A perfect half-dozen finds GMJ & Matter's legendary label making its annual trip across the globe to celebrate deep Progressive House, courtesy of "Meanwhile Excursions, Vol. 6". Opening proceedings in typically majestic fashion, Melbourne's finest and Meanwhile co-founder GMJ, hits rarified heights with the immaculate "Quintessence". Driven by a deep kick and hypnotic shakers a leviathan bass groove, ethereal pads and subtle melodies create a wondrous whole. Rosario-based DJ and music producer, Julieta Kühnle then picks up the mantle with "Altered State", a chunky percussive roller that radiates energy via syncopated arpeggio, sublimely worked bassline and evolving melodic bliss, before Dutch master Kebin van Reeken then continues the rich melodic narrative with "Something About You". Redolent in hypnotic and gradually open-filtered riff, a smouldering vocal then appears to accompany a head-shaking groove and satisfying denouement at the gently pulsing breakdown. "Land of Sun" finds Meanwhile co-founder, Matter, in familiar sonic territory with a glorious sonic storytelling that captures the touchstone of modern deep progressive with its rippling arpeggiated patterns and delicate key changes, while Argentine native, Ric Niels begins to pick up the pace with his inspired "Maniac". Full of buzzing synth vibrancy, fizzing white-noise washes and muted arpeggios create a wonderfully textured soundscape where rhythm and melody combine in a seamless whole. Regular on the all-conquering Mango Alley, Sam Scheme is an artist whose talent has flourished over a decade's releases. Hitting the mark with "Leaves" a multi-layered rhythmic foundation sits atop a throbbing sub-bass and mid-range groove. A mesmerising 16th note then introduces a delicate melody while gated white-noise effects create a generous widescreen soundscape. The bouncing bass groove of "Echo Temple" finds another trio of Rosario residents take centre stage as Abity and Luca Abayan sculpt a rolling bassline groove from a dominant low-end that focuses dancefloor energy. Gently pulsating pads and reverb-drenched melody, combine with spoken vocal elements to create an eerie but hypnotising sonic adventure that showcases Argentina's deep affiliation with the Progressive House scene. For the penultimate track, Mango – head-honcho of top 5 Beatport Progressive House imprint Mango Alley – forges a productive collaborative partnership with Kenan Savrun whose work for RKP, Lowbit Deep and Timeless Moment has seen the Turkish star hit creative heights. "Tremor" is thus a typically dramatic and evocative track that bristles with low-end energy and intricate percussive backdrop before a gloriously muted synth phrase takes centre stage. Closing the album, La Cura de la Semena founder and Cuban DJ/producer, Ryan (CU), joins forces with Spanish producer, Odax, whose work for Nick Warren's The Soundgarden has lit up a blossoming career. Full of the deep melodic credentials that have shone through their counterparts' work, a swaying percussing groove and meandering pads sit underneath intelligent melodic urgency and analogue majesty to create the aptly named "Space in Flux". A powerful reminder of global talent in the Progressive House arena, "Meanwhile Excursions, Vol. 6" mines the northern and southern hemisphere and returns laden with eight glittering jewels. Directed by GMJ & Matter Mastered by Cid Inc. Design by Matter Text by James Warren