TuneLab
OWSLA in The Lab LA with Etnik, Vindata, David Heartbreak & Phonat
A multi-DJ back-to-back in The Lab LA always risks becoming a messy, ego-driven clash, but this OWSLA showcase with Etnik, Vindata, David Heartbreak & Phonat somehow coalesced into a surprisingly coherent tech house and progressive house journey. The vibe was that of a late-night laboratory experiment, all blinking CDJs and focused head-nods, a reminder that the best collabs are about listening, not shouting. Technically, it's a wide-ranging ride, averaging 133 BPM but spanning from 94 to 166, anchored by the prevalent, driving key of 12A. The energy balance—low (0.49), mid (0.42), high (0.09)—suggests a focus on groove and texture over sheer aggression, with the DJs building layers of percussion and synth rather than chasing drops. The transitions between artists were smooth, often using long, dubby passages as handover points.
The crate digging was eclectic and smart. 'Phonat - Ride the Prejudice' is a timeless, melodic tech weapon with an unforgettable bass hook. 'Jaw Jam - The Truth (Original Mix)' is a 10-minute deep house odyssey of patience and release. 'Alex Dolby & Santos - Raw Road (Carlo Lio Remix)' brings raw, loop-driven techno energy. 'Hot Natured - Reverse Skydiving (Shadow Child Remix)' is a masterclass in vocal house euphoria, while 'Mood II Swing - Closer (The Deepshakerz Extended Rework)' is a sublime slice of classic, soulful house depth.
'Sellens - Back Down (Off Key Remix)' adds a quirky, off-kilter groove. The journey began in the ether with an unknown opener, built to a peak with the anthemic pull of 'Reverse Skydiving', and closed with the reliable jack of 'Public Energy - Three O' Three'. A full tracklist that proves a good back-to-back is more than the sum of its parts.