Album Review: Runner Up by Amygdala – A Tech House Gem That Still Kicks
Alright, let’s talk about Runner Up by Amygdala, a 2008 Canadian banger released on Wide Angle Recordings. This isn’t just another tech house album—it’s the kind of record that sneaks up on you like an overcaffeinated DJ at 3 AM. It’s got two tracks, but don’t let the brevity fool ya; these tunes pack more punch than a double espresso shot.
First up is the “Runner Up (Original Mix).” If this track were a person, it’d be that effortlessly cool friend who shows up late to the party but still steals all the attention. The groove hits hard right from the start, with pulsing basslines and crisp percussion that make your feet move before your brain catches up. There’s something hypnotic about how the layers build—subtle tweaks here, a dash of synth there—it’s minimal yet full of character. I remember spinning this one during a road trip once, and my car turned into a makeshift club. My dog even started headbopping in the backseat, which is saying something because he’s usually more into country.
Then there’s “Runner Up (Slim’s Lay Down Remix),” which flips the vibe entirely. Where the original mix feels sharp and precise, Slim takes things deeper and moodier. It’s like swapping out neon lights for dim candlelit corners. The remix stretches out the rhythm, adding dreamy textures that pull you into its orbit. Honestly, this version sticks with me because it’s perfect for those moments when you’re not sure if you’re dancing or just swaying awkwardly—it doesn’t matter either way. You’re hooked.
What makes Runner Up stand out isn’t just its quality—it’s the fact that it came out in 2008 and still slaps today. Back then, tech house was having a moment, but Amygdala managed to carve out her own niche without trying too hard. And hey, props to Canada for delivering something other than maple syrup and polite apologies.
Reflecting on this little gem, I can’t help but think about how music evolves while staying oddly the same. Tech house might have morphed over the years, but tracks like these remind us why we fell in love with electronic beats in the first place. Oh, and fun fact: listening to this album makes me want to rearrange my furniture. Maybe that’s just me though.
So yeah, give Runner Up a spin. Whether you’re throwing shapes on the dancefloor or just vibing solo, it’s a solid pick. Just don’t blame me if your dog starts moonlighting as a DJ afterward.
