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Eddie Merced’s R4808n label continues to evolve as a platform for the Hartford-based producer’s distinctive take on house and techno. It was forged amidst a wave of inspiration around the secrets and mythologies attached to the US military, its clandestine research, and operations, but it’s also a vessel for music about real life and the emotional journeys we all undertake.
That heartfelt spirit comes through in abundance on the third release on R4808n, not least on the enriching uplift of ‘Spiritual Protection’. The ethereal swirl of vocals hovers over a slick, bubbling set of synths and a rolling, pattering beat that peaks and troughs with the poise of the consummate club rocker. ‘Santero Palero’ offers up something different, digging deeper into the human connection at the heart of Merced’s work with a tribal percussive focus and dreamy melodic brushstrokes which feed into a subtle but transcendent whole. ‘Afro-Rican Soul’ expands on this theme with a densely woven fabric of organic drums, powerful vocal samples, and a stirring bank of pads that chart a course for paths unknown.
As the R4808n story unfolds further, Merced’s sonic fingerprint grows in complexity and mystery, yet still, the fundamental facets of deep-diving house and techno bind everything together fluidly. There’s no telling where the journey might take you next, but the consistency and high quality of Merced’s work are assured.
Release date: December 9th, 2022.