Jack J
“Thirstin’ ”/“Atmosphere” (Future Times)

Jack Jutson used to play in the tropical-pop trio No Gold, but these days, he helps to oversee the local electronic-music collective Mood Hut. Under this banner, he makes up one half of the clubby duo Pender Street Steppers, and he also rolls out the occasional solo release such as this one.

While Jutson’s past solo work has sometimes emphasized extended ambient drones, this 12-inch single highlights his more danceable tendencies. A-side “Thirstin’” rides a thudding six-minute groove filled with bopping conga samples and bubbly bass. This hypnotic rhythmic surge is given a dash of mellow melodic sweetness by some simple, lounge-worthy electric-piano plunks and a simple, catchy vocal refrain.

B-side “Atmosphere”, on the other hand, initially lowers the energy by beginning with a minimal intro of tin­kling piano and swirling otherworldly tones. A little more than a minute in, the trippy soundscape melts away and we’re left with a shimmying drum-machine pulse accompanied by hip-waggling funk bass and jazzy keys. This instrumental track is full of subtle sonic details, from the restrained use of echo to the expertly placed percussive fills.

It’s an effective combination of danceable rhythms and gorgeous production, meaning that this 12-inch will sound equally great while you’re boogying at a party or listening alone on headphones.