Paraíso. The True Spirit of Ibiza. A Loving Tribute To Alfredo’s Balearic Legacy.
On Christmas Eve 2024, iconic Ibiza DJ Alfredo escaped his nursing home and, ignoring pain and frailty, made his way to nearby Jesus village for a drink. This was not his first escape from the facility, a place where sterile walls could not contain the restless spirit that had defined him since youth. Even as sickness tightened its grip, he yearned for freedom one last time. On his return, Alfredo slumped to the ground with his son Jamie at his side, the comfort of family in his final moments. The jailbird was now free as his soul soared like an aria into the sunlit sky, leaving his mortal coil behind.
Both the Cartaginians and the Romans were residents on the island before the ultimate hippy Jesus of Nazareth had walked the Earth. They believed that Ibiza was a sacred place, a gateway to the next life where the soul could pass easily. This may be why the sworn enemies were unusually buried together in the ancient necropolis that remains intact on the sunset-facing western slopes of Dalt Vila. It is regarded as one of the best-preserved Punic burial sites in the world.
Alfredo’s death, following Jose Padilla’s passing four years earlier, closed the Balearic Music genre’s five-decade run on the island. Only DJ Pippi remains: the Last Mohican of that golden age of musical freedom. A new album, which DJ Alfredo helped curate, celebrates that era. Paraíso. The True Spirit Of Ibiza features contributions from Paul Oakenfold, Nicky Holloway, Cirillo, Carlos Diaz, Cesar De Melero, Nelo, Joan Ribas, Paco Fernandez, Terry Farley and others.
The album includes all the Balearic classics: Joe Smooth’s Promised Land, 808 State’s Pacific State, The Sabres Of Paradise by Smokebelch, Voices Of Kawhan, and my personal favourite, Driving Away From Home by Its Immertial. Alfredo’s influence is clear in selections like the quirky Penguin Cafe Orchestra and other classical touches. There’s also an unreleased track by Alfredo, plus contributions from Jose Padilla and acclaimed Spanish guitarist Paco Fernandez.
Heartfelt Tribute
The thirty-three track album has been lovingly and passionately put together by Daniele ‘Shield’ Contrini, owner of the stylish and independent Rebirth Records Label. This label, boasting over one hundred releases, reflects its owners dedication and care. Every detail, from the intricate artwork to the limited edition double vinyl release, reveals the devotion poured into this project. It’s more than an album—it’s a heartfelt tribute for genre purists and a perfect gift for collectors.
The album launches in Ibiza this weekend, September 12, at El Silencio on the beach in Cala Moli from midday to midnight. Alfredo’s son Jamie will attend, lending authenticity to the project. Elkin from Elkin & Nelson will also perform Jibaro live.
Full track listings and details here
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