Through his musical pursuits Rotterdam-based DJ and producer Najel Monteiro is exploring the African rhythms that soundtracked his youth, but approached through a contemporary electronic lens.

Whilst these influences are present in much of Monteiro's music, like his inspirations that came before him - principally Detroit techno pioneers Jeff Mills and Robert Hood - his mission is to use his music as a vehicle to “challenge the status-quo”, channeling this into authentic and forward-thinking electronics.

With several releases under his belt, landing on the likes of DNA REC, Forte Techno, Induxtriall, Motech Records and most recently on Carista’s Modern Intimacy compilation, we expect it won’t be long before we’re hearing a lot more of Monteiro’s name.

Ahead of the release of Modern Intimacy, we invited him to take care of this week's Shine A Light On mix. So lock in and get yourself aquainted...

Najel Monteiro: The 'Shine A Light On' Mix

United Identities is a radio show, music label and event series founded by @iamcarista. Established in 2017. Distribution by Clone Distribution Rotterdam — distribution@clone.nl

Ransom Note is an online music, arts and culture magazine. We provide a home for readers and writers with boundless enthusiasm, esoteric knowledge, fierce opinions and impeccable taste.

With our core team immersed in all aspects of dance music, we publish news, articles, and interviews covering the greatest in innovative, underground culture from across the globe. We offer regular, exclusive music and mixtapes from our favourite artists, and publish features shining a light on everything from the freshest new artists to the untold tales from rave history.

Alongside this we offer musings on film, books, life, and art, generating some context and controversy as an antidote to the reheated PR that clogs up the internet. Our office is fuelled by Tunnock’s Bars, cat memes, hangovers and a ridiculous, never ending love for our culture.

We're always interested in getting new writers on board – feel free to get in touch if you’ve got a story to tell.

With love until the grave.

In the beginning, there was Jack, and Jack had a groove.
And from this groove came the groove of all grooves.
And while one day viciously throwing down on his box, Jack boldy declared,
"Let there be house!" and house music was born.
I am, you see,
I am the creator, and this is my house!
And, in my house there is only house music. But, I am not so
Selfish because once you enter my house it then becomes OUR house and
OUR house music!" And, you see, no one can own house because
House music is a universal language, spoken and understood by all.
You see, house is a feeling that no one can understand really unless
You're deep into the vibe of house. House is an uncontrollable
Desire to jack your body. And, as I told you before, this is
Our house and our house music. And in every house, you
Understand, there is a keeper. And, in this house, the keeper
Is Jack. Now some of you who might wonder.
Who is Jack, and what is it that Jack does?
Jack is the one who gives you the power to jack your body!
Jack is the one who gives you the power to do the snake.
Jack is the one who gives you the key to the wiggly worm.
Jack is the one who learns you how to walk your body.
Jack is the one that can bring nations and nations of all
Jackers together under one house.
You may be black, you may be white; you may be Jew or Gentile.
It don't make difference in our House.
And this is fresh!
- Larry Heard aka Mr. Fingers -

What done is done 🙏

Transforming sounds.

Techno producer & DJ from Rotterdam.