Over the past few years,Kaique Vieira,popularly recognized as DJ K,has been crafting a distinctive sound that is emerging from São paulo. Drawing influence from the vibrant street parties of local favelas, this 24-year-old producer integrates distorted basslines with afro-brazilian rhythms and vocal melodies typical of baile funk—a genre that originated in Brazil during the 1980s. He introduces a darker edge to his music through reverb-heavy vocal snippets,rave sirens,and buzzing synths,coining his unique style as bruxaria (witchcraft). His debut album released in 2023, titled Pânico no Submundo, comprises 15 tracks that encapsulate the essence of blown-out speaker cones. With his latest offering Radio Libertadora!, he boldly explores even more audacious and louder territories, further evolving his nascent genre into an exhilarating source of dancefloor frenzy.
The album commences with an excerpt from a radio speech by revolutionary carlos Marighella dating back to 1969 that called for resistance against Brazil’s military dictatorship—setting a provocative tone for an album that challenges the long-standing criminalization of baile funk street gatherings. Within Vieira’s bruxaria universe, beats are powerful; vocals are passionately delivered; bass is monumental—creating an overwhelming apocalyptic ambiance. The track Mega Suicidio Auditivo opens with siren-like wails accompanied by booming basslines within its first twenty seconds while Sua Filha Quer Os D layers rap verses over synth melodies interwoven with Islamic adhan calls to prayer. Techno de Favelado transitions seamlessly between harsh berlin techno influences to trance elements blended with baile funk rhythms featuring Meduza striving for prominence.
Vieira showcases exceptional skill in balancing his compositions so each element can shine without devolving into chaotic noise. While some listeners may perceive it as excessively loud at times, many find themselves captivated by Vieira’s relentless energy; there exists liberation within this sonic barrage—an invitation to dive headfirst into the auditory chaos.
New Releases This Month
The Australian ensemble hand to Earth presents their latest project Ŋurru Wäŋa (Room40). This collection features ambient electronics paired with deep bass drones supporting First Nations vocalist Daniel Wilfred’s emotive singing in Wáglilak language across six evocative tracks reflecting on themes of homecoming. Meanwhile,singer Ami Taf Ra‘s debut album the Prophet and the Madman (Brainfeeder) merges Arabic melodic lines with intricate jazz arrangements inspired by poet Kahlil Gibran’s works; Kamasi Washington contributes on How I Grew To Become A Madman—a soaring highlight showcasing virtuosity. Brazilian guitarist Atletas offers a tenderly intimate record titled Reflexão Meteórica (Municipal K7), where electronic percussion blends seamlessly with finger-picked guitar melodies creating wistful soundscapes filled with warmth.