Toronto-based DJ/producer Nathan Barato’s sound straddles the border between house and techno. Over the span of standout releases on Hot Creations, Hottrax, Relief and Saved Records, as well as regular gigs at hotspots all over the world, Barato continues to push his sound forward.
After making his debut on Ferris Wheel with “Hood Damage” in February, Barato just released a milestone effort by way of his Past Forward album for Hot Creations. The full-length features top collaborations with Wayne Tennant, Djeuhdjoah & Lieutenant Nicholson, Lost BOUL. & NB76, Room 303, Kid Enigma and Mikey V.
This month Barato will drop his “Ghetto Drums” collab with fellow Torontonian and frequent musical cohort Carlo Lio on their Rawthentic label. And if that wasn’t enough, King Street will unleash a remix set of Barato’s 2018 stormer “It’s My Turn” featuring a re-rub by Spanish DJ/producer Piem and Ecuadorian tech-house demon Andre Salmon.
We caught up with Barato and asked him to share his five top tracks of the moment.
Nathan Barato – Over You ft. Wayne Tenant (Hot Creations)
This one came about when I was making random grooves in the studio one day and it clicked right away. It immediately felt as though this track needed a vocal and the right one, too. So I tracked down Wayne as I thought he’d be perfect. And he was.
Lil’ Mo’ Yin Yang – Reach (“Little” “More” Mix) (Strictly Rhythm)
This is a classic I’ve been dropping over the last few months. It’s such a big record and always goes off. A lot of people don’t realize this is a collaboration by Louie Vega and Erick Morillo. Such a wicked record. I used to crush this nonstop back in the day and it feels great to run it again. Still sounds so fresh!
Carloh – A Gozar (Saved Records)
This record has a great arrangement and always creates a distinctive energy. Love Carloh, the dude is a G.
Infinity Ink – Rushing (Brett Johnson’s Dub Mix) (Cooltempo)
I love the original mix so much, and I’m a huge fan of Brett Johnson so it’s a sure thing I’d love this combination on the remix.
Pawsa – Back 2 Front (Solid Grooves Records)
The dude is becoming a master at simplicity. Such wicked groove and arrangement. Trust me, play it and see.