The genre-defying American duo bring organic instrumentation, global influences, and cinematic depth to the latest chapter of The Beauty Of It All remix series
Following acclaimed reinterpretations from Maxi Meraki, Yamagucci, and Curol, the remix series surrounding Monolink’s The Beauty Of It All takes a striking turn with the arrival of Dirtwire’s reimagining of “Mesmerized.” Released via Embassy One, the American duo transform the original into something far more meditative and organic, replacing dancefloor urgency with an expansive sense of atmosphere, introspection, and sonic exploration.
Built around Dirtwire’s signature palette of world instruments, including kamale ngonis, jaw harps, bowed strings, and their unmistakable blend of electronic production, the remix feels less like a traditional rework and more like a complete reimagining. The result is an ethereal listening experience that unfolds slowly, inviting listeners into a space where ancient traditions and contemporary sound design coexist.
That balance between old and new has always been central to Dirtwire’s identity.
“It started for us with an appreciation for global music cultures introduced to us by our parents’ music collection,” explains co-founder Evan Fraser. “We met at CalArts, which was this incredible revolving door of talented artists and teachers. It expanded our horizons, gave us permission to be adventurous, and helped us develop our own creative language.”
After early experiments in Los Angeles, including performing with a psychedelic funk band and converting a tour bus to run on recycled vegetable oil, the project evolved through instrument collecting, software experimentation, and a growing fascination with global musical traditions. Those experiences laid the groundwork for a sound that has continued to evolve through years of touring, collaboration, and cultural exploration.
Dirtwire’s music has always resisted easy categorization. Fans have described it as everything from “swamptronica” and “electro-twang” to “space cowboy blues,” but those labels only begin to hint at the breadth of influences flowing through the project.
“All of our travels have shaped our collective musical experience,” Fraser says. “We live on an incredibly rich musical planet. Each region is sculpted by its environment, and the instruments, materials, plants, and animals all help shape the sounds that emerge from it.”
Among the many musical traditions that have influenced Dirtwire, Fraser points to Africa and its diaspora as particularly formative.
“I’d say Africa and its diaspora have had the biggest impact on me personally. Most of the music I’m drawn to has come from there either directly or indirectly. Rhythm and grooves light me up and get me going.”
That curiosity extends far beyond simply borrowing sounds. Respect, context, and understanding are essential components of Dirtwire’s creative process.
“We’re inspired by the sound itself,” Fraser explains. “But respect is key. We like learning about the culture and context an instrument comes from. With permission and blessing from teachers or collaborators, we begin experimenting with those sounds ourselves. The goal is to bring greater respect and awareness to the traditions and people behind them.”
This philosophy is especially evident in their reinterpretation of “Mesmerized.” Rather than overwhelming the original with production tricks, Dirtwire allows the song to breathe, creating space for texture, resonance, and emotion.
The challenge of balancing organic instrumentation with modern electronic production is something the band has spent years refining.
“By exploring, experimenting, and following your ears, you can find a way to balance all the ingredients,” says Fraser. “Ideally, the music moves people physically, spiritually, and cerebrally. There’s no one way to do it. It’s about being open to possibilities, happy accidents, and supporting organic sounds with beats and bass.”
For Dirtwire, music has never been just about genre. It functions simultaneously as a cultural exchange, a creative experiment, and a spiritual practice.
“All of the above,” says David Satori when asked how he views the project. “We’ve been playing music together since college, so we’ve developed a language and way of relating that goes very deep. We’re constantly exploring cultures and traditions from around the world. It feels like a spiritual practice when we get down to it. There’s a spirit—or many spirits—that we tap into when the music is truly flowing.”
That spiritual dimension is particularly evident in the group’s live performances, which have earned a reputation as communal, immersive experiences. In recent years, the band has begun ending shows by bringing drums directly into the audience and forming spontaneous drum circles.
“It gets primal,” Satori says. “People let go unlike they have before. It taps into something deep within all of us that just wants to be together in community, dancing and making music.”
That sense of connection feels increasingly important at a time when technology continues to reshape how music is created and consumed. While Dirtwire remains fascinated by emerging tools, they approach them with caution.
“I’m very intrigued by what AI is capable of as a composer,” Satori admits. “I like using it to explore ideas and possibilities. But I’m wary of artists relying on it as a crutch. AI is a tool, not a shortcut. I always encourage musicians to learn their craft and put in the time.”
Looking ahead, Dirtwire shows no signs of slowing down their exploration. New influences continue to emerge, particularly from Latin America, South Asia, and the Middle East, alongside developments in contemporary electronic bass music.
“I’m excited to dive deeper into our Latin and South American influences,” Satori says. “Also Indian and Middle Eastern sounds, as well as what’s happening with faster tempos in electronic bass music. It’s always a journey balancing all these influences, and we’re excited to keep cooking in the kitchen.”
With their remix of “Mesmerized,” Dirtwire offer a powerful reminder that electronic music can still feel deeply human. Rather than chasing immediacy or formula, they create space for reflection, curiosity, and wonder. In doing so, they transform Monolink’s original into something entirely new—a sonic ritual that feels simultaneously ancient and futuristic.
If The Beauty Of It All remix series has been about uncovering new dimensions within Monolink’s work, Dirtwire’s contribution may be its most transformative chapter yet: less a remix than a spiritual transmission, carrying listeners between worlds through rhythm, texture, and imagination.
