Santa Cruz DJ Neumonic brings local beats to national stages

UCSC graduate Nick Neumann, known as DJ Neumonic, is making waves in the electronic music scene with his diverse sound.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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DJ Neumonic, the stage name of UCSC graduate Nick Neumann, is bringing the Santa Cruz sound to some of the biggest music festivals in the world, including Red Rocks and Coachella. Neumonic is known for his versatile DJ style, blending genres like UK garage, house, techno, dubstep, and drum and bass. His latest release, the Deadbeats EP, showcases his ability to seamlessly transition between these different styles.

Why it matters

Neumonic's success highlights the vibrant music scene in Santa Cruz, which has produced talented artists like him who are making a name for themselves nationally. His ability to transcend genre boundaries and appeal to a wide audience is a testament to the creativity and innovation coming out of the local community.

The details

Neumonic has been a fixture in the Santa Cruz music scene, working as a stagehand at the UCSC Quarry Amphitheater while also building a dedicated following for his DJ performances. During the pandemic, he even brought his equipment to Lighthouse Point and put on renegade outdoor shows to connect with fans. His versatile sound and willingness to experiment with different genres have helped him stand out in the crowded electronic music landscape.

  • Neumonic has been a house and techno DJ, a dubstep DJ, and a drum and bass DJ since his early days in the Santa Cruz music scene.
  • His latest release, the Deadbeats EP, was his biggest label placement yet and showcased his ability to blend various electronic music styles.

The players

Neumonic

The stage name of UCSC graduate Nick Neumann, a DJ known for his diverse sound that blends genres like UK garage, house, techno, dubstep, and drum and bass.

UCSC Quarry Amphitheater

The venue where Neumonic has worked as a stagehand, gaining valuable experience in the production side of the music industry.

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What they’re saying

“I'm known for garage—UK garage is my bread and butter. But when I DJ, I DJ everything.”

— Neumonic (Good Times)

“I don't like to get fully cratered into a genre. That's what has made me stand out.”

— Neumonic (Good Times)

The takeaway

Neumonic's success as a DJ who has transcended genre boundaries and brought the Santa Cruz sound to national stages is a testament to the vibrant and innovative music scene in the local community. His willingness to experiment and his ability to connect with a wide audience make him a rising star in the electronic music world.