Friday, May 20, 2016

Fractal Architect - Minuteman EP [SMD138]

In a mass produced world where dance music is never more commonplace, UK producer, Daniel Watts, stands apart as he brings his own unique stamp of authority through his Fractal Architect production moniker. As Suffused Music continues to demonstrate a rising prominence within the underground dance industry, their 138th release brings the “Minuteman” EP to a strong and growing fan base.

Blurring the lines between genres with his vibrant “brand of melodic electronic dance music”, Fractal Architect combines the styles of techno and house in an unrivalled mastery of his craft that remains at the vanguard of the underground scene. A man at the cutting edge of sound design, a unique passion to derive emotion from the binary world of computer technology, has seen Watts tackle the paradox head on, ever-inspired by familial bonds. A DJ at the dawn of rave culture in the early 1990s, Watts became responsible for introducing the iconic sounds of Richie Hawtin and Joey Beltram to an unsuspecting public with his DJ performances alongside Nick Warren, and Carl Cox.

Over one-hundred-and-fifty production credits to his name, the Fractal Architect sound has seen itself allied to some of the finest modern imprints and supported by leading industry tastemakers that include Argentinean maestro, Hernan Cattaneo. A debut in the shape of the “Shadowlands” EP for always-impressive melodic techno imprint, Callote, marked an incipient production career that continued to spiral ever-skywards with a raft of original work for Mirabilis, Stripped Digital and the iconic Paul Hazendonk owned, Manual Music and MNL. Most recently, the three-track “Diorma” EP for Baroque in May 2016, continues to demonstrate an impressive and growing portfolio.

Now marking a debut for Suffused Music, Fractal Architect opens his account for the label with the twin-track, “Minuteman” EP. Opening proceedings, the title track is a brooding techno offering that drives relentlessly forward with trademark genre kick and off-beat hi-hat percussion. Belying early simplicity, complex melodic sequences cascade across the stereo spectrum in dizzying analogue glory, marking a coruscating path infused with Watts’ penchant for emotion and feeling. A rich bass line adds further depth and texture in a work of genuine skill and striking production technique.

Partner track, “The Routes We Choose” continues the themes of its predecessors as a nine minute plus voyage of melodic discovery quickly hits its stride. Strong in techno credentials, chord progressions provide genuine atmosphere and emotive textures as a bouncing bass line supplies dance floor dynamism. Displaying an array of production techniques that hallmark tracks of high quality, a vocoded vocal line adds further depth in a work that builds to a scintillating zenith in the third movement as counterpoint melodies converge in dazzling fashion.

A Suffused Music debutant, Fractal Architect explodes onto the underground scene with vibrant intensity through “Minuteman”.

Text by James Warren
Picture by Brett Jordan
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Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Eugene Loner - Microcosmos EP incl. Aman Anand, Altek, Greg Tomaz [SMD137]

With the ability to scout talented artists within and beyond its Lithuanian borders, fellow countryman, Eugene Loner, once more returns to the label that saw his debut on the “Initializing 2014” compilation with “Microcosmos”. A pair of original EPs have subsequently followed and it is with great pleasure that Suffused Music now sees a third outing for the popular debut release, backed by a trio of exciting remixes.

Fans of Loner and “Microcosmos” will immediately recognize the clave percussion opening that pings across the stereo spectrum in dizzying fashion while a rich bass line provides a dark undertone. A chorus of additional production material in the shape of pads and effects add to the aural mélange as a searing acetylene lead punches its way to the fore backed by a subtle arpeggio riff.

Indian based, Greg Tomaz is first up on remix duties. Lofty ambitions to use music “as a way of bringing light into one’s consciousness” supply Tomaz’s musical raison d’être and with work featured on such celebrated imprints as Soundteller, Stripped and Balkan Connection South America, his approach to production has borne much fruit. Now remixing Eugene Loner, Tomaz’s approach immediately echoes the original with a stripped back treatment of the “Microcosmos” clave percussion, enriched by a shuffling, syncopated hi-hats that revel in a pounding beat and side-chained bass line. The dark energy of the original is omnipresent as an intelligent reworking of arpeggio treatment brings subtle emphasis shift to a work of poise.

Mexican producer, Altek, is a Suffused Music debutant imprint. A prolific producer since the last quarter of 2014, a half-century of Beatport productions credits have led the South American to a plethora of impressive labels that include Green Martian, Bonzai Progressive and Four Peas. An active 2016 now sees Altek impress with a downtempo approach to “Microcosmos”. Retaining the strong lead line of the original at regular intervals, a sensual bass line ripples through a near ten-minute voyage of texture and precise percussive cadence. Loner’s arpeggio sequence features post-breakdown adding a further layer in an interesting remix.

A final offering sees Singapore and Bangalore based, Aman Anand, return to Suffused Music for the first time since a remix of Ethereal Mist in 2014. An artist of considerable pedigree, the self-taught producer has found himself allied to some of the finest modern underground labels that include Balkan Connection, OLD SQL and the Indian based, Juice Box Music. Furthermore, a contribution to the “Sudbeats III” compilation via “Raikou” in 2015 stamped a hallmark of quality on a career with a rapidly rising upwards trajectory. Supported by such luminaries as Cattaneo, Pappa and Secret Cinema, the Aman Anand treatment of “Microcosmos” is a strong, shimmering reworking that captures the sentiments of Eugene Loner’s original through percussive echoes while adding a dominant beat and generous additional production material. Meandering melodic sequences wend their path with consummate ease and the resulting, skillful work epitomizes the ‘less is more’ mantra.

A trio of new remixes from Greg Tomaz, Altek and Aman Anand have illustrated that Eugene Loner’s “Microcosmos” is expanding at an exponential rate.

Eugene Loner - Microcosmos (Original Mix) [Suffused Music]
Eugene Loner - Microcosmos (Greg Tomaz Remix) [Suffused Music]
Eugene Loner - Microcosmos (Altek Remix) [Suffused Music]
Eugene Loner - Microcosmos (Aman Anand Remix) [Suffused Music]

Text by James Warren
Picture by Zsolt Fila
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Monday, May 16, 2016

Dr Avalance & Goda Brother - Electronic Devices EP incl. Alex Vidal, Bobby Deep, Zan Prevee [SMD136]


The 136th release on Suffused Music welcomes Dr. Avalance and Goda Brother to the label for a brand new single. Having appeared 15 times previously Dr. Avalance is a label veteran while Goda Brother is making his debut. This first time collaboration has yielded exceptional results in the form of 'Electronic Devices' alongside remixes from Alex Vidal, Bobby Deep and Zan Prevee.

The original mix kicks the release off and finds a magical place almost immediately as the duo's fusion of styles meets in a place of harmonic bliss. Backed by a warm, fluid groove Dr. Avalance and Goda Brother methodically build intriguing themes and a smooth rhythmic cadence. A magical main break showcases the duos strong musical motifs while a wispy backdrop takes you further into the heavens. It serves as the flawless prelude to a warm, exhilarating finale that's perfectly dialled for the summer season ahead.

The first interpretation is provided by Alex Vidal who is making his third appearance on the label. The Spanish artist has been pushing his unique brand of progressive trance since making his production debut in September of 2013. He calls Bonzai Records and JOOF Records home while also having a long line of productions on Mistique Music and Stellar Fountain. For his 'Electronic Devices' interpretation Alex takes the piece into deep trance territory all while keeping an emphasis on the dreamy qualities which made the original so alluring. Waves of synths descend over the pulsating framework all throughout a driving first act before an emotive break provides what is perhaps the releases most heartfelt moment. Coming off much more indistinct than the original, it's wispy, swirling collage of sonics is breathtaking and when the warmth of the groove returns it's game over.

The second interpenetration of 'Electronic Devices' is provided by Bobby Deep who is making his second appearance on the label. The Greek producer is a long time veteran of the progressive house underground with a discography of over 400 entries. Notable appearances on Movement Recordings and Mistique Music have highlighted Bobby storied career and he turns in a wonderful rework of 'Electronic Devices’ here. With a more house oriented approach the Greek artist has crafted the ultimate terrace tune. Gorgeous bells, wispy vocals and a funky low-end make for an energetic yet emotive journey and perhaps one of Bobbby's all time best remixes as well.

The third and final interpretation of 'Electronic Devices' comes from Zan Prevee who is returning to Suffused Music for his second appearance. The Greek producer has been a staple on BCSA, Majestic Family, Mistique Music and Stellar Fountain over the years. His lone appearance on Suffused Music came in January of 2015 with a remix of Net Son and Lucas Hache. For his 'Electronic Devices' interpretation Zan has gone deep and dubby with excellent results. With an emphasis on rhythm and groove the Greek producer has laid down a perfect late night rework. Hypnotic refrains and ethereal waves take you into the tracks emotional core, ultimately peaking following a near two minute break packed full of otherworldly moments. Wonderful remix from

Zan and a perfectly styled release from Suffused Music to kick off the spring and summer season. Don't miss it.

Dr. Avalance & Goda Brother - Electronic Devices (Original Mix) [Suffused Music]
Dr. Avalance & Goda Brother - Electronic Devices (Alex Vidal Remix) [Suffused Music]
Dr. Avalance & Goda Brother - Electronic Devices (Bobby Deep Remix) [Suffused Music]
Dr. Avalance & Goda Brother - Electronic Devices (Zan Prevee Remix) [Suffused Music]

Text by Mitch Alexander (Release Promo | microCastle)
Picture by Cea +
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Sunday, May 15, 2016

Dynamic Illusion & Kelly Noland - Run Away Part2 incl. GBrown, KIDD Corp, Sean McClellan [SMD135]

The 135th release on Suffused Music finds the label revisiting Dynamic Illusion's 'Run Away EP'. Released in November of 2015 the four track offering showcased the Hungarian artists pendant for all things deep and progressive, along with the title selection, a gorgeous vocal cut in collaboration with Kelly Noland. Now as we enter the warm summer months Suffused Music presents new interpretations of 'Run Away' courtesy of Gary J. Brown aka GBrown, Sean McClellan and KIDD Corp. 

The release begins with GBrown returning to Suffused Music for his second appearance following a contribution to the labels Initializing Vol. 9 collection in April. Based in New Orleans, USA Gary has been exploring deeper shades of house and techno for the better part of the last 5 years. Returning to Suffused Music he takes 'Run Away' and reshapes it into a dark progressive minded production aimed squarely at the dance floor. Beginning with tough beats, growling synths and reprocessed vocals it doesn't take long before you're fully engaged in this one. Rugged stabs and razor sharp designs cut through the atmosphere while a trail of vocals add a sense of despair as the main break commences. Sparse and calculated, the tracks centrepiece continues the dark narrative with sonically mulched vocals once again taking centre stage and ultimately setting up an epic finale. A cutting edge interpretation from GBrown and one the progressive underground is sure to enjoy. 

The second interpretation of 'Run Away' is provided by Sean McClellan who is making his eighth appearance on Suffused Music. The US artist's history in electronic music has been well documented with appearances on John Digweed's Bedrock Records and the long standing Baroque imprint being highlights. His timeless approach is a welcome addition to any project and he's turned in an exceptional interpretation of 'Run Away'. Keeping the mysterious tone of the original well intact Sean works rugged synths and vocal snips throughout the first act before smooth chord changes up the emotional content. A pair of synth overlays converge for a blissful moment, tastefully done it seals a strong third act and the tracks overall brilliance as a result. Wonderful remix from Sean.

The release concludes with KIDD Corp making their label debut. This newly formed quartet includes Gabor Darnoci, Daniel Gyarmati (aka. Dynamic Illusion), Krisztian Kovacs and Imre Szegedi who have come together to cultivate the real values of the progressive legacy and future from a wholehearted perspective. They close the release out with a chillout interpretation of 'Run Away'. Led by broken beats and sultry rhythms, Kelly's vocal shines amidst a delicate and heartfelt storyboard which leaves you wanting to hear more from this new found production team. A fabulous end to a top notch remix pack from Suffused Music. Don't miss it. 

Dynamic Illusion & Kelly Noland - Run Away (Gary J. Brown Aka GBrown Remix) [Suffused Music]
Dynamic Illusion & Kelly Noland - Run Away (Sean McClellan Paramnesia Remix) [Suffused Music]
Dynamic Illusion & Kelly Noland - Run Away (KIDD Corp 'ChillOut' Mix) [Suffused Music]

Text by Mitch Alexander (Release Promo | microCastle)
Picture by Rookuzz
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DP-6 - Synesthesia EP [SMD134]

As spring warmth begins to emerge from beneath winter’s icy shroud, Suffused Music ushers in seasonal vivacity with its continuing mission to provide listeners with vital new underground dance music. The 134th release being no exception, Russian duo, DP-6, reprise their appearance on the label with a brand new twin-track EP in the shape of “Synethesia”.

Formed at the start of the new millennium, Alexey Filin and Vadim Indigo have supplied a strong fan base with over a triple century of production credits and live performances via their DP-6 production moniker. Ever-mindful of the changing face of underground dance music, the pair have continued to evolve a sound that has trodden the well-worn path from club floor to virtual stores in impressive manner.

Able to develop a unique sound that has seen support from the world’s DJ elite while regularly featuring in Beatport charts and radio shows of the global DJ community, their own “DP-6 Presents Russian Minds” show on PureFM has highlighted a passion for curating the finest dance music into a coherent and established show.

Developed to stand as “more than just a project”, the continual hard work within the studio environment has seen DP-6 create “their own philosophy”. With over two-hundred production credits for their own DP-6 Records imprint, in addition to work for leading underground labels including Naked Lunch, System Recordings and In Fact, 2010’s remix of E-Spectro’s “I Can Describe” also found its way onto Moonbeam’s “Venus” compilation for leading mainstream trance imprint, Black Hole.

Now following up on the “Eclipse” EP in January of this year, DP-6 return to Suffused Music with the exciting “Synethesia” EP. Charting a fascinating neurological phenomenon through their music, the title track itself is a dark, brooding affair that shifts relentlessly forward through ticking percussive hi-hats and deep kick, while a smooth bass pattern flows hypnotically throughout. A delicate, twinned swirl resonates periodically, while subtle cadence shifts, intelligent melodic sequences and white noise effects, keep interest high in a work that showers aural colour over its rich sound palette.

Partner track, “Twistor Space”, continues the hypnotic subterranean depths of its predecessor as a laid back percussive groove develops effortlessly, backed by multi-faceted pad textures and imperceptible chord progressions. Using production effects to impressive effect, long reverb tails and clever delay patterns evoke aural impressions of deep space in a timeless work that revels in dynamic melodic sequences in the third and fourth movements of a near eleven-minute sonic odyssey.

Capturing the essence of the “Synesthesia” phenomenon in aural form, DP-6 continues to transcend the boundaries of modern underground dance music,

Text by James Warren
Picture by Generic Brand Productions
Mastered by Cid Inc.
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