Hank Harrison on A&R, DJing, and the Evolution of Underground Music
Hank Harrison
This week, The Groove Palace welcomes Hank Harrison, an Austin-based DJ and A&R with a deep connection to the underground. As a tastemaker behind Short Circuit, Illustrate, and Woodlands, Hank has helped shape the sound of cutting-edge minimal and tech house. Now, he steps up with an exclusive mix that embodies his signature rolling, hypnotic grooves—stream it now on The Groove Palace SoundCloud.
Hailing from Austin, Hank Harrison is more than just a DJ—he’s a tastemaker shaping the underground scene. As an A&R for Short Circuit, Illustrate, and Woodlands, his ear for quality records extends beyond the decks, helping push forward some of the most exciting minimal tech and rolling tech house artists in the game. Now, he steps into The Groove Palace with an exclusive mix that embodies his signature style—hypnotic, groove-driven, and meticulously curated.
From the Booth to the Boardroom: Curating the Sound of the Underground
Hank’s journey into electronic music wasn’t just about playing records—it was about finding, refining, and pushing a sound. His work as an A&R for Jeff Sorkowitz’s Short Circuit, Anatta’s Illustrate, and Iglesias’s Woodlands has given him an inside look at how labels craft and develop artists, making him a key figure in today’s underground house and techno landscape.
“A&R isn’t just signing tracks—it’s about building a sound, a movement, a scene.”
With a sharp focus on percussive minimal and rolling tech house, Hank has helped introduce listeners to the groove-heavy records that work equally well in late-night warehouses and peak-time clubs.
A Journey Through Sound: From France to the Booth
Hank’s path to electronic music is as layered as his DJ sets. Born in Cleveland, he spent seven years living in France before moving to Texas, where he was immersed in a diverse range of musical influences. Growing up, he explored everything from French rap and metalcore to ambient and indie, always drawn to intricate, textured sounds.
His first exposure to electronic music came during the late 2000s EDM boom, but rather than gravitating toward big-room trends, he found himself captivated by liquid drum & bass, trance, and the deeper, more melodic side of dance music. This early exposure laid the foundation for his eventual love of underground house and techno, where he found a space that resonated with his analytical approach to music and passion for curation.
Refining a Signature Sound
Hank’s DJ sets are a reflection of his meticulous approach to selection. Rolling basslines, crisp percussion, hypnotic textures, and intricate drum programming define his sound. Drawing influence from artists like Jeff Sorkowitz and Iglesias, his sets are a seamless blend of minimal tech and underground tech house, crafted for true dance music lovers.
“Minimal is all about the details. The smallest groove change can make or break a track.”
Beyond DJing, Hank has also stepped into production, taking his knowledge from A&R work and curating records to craft his own club-ready cuts. As he refines his own sound, his focus remains on making music that resonates on dancefloors worldwide.
The Future: Label Work, Touring & Pushing the Underground Forward
Looking ahead, Hank’s focus is set on expanding Short Circuit’s impact, helping it grow into a premier destination for minimal and rolling tech house records. His plans also include bringing Short Circuit parties to different cities, creating a platform that highlights not only his artists but also his unique approach to the underground scene.
With his sights set on more label showcases, select bookings, and deepening his production catalog, Hank is proving that his influence goes beyond just DJing—it’s about shaping the future of underground music.
Advice for Upcoming DJs & Producers
For those looking to break into the scene, Hank emphasizes patience, authenticity, and passion.
“Do this because you genuinely love the music. If you focus only on chasing bookings, clout, or signing to a specific label, you’ll burn out fast. Instead, put your energy into refining your craft, finding your sound, and staying inspired.”
He also stresses the importance of taking a step back to enjoy music as a listener—whether that means hitting the dancefloor, attending a festival, or discovering new influences outside of house and techno.
“The process is what makes this rewarding. Don’t rush it. The more you immerse yourself in music, the more authentic your artistry will be.”
Exclusive Mix for The Groove Palace
Hank’s mix for The Groove Palace is a journey through underground grooves, featuring a carefully curated selection of hypnotic and rolling minimal tech house tracks. Expect exclusive cuts, unreleased gems, and records that define his approach to DJing and A&R work.
Now streaming on The Groove Palace SoundCloud
With his deep knowledge of the underground scene, label work, and DJing, Hank Harrison is a name to watch. His mix for The Groove Palace is just a taste of what’s to come as he continues to push boundaries and refine his craft. Tune in and experience the sound of an artist who lives and breathes electronic music.