Awakening by James Harcourt

James Harcourt makes a welcome return to ICONYC. The English producer has had a prolific and hugely successful year. Releases on Siamese, Sum Over Histories, Renaissance and Sincopat have all been standouts while a memorable gig at the infamous Noisily tops a healthy tour schedule. Now as 2023 continues at a fast pace, James Harcourt lands back on ICONYC with a brand new two track EP.

The Harcourt sound is a tough thing to pin down. He is a unique act in the sense that emotionally his creations carry quite a large scope. He is not afraid to explore esoteric or introspective themes and the end result is always a compelling one. Such is the case with 'Awakening' which carries many of his most loved production hallmarks. From a warm, meaty low end to icy atmospherics and an effects storyboard to get lost in, there is certainly a lot to like. The main break is perhaps the high point, with the mood shifting from emotive to ominous with an effortless ease. It's something you rarely see and they've pulled it off beautifully here.

The companion piece 'Klug' is equally impressive, coming in with more drive and a darker feel overall. Once again, the storyboarding is unique, never quite doing what your brain thinks it will. Undisturbed and composed from an atmospheric perspective yet still with enough power and momentum to work remarkably well on the dance floor. Based around three synth motifs, one of which opens up dramatically during the main break, makes for a kaleidoscopic journey to round out the release in style. James Harcourt continues to be one of the undergrounds most sought after acts with this EP only adding to that sentiment. Highly recommended.

Tracklist

1.	Awakening [Original Mix]	7:30

2.	Klug [Original Mix]	5:47

Credits

released October 13, 2023

License