This is the twelfth episode of this podcast series, and so it completes the first year. We figured everyone could use some cheering up, so here are some of the most uplifting tracks from the past few months:
1. Audioglider – ‘Ocular Overkill (Tripswitch Remix)’ โ Section
This is Section-boss Tripswitchโs huge remix of the first single from Audiogliderโs excellent second album on the label. It sets the mood I wanted for this mix perfectly, with that fabulous intro leading to a host of retro and totally euphoric sounds, plus of course that piano!
Release date: 27/6/16
Review
Buy
2. Guri & Eider – ‘It’s Nobody’s (Oneplus Remix)’ – Sub_Urban
Iโve been putting Oneplusโs work with regular studio-partner Wiki on my podcasts for the best part of three years now, so you can chalk me up as a bit of a fan. But this is the most anthemic thing Iโve heard from him so far, with Eiderโs powerful voice working really well with drifting pianos, busy melodies, and a supremely driving bassline. This is an absolute belter from the ever-cool Sub_Urban team.
Release date: 6/6/16
Buy
3. Andre Sobota – ‘Can’t Remember’ โ Kyubu
‘Can’t Remember’ is another bold, melodic picker-upper from Andre Sobota, in a similar vein to the wonderful โSouthern Sundanceโ on his last outing on Kyubu, with bright melodic themes and a chugging bassline timed slightly unusually over characteristically clean and high-impact percussion.
Release date: 4/7/16
Review
Buy
4. Khen – ‘Never Lose Your Innocence’ โ Sudbeat
Khenโs work is always worth hearing, and โNever Lose Your Innocenceโ starts life as a low-key progger packing some seriously heavy basslines, but after the breakdown it flowers into something much more colourful and memorable. If you missed our interview with Khen when the release dropped on Sudbeat, check it out!
Release date: 9/5/16
Buy
5. Mike Griego – ‘Idioglossia’ โ microCastle
โIdioglossiaโ quickly builds a really unique, distinctive groove, with rich percussive elements meeting a catchy little hook and a pulsing bassline, and Mike Griego weaves in even subtler melodies as the track heads into the trippy, abstract breakdown, which sets a powerful, head-spinning second half.
Release date: 22/4/16
Review
Buy
6. Quivver – ‘Call’ โ Sudbeat
This is the track that I decided to let set the tone for the whole mix. ‘Call’ radiates warmth and joy, with uplifting pads, a motoring bassline, and a hook that’s not only incredibly catchy, but thanks to Quivver’s production skills, has this incredible texture and presence to it. It’s gorgeous and inspirational, and easily one of the musical highlights of the year so far.
Release date: 20/6/16
Review
Buy
7. Mariano Favre – ‘Plunder (Bastards of Funk & Sonic Union Remix)’ โ Lowbit
I included Mariano Favreโs beautiful โAnagramโ on Juneโs podcast, and โPlunderโ is an equally lovely progressive gem from him. But itโs the sparkling, bass-heavy Bastards of Funk & Sonic Union remix that fitted this mix โ this is one of my favourite releases this year from the always excellent Lowbit.
Release date: 9/5/16
Buy
8. Luka Sambe – ‘When I’m With Her’ โ Particles
โWhen Iโm With Herโ is a 10 minute+ slice of euphoria, with a rolling bassline, cool vocal work, fantastically uplifting melodies that recur at key moments throughout the track, and massive key changes that complement the main melodic themes perfectly. Iโve really liked Luka Sambeโs last few tracks, and this isnโt even the first time Iโve closed this podcast with one of hisย productions, but this is probably his best work so far โ itโs another one of those records that can single-handedly lift your mood.
