This year has been an experience of learning for me musically. There have been a few magical moments. As well there have been low points. Through all of the ups and downs, however I can say without hesitation my year in music has been quite fruitful.
Earlier this year a good friend and mentor; Cordell Johnson introduced me to the music of a very talented DJ and burgeoning producer Sol Ortega. After listening to her mixes online I decided to reach out to her. We had very fruitful discussions about music. What impressed me most was her knowledge, reverence for true dance music, and it’s history.
I finally asked her if she would like to share a few of her productions to possibly release. A few days later I received two works I believed were excellent which lead to The Blue Club EP. I’m not one to get behind someone’s music because I think it may be popular. I have always been one to support music and artists I believe in because of the passion it exhibits. Sol is one of those artists for me.
Her composure and humility is what has drawn me to work with her, but also become friends. It’s very rare to meet someone this day and age that can speak of Basic Channel, Underground Resistance, the history of techno, and where it is going forward. With that being said, I would advise when you do stop for a second as this is a rare a dying breed anymore.
The Blue Club EP by summers end came to fruition with two beautiful tracks from Ortega and two solid remixes by Defend:r aka Ricardo Miranda. Ortega’s two offerings The Blue Club and The Underground Establishment deliver something reminiscent of a time gone by. Her use of moody chords, crisp hi-hats, and rolling bass lines looks forward all while paying respect to dance music’s golden age. Miranda a musical genius in his own right, takes both tracks and totally flips them. Adding a bit of Jack to both as only someone from Chicago could. His two presentations truly are peak time beaters.
Ricardo has encouraged me to start a label based on the concept of my event Rhythm Nation since it’s inception. Working with him has truly been a humbling experience. I have always known to have integrity in this game. However, he has reinforced the fact that you only need music you believe in, not ten thousand dollars, and a savvy PR agent to make your mark on an industry filled with people looking for the next big thing.
I started my event and label Rhythm Nation San Diego to promote up and coming artists that were off the radar of most people. It has always been my belief that the underground is about being your own individual. As much of a challenge it may be it is our responsibility to curate unfamiliar events and music. Supporting artists who’s music is uncompromising has been my vision from the beginning. So I am very proud to present to Sol Ortega’s debut The Blue Club EP.
The Blue Club is available for digital download on Bandcamp and vinyl preorder at Groove Distribution.
