Australia seems to be the new birthplace of forward-thinking electronic producers who manage to create dance music that still feels deeply personal. That's the case with Dego - a Sydney-based artist whose debut EP Home took the whole team by surprise.
The 5-track EP is an immersive fusion of ambient soundscapes, hypnotic rhythms, and emotionally charged vocal hooks that invites listeners on a captivating journey from start to finish.
I clearly remember the influx of emotions as soon as I heard the opener "Circles" and the texture-rich intro that felt like a breeze was passing through my ears. It becomes evident that Dego (real name Hugo Degotardi) will create a sense of space and depth, pulling listeners into a world of sonic exploration.
Taking clear inspiration from the vibrant nuances of legends like Tourist and BICEP, Dego’s work balances delicate melodies with driving beats, striking the perfect harmony between introspection and energy.
There's a rawness in his production that immediately brought to mind early BICEP and the 2014-2016 SoundCloud era. While many producers tend to smooth out or refine that edge over time, it's precisely that rough-around-the-edges feel that made me fall in love with the EP. Maybe it's just me, but personally I think it gives the music a sense of authenticity.
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"It is a series of 5 songs each with their own little story. After a few years of working out my sound, I am getting closer and closer and these songs are the best representation of where I want my music to go. Thanks for being a part of the journey.", Dego shares on Instagram.
It won't take long for you to realize how different the tracks on Home are and Dego's absolutely right - each of them tells a different story. I was pleasantly surprised by the switch between "Circles" and the rather groove-heavy "Love Goes". In general, the EP ebbs and flows with a fluidity that allows the listener to experience a range of emotions, from quiet introspective lonesomeness to uplifting euphoria.
If you're looking for an after-hours dancefloor banger, look no further than "Can't Say", a track that beautifully juxtaposes dark synths to a UKG-inspired beat.
I can't be anything, but utterly excited for the future of Dego. I feel that with Home, the Australian producer makes an important first step towards claiming his spot in the new wave of emotive electronic music and we're yet to see his full potential.
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