Freckles / Echo by eleven.five

It has been a true joy to witness the rapid ascent of the exceedingly talented American artist eleven.five over the past 12 months, since his debut Silk release "Crispy". Thanks to a prolific output of quality uplifting progressive tracks, including the recent hit "The Way We Were" [Arrival], he has become a fixture on Above & Beyond's "Group Therapy" radio show and has even been featured on Armin's "A State of Trance" in recent months. We are thrilled to welcome him back to the imprint with "Freckles", his fourth contribution to Silk Music. This single comes equipped with a brilliant interpretation by label veteran Luiz B, as well as the B-side cut "Echo".

The Original Mix of "Freckles" begins with a chunky groove, as well as a "flirtatious", flute-tinged synth hook, a central theme throughout the track. At the end of the first mini-break, we are also met with another motif: a gorgeously processed female vocal stab. Following this short break, a deep, yet swingy groove enters the track; it's a rhythm that truly dares you not to skip along and bop your head. In the main break, the lead melodic element of the song, a beautiful piano progression, is solo'ed. It's a truly gorgeous and poignant theme that is only enhanced by the re-emergence of the bassline groove.

On remix duty, we enthusiastically welcome back Brazilian sensation Luiz B, a veteran contributor to Silk who clearly intends to make a big splash in 2013 and beyond. His remix jets out of the gate on an energetic, peak-hour note. Meanwhile, a jubilant repeating chord increases in resonance, as lush pads and dancing arp lines fill out the euphoric soundscape. The beat abruptly drops out in the main break, making space for the stunning piano theme, accompanied by various nature-inspired effects. In the latter half of the break, the lead chord reappears and begins to crescendo, in the tradition of "classical" melodic progressive trance. We expect veteran fans of the genre to be greatly pleased with this effort by Luiz B, which strikes us a triumphant return to form.

The final track in the release is the deeper, more pensive "Echo". Seemingly drawing inspiration from the intriguing late-night soundtracks of Film noir, the song centers on various "after-hours" jazz effects, including an evocative saxophone effect. There is also a meaty low-end and rhythm section, which gives the track a full-bodied groove. In the main break, an ominous piano appears, perhaps indicating the protagonist's arrival at the crime scene. This cinematic and bold composition is another feather in the cap of eleven.five, who is quickly compiling an extensive and accomplished discography.