Australian, Kieran Krohn’s unique blend of rhythm, melody and an acute understanding of their practical application on the dance floor has seen his Verve production guise much in demand. With a string of releases on Lowbit, Mirabilis and Stereo Paradise in 2012, 2013 started brightly for the antipodean with a release on Intricate Records (with production partner, Insilico) and the launch of his “FutureForm” label set to follow. Verve’s groove-laden “Fusion”, uses rich layers of melodic motifs and intricate rhythmic dynamism to create something really rather impressive. Furthermore it gives a breadth to the track, allowing for an open interpretation on which to base remix work. As such, “Fusion” is accompanied by remixes from two pioneers of the progressive house scene.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dn3IkFj2VtM
Using a “simple but effective” maxim based upon the “worship” of “the ideas of creation”, Swedish quartet, Inkfish have been at the forefront of electronic dance music since the mid-90s. With a successful record label under their auspices, either Mattias Lindblom or Andreas Hermansson undertakes production duties. Having crafted a number one Beatport hit, Inkfish have seen several cross-genre gems hit the top ten charts of breaks, deep and progressive house for some impressive imprints including, Bedrock, Renaissance and Armada. Having remixed Asten’s “Escape from the Deep” for Particles in Autumn 2012, Inkish return to the label with a barnstorming progressive gem of a remix. Verve’s “Fusion” is taken on a brand new melodic adventure with astonishing consequence. An innovative melodic motif now takes centre stage as it rips its way through a strong 4/4 backbone and enough rhythmic sensibilities to keep dance floors delirious. A melancholic string-laden breakdown only serves to enhance the track’s new melodic appeal. This is Inkfish at the peak of their progressive powers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dn3IkFj2VtM#t=2m15s
Danny Bonnici is another name associated with a rich musical heritage in the progressive scene. As one third of the legendary NuBreed project, the Australian trio achieved enormous success with remixes of Way Out West, Trafik, Junkie XL and Tiesto, and a full-length artist album entitled “The Original” which produced the hit “One Day”. Received to considerable critical acclaim, his recent work with fellow Australian, Luke Chable has seen a hugely impressive clutch of releases on Mesmeric, while recent production work with the Shiloh brothers has also featured on the Baroque imprint. Taking on “Fusion”, Danny Bonnici’s musical prowess is instantly recognised with a pounding kick drum playing host to a precision-sharp arpeggio and trademark stuttered and effects-laden lead line. Lulling the listener into a false sense of security, a grooved bass line is then unleashed providing a perfect foil for the melodic echoes found in Verve’s original mix. This is a master class in production craftsmanship.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dn3IkFj2VtM#t=4m27s
Verve is certainly a producer to watch. His recent rise has been impressive, as has his sense of musicality and what makes dance music work. Both remixes here are top notch and give a clear indication why Inkfish and Danny Bonnici have been so respected over the years. Progressive at its finest.
