Dan Azzo, a key player in Australia’s house music scene, is set to release his debut single “Perfect Love.” The track features Ngaiire, the acclaimed Papua New Guinea-born R&B and future soul artist.
“Perfect Love” delivers a bold, vocally-driven house anthem, echoing the sounds of Dennis Ferrer and Sandy Rivera. Azzo’s dynamic beats and intricate percussion merge seamlessly with Ngaiire’s soulful voice, crafting a track that will captivate house music enthusiasts.
Azzo’s sets, known for their mix of classic and modern house elements, have energized dance floors across Australia and beyond. He’s supported major acts like Carl Cox, Louie Vega, and Todd Terry.
Ngaiire, a celebrated artist in her own right, has gained recognition for her R&B and neo-soul fusion. Her albums have earned critical acclaim and award nominations, and she’s collaborated with artists such as Sufjan Stevens and Flume.
As a prominent figure in Sydney’s nightlife, Azzo regularly performs at Club Above at Ivy and has appeared at major events like Defected NYE and the upcoming Glitterbox Australasia tour. His 2023 highlights include closing the Sydney Mardi Gras Party and a European tour, with a standout performance at Amsterdam Pride.
What inspired you to create “Perfect Love,” and how did the collaboration with Ngaiire come about?
“Perfect Love” was already in the works when I met Ngaiire at a mate’s BBQ late last year. After many drinks, we shared an intimate moment, playing each other our draft tracks. A few months later, after working up the courage, I asked her to record with me. Luckily, she said yes, and the rest is history!
Can you share more about the process of blending your house music style with Ngaiire’s soulful vocals?
It was actually effortless. Ngaiire’s soulful, emotive vocals were perfect for a house track and blended seamlessly with my style to create something that I think is truly special.
How does “Perfect Love” reflect your vision of house music and its community-driven roots?
For me, “Perfect Love” reflects the hope, freedom, and unity that permeate the genre. As the name suggests, house music is all about community and coming together.
What elements of the golden era of house music have influenced your sound and approach as a DJ and producer?
The driving beats, infectious rhythms, soulful vocals, and meaningful lyrics. It’s all very considered while still feeling raw and organic.
How has your experience performing at iconic events like Sydney Mardi Gras and Amsterdam Pride shaped your music and performances?
Sharing the music I love with so many people and having it be so well received feels surreal. I focus on matching the high energy and delivering something unexpected yet true to my sound. For example, the crowd might not realize they want to hear a Mark Knight remix of “Strings of Life,” but seeing their reaction when they do and love it means so much.
How has your residency at Club Above at Ivy influenced your career and music style?
It’s been a huge part of my journey. Playing pure house music to a young crowd at that scale is pretty rare in Sydney, so I’m really thankful for it.
What was it like to support legends such as Carl Cox, Louie Vega, and Todd Terry, and how have these experiences impacted your musical journey?
It’s been an absolute dream. I’ve idolized these artists for as long as I can remember, even seeing Carl Cox at Burning Man in 2017. They’re part of the reason I do what I do. It’s beyond inspiring and pushes me to elevate my craft and carve out my own sound.
How do you balance blending classic and contemporary house sounds in your sets and productions?
My goal is to honor the timeless energy of the genre while infusing contemporary elements, ultimately bringing something new to the table that resonates with audiences in a way that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
Looking ahead, what are your plans for future collaborations and releases following the debut of “Perfect Love”?
A remix of “Perfect Love” by Australian music royalty will be out soon. I’m also back in the studio, tinkering away. I’m really lucky to have so many talented artists and vocalists as friends. And who knows, maybe I’ll meet another amazing artist at a BBQ soon who’ll help shape my path again.
Perfect Love is out now