- There's a dreamlike optimism all over house music these days. Super Tuff Records' debut release, a four-track compilation of powerful dance floor cuts, channels this with its own distinctive flair. The EP has a tendency towards big, tender samples that are offset by muscular drum machines. The high point is "Reel Recognize Reel," by the Brooklyn-based label's founder, M. Vaughan. With an irresistible swing in the hi-hats and a kick drum that will steamroll dance floors, even the intro is exciting. Add an evocative layer of cosmic disco samples and a killer bassline and you've got a powerful party starter.
The other highlight is "Offering," by DJ Aakmael, a Richmond, Virginia-based producer whose discography dates back almost 15 years. The drum programming has a wonderfully soft touch, and its hypnotic acid synths are reminiscent of Larry Heard's unforgettable comeback EP from last year. Moony Me's "Taurora" makes use of the same palette, though with a more urgent rhythm. This time, the acid line has a bite. Jesse Bru's contribution, "Futaki," harnesses the classic trope of building a track around a spoken-word monologue, and does it well. It's friendly, danceable and well executed, with an emotional tint that pulls at the heartstrings without feeling overly sentimental.
Lista de sequência de músicasA1 Jesse Bru - Futaki
A2 DJ Aakmael - Offering
B1 M. Vaughan - Reel Recognize Reel
B2 Moony Me - Taurora