John Summit started the Experts Only music label with the philosophy “music without limits” in mind, and has since created numerous tracks that adhere to this including Where You Are and Eat the Bass. The label’s latest release, Chris Avantgarde & Kevin de Vries – Killa, also reflects this philosophy, in that it’s a huge, genre-melding collaboration that effectively combines the unique sensibilities of both the artists involved.
The first of these artists is Chris Avantgarde, a German producer who currently lives in London. As well as producing music and running his own label VNTGRD, Avantgarde also writes music for pop and chart artists, with this latter influence coming through on Killa via its catchy hooks and easily recognisable vocal sample. The other artist involved in the track is Kevin de Vries, who has been specialising in hybrid Techno since 2015, developing his chops in this genre using both his own music and remixes including his version of Chicane’s Saltwater. His musical voice can be perhaps heard most in Killa’s grittier aspects, particularly in the deep, resounding bass tones and textured arpeggiated electronics that dominate the track.
Also dominating Chris Avantgarde & Kevin de Vries – Killa is a dark, almost ominous feel, something that’s created using the continuous, intense throb of a kick drum and wailing synths that occasionally permeate the powerful rhythm and bass parts to bring a little contrast to the track. Elsewhere there’s a striking vocal sample proclaiming that “Killa on the beat is murder”, and an overwhelming feeling of unbridled tension that doesn’t ease until the last five seconds, at which point a stab of melody brings the five-minute-long track to an eerie but satisfying close.
All in all, Chris Avantgarde & Kevin de Vries – Killa is a worthy addition to the output of John Summit’s Experts Only music label. Not only does it keep the label’s philosophy of “music without limits” at its forefront, but it also showcases the potency of the music that can be created when you combine the talents of two unique but equally capable artists.
