Y3ARS Deluxe Edition: A Deep Dive into Belgium’s Electronic Tapestry
Released in 2013 by Electronical Reeds, Y3ARS Deluxe Edition is a genre-blurring masterpiece that captures the essence of progressive house, techno, tech house, and deep house. Curated and crafted with precision by the minds behind Souldust and Sultan El Turrah, this album feels like an auditory journey through time and space—anchored firmly in Belgium's vibrant electronic music scene. With its sleek artwork designed by Just Call Us Nobody and meticulous mastering handled by Souldust himself, the album stands as both a sonic and visual triumph.
The tracks on Y3ARS Deluxe Edition are carefully sequenced to take listeners on a ride—from pulsating beats to introspective melodies. Two standout tracks immediately come to mind when reflecting on this release: “Catalunya” and “Y3ARS (Continuous Mix).”
“Catalunya,” with its hypnotic rhythm and layered synths, strikes a perfect balance between tension and release. It’s one of those tunes where you can almost picture yourself lost in a dimly lit club, surrounded by strangers who suddenly feel like kindred spirits. The production here shines—it doesn’t try too hard but still manages to leave a lasting impression. This track sticks with me because it evokes a sense of wanderlust, even if I’m just sitting at home listening on headphones.
Then there’s “Y3ARS (Continuous Mix),” which serves as the backbone of the entire album. As the title suggests, it’s more than just a single piece; it’s a seamless blend of sounds that tie everything together. What makes this mix unforgettable is how effortlessly it flows from one section to another, keeping your attention without ever feeling repetitive. If you’re someone who loves DJ mixes that tell a story, this is the track for you. Plus, knowing that Souldust had his hands all over the mixing and mastering adds a layer of authenticity—you can tell he poured his soul into this project.
Other notable mentions include “Bathroom Strangler,” whose quirky name matches its playful yet edgy vibe, and “In My Head,” which leans heavily into deep house territory with lush chords that tug at your emotions. Each song contributes something unique, making the album feel cohesive yet diverse.
One thing worth noting is how well the credits reflect the collaborative nature of electronic music. From A&R duties split between Souldust and Sultan El Turrah to the creative input from Just Call Us Nobody on visuals, every role plays a part in bringing this project to life. It’s refreshing to see such transparency in acknowledging everyone involved.
Reflecting on Y3ARS Deluxe Edition, what strikes me most is how timeless it feels despite being a decade old. Sure, some elements might sound dated compared to today’s trends, but isn’t that part of its charm? In a world obsessed with chasing the next big thing, albums like this remind us to appreciate the artistry behind crafting a body of work meant to last.
And hey, maybe the real takeaway here is that sometimes, the best way to experience music isn’t about dissecting every detail—it’s about letting it wash over you and seeing where it takes you. Who would’ve thought a Belgian label could make me want to book a ticket to Catalunya?
Rating: 8.5/10
