(DIA018) Middlefield EP [2004]

(original release sheet:)

Following an overwhelming response to our autumn kickoff with Arnold Jarvis’ “Beautiful Love” and Directions’ “Deep Talkin”, we move into darker, introspective territory as the trees reveal themselves and the winds begin to howl… 

This debut EP from newcomers Middlefield (remixers of Directions’ “Busted Trees” opposite Carl Craig on our DIA017) demonstrates a sonic versatility that brings a new twist to the blending of human warmth into the colder metal of the post-nujazz era. Delivering intricate melodic progression within layered rhythmic structure, Middlefield are a team to watch!

“…the suburban place they call home provides an appropriate metaphor for their approach to electronic music: an uncluttered, less defined barren landscape into which one’s own warmth must be poured…”

A1 – Haze

Classic 4-4 with the identifiable core being an infectiously wide wind-like progression and a bassline that maintains a dynamic roll.  This is the much-lauded back-to-basics approach to good music: only essential magic and no unnecessary clutter.  DJ Deep approved!

A2 – Incoming

Stripped down mid-tempo is the order of the day here:  the Middlefield brothers put inspiration on their proverbial sleeve, giving us an insight into what drives them.  A gorgeously warm progression glistens with some ghostly vocal presence, working up to a subtle rhythmic bed.

 B1 – Incoming (MOONSTARR remix)

Fellow Canadian Moonstarr puts in a cameo appearance sharing his trademarked batucada-infused funk.  Squelched synth leads and crunched drums take the brothers’ original core into dancefloor territory…already killing floors worldwide by Moon himself!

B2 – Haze (Ambient Rework)

Atmospheric texture sans rhythm shifts this version of Haze into chill mode.