Mixmag Asia Radio: vibrant house music from Los Baro

Need a splash of colour added to your music rotation for the week? Los Baro has all the right shades of frequency.

Indonesian artist Randhy Yanas started out as a guitarist in 2009, it was only after he left his hometown Padang and relocated to Jakarta did his focus shifted to DJing (which kickstarted in 2022)... and that’s when his ambitious alias Los Baro was born. He quickly founded Arraw Records, a label and collective of DJs and online music broadcasters, and is a resident host and DJ on Hong Kong Community Radio.

His recent, self-released, 'Spectrum' EP spotlights his ability to carve new shapes out of more classic-sounding motifs. Los Baro had this to say about 'Lucid Dreams', an obvious stand-out track on the UP — "('Lucid Dream') represents a clear sound but with winding paths, represented by the acid sound of a synthesiser. It's like being trapped in an adventure inside a labyrinth, representing a controllable dream, yet everything is unreal.

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Even though it was only recently that he started to dip his toes in the vast ocean of electronic music, the future is already looking promising for Los Baro with an upcoming EP and this technicoloured mix packed with vibrant grooves. Tune into Mixmag Asia Radio with Los Baro below.

Where are you based and how did you get there?

I was born and raised in Padang, Indonesia. But now I stay in Jakarta. I moved so I could grow!


What’s your favourite thing about the music scene there?

Jakarta is one of the concrete manifestations of "bhinneka", which means diversity. There are always new colours and elements in the local music scene and that part really helps me to continuously develop myself.


In five words, what do your DJ sets sound like?

Mind-bending, odyssey, vibrant, tantalising, intriguing.


And in three words, how would you describe yourself?

Curious-minded, wanderer, go-getter.


What recent trends in music have you been paying attention to? Have you caught onto them?

I'm not exactly sure if this is a trend or not, but I've always been fascinated by the early eras of house music. The sound selection from my favourite producers, both in the early era and now, always catches my attention on how they blend various sounds into a brilliant package.


Are there any producers and DJs in Asia that have recently caught your attention?

PNNY — this DJ collective is amazing! I think everyone in Bali must know them. However, I saw their show for the first time in Jakarta, and it was so enjoyable. Their set was very rich and exciting!

Suratman/ Acidbex — He is one of the few people who made an impact on my DJ journey. His music selection is as good as his attitude. Big respect!

Dekadenz — This DJ collective presents dark disco, EBM, etc. The last time I saw their performance, their set was very solid. I thoroughly enjoyed it.


Describe one prediction you have about dance music in a post-pandemic world that’s being driven by new technologies.

As a synthesizer enthusiast, I always explore the works of several producers whose I admire. Lately, I've come across various unique and different synthesizer sounds. It has piqued my interest to delve deeper into it, like what type of sampler is being used. My prediction is that after the post-pandemic period, we will see a surge in the use of unique samplers and exciting to explore further.


Tell us about the inspiration behind this mix - what drove your thoughts and emotions, and how did you curate your selection?

The inspiration behind this mix is a journey. I really love the sets that make people feel like they're experiencing a complete storytelling journey. Each song selection in this mix aligns with the journey I want to convey through audio media. It's not just about providing mere beats, but I also aim to involve deep emotions and touch the heart.


What equipment did you record this mix on?

I used my Pioneer DDJ RB


What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever seen happening from the DJ booth?

Two days ago, during my EP launch event, I saw someone gesture the peace sign during my set, and I didn't know what it meant. Turns out it was a close friend of mine; he looked completely different. I almost didn't recognize him, he was so lively and energetic — it was like seeing a whole other side of him, haha! Other friends were delighted by his presence, as he really had a way of making the crowd enjoyable and lively. Shout out to my beloved friend Andra!


Where can we hear you playing next?

I will be performing at an event in my hometown, Padang. This is gonna be so much fun because it's my very first trip as a DJ. I'm very excited!