Contributing Writer
LEGATO, a UK-based producer known for his deep house and melodic electronic sound, has been gaining significant traction in the underground scene. After launching his career in 2019, LEGATO quickly made a name for himself with releases on esteemed labels such as Anjunadeep, Eton Messy, and Nightcolours. His music often blends emotive melodies with driving rhythms, proving popular among both listeners and industry heavyweights.
With previous releases getting the nod from key figures in the electronic music world, including Disclosure, Elderbrook and Lane, LEGATO released his debut EP Midnight Rendezvous last month. With the EP out now, we wanted to dive into the tracks that have shaped his unique sound.
Here then are 10 of LEGATO’S all-time favorite tracks.
Nova – Four Tet & Burial
These two producers need no introduction, both having played a pivotal role in my early exploration into electronic music and still shaping my music influence today. “Nova” masterfully combines melancholic, atmospheric textures with a deep, driving rhythm, creating an emotional depth that resonates with me greatly – a true masterpiece of modern electronic music!
Sea Parade – Tim Green
Tim has been a huge inspiration to me since I started making music for All Day I Dream. His production style is so clean and precise, and the way he crafts his tracks with such meticulous attention to structure is truly impressive. I’m especially drawn to how he incorporates real world instruments and sounds, something I also love to do. In “Sea Parade”, Tim uses this hauntingly beautiful four bar piano loop that evolves throughout the track, with its builds and breakdowns executed to perfection.
Another Rendezvous – Vince Watson
There are so many Vince Watson tracks I could have chosen, but I landed on “Another Rendezvous.” It’s a captivating journey through deep, melodic techno, marked by its rich atmospheric soundscapes and a seamless blend of lush synths and subtle rhythms, all wrapped around a stunning chord progression. His masterful use of harmony and progression creates a dreamy, immersive experience that evolves beautifully, drawing you into a state of introspective calm.
I Hadn’t Known (I Only Heard) – Herbert
Herbert’s 1998 track was truly ahead of its time and still sounds just as fresh today. It’s easily one of my top five physical records I own, even though it’s the 2019 repress! The track is a near-perfect blend of jazz-inspired deep house, with the loop vocal refrain – “be-fore” – lodging itself in your mind for good. The smoky chords and perfectly swung percussion creates a mesmerizing, feel-good groove that’s timeless, and it’s one I know I’ll love forever.
It’s Just (House of Dupree) – Leon Vynehall
I absolutely love Leon Vynhell; to me, he’s one of the best producers of the last fifteen years. This particular track from his standout 2014 EP “Music For The Uninvited” perfectly blends classic house elements with a modern twist. With its infectious bassline, warm keys, and brilliant sampling of J Dilla’s “So Far To Go,” it’s a modern classic. It’s so uplifting and always brings energy when I hear it in the club. Definitely go check out his back catalogue – there’s so much amazing music to discover!
Cloud 909 – Lone
Lone is another producer I draw a lot of influence from. His distinct sound features vibrant melodies, intricate drum patters, and nostalgic flair. Unlike more manufactured electronic music, his productions have a warm, human quality that feels authentic. He crafts lush soundscapes that evoke ethereal wonder, with “Cloud 909” serving as a perfect example of his unique style.
Says – Nils Frahm
Nils is undoubtedly my favorite composer of the twenty-first century. I’ve seen him live more than I have anyone else, and I’ve been moved to tears every time. A true giant in modern neoclassical music, he masterfully blends acoustic instruments with electronic elements to create stunning pieces of art. His standout albums for me are “Spaces” and “All Melody”, “Spaces” feature the masterpiece “Says,” which showcases his signature mix of minimalist piano, ambient soundscapes, and subtle electronic textures. It takes listeners on a profound emotional journey that lingers long in the mind after the music fades.
Snooze 4 Love – Todd Terje
“Snooze for Love” by Todd Terje is an irresistible blend of disco and house, highlighted by a playful synth melody that evolves alongside its infectious bassline. The track creates an upbeat atmosphere that invites listeners to dance, enriched by lush instrumentation and a dreamy vocal sample. It beautifully showcases Terje’s skill in merging nostalgic elements with a fresh sound.
Harlequin (Kerri Chandler Edit) – Rootstrax
It’s tough to choose just one track from such a legendary and pioneering force in electronic music, but I settled on this incredible edit he created in 2013. With its smooth, rolling bassline and intricate percussion, the track feels both fresh and soulful. The atmospheric pads, reverberated brass samples, and melodic elements create a captivating soundscape. While Chandler’s talent for blending groove and emotion is evident in all his music, this edit stands out for me in his impressive catalogue.
Don’t Give Up (LEGATO’s 2024 Edit) – Chicane
I couldn’t finish up this playlist without a nod to trance music, as it has greatly inspired me since I started out. While the genre evolved throughout the 2000s into a style I found myself distancing from, the early tracks are truly breathtaking. At the beginning of the year, I made an edit of Chicane’s “Don’t Give Up.” The original is a classic, so I wanted to give it my own twist. It’s an emotionally charged blend of melodic trance and pop, featuring a beautiful chord progression paired with Bryan Adams’ powerful vocals!