Originally from Guatemala and now based in Southern California, Groove Trooper has built a reputation for creating music that reflects both his cultural heritage and his passion for house music.
Released on 26 June 2026 through UFO Recordz, “Bathi” is the newest release from Groove Trooper, combining tribal percussion, Afro house influences, and deep, rolling grooves into a smooth, understated production. Built around organic rhythms and rich textures, the track delivers an immersive atmosphere that works just as well in a club setting as it does for personal listening.
Originally from Guatemala and now residing in Southern California, Groove Trooper draws inspiration from his roots while embracing the timeless spirit of house music. His signature style blends driving percussion, flowing basslines, and Spanish vocal elements, resulting in productions that feel authentic, energetic, and instantly recognizable.
With “Bathi,” Groove Trooper leans into a warm, hypnotic tribal sound, allowing the music to evolve through subtle layering and steady rhythmic development. Instead of chasing high-impact drops, the track gradually builds an engaging groove that keeps listeners connected from start to finish, creating a natural sense of movement and depth.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
1. Congratulations on the release of “Bathi.” What inspired the track, and what story or feeling were you hoping to capture through the music?
Thank you! And thank you guys for believing in it! I wanted to create something that felt deep and meaningful, even if you don’t understand what the lyrics are. I wanted a “crescendo” feeling and let the music lift the listener up as the track progressed. I feel I was able to accomplish that.
2. “Bathi” has a laid-back tribal Afro house vibe. What drew you to this particular sound for your latest release?
My productions are usually aimed towards a high energy, “let’s party” feel. But once in a while I like making something that tugs at people’s feelings. Afro house is the perfect genre for that and once I started creating it I couldn’t stop. The more it came together, the more I wanted to chase that laid back, tribal, uplifting feeling.
3. Your Guatemalan heritage plays an important role in your music. How do your cultural roots influence the way you produce and perform?
My mom and stepdad used to hang out and dance at a Salsa studio in Guatemala City. I met all of their friends, instructor, and basically got thrown in that scene and absolutely loved it! I try to bring those Latin grooves to the music I make and every show I play.
4. Big drums, deep basslines, and Spanish vocals have become part of your signature style. How do you keep those elements feeling fresh with each new release?
My favorite thing about music production is that there’s more than one way to do ANYTHING!! But if I had to narrow it down…I’d say drums are about the empty space, not the hard hits up front, the bass line comes next to give it that pump, the kick is introduced by finding the right one AND in the right key, and lastly, the Spanish vocals need to ride the wave you’ve created…next thing you know you’re debuting a new track at a show and there is no better feeling than seeing people groove to what you’ve made!
5. You balance your music career alongside military service. How has that experience shaped your work ethic and creative process?
It has taught me to manage my time better. It’s tough sometimes but I love everything I do, both in uniform and out. With that said, I do know my schedule tends to get overextended and my music career has suffered for it. Specifically after my last deployment. I came back and it felt I had to start from scratch. Some of the connections I had were either gone, or didn’t remember me at all haha. But I feel like I’ve been able to find my groove again and things are moving steadily.
6. Through your radio show, Rhythm & Villainy Radio, you’ve helped showcase both your own music and other artists. What has hosting the show taught you about the electronic music community?
I’ve met some amazing, talented people throughout my career. But I’ve also seen others who think “success” means every man for himself. Competition is essential in the music business. It’s what drives us to be better, learn to produce better music, practice and hone our skills behind the decks, but that doesn’t mean we can’t collaborate and lift each other up. That’s why I do my radio show. So I can share the music I love, and those talented people I’ve been fortunate enough to cross paths with, and we can grow other.
7. When producing “Bathi,” did you picture a particular setting or dancefloor where you imagined people experiencing the track?
Yes…but only once the drums and the bells synth were finished and I listened to it. The image that came to mind was that of a place I have actually been before. It’s called Hotel Camino Real located in Peten, Guatemala. They have a beach at the lake and the sunsets are amazing. I imagined the crowd, the music, the beach…gave me the chills!
8. Afro house continues to grow globally. What excites you most about the genre’s evolution, and where do you see it heading next?
It truly is taking over, and I love seeing it. With the release of “Bathi” I feel like I’m now part of that growth. It can only get better from here. More artists are embracing the genre, there are plenty of events here in SOCAL that feature it, and the people are reacting to it in a positive way. I only see it getting more popular!
9. Looking back on your journey from Guatemala to Southern California, what have been the biggest milestones in your career so far?
The moment when I play something I’ve made, and I see the crowd dance to it, that right there is the milestone I cherish the most. There’s no better feeling!
10. With “Bathi” now released on UFO Recordz, what can fans expect from Groove Trooper over the rest of 2026?
I’m always working on new music, so definitely expect new tracks from me before the year is out. What I’m really excited about is the show I’m playing in LA next month! It’s called KINGDOM and after 3 years since my last performance at the event, I CAN NOT WAIT to be back on that stage. It’s going to be awesome!
UFO Network brings you music news daily! See more news here
Listen on Spotify
Connect with Groove Trooper
