Name: Tale Of Us Present Afterlife Opening Party 2023
Start: 2023-06-22T23:00:00.000+02:00
End: 2023-06-23T06:00:00.000+02:00

United Kingdom

Massano

Only a few short years ago, Massano looked up to melodic techno figureheads such as Tale of Us and Mind Against as distant role models. Today, the Liverpool producer and DJ counts them among his close peers.




Look no further for evidence than what transpired at Afterlife Madrid in March 2023. Not only did Massano (real name Sam Rose) share the stage with Afterlife bosses Tale of Us, but the duo tested out his cinematic single, “Shutdown,” during their set.

“Madrid felt extra special to me. I’d had a month off before that, so it was a big show to test all this new music,” Rose says. “To get such great reactions was confirmation that it had been a good month of producing.”




Support from major acts and crowds in the tens of thousands is now a common occurrence for Rose. Prior to the pandemic, though, it seemed a remote possibility.




Sam Rose first discovered dance music as a child. His father would play it around the house and even brought him to a Faithless concert when he was only 11 years old.




“I remember looking around and seeing people enjoying the rave and just being like, ‘What is going on?’” he says. “It seemed like chaos at the time, but now it seems really normal.”




This initial exposure didn’t evolve into a career ambition overnight. “I wasn’t super into it from that stage — that’s just my earliest memories it,” Rose says. “I think around the time I started going to house parties was when I started getting really into electronic music and found a love for discovering new music and making playlists to share it with people.”




By Rose’s first year of university in Lancaster, the music industry started to beckon. In this nascent stage, though, he still hadn’t set his sights on DJing and producing.




“I started thinking about what I wanted to do long term in life, and what interested me the most was this music stuff that I was doing. I didn’t necessarily think ‘I want to be a DJ.’ I just started thinking about what I could do to get into the music industry in any way because I hadn’t really had experience with any of it.”




Sam Rose started applying for management internships with brands like Universal Music Group. As luck would have it, they only wanted candidates with experience. Around the same time, he started teaching himself how to produce and play music as a hobby. Not long afterward, he began to pursue it in earnest.




“I was aimlessly doing it and not really putting much energy into it. I’d say I was producing maybe twice a week at that stage, and then DJing just for fun occasionally,” Rose says. “But then, I started thinking, ‘I’m actually really enjoying the producing and the DJing,’ so I thought that it might actually be what I wanted to do within the music industry.”




He continues: “After my second year of university, I started pushing myself to do as much as I could and spend as much time as possible on it. I moved to London for an internship where I was working with Vodafone in a marketing role. But whilst working for Vodafone, I was also pushing myself to spend as much time as I could on the music.”




Rose suffered from homesickness, having yet to make new friends in London. In the long run, this worked to his advantage. Relegated to his bedroom studio on the weekends, he gave music his undivided attention. It didn’t take long for this to come back to him in the form of opportunities.




“In the six months after that, I got to a point where I was ready to start releasing music,” Rose says. “I’d try and work from home as much as I could, keeping the laptop from work open on one screen while I worked on music on the other screen. That’s when I made my biggest track, ‘The Feeling,’ — and ‘Velocità’ was also in that six months.”






Rose released his music under the name Massano from the beginning. “I brainstormed and made anagrams of my name. I thought about which ones I liked the most, and in the end, I went with Massano,” he says. “Not often do people stick with the first project, so I figured I didn’t need to think too much about it. I love the name now especially, as it’s got a lot of meaning to me.”




A lot of Afterlife artists co-signed Massano early on — perhaps most notably Mind Against. The Italian duo played his tracks at Afterlife Tulum 2020, and then again during their Cercle set later in January.




“I didn’t even have an Instagram,” Rose admits. “The next morning, the label manager from Running Clouds told me, “You need to make an Instagram now because people are looking for you. I made one, and within the first couple of days, I had, like, a thousand followers already.”




Timing was not on Massano’s side, however. Two months later, the World Health Organization declared COVID a pandemic, preventing him from leveraging his newfound popularity toward gigging.




Over the next year and a half, Rose stocked his proverbial shelves with new music and then opened for business once nightlife resumed. “Things went from zero to 100 because I’d grown so much without really DJing,” he says. “I’d DJed in friends’ house parties and smaller local clubs for university, but never anything properly as a Massano show. So then after COVID, I went from having not so much gig experience to getting booked every weekend.”




Massano has continued to gain momentum ever since. He has performed throughout Europe and South America, landing on the lineups of such festivals as Time Warp Brazil and Kappa FuturFestival in Italy. 2023 also marked his first US tour dates, including a headline billing at NYC club Superior Ingredients.




“What’s great about the shows is it’s noticeable how much if you work at it in different markets, the shows keep getting bigger and you keep engaging more fans. It’s nice to see the your effort pay off,” Rose says.




Cliquing up with his heroes doesn’t mean he’s reached his destination in the music world. Far from it, in fact. The road up to now offers a mere glimpse at what lies in store for Massano as he’s only begun to explore the depth of his sound.



It’s every producer’s dream to hear one of their favorite acts playing their track out in the wild. If you’re lucky, you have fellow DJs that continue to champion your music throughout your career. This is exactly what happened to Dutch DJ and producer Colyn, who was at a festival in his hometown of Amsterdam when he realized his idols Tale Of Us were playing one of his songs during their set. It caught him by surprise, as he hadn’t sent them music and was barely two years into releasing music as Colyn. He’d been making waves in the rich local scene, but could this be his big break?



He gathered the courage to introduce himself to the Italian duo, and the conversation didn’t exactly calm his nerves.


“I was in Amsterdam at a festival and they played a track of mine. I had nerves up to my ears and I tried to talk to them. I told Matteo, ‘Hey, you played a track of mine.’ He’s like, ‘I didn’t play it, Carmine played it. You should ask him.’ I was like oof. So I asked Carmine and he said, ‘Ohh, you’re that guy. That’s cool man, but we need to catch a helicopter to go to our next show.’ I was like, ‘Holy fuck, these guys.’ I asked how we can stay in touch and he gave me his phone number,” Colyn told Beatportal in 2022.



From there, Colyn started sending them music—a lot of music, about 35 tracks, including “Amor” the first track of his to drop on Afterlife. "Amor" was put out as part of the Afterlife Realm Of Consciousness Pt. IV compilation album in 2019, with his first stand-alone Afterlife release, the dark and driving four-track Resolve EP, dropping just a few months later.



In Tale of Us, Colyn found advocates for his fresh brand of dark melodic house and techno. And that stamp of approval from the kings of the genre meant releases on their label and track placement in their sets leading to his music reaching many more ears. “Amor” was supported by Afterlife regulars Mind Against, Mathame, and Joris Voorn, and the Resolve EP track “Eriador” saw heavy rotation from Tale Of Us in 2019.


“The EP was definitely a pivotal moment in my career. ‘Amor’ was my debut release on Afterlife, which did really well. But if you put out a debut and there’s no follow-up, it’s going to be difficult to keep your momentum going. Resolve perfectly followed up ‘Amor’ and I guess it’s also a bit of luck and timing that everything comes together. We had the right music ready to follow up and Tale Of Us also thought so. We got a massive response from that EP, which really launched my career and pushed me from upcoming local DJ to starting international DJ,” Colyn added.

Tale Of Us released two more of Colyn’s EPs, Patterns in 2020 and Oxygen Levels Low in 2022. And while it took some time to gain their trust and build a rapport, they’ve become close friends and mentors of his, something that still blows Colyn’s mind.



“At this point, I’m really good friends with all the guys, which is amazing,” Colyn said. “At the start, it’s a bit scarier because they’re helping you make your first steps in your career, so you feel like you’re walking a bit more on eggshells. Now, it’s a good friendship and we can talk about everything. It’s all open for discussion, which is super cool position [to be in].”

How Tale Of Us Playing Colyn's Track Led To Multiple Afterlife Releases

The experience of dancing for the last time inside the super clubs of Ibiza is a singular experience. The last week of September and the beginning of October brings the final call for many of the most popular residencies at Ibiza's top venues. And while there are many closing parties to choose from, we're bringing you the ones you can't miss out on.




Sven Väth presents Catharsis | Club Chinois | Tuesday, September 27

The founder of Cocoon, Sven Väth, will take the stage at the brand-new Club Chinois for one exclusive night this Tuesday. The German artist has heavily influenced Ibiza's dance circuit over the years. This season he has brought unique musical experiences through Catharsis (the name of his thirteen-track album) to the most essential venues playing every party as if it were his last. This will be the final chance to connect with the Ibiza legend this season, don't sleep. Buy tickets to enjoy the last Catharsis show by Sven Väth in Ibiza at Club Chinois.




Follow Sven Väth on Twitter | Instagram | Soundcloud







The Martinez Brothers Closing Party | Hï Ibiza | Tuesday, September 27

The superstar brothers from the Bronx, Chris, and Steve Martinez, conclude their first-ever residency in Ibiza this week. The Martinez Brothers have led one of the hottest nights on the island this summer with their trademark sound that expertly blends techno and house with a distinct New York edge. Next door in the Club Room, Paco Osuna has offered exquisite and forceful techno sounds. Paco and the Martinez Brothers were accompanied by a carefully curated selection of talented DJs, making Tuesdays at Hï Ibiza a must-visit for all dance lovers. For Kerri Chandler, Guti, and Renato Ratier, join them for the final outing alongside a special guest to create a memorable grand finale.

Get tickets for The Martinez Brothers' closing party at Hï Ibiza.




Follow The Martinez Brothers on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







FISHER Closing Party | Hï Ibiza | Wednesday, September 28

From the start of the season, it was obvious FISHER's headlining slot at

the #1 club in the world (as voted by DJMag) was going to be one of the greatest debuts in Ibiza this summer. The Aussie DJ and producer knows how to throw a party, and we have all danced to some of his tracks like "Losing it" or his latest "It's A Killa" (with Shermanology). FISHER will play all night long in the Theatre Room at Hï to conclude the season, while Vintage Culture drops an extended set next door in the Club Room.

Enjoy FISHER's last show at Hï this season




Follow FISHER on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Afterlife Day & Night | Hï & Ushuaïa Ibiza | Thursday, September 29

Italian music duo Tale Of Us present a final glorious show across Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza this Thursday, kicking things off in the open-air at Ushuaïa at 5 pm. The melodic techno pair play two headline sets in both venues (offering a b2b with Maceo Plex outdoors before midnight) and will be joined by Stephan Bodzin (live), Dixon, Mind Against, Sven Väth, Ben Klock B2B Marcel Dettmann, and many more. Purchase combined or separate tickets for Afterlife Grand Finale.




Follow Afterlife on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Solid Grooves Closing Party | DC10 | Thursday, September 29

Solid Grooves, the much-loved party and label with a distinctive deep tech soundtrack wraps up its first DC10 season this Thursday. Founder Michael Bibi joins label mates Dennis Cruz, PAWSA, Ben Sterling, and ANOTR and secret guests. The iconic underground venue DC10 has proven to be the perfect match for the groovers crew, so head over to the Salinas club and enjoy the last Solid Grooves of the year! Purchase your ticket for Solid Grooves Motel Closing party




Follow Solid Grooves on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud







Defected Closing Party | Eden | Friday, September 30

House music giant Defected is ready to close a fantastic season at San Antonio hotspot Eden. Defected has been at the forefront of the clubbing scene for more than 20 years and culminates its longest-ever season on the last day of September with Simon Dunmore, Mambo Brothers, Low Steppa, and many more. Head over to Defected closing party if you are looking for classic house music and uplifting vibes before the party season finally ends! Purchase your ticket for the Defected closing party at Eden.




Follow Defected on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud




elrow Closing Party | Amnesia | Saturday, October 1

elrow presents a new theme to close the busiest night at Amnesia properly. For the first time, elrow will present its most artistic and avant-garde theme: DELUSIONVILLE, a concept curated by the American contemporary artist Ron English. Metamorphic landscapes and anthropoid animals come to life exclusively at elrow's closing party. Amnesia and elrow have chosen one of the greatest representatives of clubbing culture to headline the show on the terrace, Fatboy Slim, alongside Eats Everything and elrow resident DJs Bastian Bux and Tini Glesser. The Main Room, renamed elrow City, will be occupied exclusively by Kölsch all night long. Dare to join the last elrow event of the summer in Ibiza and discover their new world! Buy your tickets for the elrow closing party and discover its newest theme.




Follow elrow on Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud




Storytellers Pangea Closing Party | Cova Santa | Sunday, October 2

A day trip by Storytellers (the team behind WooMooN) finalizes the season with Pangea. The closing is the last opportunity to take an active role in the fairytale world they've created while dancing to an extended set by Red Axes and Audiofly b2b Deer Jade. The event begins outdoors at 6 pm at Cova Santa and follows indoors from midnight till sunrise. Get tickets to enjoy Pangea by Storytellers at Cova Santa.




Follow Storytellers on Instagram | SoundCloud















Ibiza Selects (September 26 – October 2)

Upon returning from Tulum this week, the Gray Area office was buzzing with new music recommendations. Among them was Argy's "Tataki," a chunky techno anthem that ignited the dancefloor during his set at the Afterlife showcase. The UK-based artist's set was a highlight of the lauded imprint's showcase in the jungle. He played alongside the label's head honchos Tale of Us, Mind Against, Stephan Bodzin, and Recondite.

The track's chugging low-end thump, and a meditative chant are entrancing. And as "Tataki" opens up, it expands into a psychedelic patchwork of sweltering synth swells and hip-shaking vocal edits. 

Greek-born Argy has spent the last decade releasing genre-spanning music on labels like Cocoon, Cuttin' Headz, Crosstown Rebels, Play It Say It, and Archie Hamilton's Moscow Records. The dynamic producer is also a masterful selector. He was a resident at Berlin's Panorama Bar at the tender age of 20 and has since rocked the decks at countless clubs, including residencies in Ibiza at Amnesia, Space, and Pacha. The consummate crate digger is consistently ahead of the curve and revealed the talents of artists like the Martinez Brothers and Solomun in the early '00s, years before they dominated the dancefloor.

Follow Argy on Instagram | Soundcloud | Facebook



Track of The Week: Argy Unleashes 'Tataki' at Afterlife Tulum

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.



Become a Gray Area member for access to exclusive perks!



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

Italy

Tale of Us

Spain

Hï Ibiza

With cutting-edge production, immersive visuals, and top-level talents from across the house and techno spectrum, the boundary-pushing event has defined the melodic techno landscape over the years, and there is no more authentic place to experience it than their White Isle home at Hï Ibiza. 

To close out the season, Tale Of Us will present a day into night odyssey across Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza for the final event on Thursday October 5.

With the LINE-UP still TBA, you can expect other Afterlife talents to join the Italian duo each and every week of this summer. Keep your eyes peeled for more info.

Tale Of Us Present Afterlife Opening Party 2023

World-renowned duo Tale Of Us return to Hï Ibiza with their Afterlife residency, kicking off on Thursday June 22.

With cutting-edge production, immersive visuals, and top-level talents from across the house and techno spectrum, the boundary-pushing event has defined the melodic techno landscape over the years, and there is no more authentic place to experience it than their White Isle home at Hï Ibiza. 

To close out the season, Tale Of Us will present a day into night odyssey across Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza for the final event on Thursday October 5.

With the LINE-UP still TBA, you can expect other Afterlife talents to join the Italian duo each and every week of this summer. Keep your eyes peeled for more info.