ictv, nephews & dimsum: love ensemble ii
Francisco Espregueira
Returning after half a decade, the collaborative force known as Love Ensemble Quatuor—comprised of ICTV, Nephews, and DimSum, each bringing their distinct solo flair—has resurfaced with Love Ensemble II, a release that not only builds upon their initial EP but also charts a fresh sonic trajectory. This German-Swiss-Lebanese connection, known for their seamless fusion of styles, delivers a record that’s as diverse as its creators. Released via APHR Records, Love Ensemble II offers a dynamic listening experience, from smooth, melodic grooves to high-energy club anthems.
The record unfolds with a clear duality: Side A eases the listener in with the smooth, melodic tapestry of “Midnight Mirage,” a track defined by its tight percussion, soft chords, and a rolling bassline—a perfect warm-up for any set. This is followed by the deeper beats and intricate rhythms of “Love Ensemble Theme,” a testament to the undeniable chemistry between the four producers. Flipping to Side B, the energy ignites with “Elevated Workout,” a punchy, club-ready track infused with whistles, sound effects, and a clear nod to the raw energy of ‘90s rave culture—a proven crowd-mover. Adding further depth, the release is rounded out by two compelling remixes: Irish hitmaker Trent Voyage delivers a hard-hitting rendition of “Elevated Workout,” while Venezuelan-Swiss producer Giorgio Maulini injects a unique breakbeat twist into “Love Ensemble Theme,” completing this vibrant and multifaceted release. Available on vinyl.