Fred Again.. & Latin Mafia: 50-Hour Livestream Mixtape

Superstar DJ Fred again.. and Mexican alt-pop band Latin Mafia have released a new 14-track mixtape, titled '9 months & 50 hours'. This project highlights their shared interest in creating freeform music influenced by real-time experiences and finding creative catharsis. The mixtape's creation was a unique event, culminating in a 50-hour YouTube livestream where the final production took place, involving Fred's brother Benjy Gibson as well. The title itself reflects the total time dedicated to its completion.

The collaboration masterfully bridges the distinct sounds of Fred again.. and Latin Mafia. Tracks like "Te Estoy Correteando" merge galloping cumbia with gloomy synths, while "Quiereme" sees hyperpop and electro-house collide, featuring Spanglish lyrics about a complex relationship. "Alvafro" blends industrial grime with otherworldly R&B, transitioning into house overdrive.

Several previously released songs were enhanced for the mixtape. Fred again.. and Brian Eno's "Cmon" was transformed into an ode to yearning with Latin Mafia's input. Mabe Fratti contributed vocals to "Mabe." Additionally, Fred again.. pays tribute to Jon Hopkins with a reimagined version of "Open Eye Signal."

Despite the creative energy and the intense rollout, which included an arena-sized dance party, some tracks on '9 months & 50 hours' suggest a rushed production. Songs like "Piensas En Mi" and "Halo" could have benefited from more development, leaving the impression that the myth of the mixtape's creation might overshadow the final musical output.