Balad – A Distant Memory [Sound Avenue]

The latest release from Madloch's Sound Avenue imprint welcomes Balad back to the label for a new EP entitled 'A Distant Memory'. The Australian artist first appeared on the Belgian imprint in 2019 with 'The Days', an EP produced alongside frequent studio partner Bigasti. The Sydney residents deep sound has continued to flourish as he carefully adds to a resume that includes releases on Balance Music, BeatFreak Recordings, Where The Heart Is and Nick Warren's The Soundgarden. Now making a welcome return to Sound Avenue, Balad presents his first solo EP for the label alongside a remix from Zone+.

Beginning with the title selection Balad explores a gorgeous blend of organic drums and charming musicality. Warm beats and layers of exotic percussion set the foundation for a narrative of wistful themes and nature motifs. Plush tones then drift over the framework for impassioned moments, before melting to a charming centrepiece and heartfelt finale.

The second selection 'A Half Remembered Dream' continues the ethos of the EP while adding a slightly more reflective quality. Smooth, elegant and a touch romantic, it's a captivating eight-minute journey. Muted tones and impassioned wails marry elegant motifs and thoughtful atmospherics, while exotic percussion and fluttery concepts provide the perfect prelude to a gorgeous final act.

The third and final original 'A Place Forgotten' once again finds Balad operating at a creative peak. From smooth, percussive beginnings comes buoyant yet elegant rhythms. Blissful atmospheres and redolent shades slowly descend over dulcet beats and organic drums. As the narrative evolves so too does its emotive appeal, with sentimental motifs and soulful refrains trailing over the framework, before a muted piano highlights a glowing break and dreamy final act.

The release concludes with Zone+ returning to the label and providing the lone interpretation of 'A Half Remembered Dream'. The Bahrain born, Dubai based artist has firmly established himself with releases on All Day I Dream, Akbal Music, Underyourskin and Sol Selectas. Having first appeared on Sound Avenue in 2017 with a collaborative EP alongside Bachir Salloum, Zone+ now makes a welcome return to the label with a gorgeous rendition of 'A Half Remembered Dream'. Taking a cue from the original while adding a funkier state of mind, the Dubai resident crafts a lovely complement to the original. Subterranean beats and perfectly contoured bass stabs create a massive sense of space, while lively percussion adds further bounce to the narrative. Timely fills create dynamic moments across the first act, while warm overlays highlight an emotive final movement. An exceptional remix from Zone+, capping off a welcome return to the label for both himself and Balad.

Buy: https://bit.ly/3fTBo6Y

Release Date: 17-08-2020

Release Promo: http://releasepromo.com

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