Artist: Blackwatch & Greed
Title: Gentle Rain (2004 Remixes)
Label: SOG Chrome
By: Simon Jones | 13 May 2004
Tracklist:

• A1: Greed 2004 Pain Mix
• B1: Directors Cut Mix
• B2: Original Mix

Blackwatch & Greed "Gentle Rain (2004 Remixes)"

With one set of remixes from Blackwatch and Grayarea having appeared not so long ago, the second remix package of Blackwatch & Greed's 'Gentle Rain' drops, launching the new label SOG Chrome in the process. For those who missed the original version when it was available on promo around two years ago, never to see a full release, you will be pleased to know it's year in all it's glory, along with two new mixes from Greed himself.

Updating the track for this remix package, Greed creates the '2004 Pain Mix'. Stripping things back and dropping a funky bassline over the warm, sublime, groove that shimmers below. Subtle bass and snares sit within big void that is created and the vocal is kept to a minimum as the focus here is firmly on the driving funk, as Greed takes it squarely down the house route.

'The Directors Cut Mix' is a rocking breaky interpretation built around live instruments and a techy house groove. Big drums drift into the groove, with electric guitar hooks building the tempo up rapidly.towards a full on breakdown. Lesley's vocals break up the throw down, only for one final moment of rock bringing the mix to a close, and setting things up nicely for the original version.

Ah yes, the 'Original Mix'. Nothing has changed here. There's still the same subtle melodies and rolling beats that have the trademark of Blackwatch all over them, working in tandem with Tobi Wirz’s funky arrangements. The vocal is breathtaking, the percussion and synth arrangements are superbly weaved together and this is still one of the best original productions either producer has done, and one that both have yet to surpass.

A solid set of mixes, with the original having stood the test of time, and the two new mixes perfect for those who are looking for something a little less reclined and slightly more upbeat. SOG Chrome is off to a fine start, but the question is how do they follow on from this?