DJ SO (Satoshi Aoyagi) is a central figure at Mindgames, the people behind The Labyrinth festival, where he plays a supporting role as resident with his delicate blend of ambient and techno. The Japan Times peeks into his record bag.

Golden Oldie: John Tejada — "The End Of It All" (Palette Recordings). One of best tracks I've met. It's great for ending parties with smiles.

New Classic: Efdemin — "Acid Bells (Martyn's Bittersweet Mix)" (Metisse). This isn't dance music, more electronica. After parties, the gentle piano heals my soul.

Floor Filler: Aril Brikha — "Groove La Chord" (Fragile Records). It repeats the same sample and then brings up the dance-floor little by little with the gradual use of the filter. Killer techno.

Must-Listen: Adam Marshall — "North At Night" (Cynosure). This tune is also not dance music. It merges quiet, nostalgic melody with an impressive chord progression. It's a superb atmospheric chill-out track.

DJ SO will play at The Labyrinth in Naeba, Niigata Prefecture, on Sept. 17-19. For more information, visit www.mindgames.jp or www.djso.jp.