We’re only halfway through the year, and already Santé has been making big steps in the house scene across the globe. After big releases on a number of high profile labels, including Nic Fanciulli’s “Saved” at the start of the year and Jamie Jones’ “Hot Creations” more recently, the talented German followed this up with something special: a residency at the Playa D’en Bossa club in Ibiza as one of Steve Lawler’s notorious Warriors. This will see him join the name of some big hitters, including Groove Armada, Eats Everything and of course the big Warrior himself Steve Lawler… and judging by his recent EP release on Hot Since 82’s “Knee Deep In Sound” label, it’s not hard to see why.
The title of the EP, as well as the first track on it, is 909 Basement, a name that naturally leaves listeners asking questions. It starts with a punchy drum sound, quickly complimented by ringing hi hats, before being taken in a slightly darker direction with echoing lyrical samples. These gradually diminish, giving way to a certain futuristic ringing that creates an overall dark yet simultaneously funky feel… certainly a song that will get ravers grooving.
Up next is Text Message. Again that strong drum sound is accentuated by a faint repetitive jingling, however this time the hi hats are set at faster tempo, giving the release a bouncier, more upbeat feel.
To finish, but by no means to disappoint, is Endless. We’re taken in a more mechanical direction with this one as santé layers a robotic beep on top of a powerful bassline, before introducing an innocent sounding echo on top, to again provide a light playful vibe that naturally invites us to dance.
To sum up, it’s a strong 3 track EP from the talented German. With a good balance of bouncy basslines and daring drums, these tracks truly feel at home on the Knee Deep in Sound label.