Rising star: Max Coletto

Max Coletto is a DJ/producer hailing from Chicago and now based in Southern California, has been making waves in the underground music scene with his deep cuts, original productions, and versatile skills behind the decks. Last month, we premiered his track, Smoke Point, on the Rhizome Forms label and a deeper delve into his sound unearthed a producer who we recommend you keep a firm eye out for.

Influenced by both his Chicago roots and the diverse California soundscape, Max blends the richness of his Midwestern upbringing with the global perspective he gained while living on the West Coast. His sets, fueled by the stripped-back house and techno flavors of Eastern Europe, showcase his refined musical taste, particularly after B2B sessions with artists like Nu Zau and Crihan. Having already left a mark at notable events like YouKnowWhat! (LA) and Borderless Project (LA), Max continues to differentiate himself through a blend of consistency and unpredictability, offering a sound that is uniquely his. Below, Max shares insights on his journey, influences, and future plans. Max also did an exceptional mix for us, which you can listen to below.

‍Growing up in both Chicago and California, how have those cities influenced your sound and style as a DJ and producer?

Spending my childhood years in Chicago certainly shaped my personality and cultural views. I believe my taste and musical interests are a result of influences I discovered by navigating my adult years in California, with access to people and musical outlets from all over the world.

What role do your Chicago roots play in shaping your musical identity, especially with Chicago being a historic hub for house music?

Chicago is the birthplace of house music, so growing up there made me naturally aware of the genre's legacy. It gave me a deep appreciation for the roots of electronic music, even though my style has evolved by blending those origins with global influences.

What initially drew you to house music, and specifically to 90s house during your teenage years?

I think it was the mysteriousness that attracted me at first. I remember when I first heard Mr. G’s "Billares Londres La Rum" as a teenager—it took some time for the sound to sink in. Without much of a reference point, the music felt like a personal discovery, something I didn’t share with many people except a few older friends who introduced me to it. The mystery kept me coming back, and it became a personal quest to understand more about it.

Your track "Smoke Point" on the Rhizome Forms label was awesome! Can you tell us how that track came to be? What inspired its creation?

Thank you! I’m really happy with how "Smoke Point" turned out. The track came together during a period when I was creating a lot of music at home. I tend to do my best work in the early morning before the sun comes up, sketching out ideas and letting them sit with me throughout the day. This one stood out to me because of the way the atmospheric elements all came together, and I felt certain it was something I wanted to release.

Can you walk us through the process of constructing "Smoke Point"? What were some of the key elements or ideas you wanted to incorporate?

The process was pretty instinctive. I worked quickly, getting down the core elements—basslines, atmospheres—and letting the track evolve naturally. The atmospheric feel was important to me, and I wanted to make sure that stood strong throughout.

How did your connection with Rhizome Forms come about, and what drew you to release "Smoke Point" with them?

Benjamin, one of the label’s co-owners, reached out to me initially. We hit it off, and after sharing some of my work, things fell into place for the EP. Benjamin and his partner Kristjian are great guys, and I see Benjamin around in LA often—we always have good conversations about music and the scene.

What has the reception been like for "Smoke Point"? Have there been any unexpected reactions or support from notable DJs or producers?

The reception has been really positive! There’s always a sense of validation when someone I respect shows support for my work, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive that from a few notable names in the scene.

What DJs, parties, or experiences have influenced your sound the most?

Attending S.A.S.H. in Sydney when I was twenty was a turning point. I walked into the main room overlooking Sydney Harbor late at night, and I was completely awestruck by the music. It made me realize there’s a whole elevated experience to clubbing—where it’s just about listening and connecting with the sound. That event really changed my view of what a party could be and how music could shape it.

Do you feel you make music for yourself or for others? Is this something you’ve thought about before?

I make music for myself. What I produce is always a reflection of my experiences and emotions. If other people connect with it, it’s a bonus. Early on, I decided I’d only release music that I genuinely liked. If people enjoy it, it validates the emotion I’ve put into it.

Eastern Europe has a strong influence on your sound—what aspects of the region’s music scene appeal to you most? Is it somewhere you’ve visited? Or do you have plans to?

Yes it has…Traveling to Bucharest and Mamaia for Sunwaves in April 2023 made a lasting impression on me. The festival of course was very eye opening, and provided a lot of inspiration. I remember being on a roll in the studio for some time afterwards. I also bought a new record bag there, and filled it to the brim at the festival record shop.

I am planning to return to Romania, and do some more exploring in other countries, making friends, and chasing quality music. It’s also enjoyable to remotely connect with producers and DJs from these countries easily and exchange music, share thoughts etc. This will make traveling that much more enjoyable when the time comes!

What’s your approach when you’re working on new productions—do you draw from your DJ sets or explore different creative processes?

I would say that I find some inspiration in the records that I’m digging to play out, but ultimately my inspiration comes from what I’m feeling at the moment, or my current environment. Whether I’m at home, or just came back from staying with a friend in another city, etc. I am most inspired when I have a consistent change of scenery. Also when I’m able to surf consistently, my creative output is elevated, and my work is better quality… 

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What’s one track you’ve recently discovered that you can’t stop playing?

I have to say Mr. G - Back Pain. This is a standout for me among his impressive discography, and somehow I had not discovered this track until a few months ago.

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How do you approach building a set, and what do you aim to communicate or evoke through your music selection?

I choose tracks that I think will create a great experience for the party but also reveal something about me. If there’s a subtle connection to my musical journey, like a sample that resonates with me, I’ll play it every time. Those personal touches never leave my record bag.

What has been the most memorable moment of your DJ career so far, and what made it stand out to you?

There have been a couple of highlights. Playing under the 6th Street Bridge in LA with Nu Zau last November was incredible. I opened for four hours, then went B2B with him until 9 AM. Another standout was a private party in Baja California—set in this beautifully designed underground pit, with friends dancing into the afternoon. The vibes were unforgettable.

With the underground scene evolving rapidly, where do you see the California underground heading in the next few years, and what role do you hope to play in it?

I see a steady growth from many talented producers and DJs in LA. It’s a special time, with people driven by a passion to share their music. I hope to continue supporting and collaborating with those I admire in the scene. I also help run Chapter One Records in downtown LA, which has been a great outlet for local artists. I’m excited to see what we can build from here.

Looking ahead, what are your main goals for the next few years in terms of both your productions and your contributions to the underground music scene?

I plan to keep releasing music and being selective about what I put out. I’ve been making a lot of ambient tracks lately, which I’ve been sharing on Bandcamp. Consistency is key for me, and I want to keep supporting my friends as they smash their own goals. Watching LA’s scene grow into something globally respected is what drives me.

Keep up with Max Coletto on Instagram,  Bandcamp and Soundcloud

Listen to Max Coletto’s Nightclubber mix below

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