Ah, California; the new “American dream,” a sun-soaked, golden-coasted paradise where the majority of the people are the only thing more beautiful than the beaches. The rest of the country seems under the impression that so much time in the sun has fried our brains, but they’re just jealous that we practically never have to check the weather. Sure, there might be an influx of literal beach bums, but can you really blame them?

Summing up the Golden State vibes through an upbeat tech-house filter is Montreal-based producer Richey‘s new sophomore EP, “Call Cali.” The 20-year-old phenom has left his mark on some of the most renowned labels in underground dance music, such as John Digweed’s Bedrock, Nicole Moudaber’s MOOD, and Jamie Jones and Lee Foss’s Hot Creations. Not even a minute into his EP’s self-titled track, it’s easy to understand why Richey is continuing to blaze a promising trail that is uniquely his own. The four tracks of techno bliss whisk the reader off on an invigorating, dance-heavy journey with just the right amount of funk and sexy vocal hooks, such as in “Call Cali, “Know Want Love,” and “Oh Hey Uh.” Their energetic and flirtatious nature make them the perfect soundtrack for the warm-weather day parties that California is so well known for–I’m about to make myself a mimosa just thinking about it. The second half brings the listener straight to the club, with hard-hitting “Rastafara” and “Haze” to finish it up with pulsating, throbbing bass fitting for one of Cali’s fabled warehouse parties. Before you know it, you’ll be a sweaty zombie emerging to the sun rising somewhere in the industrial district with ringing ears and a newfound respect for Richey.

I personally find Richey’s new releases to be incredibly refreshing–he incorporates the drive of minimal tech house with funky melodies and vocal hooks to keep the music fun without losing its underground appeal. I’m looking forward to more material from him as his sound continues to mature. Richey is giving a free download of Call Cali to his new fans on his Soundcloud page, so grab yours and channel those west coast feels!

26

Add to the story...