Compelling EP from DJ Lucca and the crew at F1 Recordings. Originally released on Aquatrax, Mirage is given four distinctly diverse and effective reworkings from some of the most gifted names in the techno business. The "Carl Taylor Mix" is up first and takes the listener on a twisted, trippy, tribal-infused journey that will slowly but surely rock anything in its path. Up next is the "Umek Mix" which transports the track from early set mover to main room anthem with massive synth stabs and a driving drum track. The 12" concludes with two brilliant outings from Chris Cowie. "Mix 1" delivers us to a more minimal, subtle space, while "Mix 2" takes it deep with grinding bass, filtered keys and a ton of gritty power. ****(4 of 5)
Kazane - Hiroki Esashika - Intec (UK)
Two tracks of funky, soulful, tech house from Japanese newcomer Hiroki
Esashika and the crew at Carl Cox's Intec imprint. Track 1 is a
simple, hard-rocking jam with gripping rhythms, growing tension and a
massive, electro-flavored bassline that takes the you on a compelling
journey. The flip is the real jewel here with hot percussion, old
school Detroit-flavored synth stabs, vocal samples and lush, dreamy
undertones. With remixes said to follow, this is lining up to be a
big summertime crossover smash. ****(4 of 5)
Reanimate EP - Andre Walter & Chris Hope - Audio Assault (NL)
Three tracks of ripping techno bombs from the Audio Assault boys.
This EP features a collaboration of two of the hottest producers on
the scene, Andre Walter (known for his production work with Chris
Liebing and his own Wicca imprint) and Chris Hope. Side A features a
straight-ahead, body rocking mover with driving percussion, grinding
stabs and a hot-to-death, tension-building breakdown. The first cut
on Side B is an absolutely ferocious monster with blazing rhythms and
eerie, dark undertones. The EP concludes with another for-the-jugular
destroyer with fierce beats and old school synth stabs. Hot release. *****(5 of 5)
Miles and More EP - Marko Nastic - Earresistible Music (DE)
Another brilliant release from rising star Marco Nastic. "Miles and
More" is a slow-developing, grinding tech house monster complete with
funky bassline, rising percussion and grating stabs that drive the
track onward and upwards. "Swinging Around" is next and takes us on a
trippy, old school, acid-infused journey reminiscent of recent Marco
Carola productions. The EP concludes with "Wet Stewardess," a groovy,
tech-house mover with blazing beats and soulful, repetitive synth
stabs that will slowly trip your crowd (and you) out. ****(4 of 5)