Kettenkarussell
 Insecurity Guard

 ★★★½

Haven't heard of this duo until last year with the release of this album. It got some pretty good reviews and I thought I'd give it a try as it also checked off some of the music I've been looking for. 

This was more pleasant than I really expected; while it won't really move the dance floor like Moodymann, it's pretty obvious that this album's sound and drum patterns were inspired by the likes of Moodymann and other deep house artists. This is more like house music for the home, introspective mind dancing. It is smoky and bit crackly but it fits like a glove. 

I think the second half is more interesting and provides a refreshing change of pace compared to most modern deep house releases. Songs like "Brueder" combine hip hop drum beats with synths and keyboards not too far off from Boards of Canada. In the delicate and peaceful atmospheres of all these songs it feels as if there's something darker brewing underneath. Unfortunately this doesn't really actualize as I would like it to. 

Although this is a great release, I do think a lot of the praise for it is a bit excessive. Their style isn't anything new, and with the inundated releases from the house genre nowadays it's hard to stand out. While they are putting a bit of a spin on some sounds and textures, it doesn't do much to help push that genre forward. 

Favorite Song: Just for a Second

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