(Progressive House, Downtempo) Justin Oh - All I Say (Silk Digital Records [SILK056]) WEB - 2012, FLAC (tracks), lossless

Silk proudly welcomes Korean artist Justin Oh to its ranks for its 56th release; With recent radio support from Matt Darey, Marcus Schossow, and Paul Oakenfold, as well as a feature in DJ Mag Korea, Justin has truly witnessed a remarkable career ascent of late, so we're especially delighted to launch his latest single, "All I Say." The Original Mix is an uplifting, melodic progressive house gem, which begins with an extended intro, highlighted by "live" drums and a repeating, distorted vocal sample. The gorgeous lead chords arrive after a mini-break and begin to crescendo. As we hit the main break, the chords pull back, leaving room for Justin's poignant vocal (a wonderful surprise, as his voice is terrific), processed with an anthemic, "stadium" delay and reverb. When the drop finally hits and the lead chords are re-introduced, euphoric vibes seize the listener. Trusty Russian sensation Soarsweep (a.k.a. Smooth Stab), who Silk fans may recall as one of the winners of our "Move On" Remix Contest, treats us to two interpretations. The 'Intelligent' remix is a chilled house take, rife with pensive and melancholic textures. A steady, deconstructed rhythm, coupled with an almost hypnotic bell and pad-layered melody, launch the listener into a reverie from start to finish. Justin's vocal is given ample room to breath, and we can hear the emotive lyrics in full focus. The 'Chill Out' remix offers a low-fi, broken-beat rhythm and the same beautifully crafted moody and evocative atmosphere. The "B-side" of the single, "Good Morning," is arguably even more inspirational and lush than the title cut. The extended, beat-less intro has a modern "synth pop" influence, as soaring chords are met by filtered, reverb-heavy vocal chops. The percussion and bassline finally hit at the quarter turn, and track immediately transforms into a driving, "post-rock meets progressive house" anthem. In the main break, the beat drops out, and then is filtered back in, as a funky synth line is added to the ebullient soundscape. Justin's catchy, as well as deeply moving, vox really shine at this moment and will be sure to have you humming for the rest of your day.