Brighton's boutique house label Black Key Recordskicks off 2017 with a fantastic EP from label newcomer Cinthie. Cinthie is a well established force in Berlin: as well as being a resident at key spots [IPSE] and Humboldthain Club-where she spins heady vinyl only sets-she runs three much loved labels and collectives in Beste Modus, Unison Wax and Beste Freunde. As such, she is a true leader of the underground house scene who also runs a studio complex in Berlin, and so is very much at the heart of the house conversation. Kicking things off is the excellent 'House Rhythms', a rugged, bass driven, deep house cut with flabby drums and snares and icy hi hats all sounding informed by classic deep house greats like Ron Trent. Warm, soul infused pads emanate from the core and the whole unhurried affair really sucks you in with its cosy and romantic atmosphere. The second splendid offering is 'Liberty,' a much rawerand direct cut designed for peak time sets. Again it is riddled with jazzy chords that have real soul, but the drums are exposed and banging and the whole thing barrels along at a sweat inducing pace. This is a typically classy offering from both artist and label that kicks off 2017 in real style.