Extraordinarily talented DJ-producer, multi-instrumentalist, and engineer dot delivers an authentic and groundbreaking musical journey with her new EP, begin again, out November 22 on the influential Mau5trap label. This five-track project highlights her unbounded creativity, emotional depth, and innovative sound design, showcasing her ability to craft immersive, escapist grooves.
Produced in the serene mountains of Sun Valley, Idaho, begin again draws inspiration from the landscapes where dot finds solace and clarity. “This EP is about finding the strength to start over when you feel like giving up,” dot shares, reflecting on her creative process away from the constraints of urban life and traditional studio spaces.
“‘Begin Again’ is a love letter to the producer I was 14 years ago: unjaded and overflowing with ideas,” she explains. “It doesn’t fit neatly into current genres or scenes, but that wouldn’t be authentic to me. My hope is that this music inspires new artists to create as themselves, for themselves. And if you feel like an outsider, go outside.”
A Genre-Defying Sonic Journey
The EP is a masterclass in boundary-pushing sound:
- “Millennium” captivates with broken jungle beats, emotive vocal samples, and twisted synths that form an irresistible hook.
- “Stay Forever” blends tender chords, filtered vocals, and intricate drums into an enthralling soundscape.
- “The Search” delivers introspection through lush pads and signature vocal beauty, sinking into deeper grooves.
- “So Good” captures the raw energy of its creation in a remote yurt in the Sawtooth Mountains, combining exotic strings, shimmering pads, and organic beats into a unique sonic escape.
- The title track, “begin again,” closes with soothing synths, piano chords, and persuasive drums that amplify the emotional resonance of the EP.
About dot
Born in Washington, Kate Ellwanger—known as dot—is a forward-thinking producer reshaping the electronic music scene. Her versatile sound has graced Spotify playlists like Fresh Finds and Creamy, with widespread support from BBC Radio 1Xtra, Apple’s Chilltronics, and more.
Dot’s career spans scoring projects for Nike, MTV, and Laura Mercier, producing for SZA in her early days, and sharing stages with icons like Doja Cat. Her unique artistry has been showcased at marquee events like EDC Las Vegas, Red Rocks, and HARD Summer.
Beyond the Music
Dot is committed to amplifying underrepresented voices in music through her label, Unspeakable Records, which has supported numerous female-identifying artists. Her passion for innovation extends to Web3 platforms like Catalog and Sound.xyz, where she has become a top-selling artist.
A triathlete and Ironman competitor, dot merges her love for music, action sports, and the outdoors, creating in natural spaces that inspire her artistry. Whether hosting pop-up shows in nature or crafting tracks from her van-turned-mobile studio, dot’s mission is to blend music culture with outdoor adventures.
Conclusion
With its blend of delicate melodies, crisp percussion, and visceral drops, begin again is a superb testament to dot’s growth and versatility. This EP is a must-listen for fans of boundary-breaking electronic music.
Dot’s begin again EP is out November 22 via Mau5trap.
