Episodes
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Kostya Outta, originally from Belarus and now based in Poland, has been plying his trade in progressive house for over a decade. His groovy melodic sound, first established with tracks like High Flyers and Silence, set the stage for his rise, earning him future support from top-tier DJs like Eelke Kleijn, Hernan Cattaneo, and Nick Warren. To date, two of his releases cracked the Top 10 of Beatport’s Progressive House chart, with one landing at #4 (‘Falcon’) - even becoming one of the platform’s Best Sellers of 2022.
Known for dynamic performances, Kostya has played at major festivals across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, sharing stages with artists like Sander van Doorn and Aly & Fila. With a unique sound he describes as "outta space," Kostya continues to impress with a dependable sound that is hard to deny.
On this Balance Selections mix he showcases that trained ear for highly contagious melodies and super tight programming. Featuring tracks and remixes from Dmitry Molosh, Digital Mess, Fuenka and a generous selection of Kostya’s own productions, this is a top notch progressive outing from one of Poland’s best
@kostyaoutta -
Roland Leesker has been immersed in electronic music since the 80's, starting his career as a house DJ in Frankfurt and quickly becoming a resident at major clubs like Wild Pitch, XS, and Dorian Gray. Today, Leesker is best known for his affiliation with Get Physical Records, where for 15 years as Managing Director he’s been at the heart of operations, helping shape and define its sounds and breaking new artists.
From studying international finance and law in three countries to working high profile roles at Virgin Music and Ministry of Sound, Leesker carries the caliber of experience that sees him receive invitations to be a keynote speaker at international music summits like ADE.
Recently, he took time away from tinkering in the background to release his debut album, ‘Searching for Peace’. Released on Get Physical, it’s a love letter to house music in all its forms: "I thought it could be nice for a change to produce a few new tracks myself, focusing on what got me here in the first place: Music and the joy it brings, creating it.’
On this mix, he expands on that with a selection filled with his favourite house tracks, or as he findly names them, ‘his sweetest, sweetest treasures’. Across 60 minutes, he showcase the genre’s most enduring tracks and underground classics that feature the likes of Roy Ayers, Tevo Howard and Dj. T.
@roland-leesker -
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In an endless quest for deeper meaning, Hobin Rude’s music is anchored in rhythm and propelled by intricate sonic textures.
In just a few years, with over 150 tracks released on 70+ labels, his attention to detail has saw him released on prestigious labels from SUDBEAT to The Soundgarden and beyond. His music is regularly supported by industry giants such as Guy J and Sasha, and he hosts the Progressive Tales podcast on the Progresivna Suzna channel. Couple that with his global tours from Spain to Malta, Armenia to Sri Lanka, and Russia to India, and it's clear that Hobin Rude is becoming an integral part of the global scene.
Nowhere is that more evident than in this highly polished Balance Selections mix. Across the full 65 minutes, and featuring artists like Alex O’Rion, Tonaco, Moshic, and more, we’re taken on a thrilling ride into deep and dark territory that is vintage progressive. -
New Zealand-born Kallisto is steadily making a name for herself with ear-catching sets crafted for progressive house purveyors. Since relocating to Melbourne, it's a skill that's not gone unnoticed, landing her on lineups alongside the likes of Hernan Cattaneo, Kasper Koman, Eelke Kleijn, GMJ & Matter, Subandrio and more. She plays regularly at the city’s popular venues and recently played on the Elements Festival.
A relative newcomer to production, yet she’s already released on Germany’s TRIP and emotions label and Australia’s UGNENIUS crew. Most recent release ‘Meraki’, on the Almar imprint, is a big slice of dancefloor fodder, hinting at what's to come from the young producer. Couple that with a growing Youtube channel featuring live Kallisto mixes, and all signs point towards an artist to keep tabs on.
On this Balance Selections mix, her ability to craft compelling stories are on full display. Featuring tracks from Hernan Cattaneo, Kostas Outta Agustin Peros and more, it’s vintage progressive filled with melodic drama and spacious euphoria that is perfect for getting lost in.
@kallisto_music -
Christian Nielsen, a Danish DJ and producer from Copenhagen, is known for a blend of melodic techno and house that is infused with Scandinavian minimalism. Launching his career in the early 2010s, he plays an energetic sound characterized by deep basslines, soaring melodies, and intricate rhythms, leading to releases on prestigious labels like Diynamic, Ellum, and Kompakt. Beyond the studio, Nielsen has made his mark performing at iconic venues such as Watergate, Fabric, Printworks, and Pacha for Solomun +1.
In this uptempo Balance Selections he dives straight in. Featuring tracks from Matara, Helsloot and Josh Samuel, this is a energetic mix of chunky house and main room techno that never strays from delivering dancefloor delight.
@christiannielsenmusic -
🥷 McKeown & Bassiray exclusive 65-track playlist 🥷
https://spoti.fi/3YtN5Lo
Deep. Dark. Progressive. Those three adjectives captured a moment in electronic music that rippled through the scene like a sonic ideology. The sound emerged at the turn of the millennium and embraced its name with laser-like precision: it sure was deep, undoubtedly dark, and undeniably progressive.
It’s a moment that Stuart McKeown and Darius Bassiray know all too well. As part of Melbourne’s Zero Tolerance crew and two-thirds of Depth Institute, they champion its contemporary incarnation, releasing on labels like Mango Alley, Sound Avenue, and, of course, Zero Tolerance.
They also lived through it, making them perfectly positioned to pontificate on the scene. Read the full feature on the Balance Music website, where we delve into this early 2000s strain of progressive. To supplement that article, they crafted a two-hour showcase of their favorite classic and contemporary genre moments. Featuring tracks from John Creamer & Stéphane K, Chab, Diego Moreira, Analog Jungs, and more, this is an excellent entry point for anyone looking to explore this audio world.
@mckeown-bassiray -
For our special 300th episode, we welcome a true electronic music icon...
As part of the original crew of Nubreed DJs, Sander Kleinenberg helped shape a sound that defined a generation. However, more than his peers, Kleinenberg challenged the prog status quo in a way that set him apart. The first Everybody mix compilation, featuring pink-themed art collage and journal-style liner notes, showcased an artist with a penchant for fun—an image that contrasted sharply with the serious persona his contemporaries portrayed.
That energy transferred to his sets too, which would fluctuate from vibrant deep house to dark, dramatic progressive sounds. It resonated widely, so much so that he took out the Essential Mix of the Year honours in 2001.
Today, he remains active in the studio, boasting an ever-growing and impressive list of collaborators, including names like Halsey, Daft Punk, Timbaland, and Madonna. His Deepest Mixtape In The Universe podcast is proof that he hasn’t lost his mixing touch. We are thrilled to host this legend for a two-hour mix featuring Phil Kieran, Tigerskin, Blue Amazon, and more. -
Kabi is part of a new wave of progressive house producers emerging on the global scene. Hailing from Argentina (where else?), he belongs to a generation raised in homes influenced by the musical revolution of the nineties and early 00s. For Kabi, this translates to a rich musical upbringing filled with Jamiroquai, Illya Kuriaki & The Valderramas (an Argentinean hip and funk duo), and even St. Germain.
Today, he’s building a reputation through carefully crafted DJ mixes and an impressive array of productions. Bedrock, All Day I Dream, and The Soundgarden all feature Kabi’s work, and now he adds Balance Music to that list. His recent Venom EP comprises a trio of well-honed tracks that sound as if created by a two-decade veteran. The title piece, “Venom,” is dance floor titanium—a progressive bomb of the nuclear kind that should come with a warning. “Misti,” with its lovely introspective intro, harks back to the glory days of progressive house, while “Switch” draws you in with melodic grit and a massive breakdown that will captivate even the most stubborn dance floors.
In this Balance Selections mix, Kabi showcases his complete talent with a complete 60-minute set that explores different shades of progressive house. Featuring artists like Traumer, Scippo, Avision, and, of course, Kabi himself, this is a robust journey of dance floor bliss that begins deep before building to a heavy-duty big room finale.
@kabi-ar -
Fiona Kraft is a multi-faceted creative hailing from France. From a piano-playing child to a teenage clubber, then transitioning to a model, DJ, producer, and record label owner, her journey has been one of hard work and dedication. This path has shaped her into an artist whose DJ sets—ranging from AfroHouse to tech house and progressive—captivate global audiences.
Collaborators include producers like Damian Lazarus (Lazarusman) and Gab Rhome, and she is set to work with the legendary singer Robert Owens. This year Kraft also launched her own label, NON MERCI MUSIC, a space for musical freedom and experimentation. Her positive sets have taken her to over 40 countries, where she has performed at prestigious venues and festivals such as Caprices Festival, Hi Ibiza, and Fabric London.
In a brisk 60-minute mix, the French producer presents a sharp blend of contemporary deep house, layered with Afro house and progressive influences. Featuring artists like Shall Ocin, Tim Engelhardt, and Jonathan Kaspar, this impressive showcase weaves rich textures that feel timeless.
@fionakraftmusic -
Ranj Kaler is a name becoming more regular on the global scene. After losing his DJ residency at the start of the pandemic, he used the lockdown to focus on music production. Within six months, he was releasing tracks on labels like ARRVL and Four Candles’ Keep Thinking, alongside attention grabbing reworks of Sade and Kate Bush. Since then, he's released music on labels including Capital Heaven and Foxtrot Alpha.
Never one to stick to a single genre, Ranj’s productions blend house, breaks, techno, and electro, creating a distinct sound that has earned him support from a long list of DJs from John Digweed, to Hernán Cattaneo. His talent has also made him a sought-after remixer, with labels like Hooj Choons, Pangea, and Laika Sounds commissioning his work.
On this 90 minute mix Ranj delivers a smooth mix of deep breaks, house, prog and more that feels vital. Featuring productions from Framewerk, Danny Howells, Sébastien Léger and more, this is an effortless mix showcasing Kaler’s dynamic track selection. -
Electronic producer/DJ Ok Sure is a prominent name in Melbourne's music scene, renowned for her dark, moody, and melodic sound that has made her a fixture at festivals like Rainbow Serpent and Let Them Eat Cake. She’s a regular on Australian radio and hosts a show on Reform Radio in the UK, which was nominated for a Mixcloud Online Radio Award.
Her extensive discography spans nearly 15 years, featuring collaborations with artists such as Deadmau5, Sophie Lowe, Charles Oliver, and Lupa J. However, it’s her live performances that truly stand out, with DJ sets pulsing through techno, deep house, electronica, and beyond.
That genre-hopping prowess is on full display in this otherworldly two-hour mix that is perfect for early morning hours after a club session. Filled with twisted electronica, dark deep techno, and more, this adventurous ride delves into the after-hours realm with unexpected artists like Four Tet, Max Cooper, Nathan Fake, Donato Dozzy, and Luciano. -
Katrin Souza's journey is a remarkable example of turning adversity into creativity. Despite growing up in an orphanage and lacking formal musical education, Katrin Souza overcame significant obstacles to pursue her dreams. After discovering the joys of electronic music, she dedicated her nights to studying music production while balancing a full-time job and raising two young children as a single parent. Her first demos received support from Paul Oakenfold and Roger Shah. This was an unexpected surprise for her, given that she had to fend for herself for most of her life: “I had never really received support or recognition in my life. Somehow, being an outcast felt more comforting.”
Today Souza is a recognized member of the global music community, managing a full-time music career while raising her two creative children: “My son writes music and my daughter is an artist. I am very proud of them!” Her music releases, spanning over 15 years on labels such as Monstercat Silk, Dissident, and LW Recordings, feature melodic arrangements that linger long after the song ends. Her recent production, ‘Paradise Island,’ alongside John Fisherman on the HOROSHO imprint, exemplifies this with its breezy, summery sound and optimistic overtones.
In her two-hour mix, Souza delivers an exceptional journey that highlights the joy of escaping through music. Featuring tracks from Gai Barone, DJ Koze, Guy J, Dave DK, and more, this fluid progressive mix explores a range of meditative flavors which build towards an explosive end.
@katrinsouza -
In Melbourne the names of Jacob Malmo and Tom Evans are well known as solo artists. Together, they have carved a niche for themselves as The Journey, a name synonymous with sturdy progressive. It's a sound that's been forged with their combined 20 years plus of dance music experience - and one that’s gaining traction internationally.
Alongside multiple European tours, they have graced stages at iconic festivals like Rainbow Serpent, Pitch Music & Arts, Subsonic, and Strawberry Fields. Labels from Monaberry to Stil Vor Talent to Einmusika have signed their music and they've collaborated with artists including Bebetta, Tim Engelhardt, and Florian Kruse.
Their name is an apt one too: a Journey set can take exciting turns which never feels forced. On this almost two hour set they deliver on that sentiment with an adventurous sound that is minimal in aesthetic yet maximal in impact. With tracks and remixes from Sébastien Léger, UNKLE, Tim Engelhardt, Guy Gerber and more, this one deserves your full attention.
@thejourneymusicaus -
We head to Western Europe to spotlight Rokazer, a French producer and DJ who has been quietly crafting main room dance floor music for well over half a decade. It’s synchronous how the word "rock" is embedded in his Rokazer alias: he has a knack for creating rocking propulsive progressive aimed at making people dance. And mentioning main room masters like Eric Prydz and Deadmau5 as creative inspirations make his knack for driving basslines, sparkling percussion, and immersive melodic breakdowns make even more sense.
His discography boasts hard-hitting releases on labels like Mango Alley, Colorize, and Freerange, along with a 10-track full-length album on Golden Wings Music. Though his production output remains steady, Rokazer has taken a step back from live performances since becoming a father. He notes, "People often ask where they can see me in concert. I’d love to perform live in 2025, so if any promoters are listening, I'll be more available then!"
As his bio suggests, Rokazer delivers the "nectar of the French progressive house sound to ears worldwide," and if this mix is any indication, that nectar is addictively sweet. Featuring tracks and remixes from a stellar lineup of progressive house artists including Meeting Molly, Subandrio, GMJ & Matter, and Mike Rish, this is an energetic mix designed to elevate any mood.
@rokazer -
In 2011, Lithuanian producers Donatello, Arnas D and Kastis Torrau entered a competition to remix Sasha’s “Cut Me Down.” Their entry won and was released on Last Night On Earth. Currently, a YouTube upload of their wistful remix has amassed 17 million plays and 3,991 comments singing its praise. That’s impressive numbers for any dance music genre.
Since then, with a string of releases on notable labels like Get Physical and Renaissance, Donatello has become one of his country’s most prolific producers. After an enforced break from the industry due to the pandemic, he’s finally back focussing on music: “I hope to return to the studio this winter after a long break and create the works that have been in my head since the start of the pandemic.”
And it’s not a moment too soon. In an hour filled with depth and dynamics, the Lithuanian producer straddles an adventurous line between deep progressive and bouncey deep house. With tracks from Enamour, M.O.S., Dhany G, and Donatello himself, this mix is a timely reminder of what we’ve been missing during that enforced absence.
@djdonatello -
Recently, we released a highly accomplished 4-track EP featuring Kamilo Sanclemente in collaboration with fellow Colombian producers. One of these collaborators is producer/DJ Juan Pablo Torrez, a well-known name in his native Colombia.
He is a radio host, producer, and label owner (Clubsonica, which was named "Best Record Label" in 2023 at the Colombian Dance Awards), and with over a decade’s worth of production experience, his hard work is starting to pay off globally. In 2021, his track ‘Leda’ was selected by Nick Warren as his favorite track of that year. And with major support from progressive DJs and beyond, it’s clear that Torrez is a name to invest in.
On this stunning 80 mix the Colombian producer showcase an intricate progressive house mix that sparkles with an emotive energy and main room appeal.
Featuring a special intro exclusively produced for this mix, Torrez pays homage to his Medellin community with a tracklist featuring Kamilo Sanclemente, Sebastian Valencia, Gux Jimenez and more. -
Anyone with a passing interest in early and mid-2000s progressive breaks will know the name Fretwell. The Sheffield producer's lush take on the sound was signed to renowned labels including Global Underground, Bedrock, and Electrofly, the breaks offshoot of Baroque Records. Most notably, he contributed the exquisite "Faceless" to Anthony Pappa’s Balance 006.
Nowadays, he occasionally returns to production, with recent works including remixes for Pole Folder’s Reworck imprint and Aussie label Zero Tolerance Recordings (his take on the classic Digby & Oliver track "Human"). It’s clear the veteran still possesses the magic that made him such a reliable production force.
In his first DJ mix in over a decade, he delivers a fluid 80-minute set in which his progressive breaks credentials are well and truly on display. Featuring tracks from James Harcourt, Luke Chable & Steve May, Forty Cats and Framewerk, this one demands repeated listens.
@timfretwell -
Sistersweet is a DJ/producer from Moscow, Russia, and a resident of the local Digital Emotions crew. She is an active member of her community, spreading the progressive sound through her LUCHiSVETA radio show on www.megapolisnight.ru and support slots for DJs such as Kasper Koman and DJ Ruby. Production-wise, she is slowly building a portfolio with releases on labels like Balkan Connection, SkyTop, and AH-Digital, and upcoming signings for The Soundgarden and Higher States.
A Sistersweet mix skillfully blends progressive with the more organic strain of house, a fusion which is finding favor globally. That sound is on full display in this special conceptual mix, all with the intention of evoking ‘pleasant nostalgic emotions.’
Consisting of unofficial remixes of stone-cold classics, she runs through contemporary takes from producers like Emi Galvan and Eichenbaum of well-known artists including Tycho, Moby, and Everything but The Girl. Watch out for the excellent Mike Griego remix of the Evolution classic ‘Walking in Fire’ and Sistersweet’s own special take on Satoshi Tomiie’s ‘Love in Traffic’.
@sistersweet -
Noel Sanger is a Florida native with a career spanning nearly three decades in progressive house and trance. Starting on classic imprints like Limbo and Release Recordings, he went on to work with artists like Erasure, Nadia Ali, John Taylor of Duran Duran, and Markus Schulz. Today, he runs Dissident Records, a label boasting tracks from artists like Kamilo Sanclemente, Jamie Stevens, Gai Barone, and more.
On this Balance Selections mix, the veteran shows his pedigree with a tight mix of contemporary prog. Featuring tracks and remixes from Lemon8, Michael & Levan, Stiven Rivic, Ruben Karapetyan, and more, this is 90 minutes of class. -
🚨 To commemorate 20 years of Balance 006, Anthony Pappa compiled a special 2 hour mix, a 2024 rendition if you like of his revered Balance entry: one hour of lush prog breaks and one hour of hypnotic 4/4. 🚨
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Few DJs capture the imagination of prog punters like Australia’s Anthony Pappa. Known for his technical proficiency and ability to mix tracks with surgical precision, he is a generational talent who rightfully became a pivotal scene figure.
With a sound rooted in darker, rebellious tones, he fully embodied the underground at a time when the term still held weight.
Achieving what Pappa did requires a life filled with experiences. Given the way social media, marketing, and promotion have transformed the scene, his story is unlikely to be replicated.
A pivotal part of our story, we dived deep with Anthony Pappa to discuss his career and his peerless Balance 006.
Check Balance website for full article and tracklist. - Show more
