Escort

Released in 2011, Escort's self-titled debut served as a pivotal moment in the disco revival of the early 2010s. Founded by producers Eugene Cho and Dan Balis, the project distinguished itself by eschewing the 'laptop producer' trope in favor of a massive 17-piece live band. This approach resulted in a record that sounds remarkably organic and physically present compared to the more digitized nu-disco of the era. The album includes their breakout cover of Dillinger's 'Cocaine Blues,' reimagined as a sleek dancefloor anthem, alongside original compositions like 'Starlight' and 'Caméleon Chameleon.' Critically, the album was praised for its impeccable musicianship and its ability to capture the authentic spirit of the Great American Disco era (1977-1980) while maintaining a contemporary Brooklyn edge. It remains a benchmark for live-instrumentation dance music, blending funk, soul, and house into a seamless, high-fashion package.