Song review: Mother Earth (Youth Remix) - Essential Logic
Song Review: "Mother Earth" (Youth Remix) by Essential Logic
Essential Logic’s latest offering from their remix album ReKalibrated, sees the post-punk outfit once again pushing musical boundaries with a standout track, "Mother Earth," remixed by Killing Joke’s bassist and producer, Youth. This release, which hits platforms on January 31st, is a testament to Essential Logic’s enduring legacy, blending genres and styles in a way that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.
Youth’s remix takes "Mother Earth" into dub territory, infusing the track with a hypnotic reggae rhythm that underscores the roots of the genre while staying true to the rebellious spirit of Essential Logic. The remix showcases Youth's seasoned production skills, offering a rich, textured sound that DJs will find to be a versatile and solid foundation for a variety of setlists. The basslines are deep and resonant, the echoing percussion is meticulously layered, and the overall production is polished, reflecting Youth's extensive experience with artists like The Verve and Pink Floyd.
While the production quality is undeniably high, the melodic composition of the track leans towards the familiar. The formulaic structure and "vanilla" melodic lines make it a track that, doesn’t necessarily break new ground. It’s a piece that delivers exactly what’s expected of a well-produced dub remix—steady, engaging, and atmospheric—but without much in the way of unexpected twists or turns.
Despite this, the heartfelt sentiment behind "Mother Earth" shines through, resonating with themes of connection and reverence for the planet. This emotional underpinning adds depth, ensuring the track is more than just a club-ready instrumental. It’s a piece that, although not groundbreaking in its melody, captures the essence of dub's roots—rhythmic, meditative, and soulful.
The ReKalibrated album as a whole is a fascinating project, with Lora Logic and an impressive roster of collaborators reimagining tracks from the Land of Kali album. The collection of remixes spans various genres and moods, highlighting Essential Logic’s influence and versatility. Notably, Grammy-winning remixer Dave Audé and rave-pop icon Adamski bring their unique touches to the project, further enriching the eclectic mix of sounds.
The impact of Essential Logic’s pioneering spirit is evident not just in this remix but in their continued relevance in the music scene. From their original post-punk days to recent live performances and collaborations, the band's journey is a celebration of artistic freedom and innovation.
In conclusion, Youth’s remix of "Mother Earth" is a fitting addition to the ReKalibrated album. While it may not revolutionize the dub genre, it stands as a solid, well-crafted track that pays homage to the enduring spirit of Essential Logic. For fans of dub, reggae, and post-punk, it’s a worthwhile listen—familiar, yes, but also deeply rooted in the rich history of a band that continues to inspire.
