Artist: Montero
Title: Hairy Hits
Label: Renaissance Recordings
By: Simon Jones | 13 June 2006
Tracklist:

• A1: House Mix
• A2: Hairy Acapella
• B1: Original Mix
• B2: Hairy Acapella 2 (Filtered)

Montero "Hairy Hits"

The veteran production twosome of Graeme L and Dee Mcauley's debut release as Montero came back in the summer of 2004 when 'The Brazilia EP' was released. This was subsequently followed up a year late by 'Captain Hook', a track that went on become one of the standout tracks of Summer '05, also topping several charts and, and becoming one of the best sellers of the year. Jumping forward to Summer 2006, and the duo return once more with the follow up, 'Hairy Hits'.

Already a staple of the sets of James Zabiela, the 'House Mix' fuses drifting techy snares over a sleek electronic bassline, creating a mix that pounds away, with an understated groove leading the way forward with a somewhat hypnotic vibe. It may not be the most complex of arrangements, but the rising snare lead certainly works wonders on the dancefloor.

The 'Original Mix' goes down the percussive route, a more restrained tempo allowing the elements of the track to rise through. The Latin drum patterns and Balearic style groove wouldn't be out of place on a Hed Kandi or Cafe Del Mar cd, as the track subtly twists and builds to a climax. As usual the pre-requisite tools and acapellas that seem to accompany most releases on the Renaissance label are present, which will no doubt appeal to the more creative DJ mindset.

Building on a foundation laid by great singles from Phonique and Hernan Cattaneo, 'Hairy Hits' is another cornerstone in the label's summer line up. With a string of compilations to come over the summer months, plus a new production offering from James Zabiela looming, the Renaissance movement is in full effect right now.