[Fine Art Recordings] (buy vinyl)

The Hebrew word “shalom” means peace but it’s also a greeting and sometimes a goodbye. For Roni Nachum, a young producer from Jerusalem, “Guest Service Shalom” is one hell of a hello. His vinyl debut, which so skillfully walks between deep house moods and techno’s edges, arrives care of the shrewd A&R work of Nitzan at Fine Art Recordings. It’s also backed by a superb, decompressing remix by Mark E.

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Although the term tech-house isn’t exactly en vogue at the moment, Nachum’s careful balance of placid tones and winding techno melodies is a fitting, vivid reminder of how fertile this middle ground can be. The slinky progression writhing on a bed of dusky chords is not unfamiliar, yet the combination grows more compelling with every bar as the tones sharpen. Nachum introduces clever snare and clap syncopations that drive home a rousing groove, but also relaxed, even peaceful vibes. Quite impressive for his first release. As he’s wont to do, Mark E crushes the BPMs to focus on the placid side of “Guest Service Shalom.” His snaking synth vamp is suspended in dreamy pads and gives way to a boogie beat and gregarious bass line that add enough muscle to draw warm up crowds onto the dance floor. A 10″ platter this precious won’t last long at only 300 copies, so you might want to get yours before it says “shalom” to stores’ shelves. And make sure to check out Roni Nachum’s next single for Future Classic.