JRNY & Hytech – Activate Da Rhythm (Jody Vukas Remix) comes hot on the heels of the original version of Activate Da Rhythm, which was released in December last year. The remix is released on the Distant Drum Recordings label, and is just one track of a bigger remix package that sees other producers reimagine Activate Da Rhythm in what the label terms “exciting new ways”.
The artists who were behind the original version of the track are JRNY and Hytech, the former being a German Trance producer known for releases such as last year’s THE EP, and the latter being a House producer based in Rio de Janeiro. The artist who is reworking their track, meanwhile, is Jody Vukas, a USA-based House producer and the frontman of Distant Drum Recordings.
Perhaps the first thing to note about JRNY & Hytech – Activate Da Rhythm (Jody Vukas Remix) is the fact that it doesn’t actually sound like your typical remix. You don’t notice an extreme tempo change from the original, and on first listen the track doesn’t appear to start off any differently. Instead, as is often Vukas’ style, what this remix does is rework the track so it retains a similar vibe to the original but moves in different directions. Vukas really brings out on the beat of the track, for instance, which unites the muted thud of a kick drum with a powerful, clap-like snare. He also gives the track a more House-oriented feel overall, focusing on warm, elegant melodies in the breakdowns where the original rarely allows the pace to lessen, clearly aiming to keep the blood pumping and listeners moving.
Both versions of this track are energetic and enjoyable, but it’s certainly a pleasure to hear Vukas’ remix talents on top form with this fresh remix. After this little taster, it will be interesting to hear the take other producers bring to Activate Da Rhythm.
