For Latin American Superstar J. Balvin, the drummer is an essential part of the rhythm. As Balvin's FOH Engineer, Buitrago knows the drums should not disturb the sound spectrum that allows the public to immediately identify the song. In order to find the space for a kick, snare and toms, Buitrago relies on DPA Microphones' d:vote 4099D Instrument Microphones for Drums.
J. Balvin is the stage name of José Álvaro Osorio Balvín, from Medellín, Colombia. Balvin is a reggaeton singer, whose polished urban singles and best-selling albums have made him a top-tier Latin pop artist. Balvin's music is electronic, yet it is very rich in the low end where the beat is an essential and identifiable part of the rhythm. It's mixed with some sweet melodies and harmonic effects, intertwining a vocal presence within the musical structure.
The first time Buitrago heard a d:vote 4099 Instrument Microphone was on a violin when he mixed a symphony concert. "I was absolutely blown away," says Buitrago. "I was so happy to find a microphone true to the source that does not alter the natural sound of the instrument. I contacted the local distributor in Colombia, and then travelled to California for NAMM with the express goal of speaking directly with DPA Microphones to gather more technical information about its products."
(Jim Evans)
