Mixes

Shimma | Heartache |Original Mix|

I cannot think of a more fitting house music tribute to the late Nick Ashford than this track, which samples one of my favorite songs from Ashford & Simpson, “Found A Cure,” released in 1979. The brainchild of house music legend John Julius Knight, this track’s best attribute is that it largely relies on sampling and reinterpreting bits of the original song to create a soulful result guaranteed to make you want to dance. Furthermore, it reminds us of the singing power of Valerie Simpson. It’s a track that reminds me (and should remind others) of the importance of simplicity, that you don’t have to tack on lots of bells and whistles in order to create a track with your stamp on it. (Sept. 30, 2011)

Fanatix & Assurance | I Trust You (Psalms 143) |Fanatix Remixes|

Neil Pierce and Aaron Ross are back in a big way. After spending the past couple of years doing their own thing, and achieving some hits (as well as some misses), it’s nice to see these guys teaming up to produce a great gospel house track that would make some of our veteran gospel house producers proud. Aside from being well produced, and clearly starting with a quality product from Assurance (both direct results of the involvement of DJ Spen and his vast collective), Fanatix has perhaps given us a hint of what areas they may mine for future collaborations. To be sure, this is not their first foray into this genre (I think their best track by far was their remix of “Grateful” by Dennis Ferrer and Kenny Bobien), but my view is that this is their strongest release in long time. (Sept. 30, 2011)

THROWBACK REVIEW: Vincent Montana Jr. & The Philly Sound Orchestra f. William Howard | That's What Love Does |Louis Benedetti's Club Vox|

When old and new come together to make beautiful music, there is nothing sweeter. That comes to mind when you think of the work Joey Negro has done with the Sunshine Band or Masters at Work teaming up with Tito Puente, among others. I’d like to suggest that we add the collaboration of Louis Benedetti, Vincent Montana Jr. and the Philly Sound Orchestra on the track “That’s What Love Does” to that list. Anyone with a pulse already knows that Benedetti has long been a class act – a man who taught himself how to play keys, and demonstrates great skill and confidence on his productions. But when he teamed up with these guys to produce this 2005 gem, all parties involved took things to an entirely new level. The result is production that’s a thick (and sweet) as molasses, with a sound that attempted (successfully, in my view) to update that lovely Philly soul sound. As you listen to this track, you can tell that actual people, not computers, were involved in the production. The strings are real, as are the vibes, and virtually everything else. Hell, even the string section recorded in Philadelphia, definitely giving this even more of that Philly sound cred. You can give a listen to this track on my Sept. 30, 2011, mix, and I urge you to do so. You’ll learn something. (Sept. 30, 2011)

Elements Of Life f. Lisa Fischer | Love Will Know |Deepah Ones Mixes|

Some people might not get what Karizma does at times, but if you do, then you’ll definitely appreciate his set of remixes of this track from last year. You’ll recall that I tend to dismiss new remix releases because they’re often dreck, but I have and always will give Karizma the benefit of the doubt because of his history of completely reinterpreting a track and putting what can only be his stamp on things. That is exactly what he’s done here, where he creates his own sound, but at the same time has the good sense to highlight what is the best part of this song – Miss Lisa Fischer’s voice. Karizma’s remixes are part of a larger package of remixes that includes tracks reinterpreted by Karizma pal and fellow Basement Boy DJ Spen. Spen’s tracks are good, but Karizma’s down-and-dirty remixes are what really shines. (Sept. 13, 2011)

Elz & Elise | Soul Power |MKTL Master Kev & Tony Loretto Dubstrumental|

As a rule, I tend to get suspicious of any track with a Part 2 after it, or when the label releases an entirely new set of remixes some months or years after the original release. The reason: it’s often little more than an excuse to make more money rather than based on a desire to provide quality reinterpretations of previously released tracks. I offer this preface now because in this particular set of releases, my viewpoint is only partially vindicated. This particular set of releases has a few interesting bits on it, including a pretty good remix from Will “Reelsoul” Rodriguez. But the highlight is the MKTL Master Kev & Tony Loretto Dubstrumental, which has this funky, dirty beat and the power of a speeding locomotive. You listen to this track and you can’t help but move, and wonder, what is this? My recollection is that Master Kev and Tony Loretto’s sound is rarely this funky; it’s good, but not as raw as this track. Their other versions of this track are OK, but it’s the dubstrumental that really sings – despite the absence of vocals. (Sept. 13, 2011)

Groove Addix f. Annette Taylor | Burned Out |Jovonn Chase Mixes|

Oh, sweet Jesus! I will tell you right now, this track is not for everyone. If you’re not familiar with Jovonn’s work, then I am not sure you’re ready for this track as your introduction. It’s dirty, raw, one of those gems that if you get it, you can take pride in the fact that you’ve cracked the code and, well, are smarter than everyone else around you. Deep, dubby, and bolstered by the delightful Miss Annette Taylor’s vocals, this is a serious song. This is a song that has to be played  later in a DJ set, late at night, the type of track that, despite its simplicity in many respects, is really, really complex…the one you’ll be wondering the name of as you can’t help but move. A recommended companion to this one is a track Jovonn did not that long ago: Jovonn f. Koffee The Story Teller, “Kitty Kat,” an equally deep, raw and an equally rough track. (Sept. 13, 2011)

Matthew Bandy f. Josh Milan | Wish |Frankie Feliciano Ricanstruction Vocal Mix|

What a difference another track makes when you’re talking about Josh Milan. If you recall, several weeks ago I blasted the latest effort from Kenny Dope and Josh Milan as a not-so-good effort from a pair of gentlemen whose career is filled more with direct hits than misses. Well, now Josh has made up for it with this delightful collaboration with Matthew Bandy, whom, I have to say, has been on fire the past year. The track in general is really good, but it’s this remix from Frankie Feliciano, whom I may start calling the Gene Hackman of house music (like Hackman is with movies, Feliciano is good with every remix). Layered, catchy and basically really good, the Feliciano remix offers a great combination of a great autumn song. In this case, the fact that it’s No. 3 on Traxsource’s singles chart very much reflects that the people (for once) know what they’re talking about. (Sept. 13, 2011)

Kings Of Tomorrow f. April | I Need To Love Me |Sandy Rivera Club Mix|

This is one of those songs that I thought for sure I wouldn’t like it, and yet I have to say it’s one of the best ones to come out this summer. Good beat, great lyrics, it’s a song that feels a lot more accessible than a lot of Sandy Rivera’s work, and while it’s certainly the kind of track that you’d expect to get significant club play, its depth and layering mean it has broad appeal both in the more pedestrian club scene (read: Defected) as well as in deeper scenes (read: Soulful-Selections). To be sure, there are elements of this that remind me a lot of Ananda Project’s “Kiss Kiss Kiss,” but at the same time it harkens back to some of Rivera’s earlier work, and that’s a good thing. Sure, it’s a rather poppy type track, but there’s enough meat on this bone to appeal to deep househeads, too. (Sept. 13, 2011)

Aid To Soulless f. Desla | One Night |Abicah Soul Vocal Mix|

Nothing against Aid To The Soulless or to Desla, but this review is going to really focus on Abicah Soul. When compared with past remixes of his, this one is truly a gem. I know that to say that suggests that Abicah Soul’s other efforts weren’t up to snuff. To the contrary, I am actually a big fan of his work, particularly his early work. Yet, if I am honest, some of his more recent remixes have left me a bit cold. That’s why it’s all the more significant that this mix really stands out. As many who are familiar with Abicah Soul, there’s a very specific sound that many of his remixes have. Some have described it as the result of the music being produced in one room, while the singer is in another – and never the twain shall meet. The end result can be a sound that several people I know have described as off key. The sound can definitely be something to get used to, yet it somehow works. With this track, everything is very much in key and in sync, and when the remix does veer off into that signature Abicah off-key sound, it feels pretty organic and it works. And I would be remiss if I didn’t tip my hat to Desla, whose vocals really add texture to the song. Overall, a great effort. (July 31, 2011)

Kenny Dope f. Josh Milan | Be Your Freak|Kenny Dope Remixes|

Oh dear. This should have been a no-brainer. I mean, you get two legends together like this and it should be nothing but quality. And who would blame these two from collaborating again given the success of that gem "Stay With Me." However, in this instance, the result is a rather frenetic result (I find the track a bit too fast in the beats per minute category) that lacks the usual layering and soul that I've come to expect from these two house music veterans. Having said that, the mere fact that its a Kenny Dope and Josh Milan joint venture means that people will probably scoop it up in droves. I just hope (and pray) that this particular track is not emblematic of what's to come. (July 26, 2011)

DeepCitySoul f. Jacqui George | We All Fall Down |Guy Robin Vocal Remix|

There's no denying that Guy Robin is good, but what he managed to do with this track is phenomenal, and it gets better with each listen. I am amazed at how much I like this song more now than when I purchased it. Uplifting, great beat, terrific vocals, this track has it all. To be sure, DeepCitySoul needs to get a lot of credit here, given it's their song. Having said that, I think it's worth mentioning that the sound Guy Robin utilizes here is vastly different from several of his more recent efforts (including "Only You," which is a 98-pound weakling compared with this track). Let's hope he taps into that part of his brain more often (a similar sound can be found in his Undergound remix of "Private Life," but even that doesn't have the strength of this mix). Perhaps a remix with Susu Bobien? Imagine it. (July 26, 2011)

DJ Spen Pres. Marc Evans & N’Dinga Gaba | My Heart Remembers |N’Dinga Gaba Remixes|

The first time I heard this track, I was like, “Wow.” And I only sampled the DJ Spen version. Then, I took a listen to N’Dinga Gaba’s version, and I was blown away. It’s no surprise that with the names attached to this project you’re almost certainly going to produce art. But when it’s really good art, that’s another story entirely. Marc Avon Evans’ vocals convey an emotion that suggests those lyrics are art imitating life. But what really makes this song work is the restraint that Evans demonstrates, as shows us the strength of his voice while at the same time holding back on the wailing that he usual does when he sings. Don’t get me wrong on this point: Evans is a great singer, with a lot of power in his voice. Yet my view is that the strength of a singer is demonstrated both when he lets loose and when he knows to hang back. In terms of versions, both Spen’s and Gaba’s are great, but I am really partial to the Gaba mixes, which have this great African beat and a vibe that makes me think of warm winds coming off a sea. Pure class. (July 24, 2011)

Redsoul f. Carla Prather | Save Me |83 West Vox|

It’s really great to be getting some more from our Canadian friends 83 West after what seemed like a far too long absence. We got a taste of how time has changed these guys when they released earlier this year a remix of Jon Cutler and Pete Simpson’s “Living,” and now this version of Redsoul’s collaboration with Carla Prather. As you know, I am a big fan of Sean McCabe, who also has a remix of this song out. But this version is the one that has managed to sneak up and grab me. It’s smooth, chill and soothing. (July 24, 2011)

Tikyo f. Andrea Love | Love Will Bring Us Back |Libation Vocal Mix by Ian Friday|

Backed by Ian Friday’s signature beat, and Andrea Love’s great vocals, this track really gets to me. Mature, smooth, deep and catchy in a very sophisticated way, “Love Will Bring Us Back” really is a delightful track, with a lot of layers that I discover with each listen. There is also something different about this track versus other Ian Friday productions. Indeed, you can definitely tell it’s Friday’s work, but there is something else going on here that gives at least me the impression that he approached this remix at least a little bit differently. If so, then change is most definitely good. (July 24, 2011)

Donae’o | I |Sean McCabe Remix

Listen to this song and you’ll know why I am such a big fan of Sean McCabe. My love letter to him notwithstanding, this is a great effort by him and Donae’o. His vocals and McCabe’s production create a very catchy but also layered result that you just want to listen to over and over again. I am really feeling Donae’o’s voice as well – it reminds me a little of Shaun Escoffery. But I also could listen to an instrumental of this as well. Definite quality. (July 3, 2011)

Rocco | Saharien Child |Lars Behrenroth Remixes|

Maybe it’s me, but I find this song to be absolutely crazy. But I mean that in a complimentary way. The chanting, the deep bass, everything else – they all collaborate to create a track that represents one of Rocco’s best. And he can thank Lars Behrenroth for that. So often, one tries to combine chanting with a house beat and you’re stuck with a result that sounds like Mumbai at rush hour. In this case, however, Behrenroth has done an excellent job melding very distinct worlds together. I suggest you also pick up the reprise version, because this track is hot even without the beats. (July 3, 2011)

The Vibes Organization f. Maggie Smile | Yes I Know |Marlon D’s Remixes|

I am not sure why, but this effort from Marlon D feels very different from the stuff he has done in the past. It sort of reminds me a little of some of the stuff Naked Music was churning out a decade ago. Deep, chill and the kind of music you want to hear while drinking a Hendrick’s martini while at some high-end beach resort. And this track definitely makes me feel like that. It’s just easy. The throaty vocals of Maggie Smile add a little something extra to the affair, and the result is terrific. (July 3, 2011)

THROWBACK REVIEW: Shades of Rhythm | Sweet Sensation |Joey Negro Konvershun Mix (1993)|

With most of us, there are moments in our club music lives that stay with us. The first time we visited a legendary club, or the first time we heard a track that we knew immediately would change our lives. This track is one of those for me. I remember hearing it for the first time while living in Washington, DC, listening to a house music session on a radio station out of Baltimore. The station would generally fade in and out, given the radio signal was weak, but on this particular day, at this particular moment, this track rang through, clear as a bell. And when the first breakdown came in, I was hooked. Deep, haunting, and very, very layered, what I liked about this track was that first, it took its time to build, and second, it really was several songs in one, sewn beautifully together. One of Joey Negro's (aka Dave Lee) earlier efforts, you can tell that Joey took his time with this one. Despite being some 18 years old, this bad boy feels as fresh today as it did when I heard on the radio. To be honest, I am not sure how Joey feels about this one, because many of his subsequent remixes and products are not nearly deep or layered as this one (let's be clear, Joey Negro has a terrific aesthetic, and everything he does is top notch) . Having said that, there are times when I can hear elements of this song in subsequent productions of his, which I have to think says something. Indeed, this is very different from a lot of what Joey Negro has done over the years, deeper and at more than 11 minutes long, also longer than most of his stuff. But it never gets old, and never too long. (June 12, 2011)

Cei Bei | Call Me |Kojo Akusa Sun Down Mix|

Sorry to have put this review out there so late, but this is definitely a case of better late than never. Long a fan of Cei Bei, this latest effort, and specifically this particular mix, is pure bliss. It simply flows, and flows nicely. With great keys and a deep vibe, this is another one of those tracks you want to hear while driving down the road at night with sunroof and all the windows open. Let's be clear, both versions are lovely, but I am partial to the Kojo Akusa version, which to me evokes a little of Atjazz. (June 12, 2011)

Bossruu f. Wandile | Ngawe |Atjazz Love Soul Remixes|

Atjazz has done it again. Not sure if many of you have noticed, but Atjazz has been prolific the past few weeks, churning remix after remix. And we're all the better for it, because his stuff has been on fire. This latest remix effort by him is nothing short of pure class. Using some quality Afro beats, combined with that Atjazz deep vibe, and you have pure aural pleasure -- a result that evokes warm winds with that layered Atjazz vibe. Definitely pick this one up. It's top notch. (June 12, 2011)

DJ Fudge f. Mani Hoffman | Nightglows |Jon Cutler's Distant Music Mixes|

This week, tracks that were remixed by Jon Cutler make two appearances in the Soulful-Selections reviews section. This one features the vocals of Mani Hoffman, whom I haven't heard from in quite a while. What makes this song interesting is that it is both deep and relatively catchy. It's the sort of song I expect to hear at the start of a set, a good utility player. To be sure, it may not knock people's socks off upon a first listen, but each time I hear this track, it grows on me more. (May 24, 2011)

Pak Jones f. Nia | For A Moment |Jon Cutler's Distant Music Mixes|

Of the two tracks that I am reviewing that have been remixed by Jon Cutler, this one here is more of my favorite. It, too, is deep and catchy. But it also has a haunting quality that just gets me. I think what does it for me is that there is a restraint with Cutler's remix that also has a quiet strength behind it. Nia's vocals add another layer, as she takes her time with each note (more evidence of the restraint associated with the track). I have often said some of my favorite tracks are the sort I can blast while driving down the Henry Hudson Parkway. This track definitely qualifies. (May 24, 2011)

DJ Kent f. Malehloka Hlalele | Falling |DJ Black Coffee Remix|

There is no doubt that Black Coffee has had a very good 2011 so far. This particular release further cements his place as one of house music's greatest arrivals in a long time. This track, in which you can't help but hear a little of Quentin Harris's sound, is likely to be a huge track for spring and summer. The combination of Malehloka Hlalele's vocals and Black Coffee's remixing skills make this one a winner. All the more gratifying is that it has a housier and bumpier sound that what we've gotten from Black Coffee in the past, suggesting he's very willing to branch out and let the music take him wherever it takes him. We as the listener don't mind one bit. (May 24, 2011)

Lem f. Lea Lorien | Love At First Sight |Jose Carretas Remix|

This is one of those songs that I would describe as a builder. Starting out somewhat slowly, this was not a song I initially paid attention to until that last one-third of the song, at which time I was like, "What is this?" In a good way. To be honest, I should not have doubted this track, given Jose Carretas's history. I think what initially underwhelmed me was was Lea Lorien's vocals during the verses. But somehow something changes when she launches into the chorus. At that point, you have a pretty catchy track that will definitely have a place in future Soulful-Selections mixes. (May 15, 2011)

Real Tone Records Pres. The New Blood EP Part 3

Full disclosure: nearly anything coming out of label Real Tone Records, and more specifically, anything from label boss Franck Roger, is going to have an easier time in my reviewing because nearly all of his stuff is good. This release is no exception, with four out of the five tracks on this five-song EP offering simple yet seductive deep house goodness. Among my favorites are Burnski's "Tropical Nights," which offers the clearest sense of Roger's influence, with a little Maya Jane Coles thrown in for good measure. The other ones worth listening to are Dezeta N'Basile & Cozzy D's "What A Day" and Tripmastaz's "Monitor Blind." Good, deep tracks that when you listen, you can easily transport yourself to a great club, late at night, just dancing your butt off. (May 10, 2011)

DJ Micks f. Robin Latimore | First To Say Goodbye |Rocco Deep Mixes|

Wow. That's all I can say on this one. What a great reinterpretation of the famous Gladys Knight track, complete with deep spin on things. The truth is, some people may not get this track, may not understand what exactly is going on with this one. It's a remix that takes a few listens to really understand what Rocco is trying to do, and for some people it may be over their heads. All I can suggest to those who claim to be into deep house music is that they give it a few more listens. These are remixes that have layers, despite the song's apparent simplicity. And Robin Latimore does her level best to really put her stamp on things, too, without bigfooting Ms. Knight. (May 10, 2011)

Joey Negro Pres. Akabu | Life Is So Strange |Joey Negro Medusa Mixes|

With Joey Negro taking on so many personas in house music, it' sometimes hard to keep track, but this one is going to stay with me for a while. Combine that subtle yet haunting Joey Negro vibe with singer Tony Momrelle's vocals creates a great dance track that in some respects harkens back to Joey's earlier days. For some reason, this track reminds me of the work he did with The Sunshine Band, as well as that gem that Dave Lee (Joey's real name) did with Ann Saunderson back in like 2005 or so ("You're Not Alone"). It's exactly the kind of Joey Negro/Dave Lee/Akabu sound I like. (May 10, 2011)

Frankie Knuckes Pres. Director's Cut f. Jamie Principle | I'll Take You There

I know that we househeads are supposed to be predisposed to liking every effort put forth by Frankie Knuckles and Jamie Principle given their place in the house music history books . However, I cannot abide by that rule. Certainly not this time. You'd think that after all this time without a release this one would be layered and substantial, and not the derivative dance track that we have here. I can't help but be reminded Roachford's "River of Love" whenver I hear this song. And I do not like that song. Yes, the message in this track is positive, but the song itself is not particularly memorable. (May 9, 2011)

Alex Millet f. Susu Bobien | Reach |Reelsoul Vocal Mix|

When Miss SuSu sings, you best listen! Besides the message in her music, you have that powerful set of pipes that she unleashes at every opportunity and you can't help but be moved. Combine her vocals with the skills of Will "Reelsoul" Rodriguez and you a lethal combination. I'd say that my only chief gripe is that the music and SuSu seem to be working somewhat at cross purposes. The fact is that very few people can control SuSu's voice, which is a force all its own. The smart producers recognize that it's the SuSu show and figure out how to deal with this unstoppable force. Others try to grab a seat at the same table; sometimes it works, other times it does not. In this case, when you really listen to the music, you clearly see there is a struggle for control taking place. It's a fun battle to listen to, though I must admit I was a bit disappointed when SuSu's vocals ended and we were only left with the music. Don't get me wrong; I understand that SuSu is only human, so her staying power won't nearly be as great as the electronics she's competing with. Having said that, it sure is a pleasure to hear. (May 9, 2011)

Lefunken f. Stephanie Renee | Knowing |G Family Mixes|

One has to always be a little nervous when a track from a few years ago gets remixed in an attempt to breath new life into the traci, its producer and label. Even so, G Family reinterprets this gem to create a nice and deep track that gets your feet moving. While the vocal is good, the dubmental mix is really where it's at, a track that is slow to both build and grow on you. But once you let it work its magic, you have a terrific house track for the warm weather. (May 9, 2011)