January ’97 was a wild moment for the deep-house world. Large Music had just lit the scene on fire with the end-of-’96 smash “Gabriel,” and the global buzz around the label was undeniable. At the same time, 95 North were becoming household names in dance circles, proudly carrying the torch for the emerging Baltimore house sound—raw, rhythmic, percussive, and undeniably soulful.

“Elevation” arrived right in that cultural crossroads and pulled out every stop. The drums hit with that signature 95 North swagger, the groove leans heavy into tribal percussion, and the now-iconic “Believe!” vocal stab injects a jolt of pure optimism. DJs from Chicago to London rinsed this one, and it even caught serious heat in the then-burgeoning UK Garage scene, where its hybrid swing and bold vocal energy felt right at home.

A personal favorite of founder Jeff Craven, this timeless cut finally gets the digital unveiling it always deserved.

Curated by Jeff Craven for Large Music LLC
Deep since 1993
For licensing: info@largemusic.com