Author Archives: Tyler Trew

About Tyler Trew

Senior Editor. Spotify Curator. Lead Burrito Taste-Tester. Follow @TylerTrew23

[House] The Music Ninja Artist Focus: Draxx

Posted by Tyler Trew - November 2, 2023

If there is one person making a huge splash within the tech house space, it is Draxx, he is simply a force that cannot be stopped – his artistry echoing through the hearts of audiences and fellow creators alike. With a profound knack for crafting tracks that resonate at the very soul of the electronic music world, Draxx is on the right track and other A-list names in the industry seem to think so as well — Cloonee, Hugel, John Summit, Sosa, and Gordo, to just name a small few. His musical narratives have been ardently embraced by the most prestigious labels in the domain: Nonstop, Nervous, Insomniac, Glasgow Underground, and Moon Harbour, all have scooped up the sonic cleverness he is dishing out.

The saga of his track “WTF” is a moment that really summarizes Draxx well, the song climbed to the 32nd position on the Beatport main chart and the 11th place in the tech house charts. It found a home on Spotify’s ‘Tech House Operator’ playlist, as well. Not far behind, “Ponteme” and the remix of “Hayabusa” garnered significant accolades, staking their claims on Beatport’s charts too.

Amidst a blend of hefty achievements, Draxx’s collaborations with Hugel, Malone, and Cvmpanile on “TuTuTu,” released through Insomniac Records, is a song to notice bursting with great vibes from start to finish. With a constellation of tracks poised for release on leading labels in 2024 and a calendar brimming with collaborations, remixes, and tours across the globe, Draxx’s odyssey within the electronic dance music universe is on an exhilarating and boundless upclimb.

House

[Melodic Bass] Hidden Axis & Medyk – Matrix

Posted by Tyler Trew - October 6, 2023

In an ever-evolving soundscape, few tracks capture the essence of introspection as “Matrix” does. This isn’t just another song; it’s an anthem for those lost in the maze of their own thoughts. Echoing the cinematic realm of its namesake, the track delves deep into the psyche, painting the poignant journey of an individual navigating their personalized ‘Matrix’. It’s a salute to the overly sensitive, the daydreamers, and the overthinkers, wrapping them up with the comforting message: “You are not alone.”

Behind this sonic marvel stands two powerhouses. Julie Yeung, electrifying the Bay Area as Hidden Axis, transitioned from the analytical world of STEM, discovering her pulse in music. Her earlier rhythm, “Better Off Alone”, already showcased her flair, racking up over 264,000 streams. Soon, the Bay Area’s locals will experience her electrifying live sets at the Breakaway Festival – with even more content set to come from her down the line.

For Medyk, with a staggering 9 million streams and tracks featuring on top Spotify playlists, she’s more than just a voice; she’s a movement. Medyk’s music collaborations read like a who’s who of the industry—Slander, ARMNHMR, and Synymata, to name just a few.

Together, in “Matrix”, Hidden Axis and Medyk have fused their individual brilliance, giving listeners more than just beats – they’ve offered an emotional sanctuary like few other songs can.

Electronic

[Trance] Ceréna – Limitless

Posted by Tyler Trew - August 24, 2023

Toronto’s own Ceréna, following the raving success of her self-produced debut album resurrection and its standout tracks like the JUNO-nominated ‘see’, ‘hearts on fire,’ and ‘gender euphoria’, has returned with single, ‘Limitless.’ This dazzling new release stands as a beacon in the electro-pop universe, drawing from her journey steeped in authenticity, and the unique inspirations she garnered from queer club culture and the pioneering sounds of artists like the late SOPHIE.

From her early days, marking the music industry with her undeniable talent at the tender age of six, Ceréna has shown an undying quest for self-expression. This quest took a turn into the vibrant avenues of the Ballroom scene, laying the foundation for her distinct sonic fingerprint.

‘Limitless,’ produced by Jaymie Silk (French), the flagship single from her imminent EP ‘607’, is more than just a song. With its hypnotic arpeggio synths and EDM backbone, it becomes an experience, a dive into the boundless realm of self-discovery. Ceréna’s voice, draped in velvety tones, paints a dreamlike soundscape that perfectly complements the intoxicating production.

In Ceréna’s own words, “LIMITLESS is a call to embrace the forever changing nature of things, which include our humanity… By accepting the nature of change, we open up to the infinite possibilities that await us.”

With ‘Limitless’, Ceréna has captured something time-testing and inviting all in the same go: to unearth, embrace, and celebrate our true selves, unburdened by labels and free from boundaries. As she evolves, Ceréna’s commitment to authenticity remains unwavering, and the dance-pop scene is all the richer for it.

Indie-Dance/Nu-Disco

[House] Bleu Clair – Step Into It

Posted by Tyler Trew - January 28, 2023

Bleu Clair is coming off a big year in 2022. To kick off 2023, he’s dropped his solo single “Step Into It” that feels a little too appropriate for where the Indonesian talent is at in his career. Taking the success in stride, this hit continues to showcase why Bleu Clair is one of the hottest in house right now.

“Step Into It” blends some classic sounds with a fresh sentiment backed by Bleu Clair’s iconic production. It builds beautifully into a massively climactic drop with a sax solo that is just SO DAMN COOL. The unique approach to a song with such a distinct payoff makes for a nice change of pace from the usual while Bleu Clair proves once again he’s got the X factor.

[House] Rich Furniss – Out Of This World

Posted by Tyler Trew - January 26, 2023

Soundcloud

After a heavy year of coverage in the dojo, we’re not slowing down the support for Rich Furniss. The New York creator kicks off the new year with our favorite record of his to date. “Out Of This World” truly lives up to its name and we’re sure it will make its way into your playlist as soon as you hear it.

Rich has had a knack for catchy records, but there’s something particularly special about this one. The almost frenetic energy paired with the washed out melodic runs are just impeccable. We can’t get enough of it on our end and we hope you feel the same way about the next stepping stone in Rich Furniss’ evolving career, which recently saw him take the operation reigns over at the Quincy Boy imprint.

[House] San Pacho – OYE

Posted by Tyler Trew - January 20, 2023

Soundcloud

OYE! SAN PACHO RETURNS! The Croatian house magician is back with the new single “OYE” as well as his North American tour that has thirteen dates in total. You’ll be sure to hear the new song that pays homage to the classic N.O.R.E record “Oye Mi Canto” from 2006.

The techy treasure’s latin inspired sound is elevated with bubbly production and bustling percussion that is catchy enough all on its own. Never holding back, San Pacho adds his signature bells and whistles (metaphorically speaking) for one of his most energetic songs to date. It’s a fun one. Let it take over your party playlists and if you’re around one of his tour stops, don’t miss out!

[Drum & Bass] 4URA & Young Viridii – Yesterday

Posted by Tyler Trew - January 16, 2023

Soundcloud

The South Korean producer 4URA teamed up with the Kansas City creator Young Viridii for “Yesterday” released by No Copyright Sounds. The ever-so bright and uplifting record is just what you need to cure your Winter blues this time of the year for us in the dojo. If you’re in the heat of Summer down South, even better!

“Yesterday” is a vibrant boost of drum & bass energy that will come in handy for any and all of your playlists. With elements of pop and heavy on the synths, this easily accessible jam feels inspired by some classic records in both dance music and gaming giving it a timeless feel. 4URA and Young Viridii are a magnificent match together as two up and coming producers to keep your ears on.

Drum&Bass