For this Hot Picks feature, we’re joined by German producer, DJ and MYR label boss Goeran Meyer, an artist with a real feel for emotional weight and dancefloor function. His latest release, ‘Restless World’, marks the 36th on his ever-consistent imprint, and it feels especially resonant right now. Built around supple, organic house grooves and layered with swirling textures and emotive strings, the track walks that line between movement and introspection. Goeran says the tune is about the unease so many of us feel today but also about music’s ability to ground us and connect us. You’ll feel that across the original and in the vocal edits, too, with label regular Mario Navajo adding a touch of moody melancholy and D LEE flipping things into a deeper, more conversational space. We asked Goeran to share a selection of tracks that capture what he’s feeling and playing right now. Remcord - I Know (Habitat) Perfectly balanced and irresistibly groovy — Remcord’s ‘I Know’ blends crisp production with haunting vocals, delivering a deep, hypnotic ride. Easily the best promo I’ve received this year. K.eem - In Love (Yamil Remix) (Marginalia) Yamil’s remix of ‘In Love’ brings a deep, hypnotic the vocals are fantastic, perfectly blending in to create a tension that builds throughout the track. Sandhaus & Misha - Gorgeous (Rockin Morrocin Remix) (Madorasindahouse) A flawless remix — deep, flowing, and endlessly replayable. Big props for the promo, this one’s been on repeat since first play. Tim Engelhardt, Solique – My Joy (Habitat) A sun-soaked groove that rides smooth and steady — ‘My Joy’ is pure energy for workouts and summer drives. Amine K x WAHM - Sundance(IZIL REcordings) ‘Sundance’ radiates warmth, rhythm, and that perfect summer energy for open-air sets. David Mackay - Lighthouse (Madorasindahouse) This track brings a perfect blend of uplifting energy and reflective moments. Mont Rouge, Ketschua, Dee Mad - Belsunce (Ultra Records) Love the breakdown and catchy groove of ‘Mont Rouge’ — it’s perfect for open-air parties, bringing that irresistible vibe. Chewna - Move As One (Marked Music) The percussion and atmosphere create the perfect vibe for warm-up and after-hour sets, setting the mood just right. WhoMadeWho - You Belong To No-One (Tripolism Remix) - (The Moment) Really enjoying the soundscape on Tripolism’s remix of ‘You Belong To No-One’ — the deep, hypnotic groove creates an immersive vibe that’s perfect for late-night sets. Dennis Louvra, Giattino, MinimalObi - NRD (UNreleased Records) This track is on fire — the buildup after the break is absolutely killer. I really love this one; it fits perfectly into any set and brings incredible energy every time. Whether you’re in search of stillness or just need something solid to move to, Goeran’s picks offer both. They’re thoughtful and groovy and speak volumes without saying much, just like his own productions. Go dig into ‘Restless World’ now and keep an ear on MYR. There’s depth in every detail. Goeran Meyer https://www.instagram.com/goeran.meyer https://open.spotify.com/artist/3pBmqE4shsafFcfIMiwyuA https://soundcloud.com/goeranmeyer Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

Peruvian-born and globally tuned, Gio Lucca knows his way around a groove. His sound blends tech house, minimal and funk with a real sense of character. Releases on Nervous, Deeperfect and North of Neptune have put him in rotation with the likes of Jamie Jones, Michael Bibi, Pawsa and Marco Carola. Beatport Top 10 entries? Already ticked off. Now, he’s stepping into a new chapter. His remix of Laid Back’s cult classic ‘Cocaine Cool’ is bold, charismatic and weird in the best way. It also launches his new label ISO, which looks set to be a home for left of centre late night cuts. We asked Gio to pick out some current favourites for this edition of Hot Picks. What came back is a list full of groove, sax, stank face energy and a few nods to his friends and roots. Marco Lys - The story continues Marco Lys is a legend. This is an amazing track, such a dance floor bomb, love, love layering an acapella over this. The sax and groove never fails to make the crowd dance. Jaden Thompson - Control Freak Great energy, one of my favorite Jaden tracks, drums are simple yet so punchy, the switch up towards the end of the track is so unique as well. Nocapz. - coming for ya Groovy track, feel-good vocals on the dance floor. I found the original instrumental that was sampled on this track a while back and Nocapz definitely did it justice. Gio Lucca - Pump One of my favorite tracks of mine out with one of my favorite labels, roller with good energy. Moontalk - Money (Thats What I Want) Nasty track, so heavy, I always get stank faces in the crowd when I drop this. I really enjoy those chunky claps and synths on these indie house tracks, very unique style of music that not many are pioneering. Kidoo - Hora De Joc That playful melody of the flute makes this one a fun track, hard to not dance to it. It’s super dope that Kidoo incorporated a Romanian sample in this dance floor bomb, awesome way to pay respect to his culture. Braydon Terzo, Julio Bravo - Get Up Dance floor bomb by my good friends. That familiar vocal sample paired with the bass really make this a versatile record. Been getting love from the likes of Stussy and Mau P. Tiptoes - Chip Shop Heroes (Sidney Charles remix) This remix is insane, proper vibes, one of my favorites from Sidney Charles. I saw him live for the first time last year at Art Basel and his sets are just as incredible as his productions. Prok & Fitch - Tiger Blood Legendary Charlie Sheen sample, track is just a timeless groover. One of the first Prok & Fitch tracks I ever heard and it’s just been in my rotation since. Kidoo - The - BF Mix Kidoo again, he doesn’t miss. One of my favorite releases on Muse, the feel good vocal with that bouncy groove is unstoppable. Whether building chunky rollers or flipping classics, Gio Lucca moves with purpose. There’s a clear thread in what he plays and produces. Energy, personality, and that magic combo of simplicity and funk. His own track ‘Pump’ shows that off, and his remix of ‘Cocaine Cool’ gives a cult favourite a warped new edge. With ISO now live and more music on the way, Gio’s not just following trends. He’s carving his own lane, one groove at a time. Gio Lucca https://www.instagram.com/gioluccamusic https://open.spotify.com/artist/6bzkE76ArC0nIuNKH04T74 https://soundcloud.com/giolucca Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

Stereo Underground’s new EP for Sasha’s Last Night on Earth is deep, cinematic and full of emotional weight, and this playlist shows exactly where that energy comes from. His picks move through groove-heavy techno, ambient soundscapes, and tracks loaded with tension and release. From club staples to personal favourites, every selection here connects to the story behind ‘Your Time Will Come’. Expect music from Pryda, Trentemoller, Rodriguez Jr, Sasha and more for a proper look into the mind of a producer who sees dance music as something much bigger than just beats and drops. MEERA - Sirkustelt Original Mix (Black Book Records) This track is pure theatrical energy—groovy, trippy, and slightly twisted. It feels like stepping into a psychedelic carnival with a perfect balance of playfulness and darkness. BAAL - LUMEN (Musica Autonomica) “LUMEN” glows with cinematic intensity. It’s deep, emotional, and builds like a ritual—hypnotic drums with an almost spiritual resonance. I get lost in it every time. Spirit Catcher - Voodoo Knight (Catz’ n Dogz Dub Mix) (Pets Recordings) My secret weapon almost on every set, A groovy, dubby masterpiece. Funky yet mysterious. Victor Ruiz - Serpens (Natura Viva Black) I played that one on my last tour in Argentina, This is a dark and driving cosmic trip. The tension and release are immaculate—it feels like navigating through deep space with intensity and elegance. Robotek Reagan - Pressy ‘I’m peaking’ mix (Void Space Institute) This track is madness in the best way. It’s chaotic, raw, and euphoric—exactly the kind of tune that makes a peak-time moment unforgettable. Rodriguez Jr. - Twilight Language (Feathers & Bones) From one of my top all-time producers, Beautifully crafted, melodic, and atmospheric. Rodriguez Jr. never misses, and this track feels like a lucid dream—emotive and delicate yet pulsing with life. Trentemoller - Always Something Better (Trentemoller Remix) (Audiomatique Recordings) An all-time favorite. Melancholic and beautiful, it merges indie sensibilities with minimal techno in a way that only Trentemøller can. Pure nostalgia and mood. Sasha - Who Killed Sparky? (emFire) This track influenced my upcoming EP on LNOE, Deep, cinematic, and mysterious. Sasha at his most experimental, yet it still grooves. Khen - Anise (Sudbeat) Well. Khen is a very good friends & a fragile soul, his melodies can cut straight through my heart & soul, Anise in particular. Pryda - Armed (Pryda Recordings) The best track to start or finish a special set, Classic Pryda power. “Armed” is a timeless weapon & i still play it on my sets, but only on the special ones. Stereo Underground’s new EP ‘Your Time Will Come’ is out on 11 July on Last Night on Earth. It’s a powerful, emotional listen, and this playlist gives it even more context. Stream the complete list and tap into the energy that shaped one of his most personal releases to date. Stereo Underground Instagram - Soundcloud - Beatport Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

Hatiras Hatiras is back on Toolroom with a track that’s been shaking dancefloors all summer. ‘Hypnotized’ blends rolling bass, ragga vocals and razor-sharp risers for a proper club workout. Mark Knight is calling it “tune of the year”. DJs across Ibiza are hammering it. And Hatiras is loving every second. If you’ve been into house for a minute, you know the name. He broke through with the crossover smash ‘Spaced Invader’ back in 2001 and helped shape the sound of North American funky house. Since then, he’s racked up over 500 releases, dropped five artist albums and built up a rep for consistently energetic, party-driven music on labels like Defected, Dirtybird, Afro Acid and his own Spacedisco. Alongside the new single, he’s shared a fresh batch of heaters he’s been spinning lately. From jackin' grooves to piano house to disco-laced bombs, this list is full of club-ready moments. If you're after tunes that actually work on a dancefloor, this is a solid place to start. “Hypnotized” by Hatiras This is my new single on Toolroom that has everyone going bonkers. Mark Knight is calling this one “tune of the year”! Maybe it’s the risers? Or is it the rolling baseline? Or.. the ragga vocals? Whatever it is, basically every DJ in Ibiza is currently caning this one. Crazy. “La Fiesta” by David Penn and WH0 Any time David Penn or WH0 drop a release, it’s instantly in my crate. This is a really nice, uplifting piano / Latin-House vibe track that I’ve been playing a lot lately. Great stuff! “What’s It Gonna Be” by Vincent Caira Vincent Caira nailed the classic House sound with this one (he always does). It features sweet chords, a catchy vocal and his trademark thick, jackin drums. Listening to this one takes me back to my youth when I listened to early House Music on cassette tapes and felt so cool. “Got The Funk” by Low Steppa and Capri I remember Low Steppa showing me the rough draft of this tune last fall at ADE Amsterdam. He stated then that it would be a big tune and he was right. It’s been a go to all year for me whenever the crowd needs a massive and funky lift! “Sun Is Shining” by Angelo Ferreri, Max Millan and Wild Joker Angelo Ferreri is one of the most consistent producers out there. Everything he touches is fun, DJ-friendly, funky and quality. The boys remade this famous Bob Marley tune into a dance floor smash. It’s just undeniably a big, happy tune! “Everybody Pumpin’” by Agua Sin Gas by Antoine Clamaran I recently rediscovered this one in my crate. Paris’ Antoine Clamaran is an absolute legend and he nails the drums and energy in every track he makes. This one is a famous rework of Todd Terry’s “Jumpin” and it definitely gets the crowd jumping every time! “Disco Dynasty” by FederFunk and Luccio B These two are a staple in the Jackin House charts these days. Both Luccio B and FederFunk are amazing producers on their own but this collaboration called “Disco Dynasty” is just so funky and uplifting that I had to release it on my label. Great tune. Always puts a smile on people’s faces. “Disco Dreams” (Hatiras Remix) by Seamus Haji and Mike Dunn I’ve known Seamus Haji for over 2 decades now. Whenever he drops a tune on his label Big Love, you know it’s gonna be funky! I loved the original “Disco Dreams” by Seamus and Chicago’s Mike Dunn so much that I had to remix it. This one goes off every time! “Break Ya Down” (Mark Knight Remix) by Jay Vegas Jay Vegas is such an incredible producer and musician. Everything he releases is gold. This one is taken to a whole new level with Mark Knight on remix duties bringing his signature high energy, rolling hats and dance floor-frenzy arrangement. Mega tune! “Discover Love” by Roel I met Italy’s Roel in Amsterdam a couple of years ago and checked out his work. I was instantly impressed. He’s part of the next generation of producers that releases quality work and will be one to watch in the coming years. His new release on Spacedisco Records - “Discover Love” - is just such a well produced, happy, funky, melodic, emotional and dope tune that’s super nice to end sets with. Hatiras has always known what works in a club. His Hot Picks are proof. No filler, just tracks that bring people together and make them move. With ‘Hypnotized’ smashing it across festivals, clubs and beach sets this summer, he’s showing no signs of slowing down. Dive into the playlist, dig into the single, and find out why Hatiras still has DJs and dancers fully locked in. Hatiras https://www.instagram.com/hatiras https://open.spotify.com/artist/7DQ8fX4Fbi43HaesfrVYpO https://soundcloud.com/hatiras Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

Capri Capri is flying in 2025. His Defected collab with Low Steppa, Got The Funk, has exploded across clubs and festivals, hitting number one on Beatport, clocking up over 700,000 Spotify streams and gaining heavy support from the likes of Gorgon City, Fisher, Chris Lake, Barry Can’t Swim, Danny Howard and Arielle Free. And now he’s heading to Manchester this weekend for a big one. On Saturday, 9th August, Capri joins Chicago house icon Marshall Jefferson at Love to be... at The Yard for a massive open-air day-to-night session. After a sold-out May bank holiday with Roger Sanchez, this is the second edition of the summer, and it’s shaping up to be just as serious. Capri joins the Back Yard stage alongside Trimtone, Nicola Bear, and more, with disco master The Reflex headlining Room 2. Tickets are on sale now from Skiddle. With even more releases on the way this year, including new music on Armada, Divine Sounds, and Moxy Musik, Capri takes a moment to run through the tracks lighting up his sets right now. From deep rollers to disco bombs and peak-time vocal moments, these are his current must-plays. Low Steppa & Capri - Got The Funk One of my new singles that recently dropped on Defected. We managed to hit the Beatport number 1 spot with it and received support from the biggest DJs around the globe. Love to be... will most definitely be getting the funk! Hector Couto - Don't Need You One of my favourites from house legend Hector Couto. Bit of a secret weapon this tune as I don't hear it getting played that much anymore. Simple but effective house groover with a monster bassline. Sounds insane on a big sound system. Floorplan - I'm Gonna Sing Peaktime banger from Floorplan. Relentless, hypnotic synths that never fail to turn a club upside down. Massive tune. Earth N Days - Stronger (Capri remix) A remix I did earlier this year for my good friends Earth N Days. I'm really happy with how this remix turned out. Big vocals, disco stabs and a classic house live bass. Always goes off! Mar-T & Luca Donzelli - In Your Hands (Mathias Kaden remix) Love the production on this one. Serious roller with wicked chopped up vocals. This is a proper 'close your eyes and get lost in the music' one. Massive Alexa Perl - Deep In My Soul Killer vocal, massive pianos... what's not to love! Big tune. Capri - Be Yourself My debut release on Darius Syrossian's label MOXY MUZIK. Old school samples, chunky drums and a garage influence on this one. This tune was a big part of Darius's sets last year. Kristin Velvet - Let The Music Play Hypnotic, techno-influenced goodness. Love the vocal on this one, too - simplicity at its finest. Doorly - I Want You To Dance Stone cold classic from Doorly. Love the groove on this one. The bassline on this one is monstrous. It just sounds like one big party. Belter! Jamie Jones - Lose My Mind Anthem. I'll never get bored with this track. If you want to see smiles on the dance floor, this is the track you draw for. Perfection! US TWO - Breaking Dollars Big energy on this track from US TWO, who is killing it right now. Wicked groove, never fails to get the party jumping. This one goes OFF every time! Capri’s Hot Picks tell you everything about where his head’s at as a DJ right now. Each track in this list brings its own flavour, whether it’s the hypnotic swing of Kristin Velvet, the low-end thump of Hector Couto, or the uplifting energy of Alexa Perl and US TWO. His own productions fit seamlessly among them, too. 'Be Yourself' shows his love for chunky drums and classic samples, while his remix of Earth N Days' 'Stronger' layers disco heat with a big-room feel. If you’re heading to Love to be... this Saturday, expect plenty of these to drop. Capri knows how to move a crowd, and this set is lining up to be one of his biggest yet. With a packed release schedule and the support of the scene’s top selectors, Capri isn’t just having a good run – he’s building something serious. Capri https://www.instagram.com/caprimusicuk https://open.spotify.com/artist/4eHpewi8qb1L05TZvgKn7Z https://soundcloud.com/caprimusicuk Love to be... https://www.lovetobeevents.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/lovetobeevents https://www.tiktok.com/@lovetobeevents https://www.facebook.com/lovetobeevents Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

Fer Br Fer BR is a producer who understands the power of groove. A regular on Paco Osuna’s Mindshake Records and one-half of Project00, the Spanish artist has carved out a sound that blends precision, swing, and underground energy. With releases on MÜSE, Deeperfect, and Rawthentic, as well as support from the biggest names in the game, his tracks have become fixtures in clubs worldwide. Fresh off the release of his Up & Down EP on SOSA’s COCO imprint, Fer BR shares the tracks that have shaped his sound. From early club memories with Shiny Disco Balls to the deep influence of Audion and the timeless grooves of Harry Romero, this playlist is a snapshot of the records that have inspired his journey. “In this case, the track selection I’m about to share has had a huge influence on my current style - both in DJing and producing. Most of these are older tracks, but even today they still sound fresh.” - Fer BR. Hit play, turn it up, and dive into Fer BR’s world. Who Da Funk ‘Shiny Disco Balls’ It’s one of the tracks that played the most when I started going to clubs. Even today, I still like it, and it has had a big impact on my music. Joey Beltram ‘Slice’ This track is the perfect example of a blend of styles - in this case, house and techno collide and create a spectacular track that I’ve played a lot and that has influenced my productions. Audion ‘Noiser’ Probably one of the tracks that has influenced my productions the most. Those basslines have had a huge impact on me. I’ve learned a lot from Matthew Dear and his alias Audion. Paco Osuna’ My Friend’ I love the mix of minimalism and more organic elements like the drums in this production. &Me ‘Matters’ The first tracks that brought &ME to the spotlight have always seemed like great tools for my DJ sets - they’ve always been very effective. Zeitgeist ‘Jazz Snake’ I think it’s obvious the kind of sound I like — the blend of styles in this track is just perfect. It’s a track that still sounds super fresh even today. Harry Romero ‘Blazing’ Any track by Harry Romero could be in this top, but I love this one for its mix of techy and funky touches. I’ve always loved the swing in his grooves. Andrea Introvigne & Joe Montana’ My Wife Is A Witch’ Mindshake is without a doubt the label that has influenced me the most. Its eclecticism and distinctive basslines have truly left a mark on me , and this track is a perfect example of all that. DJ Fronter ‘Dat Rez’ Fronter is probably one of the best producers from Latin America. I’ve always loved his music, and his passing was a great loss. This track perfectly defines his style, and I absolutely love it. Luca Bernardi’ Love in Paris’ I love how this track evolves. It has a very simple groove, but it’s extremely effective. Fer BR’s Up & Down EP is out now via COCO, serving two expertly crafted weapons built for peak-time floors. With a career spanning years of global recognition, label appearances, and constant innovation in the studio, Fer BR continues to push his signature sound to new heights. Fer Br https://www.instagram.com/ferbrmusic https://open.spotify.com/artist/78fAtGKcAeu68c4mPLo9Q9 https://soundcloud.com/ferbr Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

DEADLINE Brazilian producer DEADLINE has quickly become one of the most exciting names emerging from the new wave of melodic techno. Blending cinematic emotion with huge festival scale energy, his productions have earned support from names including David Guetta, Vintage Culture and Tiësto, while performances at Tomorrowland Brasil, Ultra Brasil and Laroc Club continue pushing his profile onto a global stage. Fresh from reworking Nathassia’s ‘Perfect Harmony’ into a darker, more expansive melodic techno weapon via ArchangelUK Recordings, DEADLINE steps into Hot Picks to share 10 records that continue shaping his DJ sets, productions and wider connection to electronic music. David Guetta, MORTEN & Fedde Le Grand – Night In Detroit [Future Rave] “I’ve been playing this track for over a year now, and I’m still impressed by the reaction it gets every time. The combination of those heavy, distinctive synths with the iconic ‘Put Your Hands Up For Detroit’ vocal makes it incredibly effective on the dancefloor. It manages to feel both nostalgic and modern at the same time, which is something I really appreciate. David Guetta and MORTEN have been major influences on me as artists, and this record perfectly showcases why their collaboration works so well. It’s powerful, memorable and consistently one of the strongest moments in my sets.” Sentinel – Like Fire [BODY HI] “One of the reasons I picked this track is because it immediately felt unique when I first heard it. The combination of rave-inspired stabs with a modern melodic techno bassline caught my attention right away. It felt familiar and nostalgic while still sounding fresh and forward-thinking. Even before the release, I knew this was a record I wanted in my sets as soon as possible. Since then, it has become a regular part of my shows. It creates energy without feeling predictable and always seems to connect with people on the dancefloor.” Adam Sellouk & Zerky – Touch It [Spinnin’ Deep] “I’m a big fan of both Adam Sellouk and Zerky, so it’s no surprise this record became one of my favourites. What I love most about ‘Touch It’ is how naturally it blends modern indie dance influences with melodic techno elements. The groove feels effortless, the vocals are memorable and the atmosphere has a lot of personality. It’s become one of those tracks that I consistently use near the beginning of my sets because it helps establish the mood without giving away all the energy too early. Elegant, musical and extremely effective.” Rafael Cerato & Laherte – Thunderbolt [SIMULATE] “This track grabbed my attention because of its acid synth work and the way it develops tension throughout the arrangement. The groove is tighter and more restrained than many melodic techno records, which gives it a very distinctive character. It’s actually a track I often play directly after ‘Touch It’ because the two records complement each other perfectly. While they share a similar energy, ‘Thunderbolt’ takes things into a darker and more hypnotic direction. I’m a huge fan of tracks that create movement without relying on huge drops, and this record does exactly that.” ARTBAT, R3HAB, Stylo, Eli & Dani feat. NAIIM – Fight Machine [UPPERGROUND] “ARTBAT have been one of my biggest influences for years, so I was immediately curious when this collaboration was announced. What makes ‘Fight Machine’ stand out for me is how naturally it blends different worlds of electronic music. You can hear the melodic techno influence from ARTBAT alongside the bigger festival energy that R3HAB brings, creating a track that feels powerful without losing its identity. The vocal works perfectly and the overall production is massive. I love records that can bridge underground and mainstream influences while still feeling authentic, and this track does exactly that. It always brings a huge amount of energy to my sets.” ICYMI: Influences: pdqb Explores The Records Behind ‘DER TRANSIENTE ZEUGE’ Nutritious On New York Club Culture, Analogue Instincts And The Energy Behind ‘Freefall’ Qolaj On Transformation, Hardgroove And Rebuilding Club Music Through ‘Re-Adoption’ Jebu – Consequences [REFUNE] “This track brings back a lot of memories for me. I remember hearing Steve Angello play it regularly in his sets around 2015, at a time when I was still dreaming about becoming a DJ and performing on big stages myself. Back then, I used to think, ‘If I ever get the chance to play those kinds of shows, I have to include this track in my sets.’ Recently, I rediscovered it and started playing it again. What’s amazing is how well it has aged. The acid-driven drop and the distinctive groove still sound relevant today, and it continues to fit naturally into my shows.” Vintage Culture – Find A Way (Adam Sellouk Remix) [VINTAGE CULTURE] “This is easily one of the tracks I’ve played the most since it was released. Adam Sellouk took an already strong record and transformed it into something that feels perfectly tailored for modern dancefloors. The electro-inspired synths in the drop bring a unique character that immediately stands out, while the vocals in the breakdown create a huge emotional moment. That combination of power and emotion is something I’m constantly searching for in music. Every time I play this track, it creates a reaction. It has become one of my favourite weapons during my sets.” Armin van Buuren & JOA – Heavy [ARMADA] “‘Heavy’ is one of those rare records that completely transforms the energy of a room. Even though it has been played extensively since its release, it still feels incredibly powerful every time I hear it. The combination of the melody and those huge synths creates an instant emotional connection with the crowd. It’s become one of those tracks that I always try to fit into my sets because I know it will have an impact. Few records manage to feel both massive and emotional at the same time, and that’s exactly why this one remains so special to me.” Simon Doty & My Friend feat. Tailor – Follow Me [ANJUNADEEP] “Simon Doty is one of those artists whose music I genuinely listen to outside of DJ sets and studio sessions. While not every one of his tracks fits naturally into my performances, I’m consistently inspired by his songwriting and melodic approach. ‘Follow Me’ is a perfect example of what makes his music so special. The melodies feel emotional without being overly dramatic, and the arrangement unfolds in a way that keeps you engaged from start to finish. It’s the kind of track I can listen to repeatedly, whether I’m driving, relaxing at home or looking for inspiration in the studio.” Orbital – Halcyon + On + On [London Records] “This is one of my favourite electronic tracks of all time. My connection to it goes back to childhood, when I first heard it during the ending sequence of the 1995 Mortal Kombat film. That moment stayed with me for years and played a role in shaping my appreciation for electronic music. Recently, with the new Mortal Kombat releases bringing back those memories, I found myself listening to it frequently again. Beyond the nostalgia, though, ‘Halcyon + On + On’ is simply a masterpiece. Its atmosphere and emotion remain just as powerful today as when it was first released.” DEADLINE Instagram - Spotify - SoundCloud Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

Manuel Ribeca Italian DJ and producer Manuel Ribeca steps onto Milan imprint Motel Calypso with ‘Traigo Mi Flow’, out now via stores & streaming. The release marks Ribeca’s first appearance on the label founded by Massi Rocket, a platform known for its blend of minimal deep tech, disco and progressive house. Across Milan’s underground circuit and beyond, Motel Calypso has built a reputation for spotlighting artists whose sound prioritises groove and dancefloor function. ‘Traigo Mi Flow’ captures Ribeca’s approach clearly. Hypnotic percussion loops, warm bass pressure and robotic vocal textures combine into a stripped but textured club tool designed for late-night rooms. It follows a growing run of releases on labels such as Sola Records, Clarisse Records and And Dance, while his DJ schedule has taken him through venues including Hï Ibiza, Amnesia Ibiza and Marina Beach Club Valencia. For this edition of Hot Picks, Ribeca highlights ten tracks that consistently shape his sets. The selections reflect the sound he gravitates toward in the booth. Groove-led tech house, minimal rhythms and rolling basslines designed to keep the dancefloor moving. TRACE - Good Time [8bit Records] “Essential lines, constant energy and a warm, enveloping groove.” Supernova - Velvet Avenue [Lapsus Music] “A house journey with a velvety touch. Refined groove and funky bass leading straight to the dancefloor.” Sebastian Villavisencio - Euphoria [Under No Illusion] “Warm frequencies and driving tech energy with drops that never let up.” Rob Stillekens - Tell Me Why [Altra Moda Music] “A minimal weave of fresh grooves, deep bass and hypnotic vocals.” Datelees, Swavè - I Sabes Que [Somethin Light] “Rounded bass and hot energy. The Spanish vocal drives the dancefloor.” Malone, Cyava - She Like [Elrow Music] “The elegance of Italian tech house meets Cuban fire. Warm flow with strong club pressure.” Fifi Forte - Reflections [Deeperfect] “Controlled pressure with clean dynamics and a rhythm that captivates.” DJ Oliver - Body Shaker (Rendher Remix) [Mindshake Records] “A concentration of rhythm and pressure with sharp groove and club energy.” Qubiko - Momento [8bit Records] “A perfect balance of rhythm, atmosphere and intensity with constant energy.” Alex Steve - Baby Drive Me [Sound D Elite] “A deep groove wrapped in a sensual vocal with a warm and hypnotic atmosphere.” Manuel Ribeca’s selections reflect a clear philosophy behind the decks. Groove always leads. Each track builds momentum through rhythm, bass weight and subtle textures rather than excess layers. That approach carries directly into ‘Traigo Mi Flow’. The record sits comfortably within the Motel Calypso catalogue while reinforcing Ribeca’s own direction. Club-focused music that values feel, energy and connection above all else. As his international presence continues to expand through touring and releases, these Hot Picks offer a window into the sounds currently shaping his sets and studio mindset. For anyone following the deeper corners of tech house and minimal, Ribeca’s trajectory is one worth watching closely. Manuel Ribeca Instagram - Soundcloud - Spotify Motel Calypso Instagram - Website - Soundcloud Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

Khen Khen and Yotam Avni have just released their ‘Retro’ EP via Sasha’s Last Night On Earth, delivering two records built around atmosphere, movement and emotional depth. Across both tracks, the pair balance hypnotic grooves with melodic detail in a way that feels timeless rather than trend-led. There are clear nods to classic progressive house structures throughout, but the production stays firmly rooted in the present. Warm textures, rolling percussion and subtle tension define the EP from start to finish. To mark the release, Khen shares ten records that continue to shape his sets and wider musical identity. The selections move between deep progressive rollers, darker melodic cuts and timeless dancefloor records that prioritise feeling over excess. Eli Nissan - Hedonism This one is a true piece of art. Truly beautiful, hypnotic, and groovy with a flow that takes every floor to a different dimension. Dilby & Danny Howells - Soul Drive I’ve been a huge fan of Dilby's productions for a long time, and this collab with Danny is a great example of why. A peak-time and full-on track on the house tip that always does the trick. Y-Traxx - Mystery Land (Roy Rosenfeld Remix) A huge remix of a true classic. Very mysterious build-up, an epic breakdown, with a super tight and pumpy groove. Kasper Koman - Different Plain A perfect long intro that creates a special vibe leading into a beautiful proggy groove. Kasper is a master at these kinds of tracks, and that’s why he’s one of my favourites. Sahar Z & Shai T - Rebirth A bunker in my sets. A close to complete track that has everything I like in House, Progressive, and everything in between. Greg Ochman - Eyeshausca A super groovy melodic track with an incredible breakdown. Keeps the tension in a way that’s perfect for the dance floor. TEED - The Echo (Durante Remix) Straight, solid groove. Sometimes, simple is better. A classic progressive kind of track with a modern touch and a great vocal. Play this a lot. Mike Rish - Primah The darker side of progressive is what I usually play. Pumpy and uplifting vibe. Kyotto - Home In The Sky Very talented new artist from Sri Lanka, which is a new hotbed for my kind of sound. He debuted on my label, Closure, with a beautiful tune full of emotion. Alcatraz - Giv Me Luv (Sebastien Leger Remix) I can’t stop playing this remix from Seb. An evergreen track that I still enjoy as much today as when I was a kid. There’s a clear consistency running through these selections: Long-form tension. Emotion through groove rather than overload. Records that slowly pull a room deeper instead of demanding instant reaction. That same approach defines the ‘Retro’ EP. It’s music built for dancers who want to stay inside the journey rather than rush to the drop, balancing warmth, restraint and hypnotic energy in a way that feels increasingly rare in modern club music. Khen Instagram - Soundcloud - Spotify Yotam Avni Instagram - Soundcloud - Spotify Last Night on Earth Instagram - Soundcloud - Website Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

HOLL3 Nottingham’s HOLL3 is entering a defining moment. Her ‘Transcend EP’, released via d0ted, marks the next step for an artist translating years of dancefloor experience into sharp, genre-blending productions. Drawing from UKG, techno and bass-driven club sounds, the three-track release captures the same low-end pressure and percussive intensity that have defined her DJ sets across the UK and Ibiza. Alongside her release, HOLL3 steps up for our Hot Picks series with a selection that reveals the foundations behind her sound. Moving through nostalgic house, jungle, and modern underground club weapons, these are the records that continue to shape her identity as both a DJ and producer. Late Nite City – Head Nod [Late Nites] Had on non stop repeat this last year. The perfect level of dreamy stabs with a groovy bassline. This song just clicks in my mind, I absolutely love it. Madvilla – I Said Dance [Hot Wings Trax] After hearing Dungeon Meat first play this track out, I was desperate for the ID and eventually stumbled across it which is one of the top feelings. Since then Madvilla has become one of my favourite producers of the year. So much talent and such a unique sound which is medicine to my ears. The Trip – A Bit Spooky [Tessellate] Such an insane second drop on this track. Sounds absolutely huge in the club and is one of them which really surprises you the more the track develops. A regular in my sets. Units For Hour – I Get Ready (Bass Mental Mix) A life changing track. It changed the path I wanted to take with the music I played and produced, and made me fall deeply in love with that 90s nostalgic house style. Those who know, know. George Daniel – Screen Cleaner (Oscar Farrell Remix) Has such a naughty drop, proper bass face moment. Crowds have been loving this one in my sets recently. John Acquaviva, Dan Diamond, Alex D’Elia, Nihil Young – Good Music (St. David Club Room Remix) [Definitive Recordings] The names in the title. Relatable lyrics. A proper naughty little underground track that was made for playing in the darkest and naughtiest of clubs. Tim Reaper, Comfort Zones – All The Time [Banoffee Pies Records] Jungle is my guilty pleasure, and this one does it all for me. Expertly layered breakbeat rhythms into dazzling ambient sounds that come together to form a track that is heaven to my ears. Reaper is one of the top in the game. KAYTRANADA – Home I first discovered this track in an old 2018 set and instantly fell in love with it. He kept us waiting years before releasing it. Very special track from an insane producer. Disclosure – My Intention Is War (Fig ii) [Moda Black] Had to include one of the first artists that led to me falling in love with dance music. That old deep house sound is incredibly special and still resonates strongly today. Lone – From A Past Life [R&S Records] Another of my favourite tracks. A record that takes you away instantly into a dreamy and calm state. Forever on repeat. Taken together, HOLL3’s Hot Picks reflect an artist grounded in dance music’s lineage while pushing firmly forward. From formative discoveries that shaped her early direction to newer tracks commanding attention in her current sets, the selection mirrors the same balance of emotion and impact found across the ‘Transcend EP’. As she continues to build momentum through her productions, events and club appearances, HOLL3 is steadily defining a sound rooted in UK culture while speaking to the future of the dancefloor. HOLL3 https://www.instagram.com/holl3_dj/ https://open.spotify.com/artist/1EFei8elIe5yxmYk3A8T3Q https://soundcloud.com/holly-nicholson-1 Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

BABA New York producer BABA arrives on Modern Delivery Xpress this month with ‘River’s All Wet’, a loose-limbed house cut built around winding low-end grooves, sweeping melodies and the kind of understated movement that rewards repeat listens. The release marks the first MDX appearance from the multi-instrumentalist, whose musical roots stretch back to indie surf rock bands, piano lessons and years spent developing as a songwriter before turning his attention towards club music. That live background continues to shape his productions today, with ideas often performed rather than programmed, creating records that feel organic, fluid and full of character. Ahead of the release of ‘River’s All Wet’, we asked BABA to share some of the records that continue to inspire his approach to house music, groove and sound design. The result is a selection that moves between Hot Creations classics, deep house staples and modern club weapons, all connected by a shared sense of personality and individuality. Lee Foss – Run Around “This track is perfect within its imperfections. Throughout its runtime, the third ever Hot Creations release continuously threads the needle between dissonance and consonance. Repetitive beeps and squawks draw in a peculiar soundscape that can only really be found in this era of music. The vocals are repetitive yet switch up at the perfect moments. The whole song just feels kinked, like something is wrong with it but everything is right at the same moment. It never fails to leave me craving for more.” Crazy P – Disc Odyssey (Remix) “After seeing a video of Ben Sterling drop this track in his Raw Cuts Brooklyn set, I was instantly hooked. ‘Disc Odyssey’ has so much organic character to it. It's a perfect breather, giving the audience a fresh taste of the past while tying in the present. The second drop features a supercharged moment that I can only describe as a psychedelic explosion.” Yamagucci & Mary Jane – Please You “Yamagucci and Mary Jane really do their thing on ‘Please You’. It's a sleek, futuristic thumper with enchanting vocals and one of the catchiest, most provocative basslines I have ever heard. My favourite part about ‘Please You’ is the fact that you can listen to it in the club, in the car with your grandparents, when you are going to sleep, or when you are waking up. It’s incredibly versatile. It's one of those tracks that's easy to instantly fall in love with, especially through its beautifully curated simplicity. If a spaceship from the year 2070 were a song, it would be ‘Please You’.” Lee Foss & Lee Curtiss – Closer “‘Closer’ is hands down one of my favourite Repopulate Mars releases because it refuses to sit in a box. The synths are reminiscent of Foss’s earlier works with Hot Creations, playful yet driving. Slightly off, while being exactly where they need to be. The vocals are seductive, hypnotic and full of air. It's a quirky yet confident piece of timeless art that will forever be one of my favourite songs.” Calussa, Ammo Avenue & Jungle Jack – Vacilón “Not many tracks radiate the same warmth and comfort as ‘Vacilón’. I remember discovering this one in the peak of the NYC winter, only to feel like I was in Miami hearing the boys play it out live. The sampling is just immaculate on this one, accompanied by percussion honed through years of experience. It's impossible for me to listen to this track without feeling the irresistible urge to smile and dance.” Patrick Topping – Shwicked “This early Hot Creations release does what Lee Foss’s ‘Run Around’ achieves, perhaps in a slightly more stripped-back manner due to its lack of vocals. This song has so much space in the mix, occupied by playful, percolating synths. The bass sounds a little detuned which throws things off in the right way. ‘Shwicked’ has a certain humour to itself, a self-awareness of the absurd settings it might find itself being played in.” Jay De Lys – Someday “This elrow Music roller is an instant standout and immediately got me into Jay De Lys. The M-1 organ lead and catchy vocals drive the track while percussive elements keep the groove running on high. The track is relatively simplistic yet genius in its strategic placement of all elements. Each ingredient is clearly curated through Jay’s expertise, proving how important it is for a producer to have an artistic ear.” Babak Shayan – Believer “‘Believer’ holds an extremely special place in my heart. It represents everything I love about the Plastic City label, pure deep house class. The soft-spoken, breathy vocals are the cherry on top and the track’s blissful simplicity carries it to vast depths. The amount of space in this mix is also worth mentioning.” Nick Curly – Joystick “I could picture Nick Curly dropping this masterpiece in Ibiza with the sun beaming down on a packed dancefloor. The drums and background textures carry serious weight, but the glitched-out, hypnotic one-note synth is the true reward of ‘Joystick’. The energy is undeniably taken up a notch with this track. I can only imagine its impact live.” Nick Curly – Ushuaia “With ‘Joystick’ featuring bright spurts of energy, ‘Ushuaia’ represents the darker side of Curly’s discography. You can literally feel the lights being dimmed as you listen to this 8bit Records story. The melodic synths and samples are hard to pick apart as they deeply blend into the track. Every sound feels very rounded off in this piece. Nothing is too harsh on the ears. A whispered vocal chop percolates throughout the track and the melodic aspects yearn for more, leaving me to wonder what was running through Curly’s mind when he produced ‘Ushuaia’.” BABA Instagram - Soundcloud Modern Delivery Website - Instagram - Facebook - Twitter (X) Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features

Contact Point UK producer Contact Point returns to Make Your Era with his latest single ‘See Me’. The vocal-led UK garage record captures a moment of seasonal shift. Built on crisp 2-step rhythm, warm melodic textures and confident vocal presence, the track balances physical groove with emotional lift. Elastic bass movement drives the energy while subtle atmospheres create space for the topline to breathe. It marks another step forward for Contact Point within the label’s core roster. Curated by Vibe Chemistry, Make Your Era has steadily evolved into a platform supporting forward-thinking UK club music across bass culture, garage and drum and bass. For this edition of Hot Picks, Contact Point shares the music shaping his mindset right now. From UK rap and drum and bass to emotional vocal records and personal studio moments, the selections reflect the sounds that keep him inspired both in the studio and in everyday life. CA$PAR - Next Up Freestyle (Prod. Sempa) “Caspar is just on another level. Flow, style and vibes are all on point. And Sempa on production is the perfect match.” Kanye West - Touch The Sky ft. Lupe Fiasco “I always play this early in the day to set the mood right. Dancing around the house, getting the body moving. Pure bliss and nostalgia.” Saint Ludo x Kasst 8 - Subliminals “This one needs no explanation. Absolute wanger. Bass-heavy madness that pushes the pulse into overdrive.” Giggs & Skepta - Look Out “Two legendary figures from the UK scene. Hearing this still brings back memories of growing up. It always ends up on my morning playlist.” Dimension - Where Do We Go ft. Poppy Baskcomb “This is the kind of emotional music I love. Huge energy, powerful vocals and a track that moves constantly. Pure feeling.” Teddy Swims - Lose Control “Teddy’s voice is incredible. I love vocalists who can create this level of emotion with their voice.” Emily Makis - Too Fast “An absolute icon in the scene. Unruly, daring and inspiring. A true diamond.” Vibe Chemistry - Drink, Until I’m Blind “Vibe is one of the most versatile artists I know. His creativity and production always stand out. That dreamlike atmosphere really resonates with me.” Contact Point - Close My Eyes “This track symbolised a turning point for me. I made it in Ibiza while sitting by the pool watching the sunset. Listening back still sparks great memories.” Contact Point & Magenta - Glow “I loved making this with Magenta. We enjoy pushing boundaries and trying new ideas. It was another moment where I realised I wanted to do things differently.” Contact Point’s selections reveal a producer shaped by a wide musical palette. UK rap attitude, emotional vocal music and bass-driven club records all sit side by side, reflecting the diversity of sounds feeding into his productions. That blend is evident throughout ‘See Me’. The record taps into the rhythmic DNA of UK garage while embracing modern melodic detail and a clear vocal centre. It feels designed for movement but rooted in emotion. As the Make Your Era catalogue continues to grow, Contact Point’s latest release highlights an artist refining his voice within the evolving landscape of UK club culture. Contact Point Instagram – Spotify – SoundCloud Make Your Era Beatport – Instagram – TikTok Explore more Hot Picks: Hot Picks archive · Influences · All features