Austin Tango Marathon DJs

Our 2025 Lineup

Fil Cruz Jr. 

Fil loves dancing Argentine tango and the tango music. Having been a DJ since 2006 in Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio, he’s excited to see how Argentine tango affects so many people in so many ways. Fil is continually on the search for those rare tracks, transfers and new recordings of tango music. He has assembled an eclectic collection of both traditional, nuevo and alternative tango music, which he uses to connect with the dancers and their energy. When Fil is DJing, the milonga usually runs into overtime. He also hosts the weekly Austin Tango Practica every Sunday at 7 p.m. It’s Austin’s longest running practica since 1996.

Francesco Paolo Tuzzoliino

Professionally known as DJ Martini, Francesco started his DJing journey in Houston in 2005. Quickly making a name for himself in the house music scene, he played for prominent events such as the Versace Fashion Show and MINI Cooper grand opening, establishing a firm footing in the DJ scene. Francesco took up Argentine tango dancing in 2007. This newfound love for tango led Francesco to Buenos Aires. By 2018, he was drawing on his passion for music to craft tango sets with a traditional and contemporary twist. This unique approach bridged the gap between classic tango rhythms and modern musical sensibilities, earning him recognition in local milongas and festivals in the U.S., Europe, and Argentina. Francesco remains a regular presence in Buenos Aires Milongas, constantly evolving and refining his sound and dance.

Aran Gharibpour

Aran is a tango dancer and DJ based in Austin, Texas, where he runs a monthly alternative milonga. Aran’s sets consist of cross-genre pieces that do not fit into the traditional canon of tango music. These sets include classic nuevo pieces by the likes of Astor Piazzolla, electronic neo tango works of last three decades by bands such as Seoan, tango ensembles with non-Spanish singers such as TangEsta, neo tango compositions that carry the emotional intimacy of tango, as in works of Nina Simone and Buika, and any original compositions in the tango world that does not get played often in the traditional milongas, such as the new compositions of Típica Messiez.

Rafael Rafa

In his work as a DJ, Rafael strives to balance melodic and rhythmic orchestras, instrumental and vocal, and typically plays two tangos and one waltz, two tangos and one milonga, switching to a 3-1-3-1‬ sequence depending on the energy on the dance floor.
He considers the dancers to be one of the most important elements of DJing, as they are the ones who give him feedback. Rafael has been DJing in Europe, Russia, Brazil, the United States, and Argentina for over 10 years and has received very positive feedback from milonga regulars.

Greg McGary

Greg has been a frequent traveler to festivals and marathons for more than a decade, averaging a dozen events per year, where it has been his pleasure and privilege to dance to the music of many superb DJs. He plays only the best and most danceable music from the Golden Age. He shapes the flow of energy throughout the milonga, building to exuberant or dramatic climaxes, then softening into smooth flow, sweet or elegant. Contrast is key, so he offers a range of favorites to suit a variety of tastes and preferences, though he does admit that the irresistible pulse of higher-energy music is first among equals!

Rod Relucio

Rod is a renowned Argentine tango dancer, instructor, and DJ based in Chicago. He is known for his innovative and eye-catching tango style. He blends traditional tango with a unique, innovative approach influenced by his background in hip hop and street dancing. Rod is also known for creating a party atmosphere.

  • Dancer & Performer: He has performed extensively in several venues worldwide.
    Instructor: He teaches tango classes, focusing on connection, musicality, and technique. He emphasizes a comfortable embrace and natural movement.
    Travel & Study: He annually spends time studying with tango masters in Buenos Aires.