sauers presents: dance files from the past, vol. 1
Sauers (aka Pedro Gonçalves) is proud to announce his latest project, a four-track edits EP titled Sauers Presents: Dance Files from the Past, Vol. 1, out tomorrow on our own O Sótão Records. In this first volume of the series he dives deep into tracks by some of the most influential names in the scene.
This release offers a glimpse into Sauers' sonic explorations, where he breathes new life into forgotten disco cuts. Originally from Viana do Castelo and currently based in Porto, Sauers' curiosity about edits began with the work of Chicago artists who reimagined disco tracks for the house scene. "As I was collecting disco records," Sauers explains, "I started messing around with them, cutting out specific parts, looping them, and adding effects to create longer edits that felt more like house music."
While his journey began with disco and house, Sauers' musical roots lie elsewhere. "Around 2010, I was deep into electronic music – IDM, industrial techno, ambient – artists like Aphex Twin, Boards of Canada, Burial, and the like," he recalls.
A chance encounter with mixes by legendary DJs Larry Levan and Ron Hardy sparked a shift, however. "It was like everything clicked," he says. "Hardy's raw approach and diverse selections resonated with me, reminding me of the evolving soundscapes emerging in European cities at the time." Fueled by this newfound passion, Sauers embarked on a vinyl-collecting journey, diving into genres like techno, afrobeat, garage, and breakbeat, alongside his ever-growing disco and house collection.
His editing journey began in 2017-2018 with the help of his friend, Arctween (aka Tito Romão). "We edited a couple of tracks, and I was hooked," Sauers says. "I learned the process and started building my own edits." For Sauers, the editing process is intuitive. "I listen to a song and immediately know if I can transform it," he explains. "It's like creating a remix, a re-edit, a new mix – all rolled into one." Finding the right source material is the biggest challenge, Sauers admits. "Once I have the tracks, I cut them up, assemble them in Ableton, and refine the mix until it feels just right."
Dance Files from the Past, Vol. 1 marks the first chapter in Sauers' ongoing exploration of hidden dancefloor gems. This EP promises to transport listeners to a time when creativity and groove took centre stage, serving as a reminder and as a fresh perspective on classic tracks. Available on Bandcamp.
All the rights and praises due to the artists. These edits intend to promote and pay homage, first and foremost, to their work.
All tracks edited and mixed by Pedro Gonçalves
Artwork by Francisco Esp.
Released by O Sótão Records