“Gegenlicht” by Collx is a refreshing outlier in the 2025 electronic music landscape, successfully bridging the gap between mainstream melodic deep house and introspective German songwriting. Released in November, the track serves as a sonic meditation on the paradox of feeling stationary while the world continues to move, a theme reflected perfectly in its title, which translates to “backlight.”
The production, helmed by Agim Osmani and Sinan Ari, is a masterclass in atmospheric restraint. While the track’s origins reportedly began as a trap concept, its evolution into deep house feels natural rather than forced. The arrangement is built around a pulsing, hypnotic bassline and ethereal synth pads that mirror the “drone footage” inspiration cited by the artist. It captures the vastness of a coastal landscape, creating a sense of space that allows the listener to breathe.
What elevates “Gegenlicht” from a standard club track is the vocal contribution of Rüdiger Stoffelen. German-language vocals in deep house can often feel clunky, but here the lyricism is woven seamlessly into the rhythmic fabric of the song. The metaphor of the “backlight”, where details are obscured and only silhouettes remain, is used effectively to describe emotional ambiguity. It’s a song about the “in between” moments of life, capturing that specific feeling of being stuck in a rut while still catching glimpses of hope on the horizon.
Ultimately, Collx has delivered a track that is as functional on a late night highway drive as it is on a dancefloor. It avoids the aggressive drops typical of the genre, opting instead for a steady, emotional build that rewards repeated listens. For those looking for electronic music with a philosophical edge, “Gegenlicht” is a standout release that proves deep house can be both danceable and deeply personal.
This has been added to our Lit Vibes Spotify Playlist. Discover all the incredible artists featured and give the playlist a follow to stay tuned for more great music!
