- After a solid opening at the beginning of July, Never Say Never, Sasha's new Ibiza venture, went one better last week, transposing the party from the courtyard of the Ushuaia Tower to its much-lauded rooftop, a full eight storeys up. So far, the space has been reserved for private functions and the VIP-ish afterhours of certain Ushuaia events, making Sunday one of the first opportunities for the general public to enjoy its breathtaking views. Despite some dress-code issues at the door, the place was comfortably busy, with a strong enough focus on the music to ensure the party wasn't overshadowed by the glitz of the venue.
On duty as a secret guest was Matthew Dear, who rolled out warm, groovy tech house to match the breezy surroundings. Playing with a big smile on his face, he managed to find the perfect balance between leisurely and upbeat, keeping the floor gently rocking to his summery output. As Sasha started amidst a small sea of cheers he noticeably changed tack, switching to something more emotive. As deft progressive touches danced atop sturdy kick and bass combos, it felt like we were seeing flickers of the Sasha of old. However, as he drew his set to a close with Paul Woolford's ubiquitous "Untitled," the seminal DJ showed he still keeps one foot very much in the now.
Just Be, formerly known as Bushwacka!, is another artist currently straddling the boundary between the past and present. He moved effortlessly between the two during his closing set, and kept to a continuously tough, throbbing pulse. As the keys of Lil' Louis & The World's "I Called U (The Conversation)" sounded across the rooftop, its infectious joviality brilliantly captured the atmosphere of the party. With plans to make the roof a more permanent home, Never Say Never could prove a popular fixture on the Sunday night scene this year, fusing top-quality house music with Ibiza's newest and most unique clubbing spot.