ASTR021

Artist: Re-Type, Luke Coulson
Title: Drowning
Remixer: Axel Haube
Release Date: 25 November 2022

Supported by: Maceo Plex, Adriatique, Guy Gerber, Fideles, Korolova, 8Kays, Henri Bergmann. Grigoré, Maxim Lany, Philipp Straub, ao.

Astral Records rounds out the month of November by welcoming Re-Type to the label for their debut EP. Based in Belgium and made up of Pieter and Lucas, the Re-Type duo first emerged in 2021 with a release via Found Frequencies. Finding a nice balance between progressive and melodic house and techno, 'Reasons' firmly established Re-Type as a new duo to watch. Continuing on an upwards trajectory, Re-Type continues to build on their creative synergy with their Astral Records debut 'Drowning', alongside a remix from Axel Haube.

Beginning with title selection 'Drowning' Re-Type calls upon the vocal talents of Luke Coulson. This multi-genre artist has a complementary attitude that channels his inimitable ability to inject an already profound track with authentic soul. A precious talent that has already seen him collaborate with some of the world's finest labels such as Days Like Nights and This Never Happened. Smooth and mysterious from the outset, its warm low end and undulating rhythms provide hip swinging drive, while flickering percussion and haunting atmospheres fill in the framework. Luke's vocals emerge as the first act progresses, blanketing the pulsating groove with goosebump worthy moments, before astral stabs and emotive chord changes provide a bridge into the main break. Cavernous and calm, the centerpiece melts down allowing the vocal to breathe with its hopeful qualities stealing the air, before an understated drop sparks a smooth and emotive finale. The companion piece 'Endless' follows with an equally impressive display of craftsmanship. Its muscular groove, striking percussion and hopeful sensibility set the stage for quirky arps to emerge leading into the break. Opening up further, the interlude adds depth as clustered phrasing and blustery sonics spearhead a charged drop and trance-inducing final act.

Rounding out the release with the lone interpretation of 'Drowning' is Axel Haube who makes his label debut. Well established as a producer and DJ for over a decade, Belgian artist Axel Haube has showcased his music via Infinite Depth, Running Clouds and Watergate Records, while performing on some of the world's premiere stages in Tomorrowland, Extrema Outdoor, Paradise City Festival and more. Now making his Astral Records debut, Axel dials in a strong rendition of 'Drowning'. Drawing on the sensibilities of the original, the Belgian artist reworks the foundation with punchier kicks and tighter grooves. Resonating perfectly against the thunderous backbone are enlightening vocal phrases, striking at opportune moments, while crunchy sonics provide additional colour onwards to a heartfelt break and thrilling finale. A heady interpretation from Axel to cap off an excellent release for Astral Records, one where Re-Type and Axel Haube make impressive label debuts.