Review: Joshua Iz - The Figure (Dream In Audio)

Joshua Iz should certainly not require any introduction from me, having appeared on many of the greatest house labels on earth over the years, both in his solo guise and as one half of Iz & Diz. He enjoys a game of tennis and claims to make a mean salsa, although YATM have yet to be invited to a tasting, so unfortunately we can't comment. We are, however able to comment on his brand new brace of tracks on Dream In Audio; and if his salsa is anywhere near as good as his latest EP, I for one want to go round to his place for lunch. Vintage, vibey, fun and full of energy, 'The Figure' is a surefire dancefloor weapon. The B Side, 'What You Like', is a rather more restrained and deeper affair with all the atmosphere and groove we've come to expect from mister Iz. Just brilliant house music. Emerging producers take note- this is how it's done.

Review: Adnan Sharif - WeR1 (Uniting Souls Music)

Seattle's Uniting Souls Music have impressed me greatly with their last few releases. It's a label which doesn't fall into the trap of releasing safe, generic tracks like so many others these days, and this policy really makes it stand out from the crowd. The latest release is certainly no exception, featuring a spiritual call to the dancefloor from veteran DJ and producer Adnan Sharif, as well as remixes by Pezzner & Michael Manahan. Musically, the package is perfectly balanced. The original version is a completely unique tune; dark, delicate and soulful in equal measure, with a gorgeous vocal drop from Light Searcher. Pezzner's remix meanwhile is nothing less than a deep house dancefloor behemoth, with all the darkness, twists, turns and squelches we've come to expect from him. Finally, Michael Manahan's version takes on a much lighter mood and a real hypnotic sense of musicality, making it ideal for the terrace. A fantastic EP overall, highly recommended.

WeR1 is released on April 3rd 2012 on all major download stores.

Adnan Sharif - WeR1 (Uniting Souls Music) by 8DPromo

Preview: Baker Street 5th Anniversary Sampler

Baker Street is one of those labels which consistently delivers musically without ever creating much fuss or hype. Based in Leeds and run by Paul Hardy, Baker Street has spent half a decade popping out dancefloor gems tailored to the more discerning DJ.

Moodymanc, Sei A, Sasse, Lee Mortimer, Demarkus Lewis and many more stalwarts of the scene have appeared on the label, and to celebrate their birthday they are releasing a full length LP featuring brand new remixes of their finest tracks.

I was sent a 6 track sampler of the release, which is available from April 9th in all major download stores, and I'm happy to report that all of the mixes are very good indeed. In particular, look out for Paul Hardy & McKai's remix of Paul Hardy's 'Ninja Slipper', and Jay Shepheard's sublime remix of 'Dust' (also composed by Hardy).

I believe it's no coincidence that my two picks on the anniversary sampler are produced by the label boss himself. Freerange & Lost My Dog are just two examples of many great labels whose owners have created much of their most memorable output, and Baker Street fits into the same mold. There's something special about a small label run by a great producer; creativity happens more easily, artistic respect is mutual, and a unique style is naturally achieved.

So here's to Baker Street, and another five years of fine house music bearing the image of a certain fictional pipe-smoking gentleman.

Paul Hardy & McKai have produced a mix to accompany the album release, which is available to stream or download here:

5th Anniversary Mixed by Paul Hardy & McKai by Baker Street Recordings

www.bakerstreetrecordings.com