- The deep and easygoing sound of the Swiss strikes again with this crowdpleasing 12-inch from Crowdpleaser & Ly Sander. The duo have worked before on Mental Groove and Deeply Rooted House, but come together for one of the deep house revival's leading lights, Drumpoet Community. Coming after the throwback bonanza that was Cavalier's Ride 'Em, though, "Walking Home" is a welcome change of pace.
The track looks backward, alright, but way back in this case. The light drum track is accompanied by some finger-picked guitar, untrained vocals and (eventually) what sounds like a flute. It ain't the normal state of affairs. But, then again, this duo rarely settles for anything less. The track is a stunner—immediately identifiable, groovy enough to work on the floor and strong enough to work at home. That Kalabrese turns in a typically solid rework that pumps up the kick, adds some analogue quirk and doesn't sacrifice the delicate vibe is icing on the cake.
In fact, the only reason not to pick this up might just be the second track from Crowdpleaser & Ly Sander here. "XYZ" is a nice enough set builder that increases its intensity throughout. But it's the sound of the duo putting a square peg in a round hole: Leaning on dance music tropes has always been the appeal—if only to see how upend them. Here, though, it consists of squeak and bubble signifying nothing. It's a nice track to switch gears in a set, but it's also been done better.
Tracklist A1 Walking Home
A2 XYZ
B1 Walking Home (Kalabrese Remix)
B2 Walking Home (Bonus Beats)