Paul Thomas, a renowned DJ, producer, and the mastermind behind the influential UV label, has long been celebrated for his unique ability to blend progressive house, melodic techno, and electronica into captivating journeys for the dance floor. Since its inception, UV Records has become a trusted outlet for forward-thinking sounds, supported by some of the biggest names in the electronic music scene. Entering 2026, Paul unleashes his highly anticipated solo project, the 'Benediction EP,' featuring the tracks 'Benediction' and 'Separation,' available now on UV. This release comes on the heels of his collaborative remix of Josh Wink's classic 'How's Your Evening So Far' with Das Pharaoh, which continues to gain massive traction week by week. True to the signature UV style, both cuts from the EP deliver across the spectrum of electronica, providing enough energy to satisfy both mid-set explorations and peak-time dance floor moments, earning support from industry heavyweights including Sasha, Hernan Cattaneo, Nick Warren, Steve Lawler, Sven Väth, Das Pharaoh, and many more.
Release Link : UV.lnk.to/benediction
[review top="1"]
[item value="10"] Paul Thomas - Benediction / Separation[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Paul Thomas’s dual release, Benediction / Separation, emerges as a masterful example of modern progressive house production, excelling across every technical and artistic criterion. Opening with “Benediction” at a steady 120 BPM, the track immediately captivates with its deep, rolling basslines and chunky, bouncy grooves that provide a stable rhythmic foundation. The percussion is crisp and well-layered, with thumping kicks and subtle hi-hat patterns that maintain drive without overwhelming the melodic elements. The piano melodies float effortlessly on top, weaving euphoric and optimistic harmonic progressions that create an emotionally immersive experience. The transitions are seamless, with each build-up and drop meticulously crafted to maintain momentum while introducing fresh sonic textures. The melodic hooks are memorable yet sophisticated, achieving an ideal balance between immediate ear appeal and long-term replay value. “Separation,” by contrast, ramps up to 124 BPM, pushing slightly into a more energetic spectrum while retaining the cohesive sonic identity of the release. Drawing from Afro-house influences and cinematic sensibilities, the track features hypnotic oriental-inspired vocal fragments and spacious electronic effects that enrich the overall atmosphere. The big, melodramatic string arrangements contribute to a sweeping sense of immersion, while its dynamic range and loudness balance allow every frequency to breathe, ensuring clarity and impact on both club systems and personal listening setups. Sound design throughout the release showcases Paul Thomas’s technical prowess, with each element—kick, bass, melody, and effect—sitting perfectly in the mix, enhancing the storytelling arc that unfolds over the course of the tracks. The artistic identity of the release is unmistakable, combining creativity with structural originality. Each track flows naturally, with intros and outros designed for seamless DJ integration, offering multiple cue points and looping potential that make them highly functional for live sets and festival performances. The energy curve over time demonstrates intentional momentum management, keeping listeners entranced while also offering DJs powerful tools for dynamic set flow. The tracks’ hypnotic qualities, coupled with their cinematic depth and emotional resonance, evoke a profound sense of euphoria and escapism. From a wellness perspective, this music demonstrates tangible benefits. Scientific studies have shown that rhythmic and harmonic elements in music, particularly in the 120–130 BPM range common in progressive house, can lower stress levels, enhance mood, and synchronize heart rate during exercise or meditation sessions (Thoma et al., 2013; Karageorghis & Priest, 2012). The meditative yet driving qualities of “Benediction” make it ideal for yoga or mindfulness-based movement classes, while the more energizing “Separation” can enhance physical performance in cardio or dance-based fitness routines. The immersive soundscapes can promote dopamine release, contributing to feelings of motivation and pleasure, which are particularly beneficial in mental health and wellness contexts. In summary, Benediction / Separation is a demonstration of both technical mastery and emotional storytelling. Paul Thomas achieves a rare synthesis of club functionality, artistic integrity, and positive psychological impact, delivering tracks that resonate deeply with audiences in both personal and shared spaces. This release is not just a set of tracks; it is a rich, multi-sensory experience that reaffirms the transformative power of music. #PureGold LoveIT [/content]
[item value="10"]Rhythm, Groove & Drive[/item][item value="10"]Melodic Hooks & Harmonic Layers[/item]
[item value="10"]Transitions, Drops & Build-Ups [/item]
[item value="10"]Energy Flow & Momentum [/item]
[item value="10"]Sound Design & Production Quality[/item]
[item value="10"]Originality of Arrangement & Structure[/item]
[item value="10"]Use of Effects & Spatial Design[/item]
[item value="10"]Dynamic Range & Loudness Balance[/item]
[item value="10"]Atmosphere & Immersion[/item]
[item value="10"]Emotional Resonance[/item]
[item value="10"]Creativity & Artistic Identity[/item]
[item value="10"]Cohesion & Storytelling[/item]
[item value="10"]Vocal Performance & Lyrical Impact[/item]
[item value="10"]Catchiness & Replay Value[/item]
[item value="10"]Club / Festival Suitability[/item]
[item value="10"]Track Intro/Outro Structure[/item]
[item value="10"]BPM Consistency & Sync Ease[/item]
[item value="10"]Cue Points & Loop Potential[/item]
[item value="10"]Dynamic Energy for Set Flow[/item]
[item value="10"]Crowd Reaction Potential[/item]
[/review]
Suggested Bibliography:
Thoma, M. V., Ryf, S., Mohiyeddini, C., Ehlert, U., & Nater, U. M. (2013). Emotion regulation through listening to music in everyday situations. Cognition and Emotion, 27(3), 534–543.
Karageorghis, C. I., & Priest, D. L. (2012). Music in the exercise domain: A review and synthesis (Part I). International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 5(1), 44–66.
Koelsch, S. (2014). Brain correlates of music-evoked emotions. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 15(3), 170–180.
Chanda, M. L., & Levitin, D. J. (2013). The neurochemistry of music. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 17(4), 179–193.
Additional info:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/uvmusic_ofc
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/uvmusicofc
Beatport: https://www.beatport.com/label/uv/64529
