- There's a dreamlike optimism all over house music these days. Super Tuff Records' debut release, a four-track compilation of powerful dance floor cuts, channels this with its own distinctive flair. The EP has a tendency towards big, tender samples that are offset by muscular drum machines. The high point is "Reel Recognize Reel," by the Brooklyn-based label's founder, M. Vaughan. With an irresistible swing in the hi-hats and a kick drum that will steamroll dance floors, even the intro is exciting. Add an evocative layer of cosmic disco samples and a killer bassline and you've got a powerful party starter.
The other highlight is "Offering," by DJ Aakmael, a Richmond, Virginia-based producer whose discography dates back almost 15 years. The drum programming has a wonderfully soft touch, and its hypnotic acid synths are reminiscent of Larry Heard's unforgettable comeback EP from last year. Moony Me's "Taurora" makes use of the same palette, though with a more urgent rhythm. This time, the acid line has a bite. Jesse Bru's contribution, "Futaki," harnesses the classic trope of building a track around a spoken-word monologue, and does it well. It's friendly, danceable and well executed, with an emotional tint that pulls at the heartstrings without feeling overly sentimental.
TracklistA1 Jesse Bru - Futaki
A2 DJ Aakmael - Offering
B1 M. Vaughan - Reel Recognize Reel
B2 Moony Me - Taurora