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Continuing to position themselves as one of the underground dance scene’s esteemed labels, GMJ and Matter’s Meanwhile unveils their third release – the ‘Cosmic’ EP – featuring three exceptional tracks courtesy of one of Holland’s finest sound-artists, the inimitable Roger Martinez, an entirely unique master creator of intensely vivid electronic music. Seemingly able to connect with the sonic tapestry woven into the fabric of the cosmos, he positions himself at the centre of a very exciting musical universe.
‘Space Consciousness’ opens proceedings with its mesmeric melodic arpeggio, backed by a metronomic kick. Hitting its stride, a perfectly weighted bassline joins with its perfectly mirrored phrasing. By maintaining a relentless energy throughout, subtle percussive flourishes and clever motifs create an opening statement of wonderful intensity and creativity.
The aptly titled ‘Cosmic Drum’ thrives with a rolling percussive groove that ties effortlessly to a syncopated sub-bassline. Building layers effortlessly, luscious pads meander through the mid-range as rhythmic patterns hypnotise with their inexorable driving force. Pausing momentarily, melodic elements come to the fore swimming across the stereo spectrum, before they are once again joined by the driving rhythm flowing into the track’s second half.
‘80s’ concludes proceedings with its relaxed character and soft melodic flow. Roger Martinez effortlessly works his way through a remarkable 10-minute voyage of discovery: arpeggiated riffs dance in random patterns alongside a sonic palette of textured pads and shimmering keys. Simultaneously, a framework of hypnotic beats and 16th patterned open hi-hats create a rhythmic cadence of their own against the free-flowing melodic elements and breathy vocal phrases that emerge post-breakdown. The result is a highly innovative and original work that showcases Martinez’s distinctly unique talent.
An artist who has always been in perfect symbiotic touch with the club-goers that experience sets, Roger Martinez has consistently found himself able to paint vivid sonic landscapes that he constantly adapts and refines during his unforgettable DJ performances. A firm favourite throughout the clubs of his Amsterdam home and beyond, to a multitude of global audiences, Martinez draws inspiration from a vast array of sources and experiences, including travel, spiritual practices and modern dance music. This vibrant and diverse mix keeps him at the vanguard of electronic music with a unique ability to communicate a dynamic message through his music.
Over 250 production credits, stretching back over 15 years, is a mightily impressive accomplishment. Finding his way onto some of the finest modern dance imprints, Martinez has seen his work featured on the likes of Lost & Found, Armadillo, Sudbeat, Outside The Box, Perspectives Digital and many others. Hitting the heights of the Beatport charts on a regular basis, his own Higher States imprint enables him to mine a rich musical seam with his own work and a host of talented others. Now, with his Meanwhile debut ‘Cosmos’ set to make a huge impression, Roger Martinez’s star continues to rise inexorably.
Release date: Beatport & Spotify Exclusive – July 3rd, 2020 / All Stores – July 17th, 2020