Artist: DanSonic
Title: Transformations Volume One | Sampler #1
Remixers: Loco-Volver, JU7IAN, F-Act, Aad Mouthaan, KellAr
Label: Artificial Acoustical Ambience
Release Date: 21st June 2017
Tracklist
1. Desert Dunes (JU7IAN’s Eternal Bliss Remix)
2. Desert Dunes (Loco – Volver Remix)
3. Desert Dunes (Transformations Mix)
4. Dreamers (F – Act Remix)
5. Music (Aad Mouthaan Remix)
6. Remembrance (KellAr Remix)
The latest release on DanSonic‘s Artificial Acoustical Ambience Records finds the label showcasing the first installment of its ‘Transformations’ series. Aptly coined, the series will present new interpretations of past material from label boss DanSonic, with the man himself showcasing a new remix as well entitled ‚Transformations Mix’. The first edition of the series invites Aad Mouthaan, JU7IAN, F-Act, Loco-Volver and KellAr to rework 4 gems from the AAAR catalog.
DanSonic had a fruitful 2016 with the release of three brand new singles setting the stage for his ‘Dreamers’ LP which got 2017 off to an amazing start. This incredible stretch was kicked off with the release of ‘Desert Dunes‘ in May. Its deep, soulful sounds were perfect for the impending summer season and now a year later, we see JU7IAN, Loco-Volver and DanSonic himself reinterpreting the piece. First up JU7IAN brings his distinctive deep sound to the track with a ten minute rendition that’s sure to find a place in your heart. Tribal-infused drums, gorgeous vocals and sweeping atmospheres set the tone early before a playful arp and gorgeous break seal its brilliance.
The second interpretation of ‘Desert Dunes‘ is provided by Lukas Gnaegi aka Loco-Volver who is returning to the label for his second appearance. The Swiss artist last appeared on AAAR with a remix of DanSonic‘s ‘Summer Of Love’ which was released in February of 2014. Now making his much anticipated return Loco-Volver puts his own unique spin on ‘Desert Dunes‘. Well known for his driving, energetic sound Lukas has carved out a fluid yet shapely groove which sets a strong presence early. Rolling rhythms, percussive waves and phasing flutes carry the track with ease into the main break. Perfectly executed, the centre-piece shifts the narrative with a filtered bridge setting up a lovely drop that’s sure to light up your dance floor.
The third and final interpretation of ‘Desert Dunes‘ is provided by Artificial Acoustical Ambience boss DanSonic. Beginning the year with his quite successful downtempo ‘Dreamers’ LP the Swiss artist then went on to remix Aad Mouthaan for Art Nouveau Records in April. Keeping the momentum going DanSonic now presents his ‘Transformations’ version of ‘Desert Dunes‘. Going deeper and infinitely musical it sits as a lovely complement to the previous two interpretations. Soulful motifs, organic percussion and textural drifts highlight the first act before a delicate acid line pushes the narrative forward. The second of two breaks proves quite compelling with sizzling modulation and flute phrases coming in waves, leading to a light, airy and oh so gorgeous finale.
The unique interpretation of ‘Dreamers’ is provided by F-Act who is returning to the label for his third appearance. As a veteran of the progressive house underground the Swiss artist has an extensive discography highlighted by appearances on Baroque Records, Bonzai Records and Mistique Music. Now presenting just his second new production of 2017 F-Act delivers a stunning interpretation of ‘Dreamers’. Beginning with punchy beats, rough stabs and a quirky rhythmic core, it’s not long before you get sucked into its unique vibe. Clustered claps and bleepy electronics get complemented with gorgeous synth- and vocal-pads before smooth chord changes lead to one final sonic rush.
A new interpretation of ‘Music’ is provided by Aad Mouthaan who is making his AAAR debut here. Hailing from The Netherlands, Aad has a long history in electronic music dating back to his residency at Rotterdam’s infamous Club Revolution from 2004 till 2008. His unbridled passion for house music in all its forms has led to releases on Jungle Funk, Spinnin’ and offshoot Spinnin’ Deep. Now making his AAAR debut Aad takes ‘Music’ into classic house territory with great results. Anchored by a funked up framework and spacious groove Aad works in the vocal elements and chord stabs with an effortless flair. Spacey sonics add mightily to the first act before the main break delivers a classy build and dynamic drop that’s perfectly dialed for the dance floor.
The release concludes with KellAr, also making his label debut and following a strong release for OLD SQL Recordings to begin the year. Mike Albrecht aka KellAr hails from Switzerland and began his production career in 2015 with a single on Germany’s Jetlag Digital. His classic melodic sound then caught the attention of Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic, who signed him to their Mistique Music imprint with a two track EP in May of 2016. Additional releases on LuPS Records have rounded out a short but tidy discography leading him to AAAR for just his second ever remix. His heartrending interpretation of ‘Remembrance’ proves to be the ultimate conclusion to this expansive collection. It’s clustered melodies and cascading motifs play perfectly over a laid back, breakbeat fueled groove, taking you on an amazing eight minute ride, reflective in tone and a perfect way to cap off the first installment of ‘Transformations’. Highly Recommended.
