The "Tranquilo Quieto" live music series, originating in Puerto Rico in 2017, initially focused on live DJ hip-hop sets with guest artists. Following a hiatus post-2020, the project re-emerged with a new vision, incorporating director Edgar "Edgo" Cruz to produce visually rich video sessions across various Puerto Rican locales. This evolved format has garnered millions of views, featuring prominent local musicians. Now, after a two-year pause, the series proudly welcomes back the Puerto Rican alt-pop sensation Buscabulla, underscoring its commitment to showcasing the island's vibrant musical talent.

Buscabulla's recent performance on the revived "Tranquilo Quieto" series took place at the iconic El Hamburguer in Old San Juan, a venue steeped in local history and romantic lore. The band, consisting of Raquel Berríos and Luis Alfredo "Luifre" Del Valle, specifically chose this setting to align with the nostalgic theme of their latest EP, "Se Bailaba Así." The session featured three songs—"Miraverahí," "Tártaro" (including nods to "La Cura" and their Bad Bunny collaboration "Andrea"), and "De Lejito"—with their daughter Charly making a special appearance. This unique choice of location and the raw, informal style of the performance underscored the band's desire to connect with the authentic sounds and cultural heritage of Puerto Rico, transforming their electronic tracks into a more stripped-back, intimate experience.

The Evolution of "Tranquilo Quieto" Sessions

The "Tranquilo Quieto" live music series, initiated in Puerto Rico in 2017 by producer David B and musician Josué “Messy” Deprat, began with a simple yet engaging concept: live DJ hip-hop performances showcasing a rotation of guest artists. However, the project underwent a significant transformation after the 2020 pandemic, adapting to the changing landscape of music consumption. By integrating director and photographer Edgar “Edgo” Cruz into the team, the series pivoted towards creating high-quality digital content, producing videos in diverse and visually striking locations across Puerto Rico. This strategic shift allowed "Tranquilo Quieto" to reach a wider audience, featuring celebrated artists like Chuwi, PJ Sin Suela, RaiNao, and iLe, and collectively accumulating millions of views. The project's resilience and adaptability in reimagining its format to meet contemporary demands for digital engagement highlight its innovative spirit and dedication to promoting Puerto Rican talent.

This innovative approach sets "Tranquilo Quieto" apart from conventional live session programs by uniquely integrating the artists' performances with the rich cultural and natural landscapes of Puerto Rico. Each episode features a different location, meticulously chosen to resonate with the performing artist's music, thereby adding an extra layer of narrative and aesthetic depth. For instance, rapper Jazz Bandana's session at a Quebradillas skate park blended urban sport with ocean backdrops, while Latin Grammy-winner paopao's performance under the ruins of the Arecibo Observatory created a distinct post-apocalyptic vibe. The recent return of the series after a two-year hiatus, which founders describe as a period for scouting new talent and ideas, has revitalized its mission. The hiatus allowed the creative ecosystem to generate fresh talent and concepts, ensuring that the series continues to evolve and offer novel ways to experience music. The team is now exploring opportunities to expand internationally and even conceptualize a "Tranquilo Quieto Fest," signaling ambitious future plans.

Buscabulla's Return and Homage to Heritage

Buscabulla, the Puerto Rican alternative-pop duo comprised of Raquel Berríos and Luis Alfredo "Luifre" Del Valle, eagerly rejoined the "Tranquilo Quieto" series after a long anticipation, marking a significant moment for both the band and the show. Their chosen venue, El Hamburguer—an iconic burger establishment in Old San Juan with a 60-year history—was central to their performance's thematic resonance. The decision to film during a bustling lunch hour, with diners present, underscored their desire for a raw and informal atmosphere, a deliberate departure from polished studio recordings. This choice reflected Berríos's vision for an imperfect, ambient-sound recording that connected with the casual yet deeply rooted cultural fabric of Puerto Rico, aligning perfectly with their recent EP, "Se Bailaba Así," which draws inspiration from classic romantic music and historical Puerto Rican settings.

The band's performance at El Hamburguer was not merely about its vibrant ambiance; it also served as a profound tribute to Puerto Rico's musical heritage. Performing in front of a wall adorned with posters of past music legends like Marc Anthony and Eddie Palmieri, Buscabulla—particularly Berríos—acknowledged the significant influence of salsa on their work. This connection to the island's rich musical lineage was further highlighted by the inclusion of their daughter, Charly, in the performance of "De Lejito," adding a personal touch to their artistic expression. Del Valle noted the challenge of stripping down their electronically-driven tracks for a live, raw setting, likening it to shedding a "safety blanket." Yet, this vulnerability was embraced, culminating in a powerful and authentic session. The symbolic act of their own poster being added to El Hamburguer's wall, a playful "long con" as Del Valle joked, cemented their place within this lineage, celebrating their contribution to Puerto Rican music.