[Fine Art Recordings]

The Hebrew word “shalom” means peace but it’s also a greeting and sometimes a goodbye. For Roni Nachum, a young producer from Jerusalem, “Guest Service Shalom” is one hell of a hello. His vinyl debut, which so skillfully walks between deep house moods and techno’s edges, arrives care of the shrewd A&R work of Nitzan at Fine Art Recordings. It’s also backed by a superb, decompressing remix by Mark E.

Although the term tech-house isn’t exactly en vogue at the moment, Nachum’s careful balance of placid tones and winding techno melodies is a fitting, vivid reminder of how fertile this middle ground can be. The slinky progression writhing on a bed of dusky chords is not unfamiliar, yet the combination grows more compelling with every bar as the tones sharpen. Nachum introduces clever snare and clap syncopations that drive home a rousing groove, but also relaxed, even peaceful vibes. Quite impressive for his first release. As he’s wont to do, Mark E crushes the BPMs to focus on the placid side of “Guest Service Shalom.” His snaking synth vamp is suspended in dreamy pads and gives way to a boogie beat and gregarious bass line that add enough muscle to draw warm up crowds onto the dance floor. A 10″ platter this precious won’t last long at only 300 copies, so you might want to get yours before it says “shalom” to stores’ shelves.