The Maz Effect: Afro House with Brazilian Flavor

Sep 18, 2024

Photo of Michela Iosipov

Michela Iosipov

2 min read

For fans of Afro House, Maz is no stranger. He’s been steadily climbing the ranks, earning a well-deserved spot at the top of the genre. What truly sets him apart, though, is how he injects Brazilian culture into Afro House in a way that feels both authentic and organic.

At the heart of Maz’s music is his Brazilian heritage. Unlike many producers in the Afro House scene, Maz taps into Brazil’s rich musical history, blending samba rhythms, traditional percussion, and Portuguese vocals into his tracks. This is evident in his breakout hit "Banho de Folhas", which became Beatport’s best-selling Afro House track of 2022-2023.

The track combines Afrocentric grooves with unmistakable Brazilian influences, producing a sound that not only energizes his crowds but also sways his listeners. If his name pops up on your Spotify Release Radar on a Friday, you know you're in for a treat.

One aspect of Maz’s career that might be overlooked is his role as a curator of the scene, not just a participant. In 2020, Maz launched Dawn Patrol Records with fellow Brazilian artist Antdot. Hits like Povoada have showcased their vision, earning massive support from industry heavyweights like Black Coffee, Keinemusik, and Rüfüs Du Sol. Maz's impact isn’t confined to the studio.

In January 2024, Dawn Patrol hosted its first sold-out events in Rio de Janeiro, marking the start of a movement. Maz and Antdot aren’t just creating music—they’re building a community of Afro House lovers who appreciate the fusion of Brazilian flair and Afrocentric beats.

Beyond the music and events, Maz’s international reach is undeniable. He’s performed at some of the world’s biggest festivals, including Coachella, Tomorrowland, and Circoloco Ibiza, while keeping his Brazilian identity front and center. This balance between local and global makes Maz a trailblazer—molding the sound of Afro House while spotlighting Brazil’s impact on the genre.

For those who may have only heard his hits in passing, Maz’s music is more than just a track on a playlist. It’s a fusion of deep-rooted cultural inspiration and avant-garde grooves. Afro House fans should pay attention—Maz will be at the forefront, setting the standard for what’s next in music.

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