Artist: Blake Jarrell
Title: Okoboji
Label: Proton Music
By: Jason Calvert | 28 December 2005
Tracklist:

• 1. Original Mix
• 2. Opencloud 'Big Chief' Mix

Blake Jarrell "Okoboji"

Proton Music are back at it again, this time with an intricate number titled "Okoboji" from the ever consistent Blake Jarrell. This is also the track featured in their latest remix contest; however this time we are seeing an earlier release of the Original Mix packaged alongside a mix from the Opencloud boys. The competition closes on February 9, 2006, so sometime after this date we can expect to see the remix package surface. Until then however, there is quite a bit to enjoy from this release!

Jarrell has crafted quite an emotive track here, and as we progress through the various movements of the composition we experience many different moods. The many elements are laid upon a breakbeat foundation, and overall have quite a bright and melodic feel to them. The highlight however is an epic string breakdown about mid-way through, which is truly breathtaking to say the least. It is evident that a lot of work has gone into crafting this track, and Jarrell really shows off his talent here.

Potter and Spengler throw down a very contrasting remix. The whole composition has a very heavy feel to it, with some banging percussion and many other twisted elements to it. As a stand alone production it works well, but when remembering that this is a remix of "Okoboji", one may have a slightly different opinion. I found it quite hard to see much of a connection to the Original Mix. I know that many people will still love this remix, and I do appreciate it, but I just get the feeling that somewhere along the way it lost sight of the Original.

Both mixes stand up well in their own right, targeting very different moments in a set. It will be interesting to see what comes of remix contest. If the past is any indication of what we can expect this time, we are up for quite a treat!