Contributing WriterMelbourne-based DJ and producer Daniel Cuda is an emerging talent known for his stripped-back, groove-driven sound that sits between Deep Tech and raw House. With a growing catalogue on respected labels and support from scene heavyweights, he recently began a new chapter with his debut release on Damian Lazarus’ Rebellion.
We catch up with Cuda to talk about his ‘Mulholland Cowboy’ EP and the influences shaping his sound.
1. Hi Daniel, thanks for speaking with us today! How’s things?
I’m well, thanks for asking. The temperature is starting to cool down here in Melbourne, so I’m looking forward to the opportunity to write more music.
2. ‘Mulholland Cowboy’ is your latest EP and marks your debut on Rebellion. How does this release reflect where you are right now as an artist, compared to your past records?
I think the EP showcases where I’m currently at in terms of the style of music I’m playing in my sets and, more broadly, my general philosophy on writing tracks.
3. How did the opportunity to release on Damian Lazarus’ label come about?
I had seen videos online of Damian playing my music, so I messaged him to thank him, not really expecting him to even see the message. He hit me back straight away and invited me to send him some promos. I flicked some bits over to him, again, not really expecting anything from it, and a few months later, he approached me to do an EP.
4. What was it like growing up around Melbourne’s underground music scene, and how did it inspire you to become a DJ/producer?
Melbourne is an amazing place to grind your teeth as an upcoming DJ. Typical crowds here aren’t super educated music-wise, however, everybody loves to party. There are crews here and there that are really into the music, so you never really know what room you’re walking into, with the exception of a couple of venues. There are a lot of great artists coming out of Melbourne at the moment, which is inspiring because you see what everybody else is doing and it pushes you to stay sharp and carve out your own sound.
5. If you could play any event or venue in the world, what would it be and why?
DC10 in Ibiza, no doubt in my mind. I’ve partied there the past couple of summers, and every time I step foot into the venue, it blows me away. I’d love to be a part of that.
6. With legends like Richie Hawtin, Roger Sanchez, and Damian Lazarus already playing your tracks, who would be your ultimate b2b partner?
I feel like it would be rude if I didn’t say Damian, aye? Haha, Damian’s definitely up there, but also Jamie Jones. Both are incredible artists whom I’ve looked up to for a long time. Maybe a B3B instead.
7. Have you faced any challenges as an artist? How did you overcome them?
Definitely. Self-doubt and comparison were big ones early on. I overcame them by focusing on consistency — showing up, putting in the work, and trusting the process.
8. What are you working on right now? Anything you can share with us?
I’ve got a couple of new tracks lined up for release later this year, plus a few collaborations in the works. Can’t say too much yet, but it’s some of my best work to date.
Daniel Cuda
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