Silk Royal’s 34th release, “Why Do We Try?”, brings together the collective talents of three of the finest global progressive artists: Ad Brown (UK), Sunn Jellie (Ukraine), and Nigel Good (Canada). Leading the way is Ad, who has now solidified his status as one of the pre-eminent producer-DJ’s of the genre, with a prolific output of acclaimed tracks, as well as a perpetually active international DJ schedule (most recently his second tour of India in the past year). Ad’s Original Mix, which is also featured on the recently released Silk Royal Showcase 02 compilation, reflects the style of peak-hour progressive that you will most typically hear at the end of his DJ sets: an aggressive rhythm and bassline, carefully balanced by characteristically emotional, melodic, and atmospheric textures. Specifically, the track is centered early on a gut-busting bassline, which receives beautiful, echoing mid-range layers as the track crescendoes into the main break, as well as the introduction of a heavenly, “teaser” vocal stab. In the main break, the melodic elements come into full focus, including a longer version of the vocal sample, delicate piano lines, and a stunning lead chord progression, which triumphantly continues through the drop. Sunn Jellie, whose remix of Mango’s “Good Morning Track” remains one of the most successful and supported cuts in Silk Royal’s history, is back with an almost overwhelmingly lush and groovy progressive trance interpretation. A mesmerizing melodic atmosphere is created early, including a vocoded sample of the titular “why do we try” hook. Euphoric, dancing arpeggios are next added to the already blissful mid-range, as well as a few funky new leads. In the break, the poignant, pad-heavy soundscape will leave any unconvinced listeners completely awed by the feel-good energy. Finally, Canadian artist Nigel Good delivers a more stripped-down, yet tremendously rich, deep, and “timeless” progressive house take. The groove and lead melodies are completely “original,” almost warranting a “rework” (rather than remix) description. Yet, traces of the original track suddenly anchor themselves, such as as a brilliantly processed series of vocal stabs, which all source to the original “why do we try” spoken-word sample. In addition, in the main break, we are unexpectedly (and thrillingly) met by the lead chords of the original, which ebulliently pierce through through the otherwise pensive soundscape with striking flare. Especially suitable for the opening moments of a progressive set, or perhaps the after-hours, Nigel’s take is sure to leave an indelible emotional impact on veteran progressive fans.

Well wouldn’t you know it, WeRecommendRecords has once again brought us all an incredible new release that is sure to please any and all progressive house lovers as this new EP has just about everything one could want in it. WRR has always had a real talent for finding new and innovative artists when plotting their releases and it’s no surprise that this next EP from debut artist M&D Substance is just that…and some. Bringing a new EP titled “Day We Met”, M&D Substance truly did some incredible work to ensure that this 5 track EP would have some ground breaking material for each individual out there that loves progressive house. The first track on this EP which is obviously the EP title “Day We Met” is an absolute beauty, packing a strong amount of melodies, solid kicks and warm bass to satisfy any needs one might have. Next up we have “Weakness” which is a strong mixture of Main Room House and Melodic House, resulting in an electro styled melodic stormer that will surely melt some faces on the dance floor. Next up we “We Are All As One” which packs some heavy emotions and chords that give a real trance infused presence on the dance floor and really has a great amount of power to it…definitely one for a more peak time hour. The fourth offering in this 5 track EP is “Let It Be” which is an incredible production that harnesses some really nice sounds ranging from heavy kick drums, warm low end bass lines and sexy guitar strings, to an epic whining synth that truly serenades this production in every way. Last but not least we have the track titled “If I Were There” which is a gorgeous melodic powerhouse, bringing some tough punchy kicks, warm rich bass, gorgeous vocals and a strong melodic infused structure that really compliments the entire EP and finishes it off with an amazing amount of grace and style.

Well it’s once again time for another instillation of well rounded beats from the sublabel that never fails to please…Round Triangle!! This time around the team over at Round Triangle has harnessed the incredible musical powers of Pavel Denisov who brings a fresh new single titled “Cold Energy” to the table. If that wasn’t enough to get you intrigued there is also two incredible remixes supplied by Meyerson as well as Mistol Team, so no matter what there is gonna be something in here for everyone. The Original Mix is a nice deep progressive tune that has some punchy kick drums, deep atmosphere, ripping chords and an extremely satisfying bass line that all wrapped together creates an incredible deep yet powerful melodic journey. The Meyerson Remix brings the original to a more driving state of sound, pushing an almost tech sounding infusion into the track while applying a solid combination of rounded kick drums, choppy melodies, whining synths and smooth atmosphere. The Mistol Team Remix really takes the best elements of the original and applies an even balance of quirky sounds mixed with some smooth yet powerful bass, all the while remaining incredibly deep and melodic. Anyone looking for a solid deep progressive release will be satisfied 100% when they find this, we know we enjoyed every minute of it!!

We here at ESM are happy to bring you another gorgeous production, this time from LA based progressive artist Sedi. Bringing with him a gorgeous new release titled “Influence”, we are sure many of you will be overjoyed at this incredible production filled with emotion, power and above all…melody!! On remix duties we have Evgeny KoTT, Corger and D&Z who all bring an incredible interpretation to the table and really help make this release a true masterpiece. The “Original Mix” is nothing short of spectacular and really delves deep to bring you some incredible sounds ranging from the solid kick drums, crisp snare and percussion and warm vibrant pads to the over-all happy atmosphere that really grabs hold of the listener from beginning to end. The Evgeny KoTT remix is a beautiful rendition that touches more on the calm and cool side of the sound spectrum. Incredibly gorgeous with some gorgeous textures, Evgeny really brings out the melodic side of this track and demonstrates what a musical genius he really is. Corger really brings an incredible remix that touches more on the disco house side but also packs a great amount of energy and drive to it as well. This remix really brings out some gorgeous funky sounds while remaining absolutely heavenly with the gorgeous melodic edge this artist tends to bring. Last but certainly not least is the D&Z remix which is absolutely impressive, bringing a nice intro styled track that paces itself along nicely as it evolves into a powerful melodic stormer. This remix is one that has some peak time power for those looking for a more clubby edge. All in all each artist did an incredible job and we truly hope you enjoy this next release as much as we do.

When I see a track produced by mighty Serbian nubreed D&Z, the first association that crosses my mind is – summer! So is there a better way to entitle an EP but calling it ‘Summer Vibes’?

NRG Dance Recordings continues to lead the cruise deeper into the summer, this time by putting D&Z into the rudder. The ‘Summer Vibes’ consists of two equally golden progressive pieces. The title cut ‘Summer Vibes’ is a beautiful summer uplifter, with sunny soaked synths and stabs, and dramy build ups. If you are chilling by the beach with your favorite persons, and drinking your favorite cocktails, just play this baby in the background and there will be nothing more you’re gonna need to fully enjoy the hot summer atmosphere. ‘Orchid Drops’ follows the ‘happy theme’ philosophy of the ‘Summer Vibes’. But this time D&Z goes with more upbeat and euphoric tempo, so this is much more dancefloor oriented track.

All around, this is another cracking pack from NRG. Make sure not to miss it.

DOWNLOAD D&Z – Summer Vibes EP [NRGDNCREC033]

In the recent interview PHW did with Chears Ears I’ve pointed out at Bermudos as a label that is the one to watch out for in the near future. And here is one of the reasons for that claim.

After a smashing EP from Deepfunk, next up is BER004 – an EP containing two originals and two remixes. The originals are from Varicap and Oleginsky, here showing techno parts of their souls under KAGO DO moniker. The EP kicks off with a hypnotizing cut called ‘Robokids With Summer Hearts’. Certainly my absolute favorite in his pack. This is an epic dark journey slowly building up until the absolutely enormous and mesmerizing breakdown explodes! This is going to take your breathe away! First up on a remix duty is D-Noise who offers a fatte reinterpretation, intended to crate some peak time on the dancefloor. Second original is  ‘I Can See The Neosunsets’, a dark and, certainly, a heavier floor filler than ‘Robokids’. The EP rounds off with the third remix of ‘Robokids’, coming from Aaronautica. This is a rather deep retake that keeps that mesmerizing main melody of the Original, but offering a much more subtle and uniform ride, through the entire track, with nicely reworked breakdown theme.

Check it out.

DOWNLOAD KAGO DO – Robokids With Summer Hearts [BER004]

Well everyone it’s that wonderful time again when the incredible label Macarize serenades us with yet another incredible release. This time around Macarize calls on The Netherlands’ up and coming producer Blighty, who brings us a fresh new single titled Kärlek which is nothing short of peak time perfection. If that weren’t enough Macarize has brought on the incredible remixing talent of Thomas Bronzwaer as well as returning artist EDU who introduces a new alias titled 5tranger. Anyone who is looking for the next big peak time jam is sure to have their powerhouse progressive appetite completely sated with this epic offering. The Original Mix is nothing but pure power and beauty, bringing some incredible thumping kick drums, crisp percussion, crashing snares, fluid synth work and a bass line that would get any dance floor jamming in no time. The entire structure of this track is built with a trance styled layout that brings incredible builds and epic drops, this one is meant for the midnight peak hours indefinitely. Next up we have the Thomas Bronzwaer Remix which takes all the hype and big sound from the original and adds a solid electro trance infusion that comes with some incredibly quirky samples, soft toned melodies, pounding bass and an over all main room feel to it. Thomas did a great job emphasizing the trance infusion that the original demonstrates but also takes the build and final drop to new levels with an incredible switch up in sounds. Last up we have the EDU pres. 5tranger Remix which is an absolute roller, nice chuggy kick drums, rolling bass lines, long powerful upsweeps and a whole plethora of gorgeous infusions that will leave many wanting to hit the replay button immediately. Anyone looking to pick this release up should do so with an umbrella handy, cause this release is an absolute stormer!

First time appeared on our 2nd sampler past Spring “Don’t Know” theme by young Canadian producer Mathieu Tilli finally sees its full single release with remixes.

On remix duties: Sweet Life from Russia, who debuts on Spring Tube after successful EP on our second label Round Triangle; well known Bulgarian DJ/producer Andrez, who was noticed with couple of remixes on Spring Tube earlier but now presents the work under his new alias  Shopping Therapy; and label’s frequent remixer  Ramiro Bernabela from the Netherlands.

This single is the final from remixed editions for the brightest themes from Spring Tube’s 2nd sampler and we are ready to present you the 3rd sampler with lots of goodies, so don’t miss our next release but now enjoy this one!

We here at Elliptical Sun Melodies are extremely proud to bring you our first release from the dynamic progressive duo known as Biotones. This first release is just another example of the brilliant mellow and melodic fusions that these two are capable of infusing. This new production titled “Tale” is an amazing display of deep and melodic textures all wrapped into one. Bringing with it some soft kick drums, dreamy pads, a low end bass line and some crisp percussion, this track really delves into itself to bring you a true melodic experience. On remix duties we you’ll find Canadian progressive guru Lessov and Russian progressive stars Dunkan and Artemil. Lessov’s remix really brings a dark and deep approach to the original, loaded with a set of nice solid kick drums, deep dark atmosphere, a warm pounding bass line and an incredible array of melody variations and sound, we’re sure everyone will truly enjoy this rendition from one of Canada’s finest producers. Next up we have the Dunkan remix which takes a more melodic approach, bringing with it some soft percussion, smooth kick drums, a deep and soothing bass line and a great upbeat vibe that really gives this original a more galloping style of sound and goes to show what this talented producer can do with any project he touches. The last remix you’ll find is by Artemil which really takes the original to new heights. This remix provides an extremely melodic and all around hands in the air experience that is loaded with strong kick drums, gorgeous melodies, ripping bass lines and an amount of energy that is unmatched. We’re sure there is something in here for all different types of progressive lovers and hope everyone enjoys this first of many releases to come.

Nick Stoynoff‘s “Berlin Dream” EP on Proton Music was released at the beginning of 2012 and played on Proton Radio by Francesco Pico, Soliquid, Exoplanet, and #1 DJs Hawker and James Warren. As both a featured & best-selling Beatport release, the EP marked Nick Stoynoff as an artist at the top of his game. Now, the first remixes are in…Israeli don Igal Magitman has been a leading figure in progressive house ever since his early collaborations with Brisker in 2006. More recently, his solo productions have mutated into techno monsters with raging bass lines and infectious grooves that have done serious damage on labels like Tribal Vision and Twisted Frequency. His new remix of “Brandenburg” for Nick Stoynoff marks Magitman’s welcome return to Proton Music after a remix for Moonbeam in 2010.On the flip is Colourblock, consisting of Lank, Forteba, and DJ Stone from Hungary. With a pedigree that spans leading labels across genres and continents, their debut original “Stardust” on Proton Music’s VS e.p. series took to the charts in the first half of 2012 as a precursor to their forthcoming full length artist album on the label.

The May episode of Jaytech Music features a showcase of upcoming & underground new progressive talent, as well as Jaytech’s 2012 remix of ‘Overdrive’. Guest mix this month courtesy of Tom Fall, who will be playing exclusive tracks from the upcoming Silk Royal compilation.

Hour 1 – Jaytech

1. Jaytech – Overdrive (2012 Remix) [Anjunadeep]
2. Kobana – Undercover (Sezer Uysal Remix) [Particles]
3. Vintage & Morelli – Tree of Life [Perceptive Deep]
4. DAVI – Labyrinth [Perspectives Digital]
5. Anish Sood & Ramona Arena – Wanna Be Your Only Love (Praveen Achary Dub) [925 Global]
6. Mason – The Kickoff [Animal Language]
7. Kobana & Yane3Dots – BN2 1TW (Faskil Remix) [Spring Tube]
8. Louder Dale – Halo (Matao Remix) [Silk]
9. Riktam & Bansi – Melody [Iboga]
10. Vasiliy Goodkov – Feel [Arrant Records]

Hour 2 – Tom Fall Silk Royal Showcase Special

1. Jacob Henry – Hopeful Romantic [Silk]
2. Terry Da Libra – Dynamis [Silk]
3. Sergey Tkachev – Mi Ta [Silk]
4. Rainbow Addict – Perfect Morning [Silk]
5. Johan Vilborg – Warmer Days [Silk]
6. Gregory Esayan & Losing Rays – Cold Breath [Silk]
7. 19hz – Round & Round [Silk]
8. Airdraw – Release [Silk]
9. Gregory Esayan – When You Love [Silk]
10. Shingo Nakamura & Kazusa – Move On (Sundriver Remix) [Silk]

The interview is pretty lengthy so be sure to click Continue Reading button to read it in full version! Happy reading. Also, the interview is done by Lucy from CheersEars; this is just a repost ;)

Back in the mists of time (ok, 2010), something big started to happen on the world wide web. A small group of intrepid progressive house lovers based in Europe had bonded over their shared love of magnificent melodies, warm basslines and epic emotional hooks, and together they decided to start a new chapter in their appreciation for this musical manna from heaven. And lo, in a blaze of inspiration and eagerly typed reviews, Progressive House Worldwidewas born!

Since then the site has gone from strength to strength, as the PHW crew grew, diversified and found new ways to promote, spread and support the music, artists and labels that they loved – everything from interviewing some of the biggest stars of the progressive house scene and dedicating themselves to daily reviews of all the latest releases and juicy promos to skilfully crafting weekly promo mixes and putting on aural extravaganzas in 2011 and 2012 in conjunction with Pure.FM.

They say that time flies when you’re having fun, and so it has proved for the PHW crew, because today they’re celebrating the momentous milestone that is their 2nd birthday and, I hope, revelling in the deserved accolade of having established themselves as the best progressive house website around. What’s more, the PHW crew have always been nothing but 100% supportive of Cheers Ears and I admire them hugely for what they do – so when I got the opportunity to interview the guys to celebrate their birthday, I jumped at it! What follows is an in-depth, insightful account from Freddie, Milo, Alex and Max of the history of PHW, the future, and all the progressive house you could possibly wish for in between.

With his recent “The Bipolar EP” picking up support from DJs as diverse as A Trak, Above & Beyond, Afrojack, Steve Aoki and Arty, the London sensation Mat Zo delivers another impressive release with the classy vocal track “The Sky”; featuring the distinctive vocals of Linnea Schossow.

With two contrasting mixes that showcase Mat’s ability to master different vibes, “The Sky” also sees the London-based producer deliver his first ever vocal track with serious aplomb.

A dancefloor killer and musical journey rolled into one, the extended mix of “The Sky” builds elegantly with a symphony of synths and leads into a sweeping breakdown full of warm melodies and Schossow’s distinctive, searching tones. Lifting off with an epic thrust on the drop, “The Sky” is a classy, crossover anthem that brings together elements of house, progressive and trance into a unique blend.

Taking the track down a more alternative and edgy direction, Zo’s bass-heavy Club Mix is full of schizophrenic magic; twisting through different sections effortlessly in an eight-minute voyage. Beginning on a big room progressive house groove, Mat moves into a melodic, synth-driven breakdown before flipping in to a gnarly bass-throttled section that has been causing serious damage in Mat’s recent sets from Miami’s Bayfront Amphitheatre to London’s Brixton Academy. Totally unexpected, the final drop comes loaded with surging synths.

Mat Zo – The Sky [Anjunabeats] Out Now

Aggressor and Ivan Nikusev are two of the leading figures in the new landscape of progressive trance. This production duo hails from Macedonia and have been crafting some of the most uniquely beautiful melodic music for the last several years. Many of their recent originals and remixes have been compared to such scene legends like James Holden and Luke Chable. The 28th release on Ivan Nikusev’s OLD SQL Recordings sees this currently on fire production with their 3 tracks ‘Together in a Rush’ EP.

The release starts with ‘Tears In Her Eyes’, a Holden inspired shimmering synths and stunning refrains. The piano lead during the drop is once again spectacular and as the soothing vocals wash over the utterly captivating and deeply emotional melodies it’s clear that this pair has a true sense of what electronic soul should be.

‘Together’ follows with a hazy flow of hypnotic, washed out sounds while the lead keys dance over the top in perfectly balanced unison. Their sense of musicianship is strong with an impassioned blend of pianos, guitar and scattered breakbeats during the breakdown which makes way for a harmonious finale.

The EP closes with one of Ivan and Aggressor’s most epic compositions to date entitled ‘In A Rush’ . Beginning with a barrage of cool electronics and big wobbly bass stabs the piece grows mightily as sheets of wavering synths and metallic percussion build up around the framework. Heavenly pads carry the track to a short drop where the bubbly synth lines come front and centre and when the thunderous bottom end comes crashing back in the intensity is upped further with the spacey melodies creating a swirling wall of bliss that your dance floor won’t soon forget!

Aggressor & Ivan Nikusev – Together In A Rush EP [OLD SQL] DOWNLOAD

Neuroscience favourites Vitodito and Soulforge return to Neuroscience Deep, this time with a new collaboration under their Positiva alias. we all know that these guys are both fantastic producers in their own right, but when they work together, you know we are in for a treat. With ‘Ask Yourself’, they’ve delivered yet again!’Ask Yourself’ is a great slice of progressive house. It has a deeper feel to Vitodito and Soulforge’s usual sound, but it definately has a sound you’ll start to recognise as Positiva. As the track progresses, we’re introduced to some great atmospheric pads and gorgoeous melodic elements. The addition of a melanholic vocal also works well, adding to the feel of the track. Top work here!On remix duties with have Matt Fax and Ninesh Babu… Matt Fax is new alias for the very talented young French producer Mike Duz who made his debut with us not long ago. He’s managed to put his own stamp on ‘Ask Yourself’ and created a tasty remix. He’s even managed to add some old-school breaks in to the breakdown!Finishing off things is Ninesh Babu, who’s making his debut on the label. Ninesh has given his remix a cool nu-disco vibe, filled with 80s influences. If you like the sounds of Michael Cassette, this remix is for you. This remixes definitely leaves us wanting to hear more from Ninesh.

Vitodito & Soulforge pres. Positiva – Ask Yourself [Neuroscience Deep] OUT NOW