Credits for cover photo: Will Vance
Here are 30 producers/artists/djs that built up an incredible amount of momentum in 2023 and are undoubtedly the ones to watch throughout 2024 and beyond at Cafe De Anatolia.
In the enchanting realm where timeless melodies blend seamlessly with cultural tapestries, Cafe De Anatolia has emerged as a beacon of musical diversity, captivating audiences worldwide with its fusion of electronic beats and traditional sounds. As we embark on a rhythmic odyssey through the rich tapestry of global music, CDAMag proudly presents an exploration into the Top 30 Cafe De Anatolia artists who have been instrumental in shaping this unique sonic journey.
In this curated list, we’ll traverse the diverse landscapes of ambient, ethnic, and deep house genres, each artist contributing their distinctive flavor to the ever-evolving soundscape of Cafe De Anatolia. From established maestros whose names echo through the halls of electronic music to rising stars whose innovative beats are reshaping the industry, our exploration promises to be a melodic journey like no other.
Embark on the sonic adventure as we reveal the Top 30 Cafe De Anatolia ARTISTS for 2023:
RIALIANS ON EARTH
Rialians On Earth, a seasoned DJ, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, has been a stalwart presence in the music scene for an extended period. His genre-defying music, blending ethnic-inspired melodies, spans organic house, downtempo, techno, and house. Notably featured on stations such as Ibiza Global Radio, BBC Introducing, Eilo, and RTÉ 2fm, Rialians On Earth gained acclaim for his 2020 unofficial remix of “Glue” by Bicep. In 2017, he co-founded Cafe De Anatolia with Monika Ilieva and Billy Esteban, a record label rooted in familial inspiration, cultural traditions, and the fusion of electronic and world music. Beyond music, the label embodies a celebration of rituals, united cultures, and the mystic blend of Orient and Occident.
BILLY ESTEBAN
Billy Esteban, a prolific Multi-Instrumentalist, DJ, and Producer, boasts over a decade of influential contributions to the music scene. Renowned for his seven successful solo albums, he is a trailblazer in the Organic House & Downtempo genre, infusing beautiful oriental and ethnic melodies into his compositions. Billy’s distinctive sound is marked using a specially crafted “tambura,” creating an artist signature sought by many. Music, for him, is a sanctuary—a constant source of peace where stories unfold effortlessly through melodies. Rising to fame on YouTube, Billy’s mixes surpassed 1 billion views, laying the foundation for the incredible journey of Cafe De Anatolia. Co-founded in 2017 with his family (Rialians On Earth and Monika Ilieva), the record label blends cultural traditions with electronic music, becoming a launching pad for numerous artists’ careers. Billy Esteban’s music, featured in over 10,000 compilations and played on various radio shows, has solidified his place in the Chillout Lounge and House Music scene, earning acclaim from top-tier music magazines.
TEBRA
Over the past two decades, Tebra has dedicated himself to refining a unique and unforgettable signature sound in his music production and DJing career. With an extensive discography featuring original releases and solid remixes for renowned labels, Tebra has garnered critical acclaim in the organic, Afro, and progressive house genres. His music stands as the epitome of honest emotional sound exploration, representing the most genuine expression of his artistic journey. As a live performer, Tebra’s progress is deeply rooted in the authenticity of his creative process, committed to generating unexpected sounds that consistently communicate, engage, and move audiences.
OSCAR SHARM
Renowned as a dynamic and professional DJ, Oscar Sharm is a vibrant force in the world of House Music production. With an uncanny ability to elevate any venue with his energetic and groovy beats, Oscar stands out for his unique DJing style. His sets, featuring exclusive tracks and exceptional mixing skills, showcase his prowess and excellent communication with the audience. What truly distinguishes him is his seamless fusion of diverse music styles, setting him apart in the realm of electronic music.
DIM ANGELO
Hailing from Greece, Dim Angelo, born in 1987, is a versatile music producer and DJ with a lifelong connection to music. Starting with musical instruments like the guitar and piano, Dim Angelo later delved into DJing, introducing innovative sounds to his audience. His DJ career kicked off in 2005 at local clubs, eventually taking him to renowned venues worldwide, including America, Dubai, and Cyprus. With a growing international fan base, Dim Angelo is not only a DJ but also a music director and radio producer at Alpha Radio 96.5 FM. In 2014, he ventured into music production, a passion that captivated him entirely. Dim Angelo’s dream and ambition revolve around expressing his emotions and connecting with his audience through the powerful medium of music.
NIKKO SUNSET
In the late nineties, Nikko Sunset, alongside fellow DJs, played a pivotal role in advancing house and electronic music on web and radio platforms. This influential period shaped his current style, characterized by a sought-after feel-good sound and a blend of matured piano, stabs, vocals, intelligent beats, and breaks. Transitioning into the new millennium, Nikko Sunset expanded into event organization through Noevo management, hosting exclusive gatherings with headline acts and renowned DJ/Producers. Nikko’s music continually evolves, delivering exciting and upbeat journeys that captivate dance floors worldwide. A globe-trotting, club-packing, beat-dropping DJ? Absolutely. But this is just the beginning of Nikos Hayward’s ongoing story—one that is still being written.
BEARD2BEARD
Meet the dynamic musical duo Beard2Beard, a collaboration between Sham.man and DARNO. Together, they seamlessly fuse different genres, marrying traditional oriental music with a modern electronic twist. Their collaboration thrives as they consistently produce tracks spanning genres such as Downtempo, Organic House, Oriental House, Progressive House, Indie Dance, Tech House, Techno, and Melodic Techno.
Sham.man, a key figure in the event scene, wears multiple hats as a promoter, booker, and event manager. Sham.man is a gifted musician whose sound ranges from electronica downtempo to uplifting melodic house. His unique music incorporates roots from the Levant region, resulting in a fresh and exciting oriental fusion.
DARNO, of Armenian nationality, is a versatile artist—music producer, DJ, and folk singer. DARNO’s music is a bold and modern take on traditional and folk sounds. Their collective journey as Beard2Beard promises a rich tapestry of sonic exploration, bridging the gap between the old and the new in the world of electronic music.
TIGRAN
Originally hailing from Moscow and rooted in Armenian heritage, Tigran now calls Budapest, Hungary, his home. Tigran ia s DJ and producer, curating two distinct event series in Budapest: MANTRA with D.Devenyi and EARGASM with Daniel Weirdo. While MANTRA explores the realms of Downtempo, Organic, and Afrohouse, EARGASM takes audiences on a journey from deep house to techno, never surpassing 124 bpm. In his music production endeavors, Tigran delves into the realms of Organic, Downtempo, Afro, and deeper-melodic sounds. His creations, characterized by dreamy and rolling tones, reflect a unique style that leans away from conventional “happy” vibes. As an Armenian, Tigran draws inspiration from his roots, incorporating instruments like the duduk and piano, which he passionately plays as a hobby.
JAD HALAL
Boasting chart-topping originals and releases, Jad Halal stands as a live artist, DJ, and music producer whose unique sound has traversed the globe. Fusing cultures through music, he crafts an ear-pleasing array of oriental-influenced electronic, deep house, organic house, afro, and progressive house, seamlessly transitioning to ethnic downtempo. With over 20 million streams and 100,000 Spotify monthly listeners, Jad has left an indelible mark on the music landscape. Performing live sets across the Middle East and worldwide, Djing on global stages, and holding residencies in top-notch clubs, Jad Halal is undeniably a distinctive name in the music scene.
KHAIKHAN
Meet M. Kayhan Yakarlar, also known as Khaikhan – a versatile figure in the music realm serving as a music director, resident DJ, and artistic director. His expansive musical spectrum encompasses everything from elegant lounge tunes to uplifting house sets, seamlessly blending Ethnic, Spiritual, World, Ambient, and Electronic sounds. Notably, DJ KhaiKhan showcases his creativity through self-produced releases on his record label, Rist Records and ofcourse Cafe De Anatolia (CDA Records).
MOMO RYUK
Emerging from the vibrant 1980s music scene, Momo Ryuk’s journey is a diverse tapestry woven with influences ranging from Blues, Disco, Funk, and Chicago House to the soulful rhythms of 90s Hip Hop. Momo’s passion for orchestrating desert events is evident, creating a niche for ardent electronic music lovers with unforgettable experiences amidst the dunes. What truly distinguishes Momo is his exceptional adaptability to his audience. Thriving on connecting with listeners, he has crafted a signature approach in the music world. Momo’s genuine and versatile style is the driving force behind his relentless motivation.
KARNO B
Karno B is a Lebanese Armenian music producer making waves from the vibrant city of Beirut, Lebanon. With a remarkable career spanning nearly two decades collaborating with various artists, Karno B recently embarked on a solo journey as an electronic and ethnic music producer. Karno B has ventured into solo releases, presenting 9 tracks to date, with 8 of them in collaboration with CDA. His latest creation, “Gora,” marks his debut in the Afro House genre. Beyond his prowess as a musician, Karno B is the driving force behind a high-end recording, mixing, and mastering studio in Beirut. This state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the finest analog gear, monitoring systems, and cutting-edge digital technology, solidifying Karno B’s position at the forefront of the music production scene.
ANIS KAREK
Anis Karek, the Dj producer from Algeria, has been enthralling audiences with his exceptional fusion of Oriental melodies and Electronic music. His noteworthy collaboration with Cafe De Anatolia commenced with the hit track “Il Mattino,” unveiling a captivating blend to the world. Acknowledged for preserving cultural roots while infusing the vigor of electronic music, Anis Karek is making a significant impact on the global EDM scene with his distinctive and evocative sounds.
SHADI KARIO
Meet Shadi Kario, an accomplished Organic House Music Producer with a profound passion for curating distinctive sounds during his global travels. Renowned for his exceptional proficiency on the Hangdrum, Bağlama, and Bass Guitar, Shadi utilizes these talents to craft his signature style of music. Embarking on a journey of exploration and cultural immersion, Shadi traversed various countries, collecting a diverse array of musical instruments and samples along the way. Today, Shadi stands out for his captivating sound, seamlessly blending the organic and electronic elements of house music with the rich melodies and rhythms of his cultural heritage and beyond. His music is a testament to the harmonious fusion of global influences, creating an auditory experience that transcends boundaries.
TAMER ELDERINI
Hailing from the vibrant city of Cairo, Egypt, Tamer ElDerini emerges as a DJ, producer, and a burgeoning figure in the electronic music industry. ElDerini’s musical prowess seamlessly blends electronic elements with the smooth grooves of Deep House, crafting a compelling and expressive auditory journey. His passion lies in the realm of electronic music, particularly in the fusion of Ethnic Middle Eastern instruments and vocals. Listeners find themselves captivated by the hypnotic quality of his compositions, transporting them to a realm of pulsating basslines and ethereal melodies.With each song, ElDerini showcases his profound knowledge of the genre, intricately layering sounds that ebb and flow with captivating vitality. For those seeking a musical voyage to another world, Tamer ElDerini’s compelling fusion of Electronic and Deep House is the perfect choice.
DJ ILYA
With over a decade dedicated to refining his sound, Ilya has found his musical home within the resonant tribal rhythms echoing through the depths of the Burning Man playa and the lush jungles of Tulum. Infusing a touch of groovy Indie vibes for added spice, Ilya Mori has carved out a unique sonic niche.
As a resident of Love Machine and Clinic Wednesdays in Los Angeles, Ilya Mori continues to shape his musical journey, bringing his distinctive beats to the vibrant nightlife scene of the city.
GEORGE TORO
George Toro, a native of Thessaloniki, Greece, is an artist fueled by an unwavering passion for music. With a foundation in various instruments, he has honed his skills since a young age, with a special affinity for the piano, which becomes a distinctive element in his productions, leaving a mark with his signature sound. George’s musical palette transcends genre limitations, incorporating arps, legato synths, and rhythmic percussions to craft a diverse canvas. Often traversing the realms of progressive and deep house, his sonic explorations captivate audiences.
VOODOOCHILD
Sofoklis Petridis known as Voodoochild is an an enthusiastic artist born in ’89 and based in Greece. His musical journey began with my first piano note at the age of 8. As a multi-talented musician, composer, producer, and DJ, music is his life. Whether crafting melodies from scratch or spinning tunes on the decks, his love for music resonates in every note and beat. Through his artistic skills and unwavering dedication, he craft unforgettable experiences that transport people to another world!
RØNHÖFF
Born and bred in the vibrant city of Copenhagen, the Danish electronic virtuoso, Rønhöff, mesmerizes with his signature sound in the enchanting realm of downtempo music. Renowned for its unhurried and ambient beats, Rønhöff’s musical tapestry weaves together the ethereal beauty of organic elements with the cutting-edge allure of electronic sounds. The result is an unparalleled and profound auditory journey, where each note and beat crafts an original, immersive, and deeply enriching listening experience.
84 AVENUE
Emerging as a rising star in the French music scene, the versatile 84 Avenue, stands as a multifaceted musician, producer, and DJ. His musical prowess transcends boundaries, effortlessly navigating the realms of electronic, ethnic, and various other genres. In his sonic universe, classic analog synthesizers seamlessly intertwine with meticulously recorded organic instruments, creating a harmonious blend of soundscapes. Regardless of the genre, 84 Avenue’s music is a captivating journey, purposefully designed to transport you to mesmerizing and unexplored realms.
RBØR
RBØR, a compelling musical endeavor crafted by Albanian brothers Ermelajd and Ergi Brahimi, is dedicated to rediscovering the forgotten values within Albanian music and beyond. This captivating project delves deep into the rich heritage of Albanian sounds, infusing them with ethnic vibes from diverse cultures.Inaugurated in 2022 after a decade of honing their craft, RBØR stands out as both DJs and live performers. Their immersive fusion spans Afro House, Organic/Downtempo/House, Folktronica, and Ethnotronica, creating a harmonious and interconnected musical masterpiece. With one brother skillfully manning the CD players and the other generating live sounds through machines, RBØR offers a truly unique auditory experience. Nestled in Tirana, RBØR symbolizes a lifelong pursuit to revive forgotten musical treasures and forge a harmonious resonance that transcends borders.
HAWAZIN
Hawazin, a musical brainchild curated by Omar Hamdan and Maro Hereira, emerges as a captivating fusion of our Arabic oriental cultural musical heritage seamlessly interwoven with electronic house grooves. This innovative concept represents blend of Oriental ethnic melodies and electronic beats, with every track and performance adorned by the distinctive sounds of Arabic Oriental instruments.
Omar Hamdan, a versatile musician and producer based in Dubai, UAE, showcases his mastery of multiple instruments, including guitar, oud, bouzouki, qanun, and percussions.
Maro Hereira, hailing from North Morocco, serves as the vocal and singing force, skillfully blending North African styles with the heartful nuances of Spanish/Andalusian music. Together, they craft the unique and enchanting musical landscape that is Hawazin.
RIMBU
RIMBU ia an innovative DJ and producer hailing from the enchanting city of Lausanne, Switzerland. As a purveyor of captivating soundscapes, RIMBU specializes in crafting inspirational journeys that traverse the emotional spectrum, blending hypnotic vocals, ethnic sounds, deep beats, and a deliberate slow tempo.
More than just a musical architect, RIMBU assumes the role of a storyteller, weaving narratives that transcend cultural boundaries and venture beyond borders. Each composition serves as a sonic tapestry, inviting listeners to embark on a transformative adventure. The melodic exploration is not just about the beats; it’s an immersive experience that unravels the intricacies of emotion and cultural richness.
SANDER COSTANZI
A prominent figure in the Roman nightlife scene, this DJ-producer has been a stalwart presence for over 25 years. Not confined to the capital’s best clubs, his influence extends across the entire Italian territory. His musical journey has taken him to renowned Ibiza hotspots like Hi Ibiza, Privilege, Bora Bora, Tantra, and Benimussa Park.
In a close collaboration with Cafe De Anatolia, this seasoned artist has been a constant force since 2013. The dawn of a new project emerged in 2013 when he joined forces with Paggi, giving rise to the dynamic duo: Paggi & Costanzi. Rooted deeply in the world of House Music, their combined experience spans numerous years, making them celebrated figures individually and cherished by their loyal fan base.
GIUSEPPE DELLA PIA AKA DJ BRAHMS
Giuseppe Della Pia, widely known as Dj Brahms, is an illustrious Italian DJ specializing in world music. His journey embarked on the path of World Music DJing in the vibrant year of 1981, marking the genesis of a career deeply rooted in diverse global sounds. Over the decades, he has graced the stages of numerous international festivals, leaving an indelible mark in genres ranging from World Music to Ambient and Chill Out. The year 2017 witnessed a significant evolution in Dj Brahms’ artistic endeavors as he assumed the roles of DJ, composer, and compiler at Cafe De Anatolia. This record company has established itself as a beacon in the realm of Oriental Chill and Deep music. Dj Brahms’ contributions to Cafe De Anatolia extend beyond the turntables, resonating in his original compositions and meticulously curated compilations. With a dedication to exploring the depths of global soundscapes, he continues to enchant audiences worldwide and remains an influential figure in the realm of World Music.
MANUEL DEFIL
Manuel Defil, producer and DJ, is the creative force behind ‘The Sound of Prophet. His journey commenced as an organizer of ethnic music events, predominantly in his hometown of Puglia. However, it was only upon relocating to Rome that the perfect synergy between his passion for music and event organizing materialized, giving birth to ‘The Sound of Prophet’—a collective featuring Deephouse and Ethnic Music DJs and artists, with Manuel serving as its principal representative.
GOBI DESERT COLLECTIVE
Introducing Gobi Desert Collective, a dynamic partnership forged by Jens Van der Borght & Sam Van Craenenbroeck, who embarked on their musical journey in 2020. Sam lends his expertise to guitars and bass, while Jens, the master arranger, utilizes Ableton to weave together intricate compositions, infusing drums and FX into the mix. The year 2022 marked their introduction to Cafe De Anatolia, featuring a remix from Rialians On Earth. A follow-up, “Open Road,” emerged in 2023, swiftly becoming their most celebrated track on both individual and CDA profiles. 2023 also saw them venture into the world of DJing, captivating audiences around the globe.
JERRY SPOON
Jerry Spoon, a Swiss electronic music maestro, is not just a sound engineer and the proprietor of Studio Voisier but a versatile producer whose sonic horizons span dark, melodic progressive house to ambient downtempo/ketapop, maintaining a danceable tempo between 100 to 128 BPM. His musical roots trace back to playing guitar at the age of nine, a passion that has fueled his enthusiastic musical journey. After a decade in the rock business, Jerry Spoon transitioned to electronic music in 2015, evolving from an experimental style to a self-determined sound that resonates with audiences. With over a decade of experience and numerous solo projects, Jerry Spoon’s musical evolution can be tracked on major social media platforms.
ORKIDZ
ORKIDZ (Issam J) is a versatile producer, musician, and DJ whose music reflects his multicultural background and life experiences as a biologist and avid traveler. Blending tribal, organic, and electronic elements, his style spans genres like Organic House Downtempo, Tribal/Afro House, Deep House, and beyond. With performances as a DJ and live act, ORKIDZ has released music on renowned labels such as Sol Selectas, Cosmic Awakenings, Cafe De Anatolia, and more. Continuously evolving, his music aims to lead listeners on fresh and exhilarating musical and spiritual journeys.
SAID MRAD
SAID MRAD is not just a music enthusiast; he breathes, sleeps, and devours music. Hailing from Lebanon, his musical journey traces back to 1990 when he stepped into the scene as a DJ, gracing the decks of renowned nightclubs like PRIVÉ, JET SET, OPERA, and GOTHA. Over the years, Said has cultivated an impressive musical intuition, earning him the title of “One of the Best DJs and the Guru of Electronic Dance Music from the Middle East Region.” His passion and expertise have solidified his reputation, making him a respected figure in the vibrant world of music.