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A Windsor Homecoming: Justin James Remixes Marc Houle's "Has To Do"

​We're not entirely sure what they're putting in the water in Windsor, but whatever it is, techno fans want to bottle it.

We're not entirely sure what they're putting in the water in Windsor, but whatever it is, techno fans want to bottle it. The newest track to emerge from the city is Justin James' remix of fellow Windsor native and minimal techno pioneer Marc Houle's "Has To Do." The kicker? It's being released via another one of Windsor's prodigal sons, Richie Hawtin and his venerated Minus label.

For those familiar with James' work, his "Has To Do" remix contains all the signature stylings that make his music so unique and infectious, and for the uninitiated, this should serve as an excellent crash course. James' latest is a twisting techno trek through dark, ominous synths, a relentlessly upbeat and groovy beat, and a dash of something eerie, mystical or transcendental—all hallmarks of a Minus release.

The "Has To Do" remix is set to feature on Marc Houle's upcoming Restored album, which is a remix package of his seminal Restore LP, released on Minus a decade ago.

"Restore was the beginning of it all for me," Marc Houle said about the project. "It was influenced by the sounds of Detroit and the endless parties I went to there in the '90s. It was my first album and to me it had the perfect balance of darkness, groove and electronic sounds."

Restored will also include cuts from Joris Voorn, Julian Jeweil, M.A.N.D.Y., and more. The remix album will be available April 6 digitally and on vinyl.

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