It has been nearly five years since we have had the privilege of releasing new music by veteran Australian musician Approaching Black. We are overjoyed to present his new 3-track EP, "Salt & Sea," featuring three sensual, seaside progressive house gems.
The title cut establishes a beach-at-dusk ambience from its earliest moments. A soothing progressive groove is punctuated by a variety of lush melodies, including a gentle, arpeggiated lead and a series of vocal flourishes. In the main break, the tranquil atmosphere centers on relaxing pads and a gorgeous piano theme. When the rhythm returns, the listener is swept away by the mellifluous soundscape.
The subsequent track, "Blue Bird," maintains the after-hours, beach-flavored atmosphere. A gorgeous chord sequence and vocal motif carries the midrange, while a smooth, deep-progressive groove sits comfortably below. Approaching Black's evocative pads and piano add even greater depth to the already emotive soundscape.
Rounding out the release, "Face The Sun" is more of an uptempo affair, featuring an uplifting groove and jazzy lead theme. Once again, the listener is met with soulful vocal hooks, including the well-suited phrase, "You make me feel like the summer." As the song progresses, Approaching Black showcases his exceptional compositional ability via a stunning array of atmospheric and melodic accents.
Shingo Nakamura is a progressive house god. He knows the perfect balance of chill and upbeat. I can read a book, go for a drive, or get up and dance to his versatile sounds. His mixing is smooth and his tracks always have the best grooves. Plucks are definitely a strong suit for this guy. Maddie Farnsworth
This song gets me right in the feels. I can never think of a word to describe this feeling that certain songs and chord progressions give me, but this definitely gives me that feeling. I Always just want to put on a pair of nice headphone and bop my head to the lovely sounds of Shingo. Maddie Farnsworth
Memories and Comeback Kid were my first introduction to this band. From then on - I've always gone to the Midnight for easy listening. Waiting for a bus - Standing in line - Going grocery shopping and pretty much everywhere and anywhere. You can listen to this track over and over again and I feel like it doesn't get old. solstra