Tropicall – I Just Can’t Stop

Summer chasers with one foot in Brazil and the other in Barcelona, the Tree Sixty One label is pleased to present a new EP and highlight a couple of shifts. The artwork on the cover is a fresh look for them and the sounds contained within likewise incorporate a new style for Brazilian duo Tropicall, comprised of Ariel Haller and Fabio PSK who each have over two decades of production experience. Hoping to glorify the old and new school essence of disco, funk, and house music, the label’s aim is to provide a mix of classic and traditional soulful house blended with the most modern deep and garage takes on the sound. So far feedback has been solid, gaining support and play from house legends like Kerri Chandler, Danny Krivit, Tyree Cooper, and more. The I Just Can’t Stop EP with Tropicall featuring singers Bárbara Nay and Sabrina C is also sure to hit the mark.

The title track contains instantly familiar vocals and piano stabs that harken back to the good ol’ days while the rubbery bass line is in tune with the most forward sounds of today. In much the same ivory light, Bárbara Nay’s diva vocals on “Nightlife” are accompanied by classic pianos and a show-stealing bass display with responsive layered chords that share its slightly old school edge. “Sambahouse” is a serious percussive workout, as to be expected, making full use of Brazilian rhythms and once again giving way to a hybrid low end that also serves as a lead. Taking a darker turn, “Getaway” makes use of some rougher stylistic elements often found in the grimier corners of the UK. Sabrina C’s vocals are embellished and would not sound out of place in a pop song, but — make no mistakes about it — this one is headed straight for the underground clubs. Overall the release looks to the past while making forward progress, a tug of war in which the DJs and clubgoers will both win.