Artist: The Greek Feat Stephanie Vezina
Title: Alive
Label: Shinichi Recordings
By: Chad Harnish | 2 December 2003
Tracklist:

• A: G-Pal Funky Dub
• B: Original Mix
• C: Dub Mix
• D: G-Pal Strings Of Life Mix

The Greek Feat Stephanie Vezina "Alive"

The Greek (aka Tone Depth) has become a new favorite of mine along with his sometimes partner Sultan. I am fascinated with all of their releases whether together or apart. Here on this single, The Greek teams with the beautiful vocal talent of Stephanie Vezina (whose vocals have previously graced Sultan and Tone Depth’s productions) to deliver another hit for Shinichi, as if there was ever any doubt.

The Original mix of “Alive” jumps straight to the chase and Stephanie Vezina is quickly introduced over a rock solid rhythm. Melodies of strings wash over the soundscape in choice areas of the track accenting the sanguine aura that The Greek builds on “Alive.”

Using a solid base of “Alive,” Gpal takes the track to a new level. The power is stepped up a notch, a hint of darkness has been added, and the pure emotion building drive has grown in exponential levels. Stephanie, while still essential to the track has taken a less prominent part in the “Stings of Life Remix.” Rather, as the title suggests, it is the strings that radiate through. The breakdown is gorgeous with a deep growling bass line and bright sparkling synth washes. This is where Stephanie’s true impact can be felt. Somber harmonies and pretty piano melodies wrap up the track leaving you in a pure emotional state. A great remix of a great original.

Gpal delivers a second mix to this already complete single, namely the “Funky Dub.” Teasing the melody with effects and tweaking samples of Stephanie, Gpal dubs the funk out on this mix. The mood stays darker and the body is more minimal than the “Strings of Life Remix”. The percussion and rhythm are expertly crafted and building elements of melody are inspiring. I find more emotion and beauty in the “Funky Dub” mix and is my pick of the pack.

Stephanie Vezina continues to collaborate with various House producers, as well as underground Hip hop artist and producer El-P. She also makes her cinematic debut this year with two instrumental pieces appearing in Montreal director Francois Blouin’s first feature film. Her debut solo album “War of love” is due for release in 2004.