The dog days of summer are here, so let's close out the summer with the biggest tracks and anthems released over the last month. The second part of the list of bangers of all the biggest tracks from heavyweight DJs and hidden gems from under artists. Let's soak up the last weeks of summer together with tracks from Defected Records, Dirtybird, and Desert Hearts, plus underground soulful tunes. Get dark and dive deeper into the underground realm and untold stories of artists waiting to share their talent. Listen through and discover unknown DJs and upcoming producers. The third and final edition of the FRESH OFF THE BEAT summer series will be out on the final days of summer.

Chicago’s newest and only festival, ARC Festival which is dedicated to house music and techno, has announced the ARC After Dark afterparty lineups. It is heading into its third year, gaining more popularity from festival-goers plus the consecutive legendary DJs who have performed. It's about time that the birthplace of House Music has its music festival celebrating its roots and culture. The 2023 edition will be taking place Labor Day Weekend September 1-3.

Amsterdam is the mecca of dance music, some of the greatest DJs that have entered the industry over the last two decades have emerged from The Netherlands such as Armin van Buuren, Hardwell, Oliver Heldens, Joris Voorn, and Martin Garix. It's home to some of the most significant festivals in the world like Awakenings, Luminosity Beach Festival, Defqon.1, and in October, the largest dance music conference ADE (Amsterdam Dance Event). One particular DJ and producer from The Netherlands who is rapidly looming in the dance music scene is known as ØSAS ØHM. He has always been passionate about music. The euphoric feeling of making music and showcasing it in his performances translates into a universal sense. “Melodic deep house. I like to use euphoric chords and euphoric melodies, which are energetic but also deep sounding.” His following is strong and he can describe his sound as an emotional feeling instead of a sound to be heard. “Where words fail, music speaks.” - ØSAS ØHM.

Artist Interview Episode 005: ØSAS ØHM

The Beginning:

In this exclusive interview, ØSAS ØHM speaks about how he got inspired to become a DJ and producer, the person he looks up to, and music. He is still in the underground deep house scene however, he is rapidly growing with his mixes and his debut release ‘When We Were One’ on Sunchild Records. “What got me into music, I think I always had a passion for music, even when I didn't create music when I was very young, I can remember like about ten years ago, my nephew, was a DJ. I just saw that they were always doing stuff with music and I got inspired by that. So the next day I bought a DJ controller and I made music.” He created a unique melodic sound that is stirring a following. “I did a lot of different types of music. I produced hip-hop and house, mainly right now with ØSAS ØHM (pronounced as Ossos Ohm), I think it's really a bit of a melodic deep house. I really like to use euphoric chords, and euphoric melodies, really energetic, but also deep sounding.” His passion is fueled by creating music and developing a signature sound that is unusual and exceptional.

“I really try to go to all the emotions because I think many people say it's only love and light and that's really cool, like the euphoric sounds. But I also like to go to the darker type of emotions and the deeper sounds because they are also part of human life. From a spiritual standpoint you can't neglect them, you know. So I just like to make my mixtapes a kind of journey through all those emotions.”

ØSAS ØHM

His biggest inspiration and the artist he looks up to most is surprising, “it started about six years ago. I always was a fan of Martin Garrix because he was also young and he started young and he was, like in no time he became very famous. It was about six years ago, my mother, met Martin Garrix in Amsterdam. She was in a restaurant, we were friends of hers,” he continues “She met Martin Garrix, he was at dinner with Tiësto so she immediately gave me a call and she said, oh I'm with Martin Garrix in the restaurant so I got him with him on the phone because she just went up to him and we talked a bit, he also gave me his email address and from that on my real goal was to be like Martin Garrix. Not really his sound of music, I got my own sound. But I just really got inspired by his positivity, how he is with his fans, how he communicates with the fans. Just his vibe, I really like that overall said ØSAS ØHM. What Martin Garrix is doing with his platform now, is he goes to third-world countries and cities and towns and throws shows for them for free, and interacts with his fans. “I really love that about it. He is really doing something for the community and for the people who love him. He's very humble too,“ replied ØSAS ØHM. Martin Garrix is a very humble person for a DJ with that high of a status. He's a very humble person. Throughout the years of being a music journalist, I met him a couple of times he is such a nice person. “It's important to stay humble, no matter how big you are. People really appreciate it if you're humble. Even if you're like so big as Martin Garrix, just have something magical to like to stay humble and don't become too arrogant.”

The Netherlands celebrates dance music as a culture that unifies music lovers all around, excepting everyone. It's been a while since I’ve been to The Netherlands, I've been to festivals and ADE events at Gashouder in 2018 and Awakenings Festival in 2017. “What I like most about the dance music culture, is there's some form of unity. About a year ago I went to Tomorrowland for the first time in my life. My uncle, he works at Jupiler, and BUD and he was able to get me an extra pass. So we went there and it's funny, about two, three years ago, I stopped making dance music, EDM all together because I got a bit of like I got some losses and I wasn't feeling inspired after all and I just said, fuck it, I'm going to do hip hop. Maybe there's where I find my success. I tried and I tried, and then I went to Tomorrowland one year ago and I came back and I really felt that I need to go to the dance music, to the dance music world again. That's just where my passion is and I like how people are feeling connected when they are at a festival like Tomorrowland. Just incomparable to any other music genre in my opinion,” said ØSAS ØHM. It doesn’t even compare to how much effort and passion the festival and event producers put into creating these iconic shows, between the carefully created lineups, the details, food, organization, pyro, and technology. “It's just lovely how the dance music and the dance culture are really integrated into the Netherlands. It's just special. I actually feel blessed that I'm born in this country because of all the other big DJs that came from here.”

ØSAS ØHM's very first moment began ten years ago when he first ever attempted DJing and already produced music at that time. “I think it was like really when ‘Animals’ by Martin Garrix first came out, he really inspired me because it became so big overnight a lot of people say overnight with you really worked I had like two-three years. He wasn't famous at all and he just kept working But like the moment that you really get discovered by a big label and they see the value in you You really can grow and really big really fast and that really inspired me.” Back then, ‘Animals’ was a different and unique sound that everyone couldn’t get enough of, everyone venue wanted him to headline, every media site wanted an interview and his name was on every lineup.

Developing the Signature Sound:

Throughout the years dance music evolved along with artists also evolving, trying to stay current even changing their form and sound. “First of all, I want to put my passion into the music. I want to put my feelings into it. I really try to create a signature sound that nobody has. I also feel like there's in the sound that I have, I'm really into the melodic house. In the last couple of years, I felt a bit of a trend going on. Towards the melodic house and the melodic techno as well the specific genre is getting big, so I'm trying to wave a little bit. Just besides getting a signature sound, because it's just really important, I try to stand out in a way, like when I'm on stage when I'm with people I don't know if I got fans already, but when I got people who really got inspired by my music, just to treat them well and just be loving. Just like Martin Garrix, because he makes incredible music, but a big part of his success is just the person he is and the pureness in himself, you know. That's just, that's really important. It's just all kinds of factors. I think it starts with, of course, just putting the work in, in the studio, and just making something that feels good and it really comes from the heart. Don't try to use a formula to make commercial music that you think can be a hit. Just do something that you love, because it's lasting.” When you listen to his mixtape, it takes you on a journal of emotions. Which is what his main goal was in the process of creating it. You can feel the passion and euphoric feelings through each transition.

Making the Transition:

His journey is only the beginning with releasing his debut single ‘When We Were One’ on Sunchild Records to his mixtape. He dabbled in making hip-hop but then realized he wanted to re-enter back in the dance music industry not music it's more popular these days globally, but because that’s where he belonged and that’s what his true passion really is. “I'm more proud of all these tiny steps. I don't know if there's particularly one big thing but I think it is because like two years ago I was into that hip-hop. I was only doing hip-hop and it was maybe just a cope mechanism because I didn't want to go back to dance music because I failed the first time and I thought, I will never make it. I think the moment after Tomorrowland that I decided, I'm just going to let go of that hip-hop world, it's not my world anyways. I'm just gonna start pursuing dance music because that's what I really dreamt of as a kid. Those people normally I think they're gonna give up in like two or three years. Of course, there are some producers who just started, and two years ago or two years after that they just got a huge hit and they got big. But 99.99% of the time I think you really need to put at least like seven, or eight years in. Using your dog just making music just doing stuff Before you can actually make something that's worth it and of its labels think oh, I want to sign it one.”

ØSAS ØHM - When We Were One

ØSAS ØHM is working hard in making his true passion into a full-time lifestyle and full-fledged career. Playing at sold-out events and festivals, getting him on lineups to dream festivals like Ultra Music Festival in Miami, and Tomorrowland. This media site is meant for artists such as ØSAS ØHM who is more upcoming in his country but unknown in the states. MyPlayground Media is here to shine the light on the underground on a global base. “Tomorrowland is number one, at the main stage, that's like the ultimate goal and play at Ultra Music Festival in Miami. I like any festival I just like to be connected to the crowd and it can be on a big stage but also on a really small one but I think it's too much land that's like the ultimate goal at least for like the European people I don't think maybe for the American people it's more like Ultra Music Festival. Tomorrowland, it's magical, when you step in there, it's like a fairy tale you're entering with music. It's also like really the vision of, like in the general, in the world. We all have that vision of coming together in peace, with all these wars and things going on, the left versus the right and black versus white in Tomorrowland, everybody is coming together and just loving the music. If like the whole world could be like Tomorrowland it would be amazing,” said ØSAS ØHM. His dream collaboration would have to be Martin Garrix, when asked, “I'm just open to a lot of collaborations. Every artist has his unique sound. I'm just really curious about how their sounds can inspire my sound and not only in that collab but also in the future, how they can inspire me to do new things. Artists to name other than Garix would beI really love Meduza a lot, they're really dope! Also, Vintage Culture, and Rufus du Sol.” 

On The Horizon:

The underground artist should be on your radar, between his debut release and mixtape, plus upcoming music in the works. “I'm working on a remix project. I'm doing this for the Armada Music remix contest of Seq. Martino Kill My Heart. It's already finished so I hope that it's gonna be released on Armada Music of course.” He will be on the road soon performing at nightclubs in Amsterdam and throughout the Netherlands. Amsterdam Dance Event recently release their first artists phase it will be the perfect opportunity to showcase his work and network there. He has new projects in the works, going strong never giving up, and maintaining that focus to become a successful DJ. “I'm currently working on two new projects. The other two projects I'm like still working on and I still need to find a label that maybe wants to release them. So yeah, definitely more music coming soon.”

“I'm like the worst self-critic but that's a curse it's also can be a blessing because when I make a track and when I'm often when I make it that's the worst part of it the curse I don't like it when it's finished as I listen to it so many times and I think you need to send it. For the track I do after that, I always try to search for the tiny little thing in the previous track that just didn't work out or just try to fine-tune that. With every track, I try to get a little bit better and that process in itself is already a big motivation for me.”

ØSAS ØHM

Interview Segment: ‘Either/ Or'

Wine or beer?

“Beer, I love beer!

Normal hours or after hours at a club?

"Normal."

American football or football soccer?

“American football.”

Club or festival?

“Festival”

Techno or house music?

“House Music. But I also love techno festivals.”

Walk or run?

“I go running once a week running. Before I go to sleep I always try to go on a walk for 20 minutes.”

Day event or weekend festival?

“Day Event.”

Perform Back-to-back or Solo?

“SOLO.”

Underground warehouse raves or an organized rave at a venue?

“I love the vibe of the underground.”

“Just keep, definitely for the artists who are listening, keep making music, and keep chasing your dreams. Keep loving, because getting your dreams is cool, but if you don't, if you're friends, we're gonna party with you and celebrate with you. The success is not good. You just need people who love you around you. Also just follow Myplayground Media of course! Follow the podcast, and follow you on Instagram. And it would also really be nice if you guys can follow me on Instagram.”

ØSAS ØHM

FOLLOW ØSAS ØHM:

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The summer and the official festival season have arrived, which means a boast of new releases for the perfect setting for Ibiza, open-air events, rooftops, pool, and the beach. FRESH OFF THE BEAT is back in the official summer playlist, this is only part one of the summer series playlists. The first edition features local and internal talent from full EPs to techno remixes and house bangers. This will jolt emotions and body to ultimate levels with these next-level bangers and soon-to-be summer anthems.

Joe Pompeo is one of those artists that has made an impact with his platform in the New York dance music industry. He’s known for his creativity blending elements in house music. The insanely talented DJ and producer express his passion through his love of the genre. This statue of talent gained two releases on Green Velvet/ Cajmere’s infamous Cajual Records, plus Salted Music, Beatdown, Nervous, and airplay on Radio 1 by Annie Mac. His first Salted release “Try to Love Me” was remixed by Miguel Migs and licensed to Miguel’s second “Get Salted” mix compilation. He has a unique talent in his production and DJ sets and a long-running DJ residency at multiple popular nightclubs such as TBA Brooklyn, Ceilo, Output, and Sullivan Room. He has played alongside Charles Meyer, Detlef, and others at multiple elrow New York residency events. Pompeo is the type of artist that pushes boundaries and extends the bar of performance. Taking over the decks and the crowd in the perfect formality takes specific expertise to do it the right way.  His form of mixing and transitioning each track in every set in the art of craft makes him the unique underground artist Pompeo is known for. Recently, I had the opportunity to conduct an exclusive interview with the underground DJ and producer. Digging deeper into the minds of one of New York's well-known artists and getting to know more Joe Pompeo. The humble and laid-back artist spoke about the challenges and the perks of being a DJ in the beginning and today’s music scene, how New York dance music shaped him as an artist, and new music in the works.

“You end up with the people who think they should be listening to you, wanting to hear you play those big tunes that they've heard, and then it becomes soulless. You become a jukebox. I want to play my style of music inspired by the New York scene of the 90s, Chicago House, a little bit of acid, a little bit like European techno mixed up what you want.” 

Listen to the full Artist Interview: Joe Pompeo

The Beginning:

It always didn’t start easy, it usually never is easy to make a famous name, especially as DJ and music producer. Even twenty, thirty, and forty years ago when there was no social media or barely any internet. “Back then it was definitely tougher in the early 2000s. You had to have a lot of money to open a studio. You couldn't just have a computer as you can nowadays and download some software. It was more hardware-based, so it was a little bit more difficult. You had to get in and do that,” said Joe Pompeo. Making music and getting music out to the public as a DJ is tricky, artists had to be original and come up with effective ideas. Although back then not too many cared about the artist and the name as people take so seriously and aggressively today. Only if you were the original O.G. legends like Paul van Dyk, Frankie Knuckles, and Danny Tenaglia. “So we went out one night and they took me up to see Danny Tanaglia at Vinyl. People say they have an eye-opening moment, and it was just, that was it. I remember going out that one night and saying like, holy shit, this is good stuff. I want to do this. I want this to be a part of my life." So yeah, that's kind of how I got into the whole dance music thing.” At that moment Joe Pompeo’s life was changed. He carefully tabled and experimented with different sounds and baselines to create his own original style. He slowly crafted together tracks on different labels, getting his name throughout the dance community and industry. Labels such as New York’s top house music label Rawsome Recordings, Space Invaders, and mentioned before on Cajmere’s infamous Cajual Records with his EP ‘Keep it Up’. This was one of Pompeo’s favorite pieces of work and label it with work. “It's definitely Casual. I had the most success from that label. It was great to have Sunny Federa introduce me to Green Velvet/ Cashmere. So that was really cool. It was great to work with him. He gave a lot of good feedback on the tracks. But yeah, it was definitely my favorite label to work with by far.” Then it was asked if would he consider releasing music again on Cajual Records. “Yes, I would love to. He doesn't really do Casual too much anymore.”

Making An Impact:

Joe Pompeo has been making an impact both stateside and overseas via his DJ sets and productions. Well known for blending house and tech house elements, Joe has created a unique production style, earning him fast support from top international DJs. As was said before he enjoyed dabbling with different sounds to stand out. “I like evolving as an artist, but sometimes to go in a direction from, Oh, I'm playing house and now I'm playing borderline techno because that's essentially what he does. I feel like that would be too much of a drastic shift. Well, I would love to get on Relief. I just feel like I'd rather stay true to my sound and not do that.”

During his career as a DJ and a producer, he faced some struggles from an emerging artist to a well-known resident. Learning to face those struggles and overcome them as a DJ can be difficult constantly overcoming obstacles every day, testing yourself and as an artist. Plus not get lost in the famous and all the perks that come along with being an all-around DJ and producer. It is hard to fall off and it's hard to stay afloat, consistently keep up with the crowd, and stay true to your sound. Pompeo faces all these challenges every day as an artist and stays social, and maintains a good image. 

“The hardest part is probably the, I don't want to use the word struggle because it's not a struggle, but just the constant struggle and the pressure you put on yourself to want to do good and achieve and do better. I think that's kind of the hardest part. There are a lot of aspects to it too, especially in dance music. Having to go out and be social all the time as well. That becomes a little bit of a challenge at times, just because you have to have so much time to do so many different things. But yeah, definitely that's the hardest part.” 

“The best part, I guess, is just the reward that comes with it. Obviously, if you make a good song, if either a big DJ plays it or it does well on Beatport, that's always rewarding especially. No one really knows how long the artist put into, the time they put in a single track, which these days is very easily disposable. Something's cool for a week or two, and then no one's really going to hear it after that unless it's a really good song. That's the rewarding part.”

NYC Nightlife:

Throughout the years he established a name in the New York City dance community and it was then Pompeo continued to perform at iconic nightclubs and gain tight support and following. “I think just the community in New York is super, super strong.” Especially in house music where he thrived mainly and tech house. Although some of the top nightclubs he played at are unfortunately shut down for good. As DJs and producers evolve so does the nightlife. “I would say Vinyl. He talks about his favorite old clubs and his favorite moments. A lot of people don't know what Vinyl is. So Vinyl was a little club on Hubert Street in Manhattan, down in the East Village. It was strictly an after-hours club that had no liquor license. That's where I heard Tenaglia play first and it was just a small room. It had a low ceiling, but it had an amazing sound. And the lights in there, it's hard to explain. It's hard to say, "Oh wow. The lights in the place were amazing. It really made it." I kind of judge every club that I go to after Vinyl. I can't find anything like it. Maybe because it was just the first venue I went to, but it was a really, really good place. Cielo would definitely be second on the list because we held the residency there for a couple of years. Output was also a great venue. I played there a lot as well, but I definitely, yeah, I definitely like Cielo. I would say. Not like it, but I would want Cielo to come back.”

Listen to Joe Pompeo's Exclusive Guest Mix:

Inspiration:

The process of making a track can be different for every artist, everyday life, nature or a meaningful memory are all elements of inspiration for a DJ and producer. Throughout Pompeo’s epic DJ performances and massive bangers, the process of making a track and the inspiration behind them are unique. “So the inspiration for a track, it comes in many different forms, I think. I might find a vocal sample that says, "Oh wow, I like this. I want to use this for a song that I'm working on." Or I hear a sound from a synthesizer that I'm just kind of playing around with or something. I wouldn't say there's a direct inspiration for my music and say, "Oh, this is what I pull off of for every track I make." It kind of just comes in various forms. And that'll kind of inspire me to say, "Hey, let me do this." If I hear a cool loop or anything.”

Pompeo has worked with many artists before and has been on multiple compilations but who is his all-time dream collaboration? “High up on the list would definitely be Darius Syrossian. I really like him. I like all the stuff he puts out on Moxie Muzik. Darius is awesome! Guys like Latinum or Detlef, I really like that kind of sound. It would be awesome to collaborate with him. Obviously to do something with Green Velvet/ Cashmere remixed one of my songs. But to actually work on a track with him, I think would be kind of a next-level vibe. Danny Tanaglia. would definitely be up there as well.”

READ Darious Syrossian Interview

Over the years, and with his hard work and dedication, Joe Pompeo has become a main staple in the New York City dance music industry. “It's good. It's a lot of fun. It definitely is a lot of fun. It was awesome that people and the perks! Yeah, there's definitely always some perks. Not having to pay to get into any clubs is always fun. I can say I haven't done that in a long time.”

“Obviously just the people. I enjoy going out sometimes and seeing people I haven't seen in five or so years or a long time, or just reconnecting with them and everything like that. I think just the community in New York is super, super strong. And I've met so many people and have so many friends just from a kick and a snare drum. Put that in simplest terms, so yeah. I really think that's a big perk. People don't understand why. It's the music industry and stuff, but just the community and everything, I think is a big part of it, and I like that”

On The Horizon:

From one upcoming DJ and producer to a professional, here are some inspirational words from Joe Pompeo for the next generation of house music artists in the New York City community. Any advice in the industry can be helpful to anyone trying to get their foot in the door or moving to the next step. “I mean, just be true to your sound. Definitely, you're going to have to put in a lot of work. Definitely going to have to go out and learn how to network. And there are definitely a lot more factors in the game now as having good social media obviously helps. You can't just be a good DJ and then that's it. You know, you have to do everything and you have to be ready to do it yourself in the beginning. So just be ready to work.”

Joe Pompeo x MyPlayground Beatport Playlist

Interview Segment: ‘Either/ Or'

So crunchy or soft tacos?

"Oh, crunchy Tacos."

Eat out or cook at home?

"Definitely eat out. I never cook at home it's so rare. I eat out."

Football or football, like soccer.

"Soccer, a hundred percent. A hundred percent. Big soccer fan!"

Coffee or tea?

"Coffee."

Club sets or festival sets?

"Club sets a hundred percent!"

'90s techno house music or today's music?

"Today's music, yeah. The '90s were cool, but definitely, today's music is better. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. Better produced."

Fly or drive?

Fly! I hate driving.

Vinyl or DJ programs?

"I play off USB sticks. I would love to play on vinyl again. While I love the mobility of a USB stick. Not carrying around crates of records. There was just something cool about playing on vinyl."

Backstage or dancing in the crowd?

“I do like going out into the crowd and dancing and hearing the sound of the club or the venue that I'm at. Just seeing everything. Yeah, exactly. But yes, when it comes to just having some room and your own bathroom or whatever they have back there. I'm mainly backstage but sometimes I'll like to walk around.”:

Early set or a late set?

“Both, to be honest with you both because I have a lot of early music that I would love to play that I don't necessarily get a chance to play if I was playing a later set. But obviously, the later set has better energy and more people. So both. I don't prefer one or the other, but I would never want to cut out an early set from playing them. Yeah. Yeah. I don't mind playing chill kind of opening stuff.”

Warehouse or nightclub?

“Definitely a nightclub. The warehouse serves its purpose and it's cool, but I definitely prefer a nightclub.”

Normal hours or after hours?

“Normal hours. After-hours are few and far between for me these days. But yeah, I'd definitely rather go home at four. Nothing really productive happens after hours. But yeah, it's still fun after hours, especially in New York. You can't be in New York after hours, I'll tell you that.”

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FRESH OFF THE BEAT returns, this week the segment features the likes of new uprising talent and heavyweight legends. Canvasing over multiple genres and sub-genres plus introducing projects from indie electronic artists. Featuring the likes of Domnbresky, The Chemical Brothers, Icarus, and Bacavi. This playlist article will keep you dancing till the weekend and beyond.

New York City is the mecca of nightlife, with multiple iconic nightclubs for decades, plus legendary parties and events. Recently featured in the article New Era of Nightlife, MUSICA NYC is one of the hottest dance club destinations. Recently relaunching this year with new audio-visual features and outstanding dance music artists. Now, venturing into the warmer months, MUSICA is thrilled to announce its stacked upcoming spring and summer lineup.

READ: NEW ERA OF NYC NIGHTLIFE

Starting off this proficient array of the spring and summer schedule is the talented deep house and progressive duo act Eli & Fur this weekend, April 8. Preparing for the well-known giant birthday debut celebration MUSICA NYC is house and techno hero Victor Calderone on April 22. Followed by trance legend, Ferry Corsten on April 28, and rising Ukrainian DJ and producer that is known for her uplifting melodic techno sound Korolova on April 29. Melodic trance extraordinaire and Anjunabeats mainstay Ilan Bluestone will make his MUSICA NYC debut on May 5, followed by progressive house legend John Digweed on May 20, the month continues with the highly-anticipated NYC debut of rising Afterlife sensation Chris Avantgarde on May 19, and progressive house and techno star Cristoph on June 3. JUST ANNOUNCED: The loveable sloth daddy returns to New York City for his MUSICA debut, Sacha Robbti along with uprising Dillon Nathaniel on June 17. As the summer continues, more shows will be announced, and MUSICA NYC prepares to make this season unforgettable by welcoming high-elite artists and underground talent. Follow MUSICA NYC and MyPlayground Media's social media channels for more updates.

MUSICA NYC is a Dream Hospitality venue powered by a seasoned team of nightlife and marketing professionals - JonPaul Pezzo owner of Trust Us Events, Mario Danza (TTYL), and Real Talent Management who are determined to revive the city’s house and techno ties and bring the beat back. Giuseppe Cipriani, and Tito Pinton, are the mastermind owners of MUSICA. Cipriani is a global brand famous for superior service in the hospitality industry. Originating in Riccione, Italy (the capital of the nation’s nightlife.) MUSICA brings traditions and charm, reinventing the status quo of what club in New York City should be. Its multi-level dance floor, VIP balcony, and state-of-the-art sound system provide an immersive atmosphere that aims to provide its guests with intimate clubbing experiences soundtracked by some of dance music’s top-billed artists. The sprawling venue offers completely different experiences and endless possibilities on each floor of the venue. Donned as The Whisper Room, the ground floor offers an opulent stage, a private green room, private luxury booths, and state-of-the-art lighting and sound. A massive versatile event space, the Main Floor consists of 2 bars, a VIP lounge, a cocktail lounge, an intelligent lighting and sound system, and a newly-installed immersive video wall. Bringing tradition and charm to the edge of Manhattan, the illustrious venue offers attendees one-of-a-kind events that can’t be recreated, only experienced.

As house and techno options continue to expand in Brooklyn, MUSICA aims to bridge the gap for Manhattan club-goers who are looking for a more local and accessible experience, without diluting the essence of what the underground nightlife scene has to offer. Setting itself apart from any other venue or nightclub in New York City, MUSICA’s upcoming calendar will provide an immersive musical affair quite unlike anything ever seen before.

CURRENT MUSICA NYC SHOWS:

April 8: Eli & Fur
April 21: Pei Pei
April 22: Victor Calderone
April 28: Ferry Corsten
April 29: Korolova
May 5: Ilan Bluestone
May 19: Chris Avantgarde
May 20: John Digweed
June 3: Cristoph

JUST ANNOUNCED: June 17: Sacha Robotti + Dillon Nathaniel

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Chicago’s flagship techno and house music festival, ARC has announced its initial lineup. The infamous festival has rapidly grown since its first debut, ARC heads into its third year firmly rooted as a fan-favorite in the global festival circuit, continuing to bring in internationally renowned talent to the birthplace of house music. Over its short span, ARC has already grounded and established a legacy as a music event uniting scenes and connects communities. Inviting iconic label parties to collaborate, creating an international scale. ARC continues to expand as a leading name in the global scene by shining a spotlight on the rich cultural heritage of Chicago house music and bridging the genre’s local and global pioneers with the next generation of world-class artists. The 2023 edition will be taking place September 1-3 at Union Park.

In the dance music community, Labor Day is the weekend when multiple festivals take place. It solidifies the closing weekend of the festival season, bringing together multiple genre communities and creating new memories. There are many reasons why ARC Festival should be on your festival calendar but we highlighted five important reasons that make the house music and techno festival so unique. 

Underground Artists

This year’s lineup showcases a wide variety of house music and techno, inviting global international DJs and producers. ARC Festival highlights and provides an opportunity for upcoming underground artists. The 2023 ARC ballot features talented underground artists in the likes of UK upbeat house music DJ and producer Fleur Shore, with her wild and elaborate production. Australian-based DJ and producer, Mall Grab will take over the decks with his vibrant attitude and style of sound. The Australian operates at a fast pace and a dangerously high frequency that has been impossible to ignore. Turkish DJ and producer, Carlita will bring her inventive talent and psychedelic sound to the ARC festival. Her sound materialized from Insanbal, incorporating her Turkish roots and instrumental percussions to create her own unique and distinctive take on house and techno. Along with the heavyweight techno and house music icons taking over the stages at ARC, the festival will not be complete without the upcoming talent.

Elrow Returns as Stage Host

Spanish party outfit Elrow will return to ARC. The iconic loco fiesta will bring its signature love and dance and colorful vibes for elrow’s takeover. Known for its renowned psychedelic production and outrageous surprises, performers and hijinx have made it one of the most celebrated brands in the world. Elrow is touching down bespoke events annually in Barcelona, Ibiza, New York, London, Dubai, Miami, Las Vegas, Sydney, and many more essential markets. This year at ARC Festival, elrow will represent its only festival stage takeover in the USA.

Eric Prydz presents HOLO

Eric Prydz returns this year with his iconic HOLO show. The magnificent event takes dancers on a journey through sight and sounds with his jaw-dropping 3D visuals. The eye-popping, mindblowing visuals are unique all their own, becoming a viral sensation through social media. It's a treat and a dream to be a part of the experience,  at a HOLO show, you are entering the mind of Eric Prydz. HOLO has toured many festivals such as Tomorrowland, and Creamfields, but never at an American festival, making its debut US festival appearance. Techno legend Adam Beyer also makes his return following last year’s monumental back-to-back with Prydz’ Cirez D alias. Perhaps the two might perform a surprise set, who knows?

Chicago Icons

Chicago has shaped the dance music industry for decades, some of the most famous house and techno talent emerged from the city. Without Chicago house, there would be no dance music. From the early days of dance music, Chicago was one of the first cities to experience the global phenomenon. The lineup would not be complete without its house music architects such as Derrick Carter. His sets are rooted in-house, but he freely travels outside club tastes, seamlessly incorporating old-school disco, soul, jazz, and whatever catches his fancy. The bonafide house legend, Gene Farris has been molding the scene since the beginning. He's been pushing musical boundaries for close to three decades, from spinning at underground warehouse parties in the early 90s to working with the current crop of world-leading labels and artists. International DJ, singer, songwriter, and landmark figure of dance music, Colette. She first gained attention when she started singing over her DJ mixes and became a resident at Chicago’s SmartBar. She teamed up with the legendary house and techno artists for some of her biggest singles and releases. Including DJ Heather who is also on this year’s ARC lineup. DJ Heather is another Chicago household native who has been lighting up the dance floors with her unique rhythms and catchy beats. Trailblazer, DJ Lady D has been playing internationally as well as in Chicago’s major nightclubs for the better part of two decades. She has garnered a loyal following and reputation as a headliner. Fall in line alongside acid-house artist Hiroko Yamamura. Once she hits the decks, the isolation melts away as she lights up dance floors with an homage to the House, Acid, and techno sounds that shaped the Chicago Rave Sound. Alongside are some Detroit pioneers like Carl Craig, Moodymann, and DJ Minx.

Festival Experience

Over the past three-year expansion, the ARC festival has come a long way from a two-day festival to a full weekend event. Inviting global and local talented artists and impressive lineups each year that alone will draw huge crowds across the country. Every festival strives to be the best and offer the greatest experience to every attendee and artist. ARC fans will also be treated to intimate afterparties across Auris Presents and ARC partner venues RADIUS, Cermak Hall, PRYSM, Concord Music Hall, and more. ARC AFTER DARK will soon release upcoming before and after parties to keep the momentum going throughout the entire weekend. Snag your party passes. Every festival has an information page, but ARC is the only festival that has a hotline. People can call the active number for a special message from the artists of ARC, special promotions, and secret information about the festival. Call 312-897-2030 and leave ARC a special message. The city of Chicago will be transformed by the inspirational cultural movement of house music. Attendees will be surrounded by impeccable art and decor, handmade statues, and creative sculptures plus innovative side activities and vendors. The Auris Presents team will lead these efforts, bringing decades of unique event experience and curation across their independent endeavors.

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This week's edition of, FRESH OFF THE BEAT features a slew of deep house, techno, and house music tracks straight from the underground scene. Including heavyweight pioneers of our time and classic legends. Mixing in this week's edition of the new segment are some remixes, and edits from old tracks with a revamped twist to them. There will be tour dates along the way from emerging and mainstage artists.

This new segment features the latest releases from DJs and producers from all realms of electronic dance music. Each week, FRESH OFF THE BEAT will offer a canvas of new tracks and remixes. This week the ballot of new tunes ranges from Afro-House, Techno, Future Bass, and House Music. Touching on DJ heavyweights and underground talent, showcasing all the new talent, music, and remixes to keep you moving into the week.

JAKE SILVA, FERRIGNO & AMARI - 'DANCE' [HOUSE OF TALENTS]

Emerging from New York City, Portuguese DJ, and producer Jake Silva has captured the attention of dance music fans with his niche production style and captivating energy. Jake has earned a reputation for his energetic and unique sets across some of New York's most iconic nightlife venues including  Lavo, Nebula, Harbor New York City, and many more. Transferring from performing behind the decks to the studio Jake has teamed up with rising Italian talent Ferrigno and Belgium-based DJ and producer AMARI for his first official release. Serving as his release debut on AMARI's prolific imprint House of Talents.

sumthin sumthin - 'Take Me Home'

Alison Wonderland's newly-minted imprint FMU Records continues the rapid expansion of its catalog with 'Take Me Home.' It’s the latest single from one of California's most exciting players in bass music, sumthin sumthin. Arriving on the heels of stunning tracks from Jon Casey, Dabow, and Whyte Fang. This marks the first release of the year from sumthin sumthin, building upon his contributions to the ranks of globally beloved labels such as Bassrush, Deadbeats, Jadu Dala, and Quality Goods Records. 'Take Me Home' sees sumthin sumthin experiment with airy electronic elements, pushing forward his innate mastery of juxtaposing light and dark styles to deliver a sonic treat primed for sweaty warehouse spaces.

Mau P - 'Gimme That Bounce'

Dutch underground newcomer Mau P became a household name across international dance floors last summer. Kicking off this year with a fresh new infectious house gem, ‘Gimme That Bounce.’ It then builds up with sizzling high-hats, thumping kick drums, chopped-up, appropriately bouncy vocal samples, and an engine-revving riser before dropping into its dancefloor-igniting central section. Mixed with futuristic beats and vibrant synths packed with a massive drop. Showcasing his talent and creativity in all spectrums in creating the next hit anthem.

Modapit - 'Dancing'

An implement of the electronic dance music scene, Modapit is already pushing boundaries between appearance, music, and production. Covered in their signature fishnet veil, black-on-black gothic, edgy attire. Modapit is revving up towards their debut album, a full-length project that promises to further spotlight the producer's uplifting, goth-techno aura. Releasing the first single of the upcoming album is the dark and defying techno track, 'Dancing.’ Perfectly suitable for the dancefloors from the title and infectious rhythm and deep house grooves and techno synths. Modapit delivers characteristic pop-electronic catharsis to every beat. Reaching different realms of dance music, creating an authentic track that will take over on an international level. 

Jickow - 'Nòstra Dòna De La Gàrdia'

Back on the release radar, with another mesmeric new offering, releasing his new EP and the titled single on his imprint. Featuring a stunning remix courtesy of the legendary Nick Muir. Starting off the new year right, the 'Nòstra Dòna De La Gàrdia' EP is out now across all streaming platforms. The aptly titled imprint Olympe serves as an homage to Jickow's hometown of Marseille, France. The imprint aims to channel the authentic perspectives of both established and upcoming talents. Reflected in the EPs title, the 2-tracker references Marseille's Notre-Dame de la Garde, known to locals as Bonne Mère and written in the Provençal dialect as 'Nòstra Dòna De La Gàrdia'.

GetCosy - 'Hercules'

GetCosy returns to Dirtybird Records with a monstrous two-track EP. With its name derived from Greek mythology, GetCosy’s ‘Hercules’ EP is a sonic serpentine into techno's dark and devious side. Filled with textured basslines and distorted percussion, the titular track blasts off into a powerful, fast-paced modular synth anthem. GetCosy cements his status as one of Dirtybird’s rising talents. GetCosy is a Russian tech-house producer known for his effective and punchy music. An artist with considerable experience, GetCosy has appeared on labels such as Box Of Cats, My Techno Weighs A Ton, Wyldcard Records, Main Course, and more.

SUPERSKI - ‘Ajax Planet’

Eliott Litrowski and Voiski better known as SUPERSKI are back in the music scene again with 'Ajax Planet' a new retro-futuristic arrow with rave accents that sums up the desire behind the project. Flowing with positive energetic club music mixing their two universes, between electro and post-trance. Their debut album 'Mondo Moderno' will be out on March 31.

BLOND:ISH, Eran Hersh, Darmon - Sorry (with Madonna)

This anticipating track has been gearing up for this moment. A rendition from the original ‘Sorry’ reimagined by the talented DJ and producer, BLOND:ISH and LA-based Eran Hersh, Darmon, and Pop icon, Madonna. A groovy and tranquil touch and seductive, dark vocals blend the track into a unique style making it her own. Her artistry of recrafting the entire track morphing it into her own. She’ll be playing the new track in all her sets. Getting approval from Madonna herself, the new version of 'Sorry' is out via Insomniac Records.

Harry Romero & HoneyLuv - ‘Inside My Mind’

Talent house and techno producer and DJ HoneyLuv is of the hottest breakthroughs on an international level. She has become an essential figure in a new generation of Black artists shaping the sound of dance music. Her newest and most brilliant collaboration with house music legend Harry Romero is ‘Inside My Mind.’ Delivering brilliant talent equally from both producers, this dark original is a sleek gem for any dancefloor. Featuring both artists trading off on vocals, it bursts with an energetic tech-heavy flow. This year, HoneyLuv will continue to dominate clubs and festival stages around the globe, with performances at EDC Mexico, Hangout Music Festival, Sunset Music Festival, FVDED In The Park, and Fisher’s inaugural Triip Festival in Malta.

Danny Goliger & Choopsie - ‘Cycling’ [Dirtybird White Label]

The latest release from the fast-rising talent can only be with Dirtybird White Label. Each delivers impeccable rhythm and groove from all sides. ‘Cycling’ offers two distinct broken-beat instrumentals that will keep listeners on their toes with every twist and turn. The percussive-heavy track ripples with sharp cutting tones and an intoxicating baseline. Scattered with bright vocal chops and cadenced drum patterns by lush melancholic tones creating an intricately layered soundscape. In typical White Label fashion, ‘Cycling’ arrives as a vinyl release, available for purchase.

Floorplan - ‘We Give Thee Honor’

Techno siblings Robert and Lyric Hood return as Floorplan for another divine house track. ‘We Give Thee Honor’, a high-energy cut teased during their set at Nuits Sonores festival in Lyon, caught the attention of Classic label boss Luke Solomon. The record creates the unique energy of worship in full flow, with a vocal loop and gospel energy.

Adam Beyer - 'Legend'[Drumcode Records]

Drumcode label boss, Adam Beyer kicks off the year with a huge future classic, ‘Legend.’ A driven hypnotic dark track loaded with core percussion with a giant build-up releasing into a powerful drop. It's always exciting when Adam Beyer releases new music, it spreads like a techno virus. 'Legend' has been a highlight of the Drumcode boss’s sets stretching back to last summer. Key shows where the world-class DJ and producer highlighted the track in his sets include Tomorrowland, Creamfields, Ultra Europe, Printworks, and Elrow; in Ibiza, it was a fixture across his gigs at Hï, Amnesia, and Pacha.

&friends ft. Oluwadamvic -'Love Is The Way'

Sean Thomas also known as &friends start the new year with another unique original release, 'Love Is The Way' ft. Oluwadamvic. Out via Thomas’ own Hidden Hands imprint the latest single sets the tone for a milestone year of new releases and tour dates fans can expect to see from the rising act across the year ahead. Soulful, uplifting lyrics from Oluwadamvic are expertly harmonized alongside a buoyant and vibrant electronic production built upon a percussive foundation of afro-house. Momentous builds and melodic breakdowns craft a cinematic soundscape narrated by the West African vocalist, who describes love as being the only way we can move forward as a society.

John Summit - 'In Chicago' (Danny Avila Remix)

The highly anticipated debut release on John Summit’s label Off The Grid, ‘In Chicago’ has now a new official remix release from Spanish DJ and producer Danny Avila. Playing to the intensity of the original version with its rich synth soundscapes and suitably full-throttle bassline, this mix showcases Danny’s signature mainstage-ready sound. This remix packs the expected punch from two of electronic music’s most talked-about producers.