Recommended Listening

DJ Meme & Double Dee - Everything (Micky More & Andy Tee Remix)[Groove Culture]

Hot on the heels of the original release three months ago, label bosses Micky More & Andy Tee drop their own interpretation of "Everything". The remix is respectful to DJ Meme's original but offers up a more stripped back alternative. The funk level is cranked up considerably courtesy of a remarkable new bassline while the mellow strings soothe the soul. Available on promo right now with a full release scheduled for 3rd September. Essential!

Recommended Listening

The Brothers Johnson - Stomp [DJ Meme Definitive Remix] [Bandcamp]

A track that needs no introduction whatsoever; "Stomp" was originally released in 1980 with the legendary Rod Temperton & Quincy Jones in the credits. Quite simply, it's a floor filler that has endured for more than for forty years and is as effective now as it was back then. Brazil's DJ Meme has worked his magic on a several classics over the years, tastefully extending and recreating them with the appropriate level of respect paid to the original compositions. Expect an epic intro plus clever highlighting and augmenting of many of the original elements (the strings and bass receive particular attention). This is the most essential purchase of the week for me and is already lined up to make an appearance in next week's FR radio show. Available on Bandcamp right now!

Recommended Listening

Mannix & VillaLife ft Andre Espeut - Mama Used To Say [Dafia Records]

Today's pick finds Mannix revisiting the 1981 soul-pop crossover by Junior Giscombe (a track which scaled the heights of the top ten in the UK and top 30 in the US). On vocals, the prolific Andre Espeut has been enlisted and delivers a soul drenched performance that captures the essence of the original nicely without ever sounding too similar. In addition to the rather funky version from Mannix & VillaLife there's a slightly smoother, mellower version from DJ Meme which also hits the spot. Forty years on it seems that now is the right time to bring "Mama Used To Say" up to date and these are certainly the right guys to do it. Very Tasty!

Flashback

Underground Ministries ft Kenny Bobien - I Shall Not Be Moved [Flatline Records]

Back to the heady days of the late 90s, 1999 to be precise and a slice of uplifting gospel house music. Between the bounding keys and Kenny Bobien's falsetto delivery this is guaranteed to get your feet moving and hands in the air. The track made a reappearance on Soulfuric 8 years later with further mixes from DJ Meme and Brian Tappert both of which also delivered big time on the right floors but I've always had a soft spot for the original release.

Reviewed by Dean Serafini

Track Review

DJ Meme ft Jay Sebag - Fall To Raise Up [Diridim]

DJ Meme is a name that needs no introduction to anyone who counts themself as a fan of house music. His Philly style grooves and remakes of some truly classic tracks always have the desired effect on the dance floor. This latest release on David Morales' Diridim imprint is a significant departure from that signature sound with a deep throbbing bass groove and an infectious synthesized whistling hook. Those elements combine with the striking sounds of the synths to make sure those feet are well and truly moving. The enticing vocals are delivered by Jay Sebag who is no stranger to the scene having previously worked with, anong others, Martin Solveig & Yass. Eric Kupper's remix is a atmospheric affair with analog bass and deep synths creating the kind of vibe you lose yourself within as the night hits reaches its peak. Some tracks are easier to describe than others and this, despite its allure, is tricky to put into words. It's almost how I imagine the vibe at NYC's Red Zone would sound if you could transport the people and venue to the present day. Due for release on 28th September. Full details and audio samples to follow just as soon as they're available.

Reviewed by Dean Serafini