There’s no off switch for Naarm producer Sam Alfred in 2023. This year has already contained the release of a pumped-up house EP in Suzuka, a sold out nationwide headline tour, a rammed set at MODE Festival and his first ever tracks pressed to wax.  

That’s plenty… but this Egyptian-born artist of South Sudanese origin is eager to push further and consistently release dope dance music and gig like mad. 

The next evolution in that goal is new single “Forward Step (Journey Mix)”, an epic cow-bell laden house hammer that blooms into a euphoric flower. Running with a 90’s club flavour, Sam lays airy synths over punchy piano and ravy stabs while an all-powerful speech plays out, celebrating the idea that we’re all in control of writing our own futures. There’s a bubbling over of excitement on this one as it builds and builds and builds! 

Considering its length, “Forward Step (Journey Mix)” came together quickly and is all about creating that ‘moment’ in a song. 

“I was taking some time off writing music in Tasmania but one day fired up Ableton and laid something down. I was trying to replicate old-school 90’s house tracks as they’re always a journey and have that epic moment.” 

For those keen to hear Sam road test this throwback weapon, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to do so over summer with him spinning at Someday Soon Festival, Lost Paradise, Let Them Eat Cake and more.