UK Garage / 2 Step Recommendations April 2010

Review: Rush Hour’s Direct Current series follows up superb Falty DL Drop with a brand new, two track release from Cosmin TRG. Whilst keeping his dubstep mind in check, the Romanian takes on a housier sentiment during this release.



Cosmin Nicolae built a name for himself as TRG with dubstep productions for labels like Tempa, Hotflush and Hessle Audio. Indeed, "Put You Down" and Martyn’s remix are widely accepted as Hessle’s finest release. However, of late we have seen a shift in his production style. Moving away from the traditions of dubstep, Cosmin is currently pushing a sound that has more in common with strands of house music. Just like his recent double pack for Tempa, "Now You Know," we find him in a funky and compatible mode during "See Other People."



The whole release is an infectious amalgamation of house and garage. The title track is a garage stepper that posses true characteristic s of vintage house. A deep and swinging yet funky number, the track builds on its foundation of UK and US garage functions to forge its unique sound. Soulful vocals give the track a classic shine as an easy and contented vibe remains throughout. This is futuristic R&B at its very best. On the flip, the Bucharest native starts off in garage mood but morphs into succulent Detroit techno. Following limber 2-step syncopations, "Groove Control" crosses over into deep Detroit techno, evolving into a pulsating, acidic bassline groover.



Cosmin TRG has made an impact in various electronic styles since he arrived in 2002. It is his passion for fresh new sounds and his adventurousness in exploring them that have enabled him to do this. As he currently delves into a funkier house sound as on "See Other People," we can only ask ourselves, what will be next?