Words by Sarah Favouritizm
Photos by Katja Rupp
Upon arriving at the magnificent Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, it was quite clear we were in for a treat!
As we followed the distant rumble of beats into to the depths of the historically steeped bike passage, it’s magnificent arches glowed with lush blue and purple hues…Maceo Plex and the Audio Obscura crew had chosen the perfect setting for their magical event!
There on the stage in full flow and bouncing away in front of a very cool and adoring crowd was Mr Plex himself..
Everyone was engaged to the beat and it was time to get down! No frills, fancy lasers or CO2 effects needed here…just the simplicity of Maceo’s uniquely infectious grooves, as he weaved a tapestry of profound, melancholic Techno and uplifting House, where emotional melodies beautifully circled around harder industrial grit and beyond.
There were plenty of surprises thrown in too, including a rendition of the 1980’s hit ‘Crockett’s Theme’ (Miami Vice) from Jan Hammer – for us old school espadrille crew, ancient enough to remember it, what a joy!
Maceo also revealed some gems from his forthcoming album ‘Journey To Solar’ dropping next month – a prequel to his new album ‘Solar’ which is due for release next year on Ellum. Highlight tracks included, ‘The Replicant’, steeped in Analogue’s bubble bath with echoes of yesteryear’s “Depeche” and ‘Love On Time’, where MP gives a cheeky nod to our good friends The KLF, sending the crowd to boiling point with it’s raw energy!
A seamless performance of impeccable music in a stunning venue – just perfection. Mr Plex, thank you!
Journey To Solar preview…
https://soundcloud.com/ellum/sets/maceo-plex-journey-to-solar