Kaufmann Kaufmann’s Hot Picks selection traces a clear line back to her roots in Germany’s rave culture. Raised on long nights in clubs, warehouses, and improvised spaces beneath motorway bridges, her musical language was formed early through repetition, intensity, and shared energy rather than genre boundaries. That openness still defines her sound today, moving freely between techno, trance, and psychedelic influences while staying firmly dancefloor-focused. Now over a decade into her creative journey, and releasing her own material since 2020, Kaufmann has developed a signature that has earned releases on Drumcode, Stil Vor Talent, Iboga, Truesoul, and more. Her contribution to Drumcode’s A Sides Vol.14, ‘People Are Strange’, captures that evolution, blending dramatic atmosphere with forward momentum and emotional tension. Buy/Stream via your preferred platform here: https://drumcode.ffm.to/dc340. The tracks collected here offer insight into the references behind that record. From formative rave memories to songs that directly influenced its textures and mood, this playlist reflects a producer shaped by feeling first, and a deep respect for the culture that raised her. Adana Twins – Strange “I remember how hard this hit me when I heard Solomun play it. It shaped me from the very beginning and will always be part of my journey.” 311 – Amber “The guitars inspired the synth for ‘People Are Strange’. It has this summertime sadness vibe that I really love.” Zen Mechanics – Artificial Sunset “I wanted to make a track like this, but couldn’t get it right, so I added a synth and vocals. Zen Mechanics, please release this.” Kit Sebastian – People Are Strange “If you ever get tired of my version of ‘People Are Strange’, please check this one out.” Patti Smith – Gloria “I often link The Doors and Patti Smith. She described Jim Morrison as both self-conscious and supremely confident, and I really like that contrast.” Ace Ventura – Presence (Interactive Noise Remix) “I played this in my first Fusion set. It shows how epic soundscapes and full-on dancefloor energy can work together.” The Doors – Soul Kitchen “Jim Morrison’s lyrics always remind me of a night out. And Ray Manzarek’s organ line is just perfect.” Harvey McKay – Lost “This was part of my first rave steps. Releasing on the same label more than ten years later feels really special.” Taito – Lobotomy (San Nicolas Remix) “This is underground, how I like it. Deep, trippy, and hard to find. It’s in nearly every set I play right now.” Andfølk – Rollin’ “I played this in my Boom set this year. It feels timeless and somehow reminds me of the seventies.” Kaufmann’s Hot Picks reads as both a personal archive and a creative map. Each selection reflects the emotional pull, intensity, and psychedelic curiosity that continue to shape her sound, rather than a rigid allegiance to genre. As ‘People Are Strange’ lands on Drumcode and places her firmly within its A-Sides lineage, this playlist offers context to the instincts behind it. Rooted in rave culture, driven by feeling and always aimed at the dancefloor, it captures an artist still deeply connected to where it all began. Kaufmann Instagram - Spotify - Soundcloud Drumcode Instagram - Soundcloud - Beatport Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

Kevin Knapp Kevin Knapp has always moved with intent. From Oakland roots to global dancefloors, his sound balances raw club pressure with a deep emotional pull. Drawing from hip hop, house, and groove-led culture, he has built a body of work that feels physical without losing soul. Releases on DIRTYBIRD, Repopulate Mars, Cuttin Headz and Factory 93 have cemented his reputation, while Plump Records remains a space where his instincts run free. His new single ‘Voice Notes’ continues that thread. Tight drums drive the momentum, spoken fragments flicker through the mix, and moments of calm give way to late-night heat. It is a record that trusts feel over flash, made for rooms where connection matters. For this edition of Hot Picks, Kevin shares the records that shape his sets and mindset. These are tracks built on groove, attitude and trust between the DJ and dancefloor. “I chose the following tracks to share, in part, to amplify the fact that I feel that they need to be heard. Additionally, I’ve finally accepted that my personal taste for music, my perspective, is just an insatiability for whatever is dope that is on the horizon. What’s the next sick cut I can get my hands on? These are all fixtures in my proverbial record bag at the moment. I hope you enjoy!” Karizma - ‘Summer (Eh Yo)’ “Stripped back and ancestral feeling. When that clap lands, the swag goes through the roof.” Anti Up - ‘I Cannot’ “Thunder with just the right amount of punk edge. They never miss for me.” Silvertone (US), Apollo (GR) - ‘Disco Stick & Apollo’ “I love the brevity of the lyric. Dance music does not always need to be so serious.” AMPRS&ND - ‘Sorry’ “I have played this every set for six months. Laid back but heavy. It builds trust with the room.” Noizu - ‘Snapped Up’ “High energy without overdoing it. Perfect after a steady run of bass.” Soji (US) - ‘Murda’ “Punchy perfection. If you are not moving to this, I am questioning things.” Nathan Barato - ‘House Is Burning’ “My wife sent me this. The Talking Heads flip caught me off guard. Those vocal cuts are genius.” Jho Roscioli - ‘Truth Or Dare’ “Sexy, saucy, and confident. That 80s palette done right.” Ciclo - ‘Bass Dealer’ “Stripped back with attitude. No filler. Just vibe.” Olive F - ‘Knuckle Sandwich’ “Old school house energy. A reminder of why we are all here.” Kevin Knapp’s ‘Voice Notes’ lands on Plump Records as another chapter in a career built on groove, honesty and connection. These Hot Picks reflect the same mindset. Music that earns trust, holds tension, and moves people without forcing the moment. Kevin Knapp Instagram / Soundcloud / Facebook Plump Records Instagram / Soundcloud / Facebook Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

David Mayer David Mayer has spent years building bridges between emotion and rhythm. The Berlin-based producer and SONARA co-founder blends deep grooves with global influences, a sound shaped by his multicultural background and refined through releases on labels like Objektivity, Connected Frontline, and Keinemusik. His music radiates warmth, colour, and soul while never losing its focus on the dancefloor. Following his collaboration with Nico Stojan and vocalist Nes Mburu on ‘Luhya’, Mayer continues to elevate SONARA’s vision of music that moves both body and spirit. The track’s rolling bassline, organic percussion, and spiritual energy mark another high point for the label’s growing catalogue of emotive, melodic house. For this edition of Hot Picks, David shares the records inspiring his sets and studio work right now. From the hypnotic beauty of Tooker’s ‘Coda’ and Bun Xapa’s irresistible bootleg of ‘Million Dollar Baby’ to Culoe De Song’s powerful ‘Guardian Tongue’, every track reflects the soulful depth and craftsmanship that define his sound. Tooker - Coda ft. Winyo [SONARA Records] I witnessed firsthand how this tune began as an instrumental and evolved after Winyo brought his extraordinary vocals to it. Sometimes, just when you think something is done, something new happens that makes it whole. Sitting next to Tooker as he made his final touches created a special bond I share with this tune. It was released recently as our SONARA debut, along with mine and Nico Stojan’s “Nano,” marking the beginning of a new chapter. Tommy Richman - Million Dollar Baby (Big Bad Bunny Bootleg) [Bun Xapa] When I heard Hyenah play this live recently, I immediately identified it as an irresistible highlight. I couldn’t help but ask for the ID. It’s a beautifully crafted edit by Bun Xapa — a couple of months old but still fresh in my crate. Casa Mata - Calypso [Madorasindahouse] This tune is an example of excellent craftsmanship. It animates the crowd noticeably and checks all the boxes of a contemporary record. Madorasindahouse has been an amazing partner on my journey and is behind many of my favourite releases. Nico Stojan & David Mayer - Luhya feat. Nes Mburu [SONARA Records] For this list, I couldn’t possibly leave this one out. The process has been a passionate journey from start to finish. We began with a cowbell loop and heavy bass drop, then reached out to Nes Mburu — who loved it. When we heard the vocals, the whole team was ecstatic. We’re thrilled to see it coming out in October 2025. KEENE - Villa Lucre Jazz Club [Cacao Records] Musically, this takes me back to when my passion for intricate house music began. KEENE keeps pushing boundaries like this, and I love it. Lopezhouse, Lannakise - Scorpio Rising (Jonathan Kaspar Remix) [Kompakt] Jonathan Kaspar is one of my absolute favourite producers, and this remix shows exactly why. Sascha Funke - MZ (Pional Remix) [Turbo Recordings] The original is an impressive piece of art, unmatched in its sound. When this remix came along, it hit me hard — a deep, gritty, and driving update that’s pure Pional brilliance. Manybeat - The Gypsy Woman [Tortuga] This one’s been resonating with me for a while. I love breaking up my sets with grooves like this — it honours the original while taking it somewhere completely new. Merzzy, Re.You, Diana Ela - Zou Zou [Vinyl On Demand] Checks all the boxes for a modern record that fits perfectly into my sound. Culoe De Song - Guardian Tongue [Madorasindahouse] My friend Harrys from Madorasindahouse shared Culoe De Song’s album “The Konspiracy Theory” with me early, and I was blown away by its raw energy. When he asked me to remix a track, I chose the outro “Guardian Tongue.” It felt adventurous, and my remix is set for release on November 7th. David Mayer, Nico Stojan, and Nes Mburu’s ‘Luhya’ lands October 20 on SONARA Records, continuing the label’s journey into melodic, organic, and emotionally driven house music. Mayer’s selections highlight a producer deeply rooted in feeling, connection, and authenticity. Whether through the warmth of Afro-inspired grooves or the finesse of European deep house, his focus remains on music that unites people on the floor. David Mayer https://www.instagram.com/david_mayer https://open.spotify.com/artist/7Mf7RKErlQ5maEdHTXNexf https://soundcloud.com/david-michael-mayer Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

GruuvElement’s GruuvElement’s builds music for bodies first. Born in Romania and now established across Europe’s club circuit, he has earned his name on labels like Solid Grooves, elrow Music, Moan and Mindshake through a sound that always puts rhythm at the centre. His productions lean into tribal percussion, warm bass pressure, and vocals that feel close enough to touch. His new EP on Massi Rocket’s Motel Calypso Records pushes that identity further. ‘Thriller’ opens with off-grid drums and a pulsing low end wrapped in silky male vocals, while ‘Perfect’ turns up the energy with rolling pads, chopped flows and playful trumpet hooks. These are the records shaping his sets and studio mindset right now... Sergio Parrado - ‘Don’t Stop’ [8bit Records] “A very nice techno track that reminds me of the Dancetrippin TV days when they filmed at Space Ibiza. I love it.” Julian Collazos, Vanjee - ‘Rumba’ [Moon Harbour] “A groovy Latin track with Spanish vocals that I love.” Sivz - ‘Mad Man Thing’ [Mood Child] “Very groovy bass. Makes you move straight away.” Albert Marzinotto, Davie - ‘Jammin’ To The Beat’ [Till AM] “Something classic in the groove. I love the bassline, the vocal, everything. It’s pure energy.” Spektrum - ‘Kinda New’ (Funkerman Remix) [Altra Moda Music] “Fresh, funky house that always lifts the room.” Marian - ‘Take-O’ [Organic Pieces] “One of my favourite producers. I love the basslines, the percussion, everything.” GruuvElement’s - ‘Euphoric’ [Mindshake Records] “One of my favourite tracks that I’ve made. Groovy and made for the people.” Chicca Leaf - ‘Stick N Hop’ [Paul’s Boutique] “Great rhythm and the vocal is on another level.” DJ Snake & J Balvin - ‘Noventa’ (Tony Romera Extended Remix) “No words for what Tony did here. One of my favourites from him.” Lucho M - ‘Nowey’ [Mood Child] “Big groove. The bassline and elements make it stand out.” GruuvElement’s ‘Thriller’ EP lands on Motel Calypso Records on 28 November 2025. This release continues a run built on rhythm, instinct and physical connection rather than trends. His Hot Picks show where that energy comes from. GruuvElement’s https://www.instagram.com/gruuvelements https://open.spotify.com/artist/3hqAkng6qZQZCkLkAFZSdf https://soundcloud.com/gruuvelements Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

BLND BLND, aka Callum and Thomas, have built their name by channelling the spirit of 2010s deep house and reshaping it for now. Influenced by the swing and looseness of Jamie Jones, Lee Foss and Hot Since 82, the pair have landed on Manchester imprint Libero and picked up support from Marco Carola along the way. Their sound is groove first. Stripped back but full of intent. Now they link with Sirolf for a four-track EP that balances shadowy tech house pressure with flashes of UKG bounce and emotionally charged vocals. ‘Style Is Rude feat. Sirolf’ opens with sparse drums, organ flickers and smoky spoken word hooks. ‘FourFive’ digs into sleeker territory. ‘UR LUV’ leans into US garage energy. ‘ALL U’ closes with chunky drums and molten synth work that keeps things locked tight. For this Hot Picks selection, BLND spotlight the records that feed their sets and studio sessions right now. DJ Split - Tape Zone (XOXO Mix) The ultimate party starter, with its groovy bassline and classic percs, this one always gets the crowd moving. Paul Johnson - The Groove A great feel-good roller, we first heard this one in Ibiza, and it really is a perfect track shift the momentum of the crowd. Sambo - Sweet Dreams Another feel-good roller, the bassline, the synths and the vocal almost make you feel like you’re floating. This is one of our favourites this year! Hector Couto, Alejandro Paz - El House A recent find for us, we heard Franky Rizardo spinning this one and fell in love with it straight away. A great example of keeping it simple but keeping it interesting throughout. BLND - All U Something about this one for us really clicked in the studio, so I had to pick it. We feel like it’s one of them tracks where everything complements each other. It’s rare you find a session in the studio like we did with this one! Matthew Styles - Hot! A track with serious attitude, the bass gets the crowd every time. Not much to add to this apart from it's cool as! Josh Butler - No Joke Josh Butler is one of our favourite producers of all time; he’s been making bangers for as long as we can remember. However, the work he did with the drums on the drop is nothing short of genius! Rooleh - Past Cognitions We met Rooleh in Manchester randomly one night; he makes his records sound timeless every time. To be honest, we could’ve picked any of them! Sweely- Security (Get The Fuck Out) We have always been big into old-school West Coast rap; this track captures everything we love about it with the Moog synths and vocal chops. It really is the perfect blend of two genres! ‘Style Is Rude feat. Sirolf’ marks another confident step for BLND. Their Hot Picks reflect everything that makes them so enjoyable to listen to: deep grooves. Sharp drums. Emotion where it counts. BLND Instagram - Soundcloud - Beatport Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

Kozlow Kozlow’s Hot Picks selection is rooted in lived experience rather than trend chasing. Across these ten records, the Brooklyn-based DJ and producer pulls together music that has soundtracked key moments on dancefloors, festival sites and late-night rooms, with each choice carrying a clear emotional and physical memory. That grounding feels especially relevant as Kozlow closes out 2025 with ‘New York Blues’, the latest release on his fast-rising ANTHR FCKNG PARTY label. Where the imprint’s earlier releases established a gritty, dancefloor-first identity, this new cut leans further into atmosphere, mood, and the pulse of the city that shaped him. That same sensibility runs through this playlist. These are tracks that reward patience, trust the room and unfold naturally rather than demanding attention. From Burning Man mornings to Glastonbury side rooms and vinyl moments that stick for years, Kozlow’s selections reveal a DJ who values feel, timing and connection above everything else. Art Of Tones – Gimme Some More (Saison Remix) (MONOSIDE) “Heard this at 9AM on burn day at G Camp. I recorded it on my phone to Shazam later, and when I finally ID’d it a month after the burn, it instantly brought me back to dancing with friends in that moment.” Will Easton – 18 Month Free Trial (Street Tracks) “I’d played this out before and then semi-retired it, but hearing Chris Schwarzwalder mix into it at City of Gods on Halloween made me sprint to the dancefloor for the breakdown.” Underworld – Two Months Off (Tim Green Remix) (Balance Music) “Orson has dropped this in multiple b2bs we’ve played. Lush chords, slow build and a journey that really gives the dancefloor what it deserves.” Deetron – Translate Rhythms (Mutual Rytm) “Hearing Kenny Larkin play this at Garbicz was unreal. His mixing on a V10 is magical, and this track was a real highlight of the set.” Jonathan Kaspar – Overfree (Crosstown Rebels) “Heard this during Carlita and DJ Tennis’ Robot Heart set while running solo across the playa at my first burn. The combined low end was something else.” Theus Mago – X Control (Correspondent) “I’ve played this out 17 times. Great groove, great bassline and just the right touch of acid without going too far.” DJ Pierre – Generate Power 2017 (Blondish Less Diva Rework) (Get Physical) “This one slowly asks how weird we can get, then rewards you if you stick around for the vocal drop later on.” Stylophonic – Jack It Up (Trax Records) “Heard Seth Troxler mix this b2b with Jamie Jones at Glastonbury in a tiny, packed room. Just a fun tune for a perfect situation.” David Bendeth – Feel The Real (Jazz N Groove Ultra Classic Mix) (NRK Sound Division) “Possibly the grooviest bassline ever. I heard Kaz James play it on vinyl at a Coachella afterparty and we talked about that moment all year.” Alicia Bridges – I Love The Nightlife (Disco Round) “This is a perfect song. I never get tired of it, and it still hits me deep every time I hear it.” This Hot Picks selection captures Kozlow exactly where he is right now. It reflects a DJ shaped by rooms, timing and shared experience rather than hype cycles or fast turnover. Each track has earned its place through repetition, memory and emotional weight, mirroring the philosophy behind ANTHR FCKNG PARTY and his own productions. As ‘New York Blues’ closes the chapter on the label’s first year, this playlist reads like a wider statement of intent. Honest records, trusted dancefloors and music that stays with you long after the night ends. Kozlow Instagram - Soundcloud - Spotify Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

Morpei Morpei moves between worlds with ease. The Bolivian artist has built a global reputation across Elrow, Get Physical and Moxy Muzik, pairing sharp club instincts with rich Latin American influence. This year, he made history with a full editorial trilogy for DJs and producers written in neutral Spanish, covering Ableton, industry survival and even an adult comic book. Now he backs it up with a new ten-track album, released over five months. The project marks an important moment in his journey. It pushes back against the idea that artists from underrepresented places cannot make global noise. Across the album, he blends deep tech, rolling house, classic vocoder hooks and Brazilian batucada heat, moving between peak-time power and intimate late-night moods. For this edition of Hot Picks, Morpei shares the tracks feeding his inspiration right now. From Calabassa’s stylish ‘Catching Wesley’ and Andre Butano’s ‘Libertinaje’ to Baba Ali’s seductive ‘Cog In The Wheel’ edit by ANOTR, every selection reflects groove, soul and musicality. These are the records shaping the energy behind his new chapter. Calabassa – Catching Wesley An incredible track to get any party started the right way. It has a flawless groove paired with a classy, tasteful funkiness that warms up the room without being too obvious. It sets the tone while keeping things stylish and smooth. Andre Butano, Chinonegro – Libertinaje I’ve been playing this one in almost every set lately. The vocal hook, infectious groove, and funky synth work make it a standout every time. It’s got that perfect blend of underground cool and dancefloor energy. Cymande – Bra (Danny Krivit Edit) An absolute classic. I use this when I want to shift the narrative mid-set—usually right after a peak moment. It creates a trippy, psychedelic break that gives the crowd space to breathe and reset before building up again. The Sunburst Band, Dave Lee, Louie Vega, Josh Milan – Listen Love (Louie Vega & Josh Milan Edit) This track shines in the more hypnotic moments of the night—when the crowd is fully locked in and open to deeper emotion. Played at the right time, it becomes one of those unforgettable moments that stays with people long after the night ends. Tuccillo – City Lights A straight-up groover that works in almost any situation. I’ve had this one in my back pocket for years, and it still delivers every time. Smooth, steady, and versatile—it lifts the energy without forcing it. Harry Choo Choo Romero – Night @ The Black A full-on experience of a track. It’s funky, uplifting, and joyful, topped off with a Santana-style guitar solo that gives it real character. It always gets hands in the air while staying tasteful and musical. Supernova – Electric Boogie A fresh one from the Italian legends Supernova. Sexy, hypnotic, and incredibly groovy—one of those records that just feels timeless on the dancefloor. Baba Ali – Cog In The Wheel (ANOTR Edit) Easily one of the sexiest edits of the past year from two of my favourite producers. ANOTR took an already strong original and gave it their signature bounce and swagger, making it an instant standout. Dennis Cruz – Way Back Perfect for transitioning into a heavier, more intense part of the set while keeping things tasteful. The harmonica on the drop is pure genius—catchy, unexpected, and super effective. Ammo Avenue – Hypnotica An absolute weapon for peak-time moments. Powerful, stripped, and rolling with just the right tension. Peruvian artists really have their finger on the pulse right now, and this track proves it. Morpei’s new album continues its rollout over the coming months, each track expanding the world he is building across music, storytelling and culture. His Hot Picks show where his rhythm comes from: deep groove, Latin pulse, emotional weight and club-ready tension. For Morpei, this is more than an album. It is proof that global scenes open up when artists bring their whole identity to the table. Morpei Instagram - Soundcloud - Beatport Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

Talal Talal’s Hot Picks selection reflects an artist deeply tuned into balance. Across these ten tracks, he highlights music that moves with patience and purpose, blending emotional resonance with functional club energy, mirroring his own productions. As a producer trusted by leading DJs worldwide, Talal has built a catalogue across labels such as Renaissance, Spectrum and Blaufield, with releases charting globally and lasting in DJ sets. His upcoming solo EP ‘Delta’ on White Rose Records continues that trajectory, leaning into lush chords, detailed melodies and grooves designed to carry dancers through extended moments rather than quick peaks. Pre-order your copy via Beatport. That same mindset runs through this playlist. Each selection values musicality, restraint and atmosphere, favouring records that unfold gradually and reward attention. From polished remixes to reflective originals, Talal’s choices offer a clear insight into the sounds currently shaping his creative world, rooted in melodic house and techno but always driven by feeling first. Booka Shade – Broken Glass (Helsloot Remix) (Blaufield) “The Helsloot remix on Booka Shade’s new album is great. It feels seamless, almost like an original track, which is very impressive.” Nihil Young – Paramount (Nomade) “Nihil Young is doing phenomenal work. This is one of his strongest tracks across his catalogue.” Oliver Koletzki & HVOB – Bones (GHEIST 20 Yrs SVT Remix) (Stil Vor Talent) “The Stil Vor Talent catalogue is excellent, and this remix brings together three great artists effortlessly.” Th;en – Run (NOW) “Th;en is doing great work. This track on his NOW label is one of my favourites from the imprint.” Gai Barone & Aaron Suiss – Faces (Echoes Of Time) “Aaron and Gai are always delivering. This has been one of my favourite tracks in recent times.” A Friend Called Marcus – Chypre (Just This) “He has a great approach to writing. His latest release on Hunter Game’s label is another strong piece of work.” Dabeat & Kamilo Sanclemente – Passing Lights (Mayro Remix) (Univack) “They have an endless catalogue of quality tracks. I’ve been listening to this one for years.” Pierce & Felax – La Opera (PitchBend Music) “They have been doing really nice work in Mexico. I’ve been following them closely over the last few months.” Drunken Kong – Take The Bass (Tronic) “I’ve been listening to Drunken Kong for many years. Both their older and newer material always delivers.” Jan Blomqvist – Disappear Again (Chukku Remix) (Disconnected) “A really nice reinterpretation from Chukku. I’ve been listening to this consistently over the last month.” Talal’s Hot Picks selection feels considered and intentional, much like his own productions. Each track reflects a respect for melody, groove, and long-form progression, favouring records that stay with you rather than chase immediate impact. As he prepares to release ‘Delta’ on White Rose Records, this playlist offers a clear snapshot of the sounds influencing his current output. Thoughtful, emotional and club-ready without compromise, it reinforces Talal’s position within the melodic house and techno landscape as an artist who values depth, longevity and genuine connection on the dancefloor. Talal Instagram - Spotify - Soundcloud Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

J Wax J Wax is one of Scotland’s most exciting rising names. His sound twists through garage, bassline, breaks and techno, always keeping crowds guessing while delivering serious club energy. With releases supported by Interplanetary Criminal, Job Jobse, DJ Seinfeld and Pete Tong, plus appearances at venues like Sneaky Pete’s, Liquid Lounge and Glasgow’s SWG3, he’s carving out a reputation for unpredictable, genre-blurring weapons. His latest track, ‘Do The Bang’, marks his HARD Recs debut. A ragga-flecked, bass-heavy workout packed with sirens, scat vocals and metallic percussion, it’s a peak-time roller built for sweaty dancefloors. To celebrate the release, J Wax shares the tracks inspiring him right now. Buy/Stream it here: https://hardrecs.ffm.to/dothebang. From Skeptic’s atmospheric garage to Spray’s vocal-driven stunner, Million’s dark bass workouts and Theo Kottis’ euphoric grooves, this playlist is a window into the sound of a producer pushing UK club music forward. Million - Go Fast A dark club tune, perfect for sweaty dancefloors on winter nights. Deep bass and choppy breaks hit just right. Yesca - Are They Staring At Me A brilliant, hypnotic tune. Yesca always delivers. Cameo Blush - Essa Amazing, driving hypnotic rhythms. Pure inspiration. Skeptic - Side2Side Classic garage vibes done right. Atmospheric, weighty, and a proper dancefloor weapon. The Trip - My Paradise Classic house sounds with a modern boost. So bouncy—I can’t get enough. SHUFFA - Touchdown Hype Fat 4x4 club stomper. Big energy. Theo Kottis - Forward Motion Deep, spacey bassline and euphoric atmosphere. Completely addictive. Spray - Ratenplan A staple in my sets for years. Those stuttered vocal chops are untouchable—one of the best tracks of the 2020s. Drumheller - Stigmata Wonky beats, fat bass. Absolute madness. Rumu - Critical Wass Unreal breaks/electro vibe. Mind-bending. J Wax’s ‘Do The Bang’ is out now on Insomniac’s HARD Recs, cementing his place in the new wave of UK club innovators. Whether in the studio or on stage, his focus is on energy, unpredictability and tracks that hit hard where it matters most: the dancefloor! J Wax https://www.instagram.com/jwaxmusic https://open.spotify.com/artist/32UMn8JWwIcnJp5P7G61UQ https://soundcloud.com/jwaxmusic Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

GAWP GAWP has carved a lane of his own in house music. Known for an off-kilter approach that balances crisp sound design with underground grit, the UK producer has released on Toolroom, Dirtybird, Elrow, and This Ain’t Bristol while touring across both sides of the Atlantic. His tracks pick up regular support from some of the biggest DJs in the game, and his productions always carry that signature edge. Now he returns to Doc Brown’s Unlearn:Records with Feel Alone. Sitting between deep, tech, and progressive house, it’s a vocal-driven cut that locks you in with hypnotic textures and a restrained groove, alongside a darker, peak-time remix from label boss Doc Brown. To celebrate the release, GAWP has shared the tracks currently shaping his sound. From his own chunky productions to heavyweight weapons from ATLAC, Kyle Watson, and Matt Sassari, this playlist is loaded with the kind of club gear built for peak hours and heads-down moments alike. GAWP – This Is The Way This one’s mine, proper proud of it. I had Skrillex’s recent house bits in my head when I made it. He never seems to miss. Ended up landing on Toolroom’s sister label Strangelove which felt like the right home. ATLAC – Off The Grid Dark, rolling, hypnotic. This is what I throw on when I want to flip the room into that proper heads down zone. Always works late in the night. John Summit – Go Back (Kyle Watson Remix) Kyle Watson absolutely nails this. Gives it that chunky bounce while keeping the Summit vibe intact. It’s been living in my sets for a while now. Doc Brown – Underground Kick This one just stomps. Mechanical, driving, relentless. Proper peak time damage. Jordan Peak – Front 2 Back Classic Defected house energy. Stripped back, punchy, and one of those tracks that feels like it’s been around forever but still smashes it every time. Loco Dice, Skrillex, Fireboy DML – Heavy Heart What a collab. Wasn’t sure it would work when I first saw the lineup but it bangs. Heavy but with that emotional edge that hooks people in. Bang Tidy – Body Drippin (GAWP Remix) My take on a big track. I beefed up the bassline and gave it a bit of my own grit. It’s not available anymore as the licence ran out so if you want a copy you’ll have to come ask me. Matt Sassari, CHRSTPHR, Barbatuques – Baiana (Extended Mix) This one’s got that big vocal that just lifts a room. Every time I play it on a livestream people are asking what it is. Chris Lorenzo, Max Styler, Audio Bullys – London’s On Fire Pure chaos. The vocal hits and the place just erupts. It’s that UK energy you can’t fake. SCRIPT – WTF Does exactly what the title says. Proper left field weapon that takes people by surprise. One of those what the f*** was that moments. Feel Alone is out now on Unlearn:Records, pairing GAWP’s textured, vocal-led production with Doc Brown’s driving rework. As GAWP continues to blur the lines between deep, tech, and progressive, his focus remains the same: keeping dancefloors moving while pushing his sound forward. GAWP https://www.instagram.com/gawpmusic https://open.spotify.com/artist/7nRbEJhGU1wq3sEuQelrzb https://soundcloud.com/gawpmusic Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

Chinonegro Chinonegro’s rise has been driven by groove, patience and instinct. Born in Chiclayo, Peru, he has steadily built global momentum through releases on Crosstown Rebels, elrow Music, Mindshake and Deeperfect, before breaking through in 2025 with ‘Funky Beat’ on 8Bit. Heavy support from Marco Carola, Mochakk, Franky Rizardo and Rossi pushed his sound into a wider view without losing its raw edge. Now he makes his debut on Dennis Cruz’s BotaniQ label with the ‘Mi Gentee’ EP. The release channels everything that defines his style. Rhythm-led pressure. Commanding vocals. Club-ready energy rooted in feeling rather than excess. It also reinforces BotaniQ’s direction as a home for artists connected by groove, atmosphere and a natural sense of flow. Buy/stream it here: ffm.to/bnq004. For this edition of Hot Picks, Chinonegro looks back at the records that shaped his journey. From early emotional moments on the beach to career-defining club weapons and personal milestones, these tracks tell the story behind the sound. Hot Natured - ‘Benediction’ “This track marked the beginning of my career as an electronic music DJ. I first heard it on the beach in my city about 13 years ago.” Depeche Mode - ‘Cover Me’ (Dixon Remix) “Many sunrises with this one. It’s one of my favourite tracks for closing a party in the morning.” Chinonegro - ‘Funky Beat’ “This track put me on the radar of the industry and many other people. It means a lot to me.” Coyu - ‘El Baile Alemán’ “An epic and timeless tech house track. Brutal tension. I could play it forever.” Butch - ‘Big Futt’ “This is how I discovered one of my favourite producers. Butch has been a reference for me since I started producing.” Matthew Dekay, Lee Burridge - ‘Lost In A Moment’ “This melody always gives me goosebumps. I play it only on very special occasions.” Reboot - ‘Ready To Flow’ “Cecille has always been my favourite label. Reboot is a huge influence and this track had to be here.” Armand Van Helden - ‘I Want Your Soul’ “My favourite classic from a true legend. You can never go wrong with this one.” Nick Curly - ‘Amnezia’ “My brother Nick is a legend and one of my favourite producers. This track is one of my favourites of his.” Chinonegro - ‘Mi Gentee’ “This is the track my fans asked for the most before it was released. It blends all my influences and means a lot to me.” Chinonegro’s ‘Mi Gentee’ EP is available now via BotaniQ. These Hot Picks capture the roots behind his sound. Emotion, memory and groove. The same elements are driving his next chapter. Chinonegro IG / SC / FB Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

Eric Sharp Eric Sharp has built a reputation for intelligent house music that connects energy with emotion. The LA-based artist has taken his sound to Coachella, Lightning in a Bottle and ADE, while his releases have landed on respected labels and playlists worldwide. His latest track, Madness, created with Charity Redding and ARi, arrives on Intentional Records. More than just a club track, it is a purpose-driven record that reframes feminine power as clarity, compassion and resilience, with a remix from Nigerian-American artist Eli Fola. Pre-order/save it here: https://create.ffm.to/mdness. To mark the release, Eric Sharp shares the tracks inspiring him right now. From Lane 8’s more aggressive side to Notre Dame’s Chicago-inspired modernism, and from the euphoric sweep of ANNA’s remix of Kiasmos to the sunrise beauty of Naarly, Sinca & Mitch Oliver, his picks reflect a love of music that moves both the dancefloor and the soul. Ame & Curses - Shadow Of Love (Echonomist Remix) [Innervisions] When the original came out, I was immediately struck by the brilliant songwriting and Curses’ sublime vocal performance. Echonomist took it to a whole new level with this remix, with bold synths that get all the hands up in the air during a peak time romp. Lane 8 - The Remedy [This Never Happened] I’ve been a long-time fan of Lane 8 and his label TNH. Thrilled to hear a more aggressive record from him. Notre Dame - Nobody Told Me [Diynamic] Notre Dame has taken the melodic house/techno world completely by storm, and this is my favourite tune off his latest Diynamic EP. It works a sample like a classic Chicago/NY track, but stays fresh with modern sound design and arrangement. Christoph - Where Do We Go [Consequence Of Society] This track grabbed me from the first beat when I heard it, but I wasn’t quite sure if the crowds would come along. My uncertainty was ill-fated, as this has become one of the most versatile tunes in my crates and always goes off. Cassian, Yotto, Da Jool - Love Parade [Afterlife] I fully admit that including this track is a guilty pleasure, sorry, not sorry. Cassian and Yotto are two of my favourite producers, and hearing them team up for a new version of an iconic classic hooked me. Henri Bergmann & Cenkk - Get Together [Automatik] This one pulls at my nostalgia strings as well, referencing St Germain’s beloved Rose Rouge. Henri is one of my favourite emergent producers, and gives us plenty of melodic and harmonic goodness to sink our teeth into. Paul Harris - Words [Toolroom] This tune immediately reminded me of DJ Koze’s Pick Up in its poignant vibe. Sitting somewhere between deep house and disco, Paul did a great job of reviving Bent - Magic Love for today’s dance floors. Sian & Bobby Nourmand - The Language [Octopus] This collaboration from two really talented producers is unapologetically driving. I love a stripped-back, confident record like this that really allows its elements to shine without needing to be overstated. Kiasmos - Burst (ANNA Remix) [Erased Tapes] This track is a simply euphoric exploration of melody, harmony, and counterpoint. It’s a warm, uplifting journey from start to finish with some very satisfying tension and release. Naarly, Sinca & Mitch Oliver - Under The Moonlight [House Music With Love] Beautiful, deep, melodic, organic groover. This track oozes smoothness from every pore and is perfect for a beautiful sunrise. Eric Sharp, Charity Redding and ARi’s Madness is out tomorrow on Intentional Records, a label dedicated to craft, community and healing-minded electronic music. With a sound that balances melodic richness and emotional depth, Sharp continues to bring purpose to the dancefloor while carving his own path in the global house community. Eric Sharp https://www.instagram.com/ericsharpmusic https://open.spotify.com/artist/6BiKSiXDrf81E21MuX40hH https://soundcloud.com/ericsharp Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features