The latest release on Balkan Connection finds Antrim and Luis Bondio collaborating on a brand new single entitled ‘Brain Damage’.
The sometime studio partners have delivered several outstanding tracks in the past, most notably for Luis’ Classound Recordings. Now they present their newest studio creation alongside an excellent selection of remixes from Namatjira, Madloch & Hot TuneiK and Analog Jungs.
With a title like ‘Brian Damage’ there’s definitely some twisted expectations and Antrim and Luis have certainly delivered. Although coming on a more subversive level the vocal storyboard is wonderfully warped and oddly beautiful all at once. It’s warm walls of bass and quirky rhythms work amazingly well together and a wavering tonal theme adds just a hint of emotion. The main break is the star of the show though, the wall of vocally harmonics is just astoundingly beautiful and sets up a great third act. Amazing work from Antrim and Luis.
Balkan Connection always puts together great projects and the remixer selection here is really nice. First up Namatjira returns to the label for his ninth appearance and takes the track in a deeper and dreamier direction. With a misty atmospheric backdrop setting the stage the track flows through a myriad of motifs and dulcet hooks. There’s a bit of a grainy feel here which I think is really nice, it gives the piece a dubbier connotation and a rainy day styled break seals it’s beauty. Gorgeous remix from Namatjira.
Next up we find Madloch and Hot TuneiK collaborating on a techno inspired rendition of ‘Brain Damage’. Hailing from Belgium and Mexico, Madloch and Hot TuneiK head up the Sound Avenue and Hookah Records imprints respectively. Years of collective studio experience has produced a monster of a remix here led by punchy beats and electric grooves. The moody themes from the original are well maintained but with meaner surroundings it ends up sounding quite deadly, and a dramatic break followed by stripped beats and razor sharp synth work should ensure a massive reaction on the dance floor. Huge remix from Madloch & Hot TuneiK.
Closing the release out are Analog Jungs who return to Balkan Connection for their fourth appearance. The Argentinean duo have certainly found a home on the Serbian imprint and deliver a strong remix here once again. Sitting somewhere nicely in between the dreaminess of Namatjira’s and the tough minded approach of Madloch and Hot Tuneik, Analog Jungs have provided a complementary mix with the most emotive moment on the EP. Following a rather unassuming first act the piece breaks down into cavernous centrepiece of symphonic synths and vocal pads, making for a gorgeous conclusion to the release. Lovely remix from Analog Jungs and a great release from Balkan Connection. Don’t miss it.
