I easily remember Waterspark also known as Daniel Costache's first single "Fairway" which was released on Ask4 and blessed with remixes from the likes of Mat Zo and Digitalis. I also remember that as being a fairly decent single, which then only makes me even more excited about reviewing his new tune "Lego", currently loaded in my trusty winamp player. The single will be released next week on Nu-Depth Recordings and they have found a few well-known players to remix the track. First up is one of the most popular names in trance, known for his huge releases on Perceptive Recordings, Andy Blueman. Further more this single contains a remix from rising star and Discover Records signed, Gary Maguire and last but not least Dave Horne who recently had his debut on Nu-Depth Digital.
1. Original Mix
2. Andy Blueman Remix
3. Gary Maguire Remix
4. Dave Horne Remix
Review
The original mix begins with a very dark and mysterious intro that transends into some lush trance stabs. This is all before the bassline sets in followed by a hard kick and the additional usual percussive sounds on top. Daniel keeps on adding melodic layers until the obligatory breakdown enters. I am loving the soft padded and laidback atmosphere the subtle bass and the surrounding melodies which the breakdown holds. The track gets another boost but there is not an energetic drop or huge climax - the beauty is all in the break here. The Andy Blueman remix is much more energetic but also takes a few light footsteps before taking off. This by filtering the percussion and using some background layers. Andy really understands how to lift the track to a much more exciting level transforming it into a proper 'dance' tune. It does however not have such an elegant finish as the original. Sometimes less is more. Next off is the Gary Maguire remix which does not start off as beautifully as either the blueman remix or the original, but his banging and vibrating bass is something to write home about. Also the way that this heavy bass is working with Gary's own reworked version of the melody is really exceptional. Staying true to the melody but still lifting the track and injecting that climax that the original was missing. I amm loving the way the Dave Horne remix made space for the clap and additional percussion samples, by not making it clash with the bass notes. I am a big fan of drums and percussive sounds but these days they do not get too much attention in trance productions. Thankfully they had just a little bit of attention in this remix. This remix is a deeper interpretation with a lot of focus on the melody and I must say it is quite well put together.
Verdict
Most importantly the original has some good qualities and great ideas. It has without a doubt created a foundation for these remixers to work with. I was instantly captivated by the Gary Maguires remix; It might not be as aggressive and fast paced as the Andy Blueman remix but for me it just holds so much more energy and dancefloor potential. I am also a fan of Dave Horne's progressive treatment which is quite brilliant.
Out next week!
