TuneLab
REX THE DOG
A Kompakt takeover in The Lab LDN promises a certain pedigree of melodic, driving electronics, and REX THE DOG’s live set, alongside Demian, delivers exactly that—a tech-house and melodic techno sermon we’re all eager to dissect. The vibe is one of focused euphoria, a room full of people who know their labels and appreciate a well-placed piano stab. Operating at a steady 123 BPM average, this is a set built for the long haul, with a harmonic journey that pivots between the introspective 3B and the radiant 12A. The energy is rooted in a deep, pulsing low end at 0.67, allowing the mid-range melodies at 0.31 to shine brightly without ever becoming cloying. The mixing from this live PA is seamless, with tracks blending into a continuous stream of analog warmth and digital precision, showcasing REX THE DOG’s knack for synth-driven hooks.
The high-end is almost negligible at 0.02, a deliberate choice that gives the bass and chords room to breathe and resonate physically in the space. It’s a sophisticated, grown-up take on dancefloor dynamics that never insults your intelligence. The crate digging here is impeccable. Shakedown’s classic 'At Night' gets a deserved airing, its diva vocals cutting through with timeless flair. Floorplan’s 'Ritual' brings a dose of raw, gospel-tinged house energy that lifts the spirit.
Matt Sassari’s 'Give It to Me' is a jacking, percussive opener that sets the pace. The marathon 13-minute 'We Are The City' by Posthuman is a deep, progressive epic that shows the set’s willingness to wander. Moon Boots’ 'Juanita' in its Mark Broom remix is a perfect slice of vocal-led, emotive house. From the infectious loop of 'Give It to Me' starting the party, the journey builds to the sprawling narrative of Posthuman’s 'We Are The City'. It all concludes on the beautiful, starry-eyed chords of Cammel’s 'Beautiful Stars', a closing track that leaves us in a state of warm, satisfied reflection.