GHL – Slow Good review

Like so many organisations before them – Soma, Kompakt and Optimo are but a few notable examples – Electric Minds have developed organically. Starting off as a club night in London’s east end in the middle of the last decade, founder Dolan Bergin decided to set up a label that showcased the work of the artists that perform there. They have managed the rare feat of keeping the quality high with releases so far from established names like Steve Kotey, Ilija Rudman and Yam Who? as well newer artists.

The mysterious GHL may fall into the latter category, but on the evidence of “Good”, it sounds like this producer has been honing his/her skills for years. The title track is a driving, drummy workout, featuring hissing hats, thundering claps and an irresistible swinging groove – and such is the quality of the arranging that these elements sit seamlessly alongside a warm, liquid melody line.

“Show Me Love” sounds like it was inspired more by the UK’s house past than developments in the US. Featuring shuffling drums and a warm, snaking bassline underpinning sweet chords, the influences are made clear, with the rhythmic elements influenced by UK’ garridge’, while the sweet chords capturing classic UK deep house. That GHL is able to operate seamlessly at the middle ground between these classic styles bodes well for future appearances.

Richard Brophy