Build for the club: 5 studio tips from Massi Rocket
Massi Rocket, born Massimiliano Ruffolo, is a Milan-based DJ, producer, and entrepreneur behind the iconic Rocket Club Milano. A cornerstone of Italy’s underground nightlife, the venue has become a launchpad for local and international acts, and home to Motel Calypso — both a weekly Thursday party and a record label.
Photo credit: Massi Rocket – Official
Self-taught and connected to the pulse of the scene, Massi honed his craft through the club’s network, shaping a style that moves between tech-house and minimal deep with global influences.
His debut EP, ‘Baila/Everybodies’, has been released via Motel Calypso Records. ‘Baila’ features heavy percussion with Spanish vocals, while ‘Everybodies’ showcases chopped male vocal work. Both tracks exemplify Massi’s dynamic, club-focused sound.
Here, Massi shares his personal philosophy for building effective tech-house tracks designed to move dancefloors — not feeds.
1. It all starts with a good sample
I always keep my ears open for that one unique sample that can spark the whole track. Whether it’s a dusty loop from an old pack or a small vocal fragment found online, a great sample can give you the character and identity you need. Don’t overthink it – if it makes you move, it’s worth building on.
2. Record vocals that feel human
When I work with vocals, I prefer recording them myself with original vocalists. It keeps the vibe authentic and gives me full control over mood and tone. I look for attitude and groove over perfection. For club tracks, emotion is in the delivery, not just the pitch.
3. Digital tools, real groove
I work almost entirely in the box – all digital, no hardware. But I treat my digital instruments like physical ones. I spend time shaping every sound with purpose, using subtle swing and layering to bring a human, groovy feeling to the beat. Tech-house needs soul, even in minimalism.
4. Mix with intention, outsource the polish
While I shape the track and make sure it hits right in the rough mix, I always collaborate with external engineers for the final mix and master. Having a fresh set of ears brings balance, clarity, and punch that really lets the track breathe on big sound systems.
5. Make it for the club – not the algorithm
Everything I do is meant to live in the club. I don’t chase trends or try to make music that just looks good on a playlist. My focus is on energy, tension, and groove – tracks that make people move at 2 a.m. under the strobe, not scroll through a feed.
Massi Rocket’s ‘Baila/Everybodies’ is out now on Motel Calypso Records. Stream and download here.
Follow Massi Rocket: Spotify | Soundcloud | Instagram
