THE “capital” of the Alpujarra, Órgiva, is a renowned cultural melting pot. The market town attracts its fair share of artists, musicians, and creatives. This is shown by its colourful music scene, which has a whole community attached to it.
Of the prominent genres in the area, two that have strong support – with members of one family involved in many events – are Dub Valle Hi-Fi (dub/reggae) and Hobbit Sounds (predominantly drum and bass). Providing a popular alternative to “traditional village fiesta music”, these parties are run using custom-built sound systems (rigs) with deep bass sounds. They both have loyal followings, with the dub events, in paticular, attracting people from other regions and provinces.
An impressive day of music
Saturday 14 September saw a daytime Dub Valle festival of dub/reggae at the ‘Restaurant Parilla el Jardin’, followed by another party at a private venue in the nearby riverbed playing drum and bass. The ethos of the events is peace and harmony – and happy, smiling faces that can remind older revellers of the UK scene, “back in the day”.
Ending the season at El Jardin, the Dub Valle event was one of the busiest sessions. at this venue, which presented a different music style every weekend during summer. Locals mingled with people from other areas.
Drum and bass in southern Spain
Although drum and bass has its roots in jungle, which evolved as part of the early 90s UK rave scene, the music has existed in the south of Spain since the mid-90s – the era of the famous Dragon festival, which later moved away from La Alpujarra.
The local drum and bass scene has a following aged roughly 18 to 60. Everybody is welcome at the events, so long as they bring a good attitude and, ideally, a few cold beers. Guest DJs frequently appear from the Málaga region to spin their tunes, and some DJs still play vinyl. Guests included the One Love soundsytem DJs from Comares.
Getting dubby
The local dub scene has been going strong for over two decades and appeals to people of all ages and walks of life. It is a calm scene, with values of peace and respect.
Created by Phil Vega and Daniel Dobson, hailing from Órgiva, Dub Valle Hi-Fi started in 2003. It is part of the Granada Dub Family collective that promotes local sound systems and events.
At these sessions, you’ll hear everything from DJs (selectahs) to flautists, percussionists, vocalists, and more. Guests have been known to come from Bilbao, and one loyal supporter walked two hours through gale force winds and rain to attend a previous event! The dedication of followers shows how important musical union and collaboration is considered in southern Spain.
Join the Dub Valle Facebook page for event updates.
Dub Valle Hi-Fi
Hobbit Sounds
