SLAMM: Miami's Tech House Duo Redefining Underground Sound
This week, The Groove Palace proudly features Slamm, the Miami-based DJ and producer duo composed of Carlos, known as Mama, and Mati. Known for their dark, bass-heavy tech house sound, Slamm is quickly gaining recognition with their raw, powerful beats that embody Miami’s underground vibe. With major support from notable figures like Chase West and Beltran, the duo has solidified themselves as rising forces in the tech house scene.
A Journey into Electronic Music
Both members of Slamm discovered electronic music at a young age, with Carlos being introduced to Skrillex and Mati drawn in by Deadmau5. Despite beginning on different paths, they both found themselves captivated by house music and its influence in Miami’s club scene. “It was all about the energy and vibe,” says Mati, recalling his early experiences with live electronic performances.
The Formation of SLAMM
Their collaboration began by chance at an afterparty in Chicago, where mutual friends connected them. As they started spinning tracks together, they quickly realized their synergy. “We just clicked,” Carlos explains, “and knew there was something special.” Their first collaborative track, "Front Left," marked the beginning of Slamm, and from there, they continued building a repertoire of unique tracks and refining their style.
Inspiration and Process
Slamm draws on a range of influences from both mainstream and underground scenes. Their music reflects inspiration from artists like Beltran and the Miami house scene itself. Mati describes their creative sessions as “fluid,” with each member bringing new sounds and ideas to the table. “Sometimes it’s just a sound or vibe we heard, and we build around that,” says Carlos, emphasizing their open-minded approach to music production.
Mentorship and Key Moments
Chase West has been a pivotal mentor for Slamm, offering guidance on both production techniques and navigating the industry. Carlos recalls the first time West played one of their tracks live: “That was a full-circle moment.” Experiences like these, combined with recent performances alongside Beltran, have fueled their drive and confidence. “When you see thousands of people vibing to your track, it’s surreal and motivating,” adds Mati.
Future Goals
For SLAMM, their journey is just getting started, and their ambitions reflect their dedication to the craft and community of house music. One of their biggest goals is to perform at Chicago’s ARC Music Festival—a fitting stage for two artists who both lived in the city where house music was born and who now channel its history and energy into every set. The duo’s connection to Chicago and the festival scene drives them to reach new heights and establish themselves as key figures in the underground.
SLAMM also dreams of getting their tracks signed to Solid Grooves, a renowned label that has influenced their sound and goals. They look up to Solid Grooves’ label boss, Michael Bibi, as a key tastemaker, and having their tracks played by him would be a milestone. Recently, Bibi responded to a tweet from SLAMM where they shared their goals, a rare acknowledgment that’s given the duo a huge confidence boost. “Having Bibi recognize us and interact with our goals—especially since he rarely engages like that—was massive,” they shared. “It’s the fuel we need to keep pushing forward.”
Words of Wisdom for Emerging DJs
As Slamm continues their rise, they offer advice to new DJs: “Don’t try to sound like others—find your own lane and stay true to it,” Carlos advises. Mati emphasizes the importance of networking and being genuine, noting, “People will remember you not just for your music but for who you are.”
Experience SLAMM’s Exclusive Mix
Dive into Slamm’s exclusive mix on The Groove Palace SoundCloud, showcasing their signature blend of dark, underground tech house with dynamic basslines and intense rhythms. Their mix takes listeners on a journey through their influences and innovative style, reflecting the bold energy that defines Miami’s underground sound.
Stay connected with Slamm and experience the future of Miami’s tech house scene. Tune in to The Groove Palace SoundCloud for their exclusive mix and follow their journey as they continue to break boundaries and shape the underground scene.