Welcome to the very first episode of GrooveLight, Wear the Groove’s exclusive interview series where we delve into the lives and careers of electronic music artists around the world. To kick things off, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Federico Puentes, an Argentinian-born DJ and progressive house producer who has made Sydney his home.
Federico’s style is a captivating blend of melodic, deep, and energetic sounds that take the crowd on a musical journey, always leaving them wanting more. A regular in the Sydney scene, Federico has played at various venues and festivals across the city, solidifying his presence in the local electronic music circuit.
Federico has released tracks on several prominent labels, including 3rd Avenue, Future Avenue, Think About Records, AH Digital, Droid9, Balkan Connection South America, Meanwhile Horizons, Sound Avenue, and Consapevole Recordings.
In addition to his impressive production work, Federico hosts his own monthly podcast, Reconnect, on Saturo Sounds Radio from the UK, further establishing his influence in the global progressive house community.
Over the years, Federico has shared the booth with esteemed artists such as Kamilo Sanclemente, Ezequiel Arias, Emi Galvan, DJ Ruby, Lost Desert, Nico Stojan, and Victor Ruiz. His tracks have garnered support from industry heavyweights like Hernán Cattáneo, Nick Warren, Mir Omar, Max Graham, and many others, underscoring his talent and the growing impact of his music.
In this interview, Federico shares his journey, influences, and insights into the thriving Australian electronic music scene.
WTG: Can you briefly introduce yourself and describe your journey into the world of electronic music?
Federico Puentes: Hi, my name is Federico Puentes, and I'm a DJ and music producer from Argentina, now living in Sydney, Australia. I've always loved music and initially began my journey by playing guitar in a metal band in Argentina. My interest in electronic music started in the '90s with Daft Punk as a kid, and then in the 2000s with The Chemical Brothers.
From there, I started going to trance events with my friends and discovered other artists that resonated with me at the time: Justice, Infected Mushroom, and Soulwax. I later found progressive house through listening to Hernán Cattáneo and Martin Garcia, and I fell in love with the sound because of the melodies and rhythms. Being a musician, I became interested in how the songs are made and what DJs do, which led me to learn how to mix and produce my own tracks.
WTG: How would you describe the electronic music scene in Australia, especially in relation to progressive house?
Federico Puentes: I’ve lived in Sydney since I moved to Australia in 2013, so I can give you my perspective based on what I’ve seen and experienced here. Currently, the electronic music scene in Sydney is at its peak—lots of international artists are visiting, and there’s plenty of great local talent as well. There are many events happening, from club nights and house parties to outdoor events, where progressive house is a key part of the sound.
WTG: What unique elements do Argentinian DJs bring to the Australian electronic music landscape?
Federico Puentes: I think we bring the energy, flavor, textures, and groove that Argentinian progressive house is known for. If I had to pick the most important elements, it would be the groove and the melody.
WTG: What has been your experience performing in different cities across Australia? Do you see a noticeable difference in the scene or audience?
Federico Puentes: Although I’ve mostly played in Sydney and its surroundings and attended gigs in Melbourne, I haven’t noticed much difference between the scenes. Perhaps the most noticeable thing is when Latin people are at an event—you can definitely tell there's more noise! hahah
WTG: :D :D What challenges have you faced in Australia's progressive house scene, and how have you overcome them?
Federico Puentes: When I started DJing here around 10 years ago, progressive house was very niche. Everywhere, there was Techno, Tech House, and some traditional House, but not much Trance. At that time, my sound didn’t fit with peak-time music, except for the warm-ups. So, every time I engaged with a promoter, I requested or mentioned that I’d be more than happy to do the warm-up.
WTG: Are there any local Australian DJs or producers you admire or see as up-and-coming talents in progressive house?
Federico Puentes: I have a few names in mind—GMJ, Matter, Eric Lune, and Anthony Pappa, Jamie Stevens are world-class acts. Zankee Gulati is another one who’s doing amazing things. Tristan Case, Covsky, Frais, Marley Hughes, and Samantha Loveridge are some other names that come to mind.
WTG: What differences or similarities have you noticed between Argentinean and Australian audiences?
Federico Puentes: I guess the most obvious difference is that Argentinians are more passionate and expressive. Australians are super respectful but also really friendly, and they get into the music just as much as anyone else. They know how to have a good time and enjoy the music.
WTG: What are some of your favorite venues to perform at in Australia?
Federico Puentes: Civic Underground is my first choice, but if I could go back in time, I would say Sly Fox—unfortunately, that club doesn’t exist anymore.
WTG: Where do you see the progressive house scene in Australia going in the next few years?
Federico Puentes: I think it will keep growing. It has certainly changed a lot in the last 10 years, and I see more and more people being attracted to this sound. I believe it’s gonna keep growing, thanks to promoters, producers, DJs, and, most importantly, the dancers who are keen to listen to this type of music.
WTG: Any message you'd like to send out to your fans or people interested in the progressive house scene in Australia?
Federico Puentes: Thanks for reading this far hahaha, and thanks for supporting my music and coming to the gigs. You’ll always be welcomed by people who love dancing to groovy progressive house beats. See you on the dance floor!
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Thanks a lot, Fede—it's been great to meet you, and we love your music!
To stay connected with Federico and discover more of his music, be sure to follow him on Instagram, Spotify, and SoundCloud.
Stay tuned for more interviews as we continue to explore the stories of artists shaping the future of electronic music. If you’re an artist and would like to be featured in our next GrooveLight series, head over to this Link and complete the form, we’d love to hear from you!
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