Side A’s “Intergalactic Love Song” by the Diddys & featuring Paige Douglas is a vocal version of the Charles Earland's instrumental classic (who also produced the track) & is a disco-tinge jazz-funk groover that you will want in your bag. It glides across the dancefllor with a breezy ease & pulls you in.
B. side
On the flip, we have“Searching The Circle” by Barbara & Ernie from the classic psyche-folk soul album “Prelude To …” (Ctollion - SD 9044), produced by Joel Thorn. It’s a wonderfully weird little record that has a sound that's unlike anything else I can think of.
This trippy early-70s folk-jazz-soul nugget featured here from guitarist Ernie Calabria & singer/keyboardist Barbara Massey (back-up for Cat Stevens, amongst others). Arrangements are by the pair, but Deodato also had a hand in the record too along w/ Grady Tate on drums, Ralph McDonald on percussion, & Sam Brown on guitar.
It holds a righteous groove undercurrent that recalls Richard Evans or Charles Stepney. Massey’s vocals have a flanged-out quality that's clearly overdubbed, creating a double-voiced sound that's almost a bit like Brasil 66! Completely
For this 4th release, Bazdesur records welcomes nothing less than its founder, Basile de Suresnes with the EP “Hush Money”, his really first appearance on the label. A collaborative work with the artist The Social Fugazi who was noticed a few months earlier on Frappé records. The two producers deliver a work that is surprising to say the least, as it contrasts with the universe that we knew from them. Here, no glitter or disco ball, no groovy bass line, but a sound made of machines, samples and broken rhythms. We find UK inspirations, Electronica, and a touch of house. A raw coloring totally assumed by the artists and enriched with their French “touch”. We like that. This EP reminds us of the richness and diversity of electronic music, and how good it is to mix styles! Bazdesur records promotes electronic music in the broad sense.
Unspecified Enemies, the project led by Louis Digital (Numbers, Counterattack, Arcola) present their debut album Romance in the Age of Adaptive Feedback.
Written and produced by Louis Digital, the album incorporates fragments of music data generated by long-time collaborator CiM (Ann Aimee, Delsin). Describing the title track, Louis Digital states:
“It’s the microelectronic sound of a city playing strange light games with itself, evoking bitcrushed desires and floating images, an urban phantasy stored on the broken circuits of an Ensoniq ASR-10.”
The origins of Romance in the Age of Adaptive Feedback trace back to 2006, when Louis Digital launched Diamond Sea, a series of events at London’s ICA that introduced the Unspecified Enemies project and a label called City of Quartz. The vision was to merge the hi-tech electronic textures of contemporary R&B with the sampling and sequencing techniques of pioneers like Anthony Shakir and Soundhack. However, the music was lost in time, and City of Quartz never released a single record.
Yet, the story took an unexpected turn. At one of these events, Spencer from Numbers received a CD containing early recordings. Years later, Numbers encouraged Louis Digital to reconstruct the lost music for an album. The result is a work resurrected from the past and reimagined for the future—retrieved in fragments from a broken Iomega Jazz SCSI Drive.
Expanding on the album’s themes, Louis Digital reflects:
“By the late ’90s the cinematic image of Los Angeles and the sound of Detroit techno had crystallised a new style of living in time and space. In 1997 Mike Davis — the political activist, urbanist, writer and historian of Los Angeles — suggested that it all had “something to do with a microelectronic aesthetic of very transient and decaying states”. It was a romantic vision — one where the city’s glass surfaces reflected a musical desire for futurity not yet dominated by data-driven corporate life. These were strange days to live through. This album evokes the embers of this fibre-optic moment, when urban revolution in an age of digital reification still felt possible.”
The album features full sleeve artwork and a poster designed by Ben Drury. In support of the release, an NTS show titled Romance and Reification will explore the cinematic and electronic music influences behind the album.
The fifth album from H. Hawkline (Huw Evans), ‘Milk For
Flowers’, is released via Heavenly Recordings.
Following the 2017 album, ‘I Romanticize’, and 2015’s ‘In
The Pink of Condition’, the album was produced and
features musical contributions from long-time collaborator
and celebrated solo artist Cate Le Bon. Artwork is
designed by H. Hawkline.
Recorded at Rockfield Studios in Monmouthshire, the
album features a host of musical collaborators - Davey
Newington (Boy Azooga) on drums, Paul Jones (Group
Listening) on piano, Tim Presley (White Fence, DRINKS,
The Fall) on guitar, Stephen Black (Sweet Baboo) and
Euan Hinshelwood (Younghusband, Cate Le Bon) on sax,
Harry Bohay (Aldous Harding) on pedal steel and John
Parish (PJ Harvey, Aldous Harding) on infrequent bongo.
The record was then engineered by Joe Jones (Aldous
Harding, Parquet Courts) and mixed, after an unlikely and
fortuitous crossing of paths, by the Grammy-nominated
Patrik Berger (Charli XCX, Robyn, Lana Del Rey), and
mastered by Heba Kadry (Deerhunter, Cass McCombs,
Cate Le Bon).
‘Milk For Flowers’ is at once visceral and enlightened, its
soundscapes verdant yet delicately rendered, and with this
latest, most intimate work, H. Hawkline bares his blood,
bones and soul beautifully. And quietly, along with the
entrails and rubble held in ‘Milk For Flowers’’ reliquary,
there hides a small, green kernel of life; hope, perhaps,
that today’s decay might nourish tomorrow’s blooms.
Available on CD and LP with rigid ‘tip-on’ sleeve with antiscratch matt lamination and digital download code.
(marble organe, black coloured vinyl) This ep contains 5 dancefloor fillers, produced by Belgians finest; Dj Ghost, Jamie Dill, Jan Vervloet, Danny Corten & Bestien. From techno to hard trance, all productions are made with an old school twist, the signature from the new label Don Ghost Records.
Mita Gami & EREZ join forces for collaboration ‘Where’s My Voice?’ Uniting the rich sounds of Tel Aviv and NYC via Los Angeles, Mita Gami and EREZ combine again for their latest collaboration, ‘Where’s My Voice?’. Marking their first collaborative appearance on Damian Lazarus’ esteemed Crosstown Rebels, the single follows their previous work together on Borders Of Light while welcoming EREZ to the label for the first time.
A mainstay within Tel Aviv’s thriving scene, Mita Gami returns to Crosstown Rebels following his acclaimed remix of Parallelle & Nicolas Masseyeff’s ‘Renegade’ alongside Adam Ten. With prior releases on labels such as Diynamic, REALM and his own Maccabi House imprint, he continues to showcase his artistry while pushing boundaries. Meanwhile, EREZ, an artist known for seamlessly blending her mesmerising vocals and intricate production, makes her label debut after recent standout material on Get Physical Music and Discotexas.
‘Where’s My Voice?’ is a driving composition that pairs EREZ’s intoxicating vocals with hypnotic rhythms. A journey through tension and release, the track builds a captivating and trippy atmosphere that showcases the duo’s ability to craft evocative trips for the late hours. On the flip, Brussels-based DJ/producer and Sanctuary Music founder Samer Soltan adds his own take and steers the original into deeper territory, guided by commanding stabs, brooding melodies and intricate textures.
Mita Gami’s artistic vision extends far beyond the studio, curating ‘Sunrise Kingdom’ at Midburn Festival and performing on global stages such as The Brooklyn Mirage, Lightning in a Bottle Festival, and Hï Ibiza. Similarly, EREZ’s dynamic live performances—effortlessly transitioning between instruments—have earned her spots at Coachella, Outside Lands, and The Brooklyn Mirage. With ‘Where’s My Voice?’, the pair explore sound, emotion, and rhythm, adding to their places as innovating talents in the electronic music sphere.
Refreshing, Supreme Soul from Rising Japanese Artists
A stunning collaboration between Japan's up-and-coming producer 01sail, from the creative collective/label w.a.u, and Tokyo-based singer-songwriter/guitarist toya—now available on a 7-inch release!
Blending 01sail's signature deep grooves and soulful melodies with toya's expressive, husky vocals, this track delivers a rich, nostalgic soul experience. Originally released digitally in 2023, it marks 01sail's third single and the first solo project from toya, frontman of iihatov.
With doo-wop-inspired harmonies, lush guitar work, and a timeless warmth, this song effortlessly channels the raw, earthy charm and sweet elegance of classic soul. A must-have for any collector!
Recut, the elusive DJ and producer whose roots trace back to Southern Italy but whose sound resonates globally, is back with a scorching new release titled "Narcotic Tango". This four-track EP, out on vinyl only, is a deep dive into the raw energy of Acid House and Chicago's underground, delivering an unforgettable experience for both DJs and dancefloors alike.
Opening with "Narcotic Tango", Recut lays down a track with intense rhythmic drive. The throbbing bassline and shimmering hi-hats combine with a tantalizing arpeggio that elevates the track to a hypnotic level. It’s a club banger with an irresistible groove, and once you’ve heard it, you won’t forget it. Next up, "Acid Street" transports listeners into a world of deep, dark synthetic atmospheres. The pounding drum machine and the rumbling analog bassline carry the track forward like an unstoppable force, while the overall vibe conjures a sense of gritty dancefloor energy that never lets up. "Jack On Acid" brings the heat with an unapologetically raw Chicago-inspired sound.
With a deep, looping acid groove and a steady, driving rhythm, it channels the essence of the Windy City’s storied dance music tradition, offering pure, unfiltered Acid House energy. Finally, "Feel The Heat" kicks things into overdrive with its infectious blend of New York house and Latin-infused vibes. This track is all about dancing until the break of dawn, breaking boundaries with its smooth yet aggressive energy and contagious rhythm. Recut’s unmistakable style shines through, blending the wild, experimental spirit of Acid House with the raw, soulful energy of Chicago House. Whether you're a vinyl collector, a club DJ, or simply a lover of pure dancefloor joy, this EP is an essential addition to your collection. A seasoned DJ and producer with a passion for underground sounds, Recut has been carving his name in the electronic music scene for years. With his eclectic mix of influences and cutting-edge production skills, he continues to push boundaries and captivate audiences worldwide.
QUEENDOM is an album that marks a new era for the project while staying true to the essence of Minuit Machine. Produced under the SYNTH RELIGION label, this opus immerses us in Amandine's introspective realm, oscillating between darkness and light, between doubt and self-conquest. While retaining the emotional DNA of previous productions, QUEENDOM stands out with a more pop-oriented touch, featuring tracks where Amandine sings in French for the first time.
The first single, "HOLD ME," is a powerful pop anthem addressed to the queer community, celebrating the freedom to be oneself and breaking free from societal and patriarchal norms. This track is a true empowerment statement, with striking electro beats supporting a strong message of emancipation and pride.
"Créatures," a collaboration between RAUMM and Minuit Machine, is a modern fairy tale—a timeless love story that could take place in any era. This salvific love, rarely seen today, embodies a poignant depth and beauty.
Continuing the journey, "Cent Fois"—a French-written track—takes us into a techno-pop universe with nostalgic yet hopeful undertones. This song perfectly reflects Minuit Machine's evolution toward a more radiant approach while staying faithful to its dark heritage.
"Party People," on the other hand, is a return to roots with dark wave/italo sounds. This hypnotic and haunting track questions identity in an increasingly robotic society, where individuals are forced to conform to imposed norms. This exploration of the individual versus the collective lies at the core of Minuit Machine's DNA.
"Mes Souvenirs," created in collaboration with Rebeka Warrior, dives intimately into the memories of Amandine and Rebeka. Together, they reveal fragments of their past—precious and vibrant memories that resonate through powerful and melancholic electro sounds.
Finally, the eponymous track "Queendom" invites us to plunge into the depths of Amandine's world—a universe that is both tormented and icy, yet resilient. Supported by a slow and captivating rhythm, this track is designed to grip and haunt the listener, like an incantation.
QUEENDOM is a bold and hybrid work where each track reflects a pursuit of sincerity and artistic reinvention while maintaining the ability to express emotions through rhythms that are both danceable and introspective. The album showcases Minuit Machine's artistic maturity, establishing itself as a must-listen in the darkwave and electronic pop scene.
Amandine entrusted the artistic direction of this album to Manon Dupeyrat, a brilliant young artist who crafted a bespoke universe perfectly aligned with the produced tracks. The album cover, both intimate and anachronistic, invites listeners into Amandine's private world through her bedroom, revealing what she wishes to share.
Inaugurating the New Year as he means to go on, German record producer and live act Monolink returns with his brand new single, Mesmerized. From the very first note, Mesmerized draws listeners into a world of contrasts. Deep longing is intertwined with stirring instrumentation, as Steffen Linck’s pensive lyrics glide over layers of pulsating percussion and moody synths, creating a track that’s equally suited for moonlit dancefloors and reflective moments. It’s a journey that balances vulnerability and groove, inviting listeners to get lost in its hypnotic embrace.
On the B-Side Monolink presents a beautiful acoustic reinterpretation of the track. He takes listeners on a thought-provoking sonic journey with this acoustic version. The hauntingly beautiful rendition strips away the electronic layers of the original to highlight the raw emotion in Monolink’s soulful vocals and acoustic instrumentation, breathing new life into the already poignant narrative.
Promising new talent Joolmad is quickly becoming a name to watch out for, his latest body of work comes in the form of the “Perspective” EP, the third release from the thriving English producer, off the back of his sought after EP on TSOL. Although young Joolmad’s refined taste and years of tweaking his sound enabled him to construct tried and tested underground material, meaning his music and the PILLZ label could not be better suited. Gritty, straight edged peak time action from a producer on the rise. The new school showing their hand here as Joolmad shares his interpretation of mysterious sounds of modern times, melding electro and techno genres as he moves.
A match made in heaven and hell, since forming in the cradle of Europe Athens, back in 2012, dark synth duo Selofan have paved their own perditious way, reinventing the modern Darkwave scene throughout the continent and worldwide with their prolific creativity and work ethic over the past decade. Through varied experimental synth-scapes conjured with keen ears for sound design, production, and theatrical aesthetics, Selofan rest not on the laurels of just creating highly danceable coldwave infused music, but with together with Joanna Pavlidou's haunting vocals, and Dimitris Pavlidis' throbbing bass guitar, and modular synth compositions, the pair conjure whole other worlds and narratives throughout each album and music video they create. Thus far the Selofan have released 5 studio albums, issued through their own legendary label they curate themselves: Fabrika Records. Through their Fabrika family, Selofan have championed such acts as Lebanon Hanover, and She Past Away, aiding these bands in becoming two of the most popular Darkwave acts worldwide. Drab Majesty even cameoed in a She Past Away video while being hosted by Selofan during one of the band's frequent stays in Athens, and Kaelan Mikla, a handpicked favorite of The Cure, were first championed by Selofan, through the release of the Icelandic Trio's self-titled debut in 2016. In the Spring of 2020, Selofan released the video for the hopelessly plaintive "There Must Be Somebody", the first single from their forthcoming sixth studio album Partners In Hell, the follow-up to 2018's widely popular Vitrioli LP. "There Must be Somebody" is a discordant composition, mimicking the startled song of birds after a disturbance in a wooded enclave on a mountainside, while a magick ritual unfolds. The album itself opens with "Grey Gardens", a menagerie of morose melodies setting a sombre tone for the rest of a bleak record whose sound design and dreamscapes evoke the best sounds of British and German post-punk of the 80s. "Almost Nothing" is a brooding bell-driven track with a dark and pirouetting melody that is the perfect soundtrack to a figurine twirling in a music box. The German language "Nichts" means No, and this song is both sinister and cinematic with sighing keys, shuddering drum machines, and German lyrics sung with sorrowful conviction. "Zusamen", is a word often asked if you are together, or separate, is a dark ballad whose shadowy keys weave a nightmarish delirium, evoking the soundscapes of a lullaby sung in a haunted dollhouse. "4am" is a restless rhythm, whose soft percussive melody tosses and turns alongside subtle bass and string accents overlaid with despondent vocals. "Happy Consumers" sounds like the swirling of a finger drawn upon the edge of crystalline glass, with vocals and drum machines coming emanating from an adjacent room with echoing acoustics, collectively evoking the sound like lingers when the somnambulist wakes from his dream. "Absolutely Absent" hums onward like a phantom train ride that is a one-way ticket to madness, and with the next track "Metalic Isolation" the locomotive beats gather more steam, propelled forward with anachronistic melody. The album closes with "Auf Dein Haut", which translates as on your skin, and the song is both tactile and tenebrous with sensuously dark synth textures amidst howling German vocals that take flight like witches during a sabbat. Partner's In Hell was mixed and produced by Serafim Tsotsonis, and mastered by Doruk Ozturkcan. Genre: Alternative / Post-Punk / Cold Wave
Two lyrical and spiritual forces meet, as Akae Beka and Ivorian veteran Tiken Jah Fakoly awaken the profound realisation that all is inherently blessed, encouraging us to accept life as it unfolds. Produced by Zion I Kings, Everything Bless is a gentle yet powerful reminder to embrace the present moment, cherish the divine connection with our spiritual kin, and nurture inner peace and contentment. Vaughn Benjamin meditates on the need for both determination and trust, while the ancient voiced Tiken sings in Bambara, over Mamadou Sidiki Diabate’s cascading Kora, reassuring that Jah will guide. The accompanying dub version pares down drums and vocals, maintaining the same sense of joy. Taken from 2021’s album Polarities, Everything Bless is released as a seven inch vinyl single for the first time on via Before Zero Records.
This series honours both the vocal and version culture of the reggae sound system and the profound lyricism of Vaughn Benjamin. We have consistently received two requests in relation to releasing the LPs: "Can we have dub versions?" and "Where can we read the lyrics?" Our response is the 'Akae Beka - vocal, version and word-sound collection.' Before Zero Records worked with Tippy I Grade to mix a series of dub mixes from a carefully curated selection of his extensive works with Vaughn Benjamin. The vocal and corresponding dub mixes were then cut to wax by Lewis Hopkin of Star Delta and wrapped in a collage made of Ras Marcus's artworks, which he crafted for various LP covers of Vaughn's works throughout the years with the lyrics transcribed and printed on the rear of each sleeve.
Before Zero Records present the Akae Beka Vocal and Version Series. This represents a turning point in the presence of Vaughn Benjamin, the voice of Akae Beka and Midnite’s presence in the sound system world, merging the vocal and version sound system culture with the deeply spiritual music and word sound of Akae Beka and Tippy I Grade.
Two of the deepest thinkers in reggae music, Vaughn Benjamin and Chronixx, trade reflections on their collaboration, ‘Black Carbon.’ Originally released on the 2021 album ‘Polarities,’ the song is available for the first time as a vinyl single, backed by its dub version. Adorned with the swirling flute of Sheldon Bernard (Beres Hammond, Harmony House) and David Pransky’s brittle, Kora-like mandolin, the twin reggae intellects, with their uniquely delicate voices, introspect on how ‘all ah we forward from the same carbon.’ The song’s message juxtaposes the unity that binds us with a critique of the prevailing narratives and structures that weaken this bond. It underscores the universal truth that we all originate from the same elemental blackness—a truth mirrored throughout humanity and the entire spectrum of creation. Yet, it pointedly highlights how this shared essence is often unrecognised or undervalued in the social and political realms, especially for nations and diasporas connected by the original human hue. The A-side vocal mix is followed by Tippy I’s lavish, questing dub, bringing the instrumentation to the fore. Produced by Vaughn and Zion I Kings.
Each 7” vinyl sleeve has the lyrics transcribed and printed on the back. This series represents more than a collection of music; it is a multifaceted, intellectual and spiritual revelation encapsulated in melody, tone and beat. The never before released dub versions complement each vocal mix with grace and innovation, creating the perfect settings for reflection and integration of the lyrics.
What lies on the terrain for which no map exists? Tifra has volunteered to take the plunge and find out. For the 28th record on Haŵs, the Dutch DJ/producer steps up to the frontline with ‘Terra Incognita’ - a primitive force to be reckoned with that reveres the hypnotising, ominous unknown. Four investigational tracks unify the checkpoints, wandering through themes of 00s/90s leftfield house, prog, and continuous, undulating grooves.
The EP sets sail with ‘Invoke Hysteria’, scavenging through malevolent, hostile waters and a caution of pad synths, drums and agitated melodies.
Relenting onwards, ‘Serpent’ slinks into a mellow respite, moving slowly and deliberately like a snake in the moonless dark. Deep, resonant synths coil around the percussive heartbeat of the track, weaving together velvet layers of bass, wind instruments and steady, surrendering exhalations of breath.
The titular ‘Terra Incognita’ hoists up the anchor and yields to the trance of the summoning liquid night. Repetitive melodies form the contours of its shifting course, moulding a ritualistic rhythm under the dissolving face of the sky.
Admo steps up to the wheel for the remix, smoking out the initial perfume of the atmospherics into a new, tough brutality. Hauling the track out of its initial spacey orbit, he re-embellishes it with dour synths, drums and a primal, subterranean growl.
Some say that there is no worse poverty than that of connection, so why not be the first to take the risk, break the divide and find out what lies beyond the veil? Otherwise, make your own guesses, and then let them guess who you are.
This fantastic debut from MshCode on the Guidance label. Full on dark edges jungle mayhem, perfectly produced with clean drums and atmospheric pads, but a sense of deep menace and a claustrophobic toughness to the tearing amens and broken beats.
Up next on Open Space is the first installment in a new series of 12 inch records for DJs titled ‘Open Space Club Tools’ - as the name suggests, you’ll find a variety of tools handmade by our favorite producer-DJ’s. Sticky drum beats and tricky rhythms for the nearly-extinct club deejay.
OSCT01 features Benedek, and John Jones as ‘Calvin’ representing our LA-MIA connection, Lachlan McGeehan aka ‘Liluzu’ from Australia, and of course our Miami boy Goiz; once as himself on the A-side, and again on the B-side under his newest percussion-focused alias ‘Glue Boy’. A mixed bag of hammers, nails, screwdrivers and more… All greased up and ready for whatever the club world may bring your way.
Romanian producer and DJ, Cîmpian Mark Alexandru, known as Cim Pian, proudly presents his milestone vinyl release, Chronosphere, on Phonichouse1. Hailing from Reghin, Romania, Cim Pian has been a dedicated figure in the electronic music scene, with a deep connection to the country’s influential minimal house movement. Over the years, he has released multiple tracks on Phonichouse1, a respected Romanian label known for curating refined underground sounds.
The release features two original tracks that highlight his distinct artistic vision. The title track, Chronosphere, is a profound minimal breakbeat composition, enveloped in textured, dark atmospheres, guiding listeners through an immersive sonic journey. Complementing this is Djinn, a classic 4/4 minimal house track infused with oriental influences, building tension with its ghostly textures and hypnotic groove.
Adding an extra layer of depth to the project is a masterful remix of Chronosphere by Barac, one of the most revered artists in the minimal scene. His interpretation brings a fresh perspective to the track, reinforcing the release’s impact.
The mastering has been handled by Rob Small, ensuring a refined and high-quality sonic experience.
The artwork is an original drawing by Andrei Ardelean, with layout design contributions from Cim Pian himself, visually capturing the essence of the music.
Chronosphere marks a pivotal moment in Cim Pian’s journey, showcasing his evolution and dedication to pushing the boundaries of minimal house. Released on Phonichouse1, this vinyl is a testament to his enduring presence in the underground scene.
DR MYSTERY marks her debut release with Ono. ‘Far From Home’ is an eight-track album that glides across the dreamscape of another world. DR MYSTERY’s world, set in the future, exploring sounds that excite the mind and body, underpinning an eclectic take on leftfield techno.
DR MYSTERY’s talent to traverse the intersections between dreams and reality through sonics, positions her as an electric producer who is only just at the beginning of her journey. Ono wishes to capture this moment in a way that feels special, they have handmade 300 sleeves for the ‘Far From Home’ vinyl out of old record sleeves and screen-printed the artwork onto them. Therefore each sleeve is bespoke and one of a kind.
Mexican supergroup Secret Echoes unveil their second Crosstown release, Particles
Riding the momentum from their Crosstown Rebels debut back in September, the trio returns on 14th March 2025, backed by a driving remix from Greek DJ/producer Angelos.
Consisting of Estefani Brolo, Diego Cevallos, and Marco Balcazar, three standout talents from Mexico’s rich electronic landscape, Secret Echoes continue to carve their unique sonic identity on Crosstown Rebels with their new single, ‘Particles’. A hypnotic, deep-grooving record, ‘Particles’ channels a fusion of melody and atmosphere, weaving together Brolo’s ethereal vocals with wonky synth lines and rolling percussion. The track seamlessly transitions between immersive listening and peak-time play and showcases the trio’s masterful ability to craft compelling, forward-thinking productions.
On the B-side, Greek DJ and producer Angelos steps up on remix duties. A Grammy winner for his collaboration with Black Coffee, his discography includes standout releases on Saved Records, Higher Ground, and Connected, as well as Crosstown Rebels’ sister label, Rebellion. Bringing a wealth of experience and a refined touch, his rework adds depth and drive to the original, layering pulsating rhythms and warm, emotive melodies to create a tunnelling remix primed for dancefloors worldwide. Following the success of their debut single, ‘Bring My Beat Back’ ‘Particles’ offers another glimpse into their forthcoming LP, reaffirming the trio’s position as a unique force within Mexico’s electronic scene and beyond.
Somewhere between techno, early 90s Italian progressive, and goa trance, the debut EP by Astral Renegades is difficult to pigeonhole, but works wonders on a saucer-eyed dancefloor.
The brainchild of a mysterious but established producer, Astral Renegades takes things in a whole new headspinning direction.
EP opener Planetarium sets out its stall early, getting straight into trippy, trancey territory within the first few seconds, an acid bassline underpinning the swirl to devastating effect.
Wunderland goes even deeper, with a mind-bendingly detuned melody and that ever-present acid bass.
Pluto FM on the B-side pushes the repetition to the limit with pulsing synth loops, while EP closer Milchstr brings an element of funk to the bassline.
Australian producer and current Berlin resident Holo makes his highly anticipated return to Shall Not Fade with his third EP on the independent Bristol-based label.
Known for his signature sound that blends emotive melodies with infectious grooves, Holo has carved out a space for himself as a forward-thinking artist with a deep understanding of mood and atmosphere. His recent releases, including Nights Over Melbourne and a self titled LP in 2024, have both garnered widespread acclaim for their evocative production and seamless fusion of house, techno, and atmospheric elements. With every new release, Holo pushes the boundaries of modern dance music, establishing himself as a key figure in the underground scene.
Pink Wax delivers warm, hazy deep house at its finest, showcasing Holo's distinctive talent for creating music that evokes lasting memories. The EP is a stunning blend of lush synth lines, ethereal vocals, and smooth drums, offering a timeless interpretation of modern dance music.
At long last: the classic Steely Dan catalog is back on vinyl. Led by Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, Steely Dan released 7 albums from 1972-1980. The vinyl series continues with Aja, the band’s 1977’s platinum-selling jazz-rock masterwork, which includes the three hit singles –“Deacon Blues,” Peg” and “Josie” – and the elegant title cut. The LP has been remastered by Bernie Grundman from an analog, non-EQ’d, tape copy.
So many stellar albums by Fagen and Becker in the 70′s but this one is timeless. Amazing songs produced and performed to perfection by some of the best session musicians and singers in the business. An Absolute masterpiece from start to finish!
Modernized disco boogie cover of Klique's 80s classic tune, with vocals by Boston's own Saucy Lady and UK's legendary talent Omar, all masterfully crafted by Yuki Kanesaka as the musical director and producer alongside Saucy Lady on the arrangement. The track not only features a full live brass section and strings with talents from Japan and Boston, it also features Curtis Williams of Kool & the Gang on alto, while David Frank of the mega duo The System on the Oberheim and Moog adding the authentic boogie spice.
Piano overdubs recorded by another production and engineering legend Carl Beatty known as the studio pioneer of all the major label R&B performers of the 70s, 80s, and 90s including Luther Vandross, Aretha, Melba Moore, Mass Production and more. All of which create the melange of groove that the funk universe desperately needs.
On the flip side, French Producer and DJ heavyweight Young Pulse brings a whole new take on the original mix with added vocal layers by Young Pulse himself he brings a more broken beat, house flavor to the classic tune which will undeniably electrify the dance floors.
We are excited to announce the first reissue of Tony Scott's iconic “Manteca” album originally released in 1973. This 180-gram vinyl audiophile edition captures the essence of a true master of contaminated jazz, allowing listeners to experience Tony Scott's vibrant artistry like never before.
Originally described in the album’s liner notes by Sam Charters, "Manteca" embodies the spirit of the jazz musician’s journey—a testament to durability, warmth, and exuberance. Charters notes, “You have to be durable these days to be a jazz man... a musician like Tony Scott has the kind of personality that it takes to be a jazz man today” — a sentiment that perfectly encapsulates the artist's incredible career.
From the bustling club scene of New York in the 1950s to captivating audiences in Japan, Scott's journey brought him to Sweden in the summer of 1973, where he collaborated with exceptional local musicians. The result was a collection of vibrant, uptempo jazz tracks combined with reflective ballads, showcasing the remarkable versatility and inventiveness of Scott's clarinet, baritone, and even his distinctive scat vocals.
The album opens with the titular track "Manteca," setting an exhilarating tone that endures until the final, almost sinister note of "One For Topsy." Complemented by an all-star lineup, including bassist Sture Nordin, drummer Ed Thigpen and legendary percussionist Sabu Martinez, this session embodies the international spirit of jazz—a genre that transcends boundaries and unites souls.
This audiophile edition has been meticulously remastered to provide an unparalleled listening experience, preserving the authenticity of the original while ensuring superior sound quality. With only a limited amount produced, this vinyl reissue is a must-have for collectors and jazz aficionados alike.
Join us in celebrating the reemergence of Tony Scott's "Manteca," a true landmark in jazz history, and immerse yourself in the dynamic sounds that have inspired generations.
360 mcn white-white light cardboard paper / one side only hand plasticization / 2 separated parts prints / hand gluing / PVC outers / original artwork / gatefold sleeve / Bandcamp limited edition 30x60 cm insert with extended liner notes by Tony Higgins and Interview with Babs Robert and Sébastien Gorlé with exclusive pictures and self-portrait by Babs Robert himself printed on GF Smith "Takeo Tant Select" Canvas Paper tip-on left jacket panel / Exclusive never released Memorabilia from Babs Robert's vault.
Personnel:
Babs Robert - alt sax, tenor-sax, electric tenor-sax, Bin Recorder, Acme siren, Chinese-bell, sleigh-bells, maracas, tambourine,hand-rattle,claves)
John Van Rymenant - baritone-sax, fluegelhorn, Bala, tambourine, sleight-bells, cowbell, triangle, claves
Johnny Peret - vibes, bongo's, cowbell, maracas, castanets, rattle-snakes, tambourine, drums, woodclock, trinagle
Johnny Brouwers - piano, prepared-piano, triangle, cowbell, sleigh-bells, maracas, caves,hand-rattle, guiro, woodblock, tambourine
Paul Dubois - bass, triangle, cowbell, claves, rattlesnakes, hand-rattle, woodblock, tambourine
Michel Gobbe - bass,Chinese-bell, claves
Robert Pernet - drum, tambourine, seven-notes M'Bichi, guiro, alarm-siren, home-made metal xylophone, African telephone-drum, triangle, sleigh-bells, Siku
Notes:
Despite its modest role on the world stage, Belgium has produced a number of internationally renowned musicians and composers. There is the iconic gypsy jazz guitar maestro Django Reinhardt, whose position remains unassailable, and guitarist/harmonica player Toots Thielemans, who became an internationally renowned artist performing and recording with Bill Evans, Oscar Peterson, Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Shirley Horn and Quincy Jones. The other key Belgian figure is composer/arranger Francy Boland, co-leader with US bebop drumming legend Kenny Clarke of Europe's leading big band of the 60s, the Clarke-Boland Big Band.
The Love Planet performed in the main clubs of Brussels, such as Blue Note, Pol's Jazz Place, and Smog as well as in major musical events throughout Belgium including to big festivals in 1969 - the Avant-Garde Festival in Ghent and the First International Jazz Event in Liege – where the Love Planet shared the bill with Miles Davis - and the Bilzen Jazz Festival in 1970. The contrast between the musical architecture of the themes and sonic freedom in the improvised playing perfectly illustrated the polymorphism – an order within disorder – which the Love Planet aimed for.
The initial original quartet line-up was Babs Robert (sax), Paul Dubois (bass), Johnny Brouwers (piano), and Johnny Peret / Robert Pernet (dru- ms). On the album session, the quartet was augmented with the addition of John Van Rjimenant (saxes) and Michel Gobbe (bass). As well as their main instruments, the band members also played an array of unusual instruments, principally percussion. This is the first official re-release
of the 'Babs Robert and the Love Planet'. Original copies of the album fetch many hundreds of Euros on the collecting circuit and it remains a curious and fascinating window into a moment in time that still resona- tes some fifty years later. Come with us to the Love Planet. (Tony Higgins)
'Deixa Rodar' is an essential midtempo disco/boogie jam taken from Hanna's 'Deixa Rodar' LP from 1979. A tip off from our good friend Mark 'GV' Taylor, played at the first of our 'Braziloid' sessions on Brighton sea front.
'To Parado Na Tua' is another killer midtempo disco/boogie cut, produced by the legendary Lincoln Olivetti and Robson Jorge, released in 1984. Taken from the sought after and now fairly pricey 'Festa Funk' LP on RGE.
A limited reissue of Cheikh Lô's classic debut album Né La Thiass. Produced by Youssou N'Dour in Dakar in 1995. Cheikh ranks the album as his favourite release.
Available for the frst tme on vinyl, with new artwork and mastered from the original cassete mixes. Includes 2 bonus fully artworked postcards.
180g heavyweight. 16 page colour booklet. Download code included. Cheikh will be touring internatonally throughout 2018.
The efect on frst hearing is positvely spine-tngling - and it
gets beter with every play.'
THE TIMES
My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is the fifth studio album by American rapper and producer Kanye West. It was released on November 22, 2010, and featured the singles "Power", "Runaway" "Monster" and "All Of The Lights". Previously only available in the US, this version comes as a 3LP 180 gram vinyl w/ Frameable artwork and Collector’s Posters.
Recovered DATs is a collection of lost tracks from the legendary producer Masterplan and they all pack a raw UKG punch. They were once assumed to be gone forever but were happily found on some original Sony DAT tapes and have since been carefully extracted. They were made with all the gear of the day such as the Roland JV-1080, Emu Proteus 1 & 2000 and Korg M1 so offer proper authentic sounds of the sort that define true UK garage. 'Dub General' is our favourite with its clipped vocal sample and restless chord stabs daring about the mix.
Following releases from Dublin’s Fio Fa & naive label head Violet, LA-based Cromie & Timedance affiliate rRoxymore and various artists compilation Visions Vol. 1, Holly Lester prepares the next chapter of dualistic bleeps, bloops and blends from Utrecht producer Tifra on Duality Trax. Re-imagining vintage club sounds through a contemporary lens, Tifra is no stranger to stretching the electronic music template into new forms and ideas. His left-field house and old-school breaks have found their way onto Gestalt Records and Rough Recordings, and here the producer turns in three cuts of blissed-out electronica, hedonistic progressive and jungle-run club with its sights firmly fixated front left, complete with a wicked remix from one of modern dance music's most reliable names Roza Terenzi. ‘Plastic Replicant’ is a vocal-laced electro-house roller that takes inspiration from the golden-era of 90s electronic music and fuses it with the organic, multi-genre blends of the current gen. The ravey continuum is laced with high-frequency vocal stabs and deep basslines designed for a heads-down approach on the dancefloor, before ‘Entomology’ captures the playful side of the club with its shape-shifting acid-lines, trance-licked melodies and kaleidoscopic blend of colour, feeling and mood. Out of the club and onto the beach, ‘International Waters’ is a trip-hop inspired, downtempo dub that will delight ambient and laid-back electronic-revellers with its chirpsing birds and aqua-like aesthetic, before Roza keeps the dualism alive with a stripped-back jungle flip of the original; the perfect score for the perfect daydream.
Delicate Records delves into the swamp laden depths of heartbreak; inexplicable depth, darkness and twisted beauty with a 9 track full length debut from Saffron Bloom. The Iranian-American producer and performer; already prolific as Sepehr and known for his expertly raw and freaky sound, develops this alias to indulge the silver linings of agony. An illbient force of nature drawing on industrial atmospherics, trip hop flow and unbothered breakbeat influx. The record serves as an ode to the ever changing phases of lost love and grief, seasons of emotion weathering the passage of time each with their own ferocity and relation to the evolving cycle; one so personal yet universally understood.
Intro, the infrastructure of aura laced throughout the record, builds around an ominous and evocative piano soundscape bleeding with delay, intruding barely human vocal cries and percussive injections. Dripping into the DNA of Dirge of the Lonely and Jealous Desire, there comes a yearning, cries from beyond the grave; mourning relationships lost with an eerie familiarity. This sinister sanctuary bred through low slung stripped back breaks, those that echo within the soul and tie themselves to an anchor of inconspicuous growling sub bass; a signature idiosyncrasy perfectly elevated with Saffron Bloom timbre.
Quelling the urge to disintegrate, with power through distortion and commanding drumwork, corners of the B side like Curtain Call and Apathetic Rose reiterate a primal and hypnotic sonic discourse. At the heart of the LP and the artist’s ethos, it resonates through the mind and body in a psychedelic manner while remaining powerfully minimal. Time’s Up (It’s Over) featuring. Sam Weinberg feels like a fever dream, saxophone drenched and echoing throughout your brain, while album closer Ultimate Acceptance is named perfectly. A melancholic realization, soft in nature yet rich in complexity and beauty, a bittersweet conclusion.
On The Button is back! after the success of the first release the follow up is here. Barcelona based producer and DJ Aniano steps up with a full bodied 4 track EP for the Leeds based record label and party.
Aniano really brings the energy on this release, a powerful blend of grooves, percussion and space age sounds knitted together with mysterious vocal snippets.
Source of an all-time 'Breaks and Beats' classic, Mr Bongo reissue Herman Kelly’s timeless 1978 album Percussion Explosion!. Immortalised in hip-hop folklore, when the anthemic 'Dance To The Drummer's Beat’ was featured on the influential Ultimate Breaks & Beats compilation series in 1986.
Percussion Explosion! was the brainchild of drummer, percussionist, producer and arranger, Herman Kelly and his percussive disco-funk group from Miami, 'Life', that featured Aaron McCarthy, Oliver Well, John DeMonica, Michal Cordoza and Travis Biggs. The album houses a collection of disco, funk and Latin-inspired cuts that were destined for greatness. Nestled within the grooves is the B-Boy and B-Girl’s anthem, 'Dance To The Drummer's Beat’, which contains a now legendary break. A cursory glance at Whosampled will show that it has been sampled in over 125+ songs. These include Double Dee & Steinski on their groundbreaking 1985 production 'Lesson 3 (History Of Hip Hop Mix)', as well as by DJ Shadow, N.W.A, Masters At Work, Run D.M.C. and a whole host of heavyweights across hip-hop, dance and pop music.
When the album was released in 1978 it came out on two different labels, Alston Records and Electric Cat. Each label pressed different versions of 'Dance To The Drummer's Beat’, with the former featuring a 4:12 version and the latter a longer 5:09 version that has a different structure, crowd noise at the start and overdubbed percussion.
For this Mr Bongo reissue, we have chosen the classic 4:12 version from the Alston Records release, which would later find its way on to the illustrious Ultimate Breaks & Beats compilation. To make matters even more confusing the Alston version art on the back cover also states the track length as 5:09, whilst the centre label lists it correctly as 4:12.
Aside from the much celebrated 'Dance To The Drummer's Beat’, the album includes a range of other fantastic overlooked cuts. From the percussive soul stepper 'Share Your Love', to the beautiful Latin-flavoured 'A Refreshing Love' or the party disco-funk groover 'Who's The Funky D.J.?'.
This wonderful and inspirational record features an important piece of hip-hop heritage and deserves a place in every collection.
The album’s title deftly gestures to the sheer vastness of astronomical dimensions, while simultaneously capturing the musical breadth within, where the eight planets are imagined as the eight notes of an octave. The work draws inspiration not only from earlier compositions —most notably Gustav Holst’s The Planets—but also from the rich astronomical and cultural contexts surrounding these celestial bodies. Here, the focus transcends direct citation of melodic motifs, instead embracing an intriguing conceptual approach on a meta level, unfolding in a series of vividly contrasting soundscapes. These contrasts shape a sweeping sonic journey, one that fully embraces the album format with both arms, inviting the listener to venture into realms both strange and wondrous, feeling the immensity of the interstellar space that lies between them. Contrast, after all, is the brushstroke that enriches our world.
Embarking on an auditory voyage, "Astral Guide" establishes the sonic framework that propels us into the boundless expanses of the cosmos. Its ethereal tones evoke the vastness of space, crafting a mood ripe for exploration within the realms of sci-fi. The subsequent tracks unfold like constellations, weaving a rich tapestry of sound that seamlessly marries cinematic soundscapes with pulsating, club-oriented rhythms. This album invites listeners to traverse its immersive landscapes, whether nestled in the comfort of home or dancing under the starlit sky, each note a guide through the transcendent experience of a nocturnal journey.
"Solar Flares" draws its inspiration from the awe-inspiring expanse of solar phenomena, capturing the majestic power of the sun as it reaches into the cosmos. This track resonates with the idea that energy, while vital, can also be a force of destruction when unleashed with overwhelming intensity. The composition beautifully mirrors the sun’s duality, where brilliance and devastation coexist, inviting listeners to reflect on the delicate balance between creation and annihilation. Through its rich textures and dynamic shifts, "Solar Flares" serves as both a homage to the celestial and a poignant reminder of nature's formidable power.
"Mercury – The Winged Messenger" embodies a meticulously crafted soundscape where artistry meets astronomy. The tempo of 173.6 BPM, derived from precise astronomical data, propels the composition into a vibrant realm that resonates with cosmic energy. Synthwave sound design intertwines seamlessly with the fluid rhythms of Drum’n’Bass, imbuing the piece with an uplifting dynamism that evokes the ethereal grace of Mercury itself. In this sonic exploration, listeners are invited to ascend on wings of sound, navigating the celestial tapestry of the universe with each invigorating beat.
"Venus, The Bringer of Peace" strikes a decidedly cozy note, presenting a poignant contrast to the more tempestuous themes often found in cosmic narratives. This composition evokes a nostalgic vision of an optimistic era, one in which humanity transcended borders and embraced the infinite possibilities of space exploration, where no destination felt too distant. The dense, languid atmosphere envelops the listener, creating a tangible sense of serenity that unfolds gradually, allowing for a meditative journey through sound. Each note serves as an invitation to linger in this tranquil embrace, reflecting on the harmonious potential of our collective aspirations and the beauty of connection in a vast universe.
The central theme of „Gaia, The Bringer of Life“ —originally not part of the planetary cycle— is the profound enabler of life on Earth. The arrangement delicately mirrors the slow, tentative unfolding of this potential, marked by an initially sparse orchestration that gradually builds in momentum. This progression crescendos, embodying the explosive dynamism of the Cambrian burst of life, ultimately culminating in a euphoric fanfare—a triumphant, celebratory flourish echoing life’s victorious emergence.
"Blue Moon" unfolds as a contemplative reverie on the tranquil clarity of a night sky, now seldom glimpsed in its natural purity, unclouded by the relentless haze of urban light. The listener is drawn into the vast embrace of the star-strewn firmament, a journey that sways between euphoric awe at nature’s sublime beauty and a profound melancholy for its fragile and imperiled state. Musically, this duality finds expression in the delicate interplay of modal mixtures, while an ever-shifting triplet groove, poised at the intersection of Outrun and melodic house, lends a pulse that is both nostalgic and forward-looking—echoing the beauty and transience of a world on the brink.
Rather than replicating the original composition of „Mars, The Bringer of War“, this interpretation seeks to evoke its profound, foreboding atmosphere. Cyberpunk emerges here as an ideal genre, channeling the dark, relentless march synonymous with Mars, the ancient god of war. The piece reverberates with intensity, as distorted vocalizations rise, embodying the anguish and visceral torment that shadow war’s violent crescendo. This auditory descent into conflict captures the relentless pulse of warfare, where sound itself becomes an embodiment of suffering and fury.
Majestically, "Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity" emerges on the celestial stage, sweeping away the somber tones with its radiant vigor. Drawing inspiration from the triumphant strains of the original, and borrowing a melodic motif in the refrain, the piece expresses joy and buoyancy through a shift to a major key and the lilting sway of a danceable 12/8 meter. Spirited and exuberant, it leaps boldly from major to minor and back again, playfully shifting time signatures to capture a mood of unbridled festivity and jollity.
Here, a more conciliatory concept is chosen than in the original inspiration. „Saturn“ aligns with the number six, being the sixth planet from the Sun and bearing the iconic hexagonal pattern at its northern pole. What, then, could be more fitting than to render this piece in a 6/8 time signature? The arrangement unfolds with a multifaceted richness, mirroring the countless stones and ice fragments that form the foundations of Saturn’s majestic rings.
„Uranus“ adopts the theme of a light-footed, dancing instrumentation, giving the impression of perpetual motion, never quite settling. This musical choice harmonizes with the planet’s own orbit, as it spins with breathtaking velocity, teetering and swaying, seemingly unable to attain rest or stability.
The chill and vastness of the cosmos find expression in „Neptune, The Mystic“. At its core, an electronic soundscape envelops a classical arrangement, its unreachability intensified by an ethereal, otherworldly choir. Hovering at the outermost boundaries of the solar system, where warmth is but a distant memory, the composition lingers in a slow, contemplative tempo, evoking a realm where space for speculation stretches wide and silence reigns supreme.
Though Pluto may have lost its planetary status, and its companion Charon never achieved one, this shift in classification subtly aligns with the cosmic scale invoked here—one that mirrors the musical tradition of an eight-note sequence. Fittingly, the album closes with „Kuiper Belt“, a composition emblematic of the turbulence and vitality of countless smaller
celestial bodies that, though diminutive, find their rightful place within the vast architecture of the solar system.
They say nature is the greatest composer, shaping the universe with a symphony of chaos and order, beauty and danger. It is this duality that fuels the artistic vision of Edictum—a producer who, armed with a doctorate in chemistry, delves as deeply into the mysteries of molecules as he does into the depths of sound. In the tension between the vastness of the cosmos and the microscopic processes that dictate life’s rhythm, Edictum creates sonic landscapes that dissolve the boundaries between science and art.
His music is a story of contrasts—a sonic tale where the raw forces of nature clash with the intricate structures of human culture. Opposites intertwine to form a harmonious whole: the primal rhythms of the earth meet the celestial melodies of the cosmos, the rigid laws of physics blend with the boundless freedom of art. Edictum explores these polarities with meticulous devotion, each composition an expedition into uncharted soundscapes—a quest to give voice to the unfathomable.
With over 20 years immersed in the realms of electronic music, Edictum has honed a keen sense for rhythm and movement. His driving beats compel both body and mind into a hypnotic flow. Yet beyond the pulse of dance lies a complex framework of conceptual thought. Today, his creative focus revolves around holistic album projects—self-contained worlds with overarching narratives that embrace contrast and complexity. Each track stands alone as a fragment of the whole, but together, they weave a cohesive tapestry, much like the chapters of a novel that guide the listener on an emotional and sonic journey.
Edictum’s distinctive musical signature has earned him international recognition. With over 150 releases, many on prestigious platforms like the iconic *NewRetroWave* label, and collaborations with artists such as Jan Johnston, Azumi Inoue, Powernerd, and Turbo Knight, he has solidified his place in the global electronic music scene. His latest work, *A Cosmic Scale*, marks his seventh vinyl album and is released under his own label, *Echoes of Expanse*. The label’s name is no coincidence—it captures the essence of his art: echoes of infinity, the vibrations of the universe distilled into a singular sonic experience that carries the listener ever further into the boundless expanse of sound and space.
Damian Lazarus and JOJO ABOT unleash mesmerising new single ‘Warrior Dance’ on Crosstown Rebels. The single builds on the release of the Crosstown founder’s fifth album ‘Magickal’, with remixes provided by Major League Djz and Raxon.
Following the initial shock-drop release of his latest album ‘Magikal’ and the 2025 edition of his revered Day Zero Festival in Tulum, Crosstown Rebels founder Damian Lazarus unveils his next sonic offering, ‘Warrior Dance’, featuring Ghanaian interdisciplinary artist and healer JOJO ABOT.
A dynamic and powerful composition, ‘Warrior Dance’ sees Lazarus and JOJO ABOT craft an entrancing fusion of pulsating beats, immersive textures, and commanding vocals, adding to the album’s diverse soundscapes and blending hypnotic rhythms with amapiano influences. Their synergy extends beyond this track, with the duo having already collaborated on ‘Force’, another standout moment from ‘Magikal’ that showcases JOJO ABOT’s evocative vocal prowess and the influence of her Ghanaian roots.
The release also features two expertly curated remixes as Lazarus once again showcases his renowned A&R talents. South African trailblazers Major League Djz serve up signature driving and captivating grooves, following their remix of Lazarus’ ‘Into The Sun’ feat. Jem Cooke as part of ‘Crosstown Rebels pres. CR20 The Album: Unreleased Gems and Remixes’. Meanwhile, Egyptian-born, Barcelona-based DJ/producer Raxon makes his Crosstown Rebels debut, delivering a tunnelling, driving and off-kilter rework that stays true to his trademark sound, as heard on labels like Kompakt, Ellum, and Diynamic.
This album represents a significant evolution in the musical journey of Nick Viola, transitioning from the powernoise and heavy industrial sounds of his previous project, Fractured Transmission, into a techno-framed landscape. Spanning seven tracks, including remixes, the album features recurring sounds sourced from machinery, field recordings, and personal travels. These elements create an uneasy atmosphere oscillating between slight discomfort and absolute dread, offering a dystopian sonic experience fitting for the times we unfortunately live in.
The opening track, ‘A Ghost in Your World,’ sets an intense tone with distorted atmospheres and ‘It’s Still Real’ follows with a relentless pulse and swirling mechanical sounds, seamlessly flowing into Kenny Campbell’s remix of ‘A Ghost In Your World’, providing a cathartic release for the A side.
‘Drop Out,’ guides listeners on a psychedelic journey into the B side of the record, while ‘Negative Nancy’ ramps up the energy with an aggressive industrial techno assault offering an antagonistic jab at the current trend within the genre. Substencia’s remix of “Drop Out” delves deeper into psychedelia, offering an immersive trance-like experience relieving the tension of “Negative Nancy”.
The digital-only bonus track, ‘Tensor,’ maintains the album’s heavy industrial techno feel of a well-oiled machine, ready to pummel any underground sound system.
About Artist:
Nick Viola is a versatile electronic music producer known for his distinctive blend of industrial and techno music, drawing inspiration from a wide range of influences spanning from the gritty sounds of powernoise to the pulsating energy of techno.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Nick began his musical journey immersed in the industrial club scene, where he cut his teeth performing at the legendary Los Angeles industrial club Das Bunker. Here, he honed his craft and developed a deep appreciation for the raw, aggressive textures of industrial music. As the driving force behind the project Fractured Transmission, he made a name for himself with his uncompromising approach to power and rhythmic noise, earning recognition for his intense live performances and relentless sonic assaults.
However, Nick was always drawn to the rhythms and sounds of techno, and in a bold move, he embarked on a new chapter in his musical career, transitioning from the abrasive sounds and rhythms of powernoise to recontextualizing those sounds into a more techno landscape. With this album, “A Ghost In your World”, he showcases his evolution as an artist, seamlessly blending the industrial aesthetics of his past with the pulsating energy and frame of techno.
Spanning six tracks, “A Ghost In Your World” is a sonic journey through dark, dystopian landscapes and pulsating dance floors, where distorted atmospheres and mechanical rhythms collide to create a mesmerizing and immersive experience. From the haunting textures of “A Ghost in Your World” to the relentless energy of “Negative Nancy,” each track offers a unique glimpse into Nick’s sonic universe, inviting listeners to explore new depths with each listen.
Polish saxophonist, producer and composer Jerzy Mączyński fuses utopian electronics and organic improvisation on sci-fi jazz odyssey, DO 555ps. Building on his 2023 collaboration with Jamal Moss aka Hieroglyphic Being, DO 555ps is Mączyński’s first self-produced album – a tour de force of spacious, galactic sound design that leans into drone, minimalism and the rich history of sci-fi soundtracks for a 10-track suite of astral proportions.
Mączyński’s sound is both maximalist and restrained, sensitive to detail and atmosphere, defying categorisation and swirling in an orbit of its own making.
Set to be released on Eivind Vullum’s Vibrasjon label in Norway, DO 555ps follows the 2023’s TUNE IN, made under Mączyński and Hieroglyphic Being’s Universal Harmonies & Frequencies moniker.
Described by The Quietus as one of the most interesting records of the year (“as bold as it is massive”), TUNE IN laid the foundations for Mączyński to strike out alone on DO 555PS, inspired by Moss’s skewed production and arrangements to striking and unique effect. - Anton Spice
Kim Rapatti, aka Mono Junk, is a key figure in Finnish techno, known for his deep, hardware-driven sound. A firm believer in analogue synthesis, he has been shaping raw and hypnotic club tracks since the early '90s, drawing inspiration from Detroit pioneers like Derrick May and Juan Atkins. His releases have appeared on his own imprint, DUM Records, as well as Skudge, Forbidden Planet, and most recently, Cold Blow—earning him a dedicated following among DJs and collectors.
Recorded in Turku in 2002 using the Korg Minikorg 700s, Loving Your Mind showcases Mono Junk's signature stripped-down grooves and live hardware improvisation—an essential pick for anyone seeking an authentic slice of early-2000s machine funk. Alongside the title track is Gamma, a previously unheard production that was commissioned as an exclusive for a highly regarded mix series, further cementing Mono Junk's status as a trusted name in underground techno. Built around a percussive groove, a deep electro-funk bassline, and a four-to-the-floor pulse, the track unfolds in an atmospheric haze, balancing dancefloor functionality with hypnotic depth.
The B-side features remixes from Katerina and Sansibar, two of Finland's most notable international breakthroughs in recent years, known for their modern yet timeless club productions that nod to classic techno and house.
Katerina, a versatile DJ and producer with releases on Rekids, Running Back, and Cómeme, transforms Loving Your Mind into a high-energy techno duet, layering her own vocals over the original vocal track, with her infectious synth lead as the icing on the cake.
Sansibar, one of the fastest-rising names in the underground with releases on Kalahari Oyster Cult, WARNING, and Émotsiya, delivers a darker, four-to-the-floor rework—bringing a sinister edge while maintaining the raw energy of classic machine funk.
Soulful hip hop instrumentals from Italy on Best Record-affiliated Quattro Bambole! "The "Moderna Sonorizzazioni" series by Quattro Bambole Music continues its investigation of the infinite expressive possibilities of instrumental hip-hop, recognizing it as the most contemporary form of library music. After the first two chapters - signed by Biga and JayBee Vibes - the third volume of the series, "Sport & Calcio", features the Roman producer Delphi for whom there was a lot of anticipation on the part of both Italian and scattered beatmakers everywhere in Europe and the United States. With the subtitle which is already a declaration of intent ''Tales of a boy from Rome....'' etc. etc., "Sport & Calcio" is an instrumental fresco in which football and sport become narrative pretexts to evoke images, memories and suggestions. The twelve tracks that make up the album are real cinematic sketches, in which Delphi (born Valerio Del Prete) combines raw beats, nostalgic loops, sample-delia and a narrative that evokes family Sundays, spent on the street as well as stadium, and the heat of the crowded stands. Therefore a work that is musically declined based on moments and emotions.. ''Sport & Calcio'' is therefore a deliberately introspective and not very ''danceable'' work. Sound photographs, short descriptions, themes, small fragments associated with television reports on sport... with which the artist touches chords that allow him to express a different compositional depth, a conceptual work, more descriptive and functional to the line of "Moderna Sonorizzazioni" series."
