Matias Vila & Nicolas Ruiz – Diferente (Classound Recordings)

Luis Bondio’s Classound Recordings begins the new year with a fresh collaboration from Matias Vila & Nicolas Ruiz.

The Argentinean duo owns a collective discography with appearances on a long line of cutting edge imprints with Soundteller Records, Sound Avenue and Dopamine Music being the most notable. Now making their debut on Classound Recordings the duo present their first ever collaboration entitled ‘Diferente’ alongside remixes from Michael A and Robert R. Hardy.

From deep and mysterious beginnings the original mix is a fantastic nine minute journey which ultimately defines what great progressive house is. It’s three plus minute intro is filled with soulful guitars and a wealth of cutting edge effects, a true sonic delight for design aficionados and it more than sets an amazing atmosphere for what’s to come. Anchored by deep and well carved slabs of bass the framework chugs along as waves of tribal infused drums push the groove forward. For all of its dark appeal the main break is quite sombre and moderately melancholic. It’s a unique shift and the transition into the third act super smooth, ultimately setting up a myriad of sonic delights to the close out the piece. Definitely a career defining track for both Matias and Nicolas.

With an original so full of amazing parts Classound has delivered two incredible remixers in Michael A and Robert R. Hardy who bring their own unique and inspired interpretations. First up Genesis Music boss Michael A brings his perfectly contoured grooves and clean production chops to the track in a big way. It’s more direct for the dance floor and the psychedelic feel of the original is tighter and more refined. The main break, while short delivers a big moment with a perfect build and amazing percussive drop. Likely one of Michael’s best ever remixes and with an amazing original like that it’s not a surprise.

The release concludes with Robert R. Hardy making his label debut following an excellent start to the year with an EP on Balkan Connection and remix for Northern Lights Music. Some of Robert’s deeper cuts definitely have a trippy psychedelic tinge to them so I was really curious to hear what he would do with this. The foundation is smooth and groovy as you’d expect from the Hungarian and he’s used the guitar elements really nicely, making for a dubbed down version that still exudes the soulful qualities of the original. Brilliant remix from Robert and an excellent release from Classound to begin the new year. Highly Recommended.