- Michael Thomas, codename Blackwatch is a quiet name that has built a strong following with many electronic DJs across the sphere. From his early influences in UK and Detroit underground sounds of techno and house, to the dark synths of Depeche Mode and Primal Scream, Thomas is once again exploring new sounds and textures with some assistance from the SOG one: Greed; and when there is Greed, there is the seductive vocal of Lesley not too far behind. Thomas’ professional career is fast becoming one of the top producers worldwide as he continues to layer sounds. His new release “Gentle Rain” under Release Records forges to build on the foundation that keeps getting brighter with every outing.
Hitting you first is Blackwatch’s own “Jacked Hi Mix.” I like the title as it suits the mix well. To bluntly describe it; it feels like Blackwatch jacks you up Matrix style as your senses are brought up above in the night stars. A deep atmospheric breakbeat that utilizes minimum drum taps and warped-out guitar riffs that can be quite funky in my opinion. It works out as it’s not deeply funky, yet not it gives the track a much needed lift from the seriousness of the atmospheric sounds that build the track. After listening to Greed’s “Strange World” again, I felt that Lesley’s voice couldn’t be trippier – and it isn’t, instead it’s sexier. The hypnotic groove is sinful as Lesley drops all those suggestive vocals that everyone has come to follow. Every word that comes out of Lesley’s voice draws you deeper inside the song. Very magnetic and spellbinding, I would luv to hear a full-blown vocal mix. The A-side displays the talent and tight production work that Blackwatch has build over the years.
Get ready cos your about to head for a trip with Grayarea’s “Dismembered Mix” on the flip. I’m sure everyone here knows of the name Grayarea. This Chicago team’s progressive style of breaks has won the hearts of many American and International DJs since their first self-titled single. After finally getting a listen to their rework off the reprise of Bedrock’s Emerald, I couldn’t wait to hear how this one would get off. Maybe something melodic, maybe something ruff, or maybe something entirely different and unexpected. Whatever the case, I couldn’t wait for the styli to hit the first note. After a listen, I can conclude that this is a ridiculous fusion of funky-tech beats and breaks in a glossy progressive mind-state. A punishing assault of the senses that’s poured over warm melodies. Created to demolish dancefloors and dancefloors only, this must be in your record bag.
With hits like “Northsky” and “Word Unspoken,” “Gentle Rain” maintains all the rich production work that has come before it. This release will see massive support with everyone. A hyped up track for quite some time now, and it still hasn’t gotten the release just yet. Hopefully, the official release will be released sooner than later as this is one that should not be missed because of delays or excuses.