1.) Who is Rafa Santos?

From an early age I loved black music. I started playing as a resident DJ in Madrid Clubs in 2002, during the golden age golden of my city’s house music scene. House music was everywhere. I have always been involved in the scene as a DJ and promoter. I started in the world of music production a little later, and finally after several projects and sometimes to mature, I decided to create MATE, a brand that represents me 100%. Currently apart from selecting the new releases of the label, I teach music production classes at “SAE Institute” and I have a radio show called “Colors” on “PlayaSol Ibiza Radio”

2.) Tell about your new EP on MATE?

“We Still Dance” is centered around a deep underground sound, Lush chords, precise percussion and silky vocals…

A1.  “High Voltage” is my favorite, it took me a couple of months to craft its definitive Bassline, but I think it was worth it.

A2. My life is A Baseline, despite its deep atmospheric sounds, the kick-bass combo packs a powerful punch, straight to the chest.

B1. Back To The Dancefloor, A club-focused tune that lives up to its name, more house than deep.

B2 “Just One Way”, This one has a somewhat mystical edge, and a dash of fury.

The Ep was finished during confinement..

3.) Who are your greatest influences as a artist?

I love the music of Kai Alce, Chez Damier, Ron Trent, Timeline, Glenn Underground, Stefan Ringer, Kerri,  I am passionate about all American House.

These tracks have been key in shaping my understanding of electronic music.

Departure Lounge – Deep Lounge 2

Underground Resistance – Hi Tech Jazz

Chez Damier & Ron Trent – Hip To Be Desillusioned Vol 1.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRPAUdL-jfM

4.) Please tell us about the electronic scene in Madrid. What artists do you love past and present that have inspired and encouraged you and what parties that you love going to have helped your musical evolution.

Madrid is one of the European hubs of electronic music. Between 1995 – 2010, we witnessed a true avalanche of incredible clubs and parties, Currently, there are more promoters than Clubs and the generational shifts is noticeable. At this moment, I think we have a long way to go to match Berlin or Amsterdam..

Although my vision of House music is quite particular I really like Nakama Nights of which I am a member, Certain Music parties and the artist line up of Cafe Berlin. In Barcelona, we have “Líbido” with Pau Roca and Gon. In Valencia we have Oven Club, and Paraiso Festival, Tentacle Summer Fest, Electrosplash, Sonar Festival, are a very interesting events.

It is always a pleasure for me to listen to Jesús Gonsev, Manuel Costela, Certain People, The Blaxploited Orchestra, Asse, Dubbyman, UHF, and the likes. I could go on!

5.) How have you been keeping busy during lockdown?

Fortunately I have the studio at home and I only ever really left it to go the bathroom, hahahaha….

6.) What else can we expect from Rafa Santos over the next year?

There are a couple of lovingly finished releases that will see the light in the coming year, as well as the next MATE releases which are bombshells….MATE 07 for example will feature Rhythm Of Paradise with a project called “34th Floor Experience” with Nico Lahs and St.David remix…

I’m looking forward to a return to normality soon, and to be able to do club sessions again, the kind that make the hair of your neck stand…

For more info please check:

Rafa Santos Facebook

https://www.nakamabookings.com/rafa-santos.html

-Rafa Santos

Turn it up & enjoy!

–DuBeats