- When Rush Hour was voted the #2 label of 2011 the label's blend of obscure re-issues and forward-thinking 12-inches seemed to impress the RA staff. How did the Dutch label follow it up in 2012? Well... more of the same. There's been dance music archaeology in the form of Elbee Band's almost forgotten '80's NY house, but also exciting new electronic offerings from the likes of Braiden, Actress and San Proper.
The label's latest release by Recloose continues their unreasonably long run of good form. First up is Andrés' mix of "Electric Sunshine." Featuring a familiar Salsoul-style disco break, the record's base is not unlike countless other house tracks. However, perfectly thought out melodic flourishes make this remarkable. The sunny interplay between bass and keys contain the same magic present in Andrés' "New For U," a record that's been almost inescapable in 2012 for all the right reasons.
Next is "Chamois." It's a track that certainly works, with filtered disco samples and arpreggiated synth lines decorating a sturdy house beat, although it perhaps lacks the unexpected twists that make Recloose's very best work shine. The Oliverwho Factory's take on "Magic" rounds off the package. Combining heads down club music with emotionally drenched vocals, it's a formula that can very easily sound overwrought if done badly. Here the crunchy, dirt-beneath-the-nails sound of the track gives the record a proper atmosphere. The composite elements of The Oliverwho Factory's work may be rooted in lo-fi '80s house, but here there's an uncontrived feel that gives this record a beautifully raw and notably original vibe.
Tracklist A1 Electric Sunshine (Andres Remix)
A2 Chamois
B Magic (Oliverwho Factory Remix)