Today I truly lucked out by stumbling upon a highly original piece that feels like a new evolution in future garage sound. “one step closer” by Itona has opened up entirely new moods for me. This is the third single from the “memory pool” EP on Morii Chill, and it is absolutely worth your time.
Itona is the alias of James Vine, better known as ENiGMA Dubz. The project’s name (Japanese for “love” and “summer”) was inspired during the 2020 lockdown as a creative outlet for uplifting, ethereal music. Following the momentum of “a distant memory” and “there’s hope,” this new track continues James’s journey into blissful, dream-like electronics.
Sound Architecture
The sound of this track breaks a core stereotype of future garage: it is inspiring and completely devoid of melancholic undertones. Right from the start, the producer introduces a breakbeat rhythm that takes you by the hand and leads you through the track. Almost immediately, the main motifs emerge – a bright, driving e-piano that feels borrowed from house music. This mood is caught by vocal chops that, instead of having the usual heavy lows, sound like a melodic thread focused on mid-frequencies.
As we approach the center, a sub-bass appears to ground the composition, keeping you present in the moment amidst the growing euphoria. At the “equator” of the track, it feels as if the author references early 2000s trance, with muted pianos and blissful pads creating a powerful emotional surge before the final loop.
Why Listen?
If you’ve been searching for future garage that inspires rather than saddens, “one step closer” is the top candidate. It is a successful experiment that blends influences from various genres while retaining essential elements like vocal chops and deep sub-bass.
The work feels fresh yet strangely familiar, like a memory from childhood. It truly brings the listener “one step closer” to a bright, uplifted mood. Itona might be carving a new path for the genre – one that stays introspective but looks toward a hopeful, elevated horizon.
P.S. If you enjoy vocal samples that create a unique atmosphere, we also recommend checking out our review of Yal!X.
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