W&W x Sub Zero Project – Paradise

85%Overall Score

• Three separate drops
• W&W melody on an SZP structure
• Not the smoothest experience, but lots of fun

Alright, I was waiting for this team-up to occur for a long time, as Sub Zero Project is among my favorite producers in the Hardstyle scene and they have become a regular at W&W’s Rave Culture for some time now. The Dutch duo, redundant to say, has impressed me since day one and lately nailed some interesting partnerships, one after the other. “Paradise” is another step for them into the Hardstyle realm with W&W, companions who bring quality to this synergy.

The structure initially followed the Happy Hardcore/Hands Up releases familiar to the renowned label owners, with a higher-pitched vocal and the familiar Big Room lead. Kind of predictable, but then Sub Zero Project made certain that the main blueprint is designed by them. In fact, there are three drops:

One anti-climax with two alternating kicks from SZP (and W&W’s dark lead)
A classic Euphoric Hardstyle type
An experimental section with Big Room plus hefty hardstyle kick

While I am always left astonished at the capability of the Hardstyle duo to present several distinct kickdrums in each release, the sound design topped the ante in “Paradise”! All the kicks were exceptional, and I admired how this construction welcomes W&W’s discernible components with a curious blend. Sometimes it works nigh perfectly, sometimes, like in the second one, it seemed a bit forced. As if all four people involved in the production needed to make sure that every part had their influence.

The result is a savory endeavor that will amaze people observant enough about all the technical details, but that may confuse the general listener who will experience lots of rhythm variations encased in the final product.

Nevertheless, it makes me happy to see all these people working together with passion and desire to experiment!