Review: Sasha at Cielo NYC

Sasha returned to New York City to play at Cielo this past Sunday in New York City. Experientially, it was a mixed bag, due largely to club management’s interest in pushing well past the limits of the venue’s 250 person capacity. With advance tickets sold out, ticket prices at the door clocking in at $60, and the long line to get in converting regular attendees into bottle service patrons, Sasha’s performance clearly had to represent a banner night for the space. It’s to be expected that a venue would do their best to capitalize on this much-hyped holiday event but it unfortunately translated to those inside being subjected to a rather caustic environment. Space to dance was virtually non-existent and simple necessities such as access to the coat check, smoking and bathroom areas actually had to be regulated for much of the evening by its own security staff. But let’s move onto the good news…

The music was fantastic! Blk Market membership heads Taimur and Fahad opened up the night, playing a four hour set that began at 9pm and showcased tremendous versatility and range. More traditionally recognized for being champions of a darker techno sound, the boys dug deep to offer a wide range of musical perspectives. They did a great job of presenting a musical journey that elevated excitement and anticipation to a fever pitch before handing over the decks to the evening’s headliner.

Sasha has understandably been laying a bit low over the last few months as he recently welcomed a new child into the world over the summer. As reported on Cielo’s website, he’s seemingly through the toughest part: “We’re out the trenches now, she’s sleeping right through!” If last night’s musical offering was any indication, he’s back and fully ready to rock.  He’s clearly found a way to absorb many of the most up-to-the-minute sounds and create his own unique blend of tech house and techno and while incorporating some of the more melodic builds that are an important aspect of his signature progressive sound.

Perhaps the most interesting thing is that no DJ or fan is immune to the sultry, sex infused sound of Maceo Plex. Plex recently delivered an amazing Essential Mix and continued to have a strong weekend of exposure when Sasha dropped “Stay High Baby” and “Under The Sheets.” Creating his own extended breakdown with each track, Sasha created two of the night’s more memorable climaxes.

The tech house sound proliferated by Crosstown Rebels head Damian Lazarus notably surfaced again when he dropped Laura Jones’ forthcoming “Inner Place.” It’s not shocking that Sasha has selected Damian to share the bill on his legendary Miami boat cruise this March. Acid was certainly on offer as well, as Sasha delved into the 303 generated filth on more than one occasion.

The club’s production staff did a great job in complimenting the sounds Sasha provided using smoke, intelligent lighting, lasers and cryogenic blasts to enhance the sensory overload. Cielo was truly a double edged sword of a venue choice by the Dance.Here.Now. promotional team. With its sunken dance floor and intimate square layout, the sound and visuals worked nicely to create a totally immersive experience. On the same note, such a layout is only as strong as the amount of people who’re given access to it, and when a club is pushed to double capacity it’s not always easy to find the space to enjoy what’s on offer.
 
Listen to Sasha on Pulse Radio.