San Francisco’s Lawrence Stone has unveiled a new release under his Ménage à Moi moniker, and it’s undoubtedly his funkiest release to date. With a history including Beatport charting singles and remixes for major labels, Ménage à Moi steps back and pushes forward with “The Syrup” on 3am Devices, effectively cementing the label’s sound. The Syrup is here, and everyone loves breakfast!
The percussive bass line and laid-back, head bobbing drums of “The Syrup” are infectious and reminiscent of fellow San Francisco label Dirtybird Records. Confidently pushing the sound of west coast deep house into dirtier territory, Ménage à Moi lays down live drums, a delicious interlude with a wicked breakbeat, and cheeky sample, solidifying “The Syrup” as an extremely versatile track that will fit into a DJ’s set with style and class. Versatility being the key word, as “The Syrup” clocks in at 120 BPM while easily keeping pace when pitched up to the 126 BPM range.
The term “BBW” has many connotations in contemporary patois. In this case, the ‘BBW’ in question is Techno, and “she ain’t no bitch.” A unique homage to deeper techno and house, cowbells, and the all- consuming 808, “BBW” intoxicates as ‘she runs her fingers through [your] hair.’ Delayed stabs and a crushing breakdown continue this BBW’s love affair, complete with more than a few vocal hooks that stick in the head long after the tryst ends. Complementing the original mix with a Dub Mix, Ménage à Moi also packs in an upfront remix of sorts with the Hoover Mix. Indeed, the classic Juno ‘hoover’ sound is rarely heard in today’s house music, but Ménage à Moi throws it in tastefully, making BBW the perfect complimentary track to “The Syrup.”
Justin Harris (Freaks) - “Strange but effective!”
Raymundo Rodriguez - “Solid, bumpy vibes.”
Eric Davenport - “This entire EP is really great. West coast acid house at its best. Deep and funky.”
Joey Silvero (Distant People) - “Chunky and beefy mix … nice fills and drops. There’s a good feel to this track.”
Al Bradley (3am Recordings) - “Really strong vibes here. ‘The Syrup’ is awesome, while the Hoover Mix of ‘BBW’ is ace, too.”
Simon Lister (People Get Real) - “This is brilliant … 100% up my street.”
Niksa Dragolin (Eurostar Radio, Croatia) - “Marvelous drums and percussion here … this will work for sure.”
Black Alley (In Control Radio Show, Berlin) - “Electro b-boys on the floor!”
Corbin Dooley (Electric Feel Radio Show) - “Heavy bass, great stuff.”
Sandro Bianchi (Ibiza Sonica) - “Nice release … such a west coast vibe!”
LavaLava (Subcity Radio, Glasgow) - “Awesome. ‘The Syrup’ has a great sleazy club feel. I’m also digging the Hoover Mix… will use for the peak time sets coming up.”