Gabriel Ben – Playa D’en Bossa [Nervous Records]
Posted by Andre on November 9, 2009 under Releases | 
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It’s nice to be taken back to warmer months and this track, which features Ibiza’s most popular beach, does just that on a Canadian mid November afternoon. Gabe has been around the techno scene for what some might consider an eternity, commencing his DJ career in 1987 (I was 5 years old!) and more recently, his production career in 2002 with former musical partner Lance Blaise.
This release, which was released in late September on Nervous Records, the infamous Weiss owned NYC label imprint. Adding to Gabe’s original mix are mixes by Jon Rundell, Steve Mulder, and Jan van Lier.
Read on past the break for my take on each version, some high quality samples and for your chance to vote for your fave!
Gabriel Ben – Playa D’en Bossa (Original Mix)
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The track kicks by slowly building on top of a dry kick, and broken high hats and percs. Just passed the 60 second mark the track’s hypnotic groove develops and I can’t help but start to groove along. Past the 2 minute mark and the track gets even meatier, with what sounds like a trombone (?) wailing away, creating a truly Balearic vibe that transports me to a warm beach, sand beneath my toes and a mojito in hand. This isn’t boring techno, nor is it minimal techno. This type of techno has soul, energy and drive…just the right stuff to get bodies moving as the sun sets…or rises, whichever suits you best. 
Gabriel Ben – Playa D’en Bossa (Jon Rundell Remix)
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It’s been sometime since some Jon Rundell landed on my desk, and needless to say, I’m rather excited to review a remix from none other than Carl Cox’s protege! The track kicks off with a steady, driving beat that has atmospheric claps interspersed throughout to create a dark and edgy techno track. The breakdown brings in a few seconds of silence before introducing the wind melody and the build, though lacking much climax, works perfectly for the tribal infused second half of this remix. This remix manages to balance a dark sound with a crisp top end, creating a track that is sure to go down well on sun drenched boats and dimly lit clubs.
Gabriel Ben – Playa D’en Bossa (Steve Mulder Remix)
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Steve is a staple on the Teggno artist roster and as usual he provides a techno beast that incorporates jazz like elements along with staple minimal tech sounds to create a true fusion of styles. The breakdown in this version is hands down the best of the bunch and it’s inclusion of an 8bit like synth melody just prior to the crash is epic win. Have a listen!
Gabriel Ben – Playa D’en Bossa (Jan van Lier Remix)
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A name that I am sadly not familiar with, Jan hails from California and is slowly causing waves in the Techno scene. His version is a little lighter on the ears, a little more jovial and double footed than the previous offerings. If the last few tracks we’re too dark, hypnotic or driving, I’d give this one a go. It manages to find a lovely medium between funky house and techno.
The Verdict
Though I would never consider myself a techno-head, I can easily peg quality releases when I hear them, and this one is worth seeking out. A few great remixes and tons of originality define these 4 tracks, so be sure to give them each some time before moving on. My favorite has to be Jon’s remix.
Score: 7/10
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