It has been a while! In the last months I’ve been very busy with some other project and, since recaps are taking a lot of efforts, I’ve stopped the series. However, today I’m excited to be back with a new mini-recap to talk about some of the notable tracks of the week and touch on some trends that have developed over the course of 2020.

Jaxx & Vega vs. R3SPAWN – Kalinka
17/100

Of course we couldn’t go without covering this producer orgy right here. If you had shown me this as Ivan Larionov – Kalinka (ID Bootleg) I would have instantly said it was by Jaxx & Vega and taken it for what it was. But no, because this is Smash the House and they have to make sure that all of their artists are on all of their main releases. Also, why is Richie Loop singing on a Russian song? I mean I love the vocals, but the original Kalinka has so much character to it I don’t understand why they wouldn’t play into that more with this one. Basically it seems like this is “Carnival” all over again where the entire STH family jumped in without adding anything at all. It’s just an absolute shame that the real talents behind this track will hardly get any credit for this one, Jaxx & Vega, R3SPAWN, and Richie Loop. Not that the song itself is much to be proud of when you loop a 2 measure melody for an entire track.

GIANTS – Venom
73/100

In the underground big room scene, GIANTS is one of those names that doesn’t make a lot of noise, they just sort of come along, drop a gem, and go right along with their lives. Here with their first original solo since their self-release, “Infinity,” GIANTS has once again brought a unique, dark atmosphere that lends itself to a fascinating listening experience. More firmly on the trance side of the spectrum, “Venom” strikes an ominous tone with some unique electro vibes in the only break. The second drop is where things get a little weird and the leads feel overpowered by the bass and one shot. Despite this, the track is still a nice comeback for the Croatian duo. Looking forward to seeing what else they have lined up!

Steve Aoki – GIRL (feat. AGNEZ MO & Desiigner) [Deorro & Dave Mak Remix]
79/100

First off, say what you will about Steve Aoki but he certainly knew how to put together a remix album. The names, true talents, and diversity he brought to this deserves to be recognized and commended as it is truly an impressive feat. While I would love to talk about the remixes from Dash Berlin, Armin Van Buuren, SWACQ, R3HAB, Quix, Riot Ten, Bear Grillz, Quintino, Curbi, MOTi, Tisoki, or the disappointing remix by TV Noise, but instead I want to focus on the new face who was in the mix – Dave Mak with Deorro and their take on GIRL.You may have seen their ID floating around SoundCloud but this release definitely caught me by surprise. It’s a nice blend of Dave Mak’s unique big room and Deorro’s iconic bounce style. Unfortunately the drop melodies aren’t the most original or memorable but they are teeming with energy. It’s nice to see Dave Mak add his special sauce and synths to keep the energy going in the breakdowns over AGNEZ MO’s vocals. We’ll always want for more, but this is an excellent step in Dave’s career and a standout track in a strong remix album.

Antheros – Remember
82/100

While the hype over electro groove (otherwise known as “STMPD Style”) has appropriately faded down, Antheros has really made his mark and own signature sounds which has garnered him a few remix contest victories as well as official remix deals. This latest one on MOTi’s imprint, Zero Cool is another stunning addition to his discography while building on the vocal style drops from his remixes of “Too Good” and “Lost On You.” Am certainly not a fan of the Steff Da Campo arps and flourishes in the breakdowns while do pale a bit in comparison to the explosive drops. Nevertheless, as a whole it’s another gem from the Chilean producer.

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