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- Influences: Sparrow Shares The Records That Shaped His Sound Following ‘Sweet Desire’ On Tortuga
Sparrow Swiss artist Sparrow steps into a new phase with ‘Sweet Desire’, his first full solo statement following years as one half of Sparrow & Barbossa. Out now on Tortuga Records, the record leans into space, rhythm and emotion, setting a clear tone for what this next chapter sounds like. That shift feels natural when you look at where his influences come from. His foundation is not just club music. It runs through jazz, lounge, soul and global sounds. You hear it in the way he builds grooves. Nothing feels forced. Everything breathes. Every element has a reason to be there. This Influences selection pulls those threads together. Five records that shaped how he hears music. Not just as a DJ, but as someone focused on feeling, atmosphere and long-term identity. Gotan Project – Triptico The origins of my interest in electronic music definitely came from the Lounge music era, with Buddha Bar being the most important to me. Especially volume 3 mixed by DJ Ravin. This specific track from Gotham Project literally opened a whole new world in my head, where I could potentially blend my jazz background with electronic music while adding an extra layer of atmosphere and emotion. Other influences were in the range of Hotel Coast, Siddharta, and similar. And not only jazz; it also taught me that we can use electronic music as a vehicle to transmit any kind of music, in this case, Argentinian Tango. This is the closest thing that took me to explore cross genres such as Afro Flamenco and Afro Batoucada. Quincy Jones – Birdland Digging even before the album I most listen to in my existence is Back On The Block by Quincy Jones. This is, to me, the best piece of music ever created in history. My dad actually got to record with him at Westlake Studios in LA back in the day and frequently plays with him in places like the Montreux Jazz Festival. I super recommend watching Quincy’s Netflix documentary where my dad is also featured. I chose this specific track of the album because it’s a completely ridiculous all-star cast, Quincy Jones. Performer · James Moody. Saxophone · Miles Davis. Trumpet · Dizzy Gillespie. Trumpet · George Benson.. And of course it won a Grammy! Nuyorican Soul – You Can Do It (Baby) This one was so hard, as the whole album was a complete masterpiece of art from Masters At Work. But this specific track was insane because it features George Benson jamming on an actual electronic music beat, clearly showing me I can totally work with my dad, who's a jazz guitarist, on electronic music productions. And exactly this happened, he now performs with me and plays on both my studio albums. deadmau5 & Kaskade – I Remember Over the years, as a bedroom DJ and relentless digital crate digger on the iTunes Store, I discovered this release that really marked my entire youth. This tune made it clear to me that what I most like about electronic music is the actual harmonic power of atmosphere. I had this tune on the iPod mini my dad had gifted me for my birthday, and it was literally my therapy track for whatever I could be going through. RaFa Orchestra – Your Beat Sounds Like (feat. Rasmus Faber) ABSOLUTE GENIUS track from Rasmus Faber with one of the most impressive Moog solos by Herbie Hancock. I’ve been writing this solo, note by note, and learning how to replicate it over the years. It is literally the track that made me want to learn the magic tricks of the Moog Solos, expressions, and pitch moves. And it is definitely the song that pushed me to actually perform this kind of solos on some of my studio album tracks, and also live perform them when I live performed those albums. The melodic theme is so deep that it could literally cure anything in my life. My play count in iTunes is various THOUSANDS. What links these records is not genre. It is intent. Each one carries weight. Emotion. A sense of purpose that goes beyond the dancefloor. That same thinking runs through ‘Sweet Desire’, where groove and space do the heavy lifting without needing to overreach. It is a reminder of something simple. Your sound is only as strong as what you build it on. Sparrow (CH) Instagram / Soundcloud / Spotify Tortuga Records Instagram / Soundcloud Explore more Influences: Influences archive · Hot Picks · All features
- UndrCtrl: Casper Schulz Delivers a Deep, Percussive Trip
Casper Schulz Following a standout release on SOSA’s COCO imprint last month, Norwegian DJ and producer Casper Schulz now joins the UndrCtrl mix series for edition 041. The mix arrives just weeks after his ‘Absurdity’ EP and brings the same stripped-back energy and late-night finesse. Buy/stream the EP here: https://ffm.to/coco044. A rising name within the European minimal and tech house scene, Schulz has been shaping his sound, focusing on subtle builds, rolling drums, and tight percussion. His latest EP, released on June 6th, featured two tracks: the warped, club-ready ‘Absurdity’ and the deeper, more atmospheric ‘He Wanted To Fly’. Both showcased his growing range and eye for the dancefloor. His UndrCtrl mix keeps that same energy. It’s a blend of tightly wound rhythms, moody textures, and groove-led selections that build and shift with intent. The mix features cuts from artists like Traumer, Michael James, Ray Mono and Cessy, as well as two unreleased IDs from Schulz himself, giving a glimpse into what’s coming next. Casper has already earned co-signs from the likes of SOSA and joined the bill for COCO’s Off Sonar showcase in Barcelona this summer. With his profile on the rise, this mix lands at the perfect time to showcase both his taste and vision. Tracklist: 01. Bryan Rizzitelli – Tab 320 02. Distilled Noise – Verona Posh 03. Traumer – Contropa 04. Casper Schulz – ID 05. Gsxtavo – Chuva 06. Ray Mono – First Contact 07. Ray Mono – Holdin’ It Down 08. Cessy – The Menace 09. Boss Priester – All My Life 10. Diskop – Doom 11. Traumer – Your Mind 12. Casper Schulz – ID 13. Michael James – Dance4Me 14. Unknown – 05 Untitled Track With UndrCtrl.041, Casper Schulz lays down a clear statement. His sound is dialled in, his selections sharp, and his identity as an artist is becoming unmistakable. Between the momentum of his ‘Absurdity’ EP and the depth of this mix, Schulz isn’t just building buzz, he’s building something with real weight. One to keep a very close eye on. Casper Schulz https://www.instagram.com/casprschlz https://open.spotify.com/artist/6nmGA5rM7vpTAaRdjLvpwA https://soundcloud.com/iamcaspr COCO https://www.instagram.com/cocobeatsuk https://soundcloud.com/cocobeatsuk Explore more UndrCtrl: UndrCtrl archive · Undrscovered · All DJ mixes
- Influences: Danny Snowden on the Records That Shaped His Sound
Danny Snowden Danny Snowden’s arrival on Hottrax with ‘Double Header’ feels well earned. His sound sits in a clear lineage. UK house, rave, and stripped-back club functionality, all tied together with a focus on groove and feel. You can hear it straight away in both tracks. Nothing forced. Nothing overworked. That approach doesn’t come out of nowhere. It’s built from years of listening, raving, and figuring out what actually works when you’re in the middle of a dancefloor. Danny's Influences playlist reflects that. Records that don’t just sound good, but hold weight over time. The kind you come back to without thinking. The System - You're In My System (Kerri Chandler Atmospheric Vocal) Maybe an obvious one, and I could have picked any track from Kerri – But, in my eyes, an absolute house classic – which has shaped me as a producer but also a music lover. Gat Decor - Passion (Naked Mix) Another absolute anthem – the pianos in this track changed my life – in my opinion, the epitome of an acid house hit! It sounded good back when it was released in 1996; it sounds just as good now and will sound good in another 30 years’ time. A Timeless masterpiece. Rob & Si - Just Add Water (Rob Pearson Remix) A bit deeper with this one – a track I wish I could play more in my sets – absolutely fell in love with the atmosphere and hypnotic vibes in this track. Never ever skip it, and it never gets boring to listen to. I lose myself in the repetitive groove – it's infectious. Cajmere - Percolator (Jamie Jones Vault Mix) Not sure this needs any introduction – one of the first tracks I really remember becoming obsessed with – one that really got me into house music and lit the spark of the undying passion I have for House music. Archie Hamilton - Telegram (Original Mix) Fuse London is another sound that really made a mark on me as a raver and producer. And this track from Archie Hamilton is definitely one of my favourites. A special mention has to go to Enzo Siragusa. (Bonus Track) Trevino - Eclipse Released on Ben Klock’s Klockworks, this track's euphoria is unmatched; the musicality in this track has heavily influenced how I make a lot of my music. There’s a clear thread running through all of these. Records built on groove first. Hooks that don’t rely on excess. Moments that come from restraint rather than overload. That’s exactly what you hear in his latest release, ‘Double Header’, out now on Hottrax. It doesn’t try to reinvent anything. It leans into what works. Proper drums, strong swing, and just enough character to make it stick. You can trace that mindset straight back to these tracks. And that’s exactly why it lands so well - as does a lot of his other releases. Danny Snowden Instagram / Soundcloud / Spotify Hottrax Instagram / Soundcloud / Twitter Explore more Influences: Influences archive · Hot Picks · All features
- Influences: Myselor Revisits Five Records That Shaped The World Behind ‘Cosmic Expression’
Myselor With his new album journey now underway through ‘Breaking Chains’, Myselor is opening the door to his most personal and expansive project to date. The first chapter of forthcoming 20-track album ‘Cosmic Expression’ introduces a world built around transformation, awareness and self-expression, moving far beyond the boundaries of conventional Drum & Bass and into something much broader in scope. That wider thinking has always sat at the centre of Myselor’s music. His productions often feel less like standalone tracks and more like environments that unfold over time, balancing cinematic storytelling with emotional depth and meticulous sound design. Rather than following trends, his work has consistently drawn from artists who explore music as a complete experience. For this edition of Influences, Myselor selects five records that shaped his outlook, not only as a producer but as a listener, with each one marking an important point in his own creative evolution. Steve Roach – Dream Body "I discovered 'Dream Body' by Steve Roach sometime between the ages of 19 and 21 and from the first listen I felt something no other piece of music had ever given me before. It felt as if someone was showing me glimpses of the world where I truly belong. This track has changed me deeply over the course of my life, almost like a psychedelic experience that continues expanding decades after its beginning. Steve Roach’s music always makes me feel safe, whole, and connected to an infinite current beyond the human ego. I often describe his presence as 'The Flow'." Robert Rich – Glassmaker's Sand "If anyone has truly gone down the rabbit hole of deep listening, it is Robert Rich. His music is difficult to describe because it feels less like composition and more like a bridge between the conscious and unconscious mind. 'Tactile Ground' remains my favorite album of his. It is impossible to choose just one track because the entire album feels like a single immersive journey, but 'Glassmaker’s Sand' is the piece that completely pulled me into unknown depths of perception. Robert Rich taught me what true exploration in music means, approaching the hidden parts of human experience with curiosity, openness and without judgment. I often describe his presence as 'The Mind'." Michael Stearns – The Terrible Beauty "Michael Stearns is the artist who consistently brings me closest to pure emotional experience through music. His cinematic approach to composition has deeply influenced the way I think about storytelling through shifting emotional states and dynamics. The Terrible Beauty is a complete sonic masterpiece, creating an intensely internal and transformative emotional journey. The way he moves through darker and lighter territories with such balance and sensitivity is extraordinary. Michael Stearns taught me how to express raw emotion with coherence, care and respect for the deeper ideas behind the music. I often describe his presence as 'The Earth'." Solar Fields – Life "Despite being Swedish, Solar Fields always felt perfectly connected to the sunny Greek landscapes where I grew up. 'Life' remains one of my favorite tracks and opens my favorite Solar Fields album 'Blue'. Its atmosphere deeply influenced the way I approach intros, outros and the sense of euphoric space within my music. You can clearly hear that influence in my track 'Univeralis'. Solar Fields helped transform the warmth and light of my personal experiences into sound, giving me a clearer language for expressing those emotions through immersive ambient textures." Telemetrik – Exit Civilization "'Exit Civilization' by Telemetrik was the track that made me realise there are infinite possibilities in Drum & Bass production. The continuous energy, the rising melodic progression from start to finish, the atmosphere, the psychedelic impact and the drums all come together to create a true masterpiece. Having listened to, and occasionally produced, a lot of psytrance, this track felt like a perfect blend of Psytrance and Drum & Bass. Alongside the album 'My Lightyear', it became a defining example of production approach, giving me confidence to trust unconventional ideas instead of following trends or formulaic dance music." Myselor’s selections feel less like a collection of favourite tracks and more like a map of the ideas behind ‘Cosmic Expression’. Across ambient music, cinematic composition and boundary-pushing Drum & Bass, each record shares a similar thread. They create worlds rather than moments. That same approach now sits at the centre of ‘Breaking Chains’ and the wider ‘Cosmic Expression’ project, where storytelling, atmosphere and emotional connection become every bit as important as rhythm and energy. Myselor Instagram - SoundCloud Evolution Chamber Instagram - Spotify - SoundCloud - YouTube Explore more Influences: Influences archive · Hot Picks · All features
- UNDRCTRL: Rising UK Talent Morgan Cole Joins our Mix Series!
It's been a minute, but we are back with another artist mix! Having signed his first EP to Patrick Topping’s Trick imprint at the end of 2020, Morgan Cole has had a strong 12 months since welcoming releases on Nervous, REALM, and Sola alongside track support from the likes of Richy Ahmed, Michael Bibi, PAWSA, and Eli Brown. Now, Jamie Jones’ esteemed Hottrax welcomes the 22-year-old talent with three-track, vibrating house EP ‘Initiate’. To celebrate the release of his latest EP, Morgan joins us as the next name to feature on our UNDRCTRL series! Buy/Stream 'Initiate': https://lnk.to/HXT080 Follow Hottrax: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hottraxlabel Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hottraxlabel Follow Us: https://linktr.ee/undrtoneblog Explore more UndrCtrl: UndrCtrl archive · Undrscovered · All DJ mixes
- Undrscovered: Leonor On Cultural Collisions, Instinct And His Remix For CHLOÉ + Guest Mix
Leonor The Paris club circuit has long shaped artists who understand tension. That lineage runs straight through Chloé Thévenin and her Lumiere Noire imprint, and now through Leonor, whose remix of ‘Distorted Dance’ lands as part of the new five-track EP. Built from a driving minimal framework, his version pushes into rave motifs and progressive techno structures without losing the track’s underlying pulse. It follows a breakout run that has seen the Guadalajara-born producer release on Lumiere Noire, AEON and Borders of Light, while earning support from Solomun, Dixon and Âme. The trajectory is clear, but the foundation runs deeper than recent momentum. “First of all thanks for inviting me to your platform, I was born in Guadalajara, raised in Texas and spend 10 years in France and now back to Mexico. So yes throughout my life I have experienced many types of music from regional, hip hop, rock, disco to many native music from the Yaqui and Seri community. So yes definitely you can hear in this mix many cultures colliding.” That collision sits at the core of his Undrscovered guest mix. Across acid lines, ethno textures and darker new wave tones, the thread is movement. Leonor refuses to lock himself into one lane. “I have always considered myself a very versatile DJ as well as producer. When I do a dj mix live is different from recording one for a podcast at home. I love living all my energy on the dance floor when playing to people live. In this case recording this mix at home the feeling is different a live mix is for one moment and the recorded mix is registered for the audience to play it as many times as they want, so I feel there is a bit more of a pressure to make the mix more suitable for the ear so I lean into more light tracks with more vocals, more dynamic that way people can hear it anywhere.” That balance between energy and control mirrors his production catalogue. Early downtempo experiments evolved into full dancefloor material, opening doors to labels across the spectrum, including My Favourite Robot and Toolroom. “As I commented in the last question, I’m a very versatile producer, in my beginning I produced downtempo tracks that range from 90 to 105 bpm. Later, I decided to make my tracks for the dancefloor, so I started experimenting with different sounds. All this has helped me release in many different Labels and genres.” High-profile support has followed, but it has not altered his creative process. “I’m very grateful to have artist of that calibre showing support to my music and obviously yes it helps me to do better and push myself to give a better product to the listeners. Now in my studio when I produce, I produce from how I’m feeling one day I can produce a dark submissive track like ‘YO SOY’ or ‘SENSEI’ another day I can make a track full of happy sequences like ‘TIME’ or ‘XANTOLO’. At the end is all for the love of music.” That instinctive mindset defines his DJ philosophy. Preparation takes a back seat to reaction. “This mix I let my instinct take over I never prepare my set list when I mix. As the great Laurent Garnier once said in an interview ‘is not the DNA of being a DJ’. It’s easy to prepare a set list at home anybody can do that. Is all about improvisation! You have to tell a different story in your mix every time. Hope you all enjoy this journey.” Remixing also follows that same open framework. Having seen his own tracks reworked by names such as Sascha Funke and Damon Jee, he values interpretation over control. “I tell every artist that has remixed my music to have freedom in their interpretation. Now someone like Sacha Funke, Lauer, Damon Jee and other big names I can only sit back and enjoy their talent. I’m extremely thankful for every artist that took their time to remix my music.” As mid and downtempo techno edges further into the mainstream, Leonor remains detached from forecasting trends. “I’m a person that lives in the present, the past and future are things that really don’t have an impact on me. As for the scene, I’m happy where is at there seems to be more festivals, and more collectives that are making electronic events. Just I it’s starting to become more mainstream as well big corporations behind all this. At the end is the music that transcends. Yes, now is easier to produce and yes dj selection has become more about popularity than talent. But it is what it is! enjoying every day like is the last one.” With his Lumiere Noire remix landing alongside contributions from Hannah Holland and Miles J Paralysis, and an Undrscovered mix that captures the full scope of his influences, Leonor continues to carve a lane defined by instinct, cultural breadth and dancefloor narrative. Leonor https://www.instagram.com/yosoyleonor https://open.spotify.com/artist/2UIfcJCEdtsu88LBnIQ3sY https://soundcloud.com/leonoroficial Explore more Undrscovered: Undrscovered archive · UndrCtrl · All DJ mixes
- Influences: Niilas on the Tracks That Shaped the Sound of ‘Nama Haga’
Niilas Norwegian artist Niilas returns with his latest album ‘Nama Haga’, out now. The multidisciplinary Bergen producer continues to blur boundaries between club music, sound art and experimental electronics while weaving in the cultural depth of his indigenous Sámi heritage. ‘Nama Haga’, which translates to “untitled” from Northern Sámi, reflects Niilas’ distinctive sonic universe. The record balances melancholic atmospheres with playful sound design, combining broken rhythms, house energy and delicate melodic detail. Tracks like ‘Crossroads’ and ‘Team Rokket’ explore freeform rhythmic spaces, while ‘Can Dance’ leans into warm, jazz-tinged house grooves. Elsewhere, the album drifts through slow-burning moments such as ‘Jämtland’ and the intimate lullaby ‘Bye Bye’, revealing a project that moves fluidly between dancefloor pulse and reflective listening. Niilas’ work extends far beyond traditional club spaces. He has performed at festivals such as Øya Festival and cultural institutions including Tate Modern, Henie Onstad Kunstsenter and Munch Museum. He also featured in the acclaimed multimedia project TAKKUUK by BICEP, contributing both visually and musically. For this Influences feature, Niilas highlights five tracks that shaped his creative approach, from early electronic discoveries to genre-defying productions that changed the way he understood sound design and sampling. Arms And Sleepers - Kepesh “This is probably the track that made me get into electronic producing. Up until that point, I had only been playing physical instruments and could not wrap my head around how these sounds were made. I recently picked up listening to the whole album again, and it still stands on its own.” Burial - South London Boroughs “Burial shaped a generation of producers and artists, me included. This track really got me tuned into club music and DJing. I found it when I was exploring the SoundCloud deconstructed club scene, and it opened my eyes to genre-bending and sampling on a different level.” Tool - The Pot “I discovered this track after googling ‘cool guitar riff’ when I was about fourteen during Christmas break. Living through the polar night with almost no daylight, I was learning guitar and searching for inspiration online. Tool stuck with me, and they are still my favourite band.” Toe - グッドバイ (Goodbye) “This track and album were constant listening when I was learning electronic production while still obsessing over guitar playing. Eventually, the production side took over, but I am trying to return to instruments again these days.” Susumu Yokota - Long Long Silk Bridge “This album is a sampling masterclass and changed how I see electronic music. At first, I thought it was a studio recording and tried to analyse it that way. When I realised most of the sounds were sampled, it completely shifted my perspective. Sampling is its own art form and can create something greater than the sum of its parts.” Niilas’ influences reveal a creative journey shaped by curiosity rather than genre boundaries. From experimental electronica to progressive rock and intricate guitar music, each discovery expanded the way he approached production. That openness runs throughout ‘Nama Haga’. The album blends club rhythms, ambient textures and melodic experimentation while carrying the emotional depth of Sámi cultural identity. Rather than fitting neatly within a single category, Niilas continues to create music that sits between worlds. The result is a body of work that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant, reflecting an artist who treats sound not just as music, but as a form of storytelling and exploration. Niilas Instagram - Soundcloud - Spotify Explore more Influences: Influences archive · Hot Picks · All features
- Undrscovered: Leo Sanderson Brings Piano-Fuelled Euphoria and 90s Rave Spirit
Leo Sanderson Manchester-based DJ, producer, and Afterdark label boss Leo Sanderson joins the Undrscovered mix series with a set packed full of 90s euphoria, piano-driven energy, and rave nostalgia. Fresh off his new ‘Gonna Be Me / You Know House’ EP on Tjade’s Agrio Tracks, Leo’s mix captures the same uplifting spirit and crowd-focused energy that’s quickly defining his sound. “I’ve always been drawn to the piano, it’s where my love for music began,” Leo tells us. “My sound grew out of experimenting, chasing that raw 90s energy but giving it my own twist. I love making music that feels nostalgic yet fresh.” That combination of heartfelt melody and club-ready groove has been a constant across his releases, from ‘Check Dis Out’ on Happy Feelings Records to a string of self-released cuts that have been turning heads across the UK and the Netherlands. But behind the music lies a journey that started young. “I started DJing around 15 or 16,” he says. “I’d play my own mixes at college every day to friends. Music was always my escape, my way out, and those early sets were the spark that made me want to take it seriously.” That early passion still runs through every set. “My sets are all about energy and connection. I want the crowd to feel like we’re on the same journey. It’s not just me playing tracks, it’s about creating a moment that feels alive.” Leo’s sound is rooted in the euphoric essence of the 90s, a time when house music was pure feeling. He cites N-Joi’s ‘Anthem’ and Gat Decor’s ‘Passion’ as key influences. “There’s just something about those songs that instantly hook you in,” he says. “I want my music to have that same effect, to be the track people remember from the night.” That focus on timelessness is echoed in his new EP for Agrio Tracks, a label fast becoming a launchpad for emerging talent. With lush pads, infectious basslines, and iconic vocal samples, the release showcases Leo’s flair for crafting feel-good club moments that hit both heart and hips. When it comes to his creative process, Leo keeps it instinctive. “Track selection is all about reading the crowd. I always think, what would I want to hear if I was on the dancefloor right now? It’s about keeping people locked in, surprising them, and making sure they never forget that set.” The Undrscovered mix is no exception. Across an hour, Leo blends 90s piano house, old-school influences, hard house energy, and a few curveballs, plus some of his own originals. “I wanted to show how versatile I am,” he explains. “When people come to see me play, I want them to feel like they never fully know what’s coming next.” This past year has been one of growth and milestones, not least his Amsterdam debut at Lofi. “It was an unreal experience. I even brought my girlfriend out to perform live vocals, which made it even more special. The energy of that day was like nothing I’ve ever felt before.” Looking ahead, Leo’s focus is firmly on building his catalogue and breaking into more international gigs. “I’ve been getting a lot of requests to come back to the Netherlands. For me, it’s about that first breakthrough booking that sets off the domino effect.” His advice to newcomers is simple. “Don’t compare yourself to others, everyone’s on a different stage. And don’t be a sheep. Stick to the sound you love. If you build on that, people will eventually recognise it.” Leo Sanderson’s Undrscovered mix is a love letter to classic house and a snapshot of where the new wave of UK producers is heading. Soulful, high-energy, and rooted in feeling. Leo Sanderson https://www.instagram.com/leo_sandersondj https://open.spotify.com/artist/6DmeSo6DXIu9Qe5tKfvybF https://soundcloud.com/user-623622511 Agrio Tracks https://www.instagram.com/agrio.tracks https://soundcloud.com/tjadedj Explore more Undrscovered: Undrscovered archive · UndrCtrl · All DJ mixes
- Undrscovered: Kirsty Brings Old School Hardcore Into A New Generation
Kirsty Every scene has artists who follow trends, and others who quietly build something that feels entirely their own. Irish DJ and producer Kirsty belongs firmly in the second category. Drawing inspiration from classic hardcore and gabber while refusing to soften its intensity, she has quickly become one of the most exciting emerging names pushing the sound into a new generation. Her productions blend old school rave energy with modern production, while her DJ sets thrive on unpredictability, nostalgia and relentless momentum. Her journey into electronic music started much earlier than many might expect. Growing up surrounded by the sounds of The Prodigy and Scooter thanks to her father, those records planted the seeds for what would eventually become her own musical identity. "I grew up listening to The Prodigy and Scooter playing around the house by my Dad," she says. "That's had a huge influence on what I play to this day." After teaching herself to DJ through YouTube tutorials and countless hours of practice, she worked her way from local Irish clubs to some of Europe's fastest-growing hard dance events. Recent appearances at XXL Malta and Second Speed have marked major milestones in that journey. "I've just come home from playing three different sets at XXL Malta," she says. "Seeing so many people fill the stages to see me was a real eye opener. I don't think it'll fully sink in for another few weeks." For her Undrscovered mix, Kirsty delivers exactly what has made her one of hardcore's most exciting rising talents. Rather than following one lane, she stitches together gabber, donk, hardcore and rave classics into a set that constantly surprises. "I like to play classic hardcore songs and add new twists to them," she explains. "You'll hear donk layered with gabber for example. I don't want people to be able to expect what's coming next." That same philosophy extends into her own productions. "My sound is old school hardcore with a new raw sound." One track perfectly captures where she currently sits creatively. "My track 'HOTCORE SUMMER' describes where I'm at to a T right now. Heavy bass gabber with a catchy vocal and euphoric breaks. It's almost like I've captured my entire sets into one song." Despite the growing momentum, Kirsty remains deeply connected to the culture that first drew her towards gabber. Community continues to sit at the heart of everything she does, both online and on the dancefloor. "I never wanted to become an influencer," she says. "I want to talk to people as people, not robots behind a screen. That's why I love going into the crowd and dancing before and after my sets." Behind every set also sits hours of digging. "I think I have almost 300 playlists on SoundCloud, all organised by different moods and genres," she laughs. "There's definitely an easier way to do it, but that's what works for me." Looking ahead, there's plenty more to come. Her forthcoming collaboration with GO$PEL, 'DOUBLE TROUBLE', already features inside this mix and previews another step forward in her evolving sound. "It's loud as fuck and crazy," she says. "Pretty much sums us up." With major festival appearances, international Teletech dates and a growing catalogue of original music on the horizon, Kirsty continues to prove that hardcore's next generation doesn't need to abandon its roots to move forward. If this mix is any indication, she's only getting started. Kirsty https://www.instagram.com/kirsty.dj https://open.spotify.com/artist/3OBEuov8Fe0tVpWVvGzoh8 https://soundcloud.com/djkirsty Explore more Undrscovered: Undrscovered archive · UndrCtrl · All DJ mixes
- Undrscovered: MF Quinn Bridges Classic House Influences With a Modern Club Edge
MF Quinn For the 14th instalment of Undrscovered, we welcome US house producer and DJ MF Quinn, an artist currently turning years of musical curiosity into an increasingly focused run of releases. Quinn’s relationship with electronic music stretches back well before the current project began gathering momentum. After initially exploring production, he stepped away to focus on a career in software engineering and app development before returning to music during the pandemic. What followed was less a simple restart than a period of rebuilding, refining his production process and working out exactly what he wanted MF Quinn to represent. “I’m a house producer and DJ. The simplest way to describe my sound is classic house and tech house instincts presented through a modern lens,” he explains. “I’m drawn to groovy basslines, percussion with swing, disco and funk influences, and vocal phrases that stay with you after the record ends.” That balance between familiarity and forward movement runs throughout his Undrscovered mix. Across 20 tracks in just under an hour, Quinn moves between vocal house, tech house, disco influences and tougher percussive territory, drawing connections between some of the artists who shaped his tastes and the direction his own productions are now taking. “I wanted it to feel like a focused hour in a club: energetic, confident and ultimately uplifting,” he says. “The goal was to cover a broad definition of house while making it feel like one continuous journey rather than a collection of tracks.” The names involved tell part of that story. Smokin Jo, D.Ramirez, Mark Knight, James Hurr, Grant Nelson, Deetron, Marco Lys, David Morales and Tony Romera all appear across the set, but one record carries considerably more personal significance. Quinn’s remix of Smokin Jo and D.Ramirez’s ‘Inner Mind’ arrives via Toolroom Trax as part of its Leaders of the New School compilation. Having previously studied through Toolroom Academy and D.Ramirez’s Raven Studios courses, the release creates a direct connection between the artists and institutions that helped develop his production skills and the music he is now putting into the world. “The original gave me a lot of great material to work with, but I chose one vocal motif and made that the identity of my version,” he explains. “For me, it captures how I’m taking those influences forward rather than trying to recreate them.” That idea has become increasingly important as the MF Quinn catalogue expands. Alongside Toolroom Trax, forthcoming material across Play Records, World of Sound, NOXU Deep and WH Records is beginning to reveal different sides of his music without losing the central characteristics connecting them. “It’s house and tech house built around groove, with disco and funk running through it,” he says. “The drums and bass provide the physical movement, while a vocal phrase or sampled texture usually gives the record its identity.” Increasingly, Quinn is also finding that less can achieve more. Rather than continually adding elements, his attention has shifted towards repetition, tension and making sure every sound has a reason to exist. “I’m learning how much impact can come from choosing the right few elements and allowing them enough room to work.” That discipline extends beyond production. With music sitting alongside family life and a career outside the industry, studio time has to be deliberate. Rather than seeing that solely as a restriction, Quinn believes it has also protected him from some of the pressures facing emerging artists. “There is constant pressure to release, create content, compare numbers and respond to whatever is currently gaining attention,” he says. “Some of that information is useful, but it can also pull you away from the instincts that made you want to create in the first place.” His response has been to focus less on keeping pace and more on building something recognisable. Hosting MQ Sessions on Data Transmission has provided another outlet for that process, allowing him to develop his identity as a DJ and programmer while showing the broader musical world surrounding his productions. It is also reflected in the way he digs for records. Label catalogues and DJ charts might provide the starting point, but Quinn tends to follow connections between artists, remixers and collaborators rather than simply searching within fixed genres. More importantly, every potential selection is considered in terms of what it can contribute to a wider set. “Could it establish the mood, create a vocal moment, increase the pressure or provide a release after a tougher section?” he explains. “That way of listening often leads me across house, tech house, disco and more percussive club records without feeling tied to one narrow category.” His Undrscovered mix puts that philosophy into practice. The opening stretch establishes its more musical and vocal foundations before gradually increasing the pressure, moving through chunkier percussion and hypnotic grooves before lifting once again towards its conclusion. For Quinn, it arrives during a period where individual opportunities are beginning to connect into something more substantial. The releases are growing, his relationship with labels is developing and the distinction between his influences and his own identity is becoming increasingly clear. “They should expect the MF Quinn identity to become clearer rather than suddenly change direction,” he says of what comes next. “The goal is to build a body of work that people can recognise without needing to see my name first.” That might be the clearest way to understand where MF Quinn currently stands. This is not about abandoning the house records that first inspired him or attempting to disguise those reference points. It is about absorbing them, understanding why they worked and gradually finding his own place within that lineage. Undrscovered 014 captures that process in motion: an hour of house music connecting where MF Quinn came from with where he intends to go next. MF Quinn https://www.instagram.com/mf.quinn.music https://open.spotify.com/artist/18INpb1istCFezVdaZCxmF https://soundcloud.com/mf_quinn Explore more Undrscovered: Undrscovered archive · UndrCtrl · All DJ mixes
- Undrscovered: Alden Song Bridges New York House Roots With LA Club Energy
Alden Song Alden Song’s relationship with house music began long before he stepped behind a set of decks. Raised in New York City by a DJ father and singer mother, he grew up surrounded by the records, venues and personalities that shaped the city’s club culture. His father served as general manager of Cielo, the much loved Manhattan venue that became an important home for underground electronic music. That proximity gave Song an early understanding of house music as both a sound and a community. “My father was a DJ and my mom was a singer. Both of them were very involved in the New York City club scene, my father being the GM of Cielo. When I was young, I was always surrounded by music and house music culture so, I naturally gravitated towards it.” More than a decade later, those New York foundations remain central to his identity. His productions and DJ sets connect samples carrying the character of ’90s house with the tighter drums and driving low end of contemporary house and tech house. That meeting point sits at the centre of his Undrscovered mix. Across 14 tracks, Song brings together records from Local Dub, George Smeddles, Us Two, Luke Alessi, RUZE and The Trip, alongside two unreleased productions from his own catalogue. “I wanted to showcase what I would be playing for one of my own sets. Oftentimes when you DJ, a part of you wants to please the crowd to make them dance. This mix is a collection of records that I would like to hear on the dance floor.” The mix opens with Local Dub’s ‘Push Ya Back’ before Max Chapman’s ‘Twenty Ten’ and ‘Kente Flow’ from Marco Lys, Supernova and House Of Molly establish its rolling house direction. From there, Song moves through stripped back percussion, vocal fragments and elastic basslines without allowing the pace to drift. His two unreleased IDs provide the clearest indication of where his production sound is heading. Both have become regular fixtures in his live sets, sitting naturally among records chosen for their direct dancefloor impact. “I love making music strictly for the dance floor. I ask myself the question, "what would I want to hear when I'm dancing?” and that's the vibe I go off of.” That instinct also informs the way Song searches for music. Rather than limiting himself to charts or prominent releases, he traces connections between artists, collaborators and remixers until he finds records that feel less familiar. “Going down the rabbit hole to find records that nobody has or tracks that speak to me is the best part.” A recent move from New York to Los Angeles has brought another shift in perspective. Song has become a resident for underground after hours collective Utopia LA, placing him inside a different club community while expanding his reach across the East and West Coasts. His recent schedule has included an appearance at EDC 2026, adding to earlier performances at Cielo, Space Ibiza New York and Marquee New York. Time spent attending festivals and playing underground showcases in Los Angeles has also helped him refine the sound he wants to pursue. “I recently moved to LA, and my experience here has developed me in such new ways. I feel like I’m really coming into myself and discovering my sound.” Song has also taken another step forward with a new EP on Material Series. More independent and label releases are planned, with the two unreleased tracks inside this mix offering an early preview of what will follow. Breaking through an increasingly crowded field remains difficult, but Song believes his performances continue to create his strongest opportunities. “All of my biggest opportunities have come from people hearing me play and I think that’s my greatest strength.” His Undrscovered mix makes that strength easy to understand. Rooted in New York house culture, sharpened through his experiences in Los Angeles and built entirely with the dancefloor in mind, it captures an artist finding his place through the music he genuinely wants to play. Alden Song https://www.instagram.com/dj_alden https://open.spotify.com/artist/2iSDVdymYs9SYIKZPGelNC https://soundcloud.com/user-77867187 Explore more Undrscovered: Undrscovered archive · UndrCtrl · All DJ mixes
- Undrscovered: DJ Du Jour Connects Classic House With Modern Club Energy
DJ Du Jour DJ Du Jour has spent more than two decades learning how music can change the energy of a room. Originally from Australia and now based in Europe, the DJ and producer brings that experience to Undrscovered with a mix shaped by classic house, modern tech house and her instinct for an unexpected vocal. Her relationship with electronic music began on the dancefloor before developing behind the decks. Immersing herself in Sydney’s club scene led to a victory in the Sydney Mardi Gras DJ Competition, a result that gave her early confirmation that DJing could become more than an interest. “It started on the dancefloor long before it started in a studio. I fell in love with what DJing could do to a room – the way energy could shift completely with a single well-timed record.” That connection between selector and crowd continues to guide her sound. DJ Du Jour builds sets around physical movement, but groove alone rarely tells the whole story. Recognisable vocals, emotional releases and live mashups bring another dimension to her house and tech house foundations. Her Undrscovered mix offers a clear introduction to that approach. Opening with her forthcoming production ‘Feel The Bass’, the set moves through new club records, established house references and several of her own edits. Tracks from James Hurr, Wh0, Demi Riquísimo, Luke Alessi, Girls Don’t Sync and Piero Pirupa sit alongside reworked material from Michael Jackson, Florence & The Machine, The Black Eyed Peas and Technotronic. “I wanted it to feel like a proper journey – something that builds with real intention rather than just stringing together bangers. It opens with ‘Feel The Bass,’ which sets the tone immediately – driving, focused, straight to the point.” The mashups prove central to the mix rather than functioning as quick moments of recognition. ‘Lola’s Sweet Nothing’ combines The Shapeshifters with Florence & The Machine, capturing DJ Du Jour’s preference for placing familiar records in less predictable surroundings. “Taking The Shapeshifters and weaving Florence & The Machine through it is the kind of unexpected, emotionally charged move that feels very me. It's rooted in classic house, but it does something you didn't see coming.” That balance also shapes her production work. ‘Feel The Bass’ previews the direction of her next release, while her unreleased ‘Billie Jean’ remix filters one of pop music’s most recognisable vocals through her own house framework. These ideas arrive after several defining milestones. DJ Du Jour has performed before approximately 24,000 people at Sydney World Pride and appeared at Glitterbox, Defected, Beyond The Valley, Let Them Eat Cake and ChillOut Festival. International dates have taken her to Ibiza, Spain and the UK, while her move to Europe has opened a new chapter. Relocating has also required her to rebuild connections in an unfamiliar market. “Moving to Europe meant starting a lot of conversations over – name recognition doesn't travel automatically, regardless of what you've built elsewhere. As a female artist in electronic music there's also still a layer of having to prove yourself technically in ways male peers often don't.” DJ Du Jour is now preparing to release ‘Feel The Bass’ alongside further European appearances, particularly across Spain and the UK. With her productions becoming more defined and her live schedule expanding, this Undrscovered mix captures an artist establishing her place within a new scene without abandoning the experiences that shaped her. DJ Du Jour https://www.instagram.com/djdujour https://open.spotify.com/artist/2XHlLmuHzKewA3p6imYtzN https://soundcloud.com/djdujourofficial Explore more Undrscovered: Undrscovered archive · UndrCtrl · All DJ mixes











