Detroit’s Rick Wade Achieves House Perfection on “Deep Incantations Trilogy Vol. 2”

Rick Wade doesn’t really do eras: he does eternities.

Since the early ’90s, the Michigan-born, Detroit-forged deep house veteran has been chiseling away at a sound that feels less like a genre and more like an elemental force. His new EP, “Deep Incantations Trilogy Vol. 2” on Art Is The Place, is another reminder that while trends sputter in and out of fashion, Wade keeps the groove infinite. Arriving seven months after the trilogy’s first instillation, this is a four-tracker of Detroit house bliss.

The opener, “Level Up”, immediately sets a celestial tone. Angelic vocals float over a whimsical groove that’s buoyant yet grounded, like sunrise after a sleepless night. Then comes “Big Ha Blues”, which strips things back to pillowy pads and wet claps, sounding simultaneously hypnotic and danceable. On “Intrusive Emotions”, Wade pulls us deeper into the basement with thumping low end, but softens the edges with flickering jazz keys. Finally, “Bitter Sweet” closes the record with grit, dust, and imperfect textures that make the track feel nostalgic and homey.

Wade has been called a “DJ’s DJ” and a “producer’s producer,” and it’s easy to see why. His tracks are floor fillers that also function as time capsules. From his first gigs at the Nectarine Ballroom, to his Harmonie Park label, to his countless 12-inches across Moods & Grooves, Track Mode, and beyond, Wade has always played the long game.

“Deep Incantations Trilogy Vol. 2” doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but that’s really not the point. It spins the wheel smoother, truer, and deeper than almost anyone else can manage. It’s another faultless outing from a man who has dedicated himself to the scene, and a truly spectacular package. We cannot wait for volume 3!

Buy “Deep Incantations Trilogy Vol. 2” here.