Mike Griego feat. Amber Long – Sofia. Inc Guy Mantzur Remix [Plattenbank Recordings]
by Priya Sen December 17, 2014Plattenbank Records shows the year out, with my favorite Vocalist Amber Long and the invincible Mike Griego steering a slice of emotive, melodic Techno buggy that is not only good, but is also that one release why, we need to celebrate dance music that’s presenting itself in a whole new wondrous light. Especially this year, more so. And while I’m at it, what a fabulous year it’s been for Canadian artist Amber Long.
This gob smacking colloboration offers us ”Sofia” by way of the lone track in two versions. The first Dub mix is built on a melody that undulates and drives through a never ending subterranean tunnel, its peaks and creases cleverly designed to give the impression of coquetish drama. The clinical bass line and hypnotic interiors make you feel like you can actually hear the dancing lights of the Arctic skies, like a sonic Aurora Borealis hovering over your head. And not for one second does it disappoint.
The specialty of ”Sofia” continues with Plattenbank boss cum Tel Aviv magician, Guy Mantzur remixing the second version, it starts off with a harder edge, turning up the pressure with a heavy bass kick and spasmodic jets of click clacks. All the elements of the previous mix remain, but such is Mantzur’s take, that one immediately tunes in to his tricky rearrangement. The most telling difference is that the volume has been raised ever so slightly and the other of Miss Long’s vocalism peeking through like sunshine on a rainy day. The splintering cold beauty of the Dub rework gets replaced by a poignant background of warm bass, and Guy opting for a shuffling flirtatious beat.
The stars will fall with the timelessness of this pack!