Don Carlos - I'm Steel Here EP | Freerange Records (FR284)

Don Carlos, a legendary figure in the world of deep house music, returns with the "I'm Steel Here EP" on Freerange Records. His reputation precedes him, having crafted some of the most influential and genre-defining deep house tracks of all time. In 1991, he introduced his debut release "Alone" via Calypso Records, a track that quickly attained classic status. "Alone" graced dancefloors worldwide with its euphoric piano stabs, sun-drenched strings, and laidback groove. It set the stage for what would later become known as 'Italian dream-house.'

A year later, Don Carlos followed up with another masterpiece, a mini LP titled "Mediterraneo." This release drew inspiration from the Chicago master Larry Heard but added a European 'Balearic' perspective, paving the way for a wave of warm, emotive late-night house tracks from Italy. Despite a relatively sporadic release schedule since his seminal early '90s output, Freerange Records proudly presents brand new material with the "I'm Steel Here EP."

Across the three original tracks on this EP, Don Carlos revisits the vibes of those early years while bringing them into the modern era for today's DJs and dancefloors. The title track, "I'm Steel Here," blends a driving Italo synth bassline with Don Carlos's trademark strings and piano, crafting an uplifting club track that is sure to elevate spirits. Following this is "Azimuth," featuring a piano hook reminiscent of the mighty Trackheadz, with a gated vocal sample that adds a touch of '90s nostalgia to this regal house piece. Closing out this gem of an EP is "In The Sky," which loops up a classic feel-good disco riff, delivering a mid-tempo house jam that grooves along effortlessly, setting the perfect mood for any warm-up set worth its salt.