TuneLab
Simon Doty - DJ Set
From Coda in Toronto, Simon Doty's marathon DJ set is for the heads who appreciate a slow burn, where the journey matters more than the destination. This is progressive house and melodic techno woven into a tapestry of deep grooves, perfect for an intimate club where the lights are low and the vibe is warm. The atmosphere is one of focused immersion, with a crowd locked into the subtle shifts and builds, away from festival bombast. Technically, it's a nuanced affair with an average BPM of 126.5, ranging from 122 to 164, but mostly sitting in that sweet spot for melodic progression.
The key of 12A dominates, supported by modulations to 10B and 4A, allowing for emotional lifts and deeper, more introspective phases. Energy is balanced, with avg_low at 0.62 providing a steady foundation, mids for melodic hooks, and highs used sparingly for accent—this is mixing as storytelling, with long blends and harmonic layering. Simon's own 'Open Air' with Liu Bei is a highlight, showcasing his talent for airy, emotive synth work over a driving beat. The crate dig reveals gems like Gullen & Anders.'s 'Nostaw (Mondkrater Remix)' for its minimal, hypnotic pulse, and Divino's 'Pemba' for its organic, percussive depth.
Mike Griego's 'Solaris (Cid Inc. Remix)' brings a proggy, techno-edged intensity, while Tobu's 'Higher' might raise eyebrows with its trancey appeal but fits the melodic arc. The journey starts with the deep, inviting 'Radiant Deep Beats', peaks with the rhythmic complexity of 'Anthem, Pt. 1', and closes on the soulful house of Josh Butler's 'Got a Feeling (Bontan Remix)'—a full tracklist that rewards patient listening.