(DIA012) One Life to Live [2003]

(original release sheet:)

Launching into 2003, Diaspora goes back to its roots after Rich Medina’s critically acclaimed “Minstrel Speak” to bring a deep house piece done in the classic tradition.

In the producer’s chair, Dan Curtin brings together a supporting cast including Warren Harris (pka Hanna) and R&B vocalist “Little Joe.”

While Italy’s ‘Harley and Muscle’ complement the A-side original mix with a deeper-than-deep remix, Sweet Abraham sets up shop on the B-side with his characteristic live/electronic forward-leaning funk groove.

A1 – Original Mix

Clean and precise, Dan Curtin demonstrates his versatility as a producer in bringing this classic mix with crisp electronic elements.  With Warren Harris’ key work providing a bed in which Joe’s vocals lie, a late-night smooth session emerges.

A2 – Harley & Muscle remix

Huge fans of Dan’s original sound, H&M provide a lush but stripped-down groove dominated by sub-bass and a thick chord progression.  Deep house DJs beware!

B1 – Sweet Abraham’s Livin’ Step

The influence of the ‘West London’ sound is echoed in Sweet Abraham’s aggressive yet detailed drum programming.  The mix brings a heavy sense of structure and arrangement to the original and takes it into future soul territories.