It was three years ago, when Tom Middleton - one part Jedi Knight, Reload and Global Communications maestro - assembled a compilation for 'a leading dance music magazine.'
To the keen listener, one gem stood out. Amid classics like Jazzanova's Ian Pooley remix and Black Science Orchestra's 'New Jersey Deep,' a newcomer held his own.
Three years later, that track, 'Niomi's Dream' - all outdoor atmosphere and euphoric melodies -now open's said newcomers album. And it seems like Shur-i-kan aka Tom Szirtes' debut release was well worth the wait.
It's as positive an opening shot as his name suggests. Pitched between Jazzanova and the classic IDM his mentor Mr Middleton is famous for, 'Advance' shines.
It's jazzy but not indulgent. Electronic but not alien. Warm but not wibbling. Did we mention the hip hop, NY garage, Detroit techno and jungle flavours?
Despite the cold Mongolian snow the cover artwork depicts, warm is most definitely the byword here. Tracks like 'Cookie' beam positivity, soaked as they are in lush strings and sunk around tight breaks. It has the power of a big-room house record, without being arsed to actually kick off.
Why sweat when you can bask out in the garden instead? 'Advance' : a blissful summer-evening-under-the-orchard of an album. Sit back, relax and let yourself go.
