Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic – Blackout [Kunai Records]

The latest release from Kunai Records finds the label bosses Michael and Levan and Stiven Rivic presenting a brand new single. The veteran trio have been enjoying a fruitful year highlighted by two releases for ICONYC and a remix for Sandra Collins on Stripped Recordings. Now following up a successful debut on D-Formation's Beatfreak Recordings, Michael, Levan and Stiven return to Kunai with 'Blackout' alongside remixes from Medway and Lexicon Avenue.

Always looking to diversify their portfolio Michael, Levan and Stiven explore deep, dubby territory on 'Blackout'. Beginning with punchy, organic beats, it's the warmth and fluidity of the groove which becomes instantly compelling. Perfectly contoured and full of great character, it anchors what is a pulsating and highly evocative slice of deep techno. Vibrant and timeless across its eight minute running time, the main break perhaps holds its greatest sense of nostalgia, with a smooth, emotive storyboard delivering a multitude of heartfelt moments.

The first interpretation of 'Blackout' is provided by Medway who makes his label debut. Long time progressive house fans will certainly recognize the name Medway, the US born, UK based artist was a favourite of Sasha and John Digweed for many years. A string of releases on Hooj Choons through the late nineties proved to some of the biggest during a time many refer to as the golden era of progressive house. Medway's 'Resurrection', 'Fat Bastard', 'The Elements', 'Release' and 'Trauma' EP's all sit as progressive house classics. Now making a long overdue return, Medway provides a stunning rendition of 'Blackout'. Anchored by a warm, wonderfully sculpted groove and fiery percussion, there's a deep yet electric mood from the outset. As radiant chord stabs steal the air, drifting atmospheres gently descend over the framework, while sweeping effects and arcane artefacts tantalize the senses. Anticipation builds as the main break progresses, phasing textures and astute narration unite, before getting washed away as the pulsating groove returns for a magic moment. Heady stuff from Medway who is clearly still at the top of his game.

The release concludes with another progressive house pioneer Lexicon Avenue providing the second and final interpretation of 'Blackout'. Perhaps best known for his Depeche Mode 'Only When I Lose Myself' interpretation, Chris Scott of Lexicon Avenue has been on the cutting edge of electronic music for over 15 years. He boasts a discography which includes releases on Audio Therapy, Hooj Choons, Ministry of Sound, Mute, Renaissance, and Yoshitoshi. Although sporadic Lexicon Avenue has made a welcome return to the scene in recent years with outings for Perspectives Digital and Jack Trax Records. Now rounding the release out in style the UK artist provides an inspired take on 'Blackout'. The journey begins with a deep, spacious groove and funk fuelled rhythms. As the narrative progresses, fragmented motifs carry a lovely meditative quality, perfectly transferring energy into the main break. Building methodically, wonky bass modulation and emotive chord changes provide the perfect anchor for an icy climb to a deadly drop. Definitely one for a clued up dance floor and a perfect way to round out this nostalgic release from Kunai Records. Highly recommended.

Buy: https://bit.ly/33frV3X

Release Date: 14-10-2019

Release Promo: http://releasepromo.com

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