Footprintz At Juno Download

Review: Canadian duo Footprintz have begun to establish themselves as one of Visionquest's more interesting acts. Their unflinchingly contemporary take on synth pop often has a greater emotional resonance than other material on Seth Troxler's imprint. "Utopia" is another blissful tearjerker, delivering the sort of E'd-up pop gorgeousness that sounds like a cross between New Order, Behaviour era Pet Shop Boys and, of course, contemporary deep house. The remix package is strong, too, offering contrasting versions from Jimmy Edgar and Tiga. The former slows the pace and adds a dash of analogue dirt to the original's synth-pop template, while the latter thrillingly flits between darkroom boogie and '90s piano house.

Review: Rumours have been circulating on the Internet that Montreal duo Footprintz have gone their separate ways. If these are to be believed (and they certainly seem to be true), this debut full-length for Visionquest could also be their swansong. If it is, then it's a fine way to go out. Assisted on production duties by the ever-reliable Ewan Pearson, the Canadian pair has delivered a tactile, touchy-feely collection of dream-pop (think Holy Ghost or Benoit & Sergio meets '89 shoegaze) that gleefully breaks free from the shackles of Visionquest's impersonal trademark sound. Woozy, warm and inviting, it should appeal to those who enjoy the work of fellow Canadian synth-poppers the Junior Boys.

Review: More from Visionquest regulars and rising stars Footprintz, whose decidedly touchy-feely approach epitomises the label's vision. "Uncertain Change" actually sounds like a Benoit & Sergio track, all woozy vocals, atmospheric pads, new wave-influenced grooves and casual synth-pop charm. Maceo Plex provides the first remix, upping the energy levels thanks to some bolder beats, big builds and lovingly played chords. The real standout, though, is the Audio rework - Matthew Dear's first under the guise for sometime. Wonky, strange, atmospheric and eerie, it turns the shuffling original into a stunning chunk of afterparty oddness.