Niko Schwind At Juno Download

Review: New talent Niko Schwind provides a fresh take on minimal house for Oliver Koletzki's label. "Good Midnight" is a rolling, drum-heavy groove, but it's the use of dramatic woodwind samples that sets it apart. Every bit as suspense-laden as a scene from Die Hard, they give the track a real sense of adventure. "Shine" is slower and more groovy, with Schwind combining an infectious disco riff with soulful piano tinkling, while "Wake Up", featuring Stellar, follows this approach to its logical conclusion. Combing stacatto drums with jazzy keys, the end result is uplifting and swinging, yet boasting enough substance to rock the dancefloor. David August also delivers a killer, bass-heavy remix of "Good Morning".

Review: Niko Schwind is one of the new stars on Stil Vor Talent and on the evidence of this second release, there is no doubt that his reputation is deserved. "Back From The Bar" is a relatively standard minimal house arrangement, but Schwind stands out from the crowd thanks to his use of tasteful jazz keys and infectious filters. "Don't Turn The Lights On" sees Schwind impress further with a dark disco riff and some atmospheric horns, but the best tracks are "Master Of Ceremony" and "Good Morning". "Ceremony" is a drummy affair with irresistible sax samples and sensuous piano lines, while "Morning", which features Fran on vocals, is a dubbed out, delectable disco groove.