The latest release on Balkan Connection finds the label revisiting Vlada D’Shake’s excellent ‘Pleks’ EP.
Released in November of 2015 the two track EP earned support industry wide and reached a remarkable Top 10 spot in Beatport’s Progressive House chart. Now we see Balkan Connection inviting Oscar Vazquez, Praveen Achary and Tuxedo & I-REC to reinterpret the tracks for 2016.
Leading the release off Oscar Vazquez takes ‘Pleks’ into more techno inspired territory. The Spanish artist uses the vocal elements to great effect while a dark dubby groove powers the foundation. Rolling rhythms and clanky hits make for a spiralling cadence, ultimately leading the track into a cavernous break. Quite sinister, it’s builds dramatic tension as the hypnotic rhythms continue to gnaw away at your senses. An understated build reveals the groove before riding percs and fluid designs take you through an exhilarating finale. Great remix from Oscar.
Next up Praveen Achary makes his Balkan Connection debut and takes ‘Public Secret’ into deep, tripped out and melodious territory. The Juicebox Music label boss has been quiet thus far in 2016 with this being his first new production. Praveen always brings something unique and special to each project and he’s definitely worked some magic here. Anchored by a meaty and monumentally powerful groove the track flows with an atmospheric flair before a short break reveals a cross cultural motif. As the groove drops back in the narrative continues to evolve as intricate designs light up the backdrop. The main break shines with a more prominent musical theme, playing off the vocals nicely before a quick drop initiates a heady third act ultimately sealing the tracks brilliance. Amazing remix from Praveen and hopefully we see something new from him sooner rather than later.
Closing the release is Tuxedo and I-REC who also turn in an exceptional interpretation of ‘Public Secret’. The Electronic Tree label boss and fellow countryman take a funkier approach with some amazing emotional moments. It’s all about the groove here, as undulating slabs of bass roll off each other for the ultimate dance floor appeal. As the vocal elements trail through the framework indistinct melodies and wispy atmospherics converge and lead the track into the break. The distinctive ‘there’s no escape’ sample plays through the break and transitions the piece with ease into a stripped back section, before the bassline drops for what’s sure to be a big moment on the floor. Beautiful remix from Tuxedo and I-REC which is right on par with Praveen’s for my favourite on the release. Great remix EP from Balkan Connection. Don’t miss it.
