Quincy Weigert-Silhouette E.P [Nethertapes Records]

 

The year 2023 has already brought forth many amazing releases our way. Always joyful to showcase new and exciting releases by some of the dance music scene's most talented and diverse artists out there. One of the artists that has gained my respect with his steady flow of releases and increased quality time after time through his music is American DJ/Producer "Quincy Weigert". Have featured several of his releases in the past and when I listened to his new musical offering, the thrilling "Silhouette E.P", I was compelled to write yet another review! The aforementioned E.P consists of two gripping tracks: "Silhouette" and "Afterdark" and is out on his home label "Nethertape Records". Let's peer inside this mesmerizing aural offering shall we?

 "Silhouette": Distant voices like long lost spirits drift in among sturdy basslines, dark patterns and western inspired guitar riffs thus creating a truly unique sounding atmosphere. Rushes of sound much like the rustling of leaves and curious melodies move through the mix while haunting female vocals eerily float within the tune sending chills down our spines. A truly unique tune that has a lot to offer and will amaze the clubbers wherever it is played out!

 "Afterdark": Chugging basslines, intriguing melodies and nefarious synths lay about forming a rather bleak and brooding aural picture before us! Female vocal wails and calls much like the enchantresses of old tempt us further inward. Assorted effects and epic melodies further complete this aural imagery as we find ourselves getting utterly lost, searching wide eyed through the thick mist and darkness equipped with only flaming torches to guide us through these dark, uncharted lands. Curiosity, adventure and an inner calling to the deepest depths of our being pushes us further on to the discovery of this dark, mystical, treacherous world! Another epic tune to add to your vast musical libraries!

 Quincy has done it again providing us with a truly memorable E.P that will without a doubt appeal to all the dance music lovers out there!

Released: 31/3/2023

Label: Nethertapes Records  

https://www.beatport.com/release/silhouette/4036098 

Paul Sawyer-30 Years A DJ (Album Review)

 

In any line of work or creative process there are key factors for the prosperous journey that lies ahead. Passion, determination and of course talent are definitely needed. In the following case "Paul Sawyer", one of the world's finest DJ's and producers has certainly left his mark in the dance music scene. We have all cherished and danced along to his exquisitely crafted tunes or remixes on many occasions. In addition to his vast body of work, be it originals, ecstatic collaborations or sublime remix work, he owns and operates his very own label "Krafted" alongside "Simon Sinfield" and "Darren Braddick". Being in the game for quite a spell, he has been climbing that ever elusive and never ending ladder of success, which a select few manage to reach the very top. Paul has without a doubt been conquering the dance music lovers hearts all these years. 

 The year 2023 is a very special one for Paul as he reaches a very significant milestone in his career: thirty years of involvement in the scene! Thirty glorious years of djing, producing and in general honing his craft! To celebrate this marvelous occasion he has sat down, reflecting on his past and has selected thirty of his most special and defining works of aural art to share with us on his forthcoming new album "30 Years A DJ". I am very pleased to have had the honor to listen and therefore devour the whole album from start to finish. Immerse yourselves into a wondrous, spellbinding journey through sound, orchestrated by Paul himself as he sees fit. 

CD1:

A perfect introduction to the musical domain of "Paul Sawyer" is his own production "Stay Around", an emotive, riveting enriched tune filled with melodic goodness, proggy grooves and one of those deep feelings, enriched by an Adele-like female vocal excellence. Each tune follows the pace accordingly, adding its own flavor and ethereal note to the musical experience at hand. Paul features thrilling remixes of his own creations such as "Zeus (Tripswitch Remix)", "Nemesis (Nick Muir Remix)", "Hermes (Black8 Remix)", exclusive collaborations with artists such as "Sunscreem" on "Perfect Motion" and the illustrious singer/songwriter "Jan Johnston" on "One Step Beyond". He fills in the blanks with his own productions such as "Quora" and his own remixes including "Midnight On The Damavand-GuyRo", "Shade-Valleraphon feat. Dashoda", finishing off with the spiritual, healing vibes of his amazing take on the 90's vocal tune "And Then The Rain Falls-Blue Amazon". A spellbinding blend of tunes to amaze and delight the senses!

CD2:

This disc begins with Paul's tune "Endless Path", an adventurous track sporting, tech-infused grooves with an essence of mystery throughout it all. The theme continues with another of his own productions, the mystical and vibrant "Meridian" alongside hit remixes by himself on tracks such as "Forever-Lostly feat. Katherine Amy", "I Want You Here-Solarstone feat. Thea Riley", the re-energized remix of "Monster In Me-Paul Oakenfold feat. Allison Kaplan", "Falling Down-Darkersound feat. ALNA"and the witty "Life-Stormshaker feat. Stephen Biddle". A killer deep and proggy collaboration called "Reverie" between himself, ascending hero "Danny Stubbs" with the always enthralling singer/songwriter "Susie Ledge" and his very own "Riotous", screaming with progressive house goodness, inverted rhythms and grooves reminiscent of the classic days of dance. A nod to the legendary synthesizers of old. Excellent way to seal the deal!

CD3:

What more to expect when one's heart and soul is already content with the musical pleasure we already experienced on the previous discs. "Cacus" welcomes us aboard for the final chapter of the journey, another original from Paul, boasting dark rhythms, dramatic twists and distorted synths of a haunting nature. Perfect for those early hours of madness on the dance floor. Strobe light galore! The vibe continues with another of Paul's tunes "Neptune" dedicated to the sea God of old Greek myths which perfectly captures life in the long lost kingdom under the sea! His remixes are also present here such as "Solar Warde-William Medagli, Thallulah and Shemsu" alongside originals "Reign", "Textured Dream", "Hercules" plus exciting collabs such as the wonderful "The Wave (feat. Laura Welle)", packing breathtaking melodies and a mesmerizing vocal performance by Laura herself, "Where Do We Go (with Damien Spencer)" and of course an absolute divine remix work on his own tunes by upcoming star "ZOYA" on "Burning (feat. Laura Welle)" and "08Pulse" on his most memorable tune with the wondrous singer/songwriter "Ana Be" on "Waiting All My Life", which receives a total makeover, taking us all on an emotional almost acoustic and orchestral experience. A fitting end to this third disc and finale for the album itself.

 What an aural journey through years of experiences, emotions, audio harnessing and surreal craftsmanship! So much love and passion has gone into this album. All this is evident through the exquisite and diverse selection of these thirty tracks! Do not waste any time at all! Grab this for your collection! 

Label: Krafted Underground

https://www.beatport.com/release/paul-sawyer-30-years-a-dj/3941327 

AN93-Icebreaker [Coldharbour Black]

 

It is always great to discover new releases every month especially when there have been so many cool tunes already this year. One can never have enough music, being the dance music fiends that we are, we devour each amazing tune out there, eagerly awaiting the next! Here it is! 

Lithuanian artist Andrej Anskinas, widely known under his artist name "Anske", is one of those artists that continue to evolve and thrive in the scene, each tune he unleashes more beautiful than the next. He recently delighted us with the birth of a new alias he dubbed "AN93" which showcases his ties to a techier, darker side, an alter ego if you will. His previous single under this alias "Spacewarp", was greeted with much admiration when released on "Coldharbour Recordings" sub-label "Coldharbour Black". Now he is back once more on "Markus Schulz's" beloved imprint with the uber cool tune "Icrebreaker".

 High energy kicks, a hyped up percussion and a supercharged rhythm unfolds from early on. Dark grooves burst out into the open, while a semi-distorted synth takes control, engulfing it all like a dark, threatening cloud. The brief break arrives in due time, bringing with it moments of a temporary tranquility right before a rare transformation occurs. What was once peaceful and tranquil like serene, frozen waters, now becomes a tidal wave of a savage and aggressive power like the wrath of mother nature herself. The build is relentless, toying with our senses making us crave every beat while we find ourselves helplessly dancing in a feverish state!

 Huge release by "Anske" that will shatter the dance floors like a double headed axe through a frozen lake!

Released: 10/3.2023

Label: Coldharbour Black  

https://www.beatport.com/release/icebreaker/4043678 

Exclusive Interview with Steve Dekay!

Over the last years Latin America has been providing the dance music world with some of the most consistent, versatile and talented artists out there. From "Hernan Cattaneo" to "Heatbeat" and "KhoMha", all of them attain the raw talent, motivation and love for the music they played. No surprise they all elevated themselves in the dance music cosmos and continue the gradual ascent to further success! Another talented artist to emerge onto the aforementioned scene comes to us from Colombia. 

 Steven Rengifo is known in the world of dance music under his artist name "Steve Dekay". A producer of undeniable talent, Steve has found success in the field under his own brand name and his alter ego "Skender", one suited for the darker, techier sound he has ushered into the world. His creations have found a home on esteemed labels such as "Critical State", "Universal Nation", "Who's Afraid Of 138?", "Suanda", "Future Sound Of Egypt" and "Coldharbour Recordings" among many others. An artist who lives for his craft and continues to push the boundaries of his sound, a fact that can easily be seen in his body of work and pesky bootlegs of favorite tracks of yesteryear. Aside from his production abilities, Steve has conquered the populous' hearts while gaining a loyal following over the years as a prominent DJ as well. His terrific past performances lead him to a wondrous European tour in 2023 through some of clubland's finest landmarks such as "Ibiza", "Prague", "Madrid" and "Zurich". 

 Following his career over the years, it was only natural that I would like to have the honor to conduct an exclusive interview with him for "MusicTalk15". Fate intervened and I was delighted to not only make an imminent to "Prague" in "The Czech Republic", a city of amazing architecture and stunning beauty, but to also witness the magician in action at "Radost FX" for the mighty "TranceNation Reloaded!" So here it is, the interview I have been promising you, exclusively for your reading pleasure! Thanks for everything man!

Question 1: How did you first discover the wonderful world of dance music and what was the key factor that got you hooked?

I discovered the world of dance music when I was a kid, I remember I liked to dance with my brother, jumping in our room listening to those Trance classics.

The most beautiful thing I like of this music is the melody, it is everything!

Question 2: You certainly have a unique artist name. Could you please share the story behind its inception? 

"Steve Dekay" is a project I started in 2014 approximately, all my music skills are completely empyrical. I remember I watched a lot of tutorials and read some forums about how to make dance music. So in 2015 was when I started this project professionally and focused in Trance and Progressive music.

Actually I'm working on Techno music too, using some Trance elements, like melodies etc.

Question 3: You have been working in the studio feverishly, producing loads of new music. What inspires you to create such special tracks and are any of them inspired by real life events or personal experiences?

The inspiration comes from random moments in my life, it could be by listening to other genres, a movie etc. But it also comes from some personal experiences like visiting new cities or countries, meeting new cultures etc.

Question 4: We certainly are aware of your tremendous productions under your main artist name. Really been loving your work under your alter ego “Skender” as well. What is the significance behind it and what led you to conjure up an alias?

As I said before, under "Steve Dekay" I make Trance music, but actually I'm working on more Techno tunes, that's the reason I wanted to create a new alias focused like 'in a dark side' of dance music, in this case with Techno, Melodic Techno. I like Techno very melodic but also dark and harder too. That's what I'm currently working on.

Question 5: You recently came back from your first European tour which included several gigs in Ibiza, Madrid and Prague amongst others. How did you enjoy the whole process and experience and how did it feel to connect with your fans from all over the world?

These experiences were really GREAT! Because I met new people, new places, new cultures and the most important thing, I enjoyed my music with different crowds, every crowd with its passion for music, so every crowd is different and very special, so it's something that will surely remain in my memories.

Question 6: Speaking of recent events your explosive performance in Prague for “TranceNation Reloaded” was a huge success! As one being there I certainly witnessed the crowd loving it and devouring tune after tune. How did you enjoy the event and the marvelous city of Prague in general?

That event was really good! I love the 'intimate' clubs where you are very close to the fans, where you can feel that heat from the crowd, so yes it was really good!

And the city, wow, it's just beautiful! I hope to be there again soon!

Question 7: One of the tunes that stood out for me and the rest of the audience during your performance at “TranceNation” was your remix of the beloved tune “Played-A-Live” by “Safri-Duo”. Are there any plans for an official release in the near future?

I love that remix, it got a really good reaction every place I played this tune and yeah I'm working to release it as an official release soon! :D

Question 8: The latest fashion over the last years is reinventing classic tunes from the distant past. Is there a certain track or tracks that you would like to remix to your heart’s content and for what reason?

There are some classic tracks I always wanted to make my own remix of, like "Home" by "Paul van Dyk & Johnny McDaid", this track is pure gold! The melody, the drums, the vocals! It's just a beautiful tune!

Question 9: Aside from your musical interests do you perhaps have any hobbies or favorite pass times?

I'm a football lover haha so yeah I like watching it and playing it too and also working out.

Question 10: Are you a fan of a specific movie or series? If so have you ever considered remixing music from it or creating a track in tribute to it?

I like series about thriller, time travel and about the universe, I'm a big fan of the movies or series and I want to create my own version of 'Interstellar' the main theme, this melody is epic, one of the best melodies I've ever heard!

Question 11: Do you enjoy traveling and discovering new cities, experiencing the culture and all? Which has been your favorite destination so far and where would you like to visit next?

Very difficult to choose to be honest. But Ibiza is magic, every place is beautiful and the connection with music is really great!

I'd like to visit Amsterdam and the UK, to make my debut there would be really good! But there are more places I'd like to play.

Question 12: What surprises can we expect from you in the near future that you would like to share with us?

Good music! More Trance music, vocal Trance, Melodic Techno and dark-harder Techno :D haha

 

 

Vince Blakk-The Continuum Space Rave Project [Tecnomind Uplifting]

 

"Vince Blakk" is back! 2023 already seems to be mighty promising for this talented artist as he releases a killer new release on "Tecnomind Uplifting". His new single is aptly titled "The Continuum Space Rave Project", a vibrant tune of epic proportions, an ode to the enchanting, miraculous universe we are just a small, insignificant part of! 

 Pumping beats are unleashed with seamless vigor from the mere moment of pressing play. Reversed effects, thumping basslines and uplifting trance synths are all present here, making our adrenaline rush. Mesmerizing melodies follow, playing a game of hide and seek between the intricately action packed atmosphere at hand. Magnificent, intriguing melodies arrive in the break of the tune, invoking the essence of humanity's constant search for answers and thirst for knowledge of what lays out there. All this is fused quite fittingly with a breakbeat attitude before returning the track to its former hyped up nature. Adventurous leads join the dance and the exciting yet perilous journey through the deepest depths of space continues. It may be filled with obstacles, hidden dangers and unpredictable encounters but our everlasting spirit, the love of conquest and the enthralling voyage of discovery of new worlds fuels us furthermore. 

 Seeking the next upbeat, riveting, space oriented track to brighten up your sets and move the masses? Call off the search, you have just found it! Another glorious one for "Vince Blakk".

Released: 3/2/2023

Label: Tecnomind Uplifting    

https://www.beatport.com/release/the-continuum-space-rave-project/3976459 

Drival-Golem [AVA White]

 

The year we left behind was a pretty special one for the world of dance music. Loads of glorious releases saw the light and were worshiped time and time again by the populous on dance floors around the globe. As the year came to a close another gem graced the charts and our hearts alike. That was the last release of the year for Spanish DJ/Producer Jordi Ramio, widely known as "Drival". This versatile artist has dance music coursing through his veins and he proves that fact time and time again through his selected amount of originals productions and remixes on a wide range of esteemed labels such as "Armada Music", "FSOE Fables" and "Universal Nation". His new dance music offering led him to "AVA Recordings" home of renowned artists "Andy Moor" and "Somna". "Golem" is out on "AVA White" beloved sub label of "AVA Recordings" and it is a big one at that! 

 Chugging basslines, tube-like synths and flanged effects are all present here. A distant mystical choir flairs things up while slamming leads take over. Full on energy is ever present here guiding us all towards the big break. The break in the midst of the tune is flooded with an ethereal atmosphere of intriguing melodies, that instill a sense of wonder within us all right before the big blastoff! A fusion of soaring arps and ecstatic uplifting leads is unleashed and the excitement arises within our hearts as the adrenaline courses through our veins! An anthem to fully represent the year that passed. A tune of pure excellence from "Drival" that is guaranteed to get the place jumping when played out loud! Massive!

Released: 16/12/2022

Label: AVA White

https://www.beatport.com/release/golem/3947129

KaNa-Episode 09 [Snow freques]

 

Winter may officially be here, but by no means does it stall the steady blossoming and ultimate fruition of the future works of the many talented artists out there! The latest divine release that has come to my attention comes to us from the land of the rising sun! Japanese DJ/Producer "KaNa" has returned with a fresh E.P dubbed "Snow Freques Episode 09". Her last release was eagerly devoured by the fans, seems this one will take things two steps further!

 "Cosmoclock 21": This is definitely the rowdier sibling of the bunch! Darker synths, stripped back vox and aggressive, semi distorted grungy grooves are all here staking their claim. The break brings forward elements of a clock ticking time away as time appears to always be a force against us, accentuated by lush melodies and playful female vocal fragments that seem to take flight, joining on a slow dance of their very own just as the groove comes sliding in through open doors. Dominated by pounding basslines, riveting leads and grunting synths much like before, taking charge on its never ending race towards the future! Large and in charge! Explosive number for the clubs!

 "Consequence": This one tones things down a tad, being the more tranquil of the siblings. Progressive grooves lay the base of the tune as crystal-like serene melodies shine through like the sun on a winter's day. Buzzing synths add an extra flair and dosage of drama to the mix while our mind wanders off to a long lost forest up high in the mountains while melodies derived from a flute and decorated by crisp vocal segments mesmerize us all, instilling an instant gratification of a newfound inner peace!

KaNa has demonstrated once more why she is the next big thing to emerge from Japan! This E.P contains something for every dance music fan out there!

Released: December 2022

Label: Snow freques   

https://kanaijuin.bandcamp.com/album/episode-09