Ape Drums, DJ Lag – “GQTECH”
“This is something we made in hopes to progress and start a new sound, a new movement. It’s the perfect way to blend our sounds together and introduce them to the world. DJ Lag’s GQOM and my version of Afro-tech.”
Ape Drum’s ‘Nostalgic & Pivotal’ Mood Playlist Featuring Randy, Caifanes & More
Photo by AJ Woomer.
After co-producing BLACKPINK’s major summer anthem “JUMP,” Ape Drums released the innovative Afro-tech track “GQTECH” with South African DJ and producer DJ Lag last Friday (Sept. 12). Remezcla talked to the Mexican-American producer about his newest collaboration, his upcoming Coachella performance with Major Lazer, and his favorite tracks that he calls “nostalgic” and “pivotal.”
Born Eric Alberto-Lopez, Ape Drums’ new collaboration with DJ Lag “made perfect sense” and “was probably the smoothest [and] quickest collaboration ever” in his eyes. What makes the joint track special is that it intertwines EDM subgenres Gqom — a dark, heavy bass line-driven genre that DJ Lag is known for — and Afro-tech, which features traditional African rhythms that Ape Drums is known for, in hopes of introducing the mix on a global scale. “It’s perfect because you could hear both of our signature sounds in there,” Ape Drums shares. “That’s really hard to do nowadays when collaborating, especially with two different genres of music.”
Being like-minded producers, the collaboration sounds as if there’s only one producer behind the decks. It starts with a cinematic and intriguing intro, leading with African percussions and Gqom elements like a thick bass line with haunting synths along the sonic ride. Together, “GQTECH” sounds like someone’s walking behind you, but you’re scared to look back — perfect for your upcoming Halloween playlist.
It’s also perfect for your next GRWM festival playlist, whether it’s Escape Halloween or Coachella. Speaking of the latter festival, Ape Drums is going to perform at Coachella in 2026 as part of Major Lazer. “The last time they performed at Coachella, I watched from the crowd. It was prob the best show to date, and now we get to do it together,” he said about the upcoming feat. Ape joined Major Lazer in 2019.
To continue celebrating the new collaboration, Ape Drums curated an exclusive mood playlist that features “GQTECH.” The moods chosen? “Nostalgic” and “pivotal.” From his new joint track with DJ Lag to Caifanes’ “Nubes,” here are seven hand-selected songs, with an explainer by the Mexican-American producer and DJ.
Randy, Ape Drums – “23”
“Having this song with Randy still feels surreal, especially after the success it had. I’ve loved perreo music since I first heard it in the ‘90s. Having him be this lyrical over my kind of perreo sound is still something I’m very proud of.”
Los Prisioneros – “Tren Al Sur”
“This song had such a big effect on me as a young kid. It was one of the first songs I fell in love with. The melodies of both the music and the vocals are timeless.”
Nightcrawlers – “Push the Feeling On”
“This is probably my favorite song of all time. Listening to this song as a kid really shaped the way I listen and make music, even to this day.”
El General, C & C Music Factory – “Robi Rob’s Boriqua Anthem”
“This was one of the first songs I’ve heard that blended ‘90s house music with Caribbean vocals, in Spanish at that. I still play it sometimes!”
Ape Drums, JAMIIE - “111”
“I released this song in August, and it’s my most successful release yet, in terms of my solo project and support. It’s still in the top 10 Beatport Afro House and has gotten support from the biggest DJs in different scenes. I’m getting a ‘111’ tattoo soon!”
Caifanes – “Nubes”
“Another classic from my childhood, songs from Caifanes/Jaguares will always be a part of me. Timeless!”
Listen to Ape Drum’s “Nostalgic & Pivotal” playlist on Apple Music and Spotify.