Returning to the Decks: A Serendipitous Comeback to DJing
I never thought I’d return to the decks after 2017. Playing music for a crowd again seemed like a distant memory—until life, as always, surprised me with the unexpected.
It all started when a friend invited me to an art exhibition in Almuñécar, featuring the works of Javier Domenech. His collection was a stunning mix of portraiture, continuous-line drawings, and a deep influence from 1940s American cinema. I was instantly captivated. Inspired, I commissioned a series of drawings for my dear friend Edoardo, a true film enthusiast.
While talking to Javier, I learned about another upcoming exhibition at Pura Vida, a beachfront restaurant in La Herradura. He casually mentioned that they also played music there. A mutual friend, aware of my past as a DJ, chimed in and told Javier about my history behind the decks. Without hesitation, Javier invited me to play, and without a second thought, I accepted.
A Vinyl Bag, A Twist of Fate
It almost felt like destiny—I had recently brought a bag of vinyl records from Italy, just to listen to at home. And now, those same records were about to be my soundtrack for a comeback.
As I arrived at Pura Vida, I was stunned. This wasn’t just any beach restaurant—it was a hidden gem. A cozy, intimate spot with a unique Pioneer 250 MK1 customized rotary mixer, two Technics 1200 turntables, and a pair of CDJ-2000s. A true DJ’s paradise, right at my doorstep. Ignacio, the man behind this place, clearly had a bright vision for this place.
I stepped up to the booth, heart pounding, and let the music take over. Jazz, funk, R&B, hip-hop, house—I moved seamlessly between the genres that have shaped my sound over the years. The vibe was effortless, the connection with the crowd immediate.
Music, Community, and a New Routine
From that day on, playing records became more than just a nostalgic indulgence—it became an addiction, just like it had always been. I started listening to music with fresh ears, curating new playlists, and experimenting with mixes at home.
Saturday afternoons at Pura Vida became a ritual. Families, young groups, and older music lovers all gathered, creating an atmosphere that felt both laid-back and electric. And the best part? Dogs were welcome, adding to the warm and inclusive spirit of the place.
People kept telling me that Pura Vida reminded them of Tarifa—a legendary Spanish coastal town known for its free-spirited vibe. I’ve never been to Tarifa, but if it’s anything like this small paradise, then I can’t wait to see it for myself.
For now, I’m exactly where I need to be—back behind the decks, sharing music, and embracing the unexpected turns of life.