be written by algorithms and less by actual humans. It’s going to be interesting, for sure.

From Childhood Raves to Global Grooves: An Inspiring Journey of Archie Hamilton

The Acid House Revival

Archie Hamilton was raised in a household with rave-loving parents who immersed him in the dance culture of the 80s and 90s. One day, while listening to his mum's old acid house and jungle tapes, Archie decided to pay homage to his roots by blending classic rave sounds with modern electronic elements. 

The result was a new sub-genre that brought the rebellious spirit of acid house back to life, sparking a massive revival and connecting a new generation with the sounds of the past.

Fabric Room 1

Archie's life changed forever when he found himself in Fabric's Room 1 at 6am, listening to Octave One's "Blackwater". The experience ignited a burning desire to pursue a career as a DJ and producer. Years later, Archie played the same iconic track at the club that had inspired him, and in that moment, he knew he had achieved his dream.

The Groove-Driven Journey

Through his travels, Archie Hamilton was exposed to a wide array of music styles, which he eagerly incorporated into his own productions. However, his constant pursuit of the perfect groove remained the common thread that tied his diverse sounds together. 

As his career progressed, Archie continued to evolve as an artist, experimenting with new styles while never straying far from the groove that defined his music.

The Making of a Vocal House Classic

When Archie collaborated with singer HQA, he finally had the opportunity to create the classic vocal house record he had always dreamed of. As they worked together, the chemistry between them was undeniable, resulting in a track that exceeded their wildest expectations. 

The success of their collaboration not only pushed Archie's artistic boundaries but also solidified his place in the dance music world.

AI's Impact on the Dance Floor

As AI began to revolutionize music production, Archie Hamilton contemplated the potential consequences of this new technology. Despite the opportunities it presented, he worried that AI-generated music might eventually overshadow the work of human musicians. 

Determined to preserve the authenticity of the genre he loved, Archie spearheaded a movement to preserve the human touch in electronic music, ensuring that the future of dance music remained rooted in the passion and creativity of its artists.

Five Inspiring Moments in Archie Hamilton's Journey

Bristol-born Daniel Pierce has been making fun and playful dance music rooted in house and '90s UK rave sounds as Eats Everything for over a decade now. He cut his teeth in his hometown's legendary local scene, but was considering quitting after a decade of things not taking off outside of Bristol. Luckily, in 2011, his aptly titled "Entrance Song" changed everything. 

He's maintained close creative relationships and friendships with the likes of Catz N' Dogz, Green Velvet, Pete Tong, and Justin Martin. And with his long list of contemporaries, collaborators, and mates, he continues to push the boundaries of house, tech house, and dance music.

Read on to get a tasty sample of his sound, and groove out to seven of his best upbeat and playful tracks from over the years.



1. Eats Everything - Entrance Song (2011)

Boy, did Pierce introduce himself with 2011's "Entrance Song"! He was a decade into his DJ career and was about to hang up his headphones if things didn't finally expand beyond Bristol. But Catz N' Dogz signed "Entrance Song" to Pets Records and the rest is history. It's an entrancing, smooth garage-y track that still sounds fresh. It took the global dance scene by storm, including Pete Tong, who invited him for an Essential Mix.



2. Catz Eats Dogz - Evil Tram (2013)

Peirce's relationship with Polish house duo has continued to this day, and in 2013 they formed the collab trio Catz Eats Dogz and put out the Stinky Lollipop EP. The A-side, "Evil Tram," is an upbeat classic house bop with pretty looped vocals and strange, enticing little flourishes. It's the perfect taste and stew of each act's sound.



3. Eats Everything, Tiga, Audion & Ron Costa - Dancing (Again!) [2015]

"Dancing (Again!)" is one of those dance floor earworms that will never leave your psyche. And when you hear it, you have to dance. It's a pure heater with a fat bassline; killer collab between Eats Everything, Tiga, Audion (a.k.a. Matthew Dear) and Ron Costa.



4. Eats Everything & Green Velvet - The Duster (2016)

Green Velvet is one of the OGs of making infectious, strange and playful house gems. He has also been a big supporter of Eats Everything, dropping his tunes on his Relief Records and Cajual Music imprints as well as collabing with him over the years. On 2016's "Duster," dropped on Disclosure's Method White imprint in 2016, Peirce and Velvet pair up an echoing, building tech-ish house heater.



5. Eats Everything - Honey (2020)

Calling Miss Honey! On Peirce's 2020 anthemic tech house banger "Honey," he samples '90s New York drag queen Moi Renee from her 1992 house track "Miss Honey." You'll recognize her voice from Beyoncé's RENAISSANCE, which was also sampled on "Pure/Honey." Both tracks honor house's Black, queer roots.



6. Nicole Moudaber & Eats Everything - Big Dipper (2021)

While Eats Everything's sound is rooted in house and '90s British rave music, it is truly wide, expansive, and unafraid to expiriment and work with artists that pull out a different side of him. Nicole Moudaber is known for banging techno, and her track with Peirce feels different from her solo releases, as well as from his. Yet just as the cover art creates a cyborg from the halves of their faces, the track does sound like something they would both play in their sets; banging high energy and 100 percent made to make you dance and have fun.



7. Eats Everything & ShezAr - Get Up (2023)

Pierce has had joyful disco-leaning house and gospel house moments throughout his career, channeling that euphoric energy of '90s diva-era house records. On his first release of 2023, ShezAr lends big, inspiring vocals to a sparkling piano house belter.

A Buffet Of Eats Everything's 7 Best Tracks

In 2011, Eats Everything released his breakout track, "Entrance Song." The Bristol-born-and-based producer was a decade into his career and getting ready to call it quits if things didn't finally take off more sustainably. Luckily for him—and us—they did, with "Entrance Song" getting signed to Catz' N Dogz's Pets Records and play from many DJs he admired, including Pete Tong and Justin Martin.


Since Eats Everything's international presence began, Martin was a fan and a supporter, and a lasting friendship soon followed. After admiring each other from across the pond, they B2Bed a few times and felt their creative chemistry. Their first IRL interaction may have been at their B2B set during a 2012 Dirtybird party in Bristol. Also in 2012, Eats delivered a stellar, angular remix of Martin's "Ruff Stuff" from his debut album.


In 2013 and 2014, we saw a string of collabs between the jovial pair, beginning with the Feather Fight EP on London's Hypercolour Records in February 2013.





Then came their collaborative debut on Dirtybird Records, "The Gettup," in June 2013. Ahead of its official release, the heater was, as Eats told Billboard Dance in 2013, got "absolutely rinsed" in England. "The cross-section of people playing it is quite astounding. You've got, like, Crookers, and then you've got, like, Jamie Jones," he added.


"After a few times playing together, we realized that this chemistry was too good to waste, and now we are just working on bigger and better projects together," Martin told Billboard. "For me, it's really fresh and exciting, and I feel like the possibilities are endless.


The key is having fun and trying to really be creative. It's cool to be inspired by other music, but when creating, you have to do it your own way. We just set out to make stuff that will be fun to play and different to the people listening on the dancefloor. We don't want to make a track that sounds like everyone else's song, we want to make music that people instantly know is ours when they hear it."


And that they did! "The Gettup" was followed by their Hello Mr. Jello EP on Dirtybird in 2014, all of which fit sonically with what was popping off on Dirtybird at the time, yet felt entirely different. Their tracks brim with layers of strange sonic flourishes like airplane and car engine sounds, banging taiko-esque drums, or the rapidly ticking baseline on "Kong," the B-side of Hello Mr. Jello.





They've played a handful of B2Bs and continued to play each other's tracks over the years, but it's been quite a while since they've shared the decks. Thankfully, that will change on May 12, when they pair up for a special Doubleheader show in The Room at the stellar Superior Ingredients in Brooklyn. They'll each serve up solo sets and close things out with a B2B.

Justin Martin and Eats Everything: A DJ Brotherhood 

House-and-beyond heavy-hitters Eats Everything and Justin Martin first collabed a decade ago with the Feather Fight EP on Dirtybird Records. They've gone on to put out a string of collab singles and EPs, a few remixes.



This jovial pair definitely seem like brothers from across the pond. DJs who don't take themselves seriously, love to have fun, spread joy behind the decks, and produce and play a wide-range of dance music generally centered in house. Their sound and vibe definitely mesh well, but they've also made names for themselves thanks to their distinctive and always-hot sound.



Justin Martin was born-and-raised in San Francisco, and brings that free-spirited, loving energy to everything he does, especially his music. He was one of the first artists to release on Claude VonStroke's Dirtybird Records in 2005 when it first launched, and played an important role in sharing that early-aughts Bay Area rave energy with VonStroke and the beloved label.



Eats Everything was born-and-raised in Bristol, where he cut his teeth in the legendary club scene there in the early '00s. In 2011, he dropped the entrancing, smooth garage-y Entrance Song EP on Catz N Dogz's Pets Records, and the global dance scene took notice. His sound channels and adds to the eclectic, expansive British rave sound, with a penchant for wonderfully kooky club tracks. He's also brought the UK sound to Dirtybird as early as 2011.



Read (and listen on) for five of the best Justin Martin and Eats Everything collabs.



1. Eats Everything & Justin Martin - The Gettup



Released on Dirtybird in June 2013, this eight-minute heater has looped vocals, melodic piano stabs, handclaps, and a Dirtybird-certified bouncing beat. It's a slow burner that keeps you enticed as the elements of build on top of each other. "The Gettup" fits in with other big Dirtybird tracks at the time from the likes of Shiba San and VonStroke, but still feels unique and distinct from the rest of the pack



2. Justin Martin & Eats Everything - Feather Fight



The Feather Fight EP, released on London's Hypercolour Records in February 2013, was the first time we saw Justin and Eats Everything collabed on a track. The title track starts with a fun electro beat and slowly builds tension as it moves along. At about two minutes and forty seconds, the track breaks down into a groovy number, and picks up some distorted vocals. This is a real fun one, and is a great taste of the playful rave magic the duo can create together.



3. Justin Martin & Eats Everything - Steven Jello

"Steven Jello" is the A-side of Hello Mr. Jello, released by Dirtybird in March 2014. Fitting with its name, it’s wiggly and bouncy, with a bit of trumpet-esque action, sparkly percussion, and ear enticing sonic flourishes. Halfway through an echoing voice comes in to announce "you make me feel so good!" Agreed.



4. Justin Martin & Eats Everything - Kong

"Kong" is the other track on Hello Mr. Jello, and is also filled with intriguing sonic wonder. There are airplane and car engine sounds, banging taiko-esque drums, and more, over a rapidly ticking baseline. King Kong is ready for that daytime rave!



5. Justin Martin - Ruff Stuff (Eats Everything Reruff)







Surprisingly, the only official remix between the pair is Eats Everything's fun, angular edit of "Ruff Stuff," from the first remix package of Martin's debut 2012 album Ghettos & Gardens. The "Reruff" adds a bit more banging energy with a UK bass vibe and a frenzied alarm-like breakdown but leaves the amazing line from the original "This this this is that rough shiiii."

5 Brilliant Justin Martin & Eats Everything Collaborations

While much of the world recently celebrated another holiday season, the dance music community mourned. December 23, 2022, was marked by the devastating news of Faithless co-founder Maxi Jazz’s peaceful passing at age 65.



The British singer, DJ, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter first made himself known in the 80s club scene, DJing on pirate radio. His first group, Maxi Jazz and the Soul Food Café System, blended hip-hop with funk. He took that sound further when he formed Faithless with keyboardist Sister Bliss, singer Jamie Catto, and producer Rollo in 1995. Their hypnotic rhythms and his unmistakable vocal grew to levels of international acclaim as tracks like “God Is A DJ” became worldwide hits and pioneered dance group sounds.







The generational talent of Maxi Jazz and Faithless left waves of impact still felt by artists today. Today, we reflect on that impact by sharing Maceo Plex’s contemporary reimagining of Faithless’ globally recognized tune, “Insomnia.”



“Insomnia 2021” rewrites an anthem with a truly raucous twist. Maxi’s original vocals still command the will of the listener, only now warped with an ominous energy courtesy of Maceo Plex’s techno-tilted proclivities. Pounding percussion trades hits with jagged synths turning this tune into a spine-tingling carnal cut that will send even the most timid of dancers into a tizzy.



The passing of Maxi Jazz spurred a deluge of commemoration by artists and fans, including Armin van Buuren, Pete Tong, Boy George, and countless others. Jazz’s musical output and appetite spanned an impressive spectrum that only contributed to the scope of his reach in music. Hip-hop, however, was his first real muse.



In a 2017 interview, Maxi recalled, “When I discovered hip-hop, particularly Straight Out The Jungle by The Jungle Brothers, I realized I could make hip-hop, too, and write lyrics. Mike D and Afrika Bambaataa… their lyrics are playful, funny, intelligent and wise, and all that stuff I realized I could do. I realized there was a niche I could at the very least pop my toe into.”



Maxi Jazz is no longer with us, but his influence on music as we know it will not soon be forgotten.

Maceo Plex Reignites Faithless’ Global Hit with 'Insomnia 2021'

On Friday, December 9, 2022, Perry Farrell—Jane's Addiction frontman and Lollapalooza founder—debuted his new underground party series, Heaven After Dark, with Maceo Plex headlining. Heaven was brought down to the historic Los Angeles club Catch One, its four programmed rooms filled with house and techno. A troupe of lively dancers decked in creative, DIY looks, including cloud bras, neon rainbows, wings, and laser-lined gloves, pranced around the club, adding a fun dose of '90s rave energy to a black-clad mostly male, mostly not dancing crowd. Ahead of the event, Farrell chatted with the dancers and other organizers about what heaven means to them and encouraged them to take on characters, bringing the energy of live theater to the club.



Surprises included a cotton candy machine tucked downstairs to offer guests a sugar rush with a heavenly texture and, most importantly, Farrell singing and riffing along to Maceo's set.



While the underground surely showed up for Maceo, there were also a lot of people there for Farrell. "It's Perry fucking Farrell, you guys!" a girl exclaimed during the set, turning to her friends with a wide grin.



Before the event, we caught up with the rock legend to learn more about Heaven After Dark. He offered poetic musings on house music, house parties, money, heaven, and the divine.



"I love the affects and results of a great house party—I'm thinking late '80s, early '90s house parties. They were also very freeing, happy occasions, a chance for people to get together and sing and dance," Farrell said when asked about the inspiration for the new event series.



"As things develop in life and people see there's money involved in it, the character of the occasion starts getting off of its original intention. I mean, everything is always transcending—that's a good word to use for [Heaven After Dark]—music is transcendental, and some of the best transcendental music comes from house music. I see house music as a place to go to get away from the material world, it can be that."

He goes on to share that he used to play records in his backyard for friends in elementary school to cheer himself up and gather friends with dance and good music. To him, this is the essence of house music.

"I've seen a lot of money go into [house music]—I'm thinking about the agencies that represent the DJs. I've seen the DJ go from making $500 to $1000 to $100,000 and sometimes even more than that. There's nothing wrong with that. I think it's amazing that we honor these digital producers.

But like most things, when money gets in the way, you loose the spiritual elements of it. So with Heaven After Dark, I'm shooting for heaven. I want to have [on] earth a place where God exists amongst us. I'm trying to draw heaven down to earth with a house party."

Fittingly, the venue was Jewel Thais-Williams' house, (for years, she lived directly above the club in what is now its green room) Catch One. From 1973 to 2015, the club was Jewel's Catch One, named after its groundbreaking Black lesbian owner who served decades of local queer and POC communities. In 2015, she sold it to Los Globos owner Mitch Edelson, who kept much of the original club's signage and spirit, and it remains an independent venue to this day.

It's important to Farrell to support and work with independent venues, organizers, and promoters, as well as underground talent. And with Heaven After Dark, he has a vision to support underground dance culture in a vehicle inspired by house music's early days.

Before we moved on to the second question, the "Jane Says" singer asked to talk a bit more about money.

"We're all going to have to start looking at life sublimely. We're about to enter the era of sublimation and redemption. Even things we thought were evil, like money. If you really look at money sublimely, it could actually save the world," he muses. "We can do some really hateful things [with it], or we can take that money and help out the poor, the sick, the needy, which would make the world amazing.

In order to do this [event], I had to start from the purest place. It's not about money. It's about kindness, about heaven. So I'm starting the whole process with the underground dance culture, because there's not a lot of money there, but there sure is a load of inspiration and love and community. It's a perfect place to begin this fantastic journey."



Speaking of money, the ticket price for the event was notably reasonable, especially for one headlined by Maceo. The early bird tickets were $25, and a week before the event, the second release tier was still available, at $36, with the last tier topping out at $50.

One of the event's partners is an LA event brand inspired by Berlin afterhours, NXT Entertainment. It was founded in 2018 by local techno DJ MANTi, who was throwing down in the main room when we arrived. He passed the decks over to KCRW dance music champion and host of the beloved independent station's longtime Saturday night show, Jason Bentley.

Maceo came on a little behind schedule, around 1:30. The crowd packed in as Bentley kept the energy high with his stellar selections until he passed the torch. The Heaven After Dark dancers made their way through the crowd to the stage, dancing with the most enthusiastic of the revelers. A few tracks in, the "Solitary Daze" producer dropped his euphoric remix of the Chromatics' "Shadow," and soon after, Farrell made his way on stage to sing to the lovely Groove Armada remix of his track "Shekina," as the dancers shot their lasers from their silver gloves into the crowd. Perry continued to sing over Maceo's banging selects, including Maceo's official 2020 remix of Farrell's "Let's Pray For This World."



The pair clearly was excited to collab together live on stage. Farrell told us, "I hold Maceo Plex in high regard…his vibe is transcendental, positive, artistic, and there's a little room for me to get on there and throw some evocation out to the audience… I'm going to let my heart sing." And that he did. Maceo made a charming Instagram post with photos of each of them in the '90s and a caption reading, "Somehow this nerd crossed paths with rock royalty & legend @perryfarrellofficial."




At one point, Farrell echoed "May may Maceooo" into the mic while smoking. Legendary. During Maceo's 2020 track "Nu World," he sang, "It's going offff!" Facts. When I left a little after 3, with just enough energy to carefully stomp by disco platforms down the stairs and drive myself home, Perry was still going!




It's incredible to see a massively successful artist and event producer like Farrell share his resources and platform with champions of the local underground house and techno scene, along with an American king of the underground, Maceo. The event has a ton of potential, and Farrell hopes to collaborate with more talent and producers in other cities around the globe next year and throw more events in LA.




Catch One is a large space to fill. It would've been cool to see some fun art and decorations transporting the space to the heavens. Farrell says he's planning on working with local fine artists for Heaven After Dark, which will be fantastic to see.




Heaven After Dark was initially supposed to happen in 2020, so the first "beta" version ended up taking place in March 2022 at Los Angeles' Belasco Theater, a live music rendition with Farrell and his wife Etty Lau Farrell's Kind Heaven Orchestra performing. They loved connecting through music and performance with a much more intimate crowd, but Farrell explained it was too expensive to tour with the orchestra, so the underground rave version came to life. He posits that "The orchestra can change shapes, its transcendental," and he's thinking about working with local musicians as they take it around the world. He's also keen to bring conversation, important current events, and philanthropy into the events in a way that keeps things fun and mindful.




Heaven is the limit!

Perry Farrell on His Underground Rave-inspired Event 'Heaven After Dark' 

Techno DJ and producer Lilly Palmer grew up in a small town near Nuremburg, Germany. In high school, she struggled to fit in and found community with the metal kids. 



Palmer began to get a taste for dance music by age 17 as she found her way into local clubs, but it wasn't until she moved to Switzerland that she really fell in love with dance music. It was there that she got really into deep house, and later began DJing it herself.



"I was the outsider girl who was trying to make a lot of friends, but it didn't work. I ended up with metal friends, people that listen to death metal and rock. I felt super comfortable with those guys, so before I listened to techno, I listened to death metal and that was really fun," she told Gray Area with a smile.





Swedish band Arch Enemy was one of her favorites, and while she doesn't listen to metal anymore, but enjoys it when she hears it, along with the nostalgic trip it offers back to her teen years. Now, when she's at home or traveling, she listens to ambient music.



Palmer has been living near Amsterdam for four years now, and prior to that was based in Switzerland for six. It was there that she got much more into deep house, and later began DJing it herself. When asked which of the three locales has had the most impact on her sound, Palmer asserts it was Switzerland. She got her start playing deep house records at bars.



"My sets are sometimes still melodic," Palmer said. "But I just felt more and more that I had this energetic side in me, and that took over. I really like [deep house] still, and I would still go to clubs and listen to it. But now I prefer hard techno, even though a lot of people wouldn't consider my music as hard of techno as there is in Berlin. There, it's much harder than what I do."

And this is where the Spannung Records founder has found her sound, hard techno with intricate flourishes that hint at her love for melodic techno and deep house. And while she's found success in her DJ career with a steadily growing fan base, it wasn't easy finding support when she was starting out. In fact, she explains that most of male DJ friends ditched her when she began manning the decks, something she eventually figured was due to their unfortunate disapproval of her doing so.



"As soon as I started, I kind of lost all those male DJ friends who I had before," she told Gray Area. "So, I didn't have that support that a normal local male DJ has. He has his friends that are also DJs, that help each other, that give you a gig here, a gig there. With me, that didn't happen at all."

"I Was an Outsider Girl": How Lilly Palmer Went from Loving Death Metal to Deep House and Techno

When the COVID-19 pandemic upended everyone's lives in 2020 and made room on our calendars, many people tried out new hobbies and creative and professional endeavors. For German techno DJ and producer Lilly Palmer, it was the perfect time to start her own label, Spannung Records.

"In German, Spannung has two meanings. On the one hand it means voltage, and on the other hand it means tension," she told Gray Area in 2021. "I love this wordplay because tension can be either positive or negative. But it also reminds me of the job of a DJ—you're always under tension."

Adding another layer of meaning to the name, she met her boyfriend, Dutch producer Egbert, because of his track, "Electrify." Like many dance music producers' imprints, it began as an outlet for her own music, as well as that of Egbert, and also for their collaborations together.

In 2022, it's grown to include other techno artists' music as well, so far giving a home to works by A.D.H.S., Frankyeffe, and Warp Brothers. Since it's her label, Palmer is selective with what she releases on it, although she's very open to listening to anything she's sent.

In terms of what she's looking for, "It should be techno and I should be able to play it in my sets," she explained to Gray Area. "It can be less hard [than my music], it can be softer. Sometimes I have really melodic tracks to end the set. But in general, I would call it raw, underground techno."

The first release came in May 2020: Palmer and Egbert's timely rework of Warp Brothers' 2000 hard trance classic "We Will Survive." They transformed it into a spacey, acid techno heater. The most recent release came out in July, a speedy, frantic techno track called "Paranoize" from Berlin's A.D.H.S.

With Spannung, Palmer opts for single releases over EPs as she feels the second track tends to get overlooked, which is disappointing when you've put so much time and love into all of them. If she's going to release two tracks from an artist, she'd rather do two separate single releases than put them out together as an EP. This makes sense for dance music, yet it's somewhat unique to Spannung.

Keep an eye on Palmer and Spannung for more fresh, intricate techno tracks ranging from hard to melodic.

An Inside Look at Lilly Palmer's Techno Imprint, Spannung Records

German DJ and producer Lilly Palmer has fans around the globe thanks to her intricate, banging techno productions and immersive sets that take the dancefloor on a journey. She also loves playing in unique locations, often at sunset, sharing the sets on YouTube so fans can be transported on her techno airline, anytime, from anywhere.

Read on to watch five of the "We Control" producer's captivating DJ sets from interesting locales around the world.

1. Lilly Palmer by the Eiffel Tower in Paris (Tour Eiffel)





In the above video, witness Palmer deliver an hour of techno heaters from a Parisian rooftop at sunset, with a direct view of the Eiffel Tower. She opens the DJ set with a kinetic track from her partner, Egbert, along with Metodi Hristov's "Connect." Other track IDs include "From Beyond" by A.Paul and Dextro, "Interlinked" by Thomas Schumacher, and several of her own heaters, including "We Control," "Plasma," and "Aether." Rocking her signature high, sleek pony with a simple, all-black ensemble, she grooves and sways to the rhythm as she commands the decks. Impressionnante!

2. Lilly Palmer at nhow Rotterdam



Here, Palmer delivers another hour of entrancing techno against a gorgeous backdrop. She performs from a terrace or rooftop at the nhow Rotterdam hotel, with a stunning view of the Erasmusbrug bridge, the Nieuwe Mass river, and the Rotterdam skyline. She plays with the energy levels and BPM, keeping things interesting as the sun begins to set behind her. Track IDs include "Fryction" from Talismann, Marcal's remix of "Halving" by Lyric, "Raskolnikow" from Claas Herrmann, and, of course, a sprinkling of her productions like "Plasma," "Vertigo," and "Aether." In a fittingly euphoric moment as the sky turns orange, she closes the stellar set with her partner Egbert's "Finale," released on her Spannung Records.

3. Lilly Palmer in Bogota for Atonal



In this spring 2021 set, Palmer touches the clouds from a breezy Bogotá hillside armed with a puffer vest, dance moves, and USBs filled with pure heat. During this hour of driving techno hosted by Bogotá rave producer Atonal, the German techno champ drops Egbert and Metodi Hristov's "Euphoria," Frazi.er's "Temptation," her remix of Drumcomplex's "Atomic," The YellowHeads, Rebel Boy and Sam WOLFE's Detroit tribute, "Motor City," and Thomas Schumacher's "You Belong Here." Flanked by a gorgeous view of hilltops and Colombia's capital city behind her, Palmer proves her brand of techno belongs in many places.

4. Lilly Palmer at Delfins Beach Resort Bonaire



This set is a free trip to paradise, complete with the sound of waves crashing. Here, we find Palmer commanding the decks from the edge of a pier surrounded by the turquoise-blue Caribbean Sea. She starts things off with the synthy, melodic number from Stephan Jolk on Afterlife, "A Declaration of Love." The beautiful, watery setting is at the tranquil-looking Delfins Beach Resort Bonaire. The set continues on an emotive and moody journey, with the Adriatique remix of Matthew Dekay's "Heimreise," Fabrication's "Dustpig," and Gregor Tresher's "About A Good Place." To close, she selects Adriatique's "Home" with Marino Canal and Delhia de France as mother nature sends down a heavy sheet of tropical rain.

5. Lilly Palmer Kingsday session on a boat



Who wouldn't want to take a boat ride with Ms. Palmer as she serves up playful beats? Back in April 2020, many of us began aching for a loud, sweaty dancefloor as we perused Netflix for the millionth time. So, Palmer took a trip down the river and served up a fun and melodic set to give her fans a safe dose of rave energy. She opened the mix with Sam Shure's jingly "Mirage," into the Adana Twins' "Maoa." Other track IDs during the hour melodic techno cruise include Colyn's "Resolve," Khainz's "Next," and Avidus' "Engarde." As night begins to fall and the sun begins to set (all the moody sunset techno, please!) Palmer closes with Township Rebellion's "Magna Mater."

...Hey Cercle, we're ready for you to collab with Lilly Palmer so she can bring a techno journey to an extra special locale. 

Watch Lilly Palmer Serve Techno Journeys at the Eiffel Tower, a Rotterdam Hotel, and More

Amsterdam-based German DJ and producer Lilly Palmer has made a name for herself internationally thanks to her punishing hard techno productions and journey-to-the-underworld DJ sets. She put out her first release in 2015, an EP called Teaser, and has followed with a parade of banging techno on iconic imprints such as Adam Beyer's Drumcode, along with her own growing imprint, Spannung Records.

"In German, Spannung has two meanings. On the one hand it means voltage, and on the other hand it means tension," Palmer told Gray Area in 2021. "I love this wordplay because tension can be either positive or negative. But it also reminds me of the job of a DJ—you're always under tension."

She certainly plays with power and tension in her own original music. Read on to hear and learn more about five of Lilly Palmer's hottest techno tracks.

1. We Control

"We Control" is a rhythmic yet hard-hitting techno banger, released in February on Drumcode. The full six-and-a-half-minute version takes time to build up to its full power, twisting and turning through echoing highways littered with synths, kick drums, and a nearly unrelenting bassline. It leads a four-track EP of the same name, which hit #1 on the Beatport techno charts, and it is her first solo output on the famed techno label. Prior to that, she contributed "Amnesie" to their A-Sides Vol. 10 compilation album.

"The title track embodies a key-driven Motor City vibe before thrilling waves of jagged synths and ravey effects take the cut into brain-spangling bosh territory," as Drumcode eloquently and accurately described it.

2. Resonate

The Resonate EP is both Drumcode and Palmer's latest release, comprising three new techno singles led by the acid-tinged title track. "Resonate" is a euphoric, peak-time, driving techno heater-and-a-half that demonstrates what the Spannung head does best: moody techno bangers with ear-catching flourishes and simple, commanding vocals.

3. Temptation

"Temptation" is a stellar 2021 release on Palmer's own Spannung Records imprint. It's rhythmic and driving—and about a minute and a half in, it breaks out in a burst what I lovingly call synth farts, which always make an extra impact when you feel that bass through a big-ass sound system. This track will have you running your fasted mile and/or losing your mind on the dancefloor. I'll take both.

4. Aether

"Aether" is another 2021 track on Lilly's own label. It starts out a bit more muted—relatively speaking—and plays with tension and release as it ebbs and flows its energy levels. The track demonstrates the German artist's range, as well as her pension for always incorporating different sounds and effects to surprise and excite listeners. If you've only listened to the first minute of the "Aether," you really have no idea what you'll get across this epic, seven-and-a-half minute techno odyssey.

5. We Will Survive (Egbert & Lilly Palmer 2022 Rework)

"We Will Survive" is an amazing sample of Y2K Eurodance, a 2000 hard trance track by German duo Warp Brothers. Fittingly for 2020, Palmer and her boyfriend Egbert, a Dutch DJ and producer, revived the classic and transformed it into a spacey, acid techno heater. 



The original and the remix were definitely both retrieved from the same undiscovered rave planet, but the perfect rework subdues the '00s energy and transmutes it into a futuristic banger ripe to get the dancefloor going for many more years. It marked the debut release on Spannung Records, which also gave a home to a new track from the Warp Brothers in March 2022.

Rave on!

5 Techno Bangers from Germany's Lilly Palmer

Shermanology got their start collaborating with legendary EDM acts, creating hits like “Can’t Stop Me” with Afrojack and “Blessed” with the late producer Avicii. But, while they loved the energy of the crowds, Andy and Dorothy Sherman found themselves hungry for a deeper, more authentic sound all their own.




Andy Sherman speaks of this dichotomy, explaining, “the EDM period really gave us the chance to know what we stand for. The music we made at that time, we wouldn’t play it ourselves. We learned so much and we had so much fun, but we never felt it was ours. We always felt we had somebody else’s shoes on.”



Searching for a truer form of self-expression, Andy and Dorothy Sherman made the collective decision to go back to the drawing board and start over sonically. Andy focused his time on his production skills, teaching himself how to mix and master his songs in order to retain complete creative control over the music.




Dorothy felt the call to her father Tony Sherman’s origins, packing in influences from Motown, R&B, and soul while infusing this sound with the music of the Caribbean-Dutch heritage of their home Curacao.



Though it started as an uphill climb to re-shape the Shermanology project, the duo’s trajectory shifted when they caught the attention of prominent house producer and Hot Creations label head Jamie Jones.


After snapping a picture with Jones years prior at a festival in Holland, Andy Sherman reached out to him via email with the photo and a few of their newest demos.






Jones wrote back, enthusiastically wanting to sign all of the songs Andy shared. However, Andy had already signed the tracks to Rawthentic, but Jones supported the releases to show his interest in the fast-rising duo’s new sonic approach. Shermanology would later release their EP Bon Bini with Jones’ label in 2020, paving the way for their infectious brand of house music to take off into the inimitable act it is today.



How Jamie Jones Guided a New Direction for Shermanology

Modern music writers love to misuse the term “long-awaited.” In our current age of streaming and insatiable single consumption, it’s not often that a piece of music truly is so anticipated. I’ll argue that Archie Hamilton’s debut album Archive Fiction, on the other hand, was not only long-awaited but very much worth the long wait.




By the time he released Archive Fiction in 2019, Hamilton had already cut his teeth in the industry for nearly 15 years. He’d also been running three separate record labels, each dedicated to a subset of killer house music. During his performances at the most prestigious underground clubs in Ibiza and beyond, he was dubbed an original voice in the “new European sound.” When he finally released his debut album, he channeled a decade of mounting skills and a lifelong dedication to electronic music.




Hamilton was already making a name for himself with his minimal approach to deep house. Archive Fiction marked a cumulative milestone, an homage to his musical upbringing and his newfound influences. From lo-fi house and trip-hop to ’90s tech as well as drum and bass, this is the London producer’s legacy.




Supposedly, the ten tracks on Archive Fiction depict a life-changing night on the dance floor — of which Hamilton has had many. The atmospheric, psychedelic opening tracks “Six Years Later” and “Lifted” are the low-key, slightly hesitant moments when you first arrive. A quick change of pace comes with “Relax Your Body,” a rugged, jungle-tinged banger. This eventually leads you to a pivotal moment with “Make the Difference,” which features legendary New York producer Mr. V. Towards the end of the album, the aptly titled “A Little Lower” uses downtempo trip-hop to coax you back to Earth before the victory lap of “Quicksand” and “Waisted.”




As the only original full-length album in his discography, Archive Fiction is a treasure for any Archie Hamilton fan. It’s an album that shows his full breadth as a musician and his ability to transcend music from the dance floor and into your life.

A Look Back at Archie Hamilton’s Debut Album, Archive Fiction

Archie Hamilton has made a name for himself through his prowess as a master selector and producer, maintaining a distinct sonic identity over the years, and bringing a fresh take to the world of minimal house and techno.




Archie’s signature sound can overflows with vigorous bass lines, out-of-this-world synths, and builds that give his tracks and sets an ethereal atmosphere. His new Motion Lotion EP is coming out soon and he spoke to Gray Area about the inspiration behind it, and some tracks he is currently loving to play out.




“I got married in May 2022 and had some time off with my beautiful wife, and spent quality time with family and friends,” he said. “But once reality kicked in and the summer touring was in full swing, I was so excited to head back into the studio that this EP basically just wrote itself. I guess it was itching to come out.”



In spite of this highly anticipated release, Archie Hamilton was more interested in talking about music from (mostly) other artists. Below are five tracks he’s been rinsing during his performances across the globe.



1. Local Dub - Bestnotask [HOARDER, 2021]



“I love the futuristic sound of this EP, and this track in particular has an amazing effect on the dance floor: everyone locked into a groove together having an eyes shut moment,” says Archie. The idea of such an instant is emblematic of the Archie Hamilton sound. His selections have the tendency to put you in a trance and will allow you to simply relax, enjoy the beats, and let go as the hours slip away.



2. Space Bunny - Space Bunny [Surreal, 1997]

“All time classic for me, this one!” says Archie. “Super fun, groovy, and twisted with a killer acid line — definitely something for the early morning.” One could imagine Archie dropping this track as the night turns into morning during one his many iconic Club Space sets. The track has a genuinely alien feel, with NASA-inspired vocals, a trippy bass line, and a rapid drum pattern to truly suck the listener in.



3. DJ Life - The Pluck [Lobster Theremin, 2021]

“This track is such a trip — so funky and groovy, which is great on the dance floor, but it’s also really introspective,” says Archie. “Music for the head and feet.” Cascading synths truly make this track pop. The sounds bounce up and down, and left to right throughout the six-minute masterpiece. A simply contagious beat gives the listener a feeling of distortion and energy in all the right ways.



4. Mennie - Fusion [Denser, Forthcoming - September 2022]

“This has been smashing every set for me,” says Archie. “Pair a sick groove, some triumphant, ravey lead chord stabs, and a catchy vocal hook, and you’ve got a winning combination.” On the more upbeat side for Archie, the unreleased “Fusion” by Mennie carries tones of ’90s rave music with its upbeat lead and Fatboy Slim-reminiscent vocal sample. This is a track for any time of night: a perfect party starter, peak time banger, or even a funky, late-night interjection if the energy in the room is dropping.



5. Archie Hamilton - Motion Lotion [MircoHertz, Forthcoming 2022]

“Bit of self-promotion here, but I am really happy with this track from my new EP on MicroHertz,” says Archie. “The funky bassline that comes from nowhere halfway through the track always catches people pleasantly by surprise.”


The unreleased “Motion Lotion” is simply a defining track of the Archie Hamilton sound. A jagged, funky bass line permeates the arrangement, forcing you to bob your head as you try and understand all of the intricate sound design going on elsewhere in the dynamic range. As Archie himself says, the track continues to surprise as each time you get comfortable, a new synth or vocal lead jumps in.



What's In Your Rekordbox with Archie Hamilton

London-based DJ Archie Hamilton travels internationally to deliver astounding sets to fans worldwide. He spoke to Gray Area about some of the most memorable gigs of his career, and how one in particular took him to a Star Wars set.




In 2019 Hamilton trekked to Tunisia for an exhilarating and unforgettable performance. When he first arrived at the location, it was too dark to see anything. Once the sun came up, though, Hamilton realized he was playing on the set of the fictional Star Wars planet, Tatooine.







“Crazy venue in the middle of the desert,” he said. “When we got there, it was totally pitch black, so you couldn’t really tell, but then as the sun came up, all of a sudden these objects started becoming more clear.”




Hamilton knew the set for the fictional Star Wars land of Tunisia was located near the venue, but he did not quite know how proximal. “As the sun comes up, you’re like my god,” he continued. “I’m in the middle of Star Wars.”















Hamilton explained that the buildings surrounding the venue had marks just like in the Star Wars movies and made him feel like a character in the franchise.




In addition to DJing on Tatooine, Hamilton mentioned two other standout aspects of touring in Tunisia. He remembered the vivid image of the Tunisian citizens racing their SUVs, mostly Toyota Land Cruisers, up almost vertical sandbanks.




The second image he recalled was a cuter one. Sandy desert foxes prowled the land behind his set with perked, prodigious ears. Perhaps they wanted to attend the festival, too.




Telling this story prompted Hamilton to reminisce on other memorable shows in recent memory. “I think it’s nice to give support to the promoters out there and maybe give a shout out about what’s going on in that part of the world, because there are some seriously good parts over there,” he said.




On Saturday, August 13, Hamilton took to the middle of Egypt for a gig. He felt discouraged after a six-hour drive from Cairo, but admitted once he arrived at the venue, “I’m not joking, probably one of the top five gigs I’ve ever played in my life. The crowd was so good, and the venue was so cool.”




Hamilton continues to explore the world, discovering new favorite venues. As his tour pushes on, he will soon have new music to share with fans. His two-track effort, the Motion Lotion EP, comes out on September 2.






























Archie Hamilton on Performing on the Star Wars Set of Planet Tatooine

In the decade since Archie Hamilton’s DJ career fully took flight, he’s found himself playing bigger and bigger stages. For him, this means it’s important as ever that he makes time for more intimate gigs — and he calls upon the most famous DJs in the world to do the same.




“I play a lot of big stages, but I came from the smaller rooms with a more intimate vibe,” Archie recently told Gray Area. “For the big festival shows, it’s big festival music. But for example, I play Fabric on Saturday. I’m closing room one, and I just spent a month going completely mad digging up tons of records from the early ‘90s. That’s my real love.”




Archie Hamilton has managed to strike an admirable balance between these two worlds. On the recording front, his early tracks like “I Forget” and “Two Time” represent house music’s more minimal, experimental spectrum. Even his more recent crowd pleasers like “Kick It” and “Our Time” featuring Molly Green bear plenty of the gritty, intelligent hallmarks of his longtime sound.




When I first came to prominence, what we were doing in London was much more minimal,” Archie said. “We were playing very stripped-back music. That has now become much more popular, and I’m getting booked because of the notoriety I built up for that sound. But I’m getting booked on these big stages where I have to deliver a much tougher, bigger set.”




Archie was at pains to point out that he doesn’t mean to knock bigger sets, either. “I don’t wanna write off people who are primarily big festival DJs,” he said. “It’s really difficult to be successful as an artist nowadays, and if you have a team of people working on your brand, you do have to be business minded and take these bigger shows to bring in revenue and gain new fans.




“But no matter how big you get, stay true to your roots,” he continued. “In my calendar I try to have at least once or twice a month, one of those super cool shows, like on a desert island in the middle of a lake a few weeks ago put on by the people behind Sunwaves Festival. It was pretty much a friends and family crew, and that was four hours where I got to take them on a bit more of a journey.”




Archie doesn’t mince words when he says this is a call to other DJs. “Guys, we should all be doing these extended sets and reminding ourselves why we love what we do, still being connected to really digging deep and searching for music that’s gonna blow people’s minds,” he said. “That’s the emotional side, where so much of everything now is about videos of drops with everyone’s hands in the air. I think we forget why we’ve all gotten into this in the first place.”




As any music lover can attest, there’s nothing quite like losing yourself in the sensory overload of a massive festival. As you grow more embedded in dance music’s rich undercurrent, however, you might naturally find yourself in smaller and smaller rooms. Either way, you’re bound to run into Archie Hamilton — and chances are he’ll play the records you didn’t know you needed to hear.

Archie Hamilton: "No Matter How Big You Get, Stay True to Your Roots"

U.K. DJ and producer Archie Hamilton did not become a globetrotting act overnight. He founded Microhertz Records in 2009 and began releasing music after cutting his teeth as a DJ for many years — but it wasn’t until 2013 that he was able to quit his job in tech sales to pursue a career in music full-time.




Since he’s focussed all his energy on music, the hits have been many. From the darker tech house flavor of “Mind Blank” to the upbeat verve of “Kick It” to the singalong appeal of “Our Time” featuring Molly Green, Archie’s left an indelible mark on house music.




That’s not to discount his early music. Archie Hamilton’s early discography brims with quality releases and a distinct underground appeal that speaks to how refined his tastes were at the beginning of his career. Below are five tracks from that period that still hold up.




1. I Forget

Archie Hamilton inaugurated Microhertz Records in 2009 with the Introductions EP Part 1. His contribution to the effort was “I Forget,” a song whose smooth, resonant bass line was miles ahead of most music being released at the time. The EP was the first of many “focused solely on introducing fresh, young, creative producers to the scene.”




2. Two Time

“Two Time” demonstrated the versatility of Archie Hamilton’s inventive approach to sound design. An infectious groove suffused with organic percussive elements is punctuated every several measures by risers that give the track a psychedelic effect. Foley effects and reverb delays at the breakdown provide the listener an expertly timed respite.




3. Stathis Lazarides & Archie Hamilton - Monophonie

Stathis Lazarides pulled Archie Hamilton in a more experimental direction for the two artists’ collaborative Numbmania EP. Characterized by dense foley recordings and contemplative atmospheres, the 2012 record remains one of Archie’s most minimal to date. Of the three tracks comprising the EP, “Monophonie” has the closest thing to a melody.






4. Archie Hamilton & Patrice Meiner - Antithesis

Brooding and hypnotic, “Antithesis” by Archie Hamilton and Patrice Meiner goes through a series of novel changes throughout its seven-and-a-half-minute runtime. It appeared on a collaborative EP of the song’s namesake, marking the two artists’ first release together. It came out on Genial in 2013 and included remixes by Igor Vicente and Dubsons.




5. Stathis Lazarides & Archie Hamilton - Untold Drama

“Untold Drama” appeared on an EP of its namesake via Body Parts Records, marking the second collaborative EP between Stathis Lazarides and Archie Hamilton. It shows a refinement of Archie’s unconventional approach to sound design, along with a luminous synth that rings out intermittently for added ambience. This was the period in which Archie’s career took flight, and the inspiration is evident in the music he released at the time.



Early Archie Hamilton: 5 Cuts that have Stood the Test of Time

United Kingdom

Archie Hamilton

There is a delicate tightrope strung between the world of the DJ and that of the producer. Being a storyteller behind the decks and crafting the gems that connect to the dancers are two separate but equal talents. When both co-exist in harmony, it’s unique.




Archie Hamilton has spent years gracefully walking that high wire. His releases on venerated underground tastemakers like Cuttin’ Headz, Toolroom, Nothing Else Matters, and his own Microhertz imprint have ingrained his singular sound into the minds of clubbers worldwide. Deftly moving between minimal house, techno, upfront club cuts, and classics, he’s helped guide a new European sound while staying true to the roots of dance music culture.


Behind the decks, he’s intuitive and technical, leading dancefloors on expertly crafted journeys. Beyond his audio-visual experience Frequency, he’s a fixture at London’s legendary FUSE parties, establishments like fabric and Ministry of Sound, and a regular for brands like CircoLoco, elrow, and Music On.




It was almost a foregone conclusion that Hamilton would walk a path towards dominating dancefloors. He grew up in a home surrounded by a brilliant patchwork of music. His earliest musical memories were early flashpoints for the kind of musical adventures he would eventually lead the dancefloor on.




“My grandfather was a concert pianist. I have very vivid memories of listening to him play for hours and hours to whoever would listen,” he wistfully remembers. “And at some points it [was] totally psychedelic and trippy. You’d sit there in the afternoon and the sun would be going down. I was only like 9/10 [and] in this half, dreamlike almost asleep state listening to him play these incredibly complex pieces.”


He also credits his mother, a former member of a punk rock band, for establishing his love for digging through the crates. Her extensive record collection ranged from the Star Wars double-disc soundtrack to Lynyrd Skinner. She always encouraged his artistic growth and was the person who bought him his first set of decks at 14.




“I didn’t even ask for them. That’s the funny thing,” he explains with a smile as he recalls the beginning of his journey as a selector. “At the time she was she had a boyfriend and he was a rave promoter. And, and my mom was like, ‘You got to get into DJing it’s so cool.’ So, I just I had these decks, had no idea what I was doing.”




Despite being a novice, he had an ear for the compelling and unexpected mixes he’s become known for. “I was going out and buying garage records and breakbeat records and trying to mix them in with the stuff from [my mom’s collection]. I’ve actually got it recorded on tape. I managed to mix. Zed Bias “Neighborhood” (which was a garage anthem) with the Cantina Theme from Star Wars.”

He envisioned a career as a DJ. However, a less than encouraging teacher at a rigid school quickly eviscerated that dream. Instead, he was pushed to join the army because, as the teacher told him, he “didn’t have much going on.” In a twist of irony, the budding artist failed the Army hearing test five times.







So he went to university and, like most university students in the early ’00s, spent his weekends at raves and clubs, fully reigniting his love for dance music and DJing. Instead of going home for the summer during his second year in college, he locked himself in his dorm, learned to properly mix, and recorded tons of mixtapes.




While cutting his teeth in London’s DJ circuit, he learned to produce in his bedroom and never stopped clubbing. And while living down the street from 93 Feet East in the heart of Brick Lane in London, he became a regular punter at the legendary FUSE parties, which unknowingly helped kickstart his career.

“When I moved in, there was no excuse not to go pretty much every Sunday. And [I] just happened to be there once and someone was playing the track that I’d made a few weeks before. I went up and introduced myself.”




It was one of the first times he’d ever experienced hearing his music on the dancefloor, leading to him becoming a resident for FUSE a few years later. Almost by chance, that brief interaction with a DJ playing his music helped catapult his career into overdrive. In the years that followed, he started two record labels, performed at shows worldwide, and released records with top-tier record labels.




Among his most notable career highlights was his 2020 Essential Mix. Indicative of his live performances, he fully displayed his audio storytelling, leading listeners through the strands of his musical DNA.




“It was it was very exciting. It all happened incredibly quickly but it was a real honor. I tried to try to cram everything that I love into there. House, deep house, tech house, bit of old school, a lot of the new stuff. And then ending on Francoise K ‘Hypnodelic,’ which is one of my all time favorite records.”




Tracing his musical progression from listening to his grandfather playing psychedelic piano concertos in his living room to Archie throwing down genre-spanning extended sets at the world’s finest clubs and festivals, it’s easy to see how he became such a dynamic and well-rounded artist. Equally future forward and rooted in a rich history, he will undoubtedly continue to excite and enchant audiences.





















London-based house and techno DJ Archie Hamilton’s music is as distinguishable as his name. A permanent fixture on festival lineups, the UK selector, is known for producing some of the most illustrious house records in the last decade. His recently rebranded imprint MicroHertz is where you’ll find his latest original minimal-house releases and plenty of internationally sourced cuts—the best in alternative house and techno.




We’ve chosen five of our favorite Microhertz Records releases to give you a sampling of what the imprint has to offer.




1. Floog - Sepe Patru




The Bucharest-based artist—heavily inspired by musicians of the likes of Depeche Mode, Kraftwerk, Jean Michel Jarre, and Pink Floyd—began his career in the 90s by toying with a friend’s Roland analog synth and experimenting with the sounds on his computer’s production software. In the years that followed, Floog has honed his sound into one that’s distinctly his own. “Sepe Patru” is a deeply melodic tech house cut encapsulating his minimal approach to the genre while providing a uniquely immersive listening experience.




2. Archie Hamilton (feat. Molly Green) - Our Time  


“Our Time,” released in 2021, is an intensely euphoric house cut. With a winding bassline, resounding kicks, and jazzy, soulful vocals from Bristol-born songstress Molly Green, “Our Time” is essential listening for fans of Hamilton and the MicroHertz label.




3. Dos Equis - Archie Hamilton




Re-released on the label’s tenth-anniversary compilation, “Dos Equis” is sensual, trip-hop-infused tech house. Initially released in 2018, the song is a blazing dancefloor cut. Hamilton demonstrates his mixing prowess on the updated iteration. The track’s soundscape, while atmospheric, simultaneously drives listeners on a journey—syrupy vocal loops intertwine with organic samples to create one unforgettable tech house tune.




4. Toman - Guarulhos









This heady, synth-heavy release was one of three tracks unveiled by the imprint less than two years ago from Toman’s critically-acclaimed Feel for You EP. The Amsterdam-based DJ’s career took off in 2017 in a meteoric fashion upon the release of his debut via the revered Cyclic label. His second EP further cemented the prodigious talent, who would go on to perform at Awakenings, Straf_werk festival, and various venerated German clubs of the likes of Leipzig’s Distillery and Berlin’s Watergate.




5. Archie Hamilton, Benson Herbert - Swerve









Featuring meticulous production from Miriam Records label founder Benson Herbert, “Swerve” is an enchanting collaborative house tune between the two UK-based DJs. Herbert, a frequent fixture at numerous revered institutions Rex Club and fabric, had produced house music under a plethora of pseudonyms and stage names over the years. It wasn’t long until he began to take producing seriously—releasing projects on Hamilton’s label garnered him the support he was missing to launch his own label and establish his solo project.



5 Tracks That Define Archie Hamilton’s Microhertz Records

London-based Archie Hamilton has a palate that was heavily influenced by the sounds he consumed growing up in Wales and clubbing in London—The Prodigy’s discography was one insatiable obsession. House and trance records were another.



The minimal-house selector has over a decade of experience curating and creating dynamic techno and house records. Hamilton’s love for producing irresistible cuts over the years has led him to create two successful imprints—MicroHertz and Moss Co.—all the while performing at some of the most esteemed international festival stages and music venues of the likes of Circoloco, Parklife, Amnesia, elrow, and fabric.



We asked Archie to share five tracks that shaped and inspired his journey to becoming the acclaimed label boss and DJ we know today.



1. Leftfield - Storm 3000






Pick any track from this album, it was the soundtrack to my youth! Storm 3000 was an early intro into drum and bass for me, which I then got much more into when I started going clubbing in London. I remember constantly tapping the drum rhythm with my fingers in my classes at school, and getting lost in the pads when I walked home.




2. The Prodigy - Voodoo People









The Prodigy was my first electronic music obsession. The first three albums absolutely blew my mind—the energy is just unreal and I loved their personalities and the whole band aesthetic. Hard to choose a favorite from their catalog, but I chose this one because the video is so totally amazing!




3. Chemical Brothers - Chico’s Groove









I think Exit Planet Dust was the first electronic album I ever bought—I got it on tape from Woolworths (a now non-existent chain of stores that sold absolutely everything). Chico’s Groove really reminds me of driving ‘round the countryside where I grew up in Wales in the summer with my mum and cousins when we were kids. It’s got a really familiar and comforting feel to it.




4. Nalin and Kane - Beachball









I absolutely love this and still play it today. It hits that sweet spot between deep melancholy and joyful abandon. Soft M1 organ, loose percussion and the vocal is ace—so many fond memories of this record!




5. Three Drives on a Vinyl - Greece 2000









I went through a huge trance phase as a teenager—I think most DJs of my generation did. I could have picked a hundred tracks, but I think this has to be the winner.




The Tracks That Made Me: Archie Hamilton

elrow Far Rowest

Spain

Amnesia

The penultimate elrow of the season and one of their most famous themes, Far Rowest, is here. Step out of the Saloon and find yourself in Old elrow, the wildest town in the West. Party the night away with carefree cowboys and the can-can dancers. But, be careful! You don’t want to end up in the Sheriff’s jailhouse!



The team behind elrow will be pulling out all the stops to make sure that their season goes out with a bang, and that means starting the celebrations a whole week early!



From 11pm to 6am, discover the Far Rowest whilst some of the biggest names in house and tech house provide the soundtrack to what will be a truly unforgettable night. elrow residents Viviana Casanova and George Privatti will be joined by Melanie Ribbe, Will Clarke, and Marco Farone in the terrace, whilst the main room, named and themed as elrow City, will host just one DJ all night long; Archie Hamilton.



elrow are famous for their top-class production, wild performances, color, confetti and, above all else, oodles of fun! You won’t find anyone in the crowd without a smile on their face, all waiting for the next confetti cannon or inflatable drop. And once that happens - wow! The crowd will roar and Amnesia Ibiza will be more alive than ever before!



If you’ve not managed to make it down to an elrow yet this season, make sure you get your tickets early!



Terrace



Tuscan born Marco Faraone was influenced by his DJ father as he grew up and truly burst onto the techno scene after securing a residency at Florence’s globally renown Tenax club. Since, he has become one of the most respected techno DJs and producers in the world.







British DJ and producer Will Clarke not only has a distinct look, but a distinct sound that caught the attention of house and techno heavyweights when he started his career. Nominated as ‘Best Newcomer’ in 2016 at the DJ Awards, he’s now firmly established himself as a techno heavyweight. His releases on Drumcode, Trick, and his All We Have Is Now imprint have pushed him to the forefront of the genre.







From model to DJ, Melanie Ribbe passionate energy are the perfect match for elrow. Nicknamed the Angel of Techno, she’s no stranger to Amnesia Ibiza.







George Privatti became an elrow resident in 2013. He started DJing at 17, when he bought his first decks, and has played at some of the most influential clubs and festivals around the world.







Viviana Casanova joined the elrow family in 2019. Born in Chile, but now residing in Spain, her passion for music shows through her vibrant sets. Her personal style has developed over the years, mixing deep tech-house sounds with funk and hip-hop influences.







Main Room | elrow City



Producer, DJ and label owner Archie Hamilton has spent over 10 years rising through the ranks of the underground house and techno scene. No stranger to the White Isle, Hamilton has played iconic parties such as Circoloco and Music On, as well as Amnesia’s opening/closing fiesta in 2019 and their opening party in 2022. His distinctive sound and impressive skills as a selector mean that he can truly control a dancefloor, pushing 90s gems one minute and brand new tracks the next.







The incomparable Jamie Jones announced the return of Paradise in the Park back to Los Angeles. One of the many installments of his globally recognized Paradise parties.


Set against the dramatic backdrop of the DTLA skyline and soundtracked by impeccably curated beats, Paradise In The Park at Pershing Square will deliver an incredible electronic music experience in the heart of Los Angeles.




The lineup includes a blazing b2b from Dubfire and Art Department, stunning sundown set from Carlita that will transition the party into full-blown rave mode as we round out to the headliners. DJ Holographic and Airrica, making this party one that you'll want to arrive at right when the gates open at 4 pm PT.




The Paradise In The Park concept is being built out in partnership with LA-based production enterprise Future Primitive. Expect nothing short of a top-notch exhibition. Since the party's inception in 2017, this event has sold out and is expected to do the same, so do not sleep on snagging a ticket.


Tickets can be purchased here.




Jamie Jones Unveils Lineup for Paradise in the Park 

London-based DJ, producer, and label owner Archie Hamilton served up an hour of slick minimal house goodness for Gray Area’s OCHO back in December 2021. The accomplished artist recently launched his Frequency club event series in the UK, which offers attendees a unique audio-visual experience.







The latest Frequency party kicked off under the iconic railway arches of The Steelyard, London. It also featured Oden & Fatzo, Jaden Thompson, and more incredible acts behind the decks. The Frequency series continues this Bank Holiday Sunday at Mint Warehouse, Leeds, where Hamilton is frequently welcomed back with open arms.









The proud owner of Moscow Records and Moss Co., Archie Hamilton is a well-respected name in dance music both in the UK and abroad. He delighted fans worldwide with the release of his debut album, Archive Fiction, in the summer of 2019.

Now established in both North and South America, Hamilton is also an irreplaceable feature on the Ibiza circuit, performing at Circoloco, Music On, and the closing of Amnesia in 2019. He also was called upon in January 2020 by Pete Tong for a coveted spot on the Essential Mix for BBC Radio 1.

Keep your eyes peeled for Hamilton’s sets this summer at Music On Festival, Amnesia Opening Party, Baltic Weekender, and many more clubs and festivals across the globe.




Follow Archie Hamilton on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud

Follow Frequency Events on Instagram

























































Dive into Archie Hamilton’s Ultra Funky Mix for OCHO

Desert festivals might be some of the hardest to come by, and not just because those barren spaces are few and far between. Raving in 100-degree weather is just something that most people wouldn’t dream of, and it might seem even more improbable in such a remote location. So, why do ravers take to these arid sandscapes to dwell in the desert for days on end?

Despite the unforgiving environment, desert landscapes make for some of the best festivals in the world. Often without any towns or cities within earshot for miles, the lack of noise licenses allows for larger than average sound systems with no time constraints. Deserts also provide a completely blank slate meaning they can play host to any kind of creativity or blueprint, whether stages, art installations, or campsites. After dark, once the heat settles over the planes or dunes, it’s high time to let loose, and party as the dry daytime air subsides, creating the perfect starlit setting for any eager raver.

So, with that, let’s dig into some of the best desert festivals across the globe - and no, it’s not just Burning Man!




Monegros Desert Festival, Spain



We’re kicking off this list in Europe - an unusual spot considering the continent’s vast greenery. In the dusty region of Aragon, Northern Spain, a growing community sets up shop in the Monegros Desert, where the eponymous festival takes place. By day, festival-goers take shade under enormous fairytale-esque mushrooms, later lit up by trance-inducing lights transforming the space into a psychedelic oasis. Monegros Desert Festival is known for its prodigious lineup too. Promising one of the most exciting performances of the year as Wu-Tang Clan take to the stage in July 2022, accompanied by a slew of DJs including Adam Beyer, Charlotte De Witte, Seth Troxler, Maceo Plex, and more. This year’s event falls on July 30 for a full-frontal 24 hours.

Website | Instagram | Tickets







Transahara, Morocco



Over in the Sahara Desert, early summertime event Transahara kicks off this year on May 13th-17th deep in the barren zone amongst the “mythical dunes of Merzouga.” With a traditionally psytrance lineup, this South Moroccan festival is a great escape for fans of higher-tempo tunes. Yet, previous lineups have included house and techno artists whose soundscapes fit for the mystical desert environment like John Aquaviva, Nitin, Matt Caines, and D-Nox. Due to the fragility of the ecosystem surrounding the venue, the festival is capped at 1500 and accommodations in one of five hotels and camps nearby. Accommodations are quite reasonable ranging from $30-80 a night. Transahara beautifully fuses art, music, and culture for a grand celebration under the starlit sky every spring. 

Website | Instagram | Tickets




Burning Man, Nevada

Photo Credit: Michael Holden



Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without Burning Man. It might be the first one that comes to mind when you think of desert-based festivals, but many don’t know the full ins and outs of this unusual event. As thousands of people - 80,000 to be exact - make the pilgrimage each year to Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, festivalgoers land in the barren metropolis of Black Rock City surrounded by art installations, burning structures, adventurous outfits, and a heck of a lot of bicycles. Black Rock City doesn't have traditional stages, the music is instead hosted by sound camps that each add their own artistic aesthetic to the dusty environment. Soundcamps like the fire-laden Opulent Temple, Debouchaerous day party Distrikt, and Carl Cox led Playground have hosted some of the biggest names in house and techno, including Carl Cox, The Martinez Brothers, and Joseph Capriati.

Website | Instagram | Tickets




Ragasthan, India

Previously dubbed ‘India’s craziest music festival’, Ragasthan has a lot to live up to - and it does. The three-day camping event takes place in the medieval trading town-turned-desert of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, just off the border of Pakistan. Boasting a lineup of both electronic and indie music, India’s top-tier festival also includes cinema screenings and fly-by art on top of late-night DJ sets from the likes of Christ Burstein, Bemet, and more amongst the mystical landscape. Ragasthan takes place each year in February to ease away those winter blues.

Website | Instagram | Tickets




AfrikaBurn, South Africa



Burning Man's sibling festivals are called regional burns. Founded on the same 10 Principles of Burning Man (Radical Inclusion, Gifting, Decommodification, Radical Self-reliance, Radical Self-expression, Communal Effort, Civic Responsibility, Leaving No Trace, Participation, and Immediacy) they give the worldwide community a chance to relish in its spirit closer to home.

Afrikaburn is the second largest regional event after its sibling festival Midburn in Israel. And it's a worthy contender. Originally taking place on Stonehenge farm, AfrikaBurn later moved to South Africa’s Quaggafontein, where it sets up a similar event with the same ethos as Burning Man. The experiencial festival is said to be a ‘playground without politic’ bringing together the South African Burner community. This year’s event kicks off in the Western Cape province on April 25th until May 1st.

Website | Instagram | Tickets




Desert Daze, California



California’s Desert Daze Festival has consistently had one of the better lineups over the past few years in the arid, mountainous destination of Lake Perris. Though more a beach than a desert festival, this dry setting has previously hosted the likes of Floating Points, Boards of Canada, Flying Lotus, plus a few pop, rap, and rock numbers. Desert Daze takes place annually toward the end of the year to avoid peak summertime heat, but with a lake just metres away, there’s always room for a quick dip. Expect some more magic in the desert this year from September 30th until October 2nd.


Website | Instagram | Tickets




Sandbox, Egypt



Sandbox is a once-in-a-lifetime event taking place mid-summer. As the sun hangs low over the Gouna Red Sea next to Egypt’s El Gouna desert, almighty lineups including Folamour, Palms Trax, Mella Dee, Sweely, and more play to intimate crowds. The desert plane hosting Sandbox sits next to the turquoise waters of the red sea, making it the perfect respite for anyone seeking some time away from the unforgiving heat. This year’s dates are currently unconfirmed, although you can bank on a glorious weekend somewhere in mid June.

Website | Instagram

Day Zero, Israel



Finishing off our selection is Israel's Day Zero festival hosted in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Masada, not to be confused with the festival’s second event held in the jungle of Tulum. As termed by the festival itself, Day Zero is ‘a convergence of mysticism, music, natural wonder and apocalyptic sentiment’, set amongst the scenic desert space in the heart of Israel. Here, you can find a bill of impressive house and techno artists from all over the globe with previous residents including DJ Tennis, Black Coffee, Four Tet, and Dennis Cruz amongst others. Day Zero celebrates 10 years this year kicking off on September 23rd, 2022.

Website | Instagram | Tickets



Desert Festivals to Visit Around The World

2021 was yet another tumultuous year. A year that constantly highlighted the fragility of the everyday. As lock-downs eased, a late-stage festival season emerged like nothing we've seen before. And as new variants surged, our plans with family and friends were once again thrown into the blender. We learned to understand that the only constant is change. 

We experienced euphoric dance floor reunions and the hope of a reunited house and techno community. The clubs, festivals, and playlists exploded new talent, the dancefloor bustled with new fans, and veterans observed a rediscovered spirit that reflects the storied days of the 90s.


And as artists shared their quarantine anthems, we learned that dance music could be many things. It's always fun, always danceable, but it can also be deeply personal, emotionally transcendent, and a revelation and reflection of our deepest desires. 


It was an unprecedented year of growth for house and techno worldwide. And the Gray Area team took the time to dig through the crates and pull out the songs that exemplified the year best. So here are our best house and techno tracks of 2021.

WEISS, Sharlene Hector - Lift Me Up

Now that house music has wriggled its way into the mainstream, we’ve seen a surplus of house bangers filling up the charts. An old-school house-styled cut like "Lift Me Up" stands out among the rest not only for its nostalgic sounds and production but because  Sharlene’s fervent vocals captivate and inspire. Her resounding, soulful vocals combined with Weiss’ masterful house production form one of this year’s most compelling piano house tracks—one that could easily be heard in a set by Marshall Jefferson or Paul Johnson back in the day. -Melissa Yuriar

KREAM, Dan Caplen - Roads (feat. Dan Caplen)[VIP Remix]

Norwegian electronic dance music duo KREAM has a penchant for producing deep house cuts with emphatically heartfelt lyrics. "Roads," released earlier this year, is a saccharine dance track driven by poignant vocals from classically trained musician Dan Caplen. He cites Bill Withers and John Legend as vocal inspirations. Though Caplen’s heart-rending vocals remain at the forefront of the reworked deep-house tune, they appear to have a more pronounced sultry finish. The VIP remix is a bouncy, enthralling remix of the original that feels timeless.  -Melissa Yuriar


Gorgon City, DRAMA - You've Done Enough

Gorgon City’s distinct bass-driven house music is immediately recognizable, having amassed over 1.5 billion streams to date on all their records combined. Their latest album Olympia, released in June, features incredible collaborations with Sofi Tukker, Hayley May, and Jem Cooke. The self-deprecating love ballad “You’ve Done Enough,” features vocals from Rosa of the Chicago-based duo DRAMA. Powered by an infectious, oscillating bassline and sweetly sung lyrics that form a compelling story many resonate with. 

“It’s been said that if you become the best version of yourself that it’s easier to find someone to love you for who you truly are, as opposed to someone who loves you for who they think you are or will become,” said Rosa about the song’s meaning to Genius. “Know that you deserve nice things, like people loving you.”  -Melisa Yuriar

Shaolin Cowboy, manon - Réveiller (feat. manon)

Rising London producer Shaolin Cowboy is one to watch. Last year he released several singles on Bandcamp and his acclaimed debut EP, Catch Feels Get High. While his production features plenty of lofi-grooves, textures, and breaks, he’s demonstrated his fearlessness in experimenting with various tempos and elements from multiple genres. His latest EP, 21 Hours, amalgamates several elements plucked from sound system genres–UK garage, breakbeat, acid, and house–and contains the stunning breakout single, "Réveiller." The tune is an upbeat lofi-house club track that features alluring vocals by upcoming French songstress, manon. Shaolin Cowboy’s production on the tune is one of the most interesting we’ve heard this year. Don’t sleep on this unbelievably underrated house tune.  -Melisa Yuriar

Sofia Kourtesis - Nicolas

Peruvian tastemaker-producer Sofia Kourtesis' brand of house music is distinct. Much of it centers around distorted or looped vocals and splintered film samples that she expertly weaves into emotive and buoyant beats. "Nicolas," off her latest EP, Fresia Magdalena delivers house-realness with its driving bassline, lofi textures, and shimmery fills—the enchanting song is a potent cut with infectious energy. Sofia’s adeptness in sound design and mixing is nothing short of sensational. - Melisa Yuriar








Dom Dolla, Mansionair - Strangers

Australian house producer Dom Dolla collaborated with electronic-indie artists Mansionair on one of the most stirring house tracks of the year. Mansionair’s Jack Froggatt lent his impassioned vocals while Dom showed off his production prowess with driving basslines and atmospheric melodies that ebb and flow throughout. 

The song’s narrative deals with themes of longing and impulsivity with sweeping strings and a heart-rending delivery from Froggatt. Catch this and many more house hitters from Dom this year as he tours across the United States and the United Kingdom, Netherlands, New Zealand, and Australia next year. Mansionair recently announced the forthcoming release of their sophomore album; they'll be touring the US early next year.   -Melisa Yuriar


TSHA - Power

Awarded BBC Radio 1’s “Future Artist” title, UK-producer TSHA is having an incredible year. Her latest EP OnlyL, which contains the stand-out single “Power,” received broad support from Annie Mac, Zane Lowe, Bonobo, and publications like Fader, Resident Advisor, Mixmag, XLR8R, This Song is Sick, and Dancing Astronaut. 

"Power," released on Ninja Tune, is one of her best releases this year. The song features oscillating instrumentals, uplifting vocal samples, and a delicate piano loop that exudes warm, jubilant energy. Her hip-shaking club bangers and production style are inimitable. We can't wait to hear what this rising talent has in store for us next year.  -Melisa Yuriar










J Worra feat. Little Boots - Wasteland 

This tune is a straight banger with signature bass heavy-hitting beats by J. Worra. The vocals by Little Boots add the right element to the track to make this tune straight up sassy and sexy.  -Alicia Baron

Alinka- Glimmer 

This full-throttle-house track has no shortage of texture and soundscapes that keep you energized. With a fun nod to 90's Eurodance in the hook. The pumping bass mixed with euphoric glimmering synth packs so much multidimensional punch.  -Alicia Baron

Nala- Psychic Attack

This track has taken dancefloors by storm. An ecstatic blend of indie electro and house, wonky beats, and a fat groovy bassline. Nala's voice adds an element of ethereal with her signature lyrics as she dives into the topic of mass media manipulation of the mind.   -Alicia Baron







Disclosure- Observer Effect 

Disclosure mixes their signature house shuffle adds heavier synths than we're used to from the boys. It's gritty analog sounds are fundamentaly face-melting.  -Alicia Baron

Joshwa, Lee Foss - My Humps

"My Humps" combines a blissfully nostalgic throwback with the thumping speaker-freaker sound. It easily viral even before its release combining rampant energy and a new take on Fergie's 2005 smash hit of the same name.   -Alicia Baron

Maceo Plex, Liberty City - You Know What I Got

Maceo Plex's swirling melodies and Liberty City’s infectious vocal are a match made in heaven. This track is a fresh take on the 1995 classic featuring soaring leads, fluctuating synths, and warped vocals, which is nothing short of epic.   -Alicia Baron

Kevin Knapp - Dancing with the Devil 

This track kicks off in Kevin Knapp's usual fashion - with big fat beats, heavy drums, and powerful synths. This track has a hard edge with echoing vocal samples to deliver a fast-paced drive throughout.   -Alicia Baron

Sacha Robotti - Fuck the Pain Away

A remake of Peaches’ iconic track Robotti delivers punching bass throughout. The infectious percussion arrangement offers a fierce dance floor groove under the infamous vocals redone by BabyGirl. This is a true Robotti classic.     -Alicia Baron

Jayda G - All I Need 

GRAMMY-nominated Jayda G has beautifully emerged from the underground onto the stages of Boiler Room, Dekmantel Festival, and Aluna’s upcoming all-Black Noir Fever New Orleans. Her track “All I Need” premiered on the coveted DJ-Kicks series and garnered rave reviews by the likes of Rolling Stone, NYLON, as well as being placed on Pitchfork’s electronic and regular top songs of 2021. Jayda G brings back vintage house feels in this ultra groovy tune, even including clips of an old rave in the accompanying music video.  -Arielle Lana LeJarde


TOKiMONSTA - Say Yes (feat. VanJess)

Los Angeles producer, DJ, and record label owner TOKiMONSTA first received a GRAMMY nod in 2019 after her personal Lune Rouge album. "Say Yes” is a rework of Floetry’s 2002 track by the same name. R&B duo VanJess and TOKiMONSTA reimagined it into a sexy, soulful house tune that you can’t help but groove to. When venues started opening up again, it was rare to find a house set this wasn’t rinsed in. -Arielle Lana LeJarde

Gemi - Talk

Gemi is one of London’s hidden gems who describe their music as “nukg shithousery.” And precisely as advertised, “Talk” is a UK garage track that showcases playful percussion, dreamy vocals, and shimmering synths that make you feel like you’re floating. 
-Arielle Lana LeJarde

Rome In Silver - Fill Up My Soul 

Multi-faced Rome In Silver never sticks to one genre, and that’s why he can be found on esteemed labels ranging from Monstercat to bitbird to Quality Goods Records, as well as supporting a wide range of names from CloZee to Dabin. In a turn of events, Zeds Dead's label Deadbeats released Rome In Silver’s latest track of the year, “Fill Up My Soul.” The song is a funky disco tune that seamlessly blends in bass elements and stays true to the label's sound. The soulful adlibs and vocal chops throughout the track truly take you back in time.  -Arielle Lana LeJarde


Make Me Feel - John Summit

John Summit announced himself on a global scale with 2020’s song of the year, "Deep End." Although many artists would be satisfied with that accomplishment, John did not take a day off. "Make Me Feel" is just one of many hit songs John Summit dropped in 2021 to continue his ascension. The track majors in John Summit’s signature low-end bassline, with a satisfying female vocal loop to keep feet moving on the dancefloor. It maintains hype without sounding too radio-friendly, a lane that John seems to manage regularly. -Jonah Flint

Do It - Sohmi

A classically trained pianist, and vocalist, Sohmi refuses to be defined. One of the breakout stars of 2021, the Korean-American has turned heads with her unique blend of dark minimal house, techno, left field, breaks, and funk. "Do It" encapsulates her work, a stunning release on Yotto’s label Odd One Out. Utilizing her sultry vocals, the track takes listeners on a journey through her unique take on techno with a monster synth line and punchy bass. -Jonah Flint



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Alter Ego - Duke Dumont

Duke Dumont is no stranger to big hits. He has been a headliner for years now, although the last few have regularly seen him raise the bar. Returning to his club sound, "Alter Ego" is infectious. Calling upon the budding star Channel Tres for his iconic vocals, the track is a club-ready banger that can put a groove in your step walking down the street or at 4 am in a dark room during a night out on the town. -Jonah Flint


Ahora Todo Va - Josh Butler & Dennis Cruz

When two veterans get together, you can expect brilliant results. "Ahora Todo Va" is a track that Josh Butler was sitting on for months until he enlisted the assistance of Dennis Cruz. Together, the two crafted a Latin-influenced tech house track that is relentless. Spanish vocals, lively drum patterns, and a lengthy build-up give this track the energy to fit any size of the room. Coupled with a monster remix by Gorgon City, ‘Ahora Todo Va’ is one of the year’s best tracks.  - Jonah Flint

The Best House and Techno Tracks of 2021

Germany

Lilly Palmer

Lilly Palmer plays with tension and release in her songs "Temptation," "Aether," and "Vertigo" from her label Spannung Records. The German techno artist likes to explore dissonant realms. 

"In German, Spannung has two meanings. On the one hand it means voltage, and on the other hand it means tension," she explains, smiling. "I love this wordplay because tension can be either positive or negative. But it also reminds me of the job of a DJ – you're always under tension." 

Spannung Records' sleek logo resembles the power cell in an electric circuit. She promotes the label through a new webshop with original designs, including an elegant unisex bomber jacket. As a techno artist, Lilly fully believes in rocking different shades of black. 

Raised in Nuremberg, Germany, Lilly Palmer came of age in Berlin, exploring the techno scene. As a teenager, she was a metalhead until she began clubbing at 17. 

"It was in Switzerland (that) I really fell in love with deep house especially," she says. Every week she had favorite tracks to share with friends, and one day they suggested she start DJing. In 2015 Lilly made her debut, releasing an EP Teaser on Natura Viva Records, including the sizzling track "Before Acid." 

Lilly lives in the dance music mecca of Amsterdam with her boyfriend, DJ Egbert, and a Bengal cat named Dirk. While taking things slowly at home, she set time aside to learn kitesurfing. Despite a few faceplants, she gets back up and keeps flying. 

Similar to making music, she overcame the challenges that come with developing new skills. "If you don't understand how to break or speed it up, sometimes I went faster, faster, faster and couldn't stop anymore and fell," She describes. "I hit the water, and yeah, you're a bit shocked at first, but then you're going to do it again." Lilly is determined to go with the flow, and as a DJ, she has a masterful control of the environment. 

"I have this energetic side in me, and that took over," Lilly says, recalling her beginnings with deep house. "My sets are sometimes still melodic. Now I prefer hard techno even though a lot of people wouldn't consider my music as hard techno as there is in Berlin. There, it's much harder than what I do." 

She isn't far removed from the early-career jitters. "I remember very clearly, the day I opened my Facebook 'Lilly Palmer' fan page. I was sitting in front of the laptop, and I was shivering." But once she launched, she was relieved with the support of friends and, eventually, new fans. 

Coming up and getting support from friends within the scene was even more difficult than initially expected. In fact, she lost friends and wasn't immediately bolstered. 

"As soon as I started, I kind of lost all of those male DJ friends I had before," who didn't seem to approve of her artistic debut. However, her worries faded with each sign of encouragement. Lilly jumped the hurdles of entering a male-dominated scene and saw the bright side of being a female DJ, "You get to reach a lot of people very fast because you're very unique."



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And had she listened to every piece of advice, she wouldn't be a DJ with the traction she has today, so she knows not to take everything personally. Instead, curious and ready to explore the world, she would tell her younger self to "Keep going, go on with that." 

Lilly Palmer's resilience and independence comes from a do-it-yourself mindset. She invested in her setup and skills to produce 15 live streams without relying on a big team during the pandemic. She beams, "I love that feeling - I feel really independent."  

Online, Lilly Palmer DJs amidst gorgeous backdrops, including rooftop sunsets and the Eiffel Tower. The sounds are dark and industrial. ice-cold acid and scorching techno. A Lilly Palmer track wouldn't be complete without thrashing snares and chilling vocal samples.

Building anticipation is what Lilly Palmer does best, and fans are left shaking with excitement and satisfaction. Soon, Lilly hopes to have her visa to play in North America. 

She wants to add more tracks and artists to the Spannung Records roster, valuing quality over quantity. Singles merit their own releases, and they have to be something she'd play in a Lilly Palmer set, she says. So she plans to keep building. 

"If I came home from a gig and thought, wow that was the best ever, then something is wrong." Lilly explains, "It's in us artists that we always want to develop and always do better." 


Interview by RYDEN 

Ultra’s return to historic Bayfront Park in Miami gets a touch sweeter today with the announcement of the Resistance lineup. The underground house and techno off-shoot of Ultra has a well-documented reputation for curating forward-thinking lineups. And next March 25-27 they’ve upped the ante with an impressive array of world-class talent that spans the expansive diversity of the underground community.


The Resistance lineup gives some context to some of the incredible artists already announced on the Phase 1 lineup.  Melodic techno duo and Afterlife Records head honchos Tale Of Us join progressive titans CamelPhat, veteran and legend Dubfire, and Resistance champion Carl Cox who debuts his all-new three hours hybrid performance exclusively for Ultra Miami 2022.

What’s truly striking is the diversity in the rest of the lineup. The representation of fantastic women in house and techno can’t be undersold. And this year’s lineup includes venerated acts alongside exciting rising stars. Amelie Lens, ANNA, Anfisa Letyago, Nina Kraviz, Sama’ Abdulhadi, Ann Clue, Georgia Anjuli, and Nala will all take the stage.



The lineup is also diverse in sound with a broad sonic footprint, from the grooving bassline of Dom Dolla and John Summit to the sweeping melodics of Hannes Beiger’s live performance. The pounding beats of Adam Beyer to the sun-soaked Beatport topping tech house of Solardo and the legendary progressive sonics of Sasha | John Digweed. The Resistance lineup overflows with talent. There’s so much there that you’ll never have to leave the revamped Resistance area of Ultra Miami.



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Resistance will take residence in a new section of Ultra’s fabled home on the park's northern perimeter. The new location allows house and techno fans to spread amongst multiple areas, including the Carl Cox megastructure and an all-new concept called The Cove. Beneath the palm trees overlooking Biscane Bay, Resistance fans will feel a hint of nostalgia for 2019’s Resistance Island.

Tickets on sale now at https://ultramusicfestival.com/tickets/miami/

Ultra Miami Unveils the Resistance Lineup for 2022

In October, Gray Area launched OCHO, an eight-hour journey through the global sounds of modern house and techno. In partnership with Diplo's Revolution and Sirius XM, listeners expanded their sonic palates with a day of diverse music and fresh beats. On December 11, 2021, OCHO returns to the airwaves with a new lineup featuring Dennis Ferrer, Yulia Niko, Gioliì & Assia, Dennis Cruz, John Summit, Dombresky, Archie Hamilton, and Arielle Free.

The lineup of innovative and forward-thinking artists is another shining example of Gray Area's mission to unite the international house music community and draw lines between its rich sub-cultures and sub-genres.

Dennis Ferrer

New York-born house music legend Dennis Ferrer heads the lineup. Ferrer established his footprint in the 90s as part of the early New York techno and gospel house scene. The genre-defining producer has throughout the years continued to push the envelope with a wide-spanning output that includes hits like "Hey Hey," "Sinfonia Della Notte," and "Whisper" with Disciples and James Yuill.

Follow Dennis Ferrer on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Soundcloud

Yulia Niko

Yulia Niko's worldly sound is likely a result of her travels. The Russian-born artist discovered dance music in Sochi, wrote her breakthrough music in Greece and New York, and finally settled in Berlin, where she became a resident of the iconic Watergate nightclub. Her Detroit-inspired deep minimal tech has received acclaim from Jamie Jones and Lee Foss and earned her releases on Get Physical, Crosstown Rebels, and Objektivity.

Follow Yulia Niko on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Soundcloud



Tune in to Gray Area OCHO on December 11, 2021



Giolí & Assia

Multi-hyphenate's Gioli & Assia combine their deep-seated background in live instrumentation and traditional music for a lush, passionate melodic experience like no other. What started as a manager/ client relationship has grown into a creative partnership that has developed beyond their imagination. Assia's lilting vocals float over the top of scintillating sonics that exemplify the lengths to which techno can be pushed.

Follow Giolì & Assia on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Soundcloud

Dennis Cruz

Dennis Cruz is a singular force in house and techno. By the time the Spanish DJ and producer was 17, he'd already been in the studio with hip hop artists and rock bands crafting hits. However, he found a home in dance music weaving together thumping basslines, Latin-tinged beats, and a wide array of musical influences. Named the Beatport Most Charted Artist of 2016, his music draws support from icons like Jamie Jones, Joseph Capriati, Roger Sanchez, and Marco Carola.

Follow Dennis Cruz on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Soundcloud



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John Summit

John Summit has been on a two-year tear, dropping hit record after record and dominating the festival circuit. Incredibly, the Chicago-based DJ broke through amid the pandemic with "Deep End" on Defected—the longest-running Beatport #1 of 2020. He has since collaborated with everyone from Gorgon City to Sofi Tukker and has seen releases on the industry's most lauded labels.

Follow John Summit on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Soundcloud

Dombresky

Dombresky has established himself as a dynamic purveyor of classy, uplifting, vocal-driven house music. The French-born, LA-based artist has dominated the Spotify playlists and festival stages in 2020 with landmark performances at Lollapalooza and EDC Vegas. And future classic releases on Insomniac, Armada, and Toolroom.

Follow Dombresky on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Soundcloud







Archie Hamilton

In 2019 Archie Hamilton released his debut album Archive Fiction, a milestone and breakthrough moment for the producer who'd already spent years grinding and building his two record labels, Moscow Records and Moss Co., from the ground up. His rough and tumble basslines and floating synth work were the first signal that a new brand of European house music maestro was taking over the game.

Follow Archie Hamilton on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Soundcloud

Arielle Free

BBC Radio 1 presenter, producer, and DJ Arielle Free has risen to be an influential tastemaker in dance music. Often referred to as Scotland's answer to Annie Mac, she's diligently spent years creating her own space in dance music. Aside from being the daytime ambassador for Radio 1's iconic dance programming, her career as a DJ exploded in 2020 with performances at Printworks, Parklife, Glastonbury, and Creamfields.

Follow Arielle Free on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Soundcloud



Tune in to Gray Area Presents OCHO on December 11 from 12 PM to 8 PM ET.







Gray Area OCHO Returns to Diplo's Revolution in December


Gray Area makes another step in its mission to “unify and strengthen the House Music community around the world,” today by partnering with Spotify for an official editorial playlist on the streaming platform. Gray Area Guest List launched with over five hours of house and techno from the forward-thinking and creative voices that are defining the myriad sounds of underground dance. 



Spotify’s Guest List playlists allow noted brands and artists to take over an official editorial playlist curating it from top to bottom precisely to match that brand’s unique footprint. And the Gray Area list is lovingly selected to reflect the future of dance music.



Included are songs from Gray Area Spotlight featured artists QRTR, LP Giobbi, Vintage Culture, and Will Clarke. Alongside bonafide legends like Ricardo Villalobos, Miss Kittin, Maya Jane Coles, Anja Schneider, Guy Gerber, Steve Bug, The Martinez Brothers, Joseph Capriati, Jamie Jones, Louie Vega, Pig & Dan, Royksopp, and Maceo Plex. 2022 GRAMMY Award nominee Black Coffee, Repopulate Mars boss Lee Foss, Drumcode front-man Adam Beyer, and Godfather of House Frankie Knuckles are also featured.


The Gray Area Guest List is a great way to get familiar with the sweeping sonic footprint of house and techno. Too often, we get stuck in our own lane, and the beauty of dance music is that it encompasses an array of shifting moods and aural textures. So take yourself on a journey through the expanse of underground dance music, turn up the volume and Let There Be More House Music.




Gray Area Takes Over Spotify's Official Guest List Playlist

After an unforeseeable two-year hiatus, the world’s leading indoor techno festival makes its monumental return to the states. On November 19th and 20th, Time Warp US will transport attendees to another dimension with its otherworldly attributes and spellbinding soundscapes spanning two modernized dance floors in a brand new Brooklyn location. 

Recognized for its entrancing lineups packed with techno’s finest, and cutting-edge audio and visual production design, this industrialized area in the city that never sleeps hosts the perfect underground environment for a beaming techno-infused celebration of this caliber. 

Time Warp US never ceases to astonish, but this year’s highly-anticipated production welcomes some extraordinary b2b performances and live acts that will add an unusual touch to the already alluring festival. 

What makes Time Warp so special is its unwavering devotion to techno, consistent authenticity, and sense of community throughout each installment. If you’re planning on attending next weekend, read on to gain more insight on seven Time Warp US b2b sets and live acts you don’t want to miss!

 

Ben Klock b2b Marcel Dettman

 

German techno titans Ben Klock and Marcel Dettman will bring a taste of that true Berlin sound everyone just can’t seem to get enough of. The Berghain club mainstays and resident DJs never fail to stir up a crowd with their flawless chemistry on the decks, always fusing their slightly distinct approaches to techno in the most harmonious manner. After catching a glimpse of their recent b2b set at Secret Project Festival during ADE last month, there’s no doubt this upcoming performance will leave attendees begging for more. 

 

 

Seth Troxler b2b Jamie Jones 

 

Fans were already thrilled for a Seth Troxler solo set since he was announced on the lineup in phase one. A few weeks ago, the festival curators unveiled that he would be playing alongside Welsh Hot Creations label boss Jamie Jones, an unexpected—yet welcome— surprise. After living in dance music-savvy cities like Detroit, Berlin, London, and Ibiza, Troxler has established himself as one of underground house and techno’s most iconic artists. Combined with Jamie Jones’ innovative soundscapes, this is one dynamic duo you won’t want to skip out on. 

 

 

 

 

 

Mink b2b O.Bee




Brooklyn native Mink has made a name for himself across NYC’s thriving music scene with his groundbreaking performances and all-encompassing compositions. Slated to take the stage next to Istanbul-born Brooklyn-based O.BEE, the two talented musicians will enlighten festival-goers with their rebellious, forward-thinking sounds during their unified Time Warp US debut. Both known for incorporating classic New York flavor into their sets, there’s a reason these two flourishing acts were enlisted for the festival this time around. 

 

Ricardo Villalobos b2b Craig Richards

 

Ricardo Villalobos has been fond of all things music from a young age, and it displays on every single note and melody he shares with fans across the globe. Born in Chile but raised in Germany, the acclaimed DJ and producer is inspired by both countries’ musical histories and is now acknowledged as a leading pioneer of the minimal techno genre. The Time Warp veteran returns alongside nightlife prodigy Craig Richards, whose diversified musical background and captivating techno ensembles mesh perfectly with Villalobos’ exotic beats. While it’ll be hard to top their 2019 b2b set, we’re excited to see these two live in action again.

 

KiNK (Live)

 

Bulgarian artist KiNK wears various hats within the industry but is particularly praised for his state-of-the-art, experimental live performances. The blooming DJ, producer, and beatmaker uses intricate analog machines in conjunction with CDJs when performing on stage, and each performance portrays his impressive sound mixing capabilities and musical expertise in the most alluring manner. KiNK will bring his passion for mixing and his live futuristic techno sounds to Brooklyn as he debuts at Time Warp next weekend!

 

 

Reinier Zonneveld (Live)

 

Reinier Zonneveld is living proof that you can turn your dreams into reality if you give it your absolute all. The self-taught Dutch musician’s decision to drop everything and dedicate all of his time and effort to solely creating techno has surely paid off. Zonneveld’s mesmerizing sonic elements are influenced greatly by his never-ending love for classical music and life-changing warehouse rave experiences, and he brings these devotions to life exquisitely during each live performance. Only he can master intertwining deep and melodic tones with heart rate-inducing acid techno in a live setting. 



 

 

 

Stephan Bodzin (Live)

 

Always humming to the beat of his own drum, Stephan Bodzin has established his own uniquely curated corner of techno. The renowned instrumentalist has headlined some of the world’s most influential venues and festivals, always captivating fans with his ethereal, mind-altering soundscapes. For those who’ve witnessed any of his live sets, it feels like you’re in a dream. A true storyteller on the dance floor, Bodzin portrays his authenticity and impassioned artistic vision flawlessly through each hypnotic melody and live performance. 

 

Aside from these peculiar b2b sets and live acts, all the other remarkable artists on this year’s Time Warp US lineup have a story of their own to tell through their individual mind-bending sounds, so make sure to indulge in as many different performances as possible throughout the festival. There’s a reason why Time Warp made its way across the Atlantic to New York City a few years back, and we’re just as thrilled as you are for its massive return!

For more information on Time Warp USA including time slots, full lineup, and tickets visit their website. 




Catch These Stunning B2Bs and Live Sets at Time Warp USA

Squire

Before 2011, you could find Squire—aka Jaime Alguersuari—speeding around the track behind the wheel of a Formula One car. And while he achieved great success there, when he left the sport he did so to pursue the thing that he’d been passionate about his whole life. Dance music has been omnipresent in the Spanish artist’s life for as long as he can remember. And as the allure of the beat became too strong to deny, he embarked on a journey to map his musical DNA.

“My parents started to go to Ibiza in 1975,” he says. “And I used to go there when I was very, very young. My musical background started there. My parents used to go to the opera … but as a child, I grew up between radio stations in Ibiza.”

DJ culture and club culture are synonymous with the island. But, as a teenager he was too young to go to the clubs, so he would take over basements with his friends to play music. “it all started as, as a game of friends in a basement. We used to buy all these records and show each record to each other to see which one had the best record or the coolest record. “

He wrapped himself in the hunt for the most exclusive cuts. Even in the early 00s before online download stores dominated the scene, you had to travel to get the rare gems. Every city had its sonic imprint, and to keep winning the game, you had to travel to find those rare gems.

Having friends that were a bit older than him proved an advantage. They’d sneak him in the back door of clubs, and when he was 16, got him his first gig. It was at a gay bar called Lola’s, a hidden gem and one of the first clubs to open in Ibiza Town over 40 years ago.

“I was 16. And I played my first record there. I felt like this amazing energy between the crowd and the booth. I think I got captured by the moment and fell so much in love with how much of an influence you can make by playing this tune or that other tune.”

As he traveled a path deeper into the dance music rabbit hole, he realized that the best way to always have the most exclusive music was to make it yourself. Because no matter how exclusive you think your promos are, at some point everyone is going to play the same tunes.

“That was the main reason for me to start making music … I thought, why don't I start making my own music. So, whenever I have a show, and I play music, I can play my own tracks.” He didn’t begin with the intention of publishing his tunes, it was all for the love of the chase. However, his obsession grew into a career. And when he decided to leave racing, it was because the music was the only thing he could see himself focusing on.

He does however see some interesting parallels between music and racing. He says that every time he put his helmet on, he knew he was going to work. The discipline, routine, and psychological fortitude it took to remain focused on the track are no different from how he works in the studio.

“Going into the studio every day, I have to follow a certain routine. And it starts very early in the morning, I take things seriously. If I want to evolve and develop my career in the music industry. I need to have a disciplined life or let's say, a routine that that puts the benchmark every day a bit higher.”

When he was younger, his competitive spirit drove him on the race track and behind the DJ booth. Now, he’s only competing with himself to push for even better music with each release. His steadfast dedication to his craft has led to releases on iconic labels like Crosstown Rebels, Do Not Sit on the Furniture, Get Physical sub-label Kindisch, and his album Stop on the innovative German label Mobilee.

When he began to discuss the project with label head Ralf Kollmann he was told to go in whatever direction he wanted to take. And as the world shut down during the COVID pandemic, he found the time to seek inspiration from within.

“Many of us, we don't have the time to be in the studio, and like, jam around and feel the synergy. Sometimes you are thinking too much and pushing too much. And that's why the album is called Stop, because everything came to a stop,” He explains.

"It gave me the possibility to be relaxed, in my zone, in a studio. Just thinking about making music that I love. I don't know if it's going to work if it's not going to work, but at least I know I'm connected with this music I'm producing. And that's why I felt like making more personal music … something unexpected.”

With the constant barrage of releases, the lifecycle of a song has become woefully short. He remembers when he could drop a song that was a decade old in a set and it would still hit. He’s seeking to reconnect with that time, and ultimately create music that takes people places.

“I always say music has to have a story, even if it's a one minute song.” And the message that he wants to communicate is a simple lesson he learned during the pandemic.

“With the digital era, there's an excess of information. And there's so much happening, that it looks like we live in a crazy world…it looks like we're always unhappy, because we want things faster and quicker ... I think we do have to stop and ask ourselves, who we are, what do we think what do we want to do?”




We’re just days away from Miami’s infamous iii Points Festival. Since its debut in 2013, it’s won praise for its musical diversity, cultural art collaborations, and eye-popping art installations. iii Points offers a wide range of musical acts from hip-hop, pop, mainstream/ rock, and dance. Here are picks for the top house and techno artists to catch while you're in Miami.







Jamie xx

A forward-thinking beatmaker and producer helped shape the sound of the late 2000s and beyond with his English indie group the xx. As a solo artist, he tempered the restraint of his other work with his reverence for dance music's power to move bodies and hearts. His artful blend of kinetic and atmospheric is equally innovative and evocative.




Nicola Cruz

Latin American DJ and producer has always been captivating. His creative process involves a careful curation of life, nature, and sound to form a unique vibey rhythm that speaks to his roots. Intertwining the siku into his melodies, a wind instrument of Andean origin, is highly symbolic in ancestral rituals. Cruz continues to expand his vision towards new stories and other cultures as sources of inspiration. 







Black Coffee 

The South African DJ and producer built his career gradually over nearly two decades crafting a unique jungle house signature sound inspired by his cultural heritage and a love of house music. On the decks, he’s a perfectionist and delivers a euphoric performance each time he steps on stage. In 2010, he attained the Guinness World Record for longest-ever DJ set with a non-stop 60-hour set. As a producer, he’s collaborated with a wide range of artists including Usher, Diplo, Elderbrook, and David Guetta. He’s led the charge for an influx of talented artists from Africa and is arguably the continent's largest dance music export.










Peggy Gou

Hailing from South Korea, DJ and producer one of the leading ladies in house and techno. Gou became internationally renowned for her energetic sets and acclaimed tracks such as “It Makes You Forget (Itgehane),” “Starry Nigh”, and “I Go.” Her vibrant, joyous productions echo vintage deep house and post-disco without sounding like throwbacks.




Maceo Plex

A legend in the techno scene, Eric Estornel has produced and performed under numerous aliases like Maetrik and Mariel Ito. It’s under his Maceo Plex moniker that he is most well known for. The Miami-based DJ and producer played at countless iconic festivals and released a slew of records, singles, projects, and is the owner of Ellum Audio. His sound is dramatic and elegant, an aesthetic you can hear on the ambitious “Solar,” named after his son. He’s adept at mixing dark, more sci-fi-influenced tones with moving melodies. A true master of the craft who always performs with quality.




Patrick Topping

Hailing from England, the savvy DJ and producer has contributed a constant flow of positivity to the music scene he loves so dearly. He’s known for vibrant tech-house tracks such as “Be Sharp Say Nowt,” “Forget,” “Rocket Fuel,” and the infamous collab with Green Velvet “Voicemail.” Equally talented as a DJ, Patrick has attained international status as a headline act. His illustrious discography, blossoming label TRICK, and affiliation with party brands such as elrow prove he is at the top of his game. As he continues to inject his energy into refining his craft and building his crew of talented acts, Patrick is entering a new level of artistry.




Cristoph 

Inspired by the progressive sounds of musical legends like Sasha and Digweed, Christoph has developed his take on melodic house that’s as emotional as it is dance floor ready. He mastered his craft on vinyl and then developed a sound that gained the notice of Eric Prydz. In the last few years tracks like “Sleepless Nights,” “Out of Reach,” and “Breathe” with Camelphat have catapulted him to the top of the charts. He continues to release more music along with his radio show Consequence of Society. 




Michael Bibi

A certified icon of the underground scene, the English producer has crafted countless killer tracks. His raw passion for music began at a young age. Bibi has carved out and established a distinct signature sound translating into support from some of the industry’s biggest names. He’s also got a signature haircut that’s often imitated, but never quite duplicated. Bibi's unique production style and off-the-wall vocals are the keys to his success. 




Fjaak 

The German duo is known for their driving, energetic tracks ranging from house to storming warehouse techno. They are also known to toss in an occasional U.K. garage, dub, or breakbeat hardcore tune for good measure. The weed-loving duo consists of Felix Wagner and Aaron Röbig, who commonly perform in dark dungeonous settings, so iii Points will be a unique opportunity to experience a slice of rave in the sunshine. Filled with grit and sensuality, their tracks are all composed entirely on analog equipment. 







Danny Daze 

The Miami native is known for mixing classic electro, Detroit techno, and funk with glistening 80s-90s vibes. Daniel Gomez makes raw and authentic tracks supported by many of the other pristine techno artists who will also be playing at the festival. His radical approach to preserving music’s integrity while breaking its boundaries may seem volatile, but it’s not random. 






Get Familiar With the House and Techno Artists of iii Points Festival

The summer is ending strong in Paradise. Heavy-hitter house producer Jamie Jones brings his popular Paradise event series to New York City on September 25 to world-renowned Avant Gardner to showcase the best in house and techno. Get ready to escape, because you’ll feel like you’re on vacation in Ibiza for one of the best nights of dance music of the whole year.

“People often ask me why I called the party ‘Paradise,’ you know it’s kind of an obvious name in many ways, but to me it was because what I thought was lacking in Ibiza was what I always had in my mind that the Paradise Garage was - a crowd of musical minded adults who were dancing the night away with amazing colours all around them and just a real feeling of creativity and musical energy. So the name Paradise came from that idea.” 

- Jamie Jones

The event will bring us Opus 1’s US debut. The collaborative project between Jamie Jones and London-based Kate Simko is making its way to the Brooklyn stage for a cinematic, orchestral live performance early on in the night, so make sure to plan ahead and be there on time. 

Other names on the lineup include head of One Tribe NYC Amémé, Purveyor Underground label-head Demuir, Chicago house legend DJ Deeon, and more! But it doesn’t stop at music. New York’s iconic nightlife personality Ladyfag will also be doing their own takeover, featuring Boo Lean, Five, Michael Magnan, and Ruby Fox.

The last time New York City saw Paradise was 2017. So we’re excited for its long-awaited return after 4 years. Check out the lineup below and make sure to grab your tickets here before they sell out. And if you see us there, make sure to say hi!


Connect with Jamie Jones:
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Connect with Paradise:
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Amnesia Ibiza Opening

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