Standing out in Summit County’s live DJ scene, with its apres ski parties and downtown club nights, takes an extra dose of energy and panache. Don Fuego, which was selected by readers as the Best Local DJ in the 2024 Best of Summit contest, credits those principles for the group’s success.

Corey Van Aken and Mahdi Torabinejad, the musical partners that make up Don Fuego, are longtime collaborators who say their focus on community and fun have helped them make a name for themselves in the High Country. Although the Don Fuego project is just around a year old, Van Aken and Torabinejad have both lived in Summit County for years and say they have enjoyed working with other local DJs to help grow the electronic music scene.

“It’s cool to see a scene here, to see more electronic music around. … At one time, there was no electronic music here, so it’s great to see this thriving community,” Van Aken said.

“We believe the high tide rises all boats. We try to help everyone be successful and try to make sure concert-goers are having a good time when we’re performing,” Torabinejad added.

Van Aken and Torabinejad, who have been collaborating artistically since they were in high school, bring their years of musical chemistry to the Don Fuego project. The two said they share roles in live settings and their main musical language is derived from the energy and vibes of the apres-ski scene.

Rather than just spinning popular songs, Van Aken and Torabinejad are also producers and make original tracks and remixes. They also incorporate live singing and instruments into their sets.

Van Aken said while Don Fuego can often be found playing at High Country ski resorts and resort communities, they also strive to bring the apres-ski energy when playing on the Front Range and elsewhere.

“We’re always high-energy, doing stunts, singing live. There’s videos that have gone viral of people doing stunts at our shows. We just try to create fun, addictive high energy,” he said.

More information about Don Fuego, including original tracks by the duo, can be found on platforms including Instagram, Spotify and Soundcloud.

This story previously published in the Best of Summit guide. See complete results at SummitDaily.com/best.