Lisbon’s Paraíso Records welcomes local legend Vil to its roster with “Above Below”.
Having started his career in electronic music as a Dubstep and Drum & Bass promoter back in 2008, Nuno Costa, now known as Vil, has come quite a long way since then. Now focusing mostly on producing and DJing House and Techno, as well as running his own label alongside Portuguese artists Temudo and Menosidois, known as Hayes Collective, Vil has created a name for himself as one of Portugal’s premiere acts. Similarly, the Portuguese radio show, club night, and label, Paraíso, has built its name in Lisbon and beyond as a newly emerging, grassroots staple for underground House and Techno. Vil’s latest EP for the label, titled “Above Below,” offers six high-octane cuts perfectly suited for the dance floor.
Starting off the EP is energetic cut “Rotari” where organic and mechanical sounds meet and mesh. Subtle instances of tribal drums enrich the groove, while a thick and tasty bass line steals the show. Picking up where “Rotari” left off, the second track, “Balanço,” further fleshes out this blend of loose and rigid sound design, creating a colorful, fun, and approachable Techno hit. However, the third track, “Ghet09”, is where the “Above and Below” EP reaches its peak. A bouncy foundation is suddenly shaken up with a medley of sporadic House stabs. Bright and peppy, the beat feels unrestrained in the best possible way yet balances its spritely energy with piercing dry hats and claps.
On the B-side, “Anjos, the New Birmingham” appears, giving Vil the chance to show off his rave roots and classic sensibility. A pounding kick and frantic hi-hat pick up the pace while lush chords ring out. Simple yet effective, this track is sure to satisfy. Next, the track “Sis” offers a more complex experimental take on Techno. Melodic loops morph in pitch and resonance, creating an exciting and unpredictable sonic journey. Last on the EP is fellow Portuguese producer EDND’s remix of the opening track. From the jump, EDND’s interpretation dips and swells with heavy filtration. A more aggressive drum pattern and bass line than the original emerges, sounding much more menacing than the beginning of the record. After a short breakdown, a twinkling lead surprises and echoes out. Stupefying and unnerving with her remix, EDND helps bring the record to an epic close.
Support the artists and label by purchasing a digital, or limited vinyl copy of the record, via the bandcamp page, linked above.
-Jeronimo Watson
Check out Dirty Epic music recommendations here.
Listen to our podcasts here.
Find out more about our events here.
