An iconic night with Matroda
An incredible heat filled the room. Energy built through hours of dancing bodies, thick in the air, hung heavy in the glow of flashing lights. Sweaters and coats were quickly shed at the door as attendees filed in for a sold-out show to ring in the holiday season as Matroda’s Late Night Talks tour arrived in Durham, North Carolina—bringing the fire to warm a chilly autumn night. The show took place on the night of November 22nd at the hottest dance venue in the Triangle, the Fruit.
The show started with Asheville-based artist Rab!d Ron!e. An unexpected hiatus due to Hurricane Helene made this her first show back at the decks since the storm—and a triumphant return it was. “I felt so in my element again,” she commented after the set. An enigmatic performer and clever music curator, she invited the crowd to “party like it's [their] birthday” through viral-worthy techno twists on hip-hop club classics. Drawing on her own experiences to build this evocative sound, she shared, “There’s no better feeling than when you're singing and dancing with your friends, having the best night out.”
RAB!D RON!E
Lovra (a portmanteau of “Laura” and “Love”) brought a taste of Berlin next. Her infectious house grooves evolved during the COVID pandemic as she spent time honing in on this sound. Three and a half weeks into her American tour, she commented on her love for the country and its music scene, stating “I feel at home here.” With cinematic rises and falls, buzzy bright synth riffs, and heavy rolling basslines, Lovra enchanted the audience with infectious charisma. Her music felt both nostalgic and innovative, blending groovy tech house with ‘80s throwbacks.
LOVRA bringing the Berlin vibes to Durham
Acclaimed Croatian bass-house artist Matroda headlined with his unique and magnetic “matrodasound.” Blending house, bass, and tech sonic palettes, his newest EP Late Night Talks laid the groundwork for a sultry and chic set—think distinct horns, punchy percussive rhythms, and a Chi-Lites sample that you may recognize from Beyoncé hit “Crazy in Love.” He had an effortless vibe on stage—sunglasses on, nodding along to the music as the dancefloor sizzled with frenetic energy around him. Matroda led the crowd from his central position in the room as audience members surrounded him from all angles in a 360-degree immersive setup. The speakers situated throughout the space had the music feeling up close and personal no matter where you were, adding another layer of intimacy to an already steamy atmosphere.
Epic b2b with Matroda and LOVRA
World-class music in a gritty, homegrown space—this show brought sonic sophistication without losing its human touch. Each artist demonstrated a deep passion for their craft and a strong connection to the audience, all while positioning themselves as musical pioneers. The night was a powerful reminder that electronic music isn’t just about having the biggest drops or flipping the craziest samples—it’s about the passionate artists and vibrant communities that shape the future of the scene.
