Contraire / Ultraviolet
By: Neonlight
Label:
Written by: Curtis Moldrich
Rating: 8/10
Although their first release on the label was a collaboration with the late Hedj, this release represents their debut solo single on Bad Taste Recordings.
Home to Blokhe4d, the project of Mick Vegas of Bad Company and Jonas Uman, the Bad Taste Recordings imprint has a reputation for releasing hot new talent, as well as energetic, unique music. With the like's of Loki and Aeph already on board, Neonlight have a lot to live up to.
The first track Contraire kicks off proceedings. Beginning with a synth which transports the listener to the 80's, this track immediately has a unique feel. Things escalate and the listener is presented with a catchy hook. More reminiscent of a jazz number, this unique hook gives a quirky vibe to the track, which is maintained throughout. There is energetic percussion and bass, but they play second fiddle to the unique theme and 80's synths. A truly unique track, it also features a breakdown midway though that would be more associated with that of a live jazz band. However, instead of feeling like a tacky addition, it sits right at home with the rest of the track. More stylish than anything, Contraire is a slick opener from the German producers.
Ultraviolet takes things up a notch or ten. Beginning with an all encompassing synth that stretches over the sound scape, this track is on a far moodier vibe. Unnervingly slow eastern sounding percussion cranks up the anticipation, whilst high synth comes to the fore, increasing the urgency. The build up of this track is also another highlight. In an attempt to jack levels of anticipation to an all time high, a high pitched siren comes to the fore, while drumbeat patterns jitter in the foreground. The main body of the track is a high-paced affair, with a dominate synth pushing the track forward, while the drums add to the chaos. It's more straight forward in some ways then Contraire, but due to its energetic nature, it's likely to be this track that does the business in clubs.
By includuing the stylish Contraire along with the rowdy Ultraviolet, Bad Taste cover all bases here. A solid debut from Neonlight, this release gives lovers of unique drum and bass another two tracks to use, and underlines the german duo as a worthy addition to the roster.
