Jeddah-based DJ, curator, and longtime underground house advocate Anmarz has spent decades refining his craft. From his early days in Oregon’s Pacific Northwest to his influential residencies in the 2000s, his career has been defined by a deep commitment to connecting the dots between hip-hop, Chicago house, jazz, and the deeper corners of the dancefloor. Now, he is channeling that extensive experience into a new venture: Peachez in Crates.
Born from the successful Peachez event series in Jeddah, the label serves as a bridge between Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving underground scene and an international network of artists. The label’s debut, Crate 001, is an ambitious 11-track compilation that features a heavyweight lineup including Kyle Hall, Joss Moog, Jason Hodges, Hector Moralez, Chanson E, and Bninjas. For Anmarz, this release is more than just a debut; it is a statement of intent for a project that already has a full year of planned releases and remixes.
The Origins of Peachez
The story of Peachez began in 2007 when Anmarz returned to Jeddah from Oregon. He transformed his living room into a makeshift club, creating a sanctuary for local music lovers. “At a time when Saudi wasn’t nearly as open as it is today, our apartment became the ‘After’s After’ with 40-plus regulars showing up every week,” he recalls. After closing that chapter in 2010, the revival of the name 14 years later feels like a natural progression. “Peachez is simply my way of sharing the house music I grew up with, with the new generation of music lovers.”
A Global Vision for Local Talent
The philosophy behind Crate 001 is rooted in mutual respect and a shared love for authentic house music. Anmarz notes that the compilation came together organically after a studio session with Kyle Hall. “I never really had the intention of starting a label. It happened naturally. Kyle came to Jeddah, we did a studio session, and a couple hours later ‘Nike’ was finished. He left, and I just sat there thinking, people need to hear this.”
The resulting compilation captures a diverse range of influences, from acid and Chicago house to soulful, sample-driven tracks. Anmarz’s own contribution, “Luv Junk,” serves as the opener, blending his love for hip-hop and house. “It captures my love for both hip-hop and house in the rawest, most unfiltered way,” he explains.
As the label looks toward the future, the focus remains on organic growth. With ten singles planned over the coming year, Peachez in Crates is poised to become a significant platform for both established legends and emerging talent. For Anmarz, the goal is simple: to stay honest, focus on the music, and continue building a community that transcends borders.
