The legendary club by the Spree, Watergate, commemorates 20 years with a massive 20-track compilation of brand-new and never-before-heard songs that are only available on the compilation. From Sasha to Anja Schneider, Henrik Schwarz, and Adana Twins, right through to the ascendent names such as JAMIIE, Kristin Velvet, JOPLYN and Biesmans, the compilation is an exhilarating snapshot of some of the artists who have shaped Watergate’s sound; both via the label and through laying down unforgettable sets at the club over a two-decade period.
The compilation’s emphasis on highlights plots a path through all the deep, dark, euphoric, tech, and even pop-heavy, areas of house music. With the upbeat “You Need Attitude,” Henrik Schwarz steers a traditional path, while JOPLYN contributes soaring melodies and arresting vocals on “Lima.” Biesmans is in characteristic sleek form with the sparkling nostalgic-soaked business of ‘Basic Bro’, before emerging stars Mia Mendi contributes a driving electro jam ‘Astromech’.
Anja Schneider, a household name, is a crucial addition. Before passing the reins to Extrawelt, who comes on strong with a delectable micro house serenade titled “Rover,” the Berlin icon brings her A-Game with the big piano chords and gospel vocals of “Can’t You See Me No More.” Sasha weaves a trademark masterful beast with ‘Wolf Cider, a dark and twisted weapon that’s packed with plenty of groove and low-end attitude.
Kristin Velvet‘s “Wanted Competition,” which debuted during her excellent Boiler Room session in 2019, is an electrifying gem that solidifies her position as one of the most promising breakout producers of the previous two years.
The Adana Twins are consistently on point, and they don’t let us down with “Nacht,” a bizarre, distorted house tool that should be in every DJ’s toolbox. Matthias Meyer and Ryan Davis have a stellar history with Watergate Records and collaborate on the outstanding track “Genki,” a shimmering, dramatic song that develops into a harder, psy-heavy finish. New Watergate Agency signing DJEFF crafts an uplifting string-laden ace with ‘Cloud 7, showing off his impressive musicianship along the way, while Hyenah make an essential contribution with the funky key-driven houser ‘Going in Circles’.
Club regular JAMIIE contributes the wicked “Echoes,” which is paced and hypnotic in equal measure and is brought to life by colorful arpeggios and a latticework of key patterns. The project rounds out on a stunning note with ‘Tone Trails’, a lilting slice of electronica by Watergate stalwart Marco Resmann & Lee Jones, which is inflected with organic guitar and dreamy melodies.
The compilation’s standout tracks will be included on the release, which will be presented as a triple gatefold vinyl using a unique ink-spot color effect. All of the tracks will also be available digitally.
