Monday, July 17, 2023

MeowWow, 08 Orbit & Miyoki-Celestia [Of Us Records]

 

There have been so many exceptional releases over the past months it can be hard to keep track of them all. One of the latest releases that has caught my attention is an uncanny collaboration between absolute rising stars who definitely deserve any attention they may get in the dance music cosmos! "MeowWow" and "08 Orbit" are no strangers making waves in the scene with collaborations such as the aural masterpiece they worked on together, "Tears In The Rain" which was released on the mighty "Perfecto Records" by dance music legend "Paul Oakenfold". This time these two have been joined by talented singer/songwriter "Miyoki". The result of their endeavors is the wonderful "Celestia" out on "Of Us Records".

We are welcomed aboard by deep, pounding basslines, a light percussion and a smooth breeze of melodic goodness. When the word "Celestia" is uttered like a faint whisper as if from a fairy tale-like being a joyous yet melodramatic dance of vocal delight floods our ever receiving ears. "Miyoki" wails on pouring out what resides deep into the chasms of her soul while an ethereal violin-like instrument joins in the dance perfectly complementing her performance, transporting us to an aerial eternal palace high above the clouds. When the leads come rushing in like a tidal wave amongst it all, our soul rejoices from the emotional rush we are exposed to by these three amazing artists. 

A rare treat is the appearance of ascending hero "Danny Stubbs" assuming remix duties. Known for his formidable original productions on labels such as "Perfecto" and beyond he has also been known to deliver killer remixes as well. Danny has provided us with two versions to satisfy everyone's needs. A "Chill Out Remix" for those craving a more relaxed, blissful escape from the world and of course a dynamic remix suitable for the clubs.

"Danny Stubbs Remix": Danny has beefed up the main bassline, slightly upping the tempo while keeping the melodic assets of the tune in utter harmony. "Miyoki's" vocal is enhanced with filter effects and a slight echo giving it more of an ethereal essence, while adding a chopped vox serenade driving the emotional factor further. A playful touch is evident. The break in the track sports a return of the chopped vox serenade while celestial melodies come rushing in like the tide itself. Wonderful remix work indeed!

"Chill Out Remix": It is what one may expect by the name. Slower paced, ethereal and utterly focused on the melodic goodness and vocal brilliance. Emotional, heartfelt, magical. Made for watching the sun descend into the sea while colors of all hues fill the sky and the waters move as if in a silent mystical dance.

Released: 30/6/23

Label: Of Us Records  

https://www.beatport.com/release/celestia/4138354 

Thursday, July 6, 2023

KaNa-Episode 10 [Snow Freques]

 


The whole beauty of the dance music world is the utter realization that new artists emerge out of the woodwork and arise, blooming like the rarest flowers, bringing their own vibrancy, color and scent to the world, thus enriching the already fruitful array of endless music alongside the established favorite artists of yesteryear. One of these artists hails from the land of the rising sun, a true artist who is passionate for her work, creating truly beautiful tracks while baring her soul unto the world! "KaNa" has illuminated our world with her vast array of releases always bringing something new and special to the scene. Her new E.P dubbed "Episode 10" is released on her home label "Snow Freques" and consists of four tracks each with their own significance and importance. Let's have a look within shall we?

"Play Of Colour" has that beloved melodic house essence to it that was championed around 2006 by the likes of "Tiesto" on albums such as the iconic "In Search Of Sunrise: Los Angeles". Melodic bliss, light percussion and a relaxed, feel good vibe unfolds complete with ethereal melodic droplets and lush piano medleys that can be found tucked away in the break of the tune. All this carries us away into a sea of serenity and infinite harmony.

"Play Of Colour (Meloless Mix)" is an alternative take on the previous tune as you may easily discover. This one stays relatively true to the original's tendencies while slightly altering a few of the elements, giving it a more organic dance music approach.

"Cosmoclock 21 (Kyohei Akagawa Remix)" is a track that was already included on the previous release by "KaNa" which was was well received by the public. No surprise that artists would be interested in giving their take on the beloved track. First in line is "Kyohei Akagawa". His version of the track slows things down a tad while focusing on the lush melodies and tranquil state while mixing it up with a kind of a breakbeatish attitude. Lush and fierce patterns of sound clash as if competing against each other. The easily recognizable chopped vox from the original are here as well adding a bit of mischief to the tune itself. An original approach by Kyohei.

"Adularescence" is the final track of the package. Percussion plays a big role here shaking things up while the rhythmical bassline sets the tone. Glass-like melodies flutter in and out alongside passionate sun drenched melodies and classical strings which add the appropriate dosage of drama to the mix. Audio fragments of nature add a peaceful essence to the tune giving it a definite blissful state. Fond memories of a joyous time in nature are surely evident here. Harmonious, beautiful, serene!

Something for everyone here, "KaNa" has certainly been inspired!

Label: Snow Freques

https://kanaijuin.bandcamp.com/album/episode-10