They write their tales in sound waves, carefully curating the highs and lows—the tension and release. The best part? The story is never told the same way twice—a singular journey for those who bear witness. This was never more apparent than the night of October 12th, when an enthralling group of artists brought a captivating night of music to the Fruit for a “Rave for Relief,” benefiting victims of devastating Hurricane Helene.

Kicking off the night, Durham artist Séance (Sean Garrett) told his story through groovy syncopations on a fog-laden dancefloor. The reverb-washed sounds and eerie synth pads felt perfect for the mid-October evening. Beyond just the music, his careful realigning of the neon sign hanging behind him mid-set showed regard for the space beyond just the beats. This empathy—warmth, even—was evident in each of the artists who played, despite the chilly fall air that threatened to creep in.

The story of artist Ren’s hour was of high-tension exuberance. With a percussion-driven house sound, Ren (Raleigh-based producer Darren Alston) had the audience on their feet the whole time. His clear passion for the craft and infectious energy radiated throughout the room, keeping the temperature on the dancefloor red-hot. It was almost impossible to look away from Ren, a producer with a presence that catches your attention from behind the booth. It was an exhilarating set from start to finish that served as the perfect prelude for what was yet to come.

A drunken email to change your life. That’s how Romain Garcia’s journey began. Though producing since his teens, it was a couple of demos sent out on a whim during quarantine that kickstarted the Parisian artist’s career. Three months after the release of his most recent song Kako, an atmospheric blend of house and techno that was reportedly produced in just two hours, Garcia delivered a soaring set filled with anthemic synth leads, howling vocals, and a four-on-the-floor kick to rattle your bones—a triumphant slice of the European club right in the heart of the NC underground.

When asked how tour in America is going so far, he responded with a resounding “It’s perfect!” The second North American run for Garcia, this one has been bigger and better with 14 stops on the schedule. “It’s amazing to see that people listen to my music in America,” the artist commented. About his performance in Durham specifically, he praised the Fruit’s underground feel, an authentic vibe that energized and motivated him for a great show. 

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What’s next for the rising techno star? A short retreat to the forest to relax and complete his first full-length solo album, a release that should be on every deep house and melodic techno fan’s radar. 

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To conclude, as the French might say…

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Fin.

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