Who is TRICKSTAR?

Powerhouses Ookay and Balio come together to create the iconic TRICKSTAR. This duo brings a fresh new perspective to dance music with their irresistible trap hits, combining the sounds from the Golden Era of trap while adding their own unique spin. The innovative sound of TRICKSTAR has shown why this duo is skyrocketing in the scene.

Their “Big Boys” collaboration with the musical legend Marshmello and distinguished hip-hop star Lil Jon has over one million Spotify streams. The bass-heavy reinvented spin that Barely Alive & YDG remixed of “Big Boys” is able to boast the same.

Coming from their set at Hollywood Palladium at Tape B’s sold out show and their EP “LAUGHING STOCK” pop-up in Heds on Melrose, TRICKSTAR has captivated the scene by storm.

The TRICKSTAR Experience

Be ready to dance. And I mean dance. This duo knows how to get a party started. Whether a sold-out venue or a pop-up, the crowd (and myself) were ready to move and groove once TRICKSTAR started playing. Their sound pays homage to classic trap, but their curated vibe and perspective on the trap sound is insane. From house to baile funk to techno to hip-hop influences, the journey TRICKSTAR takes you on is mind-blowing, and a fun journey at that.

The people love a pop-up. As the EDM industry as a whole rises, shows start to get only more and more packed out. I’ve done my fair share of pop-ups in the craziest places. Burger shop, skate park, KBBQ, beach, and much more. You name it, I’ve been there for a rave.

TRICKSTAR is no stranger to this. Earlier in 2024 they played at Fat Sal’s Deli in Culver City, and my most recent event was at Heds store on the iconic Melrose Avenue in March 2025. The feeling of seeing TRICKSTAR at Hollywood Palladium for Tape B’s sold out show was electric. The same energy carried over to their pop-up last week, showcasing their "LAUGHING STOCK" EP as the debut release on Insomniac's Break Room Records. The energy was insane for both shows, but the intimacy of a pop-up event is a feeling people seek. To be only footsteps away from your favorite artists, dancing along-side people who love the music, is a feeling that people will only crave more and more as the popularity of pop-ups continues. And TRICKSTAR is the perfect duo to curate this experience that many look for.

The Trap Renaissance

The past years have shown one clear message. Trap is back and bigger than ever. It is undeniable the influence trap has had in the scene. Listening to Skrillex’s new album, you could see how the legend himself has taken trap influences for many of the tracks. Festival trap itself is selling out shows and packing out venues. It is an amazing time for trap music as a whole, for the old and the new to unite under such an iconic genre.

Listening to TRICKSTAR feels like a love letter to classic trap of the golden era, while bringing a fresh new spin. TRICKSTAR does it all, and they do it well. From sub low bass influences to baile funk influences on their tracks, you never know what this duo is going to do next. And we can’t wait for more.

What’s Next for TRICKSTAR?

Take a listen to their debut EP “LAUGHING STOCK” out now! For our Houston friends, catch them Saturday April 5th at the Warehouse Live Midtown!

My personal favorite off the EP is “SENTA”. From the funky trap drop to the bouncy 4-on-the-floor, it is an absolute party-starter for the dance floor.

Connect with the artists:

TRICKSTAR: Instagram | Spotify

Find TRICKSTAR and more that we are listening to on The LA Raver Essentials Spotify playlist!

See you at the rave!