- Up next on Hooj is Drunken Monkey with ’Gratification’. Following from the very impressive RJ release, number 135 in the Hooj discography consists of some smooth solid house music, with a killer main melodic riff that will hook you from the word go.
Disc One
On the a-side is Precinct’s Dharma Dub. The track begins with some chunky drums and a deep and subtle baseline that slowly builds in the early stages. A bouncy baseline soon enters the fray giving the track a great flow that seems to increase with intensity. The main melodic riffs soon make their presence as the track also builds again with another layer of deep baseline rumbles as well as wailing vocals that ride over the production. The track takes a momentary break deep in that sees the main melody make another appearance, then leaving the production to drive its way to the conclusion. A very good beginning to this release.
On the flip is the Instant Gratification Mix. This mix starts with the beautiful main melodic guitar riffs and soothing vocal of Freakboysoul. The beginning of this track is delightful as beats come in and out, all while sounds flow smoothly in great harmony. A deep and cluttered baseline is then slowly introduced which gives the track that extra oomph. The guitar melodies soon gain intensity midway into the track, a stage of the production that soon welcomes the finale where all the sounds of the guitar, vocals, baselines, and drums merge in true style. A delightful mix.
Disc Two
Firstly on the second disc is the Saul O’Sage House Mix. From the word go the kick makes a strong impact while the acoustic elements juggle around the production. The track makes great use of a droning sound effect that rides the drums well and also sees the melody and vocals work in great unity. A killer baseline is introduced midway into the track that really gives this production that extra level. A subtle high pitched string pattern also features late in. Another great remix.
On the b-side is Hawke’s Blue Resurrection Mix. Beautiful soothing strings begin the production with a solid 4/4 beat pattern. The vocal gets a great working as the baseline in this remix is just as devastating as other mixes. The track builds in delicious style as the main melody is introduced midway in, and then the vocal makes another impact. The track builds and builds while elements are introduced at will. This quite simply is another stroke of genius by Gavin Hardkiss, the master veteran in production.
Another very impressive release from the lads at Hooj. It is safe to say that all 4 mixes are very impressive, and it is especially good to see classic producer, Gavin Hardkiss, still at his impeccable best.