Amparo

Reinforcing the global nature of the hip hop community, Cold Busted fam The Deli, Es-K, and Jansport J met in Madrid, Spain, to record an ambitious new project. Convening for the occasion of a Spanish release party for the Es-K album ReCollection, a studio and temporary home was constructed, the ‘Beat Embassy’ brand was formed, and the work began. Inspiration was rampant — collaborations with local MCs and curious visitors added weight to the project as creatives from around the world unified to create shared art. The result is the album Amparo.

The crew spent their days exploring Madrid, making new friends, setting up shows and appearances, and recording the sounds of the city. At night, work commenced in the makeshift studio as Amparo came together. Guests were invited to visit and join in the process, and they came from all over the world. Appearing on the album are Ødyssee (France), Maple Syrup (Russia), Gadget (UK), saib. (Morocco / Germany), Slim Jeff (USA), Wezt MAAD (Spain), and Jay BNDCKS (USA). And the city of Madrid is a featured guest, as well. Every song contains sounds and energy from Spain.

The combination of the creative environment and all this talent yielded a fascinating and immersive album. The spirit of experimentation is palpable, found on tracks like the cosmic jazz workout “Inner Space Travel,” the expressive sample-constructions of “Caña,” and the wistful sonic time travel of “Madrid3am.” Amparo is chock-full of vibes, and the collective journey of The Deli, Es-K, and Jansport J rings true. And it sets the table for future international excursions — the Beat Embassy plans to assemble for another recording session in parts unknown.

released August 28, 2020

Recorded in Madrid, Spain
All tracks produced by The Deli, Es-K, and Jansport J
All tracks written by D. Pryor, R. Ronci, J. Williams

Track 5 co-produced by Maple Syrup
Track 7 co-produced by Gadget
Track 11 co-produced by Slim Jeff & Wezt MAAD
Track 17 co-produced by Ødyssee
Track 18 co-produced by Jay BNDCKS

Mastered & Lacquers Cut by Misjah@24Mastering
Manufactured by Packaged Sounds
Design by Sebastian Fraye | sebastianfraye.com
Cover Photo by Daniela Loja
Executive Producer, Robert Ronci & Derrick Daisey
All Works Registered with Some Cutz Up (ASCAP)

Special thank you to Derrick Daisey, Slim Jeff, Wezt MAAD, Funk Jerry, Vanessa C, BeatzDogz, Dana C, Michelle G, Gadget, Maple Syrup, Saib., Ødyssee, Jay BNDCKS, Damien, Giaansta, Faraday Madrid (Rudi & Michelle B), Carhartt Spain, Jojo, Peace, Elena, Urban Jungle Madrid, Liquidator Music, Toni, Daniela Loja, Frank T, Siroco, and El 32.