London label Arcko Digital’s new release ‘Rock Music’ is a refreshingly cool beat driven forward with its unforgiving bass line and vivid drum loops. All three tracks in the release have something unique to offer whilst still maintaining the key characteristics that make ‘Rock Music’ so appealing.
First track in the release by Spanish DJ Cor Caroli is the original ‘Rock Music’. Opening with a ridiculously feel-good combination of drums and bass, this track is addictive from the very first buzz we get from the bass. (In this case, a lethal bass) One of those which easily replay in your head for days on end. The emphasis in the track is focused towards this indulgent lower end of the sound spectrum. The drum loop Cor Caroli use here goes back to 90’s style house with its intense, real sounding drums, blending in almost too well with that sinister bass line resulting in exotic, deeply appealing vibes; you just can’t not feel good when listening to this beat which shows off Caroli’s faultless production work.
The craftwork of the producer doesn’t end here. Another example of his flawless style is the bold use of synths which, I assume, are used to create a “live crowd” effect, working perfectly giving the track that little bit of extra life making it thrive, creeping its way in just after those verses of spoken word, which again work perfectly for the piece. This well incorporated mixture of synths is the most expert practise of creativity I have heard in a track of this genre.
The second track on the release is a remix of ‘Rock Music’ from Arcko Digital founder Dmarco. Much like the original, on his rework the bass takes full focus grabbing our attention with the quirky synth bass line we hear throughout. Complimenting this we have a lot more generally upbeat synths and whilst maintaining the thrilling vocal repetitions in the track, Dmarco also depicts a fresher vibe by adding short bursts of vocal. The overall vibe of this track is a lot more energetic, something you should avoid if you don’t want to be tempted to dance! The kick in the track has a real punch to it, bouncing back after every beat with an enthusiasm rendered undeniably from Dmarco’s distinct production work.
Third track, James the Cat’s remix, starts off surprisingly but delightfully off par with its brother records in this release from Arcko Digital. Eclipsing the original characteristics of ‘Rock Music’ with a whole new style we are given a repetitive weedy synth line and on-going pad synth. The track peaks when we are unexpectedly delved into a euphoric world of vocal effects, synth builds and flawless retro high-end synth pads. This really disco-type pad sound that rests comfortably over the track throughout reaches out in this remix as the icing on the cake, descending every so often to give James The Cat’s remix that hint of individuality it craves.
Out now, take a listen to the original cut of ‘Rock Music’ below and pick up your own copy here.
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