Valhalla from Aurora by Zone+, Bachir Salloum

The latest release from Madloch's Sound Avenue imprint welcomes Zone+ & Bachir Salloum to the label for a new EP. Bahrain born and now based in Dubai, Zone + aka Zeyad Mohsen has firmly established himself in the deep house underground with releases on All Day I Dream, Akbal Music, Underyourskin and Sol Selectas. Beirut native Bachir Salloum has followed a more progressive minded path in his musical journey with a short but tidy discography featuring releases on Guy Mantzur's Plattenbank Records and Michael A's Genesis Music. As prolific DJs, they both have shared the stage with a long line of top international talents, including Hernan Cattaneo, Nick Warren, Matthew Dekay, Audiofly, Agents of Time and YokoO. Now coming together for their first studio collaborations Zone+ and Bachir unveil their much anticipated ‘Aurora' EP alongside a remix from Pablo Bolivar.

The EP's title selection finds the duo crafting a deep and sultry creation which sets the tone for the entire collection. Meticulously produced, the piece begins with warm punchy beats, tribal infused drums and a solemn atmospheric backdrop. Beautiful and haunting in equal measure, it's a spiritual nine minute journey, showcasing delicate motifs yet pulsating with anticipation, delivering a fluid cadence and chromatic warmth.

The lone interpretation of ‘Aurora' is provided by Pablo Bolivar who is making his first appearance on Sound Avenue. The Spanish artist and Seven Villas label boss has been a fixture of the deep house underground for over a decade. Revered for his sultry grooves and organic design Pablo has risen to new heights in 2017. Releases on Akbal Music, Culprit, Moodmusic and Luca Bacchetti's Endless imprint have highlighted what is perhaps the strongest year of the Spaniard's career. Now making his much anticipated Sound Avenue debut Pablo provides a stunning interpretation of ‘Aurora'. Following an enchanting beginning, rich tones add rhythmic flair as rising atmospherics and sonic artefacts carry tension through a heightened second act. It proves to be the perfect prelude for Pablo to add one final masterstroke as quirky symphonics deliver an esoteric finale. Unique and inspired work from Pablo.

The story continues with ‘Anbara'; a deeper, funkier creation which sits as lovely complement to ‘Aurora'. Anchored by chunky slabs of bass, it's rugged appeal is undeniable. Celestial pads lift the mood as the first act evolves before wispy effects and diffused sonics initiate the main break. Dramatic and pensive, the two minute interlude unlocks the spiritual core of the piece before a smooth transfer of energy foreshadows a glowing finale.

The release concludes with ‘Valhalla' which sits as the most progressive minded of the three. On a backbone of free flowing bass comes indistinct voices, soft synth swells and evolving percussive arrangements. It's subtle shades and tones combined with a vibrant framework make for a charming late night vibe, leaving you wanting to hear more as the EP comes to a compelling conclusion.

Pr by Mitch Alexander ( www.releasepromo.com )
Mastered by Travis MacDonald (www.travismacdonaldmastering.com )

Founded in 2011 by Belgian DJ and producer Madloch, Sound Avenue is an electronic music label that stands for quality and originality. Borderless in vision, the Belgian imprint has forged a path to multiple musical dimensions. Blurring the boundaries between house and techno, it’s a platform for anyone with an open mind and ears.

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