Reviewed: Underset “Berlin”

Quality over quantity. That’s been the focus of Hope Recordings’ head of A&R, Nick Warren in 2011. This year, the label celebrated its 100th release in fine form with Warren’s own driving, euphoric “Buenos Aires.” Other highlights include James Zabiela’s genre-bending opus “Blame” and Tom Glass’s dazzling, emotive album Simple Stories for Complicated People.

Enter Russia-based producer Underset. His “Berlin” track originally featured on Warren’s Balance 018 mix compilation back in May. Now it gets a proper release on Hope Recordings accompanied by remixes by Waifs & Strays and Radiola.

“Berlin” is melancholic, reflective, and calm. The piece utilizes a less-is-more approach to create a soothing sonic bath. The track opens with a lonely synth arpeggio and is quickly accompanied by warm pads, iridescent keyboard flourishes, and skittery vocal touches. It will become the soundtrack to many late night drives.

Both remixes are innovative and compelling yet respectful of the original. The Waifs & Strays mix builds deep house percussive elements and a gravelly bassline around the arpeggio. The duo delivers an instrumental mix as well as a version which incorporates ‘preacher man’ vocals. It works.

The Radiola remix connects to the original mix seamlessly and feels like a reprise. The production is immaculate and precise. A variety of crisply textured percussive elements bounce off the groove beautifully.

Hope Recordings delivers once again. “Berlin” is easily one of EDM’s finest moments this year. Quality over quantity indeed. Sometimes less really is more.

“Berlin” will be released on December 12, 2011. In the meantime, check out the official video here: