It’s a double-header release day for Michael Brun, the Haitian DJ/producer who’s been playing an active role in changing the perception of his home country and spreading the sound of its vibrant beauty. His latest tracks are “Jalouzi” and “Soweto.”
Brun tells Billboard that the new records are the “first in a series of releases highlighting the sounds and textures of different cities around the world.” He continues, “Both these songs came together so naturally and sonically felt like a representation of the cities they were based on.”
The producer comes kicking with “Jalouzi,” a party-starter that recently made its way into Diplo‘s Boiler Room set. “I’ve spent the past few years working with artists and Rara bands based in Jalouzi, and I wanted the song to capture the energy and vibrancy of the people,” Brun says.
The second song, “Soweto,” is a smooth, sultry record that salsas to a warm, round bassline and the vocals of up-and-comer Shirazee. “Working with Shirazee on Soweto was a doorway into the sounds of the city,” says Brun. “He was born in Benin but spent a lot of time in South Africa, and his memories of Soweto brought out the sounds and textures of this song. I hope people will be transported to these locales through the music.”
Fans can catch the rising talent on his BAYO tour which wraps up this weekend (June 22 and 23) in Montreal and Boston. Listen to “Soweto” and “Jalouzi” below: