Basilisk
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Posted : Apr 23, 2006 03:33
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Absolut & Blade · Downward
Kumquat 2005 (Vinyl Single)
Cover:
http://www.ektoplazm.com/gallery2/d/3793-2/absolut-downward.jpg
A :: Downward
B :: Downward (Thomas Penton Remix)
The debut vinyl release from Kumquat features the well-known Swiss producers Absolut & Blade. They’ve been very successful on the international stage, garnering major respect from some of the world’s top progressive DJs. André Absolut has been particularly prolific in 2005, remixing countless tunes for all kinds of labels, as well as releasing his own original material on labels such as Sog, Tribal Vision, Vertikal, and Plusquam. With the credentials established, let’s examine the beats on this cut of wax.
Downward is an refreshing piece of dark progressive that makes a distinct departure from the usual fat and friendly grooves these artists are known for. The chunky rhythmic style remains, but the atmosphere is distinctly ominous and richly psychedelic. The title is well chosen, as there are several entrancing sequences of manipulated female vocals that tumble from the heights in a steady downward spiral. Additional elements contribute to the overall effect: a plucky acid line, a vocoded sample stating “close your eyes”, and a scathing flourish that occasionally cuts through the haze. The end result is a highly effective and distinctly original piece of deep progressive trance that almost verges on techtrance.
On the flipside, acclaimed American producer Thomas Penton’s expresses a much more conventional electro-influenced progressive style. While he has certainly done a competent job of transmuting the moody character of Downward into a bright and shimmering big room anthem, it doesn’t really convey the spirit of the original. After hearing the distinct psychedelic qualities of Absolut & Blade’s original, this version seems superficial and trite in some respects. Taken as a track in its own right, this is actually one of the better productions I’ve heard from Thomas Penton. The mark of a good remix is in changing a song just enough to suit alternate contexts, so in that respect, this version is a success.
The Downward EP is a substantial release. Absolut & Blade successfully deviate from their usual approach to deliver a gutsy dark progressive bomb, while Thomas Penton provides accessible electro fare for less daring DJs. Kumquat’s first is worth tracking down on vinyl, and can also be purchased in full-quality wave formant on several digital download sites. Recommended!
Rating: 8
From: http://www.ektoplazm.com/reviews/absolut-blade-downward/
More reviews at: http://www.ektoplazm.com/reviews/
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