John Digweed & Nick Muir / 30 Northeast (with Abe Duque remix)
Vinyl / Digital
Bedrock Records / Released June 2011
What does it sound like?
Diggers and Muir take things back to the old school, complete with enough sheen to mark the production details out as wholly 2011. Both are beaten to the 90s by the American remixer whose penchant for early rave is clear from the retro keyboards.
It’s not too surprising though, as was said the source material offers something of a timeless vibe. Thunderous string stabs rise and fall in an intimidating manner, while chugging bass and heavy kicks pad out a compulsive path. Before long we’re given a brief break while distant organs play out a similar tune, and then one of those tracking hooks drops and you realise who’s behind the masterplan. From there it grows, grooves, and pans its way to more classic tones, this time in the shape of a spooky, plucked synth melody with horn extensions; proggy techno no less.
Where would I dance to it?
Main rooms, small rooms, it doesn’t matter about size so long as it’s a very dark room.
What highlights can I expect to hear?
Unquestionably the two bossmen’s original, though Duque’s reworking is probably going to fit in with more playlists. Regardless 30 Northeast isn’t just a great track, it’s a fitting representation of an imprint that has managed to put out music of a very specific style for over a decade, while still sounding innovative and essential on almost every occasion.
Why should I pay for it?
Chances are you already know the answer to this, whether it’s a legal or moral one. Either way quality deserves credit.
Where can I buy it?
