Disco Dons - Malta 2024 Artist Spotlight Series

Our weekend festival will take place from 4th – 6th October 2024. Tickets are available above.

Last year our Defected Croatia Disco Dons article celebrated the best artists known for helming a throwback sound.

Four of these artists, Mousse T., Dan Shake, Natasha Diggs and The Shapeshifters, are also attending Defected Malta this year! Read more about them over on our official Croatia site.

Now our multi-part Malta festival series continues, as we present even more disco dons for Defected Malta.

DAVE LEE

Dave Lee is renowned in the industry for his distinctive style, blending funk, soul, and disco into one recognisable sonic aesthetic. Dave Lee's journey began in the vibrant club scene of the late 1980s and early 1990s, developing a mastery of his craft and an innate ability to read the crowd.

In addition to his prowess behind the decks, Dave Lee is a prolific producer, releasing a plethora of hit singles and albums under various aliases including Joey Negro, Akabu, and Doug Willis. His discography boasts the classics ‘Make A Move On Me’, ‘Must Be The Music’ and ‘Can't Get High Without U’ – all dancefloor anthems that defined a generation of soulful shakers.

Beyond his success as a solo artist, Dave Lee's contributions to the music industry extend to his work as a remixer, collaborator, and label owner. Through his label, Z Records, he continues to champion emerging talent and preserve the rich heritage of disco and house in 2024 and beyond.

HORSE MEAT DISCO

A Horse Meat Disco is one of the many ways to celebrate inclusivity and infectious grooves at Defected Malta. Hailing from London, this collective of disco aficionados are known for their lengthy parties, garnering a dedicated following since the mid-2000s thanks to their residency at renowned London gay club The Eagle.

Today, Horse Meat Disco have taken their brand to international heights, bringing their infectious energy and vibrant sound where it’s most desired. They have also released compilations and singles as individuals and together across Defected’s family of labels including Glittebox and Faith, showcasing their passion for the craft; their name has become synonymous with the revitalization of disco music in nightlife culture.

MELVO BAPTISTE

West London tastemaker Melvo Baptiste is no stranger to Defected fans. The Remedy Project label boss is widely respected in the industry thanks to his imprint, radio broadcasts and sleek, soulful productions. Now the newly appointed head of Glitterbox, it’s now question Melvo knows his way around disco.

With his own releases involving the artistry of Jamie 3:26, Dames Brown, Annette Bowen, Danou P, Phebe Edwards and Snips, Melvo Baptiste has managed to spark the interest of house’s finest selectors including Louie Vega, Natasha Diggs and DJ Spen. With even more to come in 2024, Melvo continues to use his platform to shine a light on the very best selectors from around the world.

YASMIN

One such artist is Yasmin, a burgeoning selector who has emerged as one of the more exciting new acts expanding the world of house and disco. Hailing from Mexico, her innovative and diverse sets have scored her a legion of fans across Soundcloud and Instagram, including holding a residency podcast slot at Rinse FM earlier in her career.

Recently, Yasmin has been touring the world on many of Glitterbox’s worldwide events, including the brand’s upcoming debut in Portugal and at Italy’s Nameless Festival and now Defected Malta. Not just a festival DJ, the fresh talent has often demonstrated her prowess for radio, recently hosting Glitterbox’s radio show alongside American R&B icon Shirley Jones.

As far as festivals go, the plethora of disco talent heading to our Malta festival is unmatched, all set against a backdrop of crystalline waters, sandy beaches and clear blue skies...

Get your tickets using the tabs above while you still can.