[ProgCity Deep Trax]

A criticism I often hear leveled at younger DJs is that big tracks are too enticing to us (the logic goes), thereby limiting our ability to build sets with valleys ands peaks — instead of just the latter. Whether or not it’s a fair charge, it raises an issue worth addressing: tracks with bountiful personality and distinct, hands in the air hooks often get the most coverage on blogs and websites while singles that are valuable despite being not as instantly memorable get passed over. For the most part this makes sense, because most blogs and smaller websites don’t have the time, staff or resources to cover less explosive stuff. It’s my hope to review more low profile tracks that are still worth readers’ time. Peter Grummich seems to hover just below the radar, with a decade long discography spanning Kompakt, Mule, Sthlmaudio, Spectral and Shitkatapult just to name a few. His latest — and fourth so far this year — comes to us from ProgCity’s Deep Trax sub-label; and while it might not make you sit up and take notice, chances are you’d smile and keep dancing as it slid into view.

With its multiple exits and entrances, as well as its panoramic-view melodies, “Mountain” is a good friend to DJs trying to build momentum. [It was also featured on yesterday's mix.] Grummich stretches generous, slowly changing pads that drift by like majestic glaciers — not unlike his Pop Ambient material. It’s a neat contrast next to the dry, multi-faceted percussion which keeps the tune spirited and danceable. Braver DJs will jump in halfway to utilize the glimmering arpeggios at the tune’s crest and execute a slowly unfolding blend. Its flipside is less appealing but could still prove useful. Buoyed by a steadfast rhythm bubbling below, Grummich explores permutations of limited, grainy synth line, as if trying to solve a Rubic’s cube. Unfortunately, it’s about as exciting as that sounds. Still, the “Ultramatic EP” will likely keep dancers reveling even if they don’t charge the booth.