#9 Top Releases in Progressive House

Approaching the end of another successful year, Meanwhile welcomes Fran Garay to the label with the powerful Restored / Irresponsible / Ill Be Better EP. Immersed in the world of electronic music from an early age, Fran Garay journeyed along a pathway of Dubstep and EDM before reaching a destination where he discovered Progressive House aged 16, inspired by the sounds of Martín García. From this epiphany, the Argentine producer has quickly become a staple of the progressive fraternity with over a century of production credits dating back to a 2020 debut on 3rd Avenue. Since then, Balkan Connection, Paul Thomass UV Noir, Forty Cats PURRFECTION and Mangos Mango Alley have played host to the Fran Garay sound. Now the Villa Mercedes resident from San Luis province returns to Meanwhile after a debut on September 2024s Meanwhile Excursions, Vol. 4 compilation. Showcasing his distinctive and versatile sound, Restored is powered by traditional, club-friendly tropes. A dynamic rhythmic backdrop creates a high-energy vibe while a rolling bassline groove creates dancefloor character. A syncopated motif brings mid-range joy in effortlessly shifting repetitions, culminating in a white noise-fuelled breakdown before reaching its zenith in the second half. Here, the full cast of melodic and rhythmic actors join forces in a chorus of pitched synth phrases that rise, in siren-like intensity, before dropping back into the magnificent rhythm and bassline melange of earlier phases. Irresponsible boasts a huge thumping beat and rolling groove, while a subterranean bassline joins the throng, blending seamlessly alongside the rising melodic themes. Held together with an invisible sonic glue, a cascading and fractured analogue lead sequence glistens like shards of broken glass in the autumn sunlight. Subtly shifting patterns of light and dark rise and fall in intensity as the complex melodic patterns rotate around a central theme. The result is an innovative and unique track. Following the themes of its predecessor, Ill Be Better, continues the driving rhythmic framework with lighter shaker patterns adding delicate urgency. Once again, shifting motifs are in full evidence, this time punctuated by a flowing freeform pattern that gradually appears from the second movement. Evolving easily, the track erupts after the mid-point breakdown into a glorious collage of shifting sonic patterns that command listener attention, in turn creating an awe-inspiring listener experience. Full of intriguing sonic landscapes and a unique approach to his craft, Fran Garay has certainly risen to new heights with his Restored / Irresponsible / Ill Be Better EP. Directed by GMJ & Matter Mastered by Cid Inc. Design by Matter Text by James Warren

Fran Garay

#11 Feat. New Releases in Overall

Delving into an ever-growing archive of blue-chip releases, GMJ & Matter end the year with a compilation of the highest quality. "Meanwhile Impressions - 2023" is a new series that takes a retrospective look back at another year chock full of musical highs after another phenomenally successful year for the label. Combining original works from the likes of Simos Tagias, label head-honchos themselves and fellow countryman, Jamie Stevens, remixes come from industry icons such as Hernan Cattaneo & Marcelo Vasami, and Cid Inc. Adding further to the smooth sonic latticework, rising stars Mike Rish, Tantum and Ruben Karapetyan fit elegantly into the 12-track showcase that is the perfect snapshot of an exciting year before Meanwhile continues its assault on the progressive house scene throughout 2024. Directed by GMJ & Matter Mastered by Cid Inc. Design by Matter Text by James Warren

GMJ, Matter, Alex O'Rion, Ezequiel Arias, Jamie Stevens, Jiminy Hop, Mike Rish, Simos Tagias, Tantum, Ivan Aliaga, Ruben Karapetyan

#20 Top Tracks in Progressive House

2025-11-28 Progressive House

Fran Garay

#51 Feat. Banner in Progressive House

Back for a fourth incarnation of the best-selling series, GMJ and Matter unearth the next batch of rare precious gemstones, courtesy of Meanwhile Excursions, Vol. 4. An album full of progressive promise from across the globe, US producer Sam Scheme opens proceedings, using a huge sub-bassline to devastating effect across Episode #9. Juxtaposed against muted, twinkling synth motifs and huge driving rhythm, it paves the way for Meanwhile supremo, GMJ, to deliver another majestic offering. Announcing his Higher Self through a meticulously arranged combination of deep bassline presence, thickly textured pads and dynamic arp, all the hallmarks of the Australians renowned production sound are in full evidence as a hypnotic powerhouse evolves over its duration. Regular on the likes of super-labels, Bedrock, Mango Alley and Lost & Found, Tantum showcases his sought-after sound through earworm motif, powerful effects and a developing soundscape. Further enhanced by Zurich-based YANIQ, the Swiss producers genre-blurring fusion of Progressive House and Melodic Techno gives Pluto a sound as sharp as a razors edge. Argentinean force, Not Demure, continues to serve up a bountiful supply of impressive releases as we move towards the end of 2025. Building on work for Movement, Worlds Apart and Paul Hazendonks Manual Music, Doomsday is a typically bristling affair, full of dark majesty and sprawling sci-fi landscapes. The result is a gloriously dynamic and complex affair with flashes of light sonic touch at the break. Fellow Meanwhile head honcho, Matter, never fails to disappoint, and Helios is no exception. Aptly named, shimmering sunlit melodies float across the track, developing out of a driving, mesmerising beat and delivering a devastating progressive number. Performing to a growing fanbase across North America, Europe and the Middle East, Kostya Outta confirms himself as a force to be reckoned with through Cloudy. Strong in melodic counterpoint and filtered synth phrasing, a rolling beat and light percussive touch illustrate the Russian stars dancefloor flair before prolific Belarusian artist, Michael A, adds to his 1300 production credits with a typically lavish combination of hypnotic rhythm and escalating melodic patterns. Trademark arps, thickly textured pads and stuttered vocal cuts add to the collage. The final trio sees a debut for important Cuban DJ, Ryan (CU). Founder of the La Cura de la Semena imprint, Succubus is redolent in Latin percussive flair which pans the stereo spectrum while a haunting motif flows freely atop. Providing a unique and innovative vibe, it paves the way for Michael Bennetts The Last Stand to hit effortless heights with full rhythmic force and gently pulsating pads for the Vapour, Mango Alley and Zero Tolerance regular. A relative newcomer, a gated melody and huge post-breakdown drop, keep intrigue high with a chorus of effects and bassline groove. The final act sees Israeli and Italian icons, Lonya and Graziano Raffa combine on the delightfully laid-back Breakups. Heavyweights of the underground scene for more than 15 years, a combination of deliciously smooth and evocative melodies drifts in nostalgic fashion over a heavy beat and sumptuous pads, made all the more powerful by a lead guitar motif in the second half. Hitting the heights once more with its global travels across the sound of Progressive House, Meanwhile Excursions, Vol. 4 is a sonic journey like no other. Directed by GMJ & Matter Mastered by Cid Inc. Design by Matter Text by James Warren

Sam Scheme, GMJ, Tantum, YANIQ, Not Demure, Matter, Kostya Outta, Michael A, RYAN (CU), Michael Bennett, Graziano Raffa, Lonya

#51 Feat. Staff Picks in Progressive House

Back for a fourth incarnation of the best-selling series, GMJ and Matter unearth the next batch of rare precious gemstones, courtesy of Meanwhile Excursions, Vol. 4. An album full of progressive promise from across the globe, US producer Sam Scheme opens proceedings, using a huge sub-bassline to devastating effect across Episode #9. Juxtaposed against muted, twinkling synth motifs and huge driving rhythm, it paves the way for Meanwhile supremo, GMJ, to deliver another majestic offering. Announcing his Higher Self through a meticulously arranged combination of deep bassline presence, thickly textured pads and dynamic arp, all the hallmarks of the Australians renowned production sound are in full evidence as a hypnotic powerhouse evolves over its duration. Regular on the likes of super-labels, Bedrock, Mango Alley and Lost & Found, Tantum showcases his sought-after sound through earworm motif, powerful effects and a developing soundscape. Further enhanced by Zurich-based YANIQ, the Swiss producers genre-blurring fusion of Progressive House and Melodic Techno gives Pluto a sound as sharp as a razors edge. Argentinean force, Not Demure, continues to serve up a bountiful supply of impressive releases as we move towards the end of 2025. Building on work for Movement, Worlds Apart and Paul Hazendonks Manual Music, Doomsday is a typically bristling affair, full of dark majesty and sprawling sci-fi landscapes. The result is a gloriously dynamic and complex affair with flashes of light sonic touch at the break. Fellow Meanwhile head honcho, Matter, never fails to disappoint, and Helios is no exception. Aptly named, shimmering sunlit melodies float across the track, developing out of a driving, mesmerising beat and delivering a devastating progressive number. Performing to a growing fanbase across North America, Europe and the Middle East, Kostya Outta confirms himself as a force to be reckoned with through Cloudy. Strong in melodic counterpoint and filtered synth phrasing, a rolling beat and light percussive touch illustrate the Russian stars dancefloor flair before prolific Belarusian artist, Michael A, adds to his 1300 production credits with a typically lavish combination of hypnotic rhythm and escalating melodic patterns. Trademark arps, thickly textured pads and stuttered vocal cuts add to the collage. The final trio sees a debut for important Cuban DJ, Ryan (CU). Founder of the La Cura de la Semena imprint, Succubus is redolent in Latin percussive flair which pans the stereo spectrum while a haunting motif flows freely atop. Providing a unique and innovative vibe, it paves the way for Michael Bennetts The Last Stand to hit effortless heights with full rhythmic force and gently pulsating pads for the Vapour, Mango Alley and Zero Tolerance regular. A relative newcomer, a gated melody and huge post-breakdown drop, keep intrigue high with a chorus of effects and bassline groove. The final act sees Israeli and Italian icons, Lonya and Graziano Raffa combine on the delightfully laid-back Breakups. Heavyweights of the underground scene for more than 15 years, a combination of deliciously smooth and evocative melodies drifts in nostalgic fashion over a heavy beat and sumptuous pads, made all the more powerful by a lead guitar motif in the second half. Hitting the heights once more with its global travels across the sound of Progressive House, Meanwhile Excursions, Vol. 4 is a sonic journey like no other. Directed by GMJ & Matter Mastered by Cid Inc. Design by Matter Text by James Warren

Sam Scheme, GMJ, Tantum, YANIQ, Not Demure, Matter, Kostya Outta, Michael A, RYAN (CU), Michael Bennett, Graziano Raffa, Lonya

#51 Feat. Banner in Progressive House

Back for a fourth incarnation of the best-selling series, GMJ and Matter unearth the next batch of rare precious gemstones, courtesy of Meanwhile Excursions, Vol. 4. An album full of progressive promise from across the globe, US producer Sam Scheme opens proceedings, using a huge sub-bassline to devastating effect across Episode #9. Juxtaposed against muted, twinkling synth motifs and huge driving rhythm, it paves the way for Meanwhile supremo, GMJ, to deliver another majestic offering. Announcing his Higher Self through a meticulously arranged combination of deep bassline presence, thickly textured pads and dynamic arp, all the hallmarks of the Australians renowned production sound are in full evidence as a hypnotic powerhouse evolves over its duration. Regular on the likes of super-labels, Bedrock, Mango Alley and Lost & Found, Tantum showcases his sought-after sound through earworm motif, powerful effects and a developing soundscape. Further enhanced by Zurich-based YANIQ, the Swiss producers genre-blurring fusion of Progressive House and Melodic Techno gives Pluto a sound as sharp as a razors edge. Argentinean force, Not Demure, continues to serve up a bountiful supply of impressive releases as we move towards the end of 2025. Building on work for Movement, Worlds Apart and Paul Hazendonks Manual Music, Doomsday is a typically bristling affair, full of dark majesty and sprawling sci-fi landscapes. The result is a gloriously dynamic and complex affair with flashes of light sonic touch at the break. Fellow Meanwhile head honcho, Matter, never fails to disappoint, and Helios is no exception. Aptly named, shimmering sunlit melodies float across the track, developing out of a driving, mesmerising beat and delivering a devastating progressive number. Performing to a growing fanbase across North America, Europe and the Middle East, Kostya Outta confirms himself as a force to be reckoned with through Cloudy. Strong in melodic counterpoint and filtered synth phrasing, a rolling beat and light percussive touch illustrate the Russian stars dancefloor flair before prolific Belarusian artist, Michael A, adds to his 1300 production credits with a typically lavish combination of hypnotic rhythm and escalating melodic patterns. Trademark arps, thickly textured pads and stuttered vocal cuts add to the collage. The final trio sees a debut for important Cuban DJ, Ryan (CU). Founder of the La Cura de la Semena imprint, Succubus is redolent in Latin percussive flair which pans the stereo spectrum while a haunting motif flows freely atop. Providing a unique and innovative vibe, it paves the way for Michael Bennetts The Last Stand to hit effortless heights with full rhythmic force and gently pulsating pads for the Vapour, Mango Alley and Zero Tolerance regular. A relative newcomer, a gated melody and huge post-breakdown drop, keep intrigue high with a chorus of effects and bassline groove. The final act sees Israeli and Italian icons, Lonya and Graziano Raffa combine on the delightfully laid-back Breakups. Heavyweights of the underground scene for more than 15 years, a combination of deliciously smooth and evocative melodies drifts in nostalgic fashion over a heavy beat and sumptuous pads, made all the more powerful by a lead guitar motif in the second half. Hitting the heights once more with its global travels across the sound of Progressive House, Meanwhile Excursions, Vol. 4 is a sonic journey like no other. Directed by GMJ & Matter Mastered by Cid Inc. Design by Matter Text by James Warren

Sam Scheme, GMJ, Tantum, YANIQ, Not Demure, Matter, Kostya Outta, Michael A, RYAN (CU), Michael Bennett, Graziano Raffa, Lonya

#80 Top Overall Releases

Approaching the end of another successful year, Meanwhile welcomes Fran Garay to the label with the powerful Restored / Irresponsible / Ill Be Better EP. Immersed in the world of electronic music from an early age, Fran Garay journeyed along a pathway of Dubstep and EDM before reaching a destination where he discovered Progressive House aged 16, inspired by the sounds of Martín García. From this epiphany, the Argentine producer has quickly become a staple of the progressive fraternity with over a century of production credits dating back to a 2020 debut on 3rd Avenue. Since then, Balkan Connection, Paul Thomass UV Noir, Forty Cats PURRFECTION and Mangos Mango Alley have played host to the Fran Garay sound. Now the Villa Mercedes resident from San Luis province returns to Meanwhile after a debut on September 2024s Meanwhile Excursions, Vol. 4 compilation. Showcasing his distinctive and versatile sound, Restored is powered by traditional, club-friendly tropes. A dynamic rhythmic backdrop creates a high-energy vibe while a rolling bassline groove creates dancefloor character. A syncopated motif brings mid-range joy in effortlessly shifting repetitions, culminating in a white noise-fuelled breakdown before reaching its zenith in the second half. Here, the full cast of melodic and rhythmic actors join forces in a chorus of pitched synth phrases that rise, in siren-like intensity, before dropping back into the magnificent rhythm and bassline melange of earlier phases. Irresponsible boasts a huge thumping beat and rolling groove, while a subterranean bassline joins the throng, blending seamlessly alongside the rising melodic themes. Held together with an invisible sonic glue, a cascading and fractured analogue lead sequence glistens like shards of broken glass in the autumn sunlight. Subtly shifting patterns of light and dark rise and fall in intensity as the complex melodic patterns rotate around a central theme. The result is an innovative and unique track. Following the themes of its predecessor, Ill Be Better, continues the driving rhythmic framework with lighter shaker patterns adding delicate urgency. Once again, shifting motifs are in full evidence, this time punctuated by a flowing freeform pattern that gradually appears from the second movement. Evolving easily, the track erupts after the mid-point breakdown into a glorious collage of shifting sonic patterns that command listener attention, in turn creating an awe-inspiring listener experience. Full of intriguing sonic landscapes and a unique approach to his craft, Fran Garay has certainly risen to new heights with his Restored / Irresponsible / Ill Be Better EP. Directed by GMJ & Matter Mastered by Cid Inc. Design by Matter Text by James Warren

Fran Garay