The electronic music community is mourning the loss of Matt Tolfrey, beloved DJ, producer, label founder, and a cornerstone of the UK underground scene. The news of his passing was confirmed earlier today by Damian Lazarus, who described him as someone who “believed in community and bringing people together on and off the dancefloor.”
A visionary artist and curator, Matt Tolfrey’s influence ran deep through house and techno culture. As the founder of Leftroom Records, he carved out a distinct space for left-of-centre, experimental sounds that defied convention. Through his label, events, and infectious passion, he helped foster a sense of togetherness among artists and listeners alike — a community that still bears his imprint today.
Born in England and raised in Bahrain, Matt returned to the UK as a teenager, immersing himself in the Midlands’ club culture before making a mark in Nottingham’s thriving music scene. His early radio show Junk Funk on Fly FM, and residencies at iconic venues like The Bomb and Stealth, laid the groundwork for what would become an extraordinary career.
After releasing his first track on Damian Lazarus’s Crosstown Rebels, Tolfrey launched Leftroom, a label that became synonymous with forward-thinking house and techno throughout the 2000s and 2010s. The imprint’s success led to its own night at T Bar in Shoreditch — a key venue during London’s minimal explosion. Over the years, he collaborated with a host of respected names, including Marshall Jefferson, Lee Curtiss, Kate Simko, and Geddes, while continuing to champion emerging talent.
Tolfrey’s discography includes standout projects such as Don’t Be Leftout (2007), Word of Mouth (2012), and Ten Years of Leftroom (2015). His contribution to the Fabric mix series — Fabric 81 — remains a timeless showcase of his versatile, groove-driven sound. As a DJ, he brought his energy and authenticity to dancefloors across the globe, from Panorama Bar and DC-10 to Burning Man, Space Miami, and beyond.
In later years, Matt shifted focus toward artist development and A&R, launching One 800, a management company representing talents like Archie Hamilton, Jansons, and Mason Collective, while also contributing to Cuttin’ Headz, the label run by The Martinez Brothers.
Matt Tolfrey’s legacy is one of passion, connection, and creativity — a reminder that electronic music at its best is about community as much as it is about sound. He leaves behind his ex-partner Hayley and two daughters, Aria and Beau.
A true original, Matt will be remembered not only for his music, but for the warmth and spirit he brought to everyone around him.