Bitmonx vs Fabio – Erdbeer-Kiwi Remixes EP

In 2002 Iboga was emerging as one of the most serious labels in the world. Their early forays into groovy minimal psytrance had won them many fans, but their following remained fairly underground. For one reason or another, the label decided to take a chance and release a single containing remixes of one of their early hits: Erdbeer-Kiwi. The original version by Bitmonx and Fabio had been released on the Tryptamin compilation back in 2000 to some acclaim. It was well-loved by some listeners; I even knew a man who had an excerpt of the waveform tattooed in a loop around his leg! As it was released in the spring, Iboga had achieved perfect timing. As was hoped, this became a major summer anthem in 2002.

XV Kilist’s “Erdnuss Butter” remix takes up a full side of this vinyl single. This track features intricate percussion, evolving bass lines, and a smart and snappy groove. It gets very sedate and minimal in the body of the track, almost losing me, but then it begins to rebuild in a sophisticated fashion. Not bad, but it is better used as a DJ tool than anything else. It can be found on CD on Set 2.

Reefer Decree provides an exceptional remix to begin the other side. Intelligent organic rhythms with a natural flow fill the first six minutes. The distinct atmospheric flourish from the original is sent through a number of interesting contortions in this time, nicely building expectations as time passes. In the last two minutes Reefer Decree finally deliver on their promise, unleashing a complex alien melody that shimmers and shines in the morning light. With the perfect groove and memorable melody Reefer Decree scored a huge success for Iboga Records!

The POTS remix is dry and minimal with an ever-present sense of gloom. Even when the shimmering hook finally arrives, the producers counter it with an obsidian background melody. Although this version is a bit sparse and repetitive for my taste, some listeners are sure to like it. I hear it is not much different from the original.

Iboga succeeded with their first remix single. Each artist provides their own flavour while remaining within the realm of minimal progressive psytrance. For me, Reefer Decree steals the show, but the other artists provide good efforts in their own style. Iboga collectors and fans of the deeper side of psytrance from the post-millennial era would do well to track down this significant single.