Today we’d like to introduce you to Ray Barragan
Ray, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Hi my name is Ray Barragan, also known as Capes, a DJ and producer behind Sensory Signal —a DIY event series and record label celebrated for its avant-garde approach to dance music, nestled in the vibrant shadows of Downtown Los Angeles.
Like any other adolescent growing up in an urban city. I discovered DIY at a very young age. My older siblings were a huge part the punk trend from the early 2000s skate scene, through them I immersed myself in a whirlwind of hardcore shows even before I finished elementary school. It became a catalyst for self-discovery, forging my identity through musical exploration and a rebellious spirit.
My upbringing was steeped in italo disco and freestyle, so much so that I can’t pinpoint my first encounter with dance music—it was simply always there. My mom was what the Chicano community called a ‘disco loca’, frequenting backyard bashes and banquet halls in the 80s, bringing home records that became the soundtrack to our Sunday chores and family gatherings.
As I grew older, I discovered how these seemingly disparate influences coalesced perfectly within DIY culture, forming connections that bridged the gaps in Manchester’s iconic Factory Records sound. This fusion played a pivotal role in my angsty high school years. During college, the indie sleaze, electroclash, and disco scenes dominated, and I found solace in parties like A Club called Rhonda and underground warehouse gatherings such as Sarcastic Disco and Making Shapes—places where echoes of my musical heritage reverberated.
This journey ignited such a fire within me that I eventually traded in my punk band for turntables and began DJing myself. It’s been a wild ride, but one that has seamlessly woven together the threads of my past into a vibrant tapestry of musical expression and personal evolution.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Engaging with the underground scene comes with challenges—pain, loss, and defeat are inevitable.
It’s counterculture; people often don’t understand you.
But the beauty lies in finding others who are just like you, creating a community that shares your passions. That sense of belonging and connection is the most rewarding part.
The trials we face shape us as we grow older, and I’m incredibly grateful to have witnessed the growth of Sensory Signal alongside my friends and family.
It proves that people can still come together, even in difficult times.
While the news often highlights division, hatred, and conflict, our events showcase love, care, music, happiness, and dancing.
There’s nothing better than that.
We all have our day jobs, but these moments allow us to truly be ourselves and feel like kids again.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m both a musician and a promoter who aims to bring global awareness to the vibrant Los Angeles electronic music scene. What sets me apart is my unique taste and eye for design, allowing me to represent our scene in a way that resonates worldwide.
I’m most proud of the family and community I’ve found through my work in music. Without them, none of this would exist.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I’d like to first highlight my partner in crime, Jesus Lemus, also known as Adult Hits. We co-founded Sensory Signal together, and he’s been instrumental in our design work, flyers, and overall creative direction. It’s an absolute joy to work with him and have him on our team. He’s also an exceptional DJ and producer.
On the production front, I have to tip my hat to Geoffrey Kirkwood, a.k.a. Manpower, who brought me in at a young age and pushed me to be the best version of myself, both in the studio and on the big stage.
Lastly, but certainly not least, Lionel Rifkin, my soul brother in Club Tularosa, who i’ve had the pleasure of touring the world with several times over. He taught me so much through DJing. Pushing the boundaries in the studio and on the decks. Always striving to be the most memorable set after every show – leaving the crowd wanting more.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.instagram.com/__capes__/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sensorysignal
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/capesss
Image Credits
All photo credits to Eduardo Joo (@Edujoo)
