There is a distinct quality to dance music that prioritizes the creation of a moment over the frantic pursuit of the next trend. Austin-based DJ, producer, and dedicated vinyl enthusiast Nathan Stewart has spent years refining this aesthetic, weaving together deep house, slo-mo disco, funk, acid, and Balearic influences into a sound that feels both grounded and timeless.
Returning to Whiskey Pickle Records for his fourth release, Stewart presents the Return To Reverie EP. This three-track collection serves as a masterclass in warm analogue textures and hypnotic rhythms. From the cosmic keys of “Another Orbit” to the dubbed-out acid romance of “Bring It Back,” the EP captures a deliberate, immersive energy. The project is rounded out by a sun-soaked remix from Tokyo-based producer Max Essa, further cementing the release’s Balearic appeal.
The Philosophy of the Dream State
For Stewart, the EP was born from a specific mental image: the struggle of a person trying to return to a dream after being abruptly awakened. “I wanted to explore the theme of being pulled from a daydream just as it is getting good and attempting to reject the waking state,” he explains. Each track functions as a chapter in this narrative, with the filter work of “Dream Sequence” representing the initial dream, and the collaborative efforts on “Another Orbit” signaling a successful return to that subconscious space.
Collaboration and Craft
The inclusion of Austin musician Claude 9 on “Another Orbit” proved to be a seamless addition. Stewart, who had long admired the artist’s work, reached out via a mutual connection. To his surprise, the collaboration required little back-and-forth; the first version Claude 9 submitted captured the exact vision Stewart had for the track. Similarly, the remix by Max Essa provided a perfect, whimsical counterpoint to the original, maintaining the core elements while filtering them through his signature Balearic lens.
Vinyl Culture and Creative Evolution
Stewart’s deep-rooted connection to vinyl collecting remains a cornerstone of his production process. He describes a “bin-to-studio pipeline” where his discoveries as a crate-digger directly influence his studio output. Whether it is a specific sample or an interesting arrangement, this practice keeps him curious and open to experimentation. “The digging feeds the creativity in the studio, which feeds the desire to dig for more records,” he notes.
Looking ahead, Stewart remains committed to his craft, with plans for new EPs, further collaborations, and the launch of his own label, Outdoor Activities Recordings. As he continues to explore his musical personality through various aliases and projects, his focus remains on the simple, unadulterated joy of creation—a testament to his enduring love affair with music.