Namatijra – Silken Diagonal EP (MNL)

Namatijra returns to Paul Hazendonk's MNL imprint this week with a brand new EP. The Dutch artist has found a home on the Manual Music family of labels with this being his fourth appearance. 2016 proved fruitful with a release on Anjunadeep along with a special remix for Armin Van Buuren. The momentum continued to start the year with an EP for Gabriel Ananda's Soulful Techno Records and now he returns to MNL with a fresh two track offering alongside remixes from Eran Aviner and Antrim. 

Beginning with the title cut 'Silken Diagonal' you immediately get a feel for the Dutch artist's distinctive sound. Warm bass swells, crisp percussion and devilish effects draw your attention in immediately. It's swing heavy groove is perfect for the dance floor and as with all Namatjira tracks there is exceptional musicality. Bubbly melodies bring great character as indistinct vocals trail through the framework and waves of percussion push forward. The flow is exceptional; effortless, smooth and with perfect transitions. The break keeps things simple, building levels of tension through subtle modulation, effects and the vocals, eventually building to a tasteful drop. The companion piece 'Dugong' comes in funkier and more house oriented at its core but as the story unfolds with chord stabs and buzzing sonics it's progressive appeal is undeniable. The broken percussion is a small detail but really gives the groove such a pleasant roll and another well crafted break doesn't hurt either. Two strong productions once again from Namatjira.

The lone interpretation of 'Silken Diagonal' is provided by Eran Aviner who is making his debut on the label. The Belgian artist has a short but meticulous discography with past releases on Hernan Cattaneo’s Sudbeat Music, Guy Mantzur’s Plattenbank Records and most recently Lonya's Asymmetric Recordings. Eran is perhaps best known for his 'Edge' parties which are some of Belgium's foremost electronic music events, playing host to a long line of creative talents including Guy J, Kiasmos, Chymera, Ripperton and more. Widely regarded as a consummate DJ Eran's productions are also making waves with Hernan Cattaneo lending chart, radio and club support. Here he delivers his first production of year turning in a stellar rendition of 'Silken Diagonal'. Taking things into deeper territory Eran's interpretation comes off much more cosmic and meditative, sitting as a perfect complement to Namatjira's bigger original. The main arp and dubby vocals definitely create huge late night appeal and subtle shifts in atmosphere bring timely energy bridges which keep the flow momentous. The main break is crafted to perfection and I would guess this comes from Eran's countless hours spent behind the decks. An air of tension but in such a delicate and precise manner that it's spot on for an educated dance floor. Deadly remix from Eran which is already causing a stir in the underground.

The release concludes with Antrim providing the lone interpretation of 'Dugong'. The Argentinean producer and Or Two Strangers label boss has become a primary artist on Paul Hazendonk's MNL imprint with this being his sixth appearance. Most recently his 'Niger Mulier' single was released alongside a remix from Donatello which enjoyed an extended stay in Beatport's progressive house chart. Now closing the release out in style Antrim delivers a deep and emotive interpretation of 'Dugong'. Led by bright, vibrant melodies and ethereal motifs it’s heart-warming appeal is undeniable. Not lost in all this though is a strong sense of the dance floor with a spacious, finely tailored club groove sitting at the core. A smooth transition into the break keeps the rhythmic flow intact and an expertly executed storyboard brings on the third act with a classy flair. A feel good remix from Antrim and one I expect will sit with you for quite a while. An excellent offering from Paul Hazendonk's MNL imprint once again, likely one of their best this year. Highly recommended.

Buy: btprt.dj/2pM4Upl
Release Date: 22-05-2017

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