In the illustrious realm of House music, where the echoes of the past reverberate alongside the innovations of the present, Italian label Theory Of Swing Records stands as a bastion of reverence for the golden era of 90s styled House music. Under the discerning stewardship of the esteemed St. David, the label unveils its ninth release, a jewel in the crown of nostalgia, courtesy of Bari-based artist R.O.P Underground Traxx. Bearing the moniker Rhythm Of Paradise, R.O.P masterfully transports listeners back to the hallowed roots of Detroit House, infusing each track with a potent blend of soulful melodies and late-night rhythms. As the EP unfolds, it becomes evident that each composition is a meticulously crafted homage to the era where the rhythm reigned supreme, building over countless bars with an organic ebb and flow that ensnares the senses. With Side A opening with the triumphant anthem “Feel My Body,” and Side B closing with the evocative “Keep Me Inside,” R.O.P delivers a quintet of tracks that capture the essence of House music’s heyday, promising an auditory journey that transcends time and space.
As Side A unfurls its sonic tapestry, the listener is greeted by the triumphant strains of “Feel My Body (Classic Underground Mix),” a classic hymn of glory that harkens back to the early days of House music’s ascension. With its organ-infused melodies and uplifting vibe, this track serves as a poignant reminder of the euphoria that once permeated the dancefloors of yesteryear. R.O.P’s masterful composition evokes comparisons to the revered releases of UMM, capturing the essence of a bygone era while infusing it with a contemporary flair. Indeed, “Feel My Body” emerges as an instant classic, a testament to the enduring power of House music to elevate the spirit and ignite the soul.
Following the euphoric crescendo of the original, Theory Of Swing Records label boss St. David steps into the fray with a bold reinterpretation of “Feel My Body.” Eschewing the lavish adornments of the original, St. David opts for a stripped-down approach, delivering a raw and visceral remix that pulsates with primal energy. With each beat, the listener is drawn deeper into the sonic abyss, as St. David deconstructs the composition to its bare essentials, exposing the raw essence of House music in all its unbridled glory. This remix serves as a testament to St. David’s prowess as both an artist and a curator, offering a fresh perspective on a timeless classic.
Transitioning to Side B, R.O.P invites listeners to embark on a journey through the early to mid-90s sound with “I Get High,” a pulsating ode to the euphoria of the dancefloor. Here, R.O.P expertly blends elements of soulful melody and infectious rhythm, crafting a composition that captures the essence of House music’s golden era. With its infectious groove and ethereal atmosphere, “I Get High” stands as a testament to R.O.P.’s ability to evoke nostalgia while pushing the boundaries of sonic exploration. As the beat builds and crescendos, the listener is swept away on a tide of euphoria, lost in the intoxicating rhythm of the music.
As the EP reaches its penultimate track, R.O.P delivers “Flash Back,” a hypnotic groove that captivates the senses and transports the listener to a realm of pure sonic bliss. With its pulsating bassline and entrancing melodies, this track exemplifies the quintessential elements of House music at its finest. As the rhythm takes hold and the synths soar, “Flash Back” works its magic in all the right ways, ensnaring the listener in its hypnotic embrace. With each bar, R.O.P demonstrates a mastery of atmosphere and groove, inviting the audience to lose themselves in the timeless allure of House music’s hypnotic pulse.
Closing out the EP with an emphatic flourish, R.O.P unleashes “Keep Me Inside,” a testament to the enduring influence of the Chicago House scene on his sonic aesthetic. Here, R.O.P. seamlessly blends elements of deep house and acid grooves, crafting a composition that pulsates with raw energy and unbridled passion. From the driving bassline to the ethereal pads, “Keep Me Inside” captivates the listener with its infectious rhythm and undeniable charm. As the EP draws to a close, R.O.P. leaves listeners with a sense of euphoria and longing, a reminder of the transformative power of House music to unite souls and elevate spirits.
In conclusion, R.O.P’s Underground Traxx’s EP stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of 90s styled House music, a sonic journey that transcends time and space to capture the essence of a bygone era. With each track, R.O.P demonstrates a profound understanding of the genre’s roots, while pushing the boundaries of sonic exploration with a contemporary flair. From the triumphant strains of “Feel My Body” to the hypnotic grooves of “Flash Back” and the raw energy of “Keep Me Inside,” this EP is a masterclass in House music craftsmanship, promising an auditory experience that will resonate with House heads old and young alike. As Theory Of Swing Records continues to champion the timeless allure of House music, R.O.P’s Underground Traxx’s EP “Project #1” stands as a shining testament to the label’s commitment to quality and innovation in the electronic music landscape.
Words by Holger Breuer
Torture the Artist 