The After Stories | Vapoura Rum x The Mandrake | 16 · 07 · 26 | Vol. 1

Vapoura x The Mandrake marks the first in our After Stories series with a collaboration of craft  between Vapoura Rum, Chapter One and one of London's most iconic culturally led venues. Six tracks, all produced exclusively for the EP, each inspired and creatively led by different locations in The Mandrake and produced by two producers selected for their rare ability to tell story through sound.

The DJ’s

Caralus

Hailing from Manchester, UK, CARALUS is an emerging DJ and producer crafting a refined blend of deep organic groove and rolling percussive tech. Known for fluid selections and an instinctive sense of tension and release. As a producer, he is developing a distinctive percussive electronic sound rooted in groove and has DJ’d in amongst household names such as The Outernet in London, Hi in Ibiza as well as some of Manchester's most respected underground destinations. 

“Being involved with the After Stories project has been a truly beautiful experience. I’ve been deeply inspired by both Vapoura and The Mandrake, two brands whose commitment to staying true to their own identities and refusing to conform gave me such a strong creative foundation to build from.

What made this project particularly special was the challenge of stepping into a space, absorbing its energy, and imagining what each person might feel within it. That emotional connection became a vital part of the creative process. I’d never approached music in this way before, trying to emulate and encapsulate a physical space through sound, and there was something genuinely magical about translating those sensations into new music.

Having the opportunity to create something like this is something I’ll carry with me for a long time.”

Daniel Sehnawi

Daniel Sehnawi is a London-based DJ, music director and producer, fusing underground electronic music with rich Middle Eastern influence. With roots in Syria, his sound blends minimal and deep house into sets defined by rhythm, atmosphere and a deep connection to the room. He has played at the likes of Phonox, Steelyard and Scorpios, Mykonos and has supported some of the world's leading electronic artists including Luciano, Doudou MD and The Martinez Brothers.

“Being part of the After Stories project was a unique experience because it challenged me to think about music differently. As producers, we’re often inspired by emotions, people, or moments, but this project asked us to create music that reflected the atmosphere and character of a place.'

Working alongside Charlie felt incredibly natural, and from the beginning there was a strong creative understanding that allowed ideas to flow freely between us. Across both our individual tracks and the collaborative productions, there was a real sense of trust and creative freedom.

What I enjoyed most was exploring how different environments can influence sound and storytelling. Bringing together the worlds of The Mandrake and Vapoura made the project feel especially meaningful, and it reminded me that music can create a lasting connection to a moment, a feeling, and a place.”

The Tracks

Vapoura x The Mandrake marks the first in Vapoura Rum’s After Stories series with a collaboration of craft between Vapoura Rum, Chapter One and one of London's most iconic culturally led venues. Six tracks, all produced exclusively for the EP, each inspired and creatively led by different locations in The Mandrake and produced by two artists selected for their rare ability to tell story through sound.

1. Portal

Portal is a cinematic soundscape designed as a journey through sound and space. Inspired by the concept of transition, the track weaves together busy city textures, trains, voices and movement to evoke a sense of chaos. As it unfolds, subtle references to The Mandrake begin to emerge, mirroring the gradual shift from the outside world into a hidden oasis of calm and escapism.

2. Waeska

Inspired by the distinctive energy of Waeska, this track captures the balance between darkness and euphoria that defines the space. Driven by heavy drums, hypnotic rhythms and uplifting momentum, it reflects the atmosphere of a room where people gather, connect and lose themselves. As the energy builds, the track mirrors the moment the venue truly comes alive.

3. YOPO

YOPO explores a more intimate and emotional side of The Mandrake experience. Blending deep grooves, hypnotic movement and darker textures, the track reflects the natural transition from the vibrancy of the bar into a more immersive and contemplative environment. Warm, dance-driven rhythms underpin the composition, creating a sonic journey inspired by the mood, flow and atmosphere of The Mandrake after dark.

4. Jurema

Inspired by the secluded atmosphere of Jurema, this track draws on the feeling of a hidden jungle retreat set apart from the pace of London. Surrounded by greenery, organic textures and open-air energy, the space is reflected through hypnotic grooves, earthy percussion and flowing rhythms that feel alive and organic. Spacious arrangements capture the openness of the terrace, while darker minimal elements echo the mystery and intimacy that emerge after sunset.

5. Lava Tory

Lava Tory is a playful and unconventional composition built around a deep bassline and punchy groove. Drawing inspiration from the more eccentric side of The Mandrake, the track channels the venue's distinctive lighting, artwork and sense of intrigue. Curious and mischievous, it’s designed for late-night moments, inviting listeners deeper into its atmosphere with every phrase.

6. Mashahari

Inspired by the underground setting of The Theatre, this closing track combines exotic textures with the energy of driving tech-house culture. Built around rolling basslines, organic grooves and powerful percussion, it gradually evolves into a relentless pulse of rhythm and movement. Dark, immersive and captivating, the track reflects the magnetic energy of a space designed to draw people in and keep them there.