Caballero [Interview]

Caballero’s Xtao Xounds imprint arrives in exciting fashion with a much anticipated single from the label boss himself. Hailing from Mexico, Hugo Caballero, aka DJ Gandulk and Caballero has been a fixture of his country's electronic music culture for the better part of two decades. With a history rich in music, Caballero began his journey playing guitar and performing in rock and alternative bands, before eventually discovering a new passion in electronic music. First emerging in 2009 with ‘Swing’, a two-track showcase recorded alongside frequent collaborator 2up, and released via Iboga Mexico, Caballero became a rising artist to watch. Subsequent projects via Digital Structures, Sounds of Earth, Steyoyoke and Undergroove Music, amongst others, were received with praise from the underground’s premiere tastemakers. Also an accomplished DJ, Caballero has been a primary figure within Mexico’s burgeoning nightlife. With a unique and cohesive blend of styles, the Mexico City resident can often be found blurring the lines between progressive and melodic house, while showcasing his impeccable programming skills at some of the country’s trendiest venues. Now, sitting firmly as one of Mexico’s most recognized electronic music talents, Caballero launches his Xtao Xounds imprint with ‘Take Me Home’, alongside a remix from Juan Pablo Torrez.

Progressive Astronaut caught up with Caballero to learn more about the release of 'Take Me Home', 2024 highlights, growing up in Mexixo, DJing, and much more. Enjoy.

Hi Gandulk, thanks for talking to us today. Now that we’ve reached the end of the year, how has 2024 been for you?

2024 has been a year of growth for Xtao Xounds, despite facing some personal and team challenges. We've solidified our team dynamic while actively seeking and signing new music and artists to the label. It's been a productive year overall.

Let’s look back on the year, what gig of yours has stood out the most and why?

A standout performance was our Hybrid Vocal Live & DJ Set with María (MX) at the Radiance Festival in October. This festival, organized by SOE Label & DJ Vazik Production, featured renowned artists like Guy J, Frankey & Sandrino, and Lampe. The crowd's enthusiastic response to our set, showcasing upcoming Xtao Xounds releases, was incredibly rewarding. The powerful sound system perfectly complemented the energy of our performance.

Now let’s look at tracks (not your own), what is a track or tracks which have come out this year that has impressed you the most and why?

Tom Baker from Australia has been a major inspiration this year. His music consistently impresses with its 3D sound design and diverse range of tempos and genres. I've also been enjoying the work of Colombian artists like Kamilo Sanclemente and Juan Buitrago, who incorporate a strong Latin groove and exhibit excellent sound selection.

Could you take us through a day in your life, from a possible morning routine through to your work? What does a day in your life look like?

My day typically starts with a cup of coffee or green tea. I then spend a couple of hours checking social media and responding to emails. My schedule varies depending on the day. I might be teaching production lessons, mixing or mastering tracks for other artists, or collaborating with producer friends in their studios. These collaborative sessions are some of my favorites as they foster creativity and learning. Additionally, I sometimes work on sound design for various projects, such as films or radio.

For most artists, originality is first preceded by a phase of learning and, often, emulating others. What was this like for you?

I've always strived for originality in my music, aiming to develop a distinct sound characterized by my unique groove and sound selection. This pursuit transcends specific styles, tempos, or genres. While I undoubtedly learned from emulating others during my early stages, years of experimentation, playing live, and gathering diverse audience feedback have been crucial in shaping my individual sound.

How did growing up in Mexico affect your music taste and direction into becoming a DJ and producer? And who from your home country first inspired you when you discovered electronic music?

Born in Mexico City but raised in the north of the country, I began playing guitar at 10. This early exposure to music, encompassing rock, funk, jazz, blues, black metal, and traditional Mexican music, fostered my musicality and led me to explore other instruments like drums, bass guitar, piano, and keyboards. Returning to Mexico City at 19, I was captivated by the vibrant electronic music scene. Artists like Infected Mushroom, KoxBox, James Monroe, and many more underground, minimal, and progressive international acts performing live sets left a profound impact on me. This experience ignited my desire to translate my instrumental music knowledge into the digital realm. While the initial learning process, involving various DAWs and techniques, took several years, it ultimately paved the way for me to develop my own unique sound and musical style.

Who from your home country inspired you the most early on and why were they inspirational for you?

My early musical inspiration stemmed from rock bands. Within the Mexican electronic music scene, artists like Ecliptic, Xibalba, Odiseo, Ojos, Nugat, Jey & Ex, Albino, Mexican Trance Mafia, D-tek, and Tsunami, who were actively producing and releasing high-quality music during the 2000-2002 period, served as significant inspirations.

What are some of your best memories from first going to clubs? Were there specific nights or sets that really made you feel you wanted to pursue electronic music?

My early experiences with the electronic music scene weren't confined to clubs. I attended numerous house parties in various neighborhoods of Mexico City and underground raves outside the city. Witnessing live sets by artists like James Monroe, Perfect Stranger, FrogaCult, Mapusa Mapusa, and Antix during this period (2000-2002) was truly transformative. These experiences ignited my passion for electronic music and set me on the path I'm on today.

How would you describe the music you make? Do you consider yourself a progressive house producer? And are you always producing with the dancefloor in mind?

While I often work within the progressive music realm, I explore a diverse range of styles and genres. My approach to music-making is fluid and often inspired by various sources, including personal feelings, the dancefloor, films, parties, and travel experiences. I constantly strive to refine my sound with each track. I believe my music is characterized by honest, intelligent, and fun grooves, seamlessly blending classic and sophisticated melodic elements.

You have a new single ‘Take Me Home’ which is out now via your new Xtao Xounds imprint. Tell us a bit about the track and what sort of vibe you were going for on it.

We're incredibly excited to release 'Take Me Home' as the inaugural release for Xtao Xounds. This track represents the culmination of two years of dedicated work and marks the beginning of a new chapter for us.

Is there a special meaning behind the track for you?

Yes, 'Take Me Home' holds a deep personal meaning for me and those close to me. It reflects a challenging period we experienced, and we sought to encapsulate those emotions within the music and vocals.

How much play has ‘Take Me Home’ tracks gotten in your sets and to what reaction?

I've been incorporating 'Take Me Home' into my sets for almost two years, from the initial test files to its current form, including live performances with María (MX) featuring a real analog German mastering file. The crowd's response to the track has consistently been incredibly positive.

Let our readers inside your studio for a moment, what is your current setup and what studio tools are featured heavily in your recent productions and more specifically on ‘Take Me Home’?

The Virus Ti2 and Kork MS2020 have been instrumental in my recent productions, including 'Take Me Home.' I also frequently utilize the Pultec Pro and Avalon Channel Strip from UAD, along with FabFilter plugins.

There is also an excellent remix from Clubsonica boss Juan Pablo Torrez, why was he a great choice to re-interpret the track?

Mario Villanova, my partner in Xtao Xounds and very close friend, introduced me to Juan Pablo Torrez at a New Year's Eve party in Puerto Vallarta in 2022-2023. This encounter led to discussions about potential collaborations, remixes, and other projects. I'm incredibly grateful to JPTorrez for his invaluable support in launching Xtao Xounds, including connecting me with you for this interview.

What was ‘Take Me Home’ the right track to launch your new label Xtao Xounds? And was there ever a consideration to release it somewhere else?

'Take Me Home' was always intended to be the inaugural release for Xtao Xounds. We believe its emotional depth, impact, and sonic character perfectly represent the essence of the label.

Now that you have your Xtao Xounds imprint, what is the thought process in terms of where your new music goes? Does some of it get shopped to other labels first? Or how do you go about deciding what gets released on Xtao Xounds and what doesn’t?

When considering the release of new music, I carefully assess whether it aligns with the aesthetic and musical direction of a specific label. If a particular label resonates with the track's style or if I believe it would be a good fit for an artist I admire, I may explore release options with them. Ultimately, the decision on whether a track is released on Xtao Xounds is based on its overall quality and whether it embodies the label's unique identity.

Will you be signing music from other artists? And if so, what advice would you have for them in terms of what you are looking for?

Yes, we are actively seeking and signing music from other artists. We're particularly interested in artists who demonstrate a high level of originality and artistic vision.

Shifting to DJing for a moment, what were some of the main challenges and goals when starting out as a DJ and how have they changed over time?

Initially, the biggest challenge was developing a unique DJ style. I focused on honing my technical skills, understanding the nuances of music selection and mixing, and connecting with the audience.

Over time, my goals have evolved. I now prioritize creating a memorable and immersive experience for the audience, whether through seamless transitions, unexpected musical journeys, or incorporating live elements into my sets.

What is it about DJing, compared to producing your own music, that makes it interesting for you?

DJing presents a unique challenge and excitement. Unlike producing, where you meticulously craft a sound in the studio, DJing is more instinctive and improvisational. It's like skateboarding – you learn by doing, refining your skills through experience and developing an intuitive sense of rhythm and flow. The interaction with the audience, the ability to read the energy of the crowd and respond in real-time, is a thrilling aspect of DJing.

Can you tell me a bit about how your work as a DJ has influenced your view of music, your way of listening to tracks and perhaps also, your work as a producer?

My DJ experiences have profoundly shaped my musical perspective. I constantly analyze music, trying to understand its underlying structure, the interplay of instruments, and the techniques employed in its creation. This deep listening not only enhances my appreciation for music but also provides valuable insights that inform my own production process. I'm always seeking inspiration and new ideas from the music I encounter.

How much prep do you put into the sets you play, or are they spontaneous for the most part?

My sets are a blend of preparation and spontaneity. I typically start by creating a playlist with new tracks and tracks I've been enjoying, often incorporating music shared by friends. I then spend some time refining this selection, ensuring a cohesive flow and considering the specific vibe and energy I want to create for the event. However, I always leave room for improvisation, allowing the energy of the crowd to guide my set direction.

Current Top five tracks in your sets?

1. Xompax, Caballero - Timeless (Unreleased)
2. Tanko, Caballero - Parallels (Soon on Xtao Xounds)
3. Caballero, María (MX) - Take Me Home (Xtao Xounds)
4. Caballero, María (MX) - Fighting Back (Kamilo Sanclemente Remix) (Soon on Xtao Xounds)
5. Juan Buitrago & Tinga - Faceless (UV)

If you are not DJing, producing or socializing at clubs, where do we find you? And doing what?

You'll usually find me in my home studio, working on new music or exploring new sounds.

If you could set up an event with a line-up of five artists of your choice, who would you book and what set times would you ascribe to the artists? (Do not include yourself)

"This is a tough one! But here's a dream lineup:
● Sebastien Leger (Opening set)
● Adam Ten & Mita Gami
● Juan Buitrago
● Tom Baker
● Kamilo Sanclemente (Closing set)"

If you were not a DJ/Producer what do you think you’d be doing with your life?

I'm passionate about animals and technology, so perhaps I'd be working in a field that combines those interests, perhaps in animal rehabilitation or developing innovative technologies for animal welfare. Travel would definitely be a significant part of my life.

What’s something people do not know about you?

"People might be surprised to learn that I'm actually quite serious outside of the music world." JOKE :P

Apart from music, what makes you happiest?

Spending time with my family and friends, and enjoying the company of my dogs brings me immense joy.

What can we look forward to from you in 2025? Any releases or gigs you are looking forward to?

We have an exciting year ahead for Xtao Xounds! We're planning to release several EPs, singles, compilations, and an album in 2025. We're also looking forward to expanding the label's reach and showcasing our artists internationally.

'Take Me Home' is available now via Xtao Xounds: https://tinyurl.com/34rmh36w