We welcome Croatian outfit Cortex Thrill back at Bonzai Progressive as they kick off their 2023 with the superb ‘Dualismi (Yin)’, which is complimented with two top-notch remixes. Robert and Ivo have been stalwarts on the scene and for Bonzai for over 30 years, which is a testament to their passion for music. An exciting year lies ahead with new material in the works along with some retro goodness they are currently working on in the studio. Keep your ears peeled for more, in the meantime enjoy this new sonic experience.

Up first we have ‘Universal Dialectic’ which is a wonderfully textured construction which strikes a balance between cosmic realms and deeper progressive grooves. Laden with lush basses, shimmering synths and rhythmic percussions, the track chugs along relentlessly, drawing us in with emotive note changes and an air of mystery. The Original Mix of ‘Introspective’ follows, taking us a little deeper with a more focussed melodic arrangement. Beefy drums stack up alongside layered synths with a rolling bassline at the core. On the break, enchanting pads come through before the main groove returns for the final act. Former Cortex Thrill band member and fellow Croat Sven G aka Sven Gleda joins the roster with fantastic remix of ‘Introspective’. Sven was instrumental in the early successes of CT and is a revered artist on the music scene in his country. After stepping aside from CT, he moved into other musical ventures where he lends his expert knowledge in production and sound design. On the remix here, Sven opts for a more direct, punchy offering that will definitely get feet on the floors. A wonderfully tight production, the groove invites us in with solid beats, shuffling percussions and a mixture of soft melodics and harsher, striking synths. The Original Mix of ‘Dialectical Monism’ is the penultimate track, offering up a solid underground vibe right from the off. Chugging basses and bright synth plucks combine as a well-crafted drum display sets the rhythms loose. Subtle 303 lines appear against a backdrop of deep, chanting vox, making this one a definite must have. Fellow countryman Oversound aka Alen Kranzelic concludes the release as he debuts on Bonzai with a solid remix of ‘Dialectical Monism’. A DJ since 1995 Alen became a pioneer of the Croatian House Music scene, playing at top events throughout the country. In 1998 he hosted a local radio show and in 1999 he opened the first vinyl record shop in Croatia – Oversound, from where took his artist name. The remix here enters an even deeper realm, with a slow burning groove at the heart of the track. Gated vox and synths sweep through as a lush bass mesmerizes us with its sublime low-end power. Cinematic stabs, church bells and emotive melodies deliver an intriguing narrative which keeps the mind hooked while the feet take care of the dance moves.

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