Dan Duncan and Igor Tchkotoua’s second single on Cocoon starts off sounding a bit like classic Plastikman, all thumping beats and phased bass rumbles, before taking off with some trancey synths and treated vocals that walk dangerously close to the cheese line before ending much as it started. As such, “On to the Beat” would have been awesome in 1993, in between tracks by Underworld and Leftfield. The b-side is where it’s at, however, as “4 Leaf Clover” ups the tempo and pounds away in 4/4 with a shuffling hi-hat pattern, rubbery bass bop, and bleeping riff. It’s also a bit retro, but far more effective at it. Is progressive house due for a comeback? If so, Pig & Dan might be leading the way.

Cocoon / COR 12 023
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[Todd Hutlock]