TuneLab
ANDREA OLIVA in The Lab LDN
Andrea Oliva in The Lab LDN is a welcome reminder that true groove often resides in the subtlest of spaces, in the squelch of a 303 and the swing of a well-programmed hat. This is a set for the connoisseurs, the ones who find ecstasy in a perfectly looped bassline rather than a predictable drop. The room feels intimate, a dedicated circle riding the deep, warm frequencies emanating from the speakers. With a deceptive average BPM of 126.6 that belies a wide dynamic range, Oliva operates largely in the 12A domain, crafting a journey of impeccable deep and tech house.
The energy is overwhelmingly low-end focused, creating a hypnotic, physical pull that's both cerebral and utterly danceable. His mixing is smooth and considered, using long, dubby blends and acid line layering to build tension. The harmonic journey through keys like 5A and 7A adds color without ever breaking the spell, maintaining a persistent, groovy headspace. The tracklist is a treasure trove.
Jimpster's 'Silent Stars' is a masterful, understated opener, all shimmering atmospherics. Luch's 'Shepard's Tone' is a minimalist loop that works its way into your subconscious, while Andy Compton's 'That Acid Track' is exactly what it says on the tin—a raw, relentless lesson in bassline pressure. The cheeky inclusion of Mousse T.'s 'Horny '98' is a funky, filtered surprise, and Juan Pablo Moran's 'Life On White' remix provides a lush, melodic closing chapter. He starts with the deep space of 'Silent Stars,' lets the acid boil over with Compton's track, and gently ushers us out with the warm, melodic embrace of the Alejo Vasconez remix.