- Ruthless Recordings is the new breakbeat offshoot label for respected progressive label Intrinsic Records who have been releasing tunes since 1999 from artists like Christian Cambas, the Transducers and Amalgam to name a few and have seen their releases included on compilations like A Clubbers Guide To Trance mixed by ATB. The first release on Ruthless comes courtesy of Norwegian newcomer Suncast and features a remix by Thrust Recordings' head honcho, Lee Coombs.
Side A. Original mix
Kicking off with a deep breakbeat and loads of intercom/CB radio style vocals, Suncast gives off a dark and sinister vibe only to be emphasised by deep bass tones during the intro. After a quick breakdown, a bigger bassline/melody takes front stage and is accompanied by a plethora of techy stabs and electro goodness and makes itself at home in breakbeat with a series of drum fills placed at proper intervals. The most interesting part comes during the main breakdown where Boom Jinx introduces a piano melody which sounds like Robert Miles finding his feet in breakbeat and is accentuated with classic electro hooks and effects.
Side B. Lee Coombs Remix
Known for his tribal takes on electro infused breaks, Lee Coombs is well into his element for this remix. Kicking off with a percussive electro break, the tune eases into a breakdown in which the bassline/melody from the original gets a solo feature. Lee Coombs brings in his trademark drums incorporating smooth rim shots and electro handclaps. During the switch, the remix leans into an old skool style monotonic bassline with classic electro arpeggios laid on top - highly influenced by Cybotron's Clear. My personal pick of the two.