Amsterdam’s RAYZIR continues to sharpen his craft with Guacamolly, a three-track EP landing on The Martinez Brothers’ Cuttin’ Headz. A DJ, producer, and vocalist with a penchant for percussive intensity, RAYZIR has steadily built his profile through releases on Elrow, Nervous, and Do Not Sleep, earning support from heavyweight selectors like Marco Carola, Jamie Jones, Michael Bibi, and Loco Dice.
True to form, Guacamolly threads together acid-dipped basslines, looping vocal mantras, and nimble drum programming—straddling the sweet spot between tech-house propulsion and tribal hypnosis. Across the EP, RAYZIR leans into a raw, body-moving aesthetic, with each track locked into a percussive drive built for peak-time deployment.
With the EP out now, we caught up with him for a chat.
Vocals can sometimes be underutilized in underground electronic music. What inspired you to make them a focal point in your productions and performances?
Growing up in a household rich in soul, R&B, and Latin music, I was always drawn to the storytelling aspect of vocals. After making music for a long time, I wanted to see if I could sing, and this led to releasing my solo R&B EP under my alias Octobertwentyfirst which got picked up by the Bedroom Jams Spotify Editorial. From that moment I knew I had to do more with my voice, which led to getting asked by friends in the industry to do some vocal work. I then did a lot of vocal collabs, which gained my exposure in the scene.
Your music has received support from heavyweights like Loco Dice and Jamie Jones. Do you think co-signs like these still hold the same weight in today’s industry, where grassroots movements and social media can launch careers just as effectively?
Absolutely, co-signs still hold significant weight, especially when they come from artists you respect. At the same time, grassroots movements and social media are changing the game and giving artists new ways to connect with their audience. For me, the support from figures like The Martinez Brothers has been incredibly motivating; it not only boosts visibility but also validates your sound within the industry.
ZIRCLE seems to bridge the gap between music and cultural exploration. Do you think the electronic music scene does enough to highlight diverse voices, or is there still work to be done?
There’s always work to be done. While the scene has come a long way, there’s still a lack of representation, especially when it comes to cultural diversity. ZIRCLE was created to address that gap offering a platform for emerging voices and highlighting different cultural elements within electronic music. We’re trying to break down barriers, support diverse artists, and raise awareness through music, events, and initiatives. The goal is to create more inclusivity, and it’s a process that requires collective effort from both artists and labels.
How do you navigate the fine line between creating tracks that resonate on a dancefloor versus ones that tell a deeper, more personal story?
It’s all about staying authentic to your roots while still engaging the crowd. Dancefloor tracks have their own energy, something that gets people moving and connects them to the rhythm. But at the same time, I like to infuse my personal experiences and cultural influences into my productions. Even when making something for the dancefloor, I want there to be depth whether it’s through percussion, rhythm, or vocals. It’s about finding that balance between the groove and the story behind it.
With the Guacamolly EP, was there a specific moment or experience that shaped the concept or direction of the tracks? Or did it evolve naturally in the studio?
The direction for Guacamolly evolved very naturally. I was inspired by the rhythms I grew up with in those percussion-heavy genres from salsa, bachata, and Surinamese music. I wanted to combine those elements with the acid and tech house sounds I love, creating something that felt familiar yet fresh. The music really shaped itself as I worked, and it was all about capturing that vibrant energy and translating it into a sound that resonates with a wide audience, while still staying true to my cultural roots.
The Martinez Brothers have a strong identity tied to their label, Cuttin’ Headz. What drew you to release Guacamolly with them, and how does it align with your vision as an artist?
Cuttin’ Headz was a perfect fit for me, especially with its focus on groove-heavy, percussion driven house music. I always loved the whole vibe of that label since that resonates with my roots. Their label reflects a sense of authenticity whilst being underground. When I finished that track, I immediately knew I had to send it their way.
With AI and new technologies reshaping how music is made, do you see these tools as a threat to electronic music’s soul or as an opportunity for deeper experimentation?
I see new technologies as an opportunity, not a threat. Tools like AI can open doors to creative experimentation and innovation. They can push the boundaries of sound design, helping artists discover new textures and ways of producing music. That being said, it’s important to remember that technology is just a tool. The soul of the music still comes from the artist, and it’s up to us to maintain that human touch while using these tools to experiment. Authenticity always wins!
Your performances are known for their energy and versatility. How do you prepare differently for an intimate venue like Thuishaven versus a global stage like Elrow?
Each venue and crowd is different, and I love the challenge of adapting my set to the vibe of the space. In a more intimate venue like Thuishaven, I can be more experimental and personal with my selection, creating a deep connection with the audience. On a global stage like Elrow, it’s about reading the crowd and creating an experience that’s bigger, more dynamic. Both are fun in their own way.
Dance music has always been about community, but it’s also been critiqued for exclusivity at times. How do you think artists and labels can do more to foster genuine inclusivity in the scene?
Inclusivity starts with mindset. Artists and labels have the power to shape the culture by being intentional about who they support and how they present their events and music. For me, it’s all about breaking down barriers, whether it’s cultural, social, or financial. ZIRCLE is one example of how we’re trying to create a more inclusive space by highlighting diverse voices and providing opportunities for underrepresented artists. Everyone deserves a seat at the table, and it’s on us to make sure that’s the reality.
Streaming platforms have made it easier for producers to gain exposure, but do you think they’ve changed the way people experience and discover electronic music on the dancefloor?
While you can easily find and stream tracks online, there’s still something special about the experience of hearing music live on the dancefloor. The energy of a crowd and the moment of connection are irreplaceable, and streaming platforms can’t fully replicate that experience. I think it’s important to embrace both. Personally I use Spotify’s algorithm to discover new music I bring to the dancefloor. So that’s definitely a win!
Your work with ZIRCLE highlights a more community-focused approach to the industry. How do you balance the demands of a solo career with the collaborative spirit that drives this initiative?
It’s definitely a juggling act, but it’s one that’s worth it. ZIRCLE is something I’m incredibly passionate about, and it aligns with my vision of supporting and empowering artists. Balancing the demands of my solo career with ZIRCLE means I have to be intentional with my time and energy. I approach both with the same level of dedication and focus, ensuring that I’m giving back to the community while continuing to grow as an artist.
What can we expect from RAYZIR in 2025?
2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year. I’m kicking it off with the release of my solo EP on Cuttin’ Headz, which I’m really excited about. There’s also a lot happening with ZIRCLE, from growing the brand to launching new initiatives like our clothing line, which ties back to our cultural roots. It’s going to be a year of growth, both musically and personally, and I’m excited to keep pushing boundaries and connecting with my audience in new ways!
RAYZIR – Guacamolly is out now on Cuttin Headz