December 13, 2010
Flamingo Recordings
Youri Donatz is back with another slick release for your listening pleasure. Out on Blackbird, Rina is an opportunity for you to experience a slightly different side of this skilled producer. Donatz's trademarks are still very much in evidence. A high level of thoughtfulness in the arrangement, a track which is rhythmically very interesting and a complex blend of different samples – all of these facets are typical of this artist's style. He has made his name as someone who can blend complex beats and samples with ease and works at an incredibly sophisticated level, something his 2009 signing to Flamingo Recordings sister label Blackbird is strong evidence for. But with Rina, you get the sense that maybe this is Donatz kicking back and having a little fun. It's a mid-tempo, vibey track that has a real playful element shining through amidst all that production mastery. It's the musical equivalent of the artist cracking you a smile and a cheeky grin, an entertaining tune that will do wonders for your mood. Just don't mistake it for being simplistic as that's one thing it certainly isn't. Creativity with genre is one of the true marks of someone to watch. Youri Donatz is showing here that his plan extends beyond merely conquering a single genre. As someone who is known for taking his tech house very seriously it is thrilling to see that he is both willing and able to step a little bit outside the box and manage to create a tune which is still genuinely enjoyable. Rina is a winner, and one which should see Youri Donatz's work introduced to an even wider audience and bring him even more fans.