A fresh party concept, with enough edge and excitement behind it to cut through the din is forever in demand throughout the underground house and techno scene. Buntu launched on Friday at L!fe bar, Brick Lane, with an ethos to provide something different and special to give your musical experience depth. Samantha Blackburn, South African DJ and London based producer, is the founder and innovator behind the promotion. Samantha has made her mark on the London clubbing network as one of the best female talents to emerge on the scene, holding residencies at Get Diverted and Byrds, of which she is also a co-founder, while making appearances at many of London’s coolest and hot underground parties. Samantha made her London debut in 2009 and has since been hot on the lips of many industry regulars. We are now keen to see what Samantha’s new project Buntu brings to the table.
Newly refurbished L!fe Bar on Brick Lane has a loft-like feel with low ceilings, a Funktion 1 sound system and a cool vibe. The sound projection is perfect for the deep, rolling tribal house expected at Buntu. Launching the new night to an eager Friday night crowd were residents Shane B alongside Wallace WD, with their deep, flowing techy beats, which warmed the early birds up nicely. Special guests Ray Stanley and Kid K were next to the decks playing a pure vinyl set, displaying their natural synergy and passion to an intrigued and attentive crowd. Exploring their house and techno routes, Ray and Kid K filled the dance floor with big, bass driven, jackin' house, launching a buzz between familiar faces and friends that created a warm and genuine party vibe.
Samantha Blackburn held the headline set, taking her signature jacking tribal house to a hot and sweaty dance floor. Accompanying Samantha was percussionist Jayondrums, who immediately created a dynamic presence with his high paced, excited performance. Renowned for his talent to compliment music across the genres, Jayon lifted tempo with his high-powered bongo playing, matching Samantha’s rolling baselines perfectly. They created a noticeable engagement with the crowd and between each other, spreading their energy and personality throughout the room. As the crowd responded with their hands in the air teamed with huge smiles, Samantha left Buntu steaming. With a strong community vibe filled with knowledgeable old school faces and new followers, the night seemed a resounding success to all. Another engaging feature for milling guests was the Live Artist concept, to be featured weekly. Friday's special guest was Prism Dynamic, with progressive and beautiful designs, complimenting the urban theme and music policy. This direction brought another interesting angle and compliment to the musical experience at Buntu.
A refreshing, interesting and passionate approach to tribal tech house. Friday night had personality which certainly enticed us for the next Buntu at L!FE.