Work 4 Love: Scene Veteran Stephen Day Drops A ’90s House Bomb That Detonates With Nostalgia

Stephen Day is a familiar face in the Singaporean scene (Credit: Courtesy of Stephen Day)

There’s been a glint of ’90s-tinted house this day and age, echoing the cyclic narrative of genres in dance music. It’s a serendipitous occurrence that’s been a boon for established veterans in the game, and this one stalwart is reaping the benefits. Seasoned mainstay Stephen Day has carved out his latest original and it’s a recharged jolter that packs vintage charm, with just enough zip and zap for the modern-day clubophile.

“Work 4 Love” is Stephen Day’s new number with some hasty heat, propelled by a nuance of urgency while taking its time to surprise with tonal curves and detours. Its shuffling breaks give it a bumpy topography, smoothened out with muted cavey basslines, a sprinkling of cherubic vocals and electric pianos laying down some grandiose chordwork. Its affection for nostalgia has helped it land a spot on Tensnake’s label, True Romance, turning global eyes towards the momentum of this Singapore-based export.

Stephen Day, originally from the UK, has been an ironclad staple of the local gig circuit. His track record speaks for itself, with noteworthy accolades spanning ZoukOut, Ministry of Sound, Stereolab, Ultra, kyō and much more. The reputable selector also flexes his chops as an instructor of his co-founded Beats Boutique, and as the brains behind the Solid Ground promotion that’s pulled in the likes of Cinthie, Alan Dixon and Deetron. Wearing his producer hat, Stephen has had tracks released on Plastik People, Large Records and Chronovision over the years, and his output on “Work 4 Love” truly shows a mastery that’s clear as day.