The music of Danny Ocean is the kind that connects, heals, makes you fall in love and is a pure reflection of his genuine, relaxed vibe. And his new album, Babylon Club, released on Thursday (July 31) under Atlantic Recording, is no exception.
“I think this album is like that, it’s about moments a lot, not so much about thinking,” the Venezuelan artist tells Billboard. “It was much more about the moment and the energy you brought to the studio or to compose.”
Babylon Club features 14 tracks and a narrative universe where freedom, desire, love and celebration occupy a central place, presenting a dynamic mix of sounds and collaborations that highlight Danny Ocean’s global vision. It includes exciting contributions from recognized artists such as Arcángel (“Arena”), Aitana (“Anoche”) and Louis BPM (“Sunshine), as well as previously released singles “Priti” featuring Sech, “AyMami” with Kenia Os and the No. 1 hit “Imagínate” featuring Kapo.
Listening to it is like trying musical flavors from the Caribbean. There is a merengue, “Pirata” with El Alfa; his first salsa, “Crayola”; and a merenguetón, “Margarita,” which also carries that Venezuelan sound. “It is not a genre that was born in Venezuela,” Danny explains. “But I think it is a genre that we adapted to ourselves, to our way. And yes, it tastes like a little rum.”
It also goes further in its sound exploration, reaching a refreshing flamenco in “Corazón.”
Danny is not one to keep trophies, plaques or other visible reminders of his success at home; instead, he keeps them in the homes of some of the people he loves. With one exception: After our interview, he received a certificate plaque for “Imagínate” with Kapo going 3x Platinum from his Warner Latina label; the track spent seven weeks at the top of the Billboard Latin Pop Airplay chart.
Anxious, excited and ready to share his new music, Danny Ocean spoke with Billboard a day before the release of his LP in the intense heat of summer in Miami Beach. Below, he breaks down five essential tracks from Babylon Club.
