[review] Various Artists - Split Personalities (Proper Trax)

Artists: Various
Label: Proper Trax
Release: Split Personalities EP
Date: 5/30/11

It's very rare that a new label is able to break through and create something memorable on its first impression. With so much music emulating past trends combined with new sounds, it's very easy to miss quality releases every now and then. When I received the promo for the new Proper Trax, a start-up label based out of Knoxville, TN, I wasn't sure what to expect. Having connected with Will Azada a year ago and keeping constant communication since, I was already well aware of his influences and interests through his one-offs he threw at local venue, Headroom.

The A-side of Split Personalities features two tracks reminiscent of Detroit techno under Will Azada's own name. Slow Jack features anthem chords and a brooding vocal, making this a perfect track for peak hour atmospheres. A2 moves into deeper waters, showing that Will can keep the rhythmic pace while establishing a calming mood for listeners. Side B opens with the track Bake Sale under Will's moniker The Funnel. Focus in sounds is immediately shifted to warehouse-era techno, filled with dark percussion and haunting bass. At this point in the record, it's very clear why Will chose Split Personalities as the name for this release. Closing out the release is a collaboration of Alex Michalski with Lee Crowe, a chilled-out tune with the famous 303 sound. While many acid tracks can be doldrums of their meaning, this one captures the pure essence in its very intended form.

Purchase the record direct from Will via Discogs to save on shipping and time when compared with International shops.

1. Will Azada – Slow Jack
2. Will Azada – Like Lovers Do
3. The Funnel – Bake Sale
4. Grey People – Lee Crowe Shadow Figure (feat Lee Crowe)