Luciano - Vagabundos 2012

Luciano
Vagabundos 2012
Cadenza

Born in Switzerland and raised in Santiago, Luciano was destined to be cool, right? That kind of heritage just oozes style. Still, he didn't have it all his own way, being bullied in his early days as a techno DJ with unhappy rock fans stubbing ciggies out on his vinyl. Sticking to his guns, Luciano built up a solid following and upon landing in Ibiza for the first time decided right there and then not to leave. What a decision that was. After instigating the outrageously popular outdoor parties at Ushuaia, Luciano now runs the Sunday night Vagabundos parties at Pacha along with being top dog of his own Cadenza label. The man has foresight, skill and style and the word has spread from Ibiza to the world.

Which brings us to his latest commercial mix, 'Vagabundos 2012'. The album has it all; house, techno, minimal and everything in between including a little balearic beat, which according to Cadenza has only one rule: There are no rules. An attitude that flows freely throughout the mix.

It's tough to attempt to dissect 'Vagabundos 2012'. Whilst it morphs from one style to the next so many times, the changes are so perfectly disguised that by the time you realise what has happened you forget where you were to begin with. It's like stumbling through some sort of labyrinth being intrigued by it's beauty, mystery and darkness all at once. This sense of brilliant bewilderment stems from Luciano's molecular mixing. As Cadenza puts it, "Luciano uses digital DJing technology to deconstruct tracks and re-construct them into any shape he chooses, allowing him to mix parts from up to four different tracks at once. Playing this way, Luciano is able to blend loops, basslines, vocals, hi hats, and melodies together in ways that vinyl or CDs could never allow him to do". The result of this style is a mix with incredible depth, versatility and dare I say it, beauty.

In order to be properly enjoyed I recommend setting aside 76 minutes and letting yourself go, however I will mention a couple of tracks specifically. 'BBQ Bounce' by BBQ has a kick-ass scale style bassline which continues onto '90' by Pompeya, which I am sure will have me tapping to the end of my days. Then there are three tracks which were made to be played back to back; 'Clap Your Hands' by Zakes Bantwini feat. Xola, 'Dreamer' from Dani Casarano, Felipe Valenzuela and Damien Muller and then 'Don Quixote' by El Pocho. This section of the album is most certainyl its highlight - the depth and exquisite style Luciano shows both in track selection and mixing here cannot be faulted.

I cannot speak highly enough of this album. There is no need for a well balanced, catchy sign off to sway you into a purchase. Quite simply, listening to it will make you happy. What else is music for?

Listen to Luciano on Pulse Radio