A star on the rise, DJ Soul Child AC has just dropped his genre-blending new album.

By Graeme Smith

Based in Atlantic City, USA, the DJ, producer, and influencer has already been getting plenty of attention even before the release of his full-length debut.

With half a million monthly listeners on Spotify and a million followers across his socials, he clearly knows how to draw an audience and keep them loyal. Through his debut album, Douby, it’s easy to see why. With it, he touches on plenty of hot topics while remembering to have some fun.

Combining throwback references with modern day social commentary, Douby feels both part of the zeitgeist and deliberately and defiantly an antithesis to it. Its eclecticism is held together by its hip-hop sensibilities, delivering what aficionados of the genre crave while not alienating more casual listeners.

It feels like an album born from DJ Soul Child AC’s Jersey club background and would play comfortably on the dancefloor. Yet, it’s also an outward-facing album, drawing influence from around the world.

An energy and lively rhythm runs through each of its fifteen tracks as he seamlessly blends hip-hop, house, soul, Brazilian funk and more. An attention to detail when it comes to beats and construction keep the eclectic elements together while a cavalcade of contributors lends the collection diversity in voice and style. The choice of samples lean into the timeless.

Tracks like Sao Paulo and Kitty Kat Kat bring the big beats, taking us down euphoric avenues, while tracks like Envy and More To The Music are more politically charged. There’s space for introspection too, such as the vibrant and sensual Kick Back, and the moody I Don’t Want Em.

Eat It Up’s pure pop sensibilities and infectious groove make it a highlight, as is album closer Studio 54 which channels the spirit of ‘70s disco, bringing it right up to date.

Douby is a hell of a debut. DJ Soul Child AC shows he’s a player without any fear, clearly stating his point of view while giving new listeners plenty to welcome them in. It’s a party album with intelligence. What more can you ask?

It all goes to show that he’s an artist who is as savvy as he is talented. It’s not an exaggeration to say he’s a star in the making. This debut feels like just a start.

Douby is set for release on 27 February 2026. You can pre-order and pre-save it via DJ Soul Child AC’s website.