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Wednesday, July 9, 2014

DeeJay EstraGaa [DDPR] - Atos Sentimentais ''B.G''

DDPR, in the interest of baseless speculation, are the initials of a clandestine European micro-state/principality. I am willing to extend the benefit of the doubt, however, and not levy this allegation. But any and all reality is difficult to discount. DDPR may merely be the diplomatic wing of a group looking establish said state. Its goal are as of yet unknown. If probability and likelihood are to have any say in the matter, though, this discussion will soon be swayed towards plausibility. Where seriousness is concerned, DDPR is shorthand for a Portuguese EDM crew. Deejays Di Puro Ritmo is most the probable, and correct, solution to said inquiry. Although the skeptical reader is sure to note: even this allegation has only recently been verified.

Composed of DeeJay EstraGaa, DeeJay VadoFox, DJ Dotorado, and Produtor Big Vado the DJs Di Puro Ritmo crew is spread evenly across the Western portion of the Iberian Peninsula. As is often the case in Portugal, all four member are of Lusophone descent. Where specificity is concern, most of DDPR resides in or around Lisbão. VadoFox and DJ Dotorado, residing south of the River Tejo in the Setúba district, qualify as the "around." As a group, however, the primary homogeneity is found musically. Geography plays a secondary role to this mix of kuduro and tarraxo specialists, as the occasional collaborations with Tia Maria Produções (TMP) - or specifically Dj Ly-Cox - goes to show. While all four members are active and prolific, this post in concerned with EstraGaa. Although his music posseses a surplus of rhythm, EstraGaa's strong point lies elsewhere. What sets this DJs creations apart is a willingness to venture into the realm of melody. Where others may experiment with extended synth phrases or adding a second instrument, EstraGaa is fearless in corralling building materials. The end result is not unlike DJ Manny and Teklife: a more gentle sound with greater cross over potential. This Michael Jackson remix is a notable example of this phenomenon; both the selection and the ambition in re-working a mid-tempo 1980s pop song is admirable.

The introduction of "Atos Sentamentais" formidably showcases of EstraGaa as well. In the first forty seconds of the song an ambient effect, two synthesizers, and a three-bar flute phrase provide the track's head. Comparisons to the Zelda theme seem inevitable even if it is just an electronic coincidence. This flute is prevalent in this DJs canon; on of the many novelties guests are welcome to enjoy. Nonetheless, the harmless vibes of nostalgia are a concern once other invitees occupy all the bean bag chairs in this dancefloor/playroom. With the beginning of the first section, the drums are introduced along side a second piece of percussion. The DPPR name does not disappoint. A short gasp - an easily unnoticed vocal sample - plays up the song's syncopation while the four part bassline ends it phrases with a dipthong, as it were. The 2/4 tarraxo beat is consistent throughout the four minute album track. Regardless, a potential nod to "western electro-" dance music varieties exists. As the second portion begins - following a short spoken were interlude - one of the synthesizers emotionally embellishes on the song's melody just before the flute joins and the full effect is achieved. A stop-time bridge highlighting the vocals and ambient synth effect round out first full loop of "Atos Sentamentais," allowing for the live-mixing DJ to transition towards the next number. This specific creation is both pleasant and enjoyable, so long as the producer does not become trapped by his own melodic creations the ceiling is likely to remain high.

- John Noggle


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