2012 saw bass music become a truly global phenomenon.
A number of dubstep pioneers began looking outward, with artists such as LV, 2562 and more finding inspiration far beyond Northern Europe. One half of Digital Mystikz, Mala was invited to travel out to Cuba by close friend Gilles Peterson and returned inspired by what he had witnessed.
Working with a number of Cuban musicians, the producer set about melding the island's culture to a British bass viewpoint. The resulting album – 'Mala In Cuba' – was one of last year's finest, effortlessly melding two quite distinct musical styles into one cohesive entity.
Mala took the collective to Brixton Electric as 2012 drew to a close, performing one fantastic concert. Bringing the album to life, live footage from the soundcheck has now emerged online.
Brownswood shot the clip, which features Mala working with Danay Suarez on a live rendition of 'Noche Sueños'. It lacks the intensity caused by audience interaction, but this is nonetheless a fascinating insight into the working methods behind the album and that sensational night in Brixton.
Watch it now.
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Mala In Cuba will visit London's KOKO on January 19th for Gilles Peterson's Worldwide Awards.
Photo Credit: Kaat Van Tiggel
