In the fast-evolving world of Latin Tech House, Rimbano is a name making waves with his fresh and percussive sound. Known for blending diverse cultural influences, Rimbano’s tracks are redefining the genre’s landscape, catching the attention of top names like Cloonee and Gordo. In this interview, we dive into his new single ‘Safada’, his production journey, what’s next for him, and more.
Hey Rimbano, thanks for taking the time to chat with us, how are you doing today?
Hey! I’m doing great, thank you for having me.
Let’s start with ‘Safada’. Can you tell me the story on how this one was created?
I started making “Safada” back in January and it actually took a few versions in order to get to the final one. I opted for a Brazilian vocal instead of a Spanish one, which is more usual for Latin Tech House, and added some Brazilian funk percussions to spice the beat up. Those are probably the elements that make it work so well on the dancefloor.
Released on Andruss’ Drop Low Records, how does it feel to have your music on this well established label?
It’s an honor to me since I really admire the impact Andruss had on the Latin Tech House scene, and I was so excited when he texted me just after his set at EDC Las Vegas saying that he wanted to sign “Safada”. In August we also hung out together in Italy and talked about new projects, so expect new music on Drop Low Records soon!
You’ve developed a really distinct percussive house style. Can you share how this signature sound came to be and what inspires it?
The Latin Tech House scene can be considered an oversaturated market, with DJs and producers using the same sounds and playing the same tracks over and over again. In order to stand out, I decided to implement in my productions percussive sounds from different cultures (like hand-played djembes and congas from Cuba, Brazil and Africa) instead of just sticking to generic elements. I believe that having a melting pot of cultures in music can lead to original and never heard before products. The same goes for vocals, as I always dig from different sources in order to find a unique vocal for the track I’m working on.
What production tips would you give to producers out there searching for their own style?
I highly recommend focusing on a specific scene and finding the balance between the sounds that inspire you and what you can actually bring to the table in that scene, based on your own background and culture. That way you’re able to stand out even in the most saturated market as a breath of fresh air. I also suggest finding some specific elements that define your signature sound, so when people listen to a track, they’ll be able to recognize it as yours. This has been a game changer for my career, as people started sending me videos of my unreleased tracks being played by big names like Cloonee and Gordo. Those tracks weren’t out yet, but people recognized them as mine.
If you could collaborate with any other DJ, who do you think would be the perfect match for your music?
The perfect match would probably be Andruss. We mutually support each other’s work and our styles fit well together, as peculiar percussions and vocals are common elements in our productions. Another DJ and producer is GREG (BR). He’s one of the hottest names too in the Latin Tech House scene, and we already have a track together in the works. We are also planning to work on more music together in the future, so stay tuned for that!
Who would you love to collaborate with outside the house music scene?
If it was on a House track, definitely Charli XCX. Her vocals are perfect for House music, proof of that is the support from John Summit on his radioshow of my edit of Charli XCX’s “Club Classics”. But if it were a completely different genre, I would love to work with Ava Max. I’m a huge fan of her music and electro pop in general, and she is one of the artists that best represent that genre worldwide.
Which artists have influenced you the most as a DJ and producer?
Cloonee and Gordo have definitely influenced my sound, both in productions and sets. When I have writer’s block I listen to some of their sets and immediately get inspiration back. Furthermore, having my music continuously supported by them (Gordo played my track “Colombiana” together with Jezu (US) during all summer, as Cloonee did with “Safada” and many other unreleased tunes) means a lot to me, and I’m so grateful for that.
Thanks for taking the time to chat! Do you have any news to close this out?
Sure! I already have music planned in the near future, such as my debut release on Kevin McKay’s label Glasgow Underground and my comeback release on the Las Vegas based label Intentions Records. At the moment I’m in the studio working on more music and I’m currently planning international gigs for 2025, so keep an eye on my social media to stay updated on what’s to come!
