Kazusa - Coast Along

Kazusa's career as an international melodic progressive producer saw light in 2009 when Alexy "MANGO" Golovanov inducted Kazusa, to his label, Mango Alley. Since then, it has always been a forward path for this Japanese producer as the whole world started to appreciate his works.

One of Kazusa's latest tracks has sought home in Aeron Aether's newly-established label, Arrival Records. Likewise, "Coast Along", the sophomore EP release of the label, caters a wide variety of warm atmospheric pads as well as mind-levitating melodies from three unique versions: the original mix, the Tokyo Bay Cruise Remix, and the Dmitry K & Beeswax Dub Mix.

Sit back and relax as you chill-out to this wonderful release from Arrival Records!

READ MORE - Kazusa - Coast Along

Marc Systematic - Conviction EP

Vlad Markovskyh, with his Marc Systematic guise, sets the record for being the first Russian producer on Deeper Manila! His first double-header release on the label, Conviction EP [DM 013] certainly sets the stage ready for his remarkable techno-injected music!

Pounding its way to DM shores for the first time, Conviction (Original Mix) caters hard-hitting kicks, pumping basslines, and of course, highly-hypnotizing hooks!

On the flipside, Vlad takes a slight change of course as he strips down the energy levels a bit with his minimal-sounding piece, Pandemic (Original Mix).

Marc Systematic’s Conviction EP definitely shows off his unadulterated tech music that can finally be found on Deeper Manila!

OUT NOW AS BEATPORT-EXCLUSIVE!

•Deeper Manila•

Marc Systematic - Conviction (Original mix) by Deeper Manila

READ MORE - Marc Systematic - Conviction EP

Vinyl Dharma - Head For the Hills

Texas-based indie band, Vinyl Dharma goes EDM for the second time on Cromarti Records. This time around, we get to hear remixes from top-notched artists, Bas van Essen, PROFF, Dave Cortex, and Phunktastike.

First off, a remix from Dutch producer, Bas van Essen. This remix, named as "Head For The Hills (Bas van Essen Dub)", caters to listeners who enjoy deep-drifting basslines and uplifting chords. If you're juggling the names Kaskade, Deadmau5, and Adam K. & Soha in your head, then you are one keen listener.

When you see the letters P.R.O.F.F. on the release cover, you already, more or less, have an idea that the release is something worth the purchase. Likewise, Vadim "PROFF" Ershov's remix is the soundtrack for aficionados inclined towards the sunny-side up style of progressive house music.

Well, the next name isn't really new on the block. American producer Dave Cortex also takes remix duties for "Head For the Hills". We've last spotted him on Soundscapes with his remix on Something Good's "La Biankini" as well as Incognet's "Avesta"-- both from Nellie Recordings. Dave's remix signals the departure from the release's uplifting, melodic approach thanks to his collection of crunchy synths and stubby basslines. Having said those, I believe this is the version that should be played more often in clubs.

Hailing from Cantabria, Jose Mariano Piriz, with the guise, Phunktastike, brings the release to a close with his tech-inclined piece. Atmospheric yet steady, this is the Phunktastike Remix.

This release made me look forward to the future releases on Cromarti Records. After all, their quality tunes are really worth the listen.

READ MORE - Vinyl Dharma - Head For the Hills

Stan Chetverikov - Bangladesh / Home

Stan Chetverikov pins the Russian flag on progressive house soil once again with his second EP release on Nellie Recordings, “Bangladesh / Home”. This time around, Stan solidifies his music arsenal with hard-hitting smashers and grounding grinders as heard in his two sizzling tracks!

Alpha track "Bangladesh" kicks off NELLIE051 with cool and stunning sounds—definitely sends the rush through your veins!

Moreover, we still get a feel of Stan’s hallmark nocturnal vibes with a twist of stubby electrifying basslines with his second track, "Home".

Pumping it hard for Nellie Recordings, we present Stan Chetverikov’s "Bangladesh / Home" EP.

READ MORE - Stan Chetverikov - Bangladesh / Home

Interview with VADIM SOLOVIEV [2010]

VADIM SOLOVIEV is considered as one of the Russian pioneers of progressive music dating back in 1998. With his project, "Sound Fiction", Vadim quickly established himself as one of very first Russian producers who have set foot onto the global circuit. Aside from which, he was once part of the infamous homegrown label, "Atmosphere", headed by Volodya Fonar.

As seen in his works on labels like Armada Music, Intuition Recordings, Captured Music, Anjunadeep, and Lost Language, Vadim Soloviev is simply one of the few who can actually create works that define the best of both worlds-- progressive trance and progressive house music.

Hey there! How are you doing?

Heya! All good, busy days here and its really great!

In your opinion, what sets you unique compared to the other progressive music producers out there?

Well, first of all I`m always in search of something new in my sound and not getting stuckwith the same presets for ages you know, hehe. As for the latest years i`m trying to balance on that edge between progressive house and progressive trance like many of us do this days I think. Actually I believe that really good producer should always pick the best sides from different genres and not to be limited with his favourite one. Otherwise we`ll have what we have now – thousands of equal tracks on the beatport and lots of absolutely useless stuff. Anyway, keeping all this in mind i`m still trying to bring some special recognized “vadim soloviev” things from track to track.

Can you tell us how you were able to come up with your signature sound that we hear today?

As I said – its pretty strange thing cos everything influences my musical taste from year to year, but there are also some fundamental influences that made it as it is now. Of course it’s the pioneers of EDM like BT, Chicane or even Robert Miles for example. There are lots of them!

What do you think is your greatest achievement so far as a producer/ DJ?

As for producer it’s a couple of remixes that I really love more than any other tracks ofmine, like remix for David West`s “True Love”, Tilt`s “Angry Skies” or Bart Claessen`s “First Light”. For sure one of the biggest things happened to my productions is reaching 1^st place at the beatport or audiojelly like happened with “Stay with Me” recorded with Marcie or with a single “Alive” of my side project Sound Fiction. But all this happened so long time ago, no one already remembers it now hehe. As for the DJ - my biggest achievement was invitation from Billboard Russia to play at MIDEM in Cannes for 3000 people - music industry professionals. Really weird experience I should say, cos they are not regular clubbers you know, they were evaluating the show and everything was good. Really nice crowd :)

Your latest remix with Vladimir “Proff” Ershov on Joonas Hahmo’s “Pizzi” is out now on Hahmo Recordings, right? Could you share to us some insights on how you guys were able to produce such a fine piece of work?

It’s a funny story in fact. I was not supposed to remix this tune. But that day I came to Proff`s studio with my laptop and he forgot his Cubase key at home. The deadline was in 12 hours I guess and he also had a gig in the nearest club that night. So we just opened my Logic and did this remix together tweaking it after the gig already. We actually almost had a chance to test it on the dancefloor hehe.

What are your top three tracks as of now?

Chris Reece - Salvation (Jerome Isma-Ae And Daniel Portman Ibiza Late Dub)

Harryson - Stay Awake

And my new track that has a working title “Tempo”

If you had a chance to create your own event, how would it be?

I was in Amsterdam last autumn at the Ocean Diva boat on the Intuition / Garuda /Coldharbour party, and I really liked this atmosphere. I mean the boat and the view of thebay etc. So it would be definitely something like this. I really like all this pool / beach parties mood. And its pretty hard to pick a line up for this. There would definitely be me and Proff haha.

Aside from Russia, where else do you think would be a perfect breeding ground for your music?

To be honest, everywhere except Russia

Which came first, the chicken or the egg?

Bacterium

What’s next for Vadim Soloviev?

We are now working with Proff on our own single, but I think it will be different from“Pizzi” Remix. I`m also working on a couple of tracks that should be more clubby and trancey than I usually do. Besides, there is upcoming release from me of a summer vocal track on Intuition Deep. Moreover i`m now starting a remix for a very well known UK producer and DJ, but i`m not sure i`m allowed to tell his name yet :) As for the DJ side of me, i`m still planning to launch a podcast show, but as you may know it becomes more difficult from day to day because of all this legal issues. I`m also playing in different venues in the next months, so we`ll definitely see some of your readers on the dancefloors soon!

I, Miguel Libre, would like to thank you for your time in making this interview possible! Good luck on your career, and may you have an awesome year!

Thanks for your interest and all the best to you, Miguel, and to all your readers!

•••

Check out the review on Vadim Soloviev's latest work with PROFF: "Pizzi" by Joonas Hahmo

The Official Website of Vadim Soloviev

Vadim Soloviev on Beatport.com

READ MORE - Interview with VADIM SOLOVIEV [2010]

Joonas Hahmo - Pizzi / Section 1

Joonas Hahmo takes things to a higher level as he lists Vladimir "PROFF" Ershov and Vadim Soloviev on the Hahmo Recordings roster. PROFF and Vadim are simply two of the biggest names in the progressive scene. They are not only well-renowned artists in Russia but also from all corners of the globe!

Accompanying Hahmo's sophomore release, "Pizzi / Section 1" , the two heavyweights collaborate to produce a remix on the first track of the EP. Watch Joonas Hahmo, PROFF, and Vadim Soloviev spice up music matters on Hahmo Recordings with their unfalteringly-stunning productions!

Pizzi (Original Mix)

Its main melody makes it one of the most definitive tracks Joonas Hahmo has ever created! Take in a couple of pounding basslines, a very infectious melody, and of course, Hahmo's touch of gold, the result-- a four-by-four glistening jewel, Pizzi! Like his past productions, this is certified climax material!

Pizzi (PROFF & Vadim Soloviev Remix)

This track falls onto the hands of PROFF and Vadim for remix duties. Quite surprising as always, these guys rocked it once again. Taking on a smoother path, this remix caters a wide variety of sound from PROFF and Vadim. We get to hear PROFF's solid basslines and starlit keys combined with Vadim Soloviev's trademark synths and progressive trance feel. Definitely a great alternative to the original!

Section 1 (Original Mix)

Expect something different from the third track, Section 1! The track starts-off with ice-crisp atmosphere pads chilling in and out, while a sudden entrance of pounding kicks takes place. Joonas tops off the goodness with a levitating climax, Hahmo-style! With those having said, Section 1 flawlessly gives the release a proper close!

There is no turning back now for Joonas Hahmo! Online record stores listing his first release as a must-hear progressive track, as well as Markus Schulz and Above & Beyond supporting it! His follow-up release, "Pizzi / Section 1" simply proves that Hahmo would not stop breaking boundaries.

Hahmo Recordings • PROFF • Vadim Soloviev

READ MORE - Joonas Hahmo - Pizzi / Section 1

D' Flower feat. Vlada - Deep in Love

We drift deeper once again into the sound, now to a familiar territory-- a territory where jazz music blends perfectly with four-by-four music. This time around, we take a look at one of the works of Ivan Boyarkin, a remarkable Russian producer who has dedicated himself to the creation of soothing and soulful sounds of saxophone-injected melodies. It is of much pleasure that we present to you his 2009 D' Flower release, "Deep in Love" featuring Vlada on vocals.

This very Romantic and suave release spawned three tracks: the original mix, the Unica Lovin' Deep Remix, and the Instrumental Mix.

Take time to choose the version that perfectly fits yourself. At least one of the three is the soundtrack of your inner self-- all you have to do is listen . . .

D' Flower

READ MORE - D' Flower feat. Vlada - Deep in Love

Electrobios, The Flyers & Mike Sonar - Deep In The Heart EP

Stepping-in for the golden release of Nellie Recordings, Electrobios joins forces with the high-achieving trio, The Flyers & Mike Sonar to release “Deep in the Heart”.

The original work by the four-man team brings electrifying basslines, hammering kicks, and head-nodding grooves—you might just catch yourself unconsciously tapping your fingers and feet with the beat!

For the second track, American producer, Derek Howell molds Deep in the Heart into a techno piece with his deep and hypnotizing sound. Last, but definitely not the least, Alexander Andreev, publicly known as Alandanat, remixes Deep in the Heart in such a way it becomes a very downtownesque soundtrack. Moreover, Alandanat breaks four-by-four music standards with his climactic breakbeats.

Electrobios, The Flyers & Mike Sonar truly deserves a heartwarming welcome to Nellie Recordings as the label celebrates its fiftieth release!

READ MORE - Electrobios, The Flyers & Mike Sonar - Deep In The Heart EP

Mr. T - Sunset Sax

This man has witnessed the fabrication of the underground scene of Manila in the past decade, and played a vital part in the growth of EDM in the country. We are, of course, talking about the one and only Tony Pavia! This year, 2010, finally marks his entrance to Deeper Manila as Mr. T with his sassy single, “Sunset Sax”!

Sunset Sax starts off with a gentle lullaby as transforms into a deep and groovy piece. Let it please your ears a little longer and after that, Mr. T surprises his listeners with an infectious and flavorful saxophone hook.

Join Deeper Manila as they celebrate another step in the country’s propagation of EDM with Mr. Tony Pavia!

Mr. T - Sunset Sax (Mr. T Bass Edit) by Deeper Manila

Deeper Manila • Mr. T

READ MORE - Mr. T - Sunset Sax

Simon Grey & Dave Storm ft. Nathalie Dorra- Signs

A couple of weeks ago, we were able to listen to the "Clazz EP"-- a special compilation made by Estonian producer, Ricky Inch-- and was released under Ceremony Records. This time around, we take a look at a fresh vocal release from the label: "Simon Grey & Dave Storm ft. Nathalie Dorra - Signs", with remixes from Deep Josh, Pete Gust & Lefthander, and Ricky Inch.

Signs (Original Mix)

German producer Simon Grey and label A&R manager Dave Storm kicks off a suave and jazzy track, "Signs" with Nathalie Dorra as vocalist. If you are a person who enjoys listening to funky anthems, mellow melodies, jazzy basslines, and soulful vocals, then you'll do good with this release!

Signs (Deep Josh Dub Mix)

Deep Josh also takes remix duties for "Signs" and here we have it, a warmer rendition of the track. The bustling percussions also are something to look forward to in this remix! 

Signs (Pete Gust & Lefthander Remix)

Pete Gust & Lefthander worked together to produce a downbeat and lounge version of the original. The Pete Gust & Lefthander remix caters emotionally-drawn piano melodies and a very suave guitar solo-- pretty impressive.

Signs (Ricky Inch Remix)

As always, Ricky Inch never fails to amaze his listeners with his juicy and bouncy jazz-infused sound! This remix is the opposite of the former remix because we get to hear upbeat and groovy basslines on this one. Aside from that, the filtered chords, guitar samples, and piano breakdowns bring the whole piece to perfection.

Amazing release right here. . .

Ceremony Records • Simon Grey • Dave Storm • Deep Josh • Pete Gust • Lefthander • Ricky Inch

READ MORE - Simon Grey & Dave Storm ft. Nathalie Dorra- Signs

Kenneth Thomas- Gunnin (Shingo Nakamura Remix)

Japanese progressive house icon, Shingo Nakamura took remix duties for Morphosis Records, and comes up with rather another enthralling remix, this time on Kenneth Thomas' "Gunnin".

Also in the release, we've heard the original mix by Thomas and remixes from Hungarian-based project, East Cafe, as well as Canadian producer, Davin AFK.

The Shingo Nakamura Remix definitely is the cream of the crop in this release. Like what I always say in my reviews on works of Nakamura, his hallmark emotive piano melodies always find its place in the progressive house scene.

READ MORE - Kenneth Thomas- Gunnin (Shingo Nakamura Remix)

EDU - Purple Rose / Sweet Amber

Take a look at EDU’s latest journal entry, “Purple Rose / Sweet Amber” -- a page filled with stories of both melancholy and elation.

Purple Rose is a blue-blooded piece that narrates the tales of a bleak day. Listen carefully; this track has lots of desolations to tell. Contrasting the former, Sweet Amber delivers positive aura of a sunny day with its heartfelt melodies.

Eldar Abdulajev, whom we know as EDU, quickly establishes himself as an indispensable member of Nellie Recordings with his third EP, “Purple Rose / Sweet Amber”.

READ MORE - EDU - Purple Rose / Sweet Amber

Jozhy K & Angel - Daylight EP

Dezire Records celebrates its third release with a lovable and emotional vocal track from Ukranian artists, Jozhy K & Angel. Jozhy K is responsible for Dezire's debut release, "Love Story", but he is back for more!

Together with the original and instrumental mixes, remixes from Andre Frauenstein, The Wokadoa, and Dezza are also included. Sit back, and enjoy Dezire Records' newest release, "Daylight", to be released May 14, 2010!

Daylight (Original Mix)

Delivering melodies somewhat similar to the likes of Mango and Thomas Schwartz, while topped off with delightful emotive piano keys akin to Shingo Nakamura's, Daylight (Original Mix) certainly carries the hallmark Dezire Records euphoria! Oh, and the vocals-- just perfect!

Daylight (Instrumental Mix)

If you just would like to enjoy the melodies minus the vocals of the track, then this is for you!

Daylight (Andre Frauenstein Remix)

Young producer based in Johannesburg, South Africa, AF, delivers an alternative remix to Daylight with a more solid structure and a more upbeat delivery.

Daylight (The Wokadoa Remix)

Latvian good buddies, Viktor Fox and Kaspar Kochker make up The Wokadoa, and they turn Daylight into an electrifying piece with thick and grinding basslines! Definitely something different for Dezire Records, Daylight (The Wokadoa Remix) really gives that cutting-edge effect on the label.

Daylight (Dezza Remix)

A release on Dezire Records is not complete without a remix from the boss himself! Derek Silvester, or Dezza, makes a more uplifting version of the track, and like the original, the Dezza Remix really captures the essence of the label.

Third release on the label made possible by Jozhy K & Angel! As more tracks get released, the more melodic they become! Catch this release May 14, 2010 via Dezire Records!

READ MORE - Jozhy K & Angel - Daylight EP

Marcus Almen - Flip Switch EP

Timo Juuti and Sami Saari, the guys behind Wicked Recordings, have given a new definition of “wicked” in the electronic dance music scene with their collection of catchy, dark, and tech-drenched house records!

Joining in for Wicked’s 10^th release, Swedish producer, Marcus Almen shows off his new killer track, “Flip Switch” alongside remixes from two veterans of the genre, Dezza (Derek Silvester) and of course, Timo Juuti.

Flip Switch (Original Mix)

As featured on the Wicked Recordings podcast 026, Flip Switch (Original Mix) provides a subtle tech-drenched build-up that leads to a highly-intoxicating main riff. Aside from that, its simple structure gives ample space for additional components to be added when remixed— simply wicked!

Flip Switch (Dezza Remix)

We know Derek Silvester as half of the duo managing Dezire Records, but this time, he takes remix duties for Wicked! We get to hear more emphasis on the main riff from the original while being joined by Dezza’s creamy synths. The Dezza remix is definitely for fans that enjoy melodic prog house music with that pinch of nasty tech house vibe!

Flip Switch (Timo Juuti Remix)

Wicked Recordings head honcho, Timo Juuti shows how the guys on the label do it with their eyes closed. Timo took Flip Switch to the deeper territory of the Wicked lair as he unleashes an adrenaline-pumping masterpiece clad in hypnotizing samples— truly portrays what the label is all about!

There you have it, Wicked Recordings’ 10^th release— a package of electronic viciousness— and more to come. . .

Wicked Recordings • Marcus Almen • Dezza • Timo Juuti

READ MORE - Marcus Almen - Flip Switch EP

Jolo Eidos- Hidden Emotions / Little Things EP

Jolo Eidos, is a moniker of two young aspiring Dutch producers, Hoz and Zhiar, and are currently labeled as exclusive artists on the Key Recordings crew.

Having the privilege of living fifteen-minutes away from each other, the guys behind Jolo Eidoshave only been producing music for less than a year; however this is not a valid excuse for them not to be able to create stunning gems. As the third on the label, Hidden Emotions / Little Things EP is definitely a dazzling release.

Brought to life by the delicate piano imprint of Key Recordings, Hidden Emotions is a moonlit wonder. Aside from that, with its composition, the track is highly-emotive, steady, and delightful. Taking another step for the release, Little Things delivers polished basslines, gliding melodies, and of course, that Key-only piano vibe.

With those being said, I believe Hidden Emotions and Little Things truly deserve the Key Recordings stamp of approval on them.

Watch out for the official release of Hidden Emotions / Little Things EP on May 7, 2010 via Key Recordings!

•••

Key Recordings

READ MORE - Jolo Eidos- Hidden Emotions / Little Things EP

Something Good- Solence / 1:28 AM / Cielo

Otto Yliperttula and Karolus Viitala were last spotted on Nellie Recordings with their euphoria-drenched release, “La Biankini”. Taking their Nellie releases to a higher place, Team SG hands over heavenly delights to Nellie Recordings with this three-track EP!

Solence is the perfect set opener anyone can ever ask for! With its soulful and enlightening saxophone melodies and with the help of the rejuvenating piano samples, Solence brings heaven just right next door!

Something Good follows up that feel-good vibe with their vanilla-bleached piece, 1:28 AM. Brought together by crisp synth-work and sedative atmosphere, this track effortlessly brings the good vibes together.

The ever-glorious and the very captivating Cielo completes the experience! Bringing the EP to a close, Cielo, and its gracious piano climax would simply leave you wanting more.

From Helsinki with solace, Something Good continues to live up to their name as heard in this enchanting release!

Selected Feedback:


"Cielo is a big feel good track!"
- Nick Warren (Way Out West)

"Very uplifting stuff !! Really nice vibe, I think Solence is my fav"
- Jody Wisternoff (Way Out West)

"Great EP! Congratulations"
- Ridney (Defected)

"Nice release. Solence and 1.28 AM for me!"
- Claes Rosen (Witty Tunes, Unreleased Digital, Nellie)

"01:28 AM does it for me! Very sweet!"
- Marcus Schossow (Tone Diary)

"Cielo and 1:28 AM for me! Cheers"
- PROFF (Anjunadeep)

"Really enjoying these tracks. Great old school feel to them with a contemporary vibe."
- Matt Rowan (Baroque, Proton)

"Really high energy release, love 1:28AM in particular, great track!"
- Luke Porter (microCastle)

"1:28am is the pick for me. Nice bassline!"
- Ad Brown (Anjunadeep, Armada)

"Love 1:28 AM! Great tune. Cielo is really nice as well. Can definitely use these!"
- Sonic Union (Lowbit, Proton)

"1:28 AM is a nice piece. Good energy."
- Derek Howell (microCastle)

"Liking this melody in 1:28 AM. Very feel-good tune, I want to just cruise with the windows down when hearing this."
- Darin Epsilon (Inkfish, microCastle)

"Both Cielo and Solence supported on Finnish Radio 1 & Radio NRJ Finland. Great release, 10/10."
- Juska Wendland (Finnish Radio 1, Radio NRJ Finland)

"Solence = Ibiza Anthem 2010! Definitely in my playlist"
- Phill Da Cunha (FG DJ Radio Belgium)

"Full support from me! Brilliant package overall!"
- Heikki L (Cr2, Armada)

READ MORE - Something Good- Solence / 1:28 AM / Cielo