- Fortunato & Montresor’s stunning “Imagine” first got released on brilliant German label, Elektrolux in 1997. It appeared on John Digweed’s first Global Underground release from Sydney, and he loved it so much so that 6 years later, it sees a re-release on his own Bedrock records. It also comes equipped with a remix from the Bedrock signed Belgian producer, Pole Folder. We can see already, that this release is already onto something ridiculously good.
The Original Imagination 1 mix (the one Digweed used for his Sydney mix) is on the A side. It begins with luscious synths as the filtered vocals of Jedra Dayl then fill the air. Smooth drums then enter the foray as Jedra’s gorgeous vocals then lose the effects and are given the proper treatment it deserves. The track maintains a lovely pace, as a delayed piano line and effects filter in and out of the track. It may be 6 years old but this track hasn’t aged one single bit, still as beautifully constructed and arranged as it was those years ago.
Still on the A side is the Radio Edit. This mix is quite short in length (under 4 minutes) and it takes a different approach with a more breaky and quirky feel to it. The vocals thankfully are still there with a little extra vocal hum that doesn’t appear in the previous mix. Subtle strings in the background float about, and nice little effects are all present. There is a smooth little breakdown deep into the track that also sees a little appearance of a lovely little melody to conclude the track. It featured on the original release, and it’s a great addition to this re-release.
On the flip is the highly anticipated Pole Folder mix. Benoit has always been a master of the atmospheric, and this remix yet again tickles the emotional taste buds. A smooth welcoming opens the mix with little vocal snippets and a subtle stabbing synth taken from the original. The hats and kick slowly find their way into the mix which then leads to the brilliant string patterns, which is a trademark of Benoit’s productions. The patterns take control and gain levels, the drums merge beautifully, and the mix finds its mark without ever going too much over the top. The flow is just brilliant. The vocals are used sparingly and are placed very well complimenting its surroundings. It’s definitely one of Benoit’s finest moments, and it completes a must buy release for Bedrock.
Without the Pole Folder mix, this re-release would have been worth a purchase. Both original mixes are timeless works of musical genius. The bonus on the flip just reassures that Bedrock have released a gem here, and it mustn’t be overlooked.