Artist: Manipura
Title: Blind Sheep
Label: Looq Records
By: Jason Calvert | 26 September 2005
Tracklist:

• A: Original Mix
• B: Jondi & Spesh Mix

Manipura "Blind Sheep"

In Hindu tradition, the Manipura is the third chakra (focal point of energy) in the body. And the energy is certainly focussed in this release from Norwegian Thomas Nokling, whom many would be familiar with as part of the Recluse outfit. Recently he has been causing waves with his massive interpretation of Coldplay's "X & Y" which has been doing the rounds as of late.

The Original Mix is a tight breakbeat excursion, running an tight and bass-heavy foundation along its lower levels. An uplifting melody makes its appearance to compliment this, and the overall result is very refreshing, and hopefully this will appeal to both fans of darker breaks and also fans of the more uplifting styles.

Looq's own Jondi & Spesh provide their own interpretation, and whip up a 4/4 time signature to get things going. A much stronger focus is placed on the melody, and with some re-arranging of certain elements, we get a very uplifting interpretation, which will definitely capture the ears of those who like their electronic on the trancier side.

Whilst maybe not standing up to former outings on the label like "Creep Phase" and of course Momu's classic "The Dive", this release certainly does boast many great elements. My own taste leads me to prefer the Original Mix, but trance fans across the globe have already warmly received the Jondi & Spesh Mix, so check it out and form your own opinion on them!