Fresko: Blending Latin Roots with Minimal Tech Brilliance
Fresko
This week, The Groove Palace is thrilled to spotlight Fresko, a Miami-based DJ and producer with roots in Trujillo, Peru. Drawing from his family’s musical influence and inspired by the underground’s dynamic soundscapes, Fresko blends Latin percussion and minimal tech house into a style that’s uniquely his own.
With performances across Miami’s top venues and international sets in Peru, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles, Fresko has built a reputation for delivering intricate rhythms and grooves that captivate. His exclusive mix for The Groove Palace SoundCloud is a testament to his artistry, combining percussive beats with a modern underground edge. Don’t miss this immersive experience—available now.
This week, The Groove Palace shines a spotlight on Fresko, a Miami-based DJ and producer who is crafting a unique sound influenced by his Latin roots and a passion for minimal and deep tech. Originally from Trujillo, Peru, Fresko moved to Miami at the age of five, where he was immersed in a household filled with music. “My father and mother loved Latin percussion—my dad played bongos and congas,” Fresko recalls. That musical upbringing, combined with his exposure to Miami’s vibrant underground scene, planted the seeds for his career in electronic music.
A Journey from High School Experimentation to the Club Scene
Fresko’s journey into DJing began in high school, where he and a friend started experimenting on a small DJ controller. “We didn’t know what we were doing at first, but we’d spend hours going back-to-back,” he shares. After graduating, he bought his own gear and dove headfirst into learning the craft, mixing in his room for hours on end.
His first experiences in the booth started with playing reggaeton in Miami clubs, but he soon realized his true passion lay in house music. “I had the passion for electronic music, so I kind of ditched the Latin scene and went full send on house,” Fresko explains. This dedication helped him land one of his earliest bookings at the iconic Treehouse Miami, where he stepped into the underground scene.
Shaping a Unique Sound
Fresko’s sound is deeply rooted in his Latin heritage but also incorporates the minimalist textures of European deep tech and Dutch house. “I like to think of my sound as a Latin influence mixed with minimal tech. I don’t want to do too much of one thing, so I try to balance them,” he says. This sonic duality is evident in his sets, which seamlessly blend percussive grooves, minimal rhythms, and an occasional nod to the Dutch and UK underground.
Citing artists like Marco Carola, Franky Rizardo, and the PIV label as inspirations, Fresko has been refining his sound to reflect the diverse influences that have shaped his journey. “Franky Rizardo is definitely a big inspiration for me,” he shares. “He mixes everything so well—minimal tech, deep house, a little Latin—and he does it with such precision.”
Standout Moments and International Reach
Over the years, Fresko has played at top venues across Miami, including Treehouse, 1-800-Lucky, and other underground spots. But his performances have also taken him beyond the city limits, with gigs in Vegas, Los Angeles, and his hometown of Trujillo, Peru.
Reflecting on his set in Peru, Fresko says, “It was at an afterparty event in my home city. I was there for a family wedding and thought, why not reach out to play? It was such a cool experience to perform where I’m from.” His performances in LA and Vegas came through collaborations with Intention Records, where he played both showcases and afterparties, sharing the stage with artists like Gabriria Rojas and Tokyo T.
Goals for 2025: A Year of Creation
Looking ahead, Fresko’s vision for 2025 revolves around expanding his creative output. “I was able to cook up a lot in 2024, so this year, it’s all about getting those releases out,” he explains. With plans to drop multiple tracks, including a contribution to a Miami Music Week compilation featuring other local DJs, Fresko is gearing up for a prolific year. Beyond simply releasing music, he’s committed to crafting fresh ideas and refining his sound, saying, “Every little second I get, I try to open up my laptop. I’m constantly adding stuff, taking notes, and making sure I’m staying locked in.”
While his priority lies in releasing music, Fresko is also open to exploring new opportunities to grow his presence. His methodical and focused approach to production highlights a strong dedication to his craft, making him a standout artist to watch in 2025.
Words of Advice for Aspiring DJs and Producers
Fresko’s advice for those starting out in the scene is rooted in patience and commitment. “This takes time. You’ve got to be dedicated and stay in the studio as much as possible,” he emphasizes. He also encourages newcomers to stay organized, whether it’s keeping playlists and flash drives tidy or structuring their time effectively. “Every second counts when you’re learning and creating,” he adds.
As for performance, he stresses the importance of authenticity and energy. “You’ve got to love it, feel it out, and bump it out,” he says. For Fresko, it’s about connecting with the music and the crowd—showing genuine passion on the decks and bringing a unique presence to each set. For him, it’s clear: dedication to the craft and staying true to yourself are the keys to success.