Since 2020, when they released their debut EP ‘Human Learning’ and a collaboration with Lane 8 called ‘Run’, the duo Kasablanca have made a name for themselves in the progressive techno scene internationally. With influences such as Rüfüs Du Sol, Eric Prydz and Tale of Us, alongside the stage presence of people like Justice and Kavinksy, Viktor and Micky have continued to release EPs such as ‘Immunity’ or ‘Am I Dreaming’, as well as single songs on the way to what has to be their first full-length album. Among their collaborations, one with Bob Moses.
For the moment, this Friday, July 19th, they are visiting Spain for the first time, specifically Razzmatazz 3 in Barcelona. At the beginning of this year, Micky announced on Instagram that he had to cancel a series of dates because he had been diagnosed with cancer in the middle of the tour and had to undergo chemotherapy sessions during the month of February. He promised new music as soon as he was well, as the doctors were optimistic about his recovery, and it seems that this has been the case.
The band has been active again, releasing a single in April and another in June (‘Terminal Feeling’), of which we selected the first one this year, ‘Remission’, as Song of the Day.
It’s hard to separate titles like “Terminal Feeling” and “Remission” from the disease. On Genius, Kasablanca fans have posted a screenshot of a message in which Micky says “I’m cancer free” and Viktor answers: “it’s time to make the album.” But ‘Remission’ is a recording open to interpretation through those lyrics that are repeated like a mantra “if you want me, come and get me, I’m ready.” It can be a defiant cry, or it can be whatever you want.
On the dark techno base, a healing melody emerges, enriched by a keyboard line that we could link to electronic pop greats such as Depeche Mode or more recently GusGus. On ‘Remission’, Kasablanca shine as masters controlling both the 4×4 and the most sensitive pop melody. You’ll like it if you like dancing until dawn, but also listening to Moderat in the quiet of your home.
