Darin Epsilon – Valencia

Label: Perspectives DigitalScore: 9/10

Los Angeles-based progressive DJ and producer Darin Epsilon delivers his most introspective and moving work to date in the form of “Valencia” on his Perspectives Digital label. Epsilon’s previous releases on labels like Sudbeat and Mesmeric have been more aggressive while “Valencia” reveals a newfound musicality and vulnerability. The trickling melodic lead- reminiscent of Sasha’s Airdrawndagger album, wraps itself around a metallic guitar texture beautifully amidst crashing waves of static percussive elements until a sublime flute voice ultimately bursts through in the break.

Jamie Stevens makes a welcomed return to the label following his booming rework of Antix– “Like Ships in the Night.” Here, his dazzling, pixelated treatment serves as a refreshing counterpoint to the meandering original with its layers of swirling arpeggios and warped wails that heighten the break into an electrifying dancefloor moment.

Dousk’s remix- his second for the Perspectives Digital imprint- is a darker, haunting exploration.  It possesses a dub sensibility as the bassline is super-sized, vocal elements are injected and only minimal guitar strums and synth flourishes from Epsilon’s original shine through.  “Valencia” boasts a dynamic package suited for a variety of moods and settings as Perspective Digital and Epsilon are both enjoying a breakout year.