Jens Lissat & Bonzai All Stars – Imagination

Release Date – April 28, 2023

Up next on Bonzai Records we have a trio of legends on one fine slice of wax with their collaboration on Jen’s (as Prayers) 1992 classic ‘Imagination’. None of these guys need any introduction really, their list of exploits would make War and Peace look like an school essay. Jens Lissat aka ‘The Godfather Of Techno’ had a new vision for this retro gem and so, after casually chatting with Fly (Bonzai’s head honcho) the deal was done. He is joined by fellow veterans Christian Pieters and Dany Van Der Rieten aka Bonzai All Stars, who have over 6 decades of experience in the music scene between them. So we’ll let the music do the talking here.

The Original Mix opens the release in the A1 slot and right from the off we’re locked into a surging, dancey groove thanks to chunky beats and an infectious rolling bassline. The original melody fades through before that distinctively enchanting vocal shines. A proper, full-on dancefloor weapon, not to be missed. Up next, in A2, the Rave Mix does exactly what it says on the tin, delivering a high energy slice of rave goodness. Powerful, punchy kicks and crispy hats provide the backdrop of a saturated 303 groove with an underlying bass rumble. The vocal dominates on the break as big synths stack up for that definitive arena experience that will not disappoint.

On the flip, in B1, Jens, Fly and Dany get to work on their Crunchy 303 Mix which is a stomping 303 laden gem. Heavy acid lines contrast against murky pads while on the break, the sublime vocal is joined by soft melodies before a chaotic build up delivers the drop where we’re treated to some hair-raising old skool piano moments. Concluding the release in the B2 slot, we have the 1992 original version of Prayers’ ‘Imagination’. A sublime house joint with deep vibes and a moody exterior. Built around a stand-out vocal performance the groove is tight and filled with warm basses, squelchy acid lines, soft melodies and of course, that iconic piano riff. A true gem of a track.