• UKG meets dance-pop
• Appealing vocal hooks
• Dreamy and energetic

At this point, it is well-established that Tiesto doesn’t hesitate to switch genres; not often, the Dutch icon has frequently come up with memorable tracks when transitioning between styles. “Waterslides,” his latest venture with the UK trio Rudimental and vocalist Absolutely is surprisingly good— a polished dance-pop tune with UK Garage at its core.

Adopting a high release rate, Tiesto has been silently outputting remixes and singles that keep his towering stature in EDM and commercial music growing; even earning a spot to perform at the upcoming Super Bowl event, the first DJ to do so. Also having a knack for picking collaborators (something much needed for maintaining a lead in the industry for so long), the Musical Freedom boss made a creative pact with Rudimental and Absolutely, a British songstress who debuted last year and has already worked with Tinashe and Louis The Child.

The London-based triage has etched their name on the scene with several hits, most notably “These Days” (featuring Jess Glynne and Macklemore). Their specialism centers on the UK garage sound modified for radio and general listeners; for example, “Alibi” (with Ella Henderson) is an upbeat twist on Coolio’s classic “Gangsta’s Paradise.”

“Waterslides” holds up a riveting show: right from the start, the melancholic but bright vocals from Absolutely extend the melodic chord progression at play. The usual instruments of the genre make an introduction after a few seconds: undulating Reese bassline with sped-up and chopped amen breakbeats. It’s the songwriting and main hook that unexpectedly excels in this expected ensemble, with the shuffling 173 BPM beat further garnished by muffled vocal chops and other effects. There’s more Rudimental to this schematic with the unmistakable soundset, but it wouldn’t be far-fetched to say Tiesto probably lent his expertise to a degree.

A superb piece of garage and pop come together, “Waterslides” isn’t so far from becoming a hit with delectable vocals and lush, rushing instrumental.

You can listen to “Waterslides” here:

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