Music Spot: John Lavido – Hold Me (feat. ELY)

Each month we shine the spotlight on one SoundGym member by reviewing one of their tracks for our Music Spot feature. This month we feature @John Lavido ; an up-and-coming Australian producer and DJ.  He has released a steady stream of EDM over 2016 and 2017, and on ‘Hold Me’ he collaborates with a fellow Australian, Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Ellie McIntyre; aka ELY.

McIntyre’s delicate vocals inject a nice depth of emotion into this track, complementing and counterpointing the crisp production. The track builds incessantly from simple piano chords up to a satisfying drop that manages to hold on to some of the chilled atmosphere of the opening, while still packing a punch.

Tracks like this stand or fall on the drop, and here the hook is undeniable, ably supported by Moroder-esque synths and a pumping rhythm section. Those same synths get their own moment in the limelight during the breakdown, which takes the track to a slightly unexpected, and therefore welcome, space.

Lavido certainly seems to have some production chops, but it’s his ear for a melody that sets him apart with this track, and that may be what will help him to stand out in the crowd. ELY adds a welcome dose of emotion here too – and the collaboration seems a productive one as she also features on his brand new track, War. We’re looking forward to hearing what they come up with next.

John is currently engaged in an interesting project in which he lets fans inside his creative process; opening up about how he makes music on a monthly basis. You can follow his journey on his website.