ICONYC continues riding one of this year’s best hot streaks with a new single from Danny Lloyd this week.
The Italian artist of Sudbeat and Movement Recordings fame is not only making his debut on the highly touted US imprint but it also marks his first new production of 2017. Danny’s smooth grooves have been a favourite of both Hernan Cattaneo and Nick Warren in recent years and his latest entitled ‘Arapaima’ looks set for a similar fate.
As the original mix begins you’re immediately sucked into its rippling foundation, aquatic designs and rhythmic drive. Progressive minded, it slowly moves through a series of hypnotic motifs before warm, atmospheric swells bring bursts of emotion. A short break keeps the energy locked but not before the subtle acid line gets layered with sonic decay, adding further electricity to storyboard. A smooth third act brings even more variance as airy vocals trail over the framework and radiant textures take you home. Another brilliant production from Danny.
The first interpretation of ‘Arapaima’ is provided by Navid Mehr who is also making his first appearance on ICONYC. The Canadian artist continues to one of the most talked about talents in the new landscape of progressive house. In addition to owning releases on Hernan Cattaneo’s Sudbeat Music his volume controlled release schedule makes him one of the most in demand remixers. His fluid grooves and melodious soundscapes are on full display here as he takes ‘Arapaima’ into decidedly more melodic territory and with fabulous results. Warm chord changes flow through the groove from the outset and once the full textural complement arrives you reach harmonic heaven pretty quickly. Everything just feels right, from the effortless, organic percussion to soft chord stabs and gently swirling melodies, it’s got to be one of the feel good records of the year so far. Expect Hernan, Nick and more to be all over this. Excellent remix from Navid.
The release concludes with Mohn (NL) also making his label debut. After closing out 2016 with a release on Gabriel Ananda’s Soulful Techno Records the Dutch artist has enjoyed a fabulous 2017 with standout releases on SOSO and Submarine Vibes. There always seems to be a fluid energy locked in his productions and that’s certainly evident on his ‘Arapaima’ interpretation. A bit more techno inspired compared to the previous two versions which is nice and undeniably Dutch sounding as well. It’s clean design profile and sleek flow are dead giveaways but it’s the vocal work and dubby nature which make it not only a great standalone version but a perfect complement to the release. Expect a broader range of DJs on this and perhaps one of Mohn’s best ever remixes as well. With releases from Tuxedo & Monojoke, Filter Bear and Qbical all in the last three weeks it’s been one hell of a run for ICONYC and this just raises the bar a notch higher. Don’t miss it.
