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YSE Saint Laur'Ant returns with Saudade, an EP that digs deep into groove-rich territories, effortlessly blending genres and inspirations. Side A opens with an intriguing cut that merges gospel flair with ESG-inspired rhythms, driven by raw beats and a bassline that hooks instantly.

Following up is Special, where YSE’s long-time collaborator adds soft, spacey vocals over a supremely laid-back groove, creating a floating, heady vibe. Flipping to Side B, New York Boys offers a curious, spaced-out pulse with a touch of big-city grit, setting up the EP's final track, Gone Fighting. This midtempo closer stands out with an infectious Slavic sample infusion that rounds off Saudade on a note that's both groovy and reflective.

Following that heavyweight debut release, we're thrilled to load up the second Upgrade weapons pack !!

Three cuts from Leeds DJ and label boss Buckley and one from  Pikes and Cafe Del Mar resident S/A/M...

All different in their own right from the bass heavy peak time action of 'I like', to the the more old school vibes of 'Nude Night' on the A Side.
Side two see's a cheeky upgrade with 'Daft Sandwich' and finishes with the heads down breaky affair of 'Real Man' from S/A/M.

After the worldwide success of Toribio's "Bring Dat Jazz" 12", selling over 1K units worldwide - the mainstay NYC producer returns with another record on his own BDA Imprint (in collaboration with A-Trak and Chromeo's label Juliet) for a special 12" with a Crackzat remix.
"Daylight" is a warm, uplifting deep house jam with skippy beats, warm rhodes, bass and percussion. Vocals come from Toribio's sister Sharin
with an uplifting message referencing classic 90s house lyricism.
Originally released digitally in 2024, the raw humility of that song won the hearts of listeners the world over, with nods from Resident Advisor and Spotify's coveted Pollen playlist.

Coming in next on the 12", the always on Crackazat turns up the musicality even further, with cascading pianos and strings that anchor the emotion of "Daylight", with a sly bassline nod to Speed Garage sounds. Another hit from Bristol's masterful jazz-house expert.
Also included on the 12" is Toribio's stripped down, deep-in the groove Alternate Mix.

The Dancefloor Records reissues on Emotional Rescue comes in the form a true House classic. Produced and released by the Chicago legend Andrew Komis, It’s You is an original Deep House bomb and an education to those increasingly misusing the term today.

Essentially a cover / updated version of the all-time early House classic in ESP’s Its You, this 1989 update shows how much the scene was progressing in just 3 years with a tougher, heavier and deeper 12” that was all about rocking club sound systems.

Coming out on Komis’ own (Dancefloor subsidiary) Big Shot Records, this might not of been as big as Dionne’s Come Get My Lovin’, but has long been an ‘in the bag’ record for the likes of Derrick Carter and Solar. Just one listen spread across the time-defining “Mixes” and it’s clear why.

The stepping bass of the New York – London Mix was so indicative of the time. As the latter’s ascent as a clubbing capital took hold, ears were pinned to what was emanating from across the seas, especially the clubs of NYC and ‘Windy City’. Trademark Komis bass and hats ride are all here to allow the breathy vocals space to do their magic.

However it is the Free House Mix that really shows where things were at. Skipping hats, electro-meets-Belgian bass and a dark synth line pull the track down before acid touches take the song to a much deeper place and has long been the favourite version for the discerning DJ.

Ending with what was indicative of the time, the title says it all with the NU Style Mix. A drum heavy work out, taking in elements of successful records of the time, we get Break 4 Love percussion arranged around a NYC influenced Konder’s style quick cut-up editing for a more 'freestyle' mix to round out what is simply, an underground bomb and therefore, worthy of what this label has always been about, bringing great records to new ears.

Maverick musician and artist Edvard Graham Lewis returns with ‘Alreet?’: an exciting album of majestic, experimental pop. Yet, the cheery North Eastern greeting of the album’s title belies the tension and drama that lies within. Here, you’ll find visceral rhythms, warm electronics and multiple melodic layers, with words that are sometimes sung, sometimes spoken. Lewis’s deep, distinctive voice has matured into a rich baritone: portentous yet immediate - and it serves his material exceptionally well. Although he is perhaps best known as bassist/ vocalist/lyricist with post-punk titans Wire, Lewis’s solo work is equally powerful. Lyrically he remains one of our finest wordsmiths. His desire to edit his text to its essentials is smartly counterbalanced by an ability to seed double or triple meanings in his phraseology. Consequently, the whole enterprise is studded with lines and couplets that snare our attention with unexpected hooks and barbs. The album is co produced with Swedish songwriter, producer and musician Max Lorentz, who has worked with everyone from acclaimed composer Magnus Lindberg to ABBA’s Agnetha Faltskog. As ‘Alreet?’ clearly demonstrates, Lewis is still firmly facing the future and determined to unearth new sonic treasure. Indeed, this is one of the most starkly original albums you will hear all year

*press Release From David Katz*

The Hardest Working Reggae Band In Southern England, Dubheart Is On A Mission To Spread Messages Of Peace, Love, Unity And Resistance Through A Heady Stew Of Contemporary Roots Reggae, Delivered On Live Instruments With A Hefty Dose Of Dub In The Mix. Cool Under Pressure, Their Latest Offering, Is The Band's Most Compelling Set To Date, A 'showcase'-style Album Where Every Vocal Track Is Followed By Its Dub Counterpart, And The Vital Contribution Of The Brassica Horns—from Rising London Ska Band Chainska Brassica—is Another Intriguing Element That Makes This Album Tougher Than The Rest.

Drawing On The Foundations Laid By Jamaican Stalwarts Such As Burning Spear, Dennis Brown And Culture, Dub Pioneers Like Scientist And Jah Shaka, Plus Newer Vanguards Such As Tarrus Riley, Grounation And Conscious Sounds, Dubheart Has Crafted A Distinctly Appealing Style That Is Very Much Their Own, Based On The Organic Presentation Of Their Musical Vision. Indeed, This Fully Self-contained Five-piece Is Firmly Engrained In The Neo-roots Movement Of The Present, With A Sound That Faces Ever Forwards.

The South Coast-based Band Was First Formed Back In 1999, And Slowly Built A Following Through Their Intense Live Performances, Which Always Harnessed A Live Dub Element. Their First Ep, the Solid Foundation Rhythm,' Issued On Their Own Karnatone Label In 2011 And Featuring Dub Mixes By Russ D Of The Disciples, Became A Regular Part Of Jah Shaka's Live Playlists. It Was Followed By The 7' 45, we Chant,' Featuring The Band's Charismatic Bristol-based Lead Singer, Tenja (who Originally Hails From France), The Track Becoming An Underground Anthem In Japan (via Rob Smith, Aka Rsd). Dubheart's First Album, Mental Slavery, Was Released In 2013, A Momentous Year That Also Saw The Band Win The European Reggae Contest Staged By Rototom Sunsplash, Leading To A European Tour With Festival Appearances At Summerjam (germany), Reggae Sun Ska (france), Overjam (slovenia), Sudoweste (portugal), United Islands (czech Republic) And The Sardinia Reggae Festival, As Well As Rototom In Spain. Then, In 2015, Karnatone Issued The Dub Companion To Mental Slavery, Mixed Down In A Heavy Dubwise Fashion By Drummer Gavin Sant, Otherwise Known As Fullness, The Band Was Then Invited To Participate In The Bbc Television Show, The Uk's Best Part-time Band, Leading To Their Ep Of Cover Tunes, 2016's full Time Pressure,' Again With Dub Versions From Fullness. part Of The Band's Appeal Lies In Its Tightness As A Recording And Performing Unit, When You See Them Live, You Understand That This Band Of Brothers Is On A Higher Mission, United In Their Wish To Use Music As A Means Of Upliftment. And That Sentiment Is Entirely Evident On Cool Under Pressure. The Melodic Bass Grooves Of Mark Shepherd Act As The Perfect Buffer To The Furious Rolls And Expressive Drum Patterns Of Fullness, David 'daddy U' Mountjoy Adds Scintillating Melodies On Keyboards, Including Some Delightful Wurlitzer Lines, And Richard Ramsey's Guitar Licks Tend Towards The Understated, Aside From The Occasional Solo Pyrotechnics, As Heard Here On rocky Road.' And On Songs Like can't Wait,' watcha Gonna Do' And The Title Track, The Brassica Horns Add Further Melodic Depth Through Fanfares Of Treble Brass Texture. with The Rhythms Laid Entirely Through Live Recording Sessions Cut At Fullness' Home Studio In Bournemouth (with Horn And Wurlitzer Overdubs Done Elsewhere), Cool Under Pressure Reveals Dubheart As A Band On The Rise, Heading For Unstoppable Heights.

The Dub Deconstructions On The Disc Allow The Listener To Hear The Exceptional Quality Of Their Playing, Emphasizing Each Member's Individual Talent, While The Lyrics Tackle Subjects We Can All Relate To, With watcha Gonna Do' Addressing Social Inequalities, can't Wait' Alluding To The Refugee Crisis, rocky Road' Imploring Everyone To Hold Strong In Trying Times, And rise Up' Calling For Direct Action Against The Unjust System That Rules Our Lands. Overall, The Outstanding Title Track cool Under Pressure' Really Sums Up The Band's Ethos: The System May Burden Us With The Stresses Of Censure And Control, But Our Obligation Is To Stay True To Ourselves And Resist. And The Music Can Help Us To Achieve This.

“Gallows” is our third solo EP for Artikal Music, and was written over mid-2020 as an intended collection of 140bpm tracks with varied styles, themes and sound palettes, which would still gel together in EP form. The track that got the ball rolling was the title track, “Gallows” a link-up with PAV4N, in which we explored some of the more melodic, experimental corner of our sound for the instrumental, which is beautifully contrasted by Pav’s aggressive and intense delivery, and his lyrics which serve as an observation on political and government hierarchies. The second track, “Understand”, is a more dark, dub-focused outing, with chunky elements and bass that are built for sound system playback. Building this one was really fun, allowing us to dig for drums and elements that we don’t typically use to create a more grungy experience. Track three, “Blinded”, goes darker still, enlisting regular collaborator Jack Flynn-Oakley, who we love working with, to write something with pure, crushing impact and a level of anxiety that increases steadily throughout the track. There’s no dance that this one hasn’t shelled down yet. The final track, “Inner Sanctum”, was the last track to be finished for the release and is a track we’ve been keeping locked down for a while now. It’s an off-kilter mix of wailing vocal cuts, cold bass movement, and percussion that’s bursting with character.

We’re stoked to be back on Artikal, and we hope you guys enjoy the sounds this time around.

Will & Mike
Mystic State

The duo Weekend Affair, gazing up at the sky, composed and wrote their third French album, Vol Intérieur, with clouds, planes, and birds in mind—everything that floats in the air and gives the impression of a certain kind of freedom. The lyrics reflect the love stories so dear to Louis Aguilar, sung over Cyril Debarge’s minimalist synth-pop instrumentals, where the bouncing bass and strong kick are never far behind. As in 2018 with the album Du Rivage, the duo teamed up with Reims-based producer Yuksek to refine their artistic vision and bring their songs to the edge of dance music.

This subtle balance has become the duo’s signature, growing more distinct with each album. The album consists of 10 tracks, including a cover of Le courage des oiseaux by Dominique A. The 150,000 streams of the first two singles from the album show that their listeners haven’t forgotten them and are quite on board with this new release.

Following the success of the limited edition ATARI 50 vinyl, Microids Records and ATARI are teaming up for a new limited edition vinyl featuring ATARI Recharged.

The Recharged collection is a series of video games by Atari, Inc. that are remakes and reimaginings of classic Atari franchises. The series launched in 2020 with Missile Command: Recharged as the first title and has completely revived several franchises. Berzerk: Recharged, released on November 8, 2023, is the first game in the Berzerk series since the 1980s.

It also includes titles such as Asteroids: Recharged, Caverns of Mars: Recharged, Centipede: Recharged, Yar’s Revenge: Recharged, Gravitar: Recharged, Breakout: Recharged, Black Widow: Recharged, and Quantum: Recharged. A new soundtrack has been created for each game by Megan McDuffee. This vinyl includes the complete soundtrack collection: 40 tracks across 2 colored vinyl records, presented in a gatefold edition.

Diagonal Records proudly welcomes a new face to the label. Off the back of recent 13th birthday celebrations, Diagonal is now looking to the future with an exciting release from Australian upstart, Jonus Eric. Jonus has recently appeared on Gerd Janson's iconic Running Back label. This 12" EP features centre label artwork by Guy Featherstone inspired by Peter Saville's work for Factory Records.

The "Diode" EP comprises 6 tracks of sample – laden, psychedelic house music. EP opener, "Darkwhirl" brings to mind Theo Parrish, a regular reference point across the release. "Crimewave" offers an irresistible, funk soaked bassline. "Shapeshift" is when things get gnarly! "Antibiotics" reimagines a classic Todd Terry rave cut whilst EP closer "Polarity" provides a 90's IDM inspired finale.

Theresa Stroetges returns to Karaoke Kalk with her second album for the Berlin-based label, her fifth solo full-length with her Golden Diskó Ship project in total. Having released records with the Indian-German band project Hotel Kali as well as Painting, a group dedicated to audio-visual concepts, »Oval Sun Patch« sees her embrace influences from club culture, advanced electronic music, and pop more firmly than ever before. Over the past 15 years, Golden Diskó Ship has served a vessel with which the Berlin-based multi-instrumentalist has traversed a variety of genres and circumnavigated all conventions in the process. With »Oval Sun Patch,« Stroetges again sets sail into unknown waters with what is perhaps her catchiest album so far—beat-driven, playful, atmospheric, and at times thoroughly anthemic. This is the sound of Golden Diskó Ship moving forward.

A life lived in transit, the vastness of bodies of water and the isolation of islands as well as more generally notions of processes and progress have been recurring motives throughout Stroetges’ previous records and also mark »Oval Sun Patch.« In fact, the foundation for the six pieces was laid when she was working abroad and at times close to the sea. The massive three-part album closer »Earth Before The Space Race« was conceived as a multi-channel audio-visual performance piece during a 2021 residency at Zaratan Arte Contemporânea in Lisbon. The others were written in the following year during two other residencies when Stroetges first spent time in Austria at the sound art festival Klangmanifeste in Lindabrunn and then visited Portugal once more for a stay at Goethe-Institut in Lisbon. With the help of Shelley Barradas, who lent her a guitar, and Julia Klein, who helped her setting up a temporary studio in the Goethe-Institut Portugal’s auditorium, she made the preliminary recordings of what would later become this album.

»Oval Sun Patch«, later refined in Berlin and mixed in close collaboration with London-based engineer Hannes Plattmeier, is a direct result of Stroetges having to work with what was available to her at the time of writing and recording. While her distinct guitar playing—evocative yet funky, complex but catchy—once more features heavily and she uses her voice in manifold ways to sometimes harmonise with herself or creating complex canons as counterpoints to her her own lead vocals, the electronic gear she worked with dominates the album both compositionally and sonically. Stroetges’ music has always displayed a passion for club culture and advanced electronic music, but on »Oval Sun Patch« she proves once and for all how well these influences can be integrated into her unconventional approach to songwriting.

However, the punchy beat and Moroder-like bassline that form the backbone of »Dolphins With Soft Helmets,« the throbbing house and techno grooves underneath »Ephemeral Carnivores« and »Well-Oiled Machine« as well as the jittery IDM rhythms of »Google Your New Name« and her nods to trip-hop with »Tiny Island« do not so much follow established formulas as they use them as a starting point for wild experimentation instead. Stroetges juxtaposes complex rhythms with interlocking melodies and rich harmonies in ways that continue to surprise throughout and still leave enough space for the occasional wistful guitar or vocal passage. Nowhere does this approach feel more epic than on the 12 ½ minutes long »Earth Before The Space Race,« which takes its time to unfold, changing its pace and mood throughout.

»Oval Sun Patch« is an album about change. The lyrics describe constant transformations of sceneries, relationships, physical and emotional states as well as the climate throughout its running time. Stroetges in the meanwhile leads the way as a singer, songwriter and producer who lets her music evolve constantly. This is sound, moving forward.

La Sonora Mazuren is the latest addition to the already rich indie-tropical scene out of Bogotá, Colombia. Deeply rooted in the popular sounds and rhythms of South America, the group draws from cumbia, chicha, guaracha, champeta and other styles mostly from Ecuador, Colombia and Peru.

Far from being folklorists or revivalists, La Sonora Mazuren combines synthesizers and electric guitars with accordion and percussion to create a futuristic style indebted to early pioneers such as Polibio Mayorga or Bogota’s own Eblis Alvarez, of Meridian Brothers fame, who also produced their debut album.

The result is a psychedelic feast reminiscent of the golden years of Tropicalia.

Their first album, Bailando con Extraños, got them many accolades in Europe, in France in particular where the band toured in the fall of 23 and again in the summer of 24.

Their follow up album, Magnetismo Animal, was mostly tracked in rural Normandy, during one of their European tours, and completed in Bogotá. Barbès Records (Roots of Chicha, Chicha Libre, Chico Trujillo) will be releasing it in the fall.

Franz Mesmer and his theory of animal magnetism provide the running theme for their new album. A collection of songs linked by the idea of a shared trance-inducing energy, channeled through rhythms and sound experiments. Musical inspiration for the album come from Colombian gaita, vallenato and cumbia, Peruvian huayno and chicha, Ecuadorian Sanjuanitos - a panoply of Afro-Andean traditions filtered through a futuristic vision of dance music that melds percussion-heavy polyrhythms and psychedelic sounds.

Band members are all active on the new tropical Bogotá scene. Keyboardist and accordionist Ivan Medellin and bassist Nicolas Eckardt are members of cult band Romperayo. Percussionists and singers Giovanna Mogollón and Diana

Sanmiguel are also 2/3 of popular trio LA PERLA.

Hana Vus "kontemplativer Indie-Pop fängt die Desillusionierung des jungen Erwachsenseins ein", schreibt der NME. Ihre neue LP Romanticism unterstreicht dieses Gefühl als ein Coming-of-Age-Werk, das die Vergänglichkeit der Jugend betrauert und nach einem Sinn sucht. Die in LA geborene Songwriterin macht seit der High School Musik und hat bereits ein Debütalbum und mehrere EPs mit glühenden, grüblerischen Hymnen voller Abstraktion und Emotionen veröffentlicht. Bei ihren früheren Arbeiten hat Vu immer wieder Feedback erhalten, aber für die Entwicklung von Romanticism hat sie sich von der Außenwelt abgeschirmt, um ihre eigene Vision zu bewahren. Das Ergebnis ist eine einheitliche Sammlung von Songs, die vor Tiefe und Intimität nur so strotzen. Die üppigen und lauten Songs erinnern sowohl an gitarrenlastigen Indie-Rock der späten Achtzigerjahre als auch an futuristisch anmutende Synthie-Bass-Schichten. Sie pulsieren vor Bedeutung und schütteln sich vor Verspieltheit, getragen von ihrer kraftvollen, sonoren Stimme und unterstrichen durch das von der Romantik inspirierte Artwork der Platte.

The latest from prolific producer and trumpeter Michael Leonhart (Steely Dan, Mark Ronson, El Michels Affair, Elvis Costello). The Leonhart Brass Band features members of Antibalas, the Dap-Kings & Red Baraat. The Leonhart Brass Band was conceived during the 2020 COVID-19 quarantine when trumpeter/composer/producer Michael Leonhart was unable to perform with his 18-piece orchestra at NYC's famous Jazz Standard. Leonhart began composing music for a small brass band that would be capable of playing outdoors without amplification. Building on the foundation of the classic brass bands (Dirty Dozen Brass and Rebirth Brass Band), Leonhart has infused elements of hip-hop and funk to create his own sound. The Leonhart Brass Band features members of Antibalas, the Dap-Kings & Red Baraat. "Jabbar" – Dedicated to and inspired by hooping legend Kareem Abdul Jabbar (aka Lew Alcindor), whose father was a transit police officer/jazz musician and whose mother worked as a department store price checker. In addition to Jabbar's storied career on the hardcourt, Jabbar grew up surrounded by jazz and has been a die-hard music fan his entire life, tragically losing his vast record collection in a 1983 fire that destroyed his LA home. Leonhart's tribute centers around an infectious bass riff in C minor, punctuated by brass stabs and solos by Leonhart on trumpet and Jason Marshall on the seldom-heard bass saxophone. "The Iceman" – The title is taken from basketball great George Gervin's famous nickname given to him during his years playing in both the ABA (American Basketball Association) and the NBA (National Basketball Association) for teams such as the Virginia Squires, San Antonio Spurs and Chicago Bulls. Legend has it the name came from Gervin's cool temperament on the court and his rare ability to play incredibly hard without breaking a sweat. "The Iceman" sees the Leonhart Brass Band horn section dividing into two groups as they play counterpoint melodies against one another. The tape echo effected bari sax solo is performed by Stuart Bogie

Nat King Cole was born Nathaniel Adams on the 17th March 1917 in Montgomery, Alabama, USA. His family held a key position in the local black community with his father being pastor of the local Baptist church.

His first professional break came touring with the Broadway show “shuffle along” which eventually found its way to Los Angeles. Where Nat ended up playing at the century club on Santa Monica boulevard. This was an in-place for musicians and Nat’s already developed and incredible piano playing became a great attraction eventually forming a trio with Oscar Moore on guitar and Wesley Price on bass. With Nat’s great voice and add libs the trio were a great success in 1939/40.

In 1943 Cole signed to the infant Capitol records and began his enormous string of hits for that label and eventual amazing career partnership with the great arranger and orchestra leader Nelson Riddle. This was at the time of popular music already pioneered by Bing Crosby and latterly Frank Sinatra and something Nat would become a master of, with his by now incredible, highly developed and unique voice which we all instantly recognise.

Right up until his untimely and tragic death on 15th February 1965, Nat made a string of successful records for capitol, a string of film appearances, and the first black presenter of his own tv show, which ran for many years and introduced a whole host of new and old artists to the television screens. As is so often with people so talented, Nat’s life was short but extremely successful. He was a well loved and admired person with his vibrant and kind personality with many great friends and colleagues and made an enormous contribution to the music industry, civil rights and the world in general.

As a singer and pianist, he was exceptionally talented, and his voice will live on in immortality. His ability to express and sing any song was quite extraordinary to say the least and these recordings are a fine example of that ability. A must have for all music lovers!

Christened ‘High Tide’ after the sudden rising of the LA River basin during a particularly epic and rare rainfall, this cosmic slop funk jam was born from the minds of Devin Flynn (Pixeltan) and Eddie Ruscha (Secret Circuit), two individuals with a deep connection to Los Angeles’ tap water sources. While traipsing through the aisles of an Atwater Village bodega, the two mustered up a plan to create a rhythmic piece so delectable as to turn peoples’ heads inside out and pummel the senses with a wobbly Jah Wobble bass sound and a toy drum machine ‘no toy’ style back beat. They figured if they laced it up with enough electronic scuzz, the masses would be sure to want to sip from its nectar.

When DFA got wind it was all systems go and, from then on, all relevant parties knew that they should sit on the track for at least five years before it was released, otherwise the world at large would not be ready for it. The remixes are by Eddie himself - as Secret Circuit - and Dr. Dunks, aka Eric Duncan, a fellow Angeleno (at least at heart). Eric and Devin rolled through the streets as small children, shredding curbs and tagging local ice cream trucks, so it was inevitable they would reconnect and jam on ‘High Tide’.

Devin Flynn is an animator, musician and teacher who has worked on projects like Gary Panter’s web series Pink Donkey & The Fly and MTV2’s Wonder Showzen. He has previously released on DFA with Pixeltan, a trio - Flynn, Hisham Bharoocha of Black Dice and singer Mika Yoneta - that recorded with The DFA at the label’s inception, creating two seminal singles.

Eddie Ruscha is another DFA veteran, having remixed artists including Wolfram and Museum of Love. He has been making music for decades, as Secret Circuit and with myriad other aliases and collaborators, in addition to recording under his own name. He has released on labels like Beats in Space and Emotional Response, among others.

For fans of Young Marco, Suzanne Kraft, Prins Thomas, Khotin, Gaussian Curve.

The Queen of Jazz and 'Satchmo' had duetted earlier in their illustrious
careers. But it wasn't until Producer Norman Granz came up with the
idea of putting them together for specific albums that their true
chemistry was revealed. The Platinum Collection features two iconic
albums Ella & Louis and Ella & Louis Again. Both albums feature Jazz
At The Phil regulars Oscar Peterson (Piano), Herb Ellis (Guitar), Ray
Brown (Bass) and Buddy Rich (Drums) with the exception of Louis
Bellson replacing Buddy Rich on Ella & Louis Again recording. Now it's
time for Fitzgerald to 'take it Ella - swing it'....

MC Fats was a beloved figure in the drum and bass community, known for his smooth vocals and infectious energy on the mic. With a career spanning over two decades, he collaborated with some of the biggest names in the genre, including DJ Hype, Calibre, Alix Perez, and of course the multi genre chart topping Chase & Status!

Sadly, MC Fats passed away in March 2023, leaving behind a legacy of incredible music and unforgettable performances. But his influence lives on, and his music continues to inspire and uplift fans around the world. One of MC Fats' final releases is a new single called Anytime, in collaboration with Drum and Bass legend and producer partner Cool Hand Flex.

As one of Suburban Base original artist roster we were delighted to welcome them ‘back home’, and Fats was excited to see the reaction and plays the Anytime was already gaining. Having discussed with Flex, his dear friend and long-time collaborator, we together feel that it's appropriate that this release goes ahead as a tribute to our brother.

The track features MC Fats' signature soulful vocals, layered over Flex's classic jungle beats and modern production techniques. The single also includes an incredible remix from up-and-coming producer FreezeUK, adding a stunning version to the package which is already gaining maximum play nationwide.

Anytime is a testament to MC Fats' enduring talent and passion for Drum and Bass music. It's a reminder of the joy and energy he brought to the scene, and a tribute to his unforgettable voice and spirit. As we mourn the loss of MC Fats, we celebrate his incredible legacy and the impact he had on the Drum and Bass community.

His music will live on, inspiring new generations of artists and fans alike. Don't miss your chance to own this essential piece of Drum and Bass history - pre-order your copy of ‘Anytime’ now, and join us in celebrating the life and music of MC Fats.

ANYTIME will be released on vinyl & digital formats April 2023

John Gosling (aka Mekon) the English big beat/industrial musician and electronica producer, is set to launch his new label Hua Hua (pronounced wah wah) with an 11-track compilation album this July. A quick scan at some of the featured artists showcases a line up of legends - eighties rap sensation Schooly D sitting alongside Primal Scream mainstay Bobby Gillespie and John’s recently departed punk hero Alan Vega - even Roxy Music’s saxophonist and founder member Andy Mackay makes an appearance. And while John’s electronic alter ego Mekon is always on hand to remix and arrange, he’s far from the only producer behind the proverbial wheel.
“It’s stuff I had lying around and now I am finding ways to get it out of my system,” he says. “It’s all been brought to the world with brilliant new artwork by Isabelle de Jour, who also features on various tracks.”
Gosling is well known as a member of both Psychic TV and Coil (for the album Transparent). Gosling founded the groups Zos Kia with John Balance and Bass-o-Matic with William Orbit before recording as Mekon. He has also remixed under the name Sugar J. And that’s before we get to the fact that he has soundtracked some of the most forward-thinking fashion shows in the world - crafting the soundscapes for Alexander McQueen shows since the show Dante in 1996. Firstly working hand in hand with the late great Lee “Alexander” McQueen, then with his successor Sarah Burton. In the mid-to-late-nineties he was a core member of the group Agent Provocateur along with Matthew Ashman (originally of Bow Wow Wow), Dan Peppe, Danny Saber (of Black Grape) and Cleo Torez. He has also worked with artists such as Roxanne Shanté ('Yes Yes Y'All'), Marc Almond ('Delirious'), and Afrika Bambaataa. His third album “Something Came Up” featured artwork by Alexander McQueen.
John is as passionate about Suicide and Alan Vega and what he describes as “the new stuff”. Besides, he says, “that’s how people listen to music now. I think kids – my kids anyway – listen right across the board. People don’t see genres anymore. So it’s my definition of good music.” It’s safe to say that this is very much Volume 1. “Yes, it doesn’t cover everything and Volume 2 will be completely different.”

Wonder what happens when 4 friends occasionally link up and make a few cheeky house tunes in between talking about pizza, footy, and kick drums? Cheek Inc!
Wonder what music 4 people (Nic/Rafael from !!! and Preslav/Adam from PTA) who’ve released music on Warp, Good Looking Records, Freerange, Pittsburgh Tracks, and Dischord would write? Cheek Inc!
Wonder why? Cheek Inc! “Jacqueline” is the debut EP by Cheek Inc: a vocal house 12” with 3 mixes to make you feel like you’ve always known why you have to just keep going. The A side brings flavors of classic piano house, adding a huge sub bassline, soaring synth pads and leads. The B1 “303” mix strips things down with a hypnotic bass groove, rhodes chords that keeps the pace, and an insistent 303 line that runs in and out like you know who. The B2 “Still Life” mix takes it deep by cutting up the vocal, with a sliding, playful lead line, bouncy chords, and a drum groove that shuffles and swings while THAT string line never quite goes away. Cheek Inc!

Damon Wild steps up to Synewave with The Mood Machine, a thrilling exploration of some sleek and stylish techno. 'Make Believe' opens with a dancing line of hi-hats over pulsing sonar-like blips and driving bass. It's a future take on Detroit techno that leads into the mystic sounds of swirling pads of 'Reflection'. 'Elevate' slows things down with a more moody blend of pads and glitchy beats over rolling drums and 'Starliner' then melts theming with intricately woven layers of sheet metal snares and linear kicks. All four of these are timeless and high-quality techno tools.

Mali Blakamix unleashes another 7” instrumental after a long time, Rebellion. Lifted from the album ' Ruff & Ready'; Re- bellion boasts a militant drum pattern and energetic bassline, with the rest of the composition giving space for Mali to use his effects and offer up a unique instrumental A side. The B Side is even more effect laden with Mali experimenting with his effects chains and delivering a wild dub mix.

Fans of the previous releases 'Iron Fist'. 'Retaliation', 'Ariginal Militant Steppa' and others are sure to appreciate this release.

George Clinton’s imagination knew no bounds and, defying normal music industry convention, by 1978 had five bands signed to three different record labels. One of these comprised of three Parliament / Funkadelic female backing singers working under the name of Parlet, whose debut single, ‘Pleasure Principle’ was released on Casablanca Records in March 1978.

It was Clinton’s idea that two other backing singers, Lynn Mabry and Dawn Silva, become the Brides Of Funkenstein, a character he invented for the 1976 Parliament LP, “The Clones Of Dr Funkenstein”. “I have to be honest – at first, I hated the name and I thought George was kidding,” Mabry told Blues & Soul, “But I have gotten to like it – especially just the Brides.”

Clinton got the Brides signed to Atlantic Records and their first single was ‘Disco To Go’ / ‘ When You’re Gone’. The A-side was written and produced by Clinton and Bootsy Collins and had originally featured in live shows by Collins’ live band. Clinton was asked by Black Echoes why the song was recorded by the Brides rather than Bootsy. “He could, and it would have been a smash too,” he replied. “But we thought it sounded too much like James Brown, so we gave it to the girls. Now it don’t sound like James Brown.” It certainly did not and this electronic bass and horn-powered banger – complete with an Old MacDonald nursery rhyme refrain – debuted on the Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart at #80 on 30th September 1978. By the time the P-Funk crew were flying across the Atlantic in early November it had peaked at #7. Sadly for UK fans, ‘Disco To Go’ was only available on import although a Black Echoes review stated it was a “Slow chunky handclapper. It sounds not unlike Funkadelic’s own ‘Coming Round The Mountain’”.

‘Disco To Go’, went gold in America selling over 500,000 copies. It was the perfect springboard for the Brides debut LP, “Funk Or Walk” which quickly climbed into the upper reaches of the R&B chart and even saw the duo embark upon a signing tour of record stores. All of the songs on “Funk Or Walk” were written by legends of P-Funk, such as Bootsy Collins, Rodney Curtis, Bernie Worrell, Gary Shider and Clinton. “George has got thousands of tracks,” Mabry told Black Echoes. “When we go into the studio he says, ‘Like this one?

From the pure Guinean tribal rhythm mixed with a collection of poems by Justo Bolekia, to the purest traditional jazz, to the hip hop & Neo-Soul that so characterizes the 90’s and 00’s. Omar seeks to mix old with modern, mainstream with underground, carnal with mental and the energy to move the skeleton, mix the relics of black music and transport them to 2022, where even today greater injustices continue to be noticed. and social and racial differences.

On this album, Omar Alcaide chooses to trick very varied collaborations, and take the album from the perspective of producer, composer and lead guitarist, even though there are some songs in which he sings. At his side, Juan Arance helps produce, compose and write most of the pieces that make up this album. It has collaborations such as Juanito Makandé; a flying soul, DORA; young promise, daughter of Bimba Bosé, Bubby Lewis; bassist for Snoop Dogg or Stevie Wonder, among others, Aqeelion; rapper and singer from Los Angeles, he shared with Erykah Badu or Dr. Dre in the 90’s.

MAMMOTH is a grabber right out of the gate, every step they take is unleashed with deadly economical precision. They may flash on Lynyrd Skynyrd and other vintage southern rock traditions but the brilliant way the vocals are recorded and the to-the-point interlocking guitar moves will fire up anybody into any sort of hard rock. They can rip it up with hot leads, probably jammed out on these songs at live shows but lucky us, they laid them down for all times here with the sort of thought out unified force and construction that screams hit radio. Loads of personality, accessible, produced and mixed with the clarity of classic rock that never loses it's perfectly deployed impact. The uncluttered arrangements leave plenty of space, crafted with the kind of balanced mojo in the mix where every detail adds to the whole. Down and dirty but also achieving a universal pop-friendly appeal! The Mammoth LP was recorded in 1981 at Relayer Studios in DeLand, Florida with the two guitars, bass and drums quartet line-up sounding like it could have been a decade earlier. Buzz Fetters on lead guitar, Bill Abell on rhythm guitar, Joey Costa on bass and Ron Herman on drums… with everybody contributing to the vocals. Rather than having a strong up front emotive singer the lead vocals here are multi-tracked and integrated into the songs with plenty of attitude but also a genre-transcending presence… you can imagine the vocal ambience working in punk, glam, even psychedelic contexts. Mammoth have a sound informed by roots music but it is really in the rear-view mirror the way they roll. The songwriting here is terrific, they have a way of saying things that comes off as sincere but not too serious. You get plenty of in-your-face hard rock action but also several melodic tracks that have a more reflective charm to round out the trip. AND… when you hear their brilliant ode to southern rock titled "Southern Sounds" I challenge you to find any song about the subject more delightful. These guys keep it real, whether they're being bad ass or vulnerable they express themselves with 100% genuine feeling as contagious and life affirming as it gets!

Faszinierend, energiegeladen und hypnotisch! Prepared - ein freigeistiges Trio, das in kammermusikalischer Besetzung unkonventionell und instinktiv Tanzimpulse weckt und den Hörer in einen tranceartigen Klangraum entführt!

Ein Pianist, der auf dem Flügel unablässig hämmert, klopft und zupft. Ein Klarinettist, der in den Tiefen seiner Bassklarinette mehr Bass als Klarinette spielt. Und ein Drummer, der wie eine gute Schallplatte immer weiterläuft und die Grooves fortwährend im Kreise dreht.
Drei Münchner Jazzmusiker, vereint in Ihren Gegensätzen. Wo der eine mit Quadro Nuevo argentinischen Tango, der andere mit Dreiviertelblut "folklorefreie Volksmusik" oder der dritte mit Moop Mama deutschen Hip-Hop spielt, lassen sie in ihrem neuen Projekt Prepared gemeinsam zyklische Motive und raffiniert geschichtete Muster in minimalistischen, aber höchst virtuosen Kompositionen zu einem faszinierenden Gesamtkunstwerk verschmelzen. Als hätte man Jonny Greenwood, Dawn of Midi, Nik Bärtsch und Steve Reich in einen Topf geworfen.

Line-Up:

Chris Gall • prepared piano
Flo Riedl • bass clarinet
Christoph Holzhauser • drums

The Recording: Für eine "state-of-the-art" immersive Musikproduktion wurde die Musik "live" in einem Raum ohne jegliche Overdubs aufgenommen. Dieses Album wurde mit erstklassigen 3D-Aufnahme- und Mikrofonierungstechniken für Dolby Atmos aufgenommen und von renommierten Toningenieuren gemischt und gemastert.
Recorded by Kseniya Kawko at Kyberg Studio, Munich, mixed by Kseniya Kawko at MSM Studio, Munich and mastered by Christoph Stickel at csmastering, Vienna

Format: Schwarzes Vinyl inklusive Downloadkarte

For the hotly anticipated third release on her critically acclaimed new record label Uppers and Downers, Dr. Rubinstein has tapped one of her favorite producers--Yerevan's Dave N.A.--to take the helm and deliver a smart and stunning rave EP pitched at the intersection of acid and jungle. A prolific producer, adventurous DJ, and co-founder of the ABC Community, Yerevan's collective hub for amplifying breakbeat,jungle, and drum & bass sounds in the Armenian rave community, Dave N.A. is no stranger to Uppers and Downers, just having contributed a vivacious, jungle influenced reinterpretation of Rubi's track "Extacid" to the label's second release, Rubi's Acid Spa Remixes. For the past decade, Dave N.A.'s productions have reliably offered a fresh, frenetic yet finely tuned take on classic rave genres and their acid-drenched antics while exploring the cutting edge of international experimental bass and hard rave idioms. 'XLSoundwaves' proves to be no exception, taking listeners on a boisterous yet atmospheric, tight yet sprawling sonic journey that combines acid, jungle, hard trance, breakbeat, and IDM influences amid a striking wash of captivating, high-definition ambient studio sound design.
'XL Soundwaves' kicks off with "BFLY," an expansive track that features tunneling hard trance 303 lines deftly weaving through bouncy jungle breaks at a sprightly 165, all emerging from and ultimately fading back into an ethereal plenitude of ambient pads punctuated by a soulful, resonant vocal refrain. Next up, "Radiance" offers an infectiously groovy, sidewinding jaunt through cheeky acid breaks that evolves into a crescendo of lush, eyes-to-the-sky ecstasy. "XL," the EP's third offering, brings the heat with fat basslines, frequent turntablist rave licks, and a freaky sense of humor, almost cinematically projected onto a vast horizon of sumptuous strings. The EP comes to closewith "A.I.R.," a thoughtful banger with a mischievous IDM sensibility that sets acid jungle adrift on an ocean of shimmering orchestral sampladelia and ambient synth radiance.
To some, Dave N.A.'s acid jungle opus might seem like an unexpected plot twist in thecuratorial trajectory of Uppers and Downers. Much to the contrary however, the 'XL Soundwaves EP' is a perfect early release, helping to establish the mission of Uppersand Downers as continuing the search across diverse international rave genres, traditions, and communities for producers and productions that resonate with Dr.Rubinstein's lifelong pursuit of soundtracking her ideal rave: one that offers ravers access to an ecstatic, joyful, affirmative, and inclusive sense of home, of feeling at homewith both oneself and one another through the music.

DISCHI presents Pablo Bozzi's new EP, Fantasy. After releasing multiple singles, the Berlin-based producer and DJ is back with three fresh tracks. Saddle up and get ready to ride with Sunday Rodeo, opening the EP with upbeat bouncy bass, hard-hitting 90s synths and a piano-driven melody. On Fantasy, an alluring voice leads, accompanied by potent kicks and zesty lines, sprinkled with a touch of acid. Closing the EP is Siempre, a dreamy, gleaming synthwave journey scattered with distant yet intimate voice samples. Once again, Bozzi demonstrates his undeniable ability to get dancefloors moving.

Starting off the dance on the A side, we have Blaze pres. UDAUFL with 'Most Precious Love (DF's Future 3000 Mix)' featuring the iconic Barbara Tucker on vocals. The driving piano bass line gets you in the groove just before those unmistakable lyrics break you into song.

A2 gets us reminiscing about those 'good old days', letting loose on the dancefloor in New Jersey’s Club Zanzibar. A legendary club spot back in its heyday, championed by its resident DJ Tony Humphries. A strong club cut, produced by Jovonn with vocals bringing the track to life by vocalist LY.

On the B side, we start with 'Closer (King Street Moody Club Mix)' by Mood II Swing feat. Carole Sylvan. It's a real dancefloor banger produced by one of the best house duos in the game!

Wrapping things up is the euphoric 'Cascades of Colour (Wamdue Black Mix)' feat. Gaelle on vocals and produced by Ananda Project. It's a timeless track, perfect for any sunrise or sunset.

House heads unite. An absolute must have

You Are The Morning was formed amid personal upheaval in 2021. "I came out as trans to my nearest and dearest," she says, "Some did not accept me, but some did." Jasmine got divorced, and a difficult home life meant she was writing while experiencing homelessness and precarious housing, sleeping on friend's couches and relying on community support. Despite the pain of some of its background, the record is an uplifting look at t4t love. Jasmine describes her first trans romance as the first time she experienced joy in a deep sense, because of her experience of living as a woman. First single `Skin on Skin' explores the new joy of physical touch. Usually a quick writer, it's a rare song that grew over time, during which a close connection with a friend began to form. "Sticking to the physical boundaries we wanted to have with each other became increasingly difficult. We were spending lots of time together, then falling in love. This song became a celebration of healing and physical catharsis found through unrepressed queer love." The first UK signee on Saddest Factory Records, the album was produced by Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus. Jasmine and her band travelled to L.A. to record at Sound City Studios. It was made across 12 days in a highly collaborative and emotional process, and because Jasmine sees her songs as fluid and ever-changing, the recordings carry that free and spontaneous spirit. jasmine.4.t is supported by an all-trans band, Phoenix Rousiamanis contributes piano and strings, with Eden O'Brien on drums and Emily Abbott on bass. With Jasmine's voice and songwriting at the centre, the record incorporates a wider cast of voices. `Best Friend's House' features a chorus including her bandmates, Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus ("the girls and the boys"), Saddest Factory Records label-mate Claud, Becca Mancari and E.R. Fightmaster. The song carries the communal spirit of the record's creation. On the closing track, `Woman', she is backed by the Trans Chorus of Los Angeles, a cross-generational group of trans singers who, like Jasmine, use their voice as a source of communal power. The song blossoms from solo performance to wider group catharsis. All the while, Jasmine sings unwaveringly about the power of knowing yourself at a core level: "I am, in my soul, a woman". The writing of You Are The Morning pulled from dark moments to tell its story. Surrounded by friends, the recording process was full of light. Through her performances, activism and artistry, jasmine.4.t is ushering in a new dawn.

Innershades comes with a follow up on his Clone Jack For Daze debut from 2019 with his buddy Betonkust.. This time he digs in the local history from his homebase Belgium. The country that brought us the New Beat craze which had its breeding grounds in club's such as Boccaccio. A venue which used to be one of the prime locations in the Benelux to hear the latest House and Techno releases in '89,'90 and '91. All the fresh new sounds from Chicago, Detroit, the big New York labels and producers, Early UK rave and of course the local producers from the Benelux and specificaly those on labels such as R&S, Music Man and USA Import records could be heard in this euphoric club. No surprise that Serge, the founder of Clone records has some fond memories of his visits to Boccaccio and no surprise that this era always has been a huge influence on Innershades. This Homage EP brings a collection of tracks drenched in bleepy acid lines, topped with choir pads and slightly detuned slowly phased chords and dominant mixed bass sections. Energetic tracks that capture the spirit of those days with a contemporary touch from Innershades. Tracks that fit perfectly to the Clone Jack For Daze series inspired by these early days, where people danced for daze on all these energetic and futuristic sounds from the underground.

The 1960 edition of the Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers was one of the band’s greatest line-ups with the drummer joined by trumpeter Lee Morgan, saxophonist Wayne Shorter, pianist Bobby Timmons and bassist Jymie Merritt. Opening with a sublimely swinging version of the title track, the rest of Like Someone In Love presented originals by Morgan and Shorter. This Blue Note Classic Vinyl Edition is stereo, all-analog, mastered by Kevin Gray from the original master tapes, and pressed on 180g vinyl at Optimal.

Limited edition of 250 copies. The musician & songwriter Stein Roger Sordal is finally ready with his second solo album - "_All I Try to Forget" - the second part of a double album where all music and lyrics is written by Sordal himself (both part 1 & 2 available as a single 18 track CD). Through the years, the renowned Norwegian artist has played in a variety of bands. Internationally, he's mostly known as the bass player and songwriter in Green Carnation, while more and more people also know him as the singer, guitar player and songwriter in the band Sordal. Stein Roger Sordal has played on more than 30 album releases from the 90s and up to now, but last year's "As I Try to Remember_" was his first a solo album, where everything was played by himself. Both albums show Sordal diving into his own catalogue, making acoustic versions of songs he originally wrote for bands like Green Carnation, Sordal, Angels Motel, Plutho and Soxpan. His choices haven't necessarily been the most known songs, but rather those who mean the most to him. The album is sparsely arranged, and consists mostly of vocals, acoustic guitars and piano.

Last release of a productive year for Feral Child sees a fabulous mini LP from London based, Japanese Psych band BARBICAN ESTATE. Six beguiling tracks of atmospheric, occasionally acid folk flavoured, melodic > freakout shifts, taking in tips of the hat to Popol Vuh (check Miri’s beautiful vox on “Angel”), Amon Duul and fellow countrymen Acid Mothers Temple and Kikagaku Moyo amongst others. Formed in 2019, this three-piece consists of Kazuki Toneri (guitar, sitar), Miri (bass, flute, vocals), and Koh Hamada (drums, percussion). Each member is well-versed in music, film, and various other arts, drawing inspiration not only from experimental, psychedelic rock, and noise music but also from art across the world, both past and present. Their music weaves solid, architectural elements with destruction into a dark and gloomy soundscape, is often described as "dark psychedelic." They released their first album, “Way Down East”, in 2021. In 2022, they relocated to London, where they performed on UK tours and at festivals. Having already played nearly 50 live shows, they are gaining attention in the local scene. Their latest EP, "Viscum" was released in June 2024. “Barbican City of Tokyo” is a compilation of tunes previously consigned to digital release only that label head, Dom had free rein to assemble an EP from, which luckily the band wholeheartedly agreed upon! …and all four tracks appear on vinyl here for the first time. This release hopefully cements a growing interest in the band’s fabulous music, and early reviews of both the LP here and their live shows are overwhelmingly positive.

"Inhaler are an Irish rock band originating from Dublin. The band consists of vocalist/guitarist Elijah Hewson (son of U2 vocalist Bono), bassist Robert Keating, guitarist Josh Jenkinson and drummer Ryan McMahon. The band were tipped for success in 2020 when they ranked at number 5 in BBC's Sound of... music poll. Inhaler have released nine singles, ""I Want You"", ""It Won't Always Be Like This"", ""My Honest Face"", ""Ice Cream Sundae"", ""We Have to Move On"", ""Falling In"", ""When It Breaks"", ""Cheer Up Baby"", and, most recently, ""Who's Your Money On (Plastic House)"". Their upcoming debut album, It Won't Always Be Like This, will be released on 9 July 2021. This’ a record that sees the band turn their early promise into something special, an album teeming with expansive indie-rock grooves and soaring anthems.
Includes the single Cheer Up Baby, a swooping, epic singalong alongside newly recorded versions of early fan favourites My Honest Face and title track It Won’t Always Be Like This. "

--The fourth outing on Spray’s Punctuality imprint comes in the form of the much anticipated Ode to Beachball EP by Eoin DJ. The release is a fully realised vision of moods and grooves inspired by Nalin & Kane’s 1997 chart topper ‘Beachball’.

Sparse, organic percussion, simple basslines and lush atmospherics form the bedrock of the EP, placing it firmly at the intersection of starry-eyed euphoria and heads-down club-stomp, lending the tracks a timeless but contemporary feel.

Those with their ears to the ground will know that the title number has been somewhat of a sleeper hit for the past two summers. Ode to Beachall’s understated stabs, rolling bass and transcendental vocals have soundtracked many sunsets and have bore the brunt of numerous failed shazam attempts via spins in mixes by trendsetting auteurs like Job Jobse, Sally C and label head Spray.

Bliss Inc’s remix turns up the energy dial with a club-focussed remix of Ode To Beachball, adding extra dynamics to the rhythm and low end, propelling the original into a modern hard-house roller complete with big-room breakdowns and euro-centric stabs, firmly aimed at the dancefloor.

On the flip both Infinite Well and On Lilac Skies stick to the beachball brief- swung bongos and congas, undulating low end and mercurial vocal chops add to the balearic beach techno mood of the entire EP. Both tracks are exemplary practices in dancefloor restraint and are sure to be staples in bags and sticks of discerning DJs for many summers ahead. Another stellar release from Irish atlantean Eoin DJ.

An Avrin returns to Scuffed Recordings with four new originals and a remix from Sonia Calico.

An Avrin has been a firm favourite of the UK label since his 2019 appearance on the Scuffed Presents Vol.3 compilation with the track ‘Cave People’, which saw heavy rotation from DJs like Ross From Friends and rRoxymore. Returning to Scuffed the following year with the ‘Clodhopper’ EP, the London-based producer further developed his wobbly, esoteric sound, which draws extensively from a range of electronic influences.

Since then, An Avrin’s catalogue has become a go-to for under-the-radar club heat, with a string of self-released EPs and an appearance on Bristol’s Slippery Sounds marking him out as a vital name to watch.

The ‘Parisian Pitstop’ EP is his second release on Scuffed, and sees An Avrin building on his previous work while also expanding his horizons into different tempos and styles.

The A-side opens with the one-two of the title track - which is as good a primer on An Avrin’s sound as it’s possible to have - and ‘Stumbler’, both high-impact tracks with raucous breaks bouncing off warped vocals and relentless bass.

On the B-side is ‘Plata’, which builds tension with more melodic elements, before crashing into thunderous kicks and glitchy grooves. An Avrin ups the ante on ‘Is It?’, the last of the four originals on the EP, and the highest tempo of the bunch.

Taiwan-based producer Sonia Calico rounds off the release with her remix of ‘Plata’, a rowdy rework that pits grimey bass up against intense, rolling percussion.

Early DJ support has come from Surgeon, Emerald, Naina, Ciel, and Louise Chen.

Sub Pop and Pissed Jeans mark 15 years of King of Jeans, Pissed Jeans' thunderous third album, with a fresh clear-vinyl pressing, limited to 1,000 copies. If 2005's Shallow was Pissed Jeans coping with moving out of their parents' homes, and 2007's Hope for Men their initial reaction to the mechanical lifestyle of a wage-earner, King of Jeans is their formal and uneasy acceptance of adulthood, by way of one hell of a rock record. Working with renowned producer Alex Newport (who holds a Fudge Tunnel pedigree and has worked with such luminaries as At the Drive-In, The Locust and Sepultura), Pissed Jeans have pushed further into the raw, minimal core of heavy rock music with King of Jeans. Masters of the mundane, beasts of the banal, high priests of the humdrum: these four, white, male high school graduates hardly look further than their own appendages for artistic inspiration, content to execute their own brand of brash and heavy punk music in the Joe Carducci-approved standard rock formation of guitar, bass, drums and vocals. From simple minds and simple fabrics comes this King of Jeans. And there can be only one.

'OK Crooner' the debut LP from French drummer and percussionist Vincent Taeger under his own name (after previous album under his alter ego Tiger Tigre) and his debut on vocals - mixes avant pop with jazz-fink and AOR.

Taeger, who has worked with Air, Damon Albarn, Justice, Lenny Kravitz, Skepta, Tony Allen, Oumou Sangare, Jeff Mills, Archie Shepp and Sampa the Great, during COVID started frantically listening to French vocalists such as Alain Souchon, Alain Chamfort, Richard Gotainer, and Christophe. Inspired by his elders, while not renouncing his attachment to the meticulous arrangements reminiscent of Alain Goraguer's soundtracks, he picked up a pen to jot down snippets of songs to accompany his increasingly sophisticated compositions. Coming from rap, he has a knack for punchlines. Throughout the album, he alternates between risque humour, Gaulish wit, and poetry.

While Vincent Taeger is the chief fireworks maker, playing most of the instruments, some of his longtime collaborators come to support him on a few tracks, forming the Jazz Kamasutra: Ludovic Bruni (bass), Sylvain Daniel (bass), Arnaud Roulin (piano, synth), Fred Soulard (synth), Maud Chabanis (vocals), Bettina Kee (vocals), Mathias Allamane (double bass), Emile Sornin (ondioline), and Remi Sciuto (saxophones). Vincent Taurelle, mixed the abum. Recently, he has worked on albums by Justice, Seun Kuti, Raphael, and Clara Luciani.

The Swiss trio divr debuts on We Jazz on 2 February with their new album "Is This Water". divr is Philipp Eden on keys, Jonas Ruther on drums and Raphael Walser on bass, and they play largely acoustic improvisations which loops without ever quite repeating. Their music swings, but never feels like it’s doing so in response to a fixed, single pulse. The new album is mixed & post-produced by Dan Nicholls (of Y-OTIS).

“We play in multi-directional time. You could hear three different timings, but on the other hand it’s together. We land in the same place. It’s not done with maths, it’s more about entering a flow”, say the band members, based in Basel (Eden) and Zurich (Ruther, Walser), the city where they all met more than 15 years ago.

“It’s a free approach to playing time. We don’t refer to a straight metre. But play around it. We never repeat something exactly, it develops with every turn, there’s always a small difference.”