Artist: Guy J
Title: Never Say No EP
Label: Deep Focus
By: Devon Shaw | 4 August 2006
Tracklist:

• A1: Never Say No
• B1: Ligod
• B2: Moonkey

Guy J "Never Say No EP"

Fresh from Israel comes the three track 'Never Say No EP' of newcomer Guy J. Recently appearing on Proton Radio's Featured Artist show, this is his debut release for well-established label Deep Focus, and puts him alongside the likes of Özgür Can, Petter and Subsky. Guy treats us to a delightful execution of warm, minimalist, occasionally melody-driven house.

The title track 'Never Say No' introduces a pulsating bassline with a laid back introduction of offbeat hats and glitchy effects. The track cuts out for a moment, pausing momentarily to introduce arpeggiating snyths and a light but effective canopy of pads to fill the song's atmosphere. Blippy and subdued with a light tech edge, this track is prime for a warm-up set.

Next up, 'Ligod' takes us through a soft yet funky, tribal, housey number that answers the question of what would happen if Mick Burns and Abakus were to meet. The light synth hooks play well off each other, punctuating nicely through a persistent and stubborn bass line and creating a subtle groove that begs to be danced to. The strongest track of the release.

'Moonkey' offers a downtempo cool-down to bring a close to the EP. The song begins with a prominent, pulsating bassline and a collage of effects, leading the way into a pair of piano harmonies. Not a significant number of layers compose the arrangement, but beauty comes in the simplicity. Well done.

Overall an exceptional beginning for what's sure to be an enjoyable series of releases from the Tel Aviv-based 21 year old. New fans should be on the look out for Guy J's sophomore release 'Hazui', due soon on Electribe Records with a remix by Gui Boratto.