Phara - Soft Glow, Fierce Light [Fuse Imprint]

Format: 12" in printed sleeve.

Following a potent first release on the Fuse imprint with The Wall, resident Phara returns to his home with a mirage of introspective tracks. Delving deeper into his exploration of emotive club music, Soft Glow, Fierce Light carries a more than fitting name it seems. Glistening melodies, oscillating rhythms and a comforting atmosphere: Phara proves that his ever-evolving musical persona and relationship with the Brussels-based club are made to last.

Kicking off with Unfold, the Belgian producer treats us to a warm introduction. In tune with his In Glass side-project, he strikes a balance between that alias's slower tempo dub techno and the club-fueled energy he's known for as Phara. The beat remains steady at first, but the filters open all the way midway through the track to ensure maximum euphoria on or off the dance floor. Flow continues in this vein, maintaining a consistent and tense level with intricate melodic design. A steady groove and expanding synth lines make Flow a beauty that unfolds to the ears. Warm chords carry a nostalgia that runs throughout the EP and proves, once again, that this seasoned producer often prioritizes emotion over drive.

Flipping the wax over, Wave to Wave signals all things dub, and even lets a subtle appreciation for house shine through, both in the harmony of its keys and the sound design of its square bass, touching upon its common borders with techno. Between snare rolls and rides, Phara sets the tone with a peaceful piece, ideal for connoisseurs of the genre with their eyes closed. To close, Solitude brings a polished vintage effect that expands on the idea introduced in Wave to Wave, this time with an increased intensity worthy of a set closer. Percussive and punchy hits make this a particularly extroverted track, perfect for any bag—be it Room 01 or Motion Room. Thunderous claps over an electric melody: these kinds of tracks are not new to Phara. By pouring his soul into each production, Phara reaffirms his role as a key player in the development of the Fuse sound and in the evolution of his own sonic language.