RedazioneMusic Factory Records proudly presents Tropical Nites: Remixes and Lost Tracks, an EP from Roman Angelos that fans of his original Tropical Nites album (June 2024) will appreciate as both a reimagining and expansion of his work. With contributions from remixers Ursula 1000, Scott Solter, and Blake Madden, and new rarities featuring Frank LoCrasto and Brazilian singer Mari Rosa, this collection captures the lush, electronic soundscape and tropical energy of the original album while venturing into new stylistic terrain. As we delve into the details of this EP, it becomes clear that Tropical Nites: Remixes and Lost Tracks is more than a remix album—it’s an immersive sonic experience.
The EP opens with Ursula 1000’s remix, a laid-back, groove-infused rendition that conjures images of sun-soaked beaches and poolside escapades. The track begins with calming bird calls and ambient tropical sounds, a nod to the naturalistic approach of exotica that Roman Angelos embraces. The entrance of bossa-inspired rhythms, steel drums, and soft female vocal samples elevates the track to a sensory, lounge-ready experience. Ursula 1000’s signature style, which melds bossa nova and electronic lounge, captures the essence of Roman Angelos’ tropical world while infusing it with a relaxed yet vibrant energy.
As we move through the EP, Scott Solter’s remix takes on a slightly different dimension, layering punchier beats and accentuating the bassline for an electrifying interpretation. Solter, known for his work with artists like St. Vincent and Spoon, brings a nuanced texture to this track, emphasizing the rhythm section and synthesizers in a way that lends it a more cinematic quality. Meanwhile, Blake Madden’s remix introduces a pulsing, dance-oriented vibe that pushes the tropical house energy into high gear, a fitting testament to Madden’s roots in electronic music production. His approach brings the groove to the forefront, with basslines that are deep and driving and synths that cut through with shimmering clarity, adding to the EP’s danceability.
The standout original rarities on the EP are a delight for listeners who enjoy exploring the full range of Angelos’ compositions. Frank LoCrasto’s piano and synthesizer work blend seamlessly with Angelos’ tropical aesthetic, bringing jazz influences and a dreamy, laid-back mood. Mari Rosa’s vocal on the Brazilian-inspired track, in particular, brings a sultry warmth, giving the EP an authentic Latin flair that complements the rhythmic, sun-drenched beats in a deeply satisfying way.
The instrumentation across Tropical Nites: Remixes and Lost Tracks speaks to the impressive roster behind this project. Rich Bennett, under the guise of Roman Angelos, leads a talented group including Brittany Anjou on vibraphone, Ben Zwerin on bass, Spencer Cohen on drums, and Rose Rutledge on flute. These musicians bring a sense of real-world richness that keeps the electronic and tropical sounds grounded, offering listeners an expansive sonic palette. The combination of organic elements—trumpet, vibraphone, percussion—with electronic synths and basslines infuses the album with layers of warmth, depth, and character.
In addition to the music, the EP’s limited-edition vinyl, with cover art by UK artist MJ Langthorne, is a visual treat that underscores the album’s exotic vibe. These five exclusive lathe records, available only at select live performances, add a tangible allure for dedicated fans and vinyl enthusiasts alike.
Roman Angelos (aka Rich Bennett) skillfully uses this project to explore and reimagine the moods and textures of tropical house and EDM. His fascination with 60s and 70s library recordings, muzak, and exotica resonates throughout the EP, creating a listening experience that is both nostalgic and modern. This EP is an engaging journey for anyone with a taste for tropical electronic music, and its impeccable production quality and innovative remixes make it a standout addition to Roman Angelos’ body of work.
