This Guy Ben – Neptuna [Polyptych]

Polyptych rounds out the month of October by welcoming This Guy Ben to the label for his debut EP. Based in Jersey, Channel Islands, This Guy Ben has enjoyed a steady rise since first emerging almost a decade ago. From early beginnings of tech house and techno, The St Helier resident has found stronger footing of late within the progressive side of house. Releases via Progressive Vibes Light, Second Nature, Sky Top and his own A 1 Track Mind imprint sit as discography standouts, in turn showcasing his penchant for warm grooves and emotive narratives. With a lighter 2023 schedule in progress, This Guy Ben comes off an impressive EP for Neostatics Sounds for his much anticipated Polyptych debut 'Neptuna', alongside a remix from Gai Barone.

Selection one ‘Neptuna’ lands with a resounding thump, as tight punchy grooves and flashing percussive arrangements make for a smooth hip swinging energy. Vocal overlays, orbiting effects and balmy refrains advance the narrative, keeping rhythm locked while energy continues to flow into the break. Anticipation and emotion peak here, with an array of heartfelt themes cleverly coaxing in a colourful amalgamation of sound, as gentle waves and sweeping sonics unite in a vortex of bucolic beauty, before the groove re-engages for an uplifting finale.

The companion piece 'Five From Fargo' continues the emotional lean of the EP, while picking up the tempo just a touch. Muscular beats and chunky bass stabs provide a robust foundation, while timely swells and clustered metallics deliver a perfect balance of texture and character across the first act. Melting down to a sizzling calm, the main break peaks anticipation with percolating percussion eventually giving way to a striking melodic lead. Big bold and magnificent, it instantly elevates mood and sets the course for a thumping drop and suitably exhilarating finale.

The lone interpretation of 'Neptuna' is provided by Gai Barone who makes his label debut. The renowned musician and Italian native has long been one of the industry's most fascinating producers. An unrivalled quest for the creation of something uniquely memorable and deeply moving has fuelled his sonic journey. As a true craftsman, it is this drive for excellence that makes each one of Gai’s studio creations met with much anticipation. Afterglow, Bedrock, Lost & Found, Renaissance and his own Patternized Recordings imprint have been landing spots for some of his most notable work, while progressive music trendsetters such as Guy J, Hernan Cattaneo, Nick Warren and more have been steadfast supporters along the way. 2023 has seen Gai to continue to operate at a creative peak with projects for Einmusika and The Soundgarden. Now, fresh off a single for Global Underground, Gai returns to his remixing ways, making his Polyptych debut with a stellar take on 'Neptuna'. Opting for a less melodic approach, Gai takes straight aim at the darker dancefloors out there, as parts get chopped up and reprocessed for a heady, slow burning drawl; one which carefully builds tension through a percolating acid-like underbelly, and a cavernous, swirling, effects-laden break that spearheads a thumping peak time finale to round out the release in grand fashion. Highly recommended.

Buy: https://shorturl.at/jFU13

Release Date: 20-10-2023

Release Promo: http://releasepromo.com

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