New releases last four weeks: Progressive House

Review: Barcelona mainstay Baldo originally released 'Ride The Night' as part of digital single Saturdays Come And Gone on Permanent Vacation in 2022. As a fierce and fabulous homage to Hi-NRG, it showed the most muscular, nocturnal side of Baldo's sound and the track took on a life of its own. Now the label have decided to give the track more prominence with this heavyweight vinyl remix package, which kicks off in style with a suitably throbbing workout from Red Axes before switching to the strutting big room style of Alex Neri. Jennifer Loveless zeroes in to the sensual heart of the track with a thrumming low end and a powerful command of the tension in the track, leaving it to Baldo's original to close the EP out in style.

Review: Belarusian producer Four Walls is back - this time around he finds himself on the new Ultraworld Records imprint from DJ Craft. This one kicks off with the lush prog house and silky synth arps of 'Mind Charger' which soon takes you to the stars. 'Metamorphosis' is a more raw-edged and acid-laced techno stomper for peak time action and 'Summer Nights' is a bubbling, elastic tapestry of new age overtones, thudding kicks, and trance-tinged pads. A remix by Toronto-based Pletnev adds another dimension to this club-ready EP.

Review: Sascha Funke is a long time master of the deep who arrives on the always tastefully diverse Running Back label headed up so expertly by Gerd Janson. He brings a slightly different look here with the wonky, twitchy and tech infused rhythmic stomp of 'Reality'. There is more melody on display on 'Fantasy' with its ever rising synth loops glowing bright with a celestial hue and on the flip-side 'Puzzle' pairs some subtly joyous piano chord stabs over prickly disco-tech beats with molten arps underneath. 'Halle Weissensee' then closes down with a nice stiff and rave ready house sound, snappy beats and tight bass.

Review: London-based artist and Semi Delicious label head Demi Riquisimo brings some peak time future tech inspiration to his new Windows 95 Anthem EP on Higher Ground. He has already dropped signature sounds on Ninja Tune, DJ Tennis' Life & Death and collaborated with Carlita, UNKLE and TSHA, so is very much a man of the moment. In this EP he leans on Italo and acid for his melodic licks which are high speed and glossy as they surge over crispy beats and retro-future keys. Chloe Caillet and Spray also add their own remixes to this tidy new 12".

Review: Sasha's Fleuron Drift epitomises classic progressive house, showcasing his expertise in the genre. The original track features a strong melodic build and consistent energy throughout, captivating listeners with its dynamic progression. On the B-side, the remixes kick off with Theo Kottis' remix injects a more upbeat and trance-like vibe, with futuristic and techy elements. The growling bassline adds intensity, while a melodic break and tension release keep the energy flowing. In contrast, Kassian's remix takes a more minimal approach, focusing on groove. Stripping back the layers, it emphasizes rhythm and movement, creating a hypnotic atmosphere that draws listeners into its depths. Overall, Fleuron Drift and its remixes offer a diverse range of sounds and styles, staying true to the essence of classic progressive house.

Review: The long beloved Balance series of DJ mixes gathers two prominent figures in the history of dance music for this one episode - Dave Seaman & Quivver. The two are paired up for this double CD set that also features two new tracks to make this project even more appetising. Both Dave Seaman and John Graham aka Quivver have over 30 plus years in the business each, with DJ gigs and credits lists that go on for days to read and their experience shows here. Highlights include Dave's heavy driving remix of 'Low Burn' by Underworld, Ben Archbold's epic 'Psychedelic Halo' and Timo Maas's bass heavy remix of Polaroit's 'Apart'. Dave and Quivver's mixing is flawless as usual - their ability to take a handful of strong tracks and make an epic journey is something they have earned their stripes doing, now you can experience it from the comfort of your living room.

Review: Soul Button's Master Minds is a standout example to the boundless creativity and emotional depth of melodic techno. Released as a special double vinyl, this collection is full of atmospheric depth and rhythmic precision, making is a catchy and addictive listen. Each track is a meticulously crafted piece, resonating with themes of fate and predestination akin to the strategic depth of chess. Highlights like 'Tartribe' weave darker tensions and hypnotic vibes, drawing listeners into a mesmerising journey of sound. 'Mystique Veil' emerges as a peak-time techno gem, blending melodic elements with resonant beats to create an unforgettable sonic experience. Meanwhile, 'Lumina' has a strong vocal presence and trancey elements, further enriching the album's narrative. Master Minds not only showcases Soul Button's talent but also his artistry at creating a consistent and well produced full length album.