(This article’s English version was produced with AI-assisted translation)
Chaos In The CBD is the moniker of brothers Ben and Luis Helliker-Hales, two globetrotters who, since the early 2010s, have been spreading vinyl and racking up DJ sets in every corner of the planet. Their approach is crystal clear: to blend the sensuality of deep house with the richness of organic sound. Uninterested in the ’90s legacy built on samplers and synthesis processes, the two New Zealanders favor a radiant nu-jazz imagery ("Ōtaki"), shaped by light percussion and airy brass ("Love Language"), and sculpted by those who have made the balance between introspection and euphoria their guiding principle. Their fascination with sounds that don’t solely originate from drum machines and digital modules is evident: a search for human warmth that they’ve pursued from the beginning, but which only now finds fulfillment in a full-length album. In fifteen years of activity, they had favored the more flexible 12” format, alongside a multitude of mixes for the most acclaimed platforms—from Resident Advisor to XLR8R, all the way to Boiler Room and beyond.
The fourteen tracks of "A Deeper Life" trace a path that slowly builds in tempo, but more importantly dances between downtempo languor and Balearic breezes: intimacy, yes, but while sipping a chilled drink under turquoise skies. To be clear: the core remains rhythmic and deeply house, but shaped around a summery, tropical sound design. The full-length moves through echoes of synth-funk, r&b vocals ("Tears", among many collaborations), and a constant tension toward a passionate and contemplative mood – more loft-at-sunset than rave. The two brothers tell their story through their influences: from soul to jazz, from bossa nova ("I Wanna Somebody") to '80s lounge vibes ("Brain Gymnasium"), without forgetting the club culture that cemented their reputation. Just listen to "Barefoot On The Tarmac", a perfect fusion of ‘90s ambient-house asceticism and the breakbeat of "Hydrate", an EP released in 2019.
Synthetic experiments are not left out either. But if it feels like you're listening to a full live band, it's because they truly pull it off. The album flows effortlessly, following a light and enveloping rhythmic curve. Perhaps, if we're being picky, a few cuts might have helped: fourteen tracks is a lot, and even though there are no real low points, a slight trimming could have improved the overall balance. But let’s not split hairs: summer is just around the corner, and few soundtracks seem more fitting to draw open its curtain.
12/06/2025