Colombia’s best kept secret, Sons of Hidden, debut their second release for their fresh imprint, Mammboh Rhythms Records. Combining the South American ethic of groove with contemporary flavors of Techno, the “Andean Tales” EP puts Sons of Hidden on the map for artists to watch in 2024.
Hailing from Medellín, Colombia, the mysterious duo known as Sons of Hidden (Juan Fernando Ocampo Betancur and Sergio Andrés Ospina López) is a live music project that is vested in being more than just face-value music. Making their first appearances on the scene as early as 2017, their star is steadily rising. The past couple of years have shown huge successes for the duo, making contributions to powerhouse labels like Illegal Alien, Matasism, and Unrilis, and closing out 2023 playing live shows all over Europe, including the notorious Amsterdam Dance Event.
At first glance, their branding alone is enough to conjure mystery and excitement, and their well-crafted, action-packed, hypnotic tunes drive this notion through even further. Sons of Hidden (SOH) has curated an atmosphere that is understandably dark yet paired with elements of nature and cultural richness that add a lively but ethereal feeling.
One of the most interesting ethos found in recent times, SOH claim that they find “Faith in technology as a source of pleasure”, and they are certainly providing immense pleasure for all our ears. Wizards of mood and masters of quality, SOH are able to blend unexpected elements of a sonic landscape to create a fully rounded listening experience that is unpredictable and feels like it is powered from pure life force energy.
Conceived on an adventure through the Andean mountains, the “Andean Tales” EP is a sonic representation of the captivating moments they experienced. With special collaborations with Portugal’s VIL (Nuno Costa) and Cravo (Pedro Cravo), the album sets souls on fire with an undeniable frisson of playfulness and provocation.
The upbeat EP jumps right into the deep end with a full spectrum of intoxicating bass, percussion, and rhythm in ‘Templo del Sol.” The track feels like all the spirits of the jungle have come out to play; the kind of track that truly makes you feel like you are alive. The supreme layering of atmospheric elements invites you in and the enchantment keeps your attention. “Flower of Rain” keeps the pace and delivers an equally irresistible groove with a steady kick and pulse. The harmony and rhythm are fast-paced but not chaotic. Brass elements help to push the suspense and give the track a sense of progression.
Dark bass and organ melodies await you on “Manglar”. Featuring VIL, the tune highlights polyphonic textures that includes drumming and distorted, drawn-out vocals dealt to you in a hypnotic swirl that will undoubtedly take you into a trance. Closing out, the title track of the EP is the most devious sounding of the bunch. Distorted vocals and bird calls tunneling through with twinkles and glimmering meet you halfway to give a feeling of absolute transcendence.
Unlocking a new gateway for the future of Techno, their intricate combination of elements warms the soul while simultaneously giving your feet a damn good reason to move. Far from formulaic and right off the deep end, do yourself a favor and keep Sons of Hidden on your radar for 2024.
-Jen Warra
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