Release Date: 13th March 2006
Release Code: DEEPCD 1506
Release Label: Deepblue Records
Introduction:
For almost a decade, Rich Mowatt and Andy Bury have found themselves at the pinnacle of top quality trance productions, most famously under the alias of Solar Stone. In the late nineties, they produced the track “Seven Cities”, one that propelled them to international recognition and cementing their place in trance folklore for generations to come.
However, the boys did not rest on their laurels and continued to produce more household anthems in the form of “Solarcoaster” and “Release”, as well as setting up their own label Deepblue Records. This has led to fans craving that long-awaited next production. The next chapter in this discography has resulted in Rich and Andy recruiting the vocal talents of one Jes Brieden, famed for her work with Motorcycle and Deepsky.
The result is “Like a Waterfall”, a release which has been awaited by many since September 2004, when Solar Stone’s co-production partner in crime Scott Bond gave it a spin as part of his Exposure Festival set that year. In 2005 the track received huge amounts of attention thanks to it’s inclusion on Tiesto’s In Search of Sunrise 4 compilation, in addition to multiple plays on Armin Van Buuren’s radio show A State Of Trance.
The mix package includes three different versions by Solar Stone, along with a remix from Canadian producer and DJ Max Graham.
Solar Stone Club Mix
The club mix starts off with a very atmospheric intro, allowing the bassline to gradually creep it’s way into play. I admire the piano work in the track a lot, it may not grab the headlines after a first listen but it will keep you coming back for more. The mood changes again as the background quietens, and the immediately distinguishable voice of Jes Brieden begins to fill the speakers. The vocals completely dictate the mood and progression of this version, and a little teaser in the main melody comes into play before it escalates in the main breakdown.
Deeper Sunrise Mix
Starting off in a slower vein than the club mix, this seems to really capture the effectiveness of such a simple bassline. When I hear the opening minute of this version it gives me the chills. Compared to the club mix, there is also a different ordering of the verses, which again could be important for a DJ when it comes to dictating the mood and direction of a set. The main melody itself is isolated until the break comes in, again more chilling moments with the waves and water sounds. Ideal for a set opener.
Solar Stone Dub Mix
For the non-vocal lovers, they are not left disappointed with the opportunity of a dub. It maintains the same pace and structure as the club mix, with a few traces of Jes’ vocal spread throughout. It obviously serves it’s purpose for those who are not a fan of Jes’ vocals, however my opinion is that the vocals are a fundamental and critical ingredient that makes this track what it is, and it somehow feels empty without them.
Max Graham Club Mix
When I discovered that Max Graham had been chosen to handle remix duties for Like a Waterfall, I immediately knew that it was a wise decision, as he has continually pleased fans in the community with his productions and remixes alike. With this remix, you are provided with that usual moody groove Max has seemingly perfected. However, the bassline has been completely reworked, giving the track a real breath of fresh air. The track still allows the vocals to dictate the emotion of the track, and thus allowing Jes to shine once again. An excellent alternative compared to the original.
Final Thoughts:
I have to admit, the first time I heard Like a Waterfall back in September 2004, I was shaking. I felt there and then that I was listening to something special. Despite the long and agonising wait for it’s release, my appetite and appeal for the track has not dwindled.
I admire the Solar Stone guys so much, because they are true pioneers of the industry and are among the top echelons of acts when it comes to production quality. Like a Waterfall only adds to that reputation. Jes Brieden continues to amaze with her vocal work as she has done over the past 3 years, and this is a track where her vocals will be most fondly remembered.
The track itself has great crossover potential, I believe that if you gave the track to someone who does not like trance music, they would still appreciate it’s quality. That is something very hard to perfect, but Solar Stone overcome that challenge with ease.
A must have for any trance music lover’s collection.
Useful Links:
www.solarstone.org.uk
www.deepbluerecords.co.uk
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Reviewed By : ImpactPlayaz
