Artist: Micah
Title: Epidemic
Label: Ruhnsong Recordings
By: Jason Calvert | 30 July 2006
Tracklist:

• 1. Part One
• 2. Part Two
• 3. Umut Gocken Mix
• 4. Joel Armstrong Mix

Micah "Epidemic"

Micah is a Canadian producer who really doesn't need any introduction. His production style has varied over the years, from driving funky tunes, to deep emotional numbers, to soundtrack material. Not too long ago his rework of Bent's 'As You Fall' captured a huge audience due to its simplistic but deeply touching atmosphere. And it seems he is going from strength to strength with the launch of his label Ruhnsong Recordings, and a beautiful release to kick it off.

Part 1 of 'Epidemic' captured me right from the outset due to the sheer beauty in the introduction. Lush pads are complimented by an emotive string section to set the mood. The track possesses an amazing sense of structural unity in its progression which is a true testament to Micah's solid production skills. This one is on constant rotation in my player.

Part 2 builds on the original theme created in Part 1, but moves with a more chugging feel due to the percussion being engineered in a different fashion. The synths are harder and stand out over the emotive pads. The blissful melody of part 1 is still there, however its execution is unique, and complements the first part very well.

Turkish producer Umut Gokcen chugs out an anthemic remix of 'Epidemic'. The remix is pitched at the peaking moments of an emotive but driving progressive set. The melodic samples from the original are tweaked up in excellent fashion, and Gokcen works up a great balance between original material and samples from the track. A very pleasing mix which has already been receiving top support.

Joel Armstrong provides the final remix on the release. His work for Proton and Baroque has gained him global respect, and his talent shows off well here. His work has been very unique in recent times, and his mix of 'Epidemic' is no exception. He retains the feel of the original, but introduces some heavy synths and a driving percussion outfit. This created a very interesting effect which sets itself out from the other versions on the release, and also ends it on a high note.

I was more than impressed with this release from Micah's new label. As I have been saying a lot lately, there are many many new labels appearing in recent times, and the first release can prove critical in determining how well the label does. I am confident that with 'Epidemic' kicking off Ruhnsong Recordings, that the future is looking very positive. I for one will certainly be keeping a keen eye on future releases, and I can strongly advise everyone reading to do the same!