Mitú at SO36 / Thursday, 28.3.2024

Mitú’s musical journey spans twelve years of continuous exploration, covering a broad spectrum created from analog synthesizers and rhythm machines designed for the dance floor. The live show draws a unique parallel in Latin American electronic music due to its strength and sonic rawness. After sold out concert venues in Colombia with their latest album, “Astra,” Mitú returns to the legendary SO36 after six years since their last performance in Berlin.

Mitú’s latest album, “Astra,” diverges from the bustling streets of Bogotá to the Caribbean coast. Julian Salazar, captivated by local sounds like afrokolumbianische Champeta and Haitian Kompa, moved to the vibrant port city of Santa Marta. Influenced by afrokolumbian rhythms from San Basilio de Palenque, the first free settlement of enslaved Africans in the Americas, the album features percussion traditions of Palenque, shaping a diverse soundscape with instruments like Tambor Alegre, Konga, and Tama.

At the core of “Astra” is Julian Salazar’s electric guitar, evoking surf music, Cumbia Psychedelica, and North Brazilian Carimbó. Reflecting his quest to reconnect with musical roots, it moves away from a pilot’s role, embracing the dynamic experience of playing an instrument.

Mitú’s musical tapestry features guest vocals from emerging Colombian singers. Loyal Lobos from Los Angeles contributes gentle Electro-Pop lines, Marsh Waris and Yiseth Pérez infuse afrokolumbianische timbres. Yiseth’s unique voice reminiscent of traditional music from San Basilio de Palenque adds a distinctive touch to “Astra.”

For Julian Salazar, the move to the Caribbean coast signifies a personal rebirth, reflected in “Astra.” Representing the reconstruction of life, chaos becomes a dynamic force birthing innovation. No longer resonating with urban techno clubs, “Astra” paints a picture of beach bars or a Santa Marta harbor sunset. Mitú reinvents themselves, adding new dimensions to Colombia’s sonic landscape.

Opening the night is Gugol Maps, a Berlin-based Colombian artist delving into electronic realms beyond the mainstream in Bogotá. Inspired by musical diversity in Berlin and her hometown, Gugol Maps embarks on a sonic journey unraveling the essence of Colombian identity. Witness her set ablaze, guiding the audience through uncharted territories of electronic bliss, setting the stage for an immersive night.