MUSIC FOR YOUR EARS | REVIEW By Your Side By DJ Roko feat Novaman

DJ Roko’s latest release, By Your Side, featuring Novaman, is a remarkable
representation of the artist’s evolving sound, deeply rooted in the heart of electronic
dance music (EDM) yet rich in cross-genre influences. Roko, formerly known as
Roland Kieff, continues to build a solid reputation within the EDM scene with each new
release, and this track is no exception. With its infectious energy, vibrant production,
and heart-warming dedication to family, By Your Side is poised to become a staple on
the dancefloor.
The track distinguishes itself through its skilful fusion of disco-house elements with a
modern EDM flair. Right from the first note, listeners are pulled into a vibrant
soundscape. The choppy, Nile Rodgers-esque guitar licks provide an instantly
recognisable funk undertone, while the samba agogo rhythms infuse the track with a
Latin-inspired liveliness. The marriage of these elements gives the song a fresh,
energetic pulse that draws on nostalgia while pushing forward with modern production
techniques.
DJ Roko has often mentioned that family is a central theme in his life, and this personal
inspiration shines through in the lyrics and overall feel of By Your Side. The song’s
message of unity and togetherness is effortlessly woven into the fabric of its sonic
structure. The chorus, led by an auto-tuned vocal sample, is both catchy and uplifting,
embodying the celebratory spirit that Roko intended to channel. The warmth and
sincerity in the track’s intent deeply connect with listeners on a deeper level, offering
more than just a danceable beat but also an emotional connection to the universal
themes of love and support.
Instrumentally, the track is a masterclass in house production. Roko builds layers of
sound with precision, creating a groove that is irresistible from start to finish. The bell-
like percussion complements the shifting bassline, giving the track a rhythm that propels
it forward with fluid momentum. The four-to-the-floor kick drum pattern, a hallmark of
house music, adds a driving force to the production, ensuring the song will keep any
dancefloor alive. Novaman’s contribution to the track is equally impressive. His flow-
switching performance brings a dynamic element to the song, adding to the already
energised production with smooth vocal delivery that contrasts nicely with the
instrumental’s tight, polished sound.
What truly elevates By Your Side is DJ Roko’s ability to mix dramatic drops and
compelling beats with memorable melodies. His production draws listeners in, crafting
a sound that is both forward-thinking and nostalgic. It is easy to see why Roko cites
influences like Calvin Harris, David Guetta, and Tiësto, yet his sound also bears traces
of earlier electronic pioneers such as Depeche Mode, Human League, and Kraftwerk.
The result is a track that feels timeless, appealing to long-time fans of dance music
while engaging new listeners with its fresh and eclectic approach.

Roko’s journey to this point has been marked by perseverance and growth. His move
from the West Midlands to Glasgow has seen him transform from a local DJ into a
multifaceted artist who is constantly pushing the boundaries of his craft. In By Your
Side, this artistic evolution is evident not only in the technical sophistication of the
production but also in the emotional depth that the track conveys. Despite the high-
energy pace of the song, there is a sensitivity at its core that speaks to Roko’s ability to
balance both the heart and the mind in his music. The track is at once exhilarating and
thoughtful, a combination that is difficult to achieve in a genre often characterised by its
pursuit of pure energy.
The sonic textures of By Your Side are equally impressive. From the punchy EDM
rhythms to the slick guitar riffs, Roko masterfully integrates a wide range of elements
into the song without making it feel cluttered or overwhelming. The track feels
spacious, allowing each sound to breathe and interact with the others. Novaman’s
vocals, processed through light autotune, add a modern twist, making the song feel fresh
and contemporary without sacrificing emotional impact. There is a balance here that
few producers achieve: a harmony between organic instrumentation and electronic
manipulation that sets the track apart from many of its peers in the genre.
By Your Side is not just a technical achievement but a piece that feels designed to uplift
its audience. Whether played in a crowded club or through a pair of headphones, the
track’s energy is electric, its rhythm fascinating, and its message universally relatable.
The way DJ Roko plays with tempo, building up the tension before releasing it in epic
drops, highlights his talent for keeping listeners hooked, anticipating every twist and
turn in the arrangement. It is clear that every element in this track has been carefully
thought out and executed with precision, from the groovy bassline to the shimmering
synths that cut through the mix like a laser beam across the dancefloor.
All in all, DJ Roko’s By Your Side is a triumphant display of his talents as both a
producer and a storyteller. With its absorbing groove, vibrant production, and heartfelt
message, the track delivers on all fronts. It exemplifies Roko’s ability to combine the
euphoria of dance music with deeper emotional themes, creating a song that lingers long
after the final beat drops. Whether you’re a die-hard EDM fan or a casual listener, By
Your Side offers something for everyone — inviting you to dance, reflect, and celebrate
the joy of being together. This is a release that firmly cements DJ Roko’s place as a
rising star in the electronic music scene, and it’s only a matter of time before he
becomes a household name.