When I first heard “Prototype” I thought it was just another awesome tune being played on Above & Beyond’s Group Therapy podcast by one of their regular Anjunabeats artists. Well, I was partially right, except I was surprised and delighted to hear it was the work of a brand new collaboration called Artificial, comprised of the awesome Andrew Bayer and Norin & Rad – two individual mainstays within the Anjunabeats family. I think this is a match made in genre-defying heaven, as the first single “Prototype” spotlights Bayer’s affinity for intricate melodies and Norin & Rad’s abilities to absolutely destroy dance floors (to this day, their set at NYC’s Roseland Ballroom as part of the Anjunabeats 10 release party was one of the hardest-hitting sets I’ve witnessed live). While I’ve focused a lot of blog posts on Norin & Rad, Andrew Bayer is definitely not someone to sleep on (check out his song “England” to see what I mean).
The Anjunabeats press team writes of “Prototype”:
“Originally road-tested by Norin & Rad at Cream Ibiza, and debuted to the world in Above & Beyond’s ABGT050 set at Alexandra Palace, “Prototype” is a hard-edged, progressive house monster. Building layers of innovative acid-tinged grooves, the track gives way to a deep musical piano breakdown that wouldn’t sound out of place on Andrew Bayer’s critically acclaimed iTunes #1 Electronic Album If It Were You, We’d Never Leave. Dropping back into a dark, bumping progressive groove, “Prototype” brings together a vast array of influences from progressive house, electronica and trance in unique style.”
This track is a powerful piece of work and I continue to be impressed by all parties involved. Make sure to show some love to the boys of Artificial and to keep an eye out for future releases!
Artificial – Prototype (Original Mix) | Purchase on Beatport