Lucy Fitzgerald 
From the moment the first beat hits, Desire grabs you. This deep, soulful house track by Merittocracy (aka Mani S) is smooth, bold, and full of life. A reimagining of an earlier piece from his electro-soul group YOYOHONEY, Desire now pulses with fresh intensity. The ever-iconic Jocelyn Brown delivers a powerful performance that turns the track into something truly special.
With a history rich in funk, dub, and acid jazz, Mani S brings all his influences to the table here. The result is a groove that feels grounded yet elevated. Drawing from the raw spirit of Chicago house and layering it with lush electronic textures, he creates a vibe that flows effortlessly. Jocelyn Brown, known for classics like Somebody Else’s Guy and her work with Incognito, brings emotion and presence that fills the track with soul.
The beat is gutsy. The bass line cuts deep. Subtle ambient touches and crisp percussion create a space where the energy can build and breathe. It’s got weight and movement, perfect for both a dance floor or a late-night listen.
As a rework, this version of Desire feels complete. There’s a strong sense of growth from the original, now molded with greater precision and purpose. Mani S has clearly taken the time to not just remix a track, but to reimagine it fully, honoring the original while taking it somewhere entirely new.
This release stands out as one of the most compelling deep house offerings in recent months. It’s got rhythm, soul, and a sense of storytelling that’s impossible to ignore.
Be sure to follow Merittocracy and Jocelyn Brown, and don’t miss out on Desire. Add it to your playlists, share it with your people, and turn it up. This is one of those tracks that sticks with you.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night
