Review: Darius Kept Austin Dancing With Captivating Set at Empire Garage
REVIEW
REVIEW
☆ BY SOPHIE GRAGG ☆
FRENCH DJ AND PRODUCER DARIUS returned to Austin last night for a show at Empire Garage, and once again proved why he’s one of the most captivating names in electronic music. Known for his sleek blend of French house, nu-disco, and funk-infused beats, Darius has been steadily carving out a global following with projects like Oasis and Utopia, both of which highlight his gift for turning hazy, melodic grooves into tracks that feel both hypnotic and joyful.
This was my third time catching Darius in Austin, and his sets never lose their magic. From the first beat, he had the crowd moving — dancing, swaying, and fully locked into his rhythm. What makes Darius’s live presence so memorable isn’t just the smoothness of his music, but the way he embodies it. He radiates joy behind the decks, smiling, bouncing, and clearly having just as much fun as the audience. That authenticity translates into an energy that fills the room.
The visuals on the screen behind him were minimal yet colorful, with bright washes and playful patterns that perfectly suited his sound. They weren’t overdone, instead, they felt like the ideal backdrop to his music, creating an atmosphere that was immersive without ever distracting from the performance itself.
Austin crowds love to dance, and Darius gave them plenty to move to. His set was captivating from start to finish, reminding me once again why seeing him live is such a treat. His music is effortless, fun, and deeply infectious - the kind of sound that lingers long after the night is over.
