Gene on Earth is a unique presence in the minimal House scene, skillfully balancing his distinctive sound while staying trendy and at the forefront of modern music. As an established tastemaker, Gene has cultivated a reputation for his ability to innovate within the genre while maintaining a sense of familiarity that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers. His approach to music production is characterized by a meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that each release is not only a reflection of his artistic vision but also a significant contribution to the evolution of house music.
His long-awaited EP, “The Velvet Edge,” marks the 9th release on his own label, Limousine Dream. This collection features four dynamic house tracks guaranteed to energize any gathering. The anticipation surrounding this EP is a testament to Gene’s influence and the high expectations of his audience. Each track is meticulously crafted, ensuring there are no fillers—only bangers. The EP showcases Gene’s versatility, with each track offering a unique listening experience while maintaining a cohesive sound that ties the entire project together.
The EP opening track “Roger Dodger” is a slow-burning House groover with a hypnotic melody and quirky phone samples in the background. This track opens the EP with a steady, captivating rhythm that draws listeners in. The hypnotic melody weaves through the track, creating an immersive atmosphere. The quirky phone samples add an element of surprise and intrigue, setting the stage for the unexpected twists and turns that characterize Gene’s music. The track is spiced up with heavily affected, sexy House vocals that enhance its allure, making it a standout opener.
Closing the A-side it is “The Paddle” or a modern psychedelic House tune with funky, feel-good vibes and a groovy bassline that keeps you moving. “The Paddle” is a vibrant and energetic track that infuses the EP with a sense of playfulness. The funky, feel-good vibes are infectious, encouraging listeners to lose themselves in the music. The groovy bassline is the driving force behind the track, providing a steady foundation for the psychedelic elements to shine. The combination of these elements creates a track that is both uplifting and mesmerizing.
Kicking off the B-side it’s “Fan Man” – A minimalistic acidic House roller featuring gentle yet intense ravy breaks, enhanced with modern twisted trancy effects. “Fan Man” takes a more experimental approach, blending minimalistic and acidic house elements to create a unique soundscape. The gentle yet intense ravy breaks add a layer of complexity, keeping listeners on their toes. The modern twisted trancy effects further elevate the track, giving it a futuristic edge that sets it apart from traditional house music. This track exemplifies Gene’s ability to push the boundaries of the genre while staying true to its roots.
The B2, “Only The Phony Will Be Lonely“, is a fresh Techhouse track, featuring captivating female vocals, bone-shaking breaks, lysergic pads, and an advancing bassline. It is indeed a powerful statement that leaves a lasting impression and therefore qualifies as the EP’s closing track. The female vocals add an emotional depth to the track, while the bone-shaking breaks and lysergic pads create a dynamic and immersive listening experience. The delightful bassline provides a sense of tension and release, making the track a fitting conclusion to the EP.
“The Velvet Edge” EP reaffirms Gene on Earth’s status as a top-tier producer, continually pushing the boundaries of modern minimal house music. Each track on this EP is a testament to his creativity and technical prowess, showcasing his ability to innovate while maintaining a distinct and recognizable sound. Gene on Earth’s dedication to his craft is evident in every aspect of this release, making “The Velvet Edge” a must-listen for fans of House music and beyond. This EP not only cements his place in the current music scene but also sets the stage for future explorations and innovations.
Words by Pasha Pliskin
