Tom Esselle makes a triumphant return to Wolf Music Recordings with the WOLF EP 083, a four-track powerhouse that reaffirms his rising status in the deep house realm. Wolf Music Recordings, founded in the mid-2000s by Ifeoma, has long been a beacon for UK-flavored electronic sounds, nurturing artists who blend garage roots with modern dancefloor drive and earning a reputation for releases that resonate in intimate clubs and festival tents alike. Esselle, hot off his recent Rhythm Section outing and building on his 2022 Praise Bes EP for the label, delivers cuts primed for selectors craving that authentic underground pulse.
Livewire storms in first, channeling heads-down UK garage energy that grips from the outset and propels dancers into motion. It’s the perfect opener, with Esselle crafting a groove that echoes those smoky London nights where the beat never lets up. Don’t Have To follows as the EP’s soulful centerpiece, weaving lush keys around a heartfelt vocal that hits right in peak-time euphoria, making it a must-spin for house enthusiasts who live for those emotional lifts amid the sweat.
Flipping over, Small Talk brings quirky vocal flair over an infectious rhythm that demands replays, capturing the playful yet driving spirit of Esselle’s production style. It thrives in those transitional set moments, bridging deeper shades with upbeat flair. Spaced Out closes out with emotive chords that unfold gradually, diving into a profound depth that lingers long after the last note. This track showcases Esselle’s knack for building immersion, ideal for afterhours when the crowd seeks something truly enveloping.
Across the board, WOLF EP 083 pulses with the kind of unpretentious energy that defines the best underground house. Tom Esselle proves he’s hitting his stride, delivering a collection that slots effortlessly into DJ bags worldwide. From the garage-tinged drive to the soul-stirring melodies, every element screams quality craftsmanship tailored for fans and spinners who prioritize feel over flash. Wolf Music Recordings once again proves its prowess by platforming work that elevates the scene.
