Ukraninan label Artreform continue to spread positivity through music, during a most turbulent time for their homeland. Understandably, the invasion of Ukraine has overshadowed progress on the platform in recent times. The next release is however ready to break through, welcoming back one of the country’s most prolific underground house producers. iO (Mulen) returns.
He’s already a deep-rooted member of the Artreform family, with productions coming in on the label as early as 2013. Over a decade, alongside (iO Mulen), the platform have hosted Bushwacka! Rhadow, Kirik, Hooved, Robot Needs Oil and of course JOSS, the man at the helm. The latest in the series features an original from JOSS himsel, with iO Mulen on the remix of ‘Justify’.
Primed to be a peak time player, this one oozes energy from the off. Growling groove layers the foundations, soon dominated by a juicy bassline rolling heat. Melodies brush from simple key strokes, while more raucous synth sweeps over tapping percussion. As the beat drives forward, elegant pads stream in an atmosphere, delving deeper into the blend.
Tension rises with choppy vocal and tinges of acid, building into a heated whirl of dedicated house. Vibrant and electric, this will lift any crowd into an altered state, a determined focus on getting down to the groove.
JOSS’ original brings a more relaxed approach, centred on sweeping synths and a deep, plodding bassline. Steady notes set ambience, with warming chords dancing above.
Buy the record from Phonica or deejay.de, expected 24th June. Also check out the recent premiere of ARR043, a remix from Mihai Popoviciu.
More info on iO (Mulen)
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More info on Artreform Records
Facebook | Resident Advisor | Soundcloud | Bandcamp | Instagram | Discogs
