Artist: James Benitez
Title: Star Chaser
Label: Release Grooves
By: Simon Jones | 24 September 2003
Tracklist:

• A: Paranoid Jack Mix
• B: Original Mix

James Benitez "Star Chaser"

James Benitez hails from Athens in Greece, where a growing number of producers seem to be developing their skills as of late. Having been involved in music for many years, honing his skills as both as dj and producer, developing his own unique sound over the past few years or so. This has lead to several tracks being signed to Ready Mix Records, but Release Records were particularly impressed by the track 'Starchaser', which launches the new Release Grooves label.

First up is 'Paranoid Jack', following on from his well received remix of Big Black Boot's 'Vibrate' with another outing here. Much like the aforementioned remix, this is another bass driven workout that is kept evolving thanks in part to some funky melodies and a subtle piano line which introduces itself. Tight percussion and looped beats wrap it all up, and this is another fine remix from a man who's prominence is on the increase once more.

The 'Original' focuses on intricate melodies, with a warm yet well delivered vocal hook that drifts over the top of the shuffling beats. Great use of layers and added melodies really bring out the big riff that rides through the centre, and even though the groove is fairly laid back, this one sure does have it's moments.

A promising debut for both label and artist, and this new offshoot label from Release looks set to inject some life back into the house scene if this release is anything to go by.