DA’s Sunday Morning Medicine: Vol. 140

by: Michael Cooper Jul 3, 2016

Sunday Morning Medicine is a feature from Dancing Astronaut dedicated to the mellower side of electronic music. We bring you our favorite therapeutic selections — old and new — in an attempt to alleviate the agonizing effects of a long weekend of partying.

1. Vol. 140 has a distinctly RnB flavor and kicking things off is a collaboration from CVIRO and GXNXVS. With CVIRO providing vocals and GXNXVS the production, “Problem” consciously echoes 90’s RnB. Sliding effortless between smooth and funky, “Problem” places its emphasis on a palpable, rolling groove.

2. Next up is an intriguing blend of RnB with some future trappings courtesy of Xelarin, with assists from Inas and Mavo. A thoroughly subdued affair, Xelarin uses a plain electric piano for foundation and surrounds it with intriguing percussion work. Mavo delivers a languid verse, surrounded by effortless verses from Inas.

3. At the halfway point, Spont delivers a reflective production “recharge.” Drenched in reverb and relying on vocal samples for melodic content, Spont’s pad selection conjures up an ethereal atmosphere. Skittering high hats and crisp snares add pop and propel the track forward.

4. With summer in full swing, Viennese duo MÖWE have crafted an idyllic house track. “Sunshine” is just that: bright, warm, and luminous. The producers take some inspiration from tropical house but weave in rapidly fingerpicked guitar to take things in a direction all their own.

5. Ending Volume 140 is a collaborative effort from Phazz, Everydayz, and Krystle Warren. Entitled “Almeria,” the track alternates between large, futuristic chord stabs that pack a punch and a gently swaying groove where the vocals shine. The production is thoroughly measured, tastefully adding new elements to each successive section, maintaining listener interest, and showcasing a thoughtful use of percussion.