Spain

Madrid

Merca Bae

 at the moment: the Spanish city is responsible for throwing some of the best parties in Europe while exporting some of the finest electronic talent around. This is down to the independent, informal nature of its electronic scene, built by independent collectives platforming the city's premiere DJs while curating the slickest line ups. 

Madrileño DJ Merca Bae rose up through the city's underground scene, crafting his urgent, immersive hybrid sounds in packed house parties and clandestine warehouse raves. "Like in most underground scenes, what defines Madrid’s the most is its DIY spirit," he tells Trippin. "It’s a small scene, but a very exciting one. If throwing parties here could actually make us some real money, Madrid would absolutely be a must-stop city for any underground DJ."

 2000-capacity Razzmatazz club, but is quick to give credit to the Madrid indy world that shaped his success:  "Let’s not forget that a big part of Madrid’s underground scene lives in house parties, afters, and places we probably shouldn’t name here."

First stop: my go-to barbershop in Lavapiés. A proper night out starts with looking your best. Tito and Mayo will have you fresh and ready.

Central Madrid has become quite hostile to locals (it feels more like a theme park nowadays). But this market still keeps the neighbourhood’s essence alive. A perfect spot for a few pre-party drinks.

One of my go-to restaurants when I’m organising parties. Amazing Chinese food, right in downtown, cheap and authentic. Don’t miss the eggplant with garlic sauce and meat, it’s impressive.

A classic cocktail bar in the heart of the city. I always go for an after-dinner drink. My favorites: the “Cielo Raso” and the “Bronx”.

One of Madrid’s most iconic clubs, which opened in 1989. Like most venues here, the independent promoters are the ones that keep it interesting. Some of the city’s most cutting-edge collectives like Post Club and BRRRRRAP have held events here, Fridays or Saturdays mainly. I co-organise the ‘MERCABR5AP’ party at Siroco with BRRRRRAP, a collective that’s been active for over 12 years. It’s a small venue (around 180-capacity), and could definitely invest in a better sound system and also improve conditions for promoters, but for me still feels like home.

Since the pandemic, most of the most exciting parties have moved out here. Solid clubs, serious respect for sound, and really interesting line-ups. No names mentioned, gotta keep the secret location vibe alive. 

Right now, I think this is the most exciting neighbourhood in Madrid — although gentrification is creeping in fast. It's packed with recording studios, art galleries, dance schools, and more… It still keeps that authentic neighbourhood feel.

Barrio de Carabanchel

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