Our first release of 2017 sees the welcome return of Soulvent faithful and long time friend, Daniel Van Mourik – better known as Arch Origin. Dan caught our attention over the past few years with tracks like City By Night and Mesmerize, and it’s clear to see the producers’ progression; as he landed his first release on the legendary d&b imprint Hospital Records last year. His Value Shift EP is a 6-track journey through his ever-emerging sound, as well as encapsulating some important social observations for the millennial generation. This varied offering should surely satiate any budding drum and bass fan, who’s been waiting for an Arch Origin release!

First up, ‘Dusty’ opens with a smooth, sultry half time drum groove. Warm subtle chords and swells are paired with a classic-sounding MC over the top. Wasting no time, it drops straight into rumbling sub bass and a solid drum break, with various counterpoint synth lines draping the track. Overall, there is something truly nostalgic to this track – despite all being freshly combined elements. ‘Escapism ft. Anna-Eva’ saw it’s first release on last years Soul Sessions Vol. 2, however Anna-Eva’s vocals breathe fresh life into this crisp liquid roller. Her longing, soulful phrases couple effortlessly with the warm synth and strings. Meanwhile ‘Urban Periphery’ opens with sparse, clicking percussion, and an ethereal vocal sample – with a drum fill giving way to this deep, techy roller. At the half-way mark ‘Recluse ft. Mr. Porter’ kicks off with melancholic, airy tones – perfectly matched by Mr. Porter’s wistful, hauntingly processed vocals. Varied percussion…‘Empyrean’ serves as a soothing interlude between tracks, with its bubbling synths, and gritty half-tempo edge – as well as a welcome aural change in the EP format of the genre. Title track ’Value Shift’ sees a dreamy pad open to driving percussion, whilst a sampled speech talks to us about values, an interesting theme in this day and age!

Having played our stage at the first ever Hospitality In The Park festival last year, as well as closing off 2016 with a set at the Liquicity Winterfestival – 2017 sure looks to be a promising year for the young Dutch talent. Daniel’s production is often laden with nostalgia, wether intentional or not, it seems to always leave you with the feeling that you’ve heard it somewhere before. With that said, we’re sure the EP will resonate in the hearts and clubs of the scene for months to come.