Mall Grab

Australian house producer Jordan Alexander (aka Mall Grab) took his moniker from the sarcastic term used when someone holds a skateboard incorrectly — with the grip tape rubbing against their clothes — which is typical of people who use one as an accessory; the name hints at the fun-loving nature behind Alexander’s productions and his often cheeky demeanor. Born in Newcastle, Australia, Alexander was originally inspired by his parents’ rock & roll record collection, but when he hit his teens he developed a love of electronic and dance music, specifically electro and the rise of the Ed Banger crew. As his taste matured, Alexander found an affinity with dusty, understated house cuts, leading to his debut EP, 2015′s Feel U, which saw release on Canadian label Collect-Call; despite being the label’s first unknown signing, the EP quickly sold out. The sudden attention set off a string of Mall Grab releases on U.K. labels, all with a slightly different flavor, including the airy tones of Alone via Shall Not Fade, the nocturnal vibe on Elegy via 1080p, and the sultry aesthetic on the Sun Ra EP released on Church. By 2016, Alexander was in high demand throughout Europe, prompting his relocation to London, which set the stage for an incredibly prolific year. He kicked off 2016 with the release of his much-sought-after Alicia Keys edit, “Let U Kno,” on Hokkaido Dance Club just before he began his monthly residency at Rinse FM. In the summer of 2016, he also launched his own record label, Steel City Dance Discs, formed as a sub-label of Shall Not Fade. 2016 was rounded out with two more EPs, Menace II Society for Unknown to the Unknown — which showcased a harder edge — and I Just Wanna on Hot Haus Records — featuring the disco-infused title track. The following year saw the release of the Pool Party EP, which, as the name implies, had a far brighter sound with obvious nods to hip-hop and summer jams. ~ Liam Martin