Trespassing

Trespassing (Tripswitch Remix)

The fourth release on Kunai Records finds label bosses Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic showcasing some of the finest remixes of their work which appeared on Mistique Music. The much loved producer trio has amassed an incredible discography with much of their early works appearing on their famed Mistique Music. For the fourth release on Kunai we take a look back at some of the best Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic interpretations from Chloe Harris, Derek Howell & Faskil, David Granha, Lemon8 and Silinder.
First up is the Chloe Harris interpretation of 'Drive Me Crazy' which perfectly showcased the US producers deep, hypnotic sound at the time. Chloe's well textured beats and ever evolving lines totally transformed Michael & Levan and Stiven's much larger original into a mesmerizing house construction that was perfect for today's contemporary dance floors. Chloe's mix sounded well ahead of it's time and it's a production that still sounds fresh today. 
US producer Derek Howell and French producer Faskil have been close friends for years but it was a rare event that the two ever collaborated on a production together. One such moment came when they took the opportunity to overhaul one of Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic's most well known productions 'Invisible Children'. Derek and Faskil both have very recognizable sounds and their 'Warm' rework of 'Invisible Children' showcased a blend of those perfectly. The crunchy beats were incredibly infectious and the hazy atmospheric sheen which dominated the top half took things into a fresh a hypnotic territory which was just coming into fashion at the time. 
Spanish producer David Granha put his own unique touch on 'Over The Coast' in April of 2012. It was a significant moment as it marked David's last progressive house style production of his career. David Granha really came into prominence in 2010 when he won the Sudbeat, Natura Sonaris and Replug remix competitions. This was a huge accomplishment as these labels are run by Hernan Cattaneo, Henry Saiz and Cid Inc. respectively. David's 'Over The Coast' interpretation was a fitting production to close the progressive house chapter of his career. It was filled with fresh vocals snips, soft brooding stabs and remarkably soulful sounding leads which made it one of David's most accomplished progressive house productions to at the time. 
Dutch producer Harry Lemon aka Lemon8 is undoubted one of the more storied producers in the history of progressive house. Well known for his classic productions on Bedrock and Release Records, his tracks have been played by literally every top DJ over the last 15 years. Harry certainly worked his usual magic on 'Twilight' which saw it release in August of 2010. As the DJ friendly kick intro begins the vocal pads and wispy atmospherics slip in and out of the mix to a brief pause and then the bassline drops. At this point the atmosphere is stripped and we're left with those fresh sounds and building percussion. As more and more elements get worked into the mix the groove just gets stronger and stronger. The layers of percussion that Lemon8 builds are really impressive and will be murder on most dancefloors no doubt. The breakdown is immense but the constant building percussion and drum elements keep it quite danceable. When the stabs and kick drop back in the energy on the dancefloor will be electric for sure. Lemon8's remix just oozes quality and was certainly a standout production in his meticulous discography!
Closing the release out we look back on Silinder's debut appearance on Mistique. The Irish producer was called upon to remix Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic's 'Vertigo'.  Silinder has been showcasing his distinctly modern progressive house sound for the last several years on Perspectives, Whose Haus and Hernan Cattaneo's Sudbeat Music. For his 'Vertigo' interpretation Silinder brought the composition much closer to the dance floor by toughening up the beats, providing a more spacious, drummy groove all while keeping the gorgeous atmospheric elements from the original. The subtle vocal pads and deeply emotional chord changes really stood out and it was one of Silinder's best melodic records ever.


Review by Mitch Alexander

KUN04 Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic - Drive Me Crazy(Chloe Harris Remix)

KUN04 Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic - Over The Coast(David Granha Remix)

Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic - The Puppet Master(Original Mix)

Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic - The Puppet Master(Kastis Torrau & Arnas D Remix)

Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic - The Puppet Master(Micah's Hannibal Chew Deep Edit)

KUN06 Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic - Domino Effect(Original Mix)

KUN06 Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic - Domino Effect(Antrim Remix)

KUN06 Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic - Domino Effect(Hugo Ibarra & Uvo Remix)

Never

Never (Noel Sanger Remix)

Never (Circulation Remix)

Never (Original Mix)

Micheal & Levan and Stiven Rivic return once more to homebase for an exciting new release with remix support from Circulation and Noel Sanger. 

The trio set up Kunai back in 2013 as a place to release their own productions with some their close friends. A safe space of collaboration and creativity away from the cut and thrust of the industry, and their latest release ‘Never’ is a prime example. 

In original form, its elegant lines and uplifting vibe is the kind of track that saw them take the progressive house scene by storm landing them signings on Balance, JOOF and Mistique Music. Soaring pads and emotive adlibs abound on ‘Never’ which twinkles with delicate arps and squelchy sonics. 

On remix duties, a revitalised Circulation hit the ground running in 2021 after a short hiatus, quickly breaking new ground with releases on Bedrock, Selador and their own Recurculate. Here they darken the mood with a deep reese-led vibe that figuratively hugs the edge of the dance floor, while celebrated artist Noel Sanger adds his unique deep trance flavour to ‘Never’ taking it into warm up territory. 


text by Simon Huxtable

Kunai Records had an amazing year in 2014. The Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic created imprint continued to be an outlet for the trios hugely in demand original productions, and also featured a healthy complement of A-list remixers. For their first release of 2015 Micheal, Levan and Stiven are presenting their newest single entitled 'Breaking Point' which features remixes from Inkfish and Rick Pier O'Neil. 
Micheal, Levan and Stiven closed 2014 out with a string of impressive productions. A remix for Gai Barone along with original productions for Movement Recordings and their own Kunai and Mistique imprints have all been standouts. The much loved trio get 2015 off to a great start with 'Breaking Point'. Beginning with a punchy groove and smooth underlying rhythms the track already carries a large presence at just two minutes in. A dramatic break grounded with a bubbly foundation ups the atmosphere further before a wave of sonic sweeps and sparkling electronics transports the track into its third act. The record's climax reveals the full melodic theme with layers of pads and soft chordal swells coming together for a blissful conclusion.

The first interpretation of 'Breaking Point' is provided by Inkfish who are making their first appearance on Kunai Records. The Swedish production act have a storied history in electronic music. Their nearly two decade long career features numerous highlights with appearances on Anjunadeep and Bedrock being the most notable. For their 'Breaking Point' interpretation Inkfish have taken all the great sonic elements from the original and reworked them over a deeper and decidedly groovier framework. Additional rhythms and an equally enticing climax make for a great complement to Michael, Levan and Stiven's epically styled original. 
The second and final interpretation of 'Breaking Point' is supplied by Rick Pier O'Neil who is also making his debut on Kunai Records. The French producer has been a favourite of electronic music fans dating back almost 15 years to his productions on RPO Traxx and Garbage Records. Rick has enjoying an amazing resurgence over the last year having released several amazing projects with outings on John OO Fleming's JOOF Records and Micheal, Levan and Stiven Rivic's Mistique Music. For his 'Breaking Point' interpretation Rick Pier O'Neil has put his trademark tough progressive techno twist on the track. Rick's punishing beats, charged rhythms and driving drums lay down an energetic groove while the subtle reinvention of the atmospheric elements provides a goosebump inducing finale. Top notch remix from Rick and a great release from Kunai Records to get 2015 off to a great start.

Review by Mitch Alexander
Cover by Michael Gaida

KUN08 Michael & Levan And Stiven Rivic - Breaking Point(Inkfish Remix)

KUN09 Michael & Levan And Stiven Rivic - Rendez - Vous(Antix Remix)

KUN09 Michael & Levan And Stiven Rivic - Justice(Sahar Z Remix)

KUN09 Michael & Levan And Stiven Rivic - Favela(Dousk Remix)

The 10th release on Kunai Records finds label owners Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic back in the spotlight with a brand new single. It's been a productive year for the much loved trio. After an intensive and highly creative winter Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic have an impressive collection of new music in the pipeline. Sudbeat Music, Replug Records and Manual Music are just some of the labels Michael, Levan and Stiven can now call home. Their fans are certainly hungry for this influx of new material and to whet their appetite a brand new single for Kunai is now ready for the masses. 'Painkiller' comes with remixes from Andre Sobota, Solid Stone and Wes Straub. 

KUN10 Michael & Levan And Stiven Rivic - Painkiller(Solid Stone Remix)

KUN10 Michael & Levan And Stiven Rivic - Painkiller(Andre Sobota Remix)

KUN10 Michael & Levan And Stiven Rivic - Painkiller(Original Mix)

Under Control

Under Control (C-Jay Remix)

Trespassing (Framewerk Remix)

Powerless

Powerless (Moosefly Remix)

Release Date: 17.12.2018

Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic return to their Kunai Records imprint with a brand new single entitled 'Whisper'. Upon releasing the well received 'Perfect Lift' for Amsterdam’s Click Records and a remix for Pena’s Flow Vinyl, the much loved duo returned to Kunai with ‘Powerless’ in October. It marked the duo’s first project for the label in over a year. Now just a month on the trio return to Kunai with a new single alongside remixes from Samuel L Session and Futur-E. 

Since first appearing on the progressive house scene in 2008, Michael, Levan and Stiven have evolved immensely. Although still widely regarded for their signature sound, more than ever the trio explores a variety of stylistic blueprints, often cross pollinating genres with an effortless ease. Such is the case with their latest offering ‘Whisper’ which has a groovy house vibe while still keeping one foot planted in the progressive end of the spectrum. It’s rolling groove is immaculately carved while clever vocal edits and smooth chord stabs work some sensory magic over the top. There’s an interesting contrast in moods, with the low end emanating a powerful warmth, while textural drifts bring a sense of serenity. It’s the effortless flow of the production which is ultimately most appealing, nothing forced or contrived just liquid like storyboarding that’s a joy to listen to. A flawless creative lesson from one of the scenes longest standing and highly regarded trios. 

The first interpretation of ‘Whisper’ is provided by Samuel L Session who makes his label debut here. The Swedish artist has a storied history in electronic music with a career spanning over two decades. His discography is highlighted by releases on Arts, Drumcode, KMS, Musicman, Soma and his own Klap Klap imprint. Now making his much anticipated Kunai Records debut Samuel takes ‘Whisper’ into timeless territory with great results. Sleek yet punchy, it’s spacious framework and bulbous sub tones provide the perfect foundation for wispy melodic motifs and shimmering atmospherics. Evolving elegantly across its six minute running time, the main break advances the narrative with moments of tension before ultimately giving way to a luminous, late night finale. As stunning interpretations from one of electronic music’s most storied artists. 

The release concludes with Futur-E making his label debut and providing the second and final interpretation of ‘Whisper’. The Greek artist owns an impressive discography which includes releases on Asymmetric Recordings, Cinematique, MNL, Tenampa and Traum. Quite diverse, Futur-E is adept at a variety of stylistic blueprints from melodic techno to progressive house. Of late we’ve seen him exploring the latter with releases on LowBit Records and Strange Town Recordings. For his ‘Whisper’ interpretation the Greek artist plays off the groovy nature of the original with a driving low end, astral motifs and timely synth clusters. Rhythmic yet powerful, waves of percussion unite with phasing atmospheres before a dramatic lead theme fades to prominence during the main break, perfectly segueing into a pulsating finale. Definitely one for a peak time dance floor, it rounds out what is another unique and diverse release for Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic’s Kunai Records. Highly Recommended.

KUN16: Michael & Levan And Stiven Rivic - Whisper

Topless

Topless (Dale Middleton Remix)

Stardust

Stardust (Jerome Isma-Ae Remix)

The latest release from Kunai Records finds the label bosses Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic presenting a brand new single. The veteran trio have been enjoying a fruitful year highlighted by two releases for ICONYC and a remix for Sandra Collins on Stripped Recordings. Now following up a successful debut on D-Formation’s Beatfreak Recordings, Michael, Levan and Stiven return to Kunai with ‘Blackout’ alongside remixes from Medway and Lexicon Avenue. 
 
Always looking to diversify their portfolio Michael, Levan and Stiven explore deep, dubby territory on 'Blackout'. Beginning with punchy, organic beats, it’s the warmth and fluidity of the groove which becomes instantly compelling. Perfectly contoured and full of great character, it anchors what is a pulsating and highly evocative slice of deep techno. Vibrant and timeless across its eight minute running time, the main break perhaps holds its greatest sense of nostalgia, with a smooth, emotive storyboard delivering a multitude of heartfelt moments. 
 
The first interpretation of ‘Blackout’ is provided by Medway who makes his label debut. Long time progressive house fans will certainly recognize the name Medway, the US born, UK based artist was a favourite of Sasha and John Digweed for many years. A string of releases on Hooj Choons through the late nineties proved to some of the biggest during a time many refer to as the golden era of progressive house. Medway’s ‘Resurrection’, ‘Fat Bastard’, ‘The Elements’, ‘Release’ and ‘Trauma’ EP’s all sit as progressive house classics. Now making a long overdue return, Medway provides a stunning rendition of ‘Blackout’. Anchored by a warm, wonderfully sculpted groove and fiery percussion, there’s a deep yet electric mood from the outset. As radiant chord stabs steal the air, drifting atmospheres gently descend over the framework, while sweeping effects and arcane artefacts tantalize the senses. Anticipation builds as the main break progresses, phasing textures and astute narration unite, before getting washed away as the pulsating groove returns for a magic moment. Heady stuff from Medway who is clearly still at the top of his game. 
 
The release concludes with another progressive house pioneer Lexicon Avenue providing the second and final interpretation of ‘Blackout’. Perhaps best known for his Depeche Mode ‘Only When I Lose Myself’ interpretation, Chris Scott of Lexicon Avenue has been on the cutting edge of electronic music for over 15 years. He boasts a discography which includes releases on Audio Therapy, Hooj Choons, Ministry of Sound, Mute, Renaissance, and Yoshitoshi. Although sporadic Lexicon Avenue has made a welcome return to the scene in recent years with outings for Perspectives Digital and Jack Trax Records. Now rounding the release out in style the UK artist provides an inspired take on ‘Blackout’. The journey begins with a deep, spacious groove and funk fuelled rhythms. As the narrative progresses, fragmented motifs carry a lovely meditative quality, perfectly transferring energy into the main break.  Building methodically, wonky bass modulation and emotive chord changes provide the perfect anchor for an icy climb to a deadly drop. Definitely one for a clued up dance floor and a perfect way to round out this nostalgic release from Kunai Records. Highly recommended.

KUN18 Michael & Levan And Stiven Rivic - Blackout (Medway Remix)

KUN18 Michael & Levan And Stiven Rivic - Blackout (Original Mix)

Fresh off their well received ‘Blackout’ single, Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic return to their Kunai Records imprint with ‘Filthy Shadows’. Released in October, ‘Blackout’ once again showed the trio’s sonic diversity while also receiving remixes from scene legends Lexicon Avenue and Medway. Now following a remix for Robert Babicz and Babiczstyle, Michael, Levan and Stiven land back on Kunai for a new single alongside remixes from Hernan Cattaneo & Soundexile and Yves Eaux.

Often sitting in the creative space between deep and progressive house, the much loved trio sits closer to the former with ‘Filthy Shadows’. It’s deep, dubby framework is perfectly tailored, adorned with percussive flurries, ghostly effects and subtle shades and tones. Warm bass swells and a modular wave highlight the main break, flowing through emotive chord changes, before it’s dramatic allure pulls you back into a meditative state for a spellbinding finale.

The first interpretation of ‘Filthy Shadows’ is provided by Hernan Cattaneo & Soundexile who are a production trio that sits amongst progressive music’s elite guard. Hernan Cattaneo is one of the world’s most beloved DJs and his Sudbeat label imprint is widely regarded as one of the best in its field. Soundexile are a Buenos Aires based production duo who have been crafting unique and inspiring electronic music since 2006. The pair are also very accomplished DJs having shared the booth with Hernan Cattaneo, John Digweed, James Zabiela, Dave Seaman and Henry Saiz. Now partnering up with Hernan once again, the trio provide a stunning take on ‘Filthy Shadows’. Building hypnotically; punchy beats, exotic percussion and warm bass swells unite for a highly rhythmic, free flowing framework. Smooth chord changes deliver a subtle yet powerful shift in emotive energy, as tranquil arps further saturate your senses as the main break commences. Coming to full fruition, the musical narrative evolves through tasteful modulation, creating a one minute reservoir of melodic clusters, before elegantly peaking and perfectly shifting energy into a smooth final act.

Rounding out the release and providing the second and final interpretation of ‘Filthy Shadows’ is Yves Eaux. Based in Amsterdam, the Dutch artist has been a fixture of the electronic underground for the better part of two decades. Releases on iconic progressive imprints such as Kasey Taylor’s Vapour Recordings to major labels like Blackhole and SPINNIN' highlight his discography. Also a well travelled DJ, the Amsterdam resident has shared the stage with some of the underground's most critically acclaimed DJs such as Sasha, Joris Voorn and Kevin Saunderson. Now making his Kunai Records debut, Yves delivers a rousing take on ‘Filthy Shadows’ to complete the release in style. Undeniably groovy, it’s rhythmic appeal grows subtly, as mountains of bass and layers of percussion unite for an undulating framework. Sweeping effects and astral arps further saturate your pleasure centres, before impassioned overlays add a nostalgic touch during a gorgeous final break. Sitting as a perfect complement to its predecessors it caps off another well rounded release for Kunai Records, who once again bring you some of electronic music’s most sought after talent here.

Filthy Shadows

KUN19 Michael & Levan, Stiven Rivic - Filthy Shadows (Yves Eaux Remix)

KUN19 Michael & Levan, Stiven Rivic - Filthy Shadows (Hernan Cattaneo & Soundexile Remix)

KUN19 Michael & Levan, Stiven Rivic - Filthy Shadows (Original Mix)

Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic created the Mistique Music imprint in 2008. Over the course of the last 5 years the label has grown into one of the most recognized and loved imprints in the progressive house underground. Mistique has become one of the ideal electronic music avenues for both seasoned producers and new up and coming talents to showcase their skills. The label has since branched off into several other areas with Mistique Digital,  Mistique Emotion and Mistique Dream all focusing on other genres including Tech House, Ambient, Electronica and Trance. Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic are now set to embark on a new label project entitled 'Kunai'. The "Kunai' imprint has been created to showcase the newest original material from Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic in conjunction with some very special remixes which will accompany each release. The top talents  and most highly regarded names of electronic music will be showcased on Kunai and thus the label will keep to a much stricter and more spacious release schedule of about 10 per calendar year.  Michael & Levan and Stiven Rivic will look to expand their far reaching sound even further on Kunai and with several A-list remixes already completed Kunai looks set to be one of the best new labels as 2013 moves forward.

Kunai Records

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