Interview: Federico Scavo

One of Italian house music’s most successful artists makes a welcomed return to our feeds next week as Federico Scavo prepares for the release of his latest single ‘Ilusión’.

The track is a collaborative effort between himself, Roxy, and Roy Paci, and will arrive via AREA 94 Records.

We spoke to Federico to ask him about the new track, what else we might hear from him in the near future, and his thoughts on how clubs have changed since he first started DJing in the early ‘90s.

What have you been up to so far in 2024?

2024 for me, has been a year of rebirth not only in terms of work but also in terms of lifestyle. I have focused more on myself and making less but better quality productions.

You’re about to return to AREA 94 Records for your latest single ‘Ilusión’, how would you describe the track in your own words?

The perfect summer sound; joy, happiness, and lots of sun – with the thought of it being played at clubs in Ibiza.

It features Roxy and Roy Paci, who you’ve also worked with before, how has your relationship developed with those guys?

Roy is an eclectic artist who can do everything, he sings, and he’s an amazing trumpet player. Roxy also has some good ideas when we’re in the studio creating. Each of us gave our input to the project and the result is cool.

Your music has also come via labels like Yellow Productions and Toolroom, where else might we expect to see you release in the coming months?

I have a lot of tracks that I’m working on, and I’m trying to merge with artists coming from different genres and take them into my world; I want to do something different to what’s already being done in the music landscape.

What’s your favourite bit of studio gear right now?

I’m not such a technology freak, but I sample a lot in my tracks, and I often record grooves with my voice, so I keep it quite simple.

You’ve been DJing since the early ‘90s – what are some of the biggest changes you’ve noticed in clubs since back then?

There definitely needs to be something different in dance music because lately it’s not very exciting, but I’m sure we’ll return to appreciate club life soon. But over 30 years there are bound to be noticeable changes in clubs as the world and technology have also changed so much too.

And something you miss from those days?

Of course, if I think about the ’90s when I started, I miss going to listen to vinyl records in the record shop and I miss the smell of the record covers especially.

Is there anything else you want to mention before we go?

I hope you listen to my music because it’s made from my heart. I put my utmost effort into every track I make, and unfortunately not all my tracks are understood by the general public – but I always share positive vibes. Thanks for this exchange, it’s always a pleasure.

Federico Scavo – Ilusion is out June 7th on AREA 94 Records.