Osey & Matt Drake Present : The Sickness

Our 26th outing is brought to you by Auckland based maestro COOPER KHAN (AKA Cooper May)

Coopers passion for music runs in through the roots of his family tree.
The passion his father had for jazz, blues and Rock n Roll has grown through this branch and formed an uber talented house and techno Dj.

An underage Cooper forced his way into the electronic world at a tender age of 14. Using fake IDS to gain entry into Brightons dark Drum n Bass underworld he formed his affair with snares and kick drums and the sense of community, family and belonging was what he was always looking for but didn't know.

The pull to mix himself came and like all budding DJS the bedroom and mismatched beats slowly formed into tapestry's of dance and the booth was calling..

Taking inspiration from the likes of Jeff Mills...Andy C, Carl Cox and Locally Logan baker, Greg Churchill, FIONA.. any Dj that plays a journey and not todays hot take... His sound has formed that of an emotional rollercoaster  Where Depth sit easily next to crescendos at every corner. 

Now a regular on the Auckland scene, crowd pleasing sets at Shipwrecked, Silent Studios, Fitzroy lounge and a stomping set at W:ARE has made him a lineup favoroute.

When asked how he approached this mix... "I just wanted to showcase the style(s) of music I play and try some long blends and paint the most realistic picture of a later-night set… When I play out I don’t plan what I’m going to play, but recording at home has always been a difficulty for me! So I have to plan it out and think about what I wanted to convey in a more general sense, as opposed to whats working for the dance floor that night…"

We would say you have no problem laying down a mix and LO-FI is sure you will agree..

Welcome to the LO-FI family Cooper

Enjoy...

COOPER KHAN. LO-FI Presents EXPLORATIONS 26

We are arriving at Explorations number 27 and our conductor for this trip will be the spellbinding FACETTES (AKA Sofiane Tib). 
@facettesmusic
https://www.instagram.com/facettesmusic/
https://www.facebook.com/facettesmusic/

Sofiane has loved to dance since a young age. It’s this body language that led him to electronic music. 

A house filled with, Madonna, Depeche Mode, Pink Floyd, Eurythmics, resulted in a love of synthesizers. The dreamy emotive world that these machines created on seminal music were being soaked up by a young boy destined for big things. 
Living in France on the doorstep of a thriving rave scene, 15-year-old Sofiane was hearing the sound of the underground echoing across Europe. Listening to countless radio shows and mixes resulted in him trying to mix tunes on a cheap turntable and a cd player with no pitch control. His friends and peers on their own journey were discovering sample culture and beat making. 
Sofiane was listening, taking notes, and starting on his quest to become a DJ. 
Taking inspiration from the likes of James Murphy (LCD Sound System), Yasmine Hamdan, Satori, Dixon, Raw Main, Sainte Vie, Squire, Behrouz, Ali Farahani, Bedouin, WhomadeWho, Kollektiv Turmstrasse, Jonas Rathsman. and influenced by Arabic, Spanish and African music. Sofiane weaves these tapestries into his sets and productions creating a heart-swelling, hip-swinging soundtrack to pulsing dancefloors. 
The Facettes experience is constantly pushing boundaries, incorporating live instrumentation into his productions and live sets. A percussionist, Keyboardist, or a Cielo player is not an unusual site while Sofiane lays down his melodic groove on the turntables. 
In his own words. I am searching for goosebumps! If I don’t get them while I am creating a playlist, there is no point in playing! I listen to a lot of music, new and old releases, mixes, labels, and upcoming artists. I am looking for obscure tracks that bring spirituality and emotion to envelope the audience on the dancefloor. I am after music that not many DJs play, and being the first one to share is really important for me to keep it interesting. I am into the challenge of playing melodic music that has several layers at any time of the night. I think we don’t have enough events where we can listen to music that transports you and give you emotion! During my set. I try to have a certain progression, I create waves with tension and release to surprise the audience, I am not only using middle eastern atmospheres, but I also build my set with dark techno, hypnotic vocals, and afro elements to create a complex mix with multiple layers. 
I have been in the scene for a while, so I am after delivering the best mix that I can for each performance. One of my close friends said to me, you are sometimes competing with yourself! I have to create a journey that people can remember! I feel so much pressure each time as I have to do as well or better than the last time with a new original set. It’s hard work but if you have the right sensibility and artistic skills, you can connect and transport the audience with music that they have never heard before.

For LO-FI I wanted to record a different mix compared to what I play at a festival, it’s a set that you can listen to any time of the day! It offers lots of messages with a melancholic atmosphere that reflects what some of the Middle Eastern countries have gone through. There is lots of emotion and sadness with ethereal music from Portugal, Spain, Algeria, Greece, Turkey, Armenia, Ukraine, Israel, and more. 

Here at LO-FI, we agree, the results are exceptional. This has been one we have been looking forward to sharing with you and it is a pleasure to welcome FACETTES to the LO-FI family.

Explorations 27

FACETTES. LO-FI Presents Explorations 27

We have been waiting with anticipation for this one for quite a while.With great pleasure Explorations 28 is delivered by the one and only FERKSTA.
FERKSTA (John Paul Moss) is a legend on the NZ music scene. His love for all things doof and his constant contributions to the music scene arte invaluable and a shining light for all to follow.
Finding electronica through the likes of non techno artists such as YELLO and JEAN MICHELLE JARRE an ear for melody and drama was obviously formed.Part of the early UK rave scene, House, techno and jungle were constants in his ears.However it was regular jaunts to Auckland Institution THE BOX that really sparked fireworks.
Throwing his first rave in NOV 1991 (Arguably Aotearoas first) it has been a life filled with making people come together, dance and enjoy what is good in life.
FERKSTA behind the decks is a bundle of energy and joy. His sound is genre defying. A walk between prog, psy and techno that sits very comfortably in big rooms and stages.
This mix is a stellar drive through his crate. This is not for the faint hearted.
When asked what is good in life his answer..
Everything. Even the bad is good when viewed as such… eventually. 
I love everything. 
I love you!
Thanks for this opportunity my friends. I truly appreciate it.
Shine on!

You too brother.!!
Enjoy

FERKSTA. LO-FI Presents EXPLORATIONS 28

Explorations 29 has been delivered by the vivacious BECKY.

Becky (Becky Roberts) is a pure product of the Auckland House and Techno scene. Only taking up the challenge of learning to mix 2.5 years ago, her unquenchable thirst for good music and gigs has enabled her to mature her sound and skills quickly.

Loving the community sided gigs such as Kiwiburn, the simplicity of warehouse raves and the kookiness of boutique festivals, this is where she  has learnt to ride her bike, ditch it and now walk the walk with the best Aotearoa has to offer.

Becky has listened, looked and learnt from our scenes best... in her own words..

..

Most people’s influences come from big international DJ’s, but for me it’s the locals and friends that surround me. So many of my core crew are incredible DJ’s. Like my Burnout boys, Ray and Darren. When I first moved to New Zealand, Simon Flower was the first DJ I discovered here and loved dancing to so much! Obviously my bestie, Heylady, is a huge mentor and a musical idol to me. Musically Craig James is just 100% my style! I remember the first time hearing him play at Silent Studios and I had the best stomp! Production wise, Sanoi is my number 1. I don’t think his talent will ever cease to amaze me! And Matt and Osey, not only have you influenced me but you are 2 of the people who have believed in me and supported me the most.

I have only ever recorded live sets so this is my first studio mix I’ve done. There was definitely a lot more thought and planning that went into this.

My sound depends when and where I’m playing, but I have my 2 main sounds I love to play which is either beautiful melodic sound, often with a lot of lyrics. Or my other end; sexy, grunty and stompy techno! That’s my muse! 

Career defining sets at AUM festival and Shipwrecked, as well as a regular at all things warehousey in Auckland, has made her must see on any lineup.
 
Becky also loves to get involved and pull the strings. Half of In Kahoots with CJ Funkowfield and an integral part of LO-FI, we have to mention her passion and generosity doesn't stop at house and techno. She also tirelessly runs Kia Kaha Box which is a charity for women in need.

We here at LO-FI have been waiting and waiting for this to come across our desk. We put heart and character above all else and she has this by the truckload. 

Miss Roberts has come on board with LO-FI and fast made herself irreplaceable and a pleasure to work with and it brings us huge joy to watch her ability and career progress... Fast!!

Thank you Becky! You are already a part of the LO-FI family so take off your shoes and don’t make a mess...

Enjoy people.

BECKY: LO-FI Presents EXPLORATIONS 29

The boys describing how they approached this mix..

Darren - We wanted to make something that showcased both of our individual styles without it being too laid back, or too full on. We were in lockdown when we made it so had plenty of time to get the music just right to tell our story. We did an hour each so this is more of a side by side mix than a back to back!

Ray- We wanted to make a mix that harnessed both are styles in a complimentary way, so by starting out deep and slowing building through the mix, we were able to achieve this. Being in lockdown when we made the mix, we did an hour each and combined the two together. All things considered, we were pretty happy with how it turned out. Hope you enjoy.

Rayza & Darren Bailey. LO-FI Presents EXPLORATIONS 33

Bringing us our next EXPLORATIONS we have Melbourne residing force of Nature CHELSEA BROWN.

Miss Brown was classically trained from a young age and while her fingers were learning the classical stuff her ears were rocking out to rock royalty SHIHAD and NIRVANA however it was a scorching gig from our own SALMONELLA DUB that sent her cartwheeling into the electronic world.

Travels and international experiences have further shaped this appreciation.
LAB parties in Melbourne, trips to Berlin and Australia's penchant for quality festivals further pushed her towards her destiny on the decks.

Running THE theme camp/doof destination BEAN BAG BABYLON has resulted in a fun, rewarding and rich education in electronica with constant talent on the revolving line up in BEAN BAG BABYLON.
Their RAINBOW SERPANT FESTIVAL closing sets are a thing of legend and have often hosted the worlds best for this occasion.

Taking inspiration from producers such as COSS. BEN BOHMER. ARATUNI and IORIE and labels such as KATTERMUKKE, ANUNJADEEP and BEAT N PATH. Her sound is an analogue bubbling warmth that is engaging and thoughtful.

This mix was recorded in a rare gap In Melbournes seemingly never ending lockdowns in a secluded picturesque landscape with the warm late afternoon sun shining down and this mix reflects just that.

Thank you Chelsea and welcome to LO-FI.

Enjoy people

Easter at the River

CHELSEA BROWN. LO-FI Presents EXPLORATIONS 30

Growing up in Sweden a young Pino was exposed to a broad range of music from her family. Older siblings immersed in the world of rock, grunge and soul fuelled a melting pot of sound and sparked an obsession. Discovering Prodigy, Chemical Brothers and Fat Boy Slim as a teen and then later the depths of house and techno while working in night clubs in Stockholm, Pino was caught and adamant she needed to know more.

Moving to New Zealand in 2008 and falling in with friends who DJ, Pino found herself avidly watching how they play. Determined to learn, she was given opportunities to play at house parties and after hours events. Honing these skills on a controller at home and with the help of her musically minded friends, she began taking on gigs, and soon she was being asked to play more and more.

Living between the worlds of the Golden Bay festival realm during summer and the ski fields of Wanaka and Queenstown in the winter, Pino’s love for beautiful, wild vistas and adventure saw her snowboarding in the winter, and hiking and dancing during summer. Inspiration from these incredible places trickled through into the creative domain, inspiring mixes and sets played across 3 decks. 

Her passion and drive for all things house and techno ensures each and every set or mix is taken very seriously. She spends hours putting together rolling techno baselines with indie riffs, house high hats or a deep, soulful a’capella; all working for the time and placement of her set, all with gratitude for it all. 

With inspiration taken from some of the biggest names in the world through to some of the coolest NZ locals, a Pino set is diverse, fun, mixed impeccably and filled with cleverly layered sound. Always striving to be better and learn more, she is constantly honing her sound and ability, and we are very honoured to have her put together an Explorations mix for LO-FI.

PINO. LO-FI Presents Explorations 34

Eichenbaum is a Waiheke based producer, DJ and promoter. Delving deep into melody and groove, the progressive sound is entrenched in him and has ended up making him a rather renowned name. With mixes out on the likes of Frisky Radio and multiple releases on labels across the globe, Eichenbaum joins LO-FI with an Explorations mix.

Much like many musical acts, Eichenbaum was fed on a steady diet of music that his older brother brought home. His discovery of electronica came later and more slowly thanks to the likes of Daft Punk and Chemical Brothers. Heavily influenced by progressive jazz and progressive rock, it seems natural he would find his niche in progressive and melodic house. 

In 2013 a young Eichenbaum decided he wanted to learn how to mix. Taking himself off to a well known school in Buenos Aries, he gained the skills required to begin his journey as a musician. Loving the long, smooth mix, he is a fan of playing 4 hour plus sets where he can settle into and ride the ebbs and flows of sound.

Discovering connection through music, and having moved to Waiheke, he embarked on production. Now with releases supported by Guy J, Solomon, Joris Voorn and Adriatique and the mighty Sasha, Eichenbaum is finding that music can be a success even when you are in the antipodes. The formation of a production company with good friend Gustavo Guzman, Lift Me High, is rounding out the musical trifecta in his life and uniting even more electronic music lovers.

One thing is clear, Eichenbaum has developed a solid name for himself in the underground New Zealand scene and has absolutely no desire to slow up. With multiple releases due out this year, he’s a freight train that is running hot.

EICHENBAUM. LO-FI Presents Explorations 35

Bella is a Brazilian born music lover living in Aotearoa’s Tamaki Makaurau. She began teaching herself to play during the first lockdown in 2020, but this wasn’t the beginning of her musical journey. 

Discovering electronica via radio stations as a kid, Bella and her sister would make mix tapes and play them at house parties. By 15 she was sneaking into clubs in Sao Paulo with a fake ID and a desire to dance to the music she loved.

Making New Zealand her home in 2013, Bella has spent time on many local floors losing herself in the music. Already having a big music collection and connections with DJs and promoters, the idea of DJing always interested Bella so it was a natural step for her when she finally decided to start learning. It wasn’t long till she was posting her sets online and getting herself noticed.

Laurent Garnier and Chemical Brothers were huge influences, along with the likes of Tim Green, Ben Bohmer and Sébastian Leger. Lush grooves peppered with ethnic and organic elements and uplifting sounds are her jam, for Bella, her dance floor is a place to let the worries of the world melt away and just be present in the moment, and in the sound.

A known face who props the local scene, last year saw her play her first DJ set and in her own words, she is living her dream.

LO-FI are excited to present the latest in our Exploration series, the up and coming Bella.

Bella. LO-FI presents Explorations 36

Grassmouth wears a multifaceted musical hat. The love of music runs through his family and it definitely did not miss him. Growing up he was exposed to the likes of Sam Cooke and Miles Davis from a very young age, De La Soul was listened to at all hours and the rhythms of reggae and dub pumped through his veins. His great grandparents performed music live to air, his grandfather was a radio host on New Zealand’s first radio station, Radio Dunedin, his uncle tried numerous times to put together a family band because that many of them played instruments and Grassmouth himself plays the guitar, sings, DJs and produces his own music.

With all this going on in the background, it’s no wonder he has ended ups doing what he does. A radio host himself on Base FM, Grassmouth hosts the In The Neighbourhood breakfast show which showcases New Zealand music. Covering an extremely broad range of music, he interviews artists and introduces music to the masses. He also runs a mentoring programme which acquaints young people with the ins and outs of radio broadcasting as well as editing and composing original songs.

And we haven’t even touched on his DJing yet.

Grassmouth’s roots are firmly trenched in hip hop reggae and soul. Time spent in the concrete jungle and swirling fusion of sound that is Berlin introduced him to the slower tempo four-four. Dual time spent in Vanuatu lapping up the lackadaisical harmonies of beach-front bungalows, he found inspiration in ethnic, world music, afrobeat and more. Grassmouth effortlessly fuses all this and more into deep, tempered, rhythmic soundscapes that he refers to as “shaman-house”. 

LO-FI are proud to bring you Grassmouth’s Exploration mix, turn it up and zone out to this melting pot of sound from all four corners of the globe.

Grassmouth: LO-FI Presents Explorations 38

Boznich is not just another English import. Arriving in NZ 3 years ago, he has ingratiated himself in the Auckland and Raglan house and techno scenes thanks to his lively and kind nature, and passion for quality sound. It just so happens, he’s also a pretty good DJ as well. 

Discovering house and techno was a game changer for Boznich. A trip to California when he was young and the introduction to a set of CDJs and a mixer had him enthralled, but it was Tale of Us and Ben Klock a few weeks later in Bristol that nailed it home for him.

He’s since run nights and graced the decks at some of London’s biggest and most renowned venues, XOXO LDN and Ministry of Sound among them. He’s played at Amsterdam’s ADE and is now bringing his sound to events and festivals across NZ. And we are glad to have him.

This summer sees him playing stages at some of NZ’s biggest festivals alongside some our our most recognised names, he’ll even be playing some of his own tunes that he’s been in the studio honing.

Expect Boznich’s signature groove and melody in this almost 2 hour rolling mix, one he played off the cuff with inspiration from days and nights spent on LO-FI dance floors.  

We are honoured to present to you LO-FI Explorations 36: Boznich.

BOZNICH. LO-FI Presents EXPLORATIONS 36

Here we reach the milestone that is 40 and to bring it home we have rising star BEN PARKES

When a young Ben Parkes first discovered the electro sounds of Justice, Fisher Spooner and The Presets, he didn’t think it would lead him to where he is now. Resident at QT Hotel and spinning all over Auckland, Ben has built a reputation for effortlessly crossing genre. He was honoured to open up for KLP and Franky Wah… his schedule is getting busier and busier. 


Although a self-proclaimed techno lover, he’s just as comfortable playing house and disco and anything in between. He cites Auckland’s Dylan C as a big influence: “The way the man mixes genres together that you would never dream of playing in front of a large crowd always blew my mind.” He also follows the lead of global titans of the scene, Maceo Plex and Hot Since 82. 


On this fine mix for LO-FI, we get to hear Bens interpretation of the LO-FI Sound..and what a mix it is. Upfront dance floor friendly cuts that will please ears and hips alike.

Welcome to the LO-FI Fam Ben

BEN PARKES. LO-FI Presents Explorations 40

I Grew up between classic music, rock and roll, and jazz.
We were not necessarily a musial family but definitely a lot of music influence around. Lots of friends of the family that will often be around where musicians so lots of poetry, guitars and artists coming and going around the house, this has let my attention run that way since early times. 
My sister was a contemporary dancer. And I was a ballerina myself from my 10’s to 18 years old.I was really committed to it on a full-time basis. But I hurt my leg and eventually had to stop. 
The frustration and free time led me to start playing instruments, did a bit of run around with piano, drums and at the end stuck to the bass guitar. Silver linings....
I Started putting on jazz and rock and roll gigs very young (teens) , but I was way too shy to perform so I would only organise. This is all part of the path that led me to this..

I started playing (djing) because I was curious about it. And as I started doing it felt natural. It’s been a fun road. And I love everything about it. Probably ready for a bit of a challenge up…
I'm on the wonder road.

Big electronic influences have been…Mira Kater, Christopher Schwarzwalder,  Arutani,
Be Svendsen, Ninze, Lee Jones, Just Emma, HVOB Holen Coin, Andre Polar Karela Dust David Rausch, Sanoi,Out of Sorts
Mellowtac, among a few others. 
The friends that I made along the journey and memories shared have been everything really. And being able to support others as I can along the way. 
Splore 2023, the second set I played, at @Lucky Star stage… that was on fire!
Shipwrecked Music & Arts Festival 2023
Slow Heart April 2021
Beat and Path Raglan edition 2019
Creation of Silk Collective @ AOTEAROA 


A friend described my sound once as “Sexual friction underline” haha, I will add something like… soft and deep sounds. Sexy and playful.
Slow tech more than downtempo I will say.

Someone else also said..."She comes in slow like a sultry steam train, building it up to the kinds of rhythms that hit you deep and hard"

I will mix them up to get Me.


Well, as always, the mix is a love story, listen and try to follow.

From my Slow Heart to your ears…

Aleja.  LO-FI Presents EXPLORATIONS 41

This recording is from the closing set of The High Frequency podcast’s first party in Auckland held at Ink Bar earlier this year.

The dominant vibe of the night was minimal but I was excited to be playing at a time and a place that would lend itself to a heavier sound than I usually get to play and so headed in a heftier direction until one of the dancers up front asked for “more groove!”. 

I’m always happy to fulfil a reasonable request when I can and so things took a turn towards soulful house which there was good energy in the room for. As 4am closing beckoned the Kelbin remix of Cloudy by Daphni (aka Caribou) seemed like a beautifully melodic way to conclude the evening and usher everyone out into the chaos of Karangahape Road’s Saturday night coming to its (licensed) end.

Tina Mairi-LO-FI Presents IN-SESSION

In his own words.

"I guess could say the mix is a collection  of music I feel I lesser known to indulge in by the general public, but it's a collection of music that I really enjoy, it's the music I aspire to when jumping into the studio and when I'm not making stronger techno beats."

Cam Harris. LO-FI Presents EXPLORATIONS 42

Just in time for November season is our next Explorations from Auckland based maestro Richard Parker.Richards early years were spent equally rocking out with greasy hair, denim jacket and acne to classic band such as black sabbath and bad acne, maturing into britpop sounds and bands like Mancunian legends the Stone roses.While the pop sounds of the uk in the early 90s morphed into Rave sounds of 2 unlimited, this didnt make much impression on the young Richard.It was begrudgingly being dragged along to Brightons Zap club that sent home down the electronic footpath, mixtapes became his education and Zap became a second home, and the sounds of early Trance and Techno became his soundtrack.
Soon enough the thirst for mixtapes wasn't enough, and a mission to make his own soon formed, and the appeal of vinyl's cool factor made Turntables his medium.
The heady heights of bedroom raves soon weren't enough and gigs were needed.A resident  for Houseworks at La Tropicale taught him what's needed to become a master of his craft and these skills have carried him forward to today.
Recently Richard has poured his heart and soul into The Redlining Podcast. In his own words..."I’ve been blown away by the resilience our scene has shown in the wake of the pandemic and now the cost of living crisis. I created my Redlining brand to document how the scene would react to being locked down for so long particularly in Auckland and it’s been amazing to see all the promoters, venue owners, DJs etc that I’ve talked to on my podcast pushing to create a scene even stronger than before. It’s not been easy and there are many speed bumps in the road ahead but that spark is still there to push boundaries and create something special.
Richards sound fits in all the facets of the Techno Genre.Energetic and eclectic in his approach this mix is no different.Crafting a cinematic soundscape  full of emotion and drama, that should keep the dancefloor happy and the home listeners engaged.
We hope you enjoy

Rich Parker LO-Fi Presents EXPLORATIONS 43

Who better to kick off Season 1 than Joost Langeveld? He's one of the most influential figures in Auckland music, and one of the nicest guys too. You could legitimately call this man a 'Godfather', not only because of his musical achievements across four decades, but because of his willingness to help and empower the next generation. How exactly can NZ talent break through in an age of Spotify and venue closures across the country? This man is certainly qualified to comment! And while we're at it, we also talk to him about his own career highlights and lowlights. How did he get where he is today? And was it always this difficult to make a living out of music?



Joost has been active on the scene since the mid 80s, starting off as a bass player for numerous Auckland acts such as Compulsory Allies, Greg Johnson and Strawpeople, before moving into the studio to produce electronic music as Nemesis Dub Systems and Subware. After Subware's big hit, 'Disco Hoopla', Joost founded Reliable Recordings: the first label to release house music from local NZ artists, and recently revived as a digital label. Nowadays he spends a lot of his time at Bigpop Studios in Auckland, where he helps the next generation of NZ acts with management and production.

For The Record

For The Record S1 EP1: Joost Langeveld

It was such a privilege to speak to the all-round creative legend, Jamie Larnach. This man has spent his whole life immersed in New Zealand counterculture, some of which he helped to create. Nambassa festival, Normanby Road, the beginnings of Splore… Jamie was there. Oh how we loved hearing tales from some of the crazy happenings that helped our music scene become what it is today, but more importantly, we got to hear Jamie’s thoughtful and insightful take on today’s festival culture. Are the younger generation taking on the mantle?

Inspired by the wildcat political activism and family-friendly festivals his parents introduced him to, Jamie invested his student loan in Entrain: a series of New Year parties in Nelson that became the stuff of legend. He’s been at the forefront of the NZ outdoor party scene ever since. You might have seen him DJ as the Dastardly Bounder or Doc Westie’s Bogan Circus, and you’ve probably been to Splore, the festival he co-founded. He’s also a performance artist (including touring the world as part of a psychedelic micro-circus!), a writer, a painter, a semiotic theorist, an activist… you name it, he’s done it.

What a guy.

For The Record S1 EP2: Jamie Larnach

Our Explorations 44 has been served up by illustrious Auckland based Dj Rob Warner.

Rob is a gifted Dj that paints his sets with a classic sound, his knowledge on dance music has great depths and his helpful nature makes him a pleasure to be around.

Growing up in a household filled with 80s hits from Split Enz, Boney M,Sister Sledge, a love of music consumption was born.

An older brother later guided that taste towards the sounds of early electronic crossover hits like MARRS 'Pump up the Volume', The KLF '3am Eternal', Snap! 'The Power' and this helped form his fascination with early rave.
His Dj career  began in 1992, attending local parties and the fascination of how/why the music never stopped grew, Ths interest led to buying vinyl, and discoveries of artists such as Ce Ce Peniston, Inner City, Kym Sims, and labels such as Tribal America and Strictly Rhythm meant that a personal sound was forming.

Taking influence and guidance from locals such as  Andy Vann at Quaff Records who gave him his first club residency at Redzone (Hotel De Bretts), Simon Grigg at BPM whose suggestions steered him towards edgier artists, and Miles at Markbecks on Queen Street who introduced a young rob to dub techno and raw Detroit sounds.

Robs Dj career has been long and full of highs, but his standout moment is but remixing a heros and having it released on one of the all-time iconic house labels  (Celeda and Danny Tenaglia "Be Yourself" - remixed with Shaveer) and this moment will not to be forgotten.

His sound can be described as hypnotic and percussive tussle between soulful, harder, and classic and futuristic sounds.
and his approach to this mix brings all these elements together. In his own words...

I was Inspired by the theme of "explorations", I wanted to span each corner of my passions - from future-jazz to vocal house, drum tracks, early dub techno and the freshest house. I created it in Ableton Live and many of the tracks are edited or overlaid with additional elements.

Enjoy People.

Music by:
@carlosnilmmns
@vincewatson
@gerd
@boo-williams
@daniel-stefanik
@john-beltran
@simoncino
@ueberlingen-deemkeyne
@cod3qr
@hardrockstriker

Rob Warner - LO-FI Presents EXPLORATIONS 44

Drake & Osey - Antidote 2024

The second Edition of Explorations is brought to you by Melbourne based DJ/Producer James Martin.
This man knows his way around the 1s and 2s.
Whether chilling people out with his soul o system alter ego...Warming up with his tripped out deep sound or tearing the floor to pieces with his peak time house/techno..Its underground quality every time.
For this edition James has turned in a peak time progressive monster.
This is a slice of right now.

EXPLORATIONS 02

JAMES MARTIN. LO-FI presents EXPLORATIONS 02

The fourth  edition of EXPLORATIONS is brought to you by none other than LO-FI founder, Veteren DJ and groove visionarre OSEY. 

Embracing a creative style of Djing Osey isn't afraid of new and innovative ways to DJ. Keeping his listener engaged throughout Osey uses looping and layers to build  groove and journey. 
Especially though, Osey has the rare ability of letting his personality shine through his sets. 
This podcast is no exception. Delivering a deep and groove laden adventure. 

This is a classic Osey Rabbithole.

Enjoy!

OSEY. LO-FI Presents EXPLORATIONS 04

The Tenth Explorations to slide over LO-FI's desk is Auckland based groove magician MELLOWTACT  (aka Daniel Coe)

Mellowtact has astonished Lo-fi with his musical depth and his effortless set pacing at the ripe old age of 22.

Drawing influences from psychedelia, jazz, funk and reggae, Mellowtact fuses worldly influences with a modern deep mid tempo groove.

Daniel has been running the successful Sunday session 'Sundaze' at the Ponsonby social and has kept a busy festival calendar over summer.. appearing at AUM, IGNITION, FRIENDS FROM AROUND THE WORLD and more. He is now looking forward to EARTH-BEAT

For this podcast Daniel has weaved his usual hypnotic groove around a mix that is suitable for all occasions and is sprinkled throughout with some cheeky re-rubs to put a smile on your dial.

Enjoy.

TASCAM DR-05

MELLOWTACT. LO-FI presents EXPLORATIONS 10

Our third IN:SESSION recorded at LO-FI'S THE LOFT PARTY is a peek into the record box of TINA MAIRI.

Tina is a regular on the Auckland scene. Her reputation as a deep house connoisseur precedes her and she’s regularly booked due to skill, professionalism and a delightful presence behind the decks.

Tina's passion for electronica was founded in 2014. Led by her friends through the underground scene she found an itch that couldn't be scratched until she challenged herself to mix two songs a day for 100 days. Before the hundred days were over her passion combined with aptitude and a DJ was born. 

A residency at club night BODY JACK soon followed along with fans and friends alike.

In her own words 
“It’s such a thrill when you play tracks you love and feel passionately  about and find that other people respond in the way that you do. It’s a beautiful way to connect with people”.

Tina’s sets are always well received, a soundtrack for a party to be had. Highlights are Shipwrecked festival where her playing was so on form it drove the groovers onto the dance floor in spite of the rain.

This set in our opinion is stellar. Tina was set with the task of warming up the revellers and  did her job with aplomb, exuding confidence and coolness and pacing the evening with deep effectiveness.

Catch Tina performing for LO-FI at festivals LAST PLACE ON EARTH and AUM.
Enjoy...

TINA MAIRI. LO-FI presents IN SESSION 003

The Fourth LO-FI: IN SESSION is brought to You by LO-FI Founder and groove technician Osey.

Recorded early evening as the sun was at its warmest at Shipwrecked festival mainstage 2020.

Setting the scene, the day was hot, the festival was in full swing and revelers were just finding their feet, camps set up and ready for a weekend of wiggle.

In his own words.

Really happy with this set, Funktion 1 monitors made this the best booth I had ever played in, hearing exactly what's coming out on the dance floor, in the booth  makes all the differance and encouraged me to be more adventurous.

Really dug into the past (more than usual!) with my crate digging, this was the sound of summers past sitting alongside upfront tracks.

As usual the kitchen sink thrown into the mix, samples of my kids, birdsong, speeches, movie samples, samples, drum loops,decks and fx.

The result (Im hoping people will agree) is a warm jack and groove soundscape, setting the pace for following djs to move into the darkness of the night and the weekends revelry.

Enjoy people!

Osey. LO-FI Presents IN SESSION 004

....And here we are at number 18.
Helping us celebrate this momentous occasion is rising star YARNFUNK. (AKA Janik Levien.)

LO-fi has had the pleasure of being there in the moment, witnessing YARNFUNK push people around the dancefloor with his bubbling housey sound and his positive upbeat charm. It was a surprise to learn that he was only 2 years into his  journey at the ripe old age of 22. 

We feel here at LO-FI he will rise through the ranks like a techno rocket and thought best we show him a little attention and LO-FI love.

So about the man himself....

Janik was exposed to the sounds of bleeps and bops at a young age by his father, however the bug didn't bite until 2018 when a summer spent partying in Aotearoa opened his eyes and ears to the magic that spinning tunes brings. 

Carlluci land Festival was the final catalyst, the blood that boiled in his Father's veins was now playing its part and it was time to get busy.

Looking up to some of our scenes movers and shakers such as Ferksta and Logan Baker, and taking notes on how they craft their sound but also how they push our scene as well. Festival hopping (Last place on earth. Aum, DiCE and Shipwrecked huge highlights), and a regular fixture at parties, Yanik was moulding his musical outlook. Add to this countless hours spent crate digging his heart out discovering international sounds from the likes of Chris Stussy, Rossi, and the Funktionality mixes from Dj Dimsa, Catching sets from Jake Rattler, Mood Control. Phillipa, Jamie Sisley to name a few....his sound was being formed from his music addiction.
The result of all this sonic stew running behind his ears has formed a jacking, bumping, weaving, positive house sound, that keeps people shuffling and engaged.

Realising that it's not enough to just spin a few tunes he's pushed his energy and love into The Busy Movement project. Preaching our sound and ethics to the more rural towns of N.Z.
Utilising his art skills, build skills, decoration, sound, light design and people pleasing skills these events are put together to please your senses on all fronts.

The 60 mins 29 secs he's turned in is a perfect musical polaroid of what he's all about.

Big round of applause buddy and massive thanks. 

Enjoy peeps.

LO-FI EXPLORATIONS - YARNFUNK

YARNFUNK - LO-FI Presents EXPLORATIONS 18

Explorations 22 is brought to you by super fresh talent Mia Kober.

Mia Caught LO-FIs Attention with her warm debonair and kind nature, and after hearing her play a polished set at WALL TO WALL we were astounded to hear she has only been spinning for 9 months.

Mia's introduction to music was by her parents, being taken to festivals at an early age and being spoonfed Jazz, folk and more these influences brewed inside her mind.
Discovering the track Muse by Nicolas Jaar was the lightbulb moment and the first steps to electronic music enlightenment were taken.
Her quest took her to Europe where the chill stages of festivals was her education.

Mia has drawn inspiration from the likes off  Nicolaas Jaar, Clever Austin, Lui Mufata, Nils Frahm, Nikosh, Gary Clark Jr, Four Tet, Gidge, Lee Jones, Stimming, Arutani, Billy Caso,  Satori, Lemonella, flowers on monday, Groove Armada, Landhouse, Gaudi, Bado, Jean du Voyage... and from this her sound carries a warm emotion, with hints of melancholy.

Embedding herself in the Auckland underground scene it is her enthusiasm to organise events and lend a hand to those that need it that make her a pleasure to be around and her ease at weaving a soundscape makes her one to watch.

In her short career she has already played stellar sets at kiwi Burn and splore... and is becoming a regular on Auckland lineups.

For this mix Mia has put together a deep emotive offering..In her own words...

I spent sometime trying to make the playlist and have the mix be certain way but nothing felt like it was flowing with ease, so i ended  totally surrendering what it would sound like and just played for fun and myself dancing and moving and having a good ol time and that’s the recording I ended up with. Unplanned and just an extension of what i was feeling when I created it.  I think its good to have an outline but when we create with restrictions over what we are feeling in the moment it is harder to enjoy the recording experience. So taking a breath and tuning in to what I’m feeling in the moment is the approach that works for me. 

Smashed it Mate!

Enjoy

Mia Kober : LO-FI Presents EXPLORATIONS 22

This episode of EXPLORATIONS is brought to you by The heartthrob of Waihi Jake Rattler (AKA Jacob Osborne.)
Jake has been on LO-FI'S Radar for a longtime and it's a pleasure to have him step up to the plate. A little about him...

Discovering the magic of 4x4 Kick drums and snares through Ministry of Sound mix cds, anything that goes boom that could be pirated quickly was and a breathtaking live show from GORRILAZ made him question his life choices and pointed him in the direction of the 1s and 2s.Downloading free (the student struggle is real) Virtual DJ gave him a taste of what it's about and a bank loan and proper CDJS were purchased.Surrounding himself with NZS house talent old and new, it was easy to find inspiration and the drive to push himself forward to the forefront of the NZ Scene.
Taking note of the sounds and sets coming from GORILLAZ, FAT FREDDIES DROP, MACEO PLEX, MONKEY SAFARI, WHOMADEWHO, LEE BURRIDGE, KORA, DYLAN C, and BFF SANOI, the resulting sound from the jumble behind his ears is a warm organic suitable for all occasions deep house flavour..
Sets at LAST PLACE ON EARTH  AUM, SPLORE, SILENT STUDIOS have resulted with him being a regular on the NZ CIRCUIT. However it's his Passion for the scene and his nice guy mentality that keeps him working behind the scenes. Whether it's helping with Electrical and Lighting, Gifting time and energy into the Burner scene. Hosting stages at spore or his silky voice spreading the gospel of House and Techno on the airwaves. It's this mentality that makes him a pleasure to book.
His talent and slinky sound is on offer in this mix... in his own words.
I wanted to harmonize my own style with what I think the LO-FI sound is. Silky smooth and deep sounds. This was actually recorded at a kick on and hopefully that vibe comes through.
We think it did and we are proud to welcome one of our favorite people officially to the LO-FI family.
Big Thanks Jake. 
Enjoy people

Jake Rattler LO-FI Presents EXPLORATIONS  24

Hot off the press... EXPLORATIONS 23 is brought to you by rising superstar WATTSSON (Lydia Berryman).

Lydia's musical voyage started at a very early age with her mother's melting pot of taste.
Mozart, The Doors, Chicago and Madonna were all staples of the Berryman household, combined with a classical singing education her path to electronica was being paved.
Lydia found herself roaming the mean streets of Christchurch, ears filled with the melodies of DR  DRE and mix series from the likes of Gatecrasher, not realising these were her first baby steps in becoming a Dj.
These steps led her to House and Technos spiritual home IBIZA where the gospel of SOLOMUN ignited the fire to start playing herself.

Soaking up knowledge and skills from all those around her she watched closely the likes off Aroha, Dylan C, Rob Warner and Matt Drake and continued her musical education listening to the likes of Mira Kater, Solomun, Maceo Plex, Zhu... Lydias self exploration has resulted in  a slick, genre pushing sound.

A sound that has not gone unnoticed, Sets at Silent Studios became talk of the town and a set at Arohas EP release party alongside Aroha herself and Dylan C became personal highlights.

Lydia realises that ours is a sound to be shared. In her own words...

I am a social/extroverted person so I enjoy being out and about and going to gigs to support local artists. I try to hustle together a posse that I know would also enjoy it. I figure if we all put in that little bit of effort then the scene will thrive. I’ve created a group on Facebook for locals to share their live streams which was a Covid birth called “Share the music not the virus"
I guess I try to extract the musician from my friends or people that I meet because I think a lot of people have decided they aren’t musical but I believe most people are and that it gives you life. I am on a bit of a mission to spread the music further :-) watch this space!

For this mix, and most gigs I’m booked for, I’ll collect tracks for around say 3 weeks that have tickled my fancy and that I think would suit the audience. The end decision on whether to use a track is based on the number of goosebumps it gives me while I’m listening on my headphones. There’s not a lot more to it for me. I base my sets on how they make me feel because I believe that others will appreciate it if I use that as my sounding board. The end result? Well, that’s surely for the audience to interpret. I am pleased with how the mix sounds. I had a few wines on a Saturday night and decided that I was in the mood to record it. 

We here at LO-FI are glad she had those few wines as the result is stellar. 
Modern prog groovers with a nod to classic house peppered throughout has made this a repeat on the LO-FI HI-FI and were pretty sure it will be the same for you.

Thanks WATTSSON and welcome to the LO-FI FAM...

Enjoy.

WATTSSON. LO-FI Presents EXPLORATIONS 23

Lo-Fi Productions is a boutique promotions outfit based in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

With a focus on providing uniquely curated events gathering beautiful fun loving people together to share fresh local food and drink, stunning decor and visuals set to a soundtrack of boundary warping modern electronic dance music.

Be it lofts, studios, valleys, forests, basements and warehouses Lo-Fi Productions brings you the finest in sonic adventures.

With over 30 years promotion and touring experience featuring the finest local and international artists, the Lo-Fi team provide the very best in modern electronic music.

LO-FI

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