Round 1 : I'm Your Brother 12"

Moritz von Oswald and Mark Ernestus helped to reinvent the sound of European techno in the 1990s through their work as Maurizio and Basic Channel. The duo were key figures in the growing dub techno scene and were constantly blowing wigs back with their releases. At the same time they were turning out incendiary tracks on their Basic Channel imprint they were releasing house on the sly through Main Street Records. "I'm Your Brother" was the label's first outing and is an uplifting ode to New Jersey garage house. Loosely based on The Isley Brothers "Caravan Of Love," the track features the vocals of Andy Caine, and is one of the skippiest, most uplifting soulful garage house tracks ever. One that is sure to get even the most sullen of party goers in to more positive spirits. On the flip Chez Damier and Ron Trent provide a rework that is every bit as powerful with a darker, more minimal edge to it. Recommended.

• music label: Main Street Records 1994

reviewed by Joey Coco 03/2013