Images by Nick Helderman //

José González takes to Berlin’s Michelberger for a special rendition of his forthcoming track ‘Valle Local’.

The best part about watching the Jim Beam Welcome Sessions over the past few weeks (other than pouring ourselves a healthy glass of that delicious nectar) has been the variety. First up we had indie-pop powerhouse Jack Garratt, then we were absolutely floored by Irish post-punks Fontaines D.C.’s rendition of ‘I Was Not Born’, and now we’re stoked to be sharing a goosebump-inducing version of ‘Valle Local’ by José González. The track is taken from his forthcoming first record in six years, Local Valley, making this re-imagining even more of a revelation.

The performance is shot fittingly at Michelberger, a venue in the East Berlin district of Michelberger, which has become a pit stop for some of the world’s most famous acts on their way to global stardom. Filmed throughout the venue, González sinks into its walls while also sonically transcending it, allowing the space to concurrently embody and uplift the performance.

“As a touring musician, the welcome you feel within a space is so important for so many reasons, both in shaping what you do on stage but also the moments in between,” González says. “From the moment you step through the doors of a venue like The Michelberger, the playful architecture and warm and inviting aesthetic immediately inspires and fuels the creative spirit, especially for musicians entering a building owned, run, and built with the distinct aim of fostering the writing, production and playing of live music. Having spent a great deal of time in The Michelberger, my connection comes from memories wrapped in rich emotions of amazing nights spent in the space.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkoyuHdsF3Y&t=4s&ab_channel=JimBeam

Like what you’re seeing? Stay tuned for episode four of the Jim Beam Welcome Sessions which will feature none other than UK garage outfit Wolf Alice!