- Classic sounds featuring one of house music's most important vocalists.
- Everyone that takes house music seriously should be familiar with Robert Owens. After meeting Larry Heard in 1985 they formed Fingers Inc. and would go on to help shape the course of house music. Owens is undeniably one of the genre's most recognizable voices, and you could even argue he set the standard for electronic music vocalists. 30 years later, Berlin-based (by way of Belgium) artist Gratts would meet Owens in the streets of Kreuzberg, eventually collaborating on the Brighter Future EP.
It's not everyday that artists get the chance to work with their musical heroes. Even then, it can lead to stale, uninspiring imitations of great works, a trap that Gratts manages to avoid. Although these tracks are nostalgic and retro, they're also genuinely refreshing. On the original mix, vintage tones and a simple beat give off a polished '80s vibe. A saxophone comes in around three-quarter in, a nice surprise that brings a touch of jazz.
If the A-side is more suited for opening sets or late night wind-downs, the B-side was made for peak time. Inner Balance label head Jorge Caiado delivers a pumping effort reminiscent of pre-'00s major label remixes, while the "New Vision Dub" goes into deeper territory with a Reese bassline, hand drums and a smattering of percussion sounds beyond the standard drum machine samples. Both have more of a darker NYC '90s palette than the Golden Age Chicago feel of the original. Owens' voice is the star of the show on all versions, with lyrics that deliver an uplifting, hopeful message for these constantlytrying times.
Tracklist01. Brighter Future
02. Brighter Future (Jorge Caiado Remix)
03. Brighter Future (New Vision Dub)