Album Review: "I Can Wait" by DB 74 – A Eurodance Time Capsule
Alright, let’s talk about I Can Wait by DB 74. Released in 2001, this German electronic gem is a perfect snapshot of early 2000s Europop vibes. If you’re into Eurodance, Italodance, or even Italo House, this one's for you. Produced entirely by Nicoromano (yeah, he did everything—writing, arranging, mixing, mastering—you name it), the album has that polished yet raw energy that makes you wanna hit repeat. Plus, it came out on TWO and ZYX Music, labels known for keeping the dance floor alive.
Now, I gotta say, this isn’t some deep lyrical masterpiece—it’s all about the beats. And honestly? That’s totally fine. The album includes four versions of the titular track “I Can Wait,” but two really stood out to me: the Original 12" and the Club Mix.
The Original 12" version? Oh man, it’s got that classic Eurodance vibe with a thumping bassline and synth stabs that feel like they’re straight outta an '80s retro arcade—but updated for the new millennium. There’s something addictive about how the melody builds up before dropping into this euphoric groove. You can almost picture yourself in some neon-lit club in Berlin back in the day, hands in the air, not a care in the world.
Then there’s the Club Mix. This one takes things up a notch. It stretches out the instrumental sections, letting the rhythm breathe more. Honestly, it feels like the kind of track DJs would use to keep the party going without losing momentum. It’s smoother than the original but still packs enough punch to get your feet moving. Every time I hear it, I’m reminded why Euro House was such a big deal back then—it just hits different.
What’s wild is how much personality shines through despite Nicoromano wearing so many hats. Like, dude literally handled every single aspect of production. That level of control gives the album a cohesive sound, but it also makes me wonder if anyone else ever chimed in with ideas. Did he just lock himself in a studio until it was done? Props to him either way.
Looking back at I Can Wait, it’s kinda funny how these genres were everywhere in the early 2000s and then sorta faded away. But now? They’ve made a comeback in playlists and underground scenes. Listening to this album feels like rediscovering an old friend you forgot you loved. It’s cheesy, sure, but in the best possible way.
So yeah, give I Can Wait a spin if you’re feeling nostalgic or need something upbeat to brighten your day. Just don’t blame me if you find yourself dancing around your living room at 2 AM.
