- Naming an EP The Deal can leave you a bit exposed. On his latest, Southampton native Tom Budden provides us with a three track affair which by no means is the "real deal," but is a solid effort nonetheless. The 20th release on his Alive label is indicative of its title, delivered with a swagger and attitude which mirrors the producer's rising reputation for reliably warm tech house.
The original kicks things off with an Ibizan terrace vibe. Brimming with keys and with just enough kick to satisfy even the most bass-hungry tech house fan, its old school, filtered sound is sure to earn repeated spins from contemporary house purveyors such as Joris Voorn and Nick Curly this summer.
The first of the remixes arrives courtesy of Toronto native Daniel Dubb who provides a far more percussive take on the original. Dubb's another man causing a bit of a stir, with his bootleg of Nina Simone's "Sinnerman" finding its way into a number of high profile DJ sets recently. His deep take on the original is more interesting than outstanding however, and disappointingly lacks the intensity and feel good vibe of the original.
With releases on German imprints such as Upon.You and Souvenir, Onno is another name seemingly destined to join the ranks of emerging Amsterdam-based producers. He lends his two cents by manipulating the original's vocals to fine effect via an onslaught of delay effects, providing a dance floor-tailored effort that'll appease those seeking something similar in style to the original. A worthy effort all round, and Budden's finest release since 2009's "The Dance."
Tracklist 01. The Deal
02. The Deal (Onno remix)
03. The Deal (Daniel Dubb remix)