Introducing Unsung Heroes!: AxEr [Axwell & Eric Prydz] – 123 (Original Mix)

Your EDM StaffNovember 12, 2012

Welcome to Unsung Heroes! Unsung Heroes is a brand new weekly segment where we take a look back at an amazing production and bring it back into the light for older and newer fans alike. These tracks were often overlooked, overshadowed by a huge release or are just not that well known to the public here in America. Here, you can find all the hidden gems in many genres and find a new favorite track (or another tool/weapon for aspiring DJ’s).

Today, on the first ever Unsung Heroes, we take a look at a special collaboration between two titans of electronic music: Axwell and Eric Prydz. Back before these two went their separate ways production wise, the Swedes were the closest of friends with Steve Angelo and Sebastian Ingrosso, often remixing each others tracks and collaborating such as Steve Angelo & Eric Prydz- Woz Not Woz (Original Mix). In 2006, Axwell and Sebastian Ingrosso, under their Supermode moniker, released their hit track, Tell Me Why, (which was a remake of Bronski Beat’s Smalltown Boy). Later on that year, Axwell teamed up with Eric Prydz for two productions, which would happen to be the only two productions they ever collaborated on. The result was a new name entitled AxEr (AXwell & ERic Prydz). They created a two track EP, one of which was called 123 (Original Mix). This was a significant tune because it was the first ever track to be released under Prydz’s new Pryda Friends Label at the time.

123 is one of those tracks that is not an instant dance floor smasher, but one that is minimally artistic and a track that one can’t help but move their feet to. This is one that has an instant hook and a classic sound to take dancers back to before dance music exploded in America. You can hear the influences from both, as the synth is undeniable Axwell while the superb percussion is masterfully produced by Eric Prydz. The melody is a simple one bar motif that is repeated over and over again, but this track really shines through its percussion. It is minimal that it is the same thing repeating over and over again, but listeners can hear slight changes within the track, still giving it that drive. Whether it is a change of high hat or a sudden two beat filter muffle or a new instrument (such as the claves), it keeps people interested and waiting to see how the track will change again. 123 is not one that builds up to a crazy drop and then lowers back, but a journey of sounds that invites the listener to experience. It is essential Eric Prydz and classic Axwell with a huge track that deserves re-recognition. Get on over to Beatport and download this hidden beauty to add to your collection today.