Explain Barrio Latino. How does it relate to the rest of the Buddha-Bar ethos?
Barrio Latino has a strong resemblance to Buddha Bar, and has operated for many years for an exclusive clientele. Raymond Visan, the creator of the Buddha Bar and Bushido concepts created Barrio Latino as a little corner of Havana in Paris. The spectacular hacienda extends over 4 levels and is linked by an imposing staircase, which is something that can also be found in Buddha Bars and Bushido. Barrio Latino is grooved by lounge music, but latino style. The beats increase as the crowd grows and the time passes.
Latin-inspired music has been slow to catch on in the Gulf. How does a night at a Barrio Latino differ from any other club night?
It’s true that Latin music is a recent phenomenon in the Gulf, and I feel like one of the pioneers of it. Barrio serves both food as well as drinks, we are not simply a night club. People eat and then as the beats increase they stay to enjoy the music and the party.
Will people have to be salsa trained to dance on May 7?
My music is not Latin in a large sense. It is a fusion of rhythms between Latino, House/Electro, and some more acoustic sounds like Reggaeton and Salsa Merengue. You do not need to be a truly trained Latino dancer to enjoy the music, as the true feelings comes from the deep inside of every person.
Many people say music is ingrained in the Latin soul. Is your music style nature or nurture? Who have been your biggest influences?
It is true that people of the south have music deep inside, and it is a real passion for them. For me, music is a way of life, and so is dance. My influences tend to be music made for dancing. You can find a selection of these on the Barrio Latino 10th Anniversary album, which will be launched on May 7.
Where is the most exciting Latin music being created in the world at the moment?
I have just come back from a trip to Havana, and I was really impressed with the music scene there. Angola is present in the scene with its new style of rhythm, and don’t for get Spain and France in terms of more Electro Latin House. Otherwise, the main platform for Latin music remains Miami.
You were born in South America but live in Paris. Where has you music been best received?
In Europe definitely, as the public is much more opened minded. When I go to Latin America, I play more Latin House & Club.
Have you ever played in the Gulf before? What reaction do you expect?
I have played in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Beirut and Amman and it has always been a great crowd, a little shy though. I definitely look forward to playing in Bahrain and Bushido, to initiate this style of music in such a beautiful venue. I believe the team of Bushido, with DJ Dara Singh, is putting a lot of effort into this event, and I will do my best to create the best night that Bahrain has seen for a long time.
