Now releasing his own material Benjamin Bates – Marco V’s studio partner for years – is rising fast (previous single ‘Whole’ did well last year in Europe). Don’t let the trance connection put you off though as people have linked him to the Swedish mafia (Axwell, Angello, Prydz, Ingrosso). Yet the two tracks on this 12” go further than pumping trad-house. ‘The Manimal’ is typically Dutch – US garagey flavour (Todd Terry) mixed with definite euro punch and loopy hook. However the real feast – set to be huge – is on the flip. ’16!’ is an infectious hybrid of house and synthrock that stands out from first listen thanks to its wicked bass riff and catchy vocal anchor.
5 Out Of 5
Reviewed By: Jerry Bouthier