Yousef’s Hypnotic “Heartbeat” Is Equal Parts Sweet and Sweat

More than 20 years in the game, with eight Essential Mixes to his credit, as well as the Circus label and events to his name, Yousef shows no signs of slowing down. For proof (should you need it) you need only turn to the second installment of the Spirit compilation on Damian Lazarus’ Crosstown Rebels imprint. This is where—among 10 other bumping tracks from Jonas Rathsman, Emanuel Satie, Nick Curly, Doorly, and more—you will find Yousef’s “Heartbeat.”

Mixing subtle tribal rhythms with uplifting strings and a slightly emotive vocal, “Heartbeat” radiates a windswept and cinematic vibe that teeters on the epic. It feels like the soundtrack to a poignant moment that is equal parts sweet and sweat. It is hypnotic in the way only some of the deepest house grooves can manage. It’s no wonder Lazarus included it on this latest round of secret-weapon tracks that have made his sets pop in the past year.

“’Heartbeat’ is a track I made as tribute to my children,” Yousef tells us. “It’s designed to be emotive and menacing and hopeful and even punishing, yet uplifting, which is parenthood personified! The tagline ‘I can feel your heartbeat’ is me literally speaking to my daughter Elea just when she was born—but the sentiment applies to both my incredible children. They are amazing people. It’s an honor to even know them, let alone be their father.”

Available November 23 via Crosstown Rebels.

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