Madrid-based producer, DJ GAZZI, reveals his stunning new EP ‘Tus Ojos’ (meaning ‘Your Eyes’), out on 7th February via Parisian label Ano Ano.

GAZZI, the musical alias of Pablo Jiménez, proudly hails from Linares, Jaén in the historical community of Andalusia near Spain. Saying that, his sound would make you think he was a regular at FWD night in London. Heavily influenced by the founders of that sound, the likes of Burial, Four Tet et al. His music blends post-dubstep, UK bass, deep house, and breakbeat. Now based in Madrid, GAZZI has performed at top venues like Nitsa and festivals such as Sonár and Primavera Sound, where in 2022 he performed his first ever Boiler Room set.

Each of the five tracks here evoke GAZZI’s distinctly floaty, gentle and melodic house and techno sound. Complete with breathy melancholic vocal phrases, bubbling raw synths and sharp, swinging drums, it’s an essential release for fans of Four Tet, Floating Points or Overmono.

If you’re not yet aware of the rising, rousing sound of GAZZI, the ‘Tus Ojos’ EP is a fine place to start. Be aware, though – this will not be the last you hear from this talented Andalusian artist.

We asked GAZZI to tell us about a few records that helped shape his sound.  Here’s how it went down!

Interview with GAZZI

Bjork – I Miss You

Björk with a powerhouse hip-hop beat, nothing more, nothing less.

Four Tet – 128 Harps

This track by Four Tet—the percussion, the rhythm, the minimalism of the vocals and the harp… simply one of the first tracks that got stuck in my head on repeat. Just brilliant.

Ouri / Mind Bath – Wild Mother

This song—the pop atmosphere, the vocals, the slow and sexy rhythm, the lyrics…
Probably one of the songs I’ve listened to the most in my life.

Burial – In McDonlads

Probably one of the songs that changed electronic music.
The dark atmosphere, the noise of seemingly urban, industrial sounds, the vocal chops, that iconic voice… wow.

Voice Actor – Uprojected2

This futuristic drill, with that Burial-like atmosphere, that subtle vocal…
I love it.

-GAZZI

Steve Perez, aka P-REZ, began his dj career in late 2000. With over 30 years of drumming experience, it didn’t take him long to learn the ropes, define his sound, and build a following in his hometown of Fresno, CA. Many locals remember his party, Frisky, which ran for 15 years where he played alongside some giants in the genre. He and his pal Rusty teamed up to form the production duo, Dos Banditos, and in 2007 had their first release on Fresno label, Le Poop Music.  P-REZ keeps himself busy in the studio more than the booth these days. His work can be heard on labels such as Bounce House Recordings, Blunted Funk, 4E&A Records, Household Digital, and Whiskey Pickle. In 2009, he took the reins of record label, Not So Fast Records, keeping a schedule of releases to keep the underground sound alive.

Off the back of his latest offering ‘Total Domination’ on Whiskey Pickle, we sat down with P-Rez to talk through a few of his favourite records that helped shape his sound.

The Sunburst Band – Garden Of Love (Joey Negro’s Club Mix) – Z Records
https://www.traxsource.com/track/7503245/garden-of-love-joey-negro-club-mix

The simplistic artwork on the record caught my eye in the store. That first listen was magical! I still don’t think I’ve heard a track that emotes this much happy emotion from the speakers. It’s a true testament to how the perfect synth sound can do so much from the back. If you’re hearing this song from the dancefloor and I happen to be in the booth, it must be a special night.

Halo Varga – Future! – Siesta Music
https://www.traxsource.com/track/8520951/future

I mean, this tune defined the late night West Coast sound. I knew I wanted to make records like this, for that late night crowd. The mix of hypnotic synths, tribal percussion, and a super dubby vocal sample was incredibly exciting to hear on the big systems. I recall nights when this tune was playing in the background at some party, somewhere. The way I felt. The way everyone in the room felt. Memories like that are easy to channel when making a trippy tune.

Doc Martin & Tony Hewitt – Music From My Soul – Wax Records

One of the very few records that has lived in the bag since the day I bought it. It gets a reaction from the dance floor every time it’s played. I’m always trying to make a track that feels the way this one does. I remember taking notice of the 303 pattern, and then going back into my record collection looking for all the other records with that sound. The start of the acid rabbit hole.

Freaked – Rhythm By Nature – Drop Music
https://www.traxsource.com/track/34767/rhythm-by-nature

This track was my introduction to Drop Music. Throughout these last 2 decades, it’s extremely evident in my DJ sets how much of an inspiration Drop Music, and their artists, have been to me. This level of funk and groove is second to none!

Phil Weeks – Hypnose – Robsoul
https://www.traxsource.com/track/153760/hypnose-original-mix

The party track. This tune commands the attention of everybody in the room when it’s played. It’s not just the groove, but this track has a, sort of, playfulness about it. It’s something I identified with quickly. But, man, I gotta say; the use of a 303 to provide an accent to an already killer groove, it’s no wonder why this would be in my all time top 10.

Rocket – People (Jeno’s Stormy Weather Mix) – Grayhound Recordings
https://www.traxsource.com/track/226880/people-jenos-stormy-weather-mix

Another West Coast staple. My love for the 303 grew more the first time I heard this, and even more than that when I got my hands on a copy of this record. This was, most definitely, the sound I was aiming for. Still is.

Roy Davis Jr. feat. Jordan – Take You There – Rouse Records

One of my favorites. This track is always a mind opening experience for me. When the 303 takes the lead, but still leaves room for a vocal and synths, that type of sound is wildly exciting to me.

Larry Fives – Dance Me Dance You (Inland Knights Remix) – Drop Music
https://www.traxsource.com/track/56117/inland-knights-remix

Oh boy, I’m not sure how I’m able to make a top 10 list and only have 1 Inland Knights track on it. These guys have been one of the biggest inspirations since the beginning. They always have the perfect combo of funk with all the bloops and bleeps. This is some of their best work and perfect if you really love to mix.

Peace Division – Club Therapy – NRK
https://www.traxsource.com/track/13770/club-therapy-flashback-club-therapy

Aside from the obvious, being the dope vocal that really describes what we’re all about; it’s also that infectious groove that stays consistent throughout the track. It’s what I’m always trying to achieve. Finding that groove that feels so good, you can let it marinate a while.

Vanessa Daou – Once In A While (Roberto Rodriguez Every Now And Then Dub) – KID Recordings
https://www.traxsource.com/track/1024122/once-in-a-while-roberto-rodriguez-every-now-and-then-dub

Ah yes.. This absolute gem of a track. The perfect closer to an epic night. When I first heard this, I couldn’t get enough of that ostinato that is so consistent and driving in the background. It really moves the track along. One of these days, I hope to put out a super sexy tune like this, that DJs can look to as their go-to, to close out the night.

– P-REZ

Cut-Line Records proudly unveils its inaugural release, featuring a collection of euphoric, minimal, and
breaky tracks that resonate deeply within the realm of house music. Launched by lifelong mates and
production partners Maják and Diego Knows, this label aims to capture the essence of dancefloor
energy while pushing creative boundaries across an endless soundscape of alien vibes.

At the heart of this release lies the highly anticipated “Warning Bells” from Digital Pimps, which opens
the B-side. This classic ’90s break track, once long lost and now reborn, roars back to life thanks to a
brilliant remaster that is sure to evoke nostalgia. Collaborating with the original artist, New York local
Fonseca 72, we’ve breathed new life into this beloved classic, ensuring it grooves on vinyl for a whole
new generation of listeners.

Interview with Digital Pimps

Can you take us back to the moment when “Warning Bells” first came to life? What was the creative spark that ignited its inception?

“Warning Bells” was part of a four-song EP I was working on at the time with Scott Sapia, Jason Perez, and a vocalist named Brie. I wanted to create a darker, dancefloor-friendly track that would resonate within the breakbeat scene we were a part of in Tampa. The song was heavily influenced by Florida breakbeat music. As for the vocals, I manipulated my voice using a Boss VT-1 Voice Transformer, which gave them a unique pitch-shifted quality.

In what ways did the creation and release of “Warning Bells” alter your personal and professional trajectory as an artist?

At the time, not much changed, to be honest. We gained some recognition locally and started playing bigger shows and raves. However, one significant outcome was that it caught the attention of a management company in New York City. A few years later, I ended up signing with them and moving to New York, which eventually opened many doors for me in the music industry.

When did you first notice that “Warning Bells” was gaining popularity online? Was there a specific moment or feedback that took you by surprise?

In 2023, I received a message on Facebook from someone asking if I was the artist behind the track. They shared a YouTube link to the Proud Mistress Channel, and to my surprise, the song had amassed over 30,000 plays, along with a ton of positive comments. It was incredible to see people praising a track I made 21 years ago! The whole experience was both surprising and validating—it felt as though I had created something ahead of its time.

What influences, be they musical, cultural, or personal, informed the sound and message behind “Warning Bells”?

Honestly, I just wanted to introduce our work in a cool, sci-fi-inspired way. That’s why I used robotic vocals—it was a way of creating something unique and futuristic.

What role did collaboration play in the creation of “Warning Bells”?
Did any unexpected partnerships shape the track’s development?

At the time, Scott Sapia and Jason Perez were part of the creative crew. To be honest, I don’t remember exactly how much they contributed to “Warning Bells” specifically. However, the entire EP was a collaborative effort in one way or another.

How has your sound evolved since “Warning Bells”? Are there any new influences or styles you’re experimenting with in your recent work?

It’s been 21 years since “Warning Bells” came out, so my sound has evolved quite a bit. Over the years, I’ve released more than 40 songs and remixes across various genres, including house music, pop, rock, and even breakbeat. In 2019, I released a breakbeat record “Dime Dropper” with Huda Hudia, Si-Dog, & Sweet Charlie, that won “Best Breakbeat Record of the Year” at the Breakbeat Awards in Spain. Nowadays, I’m also focused on developing other artists in a variety of genres.

Looking back, what do you hope is the enduring legacy of “Warning Bells”? How would you like to be remembered in the annals of music history?

For me, the legacy is that I’ve continued making music throughout my life. So many people I knew back then no longer have the opportunity to work professionally in the music industry. It’s a tough journey, and I’m grateful to still be relevant and active. I hope my legacy reflects my perseverance and passion for creating music.

Can you describe your creative process when producing music? What rituals or environments help you unlock your best ideas?

I don’t have any specific rituals, as I try to approach each project differently. Over the years, I’ve developed a strong work ethic and workflow that allows me to create music in an honest and organic way. I don’t chase trends; instead, I focus on creating what feels right for the moment.  This approach is not just for my own music, but also for the artists I work with.

If you had the opportunity to turn any inanimate object into a musical instrument, what would it be and why?

Maybe a pen? If I could just write down my thoughts and immediately hear the music come to life—that would be amazing! But then again, maybe that’s what AI is beginning to do already.

Lastly, what can your fans look forward to in the future? Are there any projects or themes you’re excited to explore next?

There’s definitely a lot more music coming. I’ve been developing an artist for almost two years now, and you’ll finally get to hear her music and see her perform live in 2025. The project is called They Call Her Heaven and it blends all the genres I’ve worked in over the years. It’s an exciting fusion of electronic, pop, and rock, fronted by an incredibly talented singer with a powerful voice. I’m thrilled to share this project with the world!

-Digital Pimps

After releasing Enkiama earlier in the year through his own Dynamite Disco Club, India’s Disco Dictator, Stalvart John, returns to Wind Horse Records with Nights of Sahra, and brings forth fresh and infectious energy through a funky bassline that is layered with a melodic arrangement, which is both smooth and uplifting. 

Off the back of his latest funky release, Stalwart talks us through some records that helped shape his sound that you hear today…

Cerrone – Cerrone’s Paradise (Joey Negro’s Full Club Mix) 

This track is one of my all-time favorite disco house remixes. It’s hard to think of a better way to capture the sound I love to play than this. Dave Lee completely elevates Cerrone’s iconic original, turning it into a dancefloor masterpiece. Not a single moment in this track feels dull or repetitive—it’s an epic journey from start to finish. It was listening to this that made me truly realize the power of musicality in dance music.

Jasper Street Co. – Paradise (Danny Krivit Edit)

This track is something I keep coming back to, time and time again, to uplift my soul. A modern classic from Jasper Street Co., with Danny Krivit bringing his deep dancefloor expertise to the mix. He masterfully preserves the soulful power of the gospel vocals while maintaining that dancefloor energy. It’s a beautiful fusion that never fails to move me.

Oden & Fatzo x Poppy Baskcomb – Tell Me What You Want (Extended Mix)

I’ve been in love with Oden & Fatzo ever since Lady Love dropped. These guys are taking the sound I adore and pushing it into a new era—especially with this track. It really resonated with me and made me embrace the idea that ‘simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.’ They’ve mastered the art of keeping it clean yet incredibly impactful.

Fatboy Slim – Praise You (Purple Disco Machine Extended Remix) 

A true nu-disco classic remix. Purple Disco Machine is an artist who’s been instrumental in bringing the nu-disco sound to a wider audience, and his music has all the right ingredients to become timeless. This track, in particular, inspired me to craft more interesting basslines with a sense of simplicity. I love it because, despite its simplicity, it keeps the groove alive and never loses its energy.

Letta Mbulu – Down By The River

I first discovered South African singer Letta Mbulu through Normalizo, and from there, I fell in love with this absolute gem. It’s an iconic downtempo disco track, and her rich, choral vocals transport me to a headspace that fuels my inspiration. This is one of the most unique and exotic disco jams you’ll ever hear—pure gold.

Minnie Riperton – Les Fleurs

While this track didn’t directly influence my sound, it has been a crucial part of my personal growth and the journey I’m on right now. Every time I listen to it, I’m reminded that it’s okay to start over. I play it daily, often ending my morning walks with it. The lyrics are so powerful—if they don’t inspire every human being, I’m not sure what will. 

                     “Inside every man, lives the seed of a flower

                          If he looks within, he finds beauty and power

                          Ring all the bells, sing and tell the people

                          Everywhere that the flower has come

                          Light up the sky with your prayers of gladness

                          And rejoice for the darkness is gone

                          Throw off your fears let your heart beat freely

                          At the sign that a new time is born”

Stream ‘Nights of Sahra’ here

Turn it up & enjoy!

–DuBeats

Back with another Hometown Heroes mix, this time coming from all the way over in Copenhagen courtesy of Jazzed Irregularity!

Jazzed Irregularity specializes in deep house, house, and soulful house music.  The Copenhagen’s unique landscapes inspire creativity, with walks along the harbor, canals, and bike rides offering the ideal setting for finding new tracks. A long-time enthusiast of deep house, the journey began with discovering Dogglounge Radio, which influenced the artist’s sound.

Turn it up and enjoy this lovely medley of smooth, lush deep grooves.

DOWNLOAD

MORE HOMETOWN HEROES

Turn it up & enjoy!

–DuBeats

The Disco Express is about to release a Best of 2024 EP which is packed full of soulful goodness. We got a chance to talk to the label boss man Tom Lilly about the label beginnings, what it’s like running the growing imprint, and what’s cooking in 2025 for The Disco Express.

Interview with Bustin’ Loose

We are bigs fans of The Disco Express here. Tell us a little the label.

Thanks so much! and thanks for having me. The Disco Express started as a monthly East London loft party in 2017. We hosted some phenomenal parties at Shoreditch Platform, inviting guests like: Dave Lee, Crazy P, Glenn Underground, Étienne de Crécy, Eli Escobar, Toy Tonics, Jacques Renault, Felix Dickinson, Bellaire and lots more.

When clubs closed in 2020, I decided to transform TDE into a record label. Four years later, we’re up to 80 releases and versatile collective based across the world..

Benny (Crystal Touch) hosts the parties in Amsterdam, Roland Cespedes in NYC, Monsieur Van Pratt in Mexico City, Magnolia in Paris, Matteo (Sparkling Attitude) in Italy and most recently Ron (Old As Funk) in São Paulo, Brazil. Closer to home, myself and Tatiana organise the events in London and Berlin.

Our ethos is to bring positive, uplifting and original music to 21st century dance floors. We endeavour to provide a platform for burgeoning talent, as well being a hotspot for household names. The Disco Express parties take place far and wide, with established long-term residencies in Paris, Berlin, London, New York City and Mexico City.

What is your experience of running a label prior to TDE?

The Disco Express is my first shot at running a record label. I’m lucky enough to be part of a network of supportive friends and family who filled me with the confidence to do what I’m doing.

I’ve been running nights for ten years, so I have party planning experience. Releases on labels like Toy Tonics, the Basement and Whiskey Disco gave me the basic understanding of how the signing process works from an artist perspective.

At the beginning the main challenge was navigating where to start and how to do it. You know, finding a distributor, the artists, when to release, promotion strategy and so on. Luckily I’m a graphic designer so I could knock out artwork pretty speedily. Once I got into the swing of things with a routine it all became very clear and natural. Having a plan, schedule and consistency is key!

You are an active party planner. Tell us a little about your party and its ethos.

For a long time it’s been a goal of mine to throw a party every weekend worldwide. The idea was to establish residencies in multiple cities, sharing our vibe and consistently growing our global community. It was an idea that stemmed from spending too much time watching basketball in lockdown, particularly Michael Jordan’s ‘The Last Dance’ documentary and the notion of franchising. It’s fairly ambitious I have to say!

At this moment of writing, we have 5 solid residencies set up across London, Paris, Berlin, NY, Mexico City and are looking to facilitate even more.

In a time of conflict, war and tempestuous aggression we think it’s important to share positivity through music. Our party and ethos is heavily inspired by the hedonistic jaunts of the 70’s New York club scene. Inclusivity, community, escapism and originality. This is the vibe we aim to create. For a few hours every weekend people can get down to the uplifting sounds of The Disco Express!

Is Disco alive you think, as much as it always has been?

Disco never died

Who are you heroes in Disco past and present?

If we’re just talking disco music I’d have to say: Willie Hutch, David Mancuso, Masayoshi Takanaka, Nile Rodgers, Prince, KC & The Sunshine Band, Kiki Gyan, Teddy Pendergrass, Sylvester and Donna Summer.

My musical influences stretch further and would love to mention: Nina Simone, Fela Kuti, Basement Jaxx, Daft Punk, Nightmares On Wax, Confidence Man, Jay Electronica, Crazy P and Joe Claussell.

What are the essential ingredients that get a release signed to your label?

The music has to have feeling and soul. Nothing too computerised or robotic. If it’s made with live instruments that’s great! We love authenticity and collaborating with singers and musicians. In a looming world of AI, here at TDE we concentrate on the analogue and the imperfect. It’s what makes us human. Part of our ethos is to harness the uplifting vibe and energy of classic 70’s disco music, 90’s house and reinvent it for 21st century dance floors. Bands from The Disco Express like Golden Gate, Magnolia, Rayowa and The Wild Violets do this brilliantly.

I don’t care about the amount of followers you have, if the music is good that’s what matters. It’s all about originality.

This new release is a window to your output for 2024. Talk us through a couple of highlights for you and the label this year?

Of course, our Best of 2024 compilation is a true testament to the talent and diversity of The Disco Express. We purposefully decided to make it eclectic so it showcases the wide breadth of of the label. It’s got a bit of everything.. House, Italo, Nu-Disco, Jackin’ and Soul.

This year there’s been so many good moments, its hard to say! For me though, to see The Disco Express grow across the world has been pretty amazing. In 2024, our events have taken place for the first time in: Rome, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Aberdeen, Cuenca, Mexico City, Montréal and Manila. Performing to a sold out Alcazar in Rome was a choice favourite.

Playing at Boogietown Festival in front of 2000 people was especially fun. Goes without saying too, playing at Glastonbury for the second consecutive year was pretty cool.. and our 75th Release special featuring four legends of disco (John Morales, The Reflex, Hot Toddy, Dr Packer) was pretty dope.

How does The Disco Express plan to take the label forward in 2025?

We’re firing up our engines and are taking TDE to new heights in 2025! Keeping to our schedule of a party-a-weekend is ideal. Adding more residencies to our global franchise too. It will also be our 100th release in 2025 so we have some mega plans for that! In March, we celebrate our 8th Birthday with a month long series of crazy parties! Its safe to say this train ain’t stopping anytime soon..

-Bustin’ Loose

Turn it up & enjoy!

Keeping the groove train rolling with our 121st episode of the LoveBath brought to us by LYMA.

“Old love jams and new favorites for a soapy Lovebath, also sneaked some unreleased demo’s and upcoming releases in there.” -LYMA

Turn it up & enjoy!

–DuBeats

Artist: Maarten Goetheer
Title: Romantic Warrior
Label: NuNorthern Soul
Release Date: 2024-11-29

Artist: Lavan
Title: Daamn
Label: Ascension on Wax
Release Date: 2024-11-29

Artist: Art Of Tones
Title: The Magic Count
Label: The Disco Express
Release Date: 2024-11-29