On May 17, 2019, DJ Tennis unveiled his “Gordon Starck” EP, marking his highly anticipated first release on the revered Running Back label. This four-track collection immediately established itself as a potent, dancefloor-focused affair, expertly fusing the driving rhythms of house and techno with the distinctive character of acid and Italo disco.
The EP is built around two central compositions, “Gordon” and “Starck.” Each track is presented in both its full, energetic version and a more immersive, film-like arrangement. This thoughtful inclusion offers listeners and DJs alike a flexible range of experiences, from an upbeat, shuffling groove perfect for peak hours to a more delicate, scaled-down atmosphere for deeper listening.
The quality of the release was quickly championed by Running Back founder Gerd Janson. Janson singled out “Gordon” as a track that brilliantly encapsulated the dynamic experience of a DJ Tennis performance, navigating musical highs and lows with ease. He also praised “Starck,” describing its gentler, more background-oriented iteration as equally profound. The tracks had already proven their live appeal, premiering to an enthusiastic reception at the Rakastella party in Miami.
The title itself, “Gordon Starck,” adds a layer of cultural weight and nostalgia. It is a direct nod to the historic Starck club, a key venue in the early rave era where legendary stories abound, including the notorious practice of giving out ecstasy pills with tickets. This reference anchors the EP in rave heritage while pushing forward with contemporary electronic production.
Ultimately, the “Gordon Starck” EP is a concise yet powerful statement from DJ Tennis. It serves as both a creatively rich production and a highly functional record for DJs, showcasing his refined abilities both as an artist crafting deep compositions and as someone who understands the needs of the club. The EP’s blend of rave tradition and modern flair is designed to fully captivate listeners and keep dancers moving.
