The album celebrates four decades of house music in a powerful tribute to Smooth’s journey from the underground clubs of Chicago to international acclaim
Legendary house music producer Joe Smooth today released ‘We Shall Overcome’, his first album in over 30 years. Arriving at a poignant moment, the release stands as a deeply personal reflection on his 40-year journey in house music, celebrating the genre’s rich soundscape and the many voices that have shaped his path.
A self-taught musician and DJ since his early teens, Smooth quickly emerged as a foundational force in Chicago’s house music scene. By age 20, he was the head DJ at the iconic Smart Bar and collaborating with genre frontrunners such as Frankie Knuckles, Marshall Jefferson, and Lil Louis, and producing for artists including Prince and The Art of Noise. In 1983, Smooth co-produced ‘Jack Trax’, one of the earlier house records, featuring ‘Time to Jack’ – the first record in dance music to use the terms “Jack” and “House” and a track widely seen as a cornerstone of house music’s first wave. Just four years later, his seminal track ‘Promised Land’ became a global anthem.
Now, with ‘We Shall Overcome’, Smooth presents a sonic time capsule that blends new compositions with remastered classics, offering a reflective yet progressive journey through the genre’s evolution, told through the eyes of one of its founding pioneers.
Lead single ‘Overcome’, featuring iconic house music vocalist Chuck Roberts alongside Angie Brown and Mr. Root, pays homage to Roberts with a tribute that ensures his voice continues to echo across the scene for decades to come. The album also includes contributions from artists who have reinterpreted Promised Land, including Solomun and Lee Foss, bridging generations of house music and connecting the genre’s roots to today’s global dance culture.
"We Shall Overcome is about more than music: it’s a message," says Joe Smooth. "At a time when the world feels divided, house music continues to bring people together. This album is a celebration of that energy, and of the community that’s carried this culture forward."
As the genre continues to expand and evolve, Smooth emphasizes the need to preserve its roots. “We need to get back to that feeling – house is a feeling. DJs and producers should take more risks and be more intentional with what they create and play. The new generation is hungry for meaning, and this music has always been the soundtrack to real life.”
With ‘We Shall Overcome’, Joe Smooth reaffirms his role not just as a pioneer, but as an utmost champion of house music’s past, present, and future, reminding listeners of its power to uplift, inspire, and unite.
Tracklist: Disc 1 Joe Smooth x Angie Brown x Mr. Root feat. Chuck Roberts - Overcome Joe Smooth - Rain Down On Me Joe Smooth - feat. Maydien & Robert Owens - Crazy World Joe Smooth x DJ K'Alexi feat. Kaleb Searcy & Lushomo - Black Sun Rising Joe Smooth feat. George Clinton - Our Houze Joe Smooth x Slugo feat Wildstyle - I'm Gonna Take you to the House Joe Smooth x Porcelain - Still Loving You Joe Smooth x Angie Brown x Mr. Root - Get Up Everybody Joe Smooth feat Kaleb Searcy - We Got To Love Joe Smooth feat. Black Pearl - I Don't Want Your Love Joe Smooth x Gursahhh x JR. Melon - My Dreams Come True Joe Smooth feat. Alex Bass - Your Love (Georgie Porgie Remix) Joe Smooth - Got That House
Disc 2 Joe Smooth - Promised Land (Solomun Remix) Joe Smooth, Lee Foss - Promised Land Joe Smooth - Promised Land
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Joe Smooth’s We Shall Overcome is a dynamic two-disc collection that not only celebrates the depth and evolution of house music but also stands as a testament to advanced production techniques and meticulous craftsmanship. This collection bridges classic vibes with contemporary sounds through sophisticated layering and innovative sound design. Tracks like "Overcome," featuring Angie Brown, Mr. Root, and Chuck Roberts, showcase powerful vocal processing techniques. The vocals are enhanced with dynamic EQ, subtle reverb layering, and careful compression to maintain clarity and emotional impact. The uplifting beats are crafted using a mix of analog drum machines and digital sequencers, creating a rich, warm texture synonymous with classic house. “Rain Down On Me” and “Crazy World” bring soulful melodies to the forefront, thanks to the use of vintage synthesizers like the Roland Juno-106, coupled with modern soft-synths for harmonic layering. The contributions from Maydien & Robert Owens are emphasized through intricate vocal harmonization techniques and stereo imaging, giving the tracks a spacious, immersive feel. "Black Sun Rising" stands out with its complex rhythmic structures. The collaboration with DJ K'Alexi, Kaleb Searcy, and Lushomo highlights Joe Smooth’s knack for polyrhythmic layering and syncopation. The track employs sidechain compression to maintain groove consistency while allowing the bassline to breathe alongside intricate percussive elements. "Our Houze" with George Clinton seamlessly infuses funk elements into house grooves through live bass recordings, processed with envelope filters and analog saturation, creating a groovy, organic feel. "Still Loving You" featuring Porcelain uses atmospheric pads, granular synthesis, and meticulous automation to add emotional depth, enhancing the dynamic flow of the album. The second disc is anchored by multiple renditions of the iconic "Promised Land." The Solomun Remix introduces a darker, club-friendly vibe achieved through deep sub-bass synthesis, minimalist drum patterns, and extensive use of reverb and delay effects to create a haunting atmosphere. The low-pass filter automation adds a dynamic progression, making the track evolve seamlessly over time. The collaboration with Lee Foss offers a fresh, modern twist with elements of tech-house. Here, sidechain ducking, modular synthesis, and glitch effects are employed to add texture and depth, while maintaining the soulful essence of the original. The intricate drum programming with off-beat hi-hats and syncopated claps adds a contemporary flair, pushing the rhythmic boundaries. We Shall Overcome is a masterclass in blending soulful house with contemporary electronic elements. Joe Smooth’s production process reflects a deep understanding of both analog warmth and digital precision. Each track is meticulously crafted using advanced mixing and mastering techniques—parallel compression, multi-band EQ, and stereo widening—to create a cohesive, inspiring journey. This album is both reflective and celebratory, paying homage to the roots of house music while pushing its creative boundaries. From a technical standpoint, it showcases an evolution in sound design and production artistry, making it a standout in modern electronic music.#PureGold Love IT[/content]
[item value="10"]Beat and Rhythm[/item] [item value="10"]Basslines and Groove[/item] [item value="10"] Melody [/item] [item value="10"] Synths [/item] [item value="10"]Breakdown[/item] [item value="10"]Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment[/item] [item value="10"]Intensity, Drive and Energy[/item] [item value="10"]Sound-design and Arrangement[/item] [item value="10"]Overall Atmosphere[/item] [item value="10"]Goosebumps / Shivers moments[/item] [item value="10"]Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments[/item] [item value="10"]Originality and Inventiveness[/item] [item value="10"]Radio Friendly[/item] [item value="10"]Vocals & lyrics[/item] [item value="10"]You can’t get this memorable track out of your head[/item] [item value="10"]It has potential to become an anthem or a classic[/item] [/review]
About Joe Smooth
Joe Smooth is one the originators of the genre of music called “House Music” and since 1983 has been considered one of the top DJ's in Chicago, a highly skilled sound engineer, and world class certified platinum producer/composer/writer/re-mixer.
A self-taught musician from the age of 12, Joe Smooth is one of the pioneers of the style of music known today as “House Music”. He has worked with such artists as Frankie Knuckles, Marshall Jefferson, Chip E, A Guy Called Gerald, Lil Louis, Tyree Cooper, Fast Eddie, The Art Of Noise, Sterling Void, The Pet Shop Boys, Janet Jackson, Atlantic Starr, New Order, Steve Hurley... and countless more.
At 18, he opened his first underground nightclub called East Hollywood Mannequins. At 20 he became the head DJ at the now world famous Smart Bar nightclub, his nights attracted 2,000 people and DJ’s Frankie Knuckles and Ron Hardy would come listen to Joe’s sets looking for music to take back and play at their respective clubs, Joe Smooth’s musical prowess was the one instrumental factor that shaped the atmosphere and mystique that still lives at Smart Bar going into its 40th year.
In 1984 Joe Smooth joined the DJ International Records family. After joining the DJ International family he quickly became a central force behind almost everything written or produced from this visionary label. This included Co-producing The Jack Trax EP with Chip-E, the first record to use the words House and Jack. Many say this was the first true house record. Joe also co-produced and mixed Frankie Knuckles' first record, the remake of "You Can't Hide".
In 1985, the Limelight looked at Joe as the number one DJ in Chicago and propositioned Joe for their Chicago nightclub as musical coordinator. In 1987 along with Limelight, he also started working for the soulful Charlie club nightclub as head DJ/musical coordinator and penned one of the greatest house anthems of all time "Promised Land". In 1988, with musical production work at a high, Joe traveled abroad to put his concentration fully into his production, DJ gigs and Performing.
In 1990 CNN commissioned Joe Smooth to write a song as the music bed to be played during the airing of Nelson Mandela’s release after 27 years in prison. This song called “They Want To Be Free” talked about the wrongs of apartheid and oppression of the African people. Later in 1990 returning to Chicago from great success abroad, Joe saw a need for a serious underground house club in Chicago and opened the very successful Warehouse nightclub, named in tribute to the legendary Warehouse nightclub of the late seventies and early eighties with partners Julian Perez and DJ Internationals founder Rocky Jones.
In 1994 Joe’s sought after talent led him to Rome to partner on a label called "Active Bass Music" with famous producer Claudio Donato. Which ran until 1999.
In 1999 Joe Smooth returned home to Chicago and did extensive work with Slang Music Group and Nu Soul until 2005. Joe's work at Slang and Nu Soul would include projects featuring Whitney Houston, Donnell Jones, Destiny’s Child and Sisqo and earn a multitude of Gold and Platinum RIAA awards.
From 2005 till today Joe’s “Obelisk Production Multimedia and Indie Art Music”” labels have released a string of house hits and has songs signed from worldwide artist such as Faith Evans, Syleena Johnson, K Ci and George Clinton, as well as more underground and up and coming artist and is currently in negotiations for worldwide distribution through a major distribution network.
Joe Smooth has worked hard to stay ahead of the curve and is often sought after to consult and mentor some of the world’s greatest producers, DJ’s and labels, like Ultra, Armada and Sony. He has a Joint Venture deal with Armada Music Group, he is currently an ambassador for The School of House based out of Amsterdam, working with a multitude of platinum artist worldwide, collaborating with Global DJ powerhouses like Benny Benassi and Alex Gaudino and working with the great charity organization LNADJ(Last Night A DJ). He is also one of the original organizers of Chicago’s Largest house music events held in Millennium Park yearly “The Chicago House Music Festival” and “The House Legacy Project” attracting 50,000 plus over the Memorial Day weekend. Joe Smooth has also expanded his role in the entertainment community in the role as producer and co-producer for TV and Film, involved in productions like “Casting Call Reality Show” created by Faith Diggs, which can be seen on Firestick and Roku station ENVIO TV.
Armada Music is the biggest independent dance music label in the world. Founded by Armin van Buuren, Maykel Piron (CEO) and David Lewis, the label manages an ever-growing catalog of over 50,000 tracks built up across twenty-plus years of specialized dance music exploitation.
Representing artists such as Armin van Buuren, ARTY, D.O.D, Eelke Kleijn, Jan Blomqvist, Joris Voorn, KI/KI, Lilly Palmer, Loud Luxury, Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano, THEMBA and Yulia Niko, Armada Music amasses more than one billion streams per month, airplay on leading radio outlets such as BBC Radio 1 and Sirius XM, and top positions in the world’s most notable charts. Significant label milestones include Armin van Buuren's Grammy nomination for 'This Is What It Feels Like' and two tracks surpassing one billion streams on Spotify: Loud Luxury and Brando’s ‘Body’ and Lost Frequencies’ ‘Are You With Me’.
Across offices in Amsterdam (HQ), New York, London and Laren (NL), Armada Music offers a global appeal to its growing roster. The label has its own club, radio studio and multiple production studios, and hosts various live formats. Producer platform Armada University, which offers educational products and opportunities, shows the label’s sustained effort to nurture the next wave of talent.
Chicago-born DJ, producer and Hot Creations/Repopulate Mars founder Lee Foss has reworked fellow Chicago legend Joe Smooth’s ‘Promised Land’ for a new version of the bonafide house classic, released today on Armada Music. This disco-infused, club-ready rework is perfectly poised to dominate dance floors worldwide, uniting seasoned ravers and new fans alike around the anthem.
Joe Smooth’s ‘Promised Land’ remains one of the most celebrated records in house music. Released in the late '80s, the track quickly became an anthem within the burgeoning Chicago house music scene, resonating deeply with its message of love and acceptance on dance floors worldwide. Upon release, ‘Promised Land’ reached at #56 in the UK Singles Chart, earned the 20th spot in Mixmag’s “100 Greatest Dance Singles of All Time” in 1996 and ranked fourth on DJ Mag’s “Top 100 Club Tunes” in 1998. The track’s enduring legacy includes appearances in video game Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (2004) and the 2024 film All Of Us Strangers.
Now, Chicago scene frontrunner Lee Foss breathes new life into the classic, elevating the hit with a dance floor-ready production. Underlining the timelessness of the vocal hook with new piano chords, brisk stutters and a nostalgic disco twist, this rendition amplifies the original track’s undeniable ability to stand the test of time.
“‘Promised Land’ is one of my all-time favorite Chicago house classics and has given me so many moments of joy, both DJing and on the dance floor,” says Lee Foss. “I’m honored to have the opportunity to remake this iconic track and reimagine its story for a new generation of ravers and clubbers. I'm excited to see this fresh take connect with audiences all over the world.”
“It’s incredible to witness the lasting impact of ‘Promised Land’ over the years, especially among some of the genre’s most influential figures like Lee Foss,” adds Joe Smooth. “The song’s message remains close to my heart, and I’m deeply grateful for versions like this that keep ‘Promised Land’ resonating with new generations.”
Dimitris Kechagias Review: [review top="1"] [item value="10"]Lee Foss & Joe Smooth - Promised Land [/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"] Lee Foss reimagines Joe Smooth’s seminal house track, “Promised Land,” incorporating disco elements to create a contemporary rendition for a new audience. The original, released in the late 1980s, remains an enduring anthem within the Chicago house music community. Foss’s remix skillfully combines modern techno house rhythms, playful basslines, electronic synthy riffs, and metallic percussion with the original vocals. This fusion results in a captivating track that resonates with young individuals who aspire to achieve their personal goals despite obstacles and challenges. The song’s powerful social message is reintroduced in 2024 through this distinctive futuristic interpretation, which will appeal to those who embrace innovation and revel in groundbreaking productions. It is certain to induce a sense of joy and movement through its infectious danceability. #PureGold Love IT [/content]
[item value="10"]Beat and Rhythm[/item] [item value="10"]Basslines and Groove[/item] [item value="10"] Melody [/item] [item value="10"] Synths [/item] [item value="10"]Breakdown[/item] [item value="10"]Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment[/item] [item value="10"]Intensity, Drive and Energy[/item] [item value="10"]Sound-design and Arrangement[/item] [item value="10"]Overall Atmosphere[/item] [item value="10"]Goosebumps / Shivers moments[/item] [item value="10"]Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments[/item] [item value="10"]Originality and Inventiveness[/item] [item value="10"]Radio Friendly[/item] [item value="10"]Vocals & lyrics[/item] [item value="10"]You can’t get this memorable track out of your head[/item] [item value="10"]It has potential to become an anthem or a classic[/item] [/review]
About Lee Foss
Chicago DJ and producer Lee Foss has achieved global recognition as an innovator of the modern underground house sound. His superb and unique ear for music is celebrated through the acclaimed releases on his award winning record labels Hot Creations and Repopulate Mars.
Lee’s love for house and disco was sparked during his adolescence in Chicago throughout the 90s, however, a trip to Ibiza in 2001 where he met best friend and copartner Jamie Jones changed his musical destiny forever. Inspired by the electro and deep house parties in Ibiza and East London at the time, they formed a band and produced chart-topping records together under their Hot Natured alias.
In 2008, Lee and Jamie founded Hot Creations and pioneered a new distinctive sound born of the founders’ deep affinity with soul and disco records. Notably, ‘Benediction’ and ‘Reverse Skydiving’ from the album Different Sides of The Sun by Hot Natured charted in the UK Singles Chart. In present day, the label was awarded Record Label of The Year by DJ Awards in 2019 and boasts productions by some of the most elite names in the industry such as Patrick Topping, Richy Ahmed, Solardo, Steve Lawler and wAFF.
In 2018, Lee launched Repopulate Mars and brought together the best names in house and techno under the label to achieve DJ Mag’s Best Breakthrough Label in the same year. Its intergalactic events have showcased internationally at renowned venues such as Space Miami and EGG London as well as securing co-branded ventures with top promoters Elrow and Insomniac.
Additionally, Lee runs sub-labels South of Saturn and Emerald City, exhibiting his comprehensive musical knowledge as well as a dauntless and experimental attitude to music that solidifies his legacy as a nonpareil industry trendsetter.
Joe Smooth is one the originators of the genre of music called “House Music” and since 1983 has been considered one of the top DJ's in Chicago, a highly skilled sound engineer, and world class certified platinum producer/composer/writer/re-mixer.
A self-taught musician from the age of 12, Joe Smooth is one of the pioneers of the style of music known today as “House Music”. He has worked with such artists as Frankie Knuckles, Marshall Jefferson, Chip E, A Guy Called Gerald, Lil Louis, Tyree Cooper, Fast Eddie, The Art Of Noise, Sterling Void, The Pet Shop Boys, Janet Jackson, Atlantic Starr, New Order, Steve Hurley... and countless more.
At 18, he opened his first underground nightclub called east Hollywood Mannequins. At 20, he became the head DJ at the now world famous Smart Bar nightclub, his nights attracted 2,000 people and DJ’s Frankie Knuckles and Ron Hardy would come listen to Joe’s sets looking for music to take back and play at their respective clubs, Joe Smooth’s musical prowess was the one instrumental factor that shaped the atmosphere and mystique that still lives at Smart Bar going into its 40th year.
In 1984, Joe Smooth joined the DJ International Records family. After joining the DJ International family he quickly became a central force behind almost everything written or produced from this visionary label. This included Co-producing The Jack Trax EP with Chip-E, the first record to use the words House and Jack. Many say this was the first true house record. Joe also Co-produced and mixed Frankie Knuckles' first record, the remake of "You Can't Hide".
In 1985, the Limelight looked at Joe as the number one DJ in Chicago and propositioned Joe for their Chicago nightclub as musical coordinator.
In 1987, along with Limelight, he also started working for the soulful Charlie club nightclub as head DJ/musical coordinator and penned one of the greatest house anthems of all time "Promised Land".
In 1988, with musical production work at a high Joe traveled abroad to put his concentration fully into his production, DJ gigs and Performing.
In 1990, CNN commissioned Joe Smooth to write a song as the music bed to be played during the airing of Nelson Mandela’s release after 27 years in prison. This song called “They Want To Be Free” talked about the wrongs of apartheid and oppression of the African people. Later in 1990 returning to Chicago from great success abroad, Joe saw a need for a serious underground house club in Chicago and opened the very successful Warehouse nightclub, named in tribute to the legendary Warehouse nightclub of the late seventies and early eighties with partners Julian Perez and DJ Internationals founder Rocky Jones. In 1994 Joe’s sought after talent led him to Rome to partner on a label called "Active Bass Music" with famous producer Claudio Donato. Which ran until 1999.
In 1999 Joe Smooth returned home to Chicago and did extensive work with Slang Music Group and Nu Soul until 2005. Joe's work at Slang and Nu Soul would include projects featuring Whitney Houston, Donnell Jones, Destiny’s Child and Sisqo and earn a multitude of Gold and Platinum RIAA awards.
From 2005 till today Joe’s “Obelisk Production Multimedia and Indie Art Music”” labels have released a string of house hits and has songs signed from worldwide artist such as Faith Evans, Syleena Johnson, K Ci and George Clinton, as well as more underground and up and coming artist and is currently in negotiations for worldwide distribution through a major distribution network.
Joe Smooth has worked hard to stay ahead of the curve and is often sought after to consult and mentor some of the world’s greatest producers, DJ’s and labels, like Ultra, Armada and Sony. He has a Joint Venture deal with Armada Music Group, he is currently an ambassador for The School of House based out of Amsterdam, working with a multitude of platinum artist worldwide, collaborating with Global DJ powerhouses like Benny Benassi and Alex Gaudino and working with the great charity organization LNADJ(Last Night A DJ). He is also one of the original organizers of Chicago’s Largest house music events held in Millennium Park yearly “The Chicago House Music Festival” and “The House Legacy Project” attracting 50,000 plus over the Memorial Day weekend. Joe Smooth has also expanded his role in the entertainment community in the role as producer and co-producer for TV and Film, involved in productions like “Casting Call Reality Show” created by Faith Diggs, Which can be seen on Firestick and Roku station ENVIO TV.
Armada Music is the biggest independent dance music label in the world. Founded by Armin van Buuren, Maykel Piron (CEO) and David Lewis, the label manages an ever-growing catalog of over 40,000 tracks, built up across twenty-plus years of specialized dance music exploitation.
Representing artists such as Armin van Buuren, ARTY, D.O.D, Eelke Kleijn, Jan Blomqvist, Loud Luxury, Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano, Tensnake, THEMBA and Yulia Niko, Armada Music amasses more than one billion streams per month, airplay on leading radio outlets such as BBC Radio 1 and Sirius XM, and top positions in the world’s most notable charts. The label also takes great pride in major achievements such as Armin van Buuren’s GRAMMY nomination for ‘This Is What It Feels Like’, Loud Luxury and Brando’s ‘Body’ surpassing one billion streams on Spotify and breaking artists such as Lost Frequencies into global stardom.
Across offices in Amsterdam (HQ), New York, London and Laren (NL), Armada Music offers a truly global appeal to its growing roster. The label has its own club, radio studio and multiple production studios, and hosts various live formats. Producer platform Armada University, which offers educational products and opportunities, shows the label’s sustained effort to nurture the next wave of talent.
In 2023, Armada Music launched BEAT Music Fund, the world’s first dance music investment company, that acquires catalogs with the mission of honoring, representing and reinvigorating them. BEAT’s portfolio will continue to grow; in the first six months following its launch, BEAT acquired the catalogs of, among others, electronic music star ARTY, house and techno pioneer Kevin Saunderson’s KMS Records, legendary NYC-based house label King Street Sounds and chart-topping producers Chocolate Puma.
1. Jonas Blue - ‘We Could Go Back’ feat. Moelogo (Todd Edwards Remix)
2. Jonas Blue - ‘We Could Go Back’ feat. Moelogo (Cristal Noir Remix)
3. Jonas Blue - ‘We Could Go Back’ feat. Moelogo (Julien Jabre Remix)
4. Jonas Blue - ‘We Could Go Back’ feat. Moelogo (Syn Cole Remix)
Jonas Blue, the UK’s biggest breakthrough act, has unveiled a 4-track remix package of his latest single ‘We Could Go Back’. Having recently released the acoustic version of the single featuring vocalist Moelogo, the DJ and songwriter has recruited the likes of Todd Edwards, Cristal Noir, Julien Jabre and Syn Cole to rework his infectious track.
Kicking things off with his own interpretation, Grammy Award winner Todd Edwards utilises a hypnotic collage of chopped melodic piano beats to create an upbeat house anthem, packed with disco-flavoured grooves. The mix is a stark contrast to Cristal Noir’s rework, with the French duo favouring a down tempo, 80’s electronica feel, laced with retro synth sounds. A more rumbling production that relies on emotive analogue synths, Julien Jabre’s remix has already been championed by Pete Tong on his BBC Radio 1 show. The remix marks his return to house music, famed for tracks like ‘Swimming Places’ and ‘War’, following a 5 year hiatus.
With producer Syn Cole rounding off the remix package, the Estonian’s frenetic build soon gives way to an explosive drop to create a striking trap anthem, and follows on from his rework of Jonas’ summer smash ‘Mama.’
With the original of ‘We Could Go Back’ already surpassing 12 million Spotify streams, the mesmerising single has topped the Cool Cuts Charts, hit the #2 spot in Shazam’s Dance Chart, and has been in solid rotation across UK radio, with the likes of Kiss and Capital FM playing the track on-air.
A permanent fixture in the charts, Jonas Blue has surpassed 3 billion streams worldwide. With 3 Top 5 UK singles to his name already, Jonas Blue is now ready to build on his monumental success in the coming months.
His debut single, ‘Fast Car’ became 2016’s biggest-selling single globally from a British debut artist and earned him two BRIT award nominations – ‘British Single’ and ‘British Artist Video’. Jonas’ second single ‘Perfect Strangers’ featuring JP Cooper picked up platinum sales awards around the globe, while his third release ‘By Your Side’ helped launch the career of rising British artist Raye. More recently he has had monumental success with ‘Mama’ which spent 20 weeks in the Top 40 and sold over 800K in the UK.
Away from the charts, the British hitmaker recently announced the next instalment of his Electronic Nature party series. From its successful debut at London’s Ministry of Sound earlier this year, Jonas will take-over Electric Brixton on Saturday 27th January 2018, for his biggest ever hometown club show to date. Before this momentous occasion, Jonas will be returning to The O2 to perform at Capital FM’s Jingle Bell Ball on Saturday 9th December, in what will be his final live show in the UK this year. Equally comfortable onstage and in the studio, Jonas Blue is currently working on his debut album, set to establish him as the UK’s biggest homegrown star.
Dimitri Kechagias review:
[review top="1"]
[item value="10"]Beat and Rhythm[/item]
[item value="10"]Basslines and Groove[/item]
[item value="10"] Melody [/item]
[item value="10"] Synths [/item]
[item value="10"]Vocals and Lyrics[/item]
[item value="10"]Breakdown[/item]
[item value="10"]Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment[/item]
[item value="10"]Intensity, Drive and Energy[/item]
[item value="10"]Sound-design and Arrangement[/item]
[item value="10"]Overall Atmosphere[/item]
[item value="10"]Goosebumps / Shivers moments[/item]
[item value="10"]Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments[/item]
[item value="10"]Originality and Inventiveness[/item]
[item value="10"]Dancefloor Efficiency / Festival Arenas Effectiveness[/item]
[item value="10"]You can’t get this memorable track out of your head[/item]
[item value="10"]It has potential to become an anthem or a classic[/item]
[item value="10"]Jonas Blue - We Could Go Back[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]While the original and Jack Wins remixes played in clubs now the remix package gets even more extended with additional new style versions. Cristal Noir version has certain nu disco/indie dance touch with electronic synths, smooth grooves, late night strings and sexy atmosphere. Todd Edwards version takes us back in time with old school house influences so you can expect classic organ riffs upon the raw punchy basslines, pounding grooves and early 90's UK garage and Chicago house colours. Julien Jabre goes for deep dark moody basslines with cool synths and Ibiza feel good atmosphere that slowly builds and offer wholeheartedly the pay off moment to raise the roofs. Syn Cole deliver the classy trap meets dubstep version with the chilling grooves, uplifting synths, piano chords and even some acid funk touches. Truly special so better don't miss it! #PureGold Love IT [/content]
Koolwaters Recordings get deep down & dirty as we welcome a fine purveyor of bass driven House music, XYPO to the label! Having already amassed a cult following on his ‘Deep Mix Nation’ YouTube channel it’s clear that Janis Dzenis AKA XYPO is steadily making his way up through the House ranks…
Deeply delicious with a fine groove to boot ‘Chicago Shakedown’ is a late night bass laden cut loaded with attitude and flare. Rolling percussion and old skool tech stabs unite with a mischievous booming bass line to spawn a dance floor destroyer suitable for working the 3am crowd up into a frenzy!
Dimitri Kechagias review: XYPO is on Koolwaters and you can guess easily that we deal here with a winner. If you like your house music old school but most importantly #purehouse you are going to appreciate Chicago Shakedown. With great rhythm that make you wanna stand up, shake and dance a long and groove that is dark and hypnotic along with great male vocal samples turn this record into an explosive journey of night ride in the cold dark roads of London. Superb Chicago and UK garage house influences in one powerful cocktail that will be served cold and refreshing in beach bars and clubs in your favourite holiday destination. What about Crete in Greece? #TrueHouse Love It
Dimitri Kechagias review: The Nights is the current Top 10 in UK from the Swedish star Avicii. Now I have in my hands two of the great remixes that are out on all major download shops. Firstly is Mike Mago who does his best to bring the house down and delivers his exceptional Future House version that is upfront and ready for mainstage action. Vintage influences, bouncy old school basslines, tough techy grooves, rave style synths and superb application of the original vocals. Grant Nelson delivers the more dark and twisted deep house version that has elements of what we tern now deep house but actually has Chicago house influences as well. Very classy, functional and rounded version with the vocals stay in the background and the dark bassline driving the action. Top notch remixes for a global smash for Avicii who will perform at this years Tomorrowland festival. Love it