Ad Brown – Magnetize [Fris!]

Posted by Andre on July 8, 2009 under Releases | Read the First Comment | 46 views

“ A mirrored contrast between light and dark ”
- Andre

8/10

zappp

Considering some of the review titles we’ve posted, this one is ridiculously short! As a sublabel of Black Hole Recordings, and a young one at that, it has already left a lasting impression on me. Though I’m not sure if it’s the label itself or Mr. Brown himself, seeing as he’s now been featured at least 4 times on the label!

This latest effort, dubbed ‘Magnetize‘, features some downright filthy bass grooves, acid inspired synth builds and a hauntingly dark vocal sample that is just the bee’s knees! Along with Adam’s original mix is a Techno Prisoners remix that creates an even more techno driven hypnotic groove.

Read on past the break for my take on both versions, some high quality samples and for your chance to cast your vote!

Ad Brown – Magnetize (Original Mix)

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With his typical hard edge and growling bassline, Ad introduces the track in a subtle yet arrogant manner all the while causing my body to start to move along. With a quick build from the 50 to 60 second mark we’re off to the races and from here on in, there’s simply no turning back. Some have called Adam’s style Electro House, but I certainly beg to differ. This is an evolved sound that manages to take the best of Carl Cox’s style and combines it with that of some of the progressive pioneers like Diggers and Nick Warren. Groovy, haunting and hypnotic…this track simply imbeds itself in your brain and refuses to leave.

Ad Brown – Magnetize (Techno Prisoners Remix)

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Searching on Discogs for the remixers yielded but one result, a lonely release back in 1988. Something tells me this isn’t the same Techno Prisoners. From the start this version is decidedly deeper in tone, with a slight penchant for what some might consider tech-house, or minimal techno. As I’m listening to this version I can’t help but feel that it mirrors Ad’s ‘I Just Do‘ that was released late in 2008 on Fris! Is Techno Prisoners in effect actually Adam in disguise? Me thinks so…

The breakdown is lush and dark, creating a stark contrast between the elements, effectively pushing along much like two magnetized north poles would.

The Verdict

Stellar, top to bottom, start to finish….these two tracks are in a class of their own! My favorite? Eeek, tough call! I guess I’ll have to pick the Original, but both are rather swell.

Score: 8/10

South or North....which one Magnetized you?

Ad Brown - Magnetize

Ad Brown - Magnetize (Techno Prisoners Remix)

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