The 78th release on Madloch’s Sound Avenue imprint welcomes Agustin Basulto back to the label for a new EP.
The Argentinean artist first appeared on the Belgian imprint in February of last year with his five track artist showcase ‘Lapiz’. The collection made a strong statement, earning support from Hernan Cattaneo and Nick Warren which quickly shot Agustin into the spotlight. Now following a year heads down in the studio the Argentine returns to Sound Avenue for his much anticipated second EP alongside a remix from Pole Folder.
Looking to expand on the diverse sonic palate which highlighted ‘Lapiz’ Agustin more than achieves that on the lead cut ‘Regen’. Esoteric designs, frayed percussion and moody melodies converge for a unique and emotional storyboard, while a chugging groove lays claim to the dance floor throughout. Gloomy vocals and tripped out hypnotics underline a meditative third act, perfectly set up by a tasteful yet dramatic break. A wonderful beginning to the EP.
The lone interpretation of ‘Regen’ is provided by Pole Folder who is returning to the label for his second appearance. The Belgian artist known for his appearances on John Digweed’s Bedrock Records had another amazing year in 2016. A selective release schedule highlighted with remixes for Baroque Records, ICONYC, Movement Recordings and Tulipa Records along with originals on his Reworck imprint were all outstanding. 2017 began with a much anticipated single for the Dutch imprint Click Records, reaching well into the Beatport Top 20. Now continuing that strong momentum Pole Folder delivers an outstanding interpretation of ‘Regen’. With more of a pure progressive house sensibility the Belgian artist works a smooth rhythmic core to mesmerizing effect, as tantalizing textures and melodic accents fill the atmosphere. Bulbous swells bring a lovely emotion as glassy melodies initiate the main break. A hazy drift and haunting vocal pads add an air of mystery, lifting the vibe higher, before a rush of white noise carries you into a goosebump worthy finale.
The EP’s third selection ‘Four of Us’ again showcases Agustin’s unique design skills over a club friendly framework. Eerie synths, tribal drums and intriguing vocals peak your senses before spaced out sonics take the vibe into astral territory. Deep, emotive and incredibly poignant, the main break provides one of the collections most heart-rending moments. Definitely a production which will stick with you long after the night is over.
‘Calma’ and ‘Tercer Desliz’ round out the release in equally impressive fashion with moments of tension and soul respectively. The former comes in tough, dark and driving with electric synths and haunting vocals leading the charge. While the closer ‘Tercer Desliz’ caps the release off with a more reflective tone. A slower tempo, deeper groove and murky atmospheres play nicely before dreamy motifs bring a strong emotive vibe leading into the break. Solemn and contemplative, the tracks centrepiece brings about many feelings, with hope being the most prominent. A look forward into the future perhaps from one of Argentina’s brightest young talents. Highly Recommended.
