Vlad Arapasu Bucharest Best renowned for his former guise, as one-half of the unostentatious duo ‘Dubsons,’ and co-founder of vinyl only outlet 'Algorhythmic,' Vlad Arapasu skews to the more percussive side of the Romanian spectrum. Incorporating hints of jazz, most likely emanating from his early influences from the likes of Wes Montgomery and Alice Coltrane, Vlad's symbiotic approach to his music has seen his latest compositions acquired by fellow countryman Priku, for his acclaimed 'Atipic' imprint, and more recently on East End Dubs eponymous label 'Eastenderz'. But whilst his solo production project may still be relatively embryonic, Vlad is no newcomer on the DJ circuit. Boasting a 14-year tenure which began with s a salient residency at XS club in Iasi, Vlad has cut-his-teeth alongside some of Romania's most illustrious turntable purveyors, including Rhadoo, Raresh, Barac, Cezar and Dubtil, to name but a few. Fast-forward to today and Vlad’s discerned sound has been disseminated across 3 new continents. Inaugural tours to South America and Australia in 2019, included standout shows at D-Edge in Sao Paulo, S.A.S.H in Sydney and Breakfast Club in Melbourne, whilst pre-lockdown 2020 also brought his African debut, in Casablanca. Touring aside, it’s his endeavours in the studio last year which deserve most plaudits. The launch of his vinyl imprint Kontent, has curated an outlet through which to channel his satiable aptitude for both self-exploration in the space between visceral percussive flow and spellbinding texture, and the procurement of new music from the artists who inspire him most. With a growing reputation as an impeccable sequencer and a discerning ear for exemplary cuts, it is unsurprising that Vlad is slowly asserting himself at the forefront of Romania’s next-wave. bookings: Luke Farrugia // luke@gorillatraits.com
