Artist: Ahmet Ertenu
Title: Why
Label: Nascent Recordings
By: Simon Jones | 24 January 2005
Tracklist:

• A: Original Mix
• B: Derek Howell Mix

Ahmet Ertenu "Why"

Ahmet Ertenu is the latest name to emerge out of Turkey, following in the footsteps of fellow countrymen Subsky, Yunus Guvenen, Mert Yucel and Murat Uncuoglu who have all been creating inroads to the global dance scene over the past few years. Initially a keyboard player and guitarist in his own rock band, Ahmet gradually became more influenced by the growing progressive scene that was occurring in Istanbul, and it was these foundations that lead to the creation of his debut single 'Why', the latest release on Nascent Recordings.

The 'Original Mix' has some nice progression, rolling along steadily, it's main appeal coming during the middle section as Ahmet leaves only subtle atmospherics and wistful melodies to develop, and gradually bringing each layer of percussion back in, adding a filtered edge to the final half of the track.

Building on the these ideas, 'Derek Howell' strips the track down to it's bare essentials, dropping a tough bassline into the centre and building layer upon layer of drums over the top. A heavy kick drum sets the tempo early on, with the incredible synth progression creating an energy that surges higher and higher. A real peak time moment ensues when the killer drop hits, hurtling into a twisted and techy climax that is most satisfying indeed.

Whilst the original is one of those niche tracks that will work best in a warm up or late night set, Derek Howell's reinterpretation is a mind blowing piece of work that fans of his recent Bedrock EP will definitely appreciate. Overall, Nascent Recordings continue to improve, with 'Why' continuing the run of great releases from the label in the past few months.