Downtempo luminary Rob Garza, who has been heading up Washington, D.C.’s Thievery Corporation and ESL Music imprint with musical partner Eric Hilton since the mid ’90s, spent his summer DJing and recently dropped a brilliant remix of ODESZA’s “Say My Name” feat. Zyra. After returning from Burning Man, he presented his fans “Re Mana” feat. Vasuda Sharma, a gorgeous (and free) jam.
We pinned the globetrotting Garza down and got him to share his five favorite tunes of the moment. “Autumn and the changing of the seasons usually inspires a sense of melancholy heading toward the shortening days,” Garza offers. “Here’s some tracks on my fall playlist that are beautiful, introspective melancholic and at the same time driving and danceable.”
1. Röyksopp feat. Susanne Sundfør – “Running To The Sea” (Pachanga Boys Remix)
This is a [remix from our] good friend, Mauricio Rebolledo, and his partner, Axel Schaufler. Mauricio used to DJ for us at our spot La Santanera in Playa del Carmen. He and his partner are accomplished producers, crafting an excellent remix of Röyksopp’s “Running to the Sea.” Beautiful track.
2. Downtown Party Network – “No Drama Afterhours”
I’m digging this track from Lithuanian duo downtown party network —nice spacey vibe with great hypnotic build for me a great early opener or after-hours track with its disco and arp drug infused vibes.
3. Kraak & Smaak feat. Stee Downes – “How We Gonna Stop The Time” (Monitor 66 Remix)
Kraak and Smaak have been putting out great productions for years. This song featuring the one and only Stee Downes and has a great soulful house vibe that is perfect for comedowns or buildups driving with its soulful grooves and tripped-out synths.
4. Qtier – Set Me On (David August Remix)
This song from London outfit Qtier features a great remix by David August. It’s haunting and mesmerizing. The buildup is really quite nice — it’s perfect for driving, dancing or just listening.
5. Sailor and I – “Turn Around” (Âme Remix)
I love this cut. It has such a beautiful ambience and crescendo. One of the special things about this song is it can feel somber and elation at the same time. Another gem from the Life and Death label out of Italy.