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Biography

Against All Logic emerged from the shadows of electronic music's underground scene as one of its most enigmatic and compelling forces, with their masterpiece "2012-2017" standing as a testament to the transformative power of sample-based composition. This debut album, released in 2018, represents not just a collection of tracks but a sonic archaeology project that excavates forgotten gems from Latin music's rich history and rebuilds them into something entirely new. The album's hypnotic blend of house, techno, and Latin rhythms created an instant classic that would define a new approach to dance music production, proving that innovation often comes from looking backward to move forward.

The project is the brainchild of Nicolas Jaar, the Chilean-American producer already renowned for his work as a solo artist and as half of the experimental duo Darkside. However, Against All Logic represents a departure from Jaar's typically cerebral and atmospheric approach, instead embracing a more visceral and dance-floor-oriented aesthetic. Working primarily with samples from Latin American records spanning several decades, Jaar crafts intricate collages that honor their source material while creating something unmistakably contemporary.

The musical style of Against All Logic defies easy categorization, existing in the liminal space between house, techno, ambient, and Latin music. The project's approach is both reverent and revolutionary, taking snippets of salsa, cumbia, and other Latin genres and weaving them into pulsating electronic frameworks. The result is music that feels simultaneously nostalgic and futuristic, familiar yet alien. Tracks like "I Never Dream" and "Such a Bad Way" showcase this approach perfectly, with their infectious grooves built around carefully manipulated vocal samples that seem to float in and out of consciousness.

Following the critical acclaim of "2012-2017," Against All Logic continued to evolve with subsequent releases that expanded the project's sonic palette. The 2020 album "2017-2019" demonstrated growth and experimentation, incorporating more diverse samples and pushing the boundaries of the established formula. This sophomore effort proved that the debut wasn't a fluke, cementing Against All Logic's reputation as a vital force in contemporary electronic music.

The project's approach to sampling represents a masterclass in the art form, with Jaar demonstrating an almost supernatural ability to find the perfect moments within existing recordings and transform them into something new. Rather than simply looping sections, Against All Logic treatments involve careful manipulation, pitch-shifting, and rhythmic reconstruction that creates entirely new emotional contexts for familiar sounds. This technique has influenced a new generation of producers who have adopted similar approaches to sample-based composition.

Critically, Against All Logic has been praised for bridging cultural and generational gaps, introducing younger audiences to Latin music traditions while providing older listeners with fresh perspectives on familiar sounds. The project has been featured in numerous year-end lists and has garnered acclaim from publications ranging from Pitchfork to The Guardian, with many critics noting the sophisticated production techniques and emotional depth of the compositions.

The live performances of Against All Logic material have become legendary affairs, with Jaar transforming DJ sets into immersive experiences that blur the lines between dance music and sound art. These performances often feature extended versions and live remixes of existing tracks, creating unique experiences that can never be fully replicated.

Beyond commercial success, Against All Logic has contributed to important conversations about cultural appropriation versus appreciation in electronic music. Jaar's respectful approach to sampling, combined with his own Latin American heritage, has provided a model for how producers can engage with cultural source material in meaningful and respectful ways.

Currently, Against All Logic continues to be an active project, with Jaar regularly releasing new material and performing at festivals and clubs worldwide. The project has become an essential part of Jaar's artistic identity, complementing his other work while maintaining its own distinct character. Recent releases have shown continued evolution, with explorations into different regional music styles and more complex production techniques.

The legacy of Against All Logic lies not just in the quality of its output but in its demonstration that electronic music can serve as a bridge between cultures and eras. By treating samples as sacred texts worthy of careful study and respectful reinterpretation, the project has elevated the art of sampling while creating dancefloor experiences that are both intellectually stimulating and physically compelling. In an era of increasing musical fragmentation, Against All Logic proves that the most powerful music often comes from unexpected combinations.