A series where music lovers share some of their hidden gems.
Number 77 is by Kensa (Outransa), a Italian selector based in London.
Tell me about your musical roots
They're deeply immersed in both American and Italian rap, as well as New Wave. My love for rap was a personal journey that began early. Growing up in the era of 12-inch vinyl, iconic radio stations, CDs, and MTV, discovering the trailblazers of rap wasn’t a challenge. The raw, gritty beats of '90s rap were a constant soundtrack to my childhood, and I couldn’t help but be drawn in. Later on, thanks to the radio and my dad's CD collection, I stumbled upon the best of New Wave bands like Depeche Mode and Talking Heads became just as influential.
What is your favourite place to dig and why?
I love getting lost in the vast world of Discogs and other online music databases the web has to offer. The “treasure hunt” feeling keeps me in the loop, where I can filter my searches based on personal criteria, yet still stumble upon hidden gems in the process. The best part is venturing down rabbit holes, exploring countless labels and artists, each leading to new discoveries.
What do you listen to when you want to chill?
My music preferences tend to shift with my mood. When it comes to electronic music, I usually lean towards Ambient or Experimental stuff, especially those with a slower BPM. But honestly, my choices can vary widely depending on where my mind is at that precise moment. Sometimes I gravitate toward something entirely different. For example, the sound of a piano always gives me a sense of calm, so an artist like Ludovico Einaudi is often my go-to for those peaceful, reflective evenings.
Can you share with me your favourite podcast at the moment?
