DJ Yellow – No Way You Can Sleep review

Artist: DJ Yellow
Title: No Way You Can Sleep
Label: Plastic City
Genre: Deep House, Minimal House/Tech House
Format: 12″, Digital
Buy From: Juno Records, Juno Download

DJ Yellow releases are something of a rarity these days. That reason gives this release an exciting feel instantly but in actual fact, it’s special in its own right and that begs the simple question – why don’t we see more of his productions out there anymore? “No Way You Can Sleep” proves in one crisp swoop that he’s still got what it takes by showcasing three original tracks of deep, soulful house with an irresistible groove.

Alain Ho is a man who has seen genres grow and evolve around him over the years. During the 80s he played a large part within the French hip-hop scene before becoming an instrumental figure within French house music. Renowned for being forward thinking and clearly still influential today, we can only hope that this will be the first in a string of new productions from the Frenchman.

The title track effortlessly blends deep, funky and tech house into just over seven and a half minutes, maintaining both a deep and driving vibe courtesy of a relentless groove and intricate percussion. “I Know What You Need” maintains much of the energy of its predecessor but delves in darker territory with barely audible, slow male vocals and a pulsating bassline. “Reflection on the Self” is much more playful, with swirling synths, allowing the track to take on a warm feel that is further accentuated by the hushed, French vocal.

What makes this such a strong release is DJ Yellow’s clever combination of the deep and the funky. These can be difficult disciplines to merge at times but he manages it throughout, always keeping the focus very much on the dancefloor. Well done Plastic City for bringing DJ Yellow back once again – long may he stay.

Review: Tom Jones