Simplon by Jean Caillou

Madloch's Sound Avenue enters 2022's second quarter by welcoming Jean Calliou back to the label for a new EP. First emerging in 2016, the Swiss artist quickly established himself with releases via Magician On Duty, RYNTH, Sag & Tre and Underyourskin Records, where his deep, melodious sound flourished. Moving forward, July of 2019 saw the Zurich resident make his Sound Avenue debut with a well-received remix of Joe Miller's ‘The Days'. Deep and enchanting in equal measure, its organic vibe immediately won over DJs and fans alike, sparking what has been a fruitful relationship between the Belgian imprint and Swiss artist. Now on the strength of 2021's ‘Departure Unknown', Jean makes a welcome return to Sound Avenue with a sprawling five-track showcase entitled ‘Simplon'.

Beginning with the title selection, Jean furthers the sentiment that his compositions drift above the rest of existence. Whether it's the hauntingly layered musical fragments or the sleek, meditative framework which houses his dusty percussive arrangements, there is a whimsical lean to his work that you just can't ignore. The deliberate groove and haunting vocal phrases of ‘Down' find Jean at his creative best. Perhaps less direct than some of his previous work, the end result is one of equal depth, where notes ring out in timeless suspension, resonating against a backdrop of colourful electronics. Meanwhile, ‘Feathered Serpent' lightens the mood with its charismatic charm and laid back, yet youthful exuberance. Jean's masterful coaxing of incandescent tones, soulful plucks and rolling organics fuels what is a charming eight-minute jaunt.

Bypassing the collection's halfway point are the slow burning vibes of ‘Hora'. Four minutes of glacial grooves and shape-shifting textures put the listener in a tranquil state, only to go further down the meditative rabbit hole as thoughtful vocal fragments and drone-like lines emerge for a suitably spaced-out finale. ‘Myst' sits as the collection's most heartfelt composition and appropriately lands as its fifth and final selection. Wavy arps, fluttery sonics and creamy piano stabs unite for a reflective storyboard, one which invites you to surrender to its captivating power and ultimately puts a stamp on this resounding collection.

Written by Mitch Alexander | www.releasepromo.com

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Founded in 2011 by Belgian DJ and producer Madloch, Sound Avenue is an electronic music label that stands for quality and originality. Borderless in vision, the Belgian imprint has forged a path to multiple musical dimensions. Blurring the boundaries between house and techno, it’s a platform for anyone with an open mind and ears.

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