Severino might be best known as an associate of disco diamonds Horse Meat Disco, but his formative years in dance music were spent worshiping the Chicago house sound, distributing for Classic Recordings during the 90s in Italy. At 26 he packed up sticks and moved to London in search of more distribution work and, in the process, quickly became embedded in the Capital’s nightlife. Back before Shoreditch was Shoredtich, he ran the Happy Families parties with ex-Jockey Slut editor Rob Wood and was soon welcomed into the Horse Meat Disco as a resident.
Possessing a record collection that extends far beyond the Chicago house and disco he has made his name on, we welcomed the chance to showcase a side of his record collection that we’re less familiar with. Away from those peak time moments, in those moments of self-reflection, here are Severino’s top 10 track to help you think.
Tortoise – ‘TNT’
The entire album from this progressive Chicago band is sublime. Rock? Electro? Minimal? Everything.
Stevie Wonder – ‘Lately’
GENIUS ARTIST – one of my faves ever. So many songs from him…difficult to pick just one!
Mark Hollis – ‘The Colour of Spring’
I love his voice from Talk Talk but this solo album is amazing. Top album of all time for me.
Nick Drake – ‘River Man’
An incredible artist and songwriter – one very important for everybody to know.
Frankie Goes to Hollywood – ‘The Power of Love’
So powerful – Holly’s voice and a full orchestra.
Carl Craig – ‘At Les’
Amazing sound and very atmospheric. Detroit’s finest.
Tamia – ‘U Put a Move On My Heart’
Produced by the AMAZING Quincy Jones. Great voice, sad lyrics. Love this.
Herbie Hancock – ‘Stars In Your Eyes’
Incredible production (of course) and beautiful lyrics. Really reflects my DJ career and love for music.
Steve Reich – ‘Music for 18 Musicians’
So genius and upfront. Techno? Maybe. Just amazing.
Alva Noto & Ryuichi Sakamoto – ‘Vrioon’
The entire two albums are so delicate and genius. I love the contrast of the cold electro sound with the piano warm sound.
Severino plays Fat Boy Slim’s Smile High Club at Tobacco Dock, London on 2nd Jan.
