Bestiblog Mix by Archerio

OK it's not quite yet Summer, but we've definitely started thinking about this year's festivals. To put you in the mood for the parties to come, Archerio has put together a fine selection of party bangers from funk, disco to classic hip hop that will get any dance floor going.

Check it out!!!

Nasimi Beach, Dubai

Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar! You know when you hear the call to prayer, you've come to a Muslim state and it's different rules over here. Although hailing as one of the "decadent" party spots of the middle east where the rich and famous come to play, it's still a Muslim state with some very conservative laws! So we were warned that there was to be absolutely no skin showing and no costumes that would reveal the contours of the body.....

Nasimi beach is the beach bar of the Atlantis resort complex - so big it has an aquarium and a water park as part of the hotel! The gig itself was a fun one joined by some familiar faces we recognised from previous gigs in Dubai. Shout outs to Charl, Smoking Groove and David Craig (Craaaaig David!!!) for the support!

Sheesha-ing away with resident Charl Chaka at Nasimi!

Monday, 21 February 2011 04:35

The Aotearoa experience

After holidaying in Bali for a couple of weeks we come to the land of the Long White Cloud, Aotearoa or New Zealand. New Zealand is our second home in a way. Miguel spent some of his youth here and since the first time I came here, I've loved the vibe of the place and the feeling I get - it feels like home away from home.
New Zealand has a very serious music scene. Julien Dyne, Isaac Aesili, Ladi6, Fat Freddy's Drop, Benny Tones, Electric Wire Hustle not to mention the list of up and coming producers and bands, there is a high quality of music here. As always we are joined for the Kiwi gigs by local celebrity and unofficial ambassador of Latin music and culture, Bobbito Brazuka, aka Robertinho Mukai. Working at Conch Records, an Auckland institution, a hub for musicians and first stop for any visiting DJs, he also holds down his residency at Ponsonby Social Club (my favourite Auckland bar) as well as playing in many more. Look out for his new project "Latin Aoteroa" with Bobbito on decks, Isaac Aesili on percussion and horns and MCed by the beautiful Jennifer Zea.

A fun crowd at the PSC with Bobbi Brazuka and Kengo san on the decks!

Although I ended up doing some side shows, the main Cuban gigs were at San Francisco Bath House in Wellington and Splore City in Auckland. Run by John Minty, the Splore Festival takes place every other year on a great little beach in a National Park. On the "off" years John has put on something a little smaller in the city and here is where we find ourselves!

Taking place in Auckland City Hall, the Friday night was headlined by Kelis. Saturday saw Mayer Hawthorne (great show!! The boy can sing!), Belleruche and us lot! Another great vibe and fun times. It's great to be back!

Kelis giving it on Friday with DJ NikkiBeats, followed by Shortee Blitz and J-Star too. UK represent!

Mayer Hawthorne and County covering Doobie Brothers' "What a Fool Believes". Girls are literally fainting!