rafa santos / franck roger: where is the clubbing?
Francisco Espregueira
Spanish label Mate Records is back with a bang, welcoming two of Europe’s deep house heavyweights Rafa Santos and Franck Roger for the new deep house EP, Where Is The Clubbing? This release serves as a masterclass in the genre, showcasing the refined skills of these seasoned producers. Santos leads with the original, starting with the title track, "Where Is The Clubbing?". This cut masterfully combines depth and drive, featuring rich, swirling pads over supple kicks and soulful clipped vocal hooks. Franck Roger takes the remix reins, adding his signature swing and a stripped-back, late-night vibe, sprinkled with a touch of cosmic dust.
The B-side kicks off with "Smooth Jazz," a track that lives up to its name with cuddly beats, star-gazing piano tinkles, and sombre sax notes that exude real class. The EP closes with "Don't Fool Me," which boasts Chez Damier-style weight in its kicks and steaminess in the female vocals, making it a perfect end to a sophisticated and engaging four-tracker. Where Is The Clubbing? by Rafa Santos and Franck Roger on Mate Records is a must-listen for deep house aficionados. Available on vinyl.