- Holmes Ives makes a welcome return to Shinichi with ‘8 Letters’, featuring the lush vocals of Avalon Frost. Remixes from Tommyboy round out this package.
The Original starts with simple beats and percussion as it works up into the first part of the mix which includes dirty electro stabs that bounce along nicely with the beat and tribal drum elements. More electro melodies are introduced as the vocal comes in and plays along with the beat and complements it well. The variety of sounds including the big electro hooks, gives this mix depth and groove. The vocal is not overused and doesn’t try and overtake the production value here. Quality stuff.
Moving onto the Tommyboy remix, it immediately hits you with fierce beats, subtle synth stabs and rasping percussion giving it a progressive touch. The minimal feel of the mix is really noticed when the vocal comes in as it is given the full stage, thought not taking anything away from the production (like the original). Into the middle of the track, a great sustained synth uplifts the track instantly as loads of great sounds play in and out. The climax of the track is continually pushed back and climbs as it hits the main breakdown. Excellent mix all round.
The Tommyboy dub slides a little deeper as it distances itself from the remix. Simple percussion and deep, low synth stabs keep this mix driving through more minimal ground as single elements are continuously added creating a slow build. A grainy sample plays over along with quirky sounds and a great reworking of the vocal which is looped up big time. The mix doesn’t relent in driving home the strong beats but it’s the sustained synths that take centre stage again as they are introduced late. As good as the remix.
This is rather a hot package from Shinichi with all mixes really hitting home in every department. Tommyboy’s remixes are so good, I think they have overshadowed the original just cause of the power and listening enjoyment.