Detroit Swindle

Detroit Swindle is a Dutch DJ and production duo from Amsterdam. The group consists of Lars Dales and Maarten Smeets, and is active from 2012 until 2020. It is known for deep house and electronic music with influences from Detroit-inspired house.

Background and sound

The pair have a similar musical upbringing, shaped by Motown soul, funk, hip-hop and jazz. They meet through a shared interest in deep house and develop a style that combines classic soul influences with melodic grooves, jazzy chords and bass-heavy rhythms. Their approach centres on music that is suited to dancing and is rooted in house and techno.

Releases and labels

Their first releases appear in 2012. That year they issue the Starvin EP on Saints & Sonnets, followed by a second EP on Dirt Crew. A further EP, B.OST.ON, is released on Murmur, and later in 2012 they put out an EP on Freerange. Their work also includes a follow-up EP for Dirt Crew and remixes for Medlar, Homework, Deep Future and Zoo Look. They are associated with Heist Recordings and Detroit Swindle Publishing.

Reception and performances

Their releases receive support from artists including Laurent Garnier, DJ Sneak, Eats Everything and Jimpster. One release earns a double 9.0 review in DJ Mag. As live and DJ performers, they appear at venues including Panorama Bar, Tresor and Zoo Project, building a profile in international club culture.

Later name change

From November 2020, the duo is known as Dam Swindle.