Berlin-based DJ/producer NOCUI (Leonardo Di Fiore) is next up to join our mixtape series! Late last year he set up his own label, Shapeless Culture, which he runs from Berlin’s Riverside Studios, and has already seen releases from emerging producers, FRCTLS and Sibéri. A classically trained pianist, Rome native NOCUI brings a sense of true musicianship in his approach to electronic music production. An early love for improvisation permeates his work, expressed in meticulously crafted tracks that combine elements of sound design and orchestration with intricate rhythmic patterns.
This mixtape is a celebration of House music tradition. I’ve spent the past year doing my homework, dedicating innumerable hours to researching and learning about the culture from which today’s dance music originated. I believe that being aware of the past and the roots of things is crucial for developing a mature understanding of music, culture, and society in general. There is a rich history and a significant social struggle embedded in electronic music, and these intricate rhythms are often used today with little awareness of their origins. With this mixtape, I aim to build a bridge between some undiscovered gems from the 80s/90s and today’s lesser-known house tracks, creating a cohesive connection between the past and the present of this ever-evolving genre”
NOCUI will be releasing his latest EP, Starlight Delight, on the 3rd of November via Shapeless Culture, which follows single the ‘Higher Energy’ and lead single/title track ‘Starlight Delight’.
On ‘Starlight Delight’, NOCUI takes us to a carefree disco-acid wonderland, where pianos loop, 303 bubbles and saxes swirl through a captivating sonic spacescape. As the vocal invites us to ‘dance tonight.. forget about all your problems’, the track delivers spades of late summer escapism like the joyful abandon of a Pikes pool party, margarita in hand.
A vibey stargazy treat that does exactly what it says on the tin. Essential.
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