Since their massive 2020 3x disc compilation, Parabellum Detroit (Upstairs Asylum Recordings), Delano Smith and Rick Wilhite have kept its impact going with rare and unique b2b DJ sets. On January 27, 2023, see the two original Detroit selectors descend onto H0l0 as MeanRed welcomes Parabellum to New York City for an evening of intimate setting playing in the round, as only the Motor City’s best can provide.

The duo of Delano Smith and Rick Wilhite need little introduction and have enjoyed long and respected solo careers. Smith is one of the last remaining of Detroit’s original DJ crop. Active since the late 70s with a sound fusing Soul, Disco, and the seeds of Electronica, Smith has since honed musical direction all his own. His raw, stripped-back take on what would now be known as House has seen release on Third Ear, Beatdown, Sushitech, and his Mixmode imprint.

Rick Wilhite, another Detroit native son, has dedicated his life to the beat. His eclectic DJ sets include everything from R&B to Reggae, with House and Disco as their heart and soul. Whether under his own name or numerous aliases like DOC, Tech-12, or The Godson, Wilhite’s output has been active since the mid-80s. It is a discography that includes work alongside pioneers like Juan Atkins, Marcellus Pittman, Kenny Dixon Jr, and Theo Parrish.

Joining Parabellum on the night will also be Ataxia. Another Detroit legend, albeit for the new school, the duo has released on imprints like Planet E!, !K7, Visionquest, Nervous, and Leftroom. Known for oddball rave anthems dotted with saturated with punk roots, in 2022 Ataxia released their debut LP, Out of Step via DJ Tennis’ renowned Life & Death.