Selectors Series: Into The Light w/REES

Under the northern lights of the UK’s club circuit, where the raw spirit of Middlesbrough merges with a cosmic blend of rhythms, we present the fourth episode of our Selectors series featuring REES. Known for his eclectic style and fearless experimentation, REES draws from the obscure side of electronic music, effortlessly weaving acid, electro, EBM, and leftfield house into his pulsating sets and productions.

As a resident digger of unique sounds, he carefully curates his own labels to unearth hidden gems. Co-founding Magic Ritmo in 2023, he has been instrumental in reviving rare cuts from the likes of Adel Dhibi and G.F.X., breathing new life into celebrated tracks and putting fresh, cosmic sounds onto the turntables. Paradiso Records, his first label launched in 2018, reflects his passion for Italo and Newbeat.

In the studio, REES’ relentless love for analog grit and rhythmic intensity has led him to collaborate with labels like Bordello A Parigi and Palms Trax's CWPT, solidifying his status as a tastemaker in the world of electronic music. His latest project, Echo Ritual, leans into his darker sensibilities, connecting electro and EBM with a club-ready edge, set to ignite dance floors. Tracks like "Venom" and "Northern Chug" pulse with an innate energy that draws dancers deep into the grooves, while past releases like Lizardo Mode and Three Eyes showcase his talent for crafting hypnotic soundscapes brimming with textured synths and enigmatic rhythms.

Now, as he joins us to share a mix and exchange some words, REES invites listeners to journey through the refined edges of his magic touch—a dive into the mind of an artist who embraces pushing boundaries.

Can you tell us about your early influences and what drew you into the world of dance music production and DJing?

It's quite clear to draw a parallel from the music my dad introduced me to, to my music taste today. That early intro to Synth Pop and New Wave grew into Italo, New Beat, EBM, and so much more. I've always found enjoyment in discovering new or unknown music and sharing that with people, which is exactly what DJing is for me.

Growing up in the Northeast of England, did the local music scene shape your sound as an artist?

Absolutely! Local scenes are so important for shaping young people's perspective on music. We were lucky enough to have different events regularly bringing well-respected DJs to Middlesbrough, something not to be taken for granted in a small town. Hearing new and exciting music like that is crucial and makes you dig a little bit deeper into things.

What inspired you to start Magic Ritmo, and what does the name represent to you? How would you describe the sound and ethos behind the label?

The name translates to Magic Rhythm. It's boundless, ethereal, hedonistic, weirdo music with that unique quality that you can't quite describe.

Can you walk us through your creative process when producing a track or planning a DJ set?

When writing music, inspiration can stem from recent sounds, places, or people. From then, it's a lot of improvisation in the moment, hearing in my head how the track moves forward, a melody within a random delay that really isn't there, or manipulating a sound beyond recognition to bring a new idea. As for a DJ set, it's improvisation again with many factors: the place, venue, people, time, situation, line-up.

You've had some exciting releases in the past few years, notably Devils Club on Palms Trax’s CWPT label. Could you tell us about the inspiration behind this release?

Most of the Devils Club record was focused around percussion. The drums and musical scales were inspired by music from across North Africa and the Middle East, melded together with Belgium's favourite son, New Beat. 

Your reissue of the iconic Eternal by Geoff Waterston (aka G.F.X) earlier this year made many people happy. What does this release mean to you, and what was the process of bringing it back to life?

It was a huge privilege to bring such a significant record back into the world, and a proud moment especially considering its important part in Northeast rave history. Like many things, the process was the best part: many conversations with Geoff and his family to build the reissue the correct way, learning about the meaning and culture surrounding the record and the time it existed in.

Are there any upcoming projects, either in terms of music production or events, that we might hear more about in the future?

We have another great reissue coming out this December, among a list of other incredible records, larger projects, and my debut album for 2025. We're also bringing Bufiman to Newcastle on December 6th; come through!

Everyone's favourite label!

As a DJ and producer, how do you see the electronic music scene evolving, particularly in the UK?

The frequency of clubs and venues shutting down paints a bleak picture, especially for those in smaller towns like the significance of my own I previously mentioned. But our music scenes have historically always found a way. I see this through more collaboration and a DIY approach.

💎 Don't miss out REES' pre-orders. Follow him on Revibed:

👀 Discover more about REES's recent work, his productions and reissues:

His latest release 'Echo Ritual'

His 2024 release 'Lizardo Mode'

His 2024 reissue of G.F.X's timeless classic 'Eternal' EP

His 2023 Dream Wave EP released in the Bordello A Parigi label

His 2021 Computer World EP on Part Four Records

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