Opening a label’s first chapter is no light task, but Andy Somoza & Aka Juanjo step up with a statement cut: “Concentration”, the A1 on Circa91’s vinyl-only debut, sets the tone with confident restraint and a sonic identity rooted in the early ’90s without falling into pastiche. It’s a track that understands heritage, but moves forward with purpose.
Built around sturdy drum programming and a thick, sun-warmed bassline, “Concentration” immediately taps into the feel-good pulse of classic House – head-nod friendly, groove-driven, and shaped for rooms where bodies respond instinctively. The central synth line, unmistakably reminiscent of that era’s hypnotic leads, works like a hook and a memory trigger at once: familiar enough to comfort, but sharpened with contemporary clarity. Used with restraint, the vocal interjections of “concentration” accent the rhythm like flashes of light – memorable, functional, never intrusive.
What’s striking is the track’s discipline. Rather than chasing an explosive breakdown or overbuilding into drama, it lets the flow breathe: breaks arrive with intention, injecting movement and anticipation, but the energy always lands back into the pocket. The result is a slow-burner that locks dancers in, a groove that spreads rather than detonates – a proper first spark for what promises to be a promising series.
As the debut opener for Circa91 – a transatlantic collaboration between Toscal Records (Santa Cruz de Tenerife) and People Unpleaser (Santa Cruz de la Sierra) – “Concentration” acts as a handshake between scenes, aesthetics, and intentions. It’s also a fitting introduction from co-founder Andy Somoza, showcasing the ethos behind the new imprint: community-rooted, dancefloor-functional, and proudly vinyl-focused.
Words by Holger Breuer
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