Buy link: bit.ly/3VnDLEs
“Have you ever had this endless feeling of unconditional love for someone or music, between virtuality and reality, which seems to be eternal for your own heart.” — Nicolas Masseyeff
French DJ and producer Nicolas Masseyeff share his first album in almost a decade on Marc Romboy’s label Systematic. The release brims with lush tones, electronica-flecked rhythms, and rich soundscapes, suitable for a club-based audience and home listening. Celebrated visual artist Yann Masseyeff—Nicolas’s brother—is responsible for the artwork of the release.
Nicolas explains the theme of the album. “‘Endless’ represents a melting pot of my influences. Eleven years after my first album, I wanted to fix the time again, about all the feelings I had in my heart when I was producing in my studio these past months. For me, the greatest value of a track is to stay nontemporal and go through the years and it’s the magic of music we all have some love for some old tracks the power of love this endless feeling something truly personal that you can share with the people.” Opening tune Present features a collaboration with fellow French artist Kittin, who shapes the track with her sultry vocals and seductive lyrics. Paired with Nicolas’ low-slung basslines and ascending keys, it’s a blissful introduction to a long-awaited album.
Naga unfolds with cinematic chords and lazy drums before a twinkling melody slips into the soundscape, creating a sun-kissed vibe apt for beachside listening or a walk at dusk. Amethyst whips up the pace with snappy drums and warbling pads, serving a dose of club-driven energy. The Balearic vibes are real.
Following the club-cut tip, Double Visage bristles with chunky kickdrums and fizzing high-hats, but a constellation of chords give an angelic feel. It’s a delicate balance between melodic and tech house. Handa comes next, offering a more minimal mood before a distorted melody snakes through the atmosphere, conveying a menacing air.
The title track is a beautiful, peak-time groover. Dominated by an enchanting synth line and opera-like vocals, it instantly lifts the spirits and draws the listener in until the last beat. At just over two minutes, Norakog begins in a hazy manner with a muffled bassline before crystal-clear keys swoop into the atmosphere, forming a magical interlude on the album.
With its wonky synth line and staccato piano notes, Ice Raven stands as the oddball track of the release, building tension and restrained energy with powerful drums and bleepy FX.
Release date: November 25th, 2022.