Absolutely blazing 4-track EP from the boys at Audio Assault. Side A kicks off with the original version of the title cut, complete with unyielding percussion and wicked, off-key synth stabs. Next up is a remix by Vincent de Wit and Bas Mooy, which takes the original in an even more uncompromising direction. With brutal drum patterns, infections drops and trippy, depth charge like sound effects. The B Side features “Amazon”, a forward moving smoker with dark bassline, vocal stabs and a decidedly left-of-center production technique, and wraps up with the stand out here, “Pax International”. A roaring, dark techno drum track, this will destroy anything in its path and rounds out the set nicely. ****(4 of 5)
The 201 – Generation Gap vs. Jel Ford & Oscar Charlie – Jericho (UK)
Jericho is back with another first-rate EP. Side A features the ever reliable, Generation Gap with “Regenerate”, a stunning composition with lush keys, deep bass and a gorgeous, uplifting vibe. With potential spins from trance, progressive and techno DJs alike, this is as versatile a tune as you are likely to find. The flip features label boss Jel Ford, teaming up with Oscar Charlie on “Lazy Days”, a smooth, forward moving affair with hot percussion and a bombastic, Jesper Dahlbach style bassline. ****(4 of 5)
Energy For The Soul EP – Franssen vs. Lowdown – Genetic Recordings (BE)
Label owner and all around studio monster, Stanny Franssen once again teams up with Lowdown on Belgium based Genetic Recordings. Side A kicks off with “Energy For The Soul”, a groovy techno drum track, filled with moving percussion and a murky, electro influenced 303 bassline. Next up is “Mr. Bass”, an undiluted tribal flavored rocker, with double kicks and a bassline that will demolish anything in its path. The flip features the excellent “Voodooamt Remix” of the title cut. Taking things in a more soulful, Latin flavored direction, this track features funky drums, compelling bassline and a top of edits and drops make this the stand out cut here.*****(5 of 5)
