Higher State Of Consciousness (Josh Wink)

• breakbeat
• hard-house
• acid
• Josh Wink

In the annals of electronic music history, few records stand out as vividly as Josh Wink’s 1995 masterpiece, “Higher State of Consciousness.” A Philadelphia native, Wink was already an accomplished DJ, label owner, and producer when he released this iconic track that would forever change the landscape of electronic music. As the co-founder of Ovum Recordings alongside King Britt, Wink’s impact on the scene cannot be overstated, and “Higher State of Consciousness” remains a testament to his brilliance.

Looking back from today’s perspective, it’s clear that “Higher State of Consciousness” was a harbinger of the future. The release features three distinct versions of the track, each showcasing Wink’s ability to innovate and experiment with various forms of electronic music. From the relentless energy of the DJ Wink’s Hardhouse Mix to the hypnotic grooves of the 611 Acid Groove Mix, and finally, the downright funky Tweekin Acid Funk version, this release exemplified Wink’s versatility as a producer and his willingness to push boundaries.

Listening to “Higher State of Consciousness” now, it is evident that the song was born from the same primordial soup that gave rise to a plethora of groundbreaking electronic music artists. One can easily detect the influence of luminaries such as Aphex Twin, The Chemical Brothers, and Daft Punk in Wink’s distinctive approach to crafting sonic landscapes. And yet, “Higher State of Consciousness” stands alone as a singular work of art, a testament to Wink’s ability to synthesize disparate elements into a coherent and captivating whole.

The DJ Wink’s Hardhouse Mix is an adrenaline-infused rollercoaster that hurtles through the dark, pulsating heart of the dancefloor. The track’s structure is a daring feat of musical engineering, defying conventional norms as it constantly evolves and mutates. Its rhythm is a living, breathing organism, luring listeners into its hypnotic grip and refusing to let go. The melody, in turn, is an acid-tinged siren call, beckoning the listener to surrender to the track’s irresistible allure.

The 611 Acid Groove Mix, on the other hand, delves deeper into the realm of psychedelic exploration. This version revels in its hypnotic grooves, lulling the listener into a trance-like state as the acid lines meander and intertwine, forming intricate sonic tapestries. Here, the rhythm is a shapeshifting beast, constantly transforming and adapting, while the melody takes on an otherworldly quality, as if it were a celestial entity guiding the listener on an introspective journey.

Finally, the Tweekin Acid Funk version is a celebration of electronic music’s capacity for pure, unadulterated fun. This iteration of “Higher State of Consciousness” is a playground for Wink’s creative instincts, allowing him to indulge in his love of funk-infused grooves and infectious hooks. The rhythm is a mischievous sprite, darting and weaving through the track with joyful abandon, while the melody becomes a playful, almost impish character that dares the listener not to get caught up in its exuberant energy.

“Higher State of Consciousness” is not merely a collection of tracks; it is an auditory experience that transports the listener to new realms of perception. Each version offers a unique interpretation of the song’s central theme: the pursuit of a transcendent state of being, achieved through the power of music. With “Higher State of Consciousness,” Wink sought to explore the very essence of electronic music, pushing the boundaries of what was considered possible and ultimately opening the door to new sonic dimensions.

As a cornerstone of Wink’s discography, “Higher State of Consciousness” embodies the spirit of innovation and boundary-pushing that has defined his career. It is a reflection of his tireless dedication to exploring the limits of electronic music, and it remains a shining example of his artistic vision. The song’s enduring influence can be felt throughout the electronic music landscape, from the genre-defying work of artists like Richie Hawtin and Moby to the boundary-pushing sounds of contemporary producers like Jon Hopkins and Amelie Lens.

In “Higher State of Consciousness,” Wink encapsulated a moment in time, one in which electronic music was on the cusp of breaking through to the mainstream consciousness. The record served as a harbinger of the genre’s impending explosion, capturing the zeitgeist of the mid-’90s and foreshadowing the incredible sonic adventures that would follow. At the same time, the song remains firmly rooted in its era, reflecting the vibrant and diverse electronic music scene that flourished during that time.

One cannot discuss “Higher State of Consciousness” without acknowledging the profound impact it had on the electronic music community. The song’s release heralded a new age of experimentation, with producers eagerly pushing the boundaries of their craft in an attempt to emulate Wink’s groundbreaking work. The release served as a rallying cry for a generation of artists who sought to challenge the status quo and redefine the very essence of electronic music.

In many ways, “Higher State of Consciousness” is the electronic music equivalent of the mythic hero’s journey. The song is a testament to Wink’s quest for sonic enlightenment, his unwavering belief in the power of music to transport the listener to new heights of awareness. The record’s enduring legacy can be found not just in the countless artists it has inspired, but in the countless lives it has touched, providing a soundtrack to countless unforgettable moments on dancefloors around the world.

The literary device of personification is employed seamlessly throughout this review, imbuing “Higher State of Consciousness” with a sense of life and vitality that extends beyond its sonic components. The rhythm is described as a living, breathing organism and a shapeshifting beast, while the melody takes on the roles of a celestial entity and a mischievous sprite. These personifications serve to further emphasize the record’s transformative impact on both the listener and the electronic music landscape as a whole.

In conclusion, “Higher State of Consciousness” is a seminal work of electronic music that remains as relevant and groundbreaking today as it was when it was first released in 1995. Josh Wink’s visionary approach to production, his willingness to experiment with different styles and genres, and his unrelenting pursuit of a transcendent musical experience have cemented his place in the annals of electronic music history. As we look back on the age of the record, we can appreciate not only its undeniable influence on the artists who followed in Wink’s footsteps but also the indelible mark it has left on the hearts and minds of electronic music fans the world over.