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Effortlessly charming, inquisitive and generous in spirit: 'Total internal reflection' is the beautifully crafted debut album from DJ ojo, returning to Blank Mind, following his acclaimed 2023 EP ‘Coiled up’.

The vivid sound design, irreverent flourishes and elastic rhythms of his past work remain, yet here he leans further into his enduring love of house and techno music. An impressionistic take on the forms, with a light, considered touch that allows his idiosyncrasies to shine through. There’s a synaesthetic quality here, that implies a gestural play between sound, colour and form.

It is functionality that is the key embrace: eight tracks, two discs, two tracks per side. A cohesive body of work purposefully presented to be played out. These guiding principles complement the uniquely skewed style of ojo: there’s always a groove, but it might trip over itself; there’s always a sense of cohesiveness, but it’s never clear; there’s always a dancefloor, but it’s slippery when wet.

The record features art by photographer Thomas Steineder, who interprets the record visually, by bouncing light through analogue film wrapped around a prism, capturing a reflection turned inward.

With ‘Total internal reflection’, ojo has somehow become even more himself, refining his vision into something playful, profound and enduring.

Cybernetic disco maestro Patrick Cowley graces Dark Entries once again with Hard Ware, an LP of far-out funk and synthpop celebrating what would have been Cowley’s 75th birthday. Best known for his chart-topping disco anthems, Cowley left us with an incredible body of work before his tragic death in 1982 due to AIDS-related illness. Since 2009, Dark Entries has been working with Cowley’s friends and family to uncover the singular artist’s lesser-known sides, including his soundtracks for gay pornographic films, which the label chronicled on compilation albums School Daze, Muscle Up, and Afternooners. Hard Ware presents the closing chapter in a trilogy of unreleased Cowley dancefloor bangers that began with 2022’s heavy-hitting Male Box and was continued with the soul and garage-inflected From Behind in 2024. The most expansive release in said trilogy, Hard Ware delivers ten tracks of pure, uncut Cowley: sultry, psychedelic, sarcastic, and just a bit sleazy. Cowley devotees will delight in “Tech-No,” a sparse instrumental demo version of his epically dystopian “Tech-No-Logical World.” You could soundtrack your next aerobics session with cheeky numbers like “Pajama Party Massacre” or “Shake It Up,” both of which feature Cowley himself on vocals. The frenetic “Big Ass in Motion” is built around samples from Rudy Ray Moore and The Madam’s infamous “Sensuous Black Woman,” an X-rated comedy record that would later feature in classic booty house records. Mid-tempo cosmic groovers are well-represented with jams like “Hellfire” and “Megablue,” which perfectly capture Cowley’s bathhouse-in-outerspace sensibilities. No collection of Cowley’s work would be complete without an interstellar floor-filler, and we’ve got quite a few here, like “Jungle Jump,” which pits whirling beats with dub-laced swirls of synth, or “Spellbinding Lover,” a Donna Summer-indebted melancholic boogie masterpiece that features Sylvester backup singer Jeanie Tracy. Hard Ware closes with the chilling synth-hymn ”Ice Age,” in which Loverde vocalist Peggy Gibbons sings of a coming frosty apocalypse. The story told in “Ice Age” mirrors the coming AIDS crisis and feels like a haunting premonition from Cowley. The record comes in a sleeve with a hand-airbrushed circuitboard-inspired design by Gwenaël Rattke, and includes lyrics as well as liner notes by Andrew Ryce and Peggy Gibbons. Hard Ware is another crucial document of a tremendous talent taken too soon.

Going against the tide of high BPM techno, Adam X's latest release, "Memory Prisms,", is a three-track collection of mid-tempo (128-130 BPM) dark, reflective, and tripped-out bass-quake techno. This is high-end fuel for woofers to rock your body and shock your senses. File Under : Sonic Groove Techno!

Purple marks the third release in the HouseHeadz00 Series, carrying forward the label’s uncompromising underground vision. Featuring It’s All About.., Movin’ On, Body ‘n Soul and Conjure, the record delivers a collection of raw and distinctive cuts made for the dancefloor. Stripped-back rhythms, driving grooves, and a timeless energy stay true to the HouseHeadz spirit, offering selectors pure house music with authenticity at its core.

Mister Joshooa consolidates his delivery on Party store this time with a proper full length EP,
with 3 originals and 2 remixes from Delano Smith and Mass Prod that will keep the dancefloor
busy for a while.
A very solid release that goes from Bass to House to Techno, all solid club tools that will keep
the club busy, five bangers that all evoke the Party Store blueprint feeling: FRESH OUTTA JAIL
Strong of his release on Planet E and his Performances in the world's temple of Techno Music
between his own Detroit and Berlin, Josh is always on point with cutting edge productions that
go straight to the point, to party.
Cosmo is a timeshifting bass tool, so abstract yet so powerful, so empty yet so present that it
will allow you to take your crowd towards the most twisted cuts of club music, perfect to merge
Bass, Minimal House and Techno.
Delano Smith and Mass Prod both deliver a more 4 to the floor/ Club friendly version of Cosmo.
Delano takes the core groove of the track and brings it up on a monstrous Detroit House Tool,
heavy on basseline and chords, it flows like water on day 3. you just wanna play this more and
more, the more you listen to it.
Mass Prod delivers a darker, lower body versions of the title track, a Minimalistic after hour tool
where aerie vocals and percussions are rolling over a primitive House groove that will keep the
dancefloor simmerin for a while.
Adult use is a perfect party track to set the vibe and to get completely weird. Dub Acid Stepper
at his best, proper after party fuel, one to make people stand from couches and blankets in the
morning!
Ketchup popsicle is a pure Detroit Banger with psych vocals and digital acid at his best with full
on trancey effects and percussions, not for the faint of heart, a track that will take you to new
levels of party time!

Terence Fixmer Reissues Two Cult Techno Anthems on Red 10 inch Vinyl

Techno pioneer Terence Fixmer re-releases two of his most iconic tracks - Electrostatic and Electric Vision - now remastered for a more contemporary and powerful sound, and pressed on a limited edition 10 inch red vinyl.

Originally released on Gigolo Records in the late 90s and early 2000s, both tracks quickly became underground anthems. Played by legendary DJs such as Dave Clarke, Sven Vath, and many others, they were also named Tracks of the Year by renowned techno publications like Groove magazine.

With these two groundbreaking cuts, Terence Fixmer helped open a bold new chapter in the history of techno - giving birth to Techno Body Music (TBM), a genre blending the raw, industrial force of EBM with the driving energy of techno. Electrostatic, in particular, is considered a foundational track of this hybrid style.

Now regarded as true techno classics, Electrostatic and Electric Vision have stood the test of time and are still played regularly by DJs worldwide, continuing to energize dancefloors decades after their release.


This is the first official repress in over 20 years, and the first time these two cult tracks appear together on one record - sharper, louder, and more essential than ever.

Remastered by Endrik Schroeder

Tom Carruthers returns on Syncrophone with Move My Body, his second EP delivering four raw, club-ready cuts with sharp grooves and a no-frills old-school touch.

Providing more prolific dance floor energy this winter are Italian house pushers Black Box Records, a carefully curated VA of feel good vibe from producers Ruff Stuff, Floska, label founder Vito Fattore, and the eclectic sounds of, DJ GLC. Available on vinyl this Oktober.

Kicking off proceedings is Berlin based Italian, Ruff Stuff. A killer cut, with ice cold drum arrangement which becomes one with the playful chords which propel the energy of the ‘Son Of Will’ track, the female vocal sample sprinkled in for some added pleasure. Young Italian trio Floska deliver ‘Get Up & Dance’ dreamy and mellow sounds on a lo-fi tip, almost seven minutes of pure bliss.

The brain behind Black Box,Vito Fattore, steps up for the B1 as any leader should. Clinical dance floor moods, laced with emotion. Magical pads and synths work their way around the funk laden body of the track, explosive summer time feelings. Switching things up for the closing track is DJ GLC, with a deeper and darker energy than the other three track. Aptly entitled ’Suspense’ mechanical whirrs carry the track, as broken drums burst through the seams of the record. A trip through murky waters that compliments the EP in great fashion.

Another display of zestful house music from a blossoming label, sure to be a winner with tastemakers and groove explorers alike. One to watch out for in the coming periods as Black Box Records continue to supply you with what you need.

With their musical roots deeply immersed in the fertile soil of Afro-American music, the Buttshakers have found a new direction for their nostalgia-heavy soul music. With Lessons In Love, their third album on Underdog Records, their early heartaches and furies have faded in favor of a more composed harmony – a sound enveloped in love and soaked in the blues. Guided by their singer Ciara Thompson, the Buttshakers have taken a more intimate path, whose compass, in the chaos of emotions and the modern world, points only in one direction: the light.



Seen from the sky, the view appears limitless. Accentuated by the sun, the ochre and sandy hues of the open road only reinforce this feeling of immensity. The sky stretches and the green stands out in striking contrast. In lighter tones, a road is drawn -- without bends or contours. This is the worn and weary road of soul music, which The Buttshakers explore on each album in new and unique ways. Soul music – a rare place to find a French band.

Vast, the musical direction could have taken them to lighter pastures. Yet the Buttshakers chose to evolve in a different way; to take a heavier load. Two paths – one sparked by social unrest, the other purely sentimental, Lessons In Love explores the deep roots of soul music, in the steps of Curtis Mayfield or Al Green. It is here that the heart and mind cross paths, merge, and become one. A weary road -- that brings together the agitation of a world where good intentions never rise above the level of digital outrage, and a faith in love which, however it manifests and expresses itself, remains the only truth that never loses its power.



Less rage and more compassion, it is through the haunting words and now tempered inflection of Ciara Thompson's voice, which opens to distinct emotions and perspectives, that the listener is guided. With its gaze fixed on the horizon, the acoustic guitar of Gotta Believe invites us on an intimate stroll through the open plains, while Dream On carries us away with a clavinet riff and a possessed saxophone; reconnecting the electric heat and neurosis of a city full of dreams. The senses are moved by the conjuring potion of the guitar which distills throughout Troubled Waters; the body is brought back into a visceral dance by the keys and brass section that are put to the test by Sure As Sin and its irrepressible rhythm. Passing through clouds of dust and sand has left a bluesy imprint on their groove: the miles travelled became hundreds, then thousands.



All of this leaves the listener bewitched by the halo of resilience that now surrounds Ciara's performance, as the ten tracks let the light fade. But certainly not hope in a better day. Like the sunflower that always lifts its head towards the sun’s rays, the Buttshakers continue to resource their sounds in the deep roots of soul music. Into the rich layers of African-American music of the 60s and 70s, The Buttshakers capture the spirit as much as the musical aesthetics of the epoch. A sound that reaches into the meanderings of the soul, bringing light to dark places and hope for all. A sound for the most parched of hearts, living in a damaged world, Lessons In Love confirms that even the tiniest beam of light can illuminate one’s path.

"Pretty Close", Ethel Lindsey's debut LP, marks the beginning of a new musical journey, showcasing the talent and heartfelt nostalgia of this gifted singer-songwriter. Deeply rooted in the sound and spirit of the 1970s, her work draws from the golden age of Soul, Funk, Disco, and AOR, blending these genres with elegance and authenticity. Her songwriting and vocal delivery are so true to the era that one could easily imagine this album emerging straight from a California studio in 1976.

Entirely composed, written, and performed by Ethel Lindsey, Pretty Close is a deeply personal and cohesive body of work. From lush harmonies to groove-driven arrangements, the album captures the warmth and depth of vintage recordings while offering a fresh and intimate take on these timeless sounds.

Once again, Favorite Recordings brings its signature dedication to the project, ensuring every step of the process—from production to final mix—remains faithful to the sonic and aesthetic codes of the era. The album was produced using a maximum of vintage analog equipment, staying true to the texture and character of original 70s productions.

This is not merely a nostalgic tribute—it’s a sincere continuation of a musical tradition. With a deep respect for the past and a forward-thinking spirit, Ethel Lindsey breathes new life into classic genres, reaffirming their relevance in today’s musical landscape.

As Ethel herself puts it:
"The songs on this album offer but a fleeting glimpse into the whimsical, melodic reveries that may have danced through the mind of a young girl growing up in the northeastern suburbs of Paris, France during the early to mid-1980s. They are, perhaps, the earliest echoes of a fraternal musical upbringing—an inheritance both consciously absorbed and unconsciously imprinted—shaped by shared moments, half-remembered sounds, and the mysterious alchemy of childhood imagination. This collection is, in essence, a first distillation of that early inner world: playful, imperfect, sincere."

Following the success of the 12” “Trip To Your Mind (The Reworks)”—where Delfonic and LTJ Xperience both brought their own magic to Hudson People’s disco/jazz-funk anthem—we’re back with a fresh twist: DJ Friction steps in for an official 7” rework, breathing new life into this cult classic in his own unmistakable style.

For those who’ve been following the story, you know “Trip To Your Mind” is a true favorite among DJs and collectors since decades, from its creative inception by the writer Reginald Hudson with the GI funk band Body Heat, to the original recording taking place in the late 70s in London that eventually paved the way for disco lovers to produce this recent string of reworks.

Where the 12” reworks stretched out the groove with extended intros and club-friendly builds, Friction’s version keeps things tight and energetic. He adds his own drums, claps, synth touches, and some new vocal layers—combining the standout parts from both the original mix and the classic UK remix. The result is a punchy new take that’s perfect for DJs who want maximum impact in a short format, but still want all the funk and psychedelic flavor that’s made this song a dancefloor staple for decades.

And for collectors? The original 7” of “Trip To Your Mind” is notoriously hard to find—and pricey when it turns up. This new release finally makes it easy to spin a fresh, fully licensed version on 7” wax, expertly mastered for today’s systems.

Whether you were hooked by the Delfonic or LTJ Xperience edits, or you’re just discovering this tune for the first time, DJ Friction’s rework is a natural next step in the ongoing journey of “Trip To Your Mind.

With Liquid Body, Matteo Point makes his debut on Incoherent Debts with an EP that combines raw energy and emotional intensity. Hypnotic basslines, magnetic vocal samples and driving grooves shape five tracks suspended between the dancefloor and inner reflection, revealing a sound that is both physical and deeply emotive.

The ninth installment in the MEGABREAKZ series dives headfirst into the raw energy of early industrial. A rhythmic discharge straight from the golden era of industrial new beat and industrial dub: rusted percussion, toxic delays, and sweat-drenched basslines. Velax channels the raw spirit of Chicago’s most abrasive scene, Wax Trax!, where beats were machines and noise had a body. But here, everything is filtered through the dub haze of the UK’s early counter-scene, with fractured echoes in the style of Keith LeBlanc, crafting the ideal soundtrack for a crumbling factory. Grit, groove, and distortion as the only possible language. Presented in ONE-OFF truly limited edition of 300 copies lacquered pressed on 180 gr. high quality solid BLACK vinyl.

This is the fourth volume in the collection dedicated to the Arlecchino nightclub in Santa Maria Codifiume, in the province of Ferrara. It's once again a double-vinyl set that gathers the best of Afro, Funky, Rare Groove, and Black Music, as played at the club by resident DJs Giancarlo Lelli, DJ Ghello, and DJ Frank.

Toko's in-house all-star Si Brad brings forth three fresh jams for the long running UK institution, ensuring record bags are festival fit and nightclub-ready for party season.

Opening with a glitzy, contemporary disco jam, 'Doublestar' provides wide-screen glitterball action with a dazzling instrumental track, busy with key changes and chord progressions that'd make Patrick Adams blush. Sure to have fellow peers like Another Taste and Perpetual Singers checking their wing mirrors, the track is rich with musical decadence - orchestral strings, punchy synth licks and frenetic live bass all shining through this highly dynamic arrangement.

'Compress' moves swiftly into beefy house territory; Si's patented full fat, cushion soft bottom end providing just the low frequency support for a wide array of warehouse-ready bleeps, vocal snips and rave motifs set to cause a whole manner of chaos and confusion come 2AM in the club. A master of functional intricacy, Brad's multi-layered compositions thread together more elements than other producers would care to consider, manifesting almost effortless and involuntary body movement which belies the complexity of the track and is sure to have the dancefloor in a spin.

Concluding with a beautiful piece of Balearic-boogie-beatdown, and with Attaboy muscling in on proceedings; 'Faro Sunset's dreamy and expansive moods cascade over a loose, conga-laden groove glued to the spot with a rugged b-line. Instantly conjuring memories of grilled calamari and poolside play, and sure to garner repeat plays across the familiar party paradises of the Adriatics and beyond; it finds the crew dialling into a deliciously languid vibe that's in contrast to the immediate urgency of the preceding tracks yet retains, assuredly, the sonic trademarks of the producer's hand.

Another unmissable addition to Toko's storied catalogue!

Step into the emotional landscapes of Saudade’s new EP Expensive Noise, a multi-textured journey where analog machines speak louder than words. Each track captures a different state of mind, blending depth and groove with raw, honest sound design. The EP opens with “Expensive Noise” — direct, grounded, and hypnotic. No detours, no hesitation — just raw analog power locking into a loop with magnetic tension. The groove builds steadily, shifting your state of mind as the rhythm takes hold. “Anyway” brings a dreamy, bittersweet touch. Exclusive to vinyl, this extended version unfolds like a teenage memory you never shared — warm, nostalgic, somewhere between electro and pop, glowing softly from within. “Colored Life” dives into detailed minimal deep house territory. Rounded and generous, its sound design sculpts soft clouds of melodies against crisp, syncopated snares — floating between dream and presence, like a cushion made of rhythm and light. “Porte de la Villette 45” echoes the EP’s birthplace — a raw area near the Parisian périphérique, where engines roar, people hustle, and concrete weighs heavy. Yet within this urban friction stands Studio Villette 45 — a funky, soulful shelter where the machines find their groove. The record closes on “Cœur” (heart in French) — a stripped-down, heartfelt outro. Just a Prophet 5 pad, no tricks. A moment of vulnerability, stillness, and truth — as if the music had finally dropped its armor. Between analog heat and emotional honesty, Expensive Noise is Saudade at his most sincere — building bridges between power and softness, body and soul, sound and silence.

Hudd Traxx makes label history with its first-ever full-length album, Dial Me In, from long-time affiliate Iron Curtis. Aptly, if it wasn’t going to be label boss Eddie Leader, Curtis is the natural choice — having contributed more tracks across more releases than any other artist in the label’s history.

This 6-track vinyl sampler comes with a download code for the full 10-track album. Across the set, Curtis delivers a rich and varied journey through deep house, ambient textures, and eclectic grooves, flowing effortlessly from club-ready jams to moments made for home listening.

A landmark release for Hudd Traxx — diverse, soulful, and built for both the dancefloor and beyond.

It was the 90s. Paris had the blues, French rap was beginning its slow rise, and a new musical genre was emerging: Acid Jazz. Imported from England by DJ Gilles Peterson, this groovy style blended 70s funk with a certain idea of jazz tailored for the dancefloor. Its heroes were Galliano, Brand New Heavies, Incognito, and the James Taylor Quartet. Jamiroquai topped the charts, MC Solaar recorded with Urban Species, and suddenly, France was swept up in the swing whirlwind. Starting in 1993, Parisian clubs embraced this union of jazz and groove, and in 1994, a compilation was released: Paris Groove Up. Around ten groups delivered the French version of this British style: Mellowman, Mad In Paris, Vercoquin, Ready Made... and Dis Bonjour À La Dame. The band wasn’t new—their roots went back to the late 80s, when bassist Marc Israël brought together a brass section and some seasoned musicians. But the real beginning of DBALD came in 1992 with the arrival of singer Sital. "Christophe Denis joined on guitar and songwriting. In 1993, we opened for Jamiroquai and Maceo Parker, and that’s when the major labels interested in the acid jazz market started noticing us," recalls Marc. Their track Chris’tal, the centerpiece of the compilation, was released as a single, and Dis Bonjour À La Dame's album began production in late 1994 in London, at Roundhouse Studio. “We must’ve been among the last sessions there—it was demolished shortly after. It was a very 70s studio, with old gear, a Fender Rhodes, everything was vintage! We recorded for a month, all playing together live, then added the brass and finally Sital’s vocals. We were lucky to have two exceptional backing singers, Sarah Brown and Mark Anthoni, who worked with Incognito and Urban Species.” The self-titled album came out in early 1995, and it had all the ingredients of a hidden funky gem from the 90s: Hey Mama with its ironclad groove, the irresistible instrumental Sheherazade Groove opening the record, Soul Body with its R\&B sensuality... The hip-hop touch came courtesy of Lee Rick’s, the MC from Mellowman, who laid down rhymes on Hall Blues. The brass section was on fire, the bass went wild, and Sital added a sensual spark to the whole thing. In short, a solid album produced by Fred Versailles (producer of NTM’s first album) and mixed by Paul Borg (Urban Species, UFO, -M-, Mory Kanté), a testament to a time when big funky bands made Paris groove—with Dis Bonjour À La Dame leading the charge. Nearly thirty years later, it’s time to (re)discover DBALD.

New Digital Fidelity steps up with his ‘For The People’ EP on Four Framed Music this september, delivering four standout original cuts that showcase his deep, groove-driven signature sound.

Paolo Aniello aka New Digital Fidelity is a London-based producer and DJ originally from Bari, Italy. Deeply rooted in deep and Detroit house, he made his vinyl debut in 2011 as Peter JD and later co-founded a Detroit techno label with Nico Lahs. Since launching NDF in 2017, he’s released on Snuff Trax, Moods & Grooves, and more, collaborating with artists like Chez Damier, Fred P, and Byron the Aquarius. His music has been featured on HÖR, Balamii, Rinse FM, and NTS. In 2023, he founded Scopic Records, home to his latest EPs and remixes for legends like Hanna.

With For The People, New Digital Fidelity delivers a timeless EP packed with soulful house grooves and club-driven energy. The A-side opens with Believe It, an uplifting house track full of character, driven by a snappy groove and a powerful vocal sample that pulls you straight into the vibe. A soulful statement that sets the tone from the get-go. Next up is In Love With You, a deep and sultry roller where a sensual vocal meets delicate melodic layers. This one breathes emotion and late-night intimacy, perfect for the more introspective moments in a set.

On the B-side, the EP shifts clearly into more club-focused territory. Move Your Body is a straight-up floorfiller with crisp percussion, a hypnotic bassline, and a stripped-back vocal hook that sticks with you. Finally, Step Up closes the record with punch and attitude, a raw groove laced with jackin’ energy, making it the perfect tool for peak-time or late-night sessions.

Slowly yet firmly blooming into focus, An Unfinished Rose is the new album from Australian duo Troth.

This is their first since relocating to Hobart, Tasmania and their introduction to Night School Records. With a detailed web of past releases on labels A Colourful Storm, Mammas Mysteriska Jukebox, Knekelhuis and Bowman’s own Altered States Tapes imprint, An Unfinished Rose is the group’s most realised and composed work thus far. While still drawing on the improvisatory and DIY practices that informed Troth’s beginnings, it points to a new incarnation of the duo’s music; an intentional language emerging from the fog of obfuscation and mists of uncertainty.

Over these 9 meditations on change, acceptance, renewal and rebirth, An Unfinished Rose finds Amelia Besseny and Cooper Bowman peeling back some of the roughhewn architecture that defined their earlier releases to reveal a masterful - if auto-didactic - use of space and melody. Composition and improvisation compliment and feed each other throughout, with locked-loop earworms providing the springboard for lines of clarinet or synth melody, and the negative space between chord clusters giving ample room for Besseny’s most confident vocal performances to date. Shaving off a little of the defining dissonance and tape compression of old reveals Troth’s music in radiant daylight, humbly accepting of its place in the world while yearning for better, more sympathetic modes of living. Leaning more heavily on acoustic instrumentation and post-production processes than previously, the result is a transcendent body of work infused with an almost zen-like presence.

Troth’s music exists in the border between forming and becoming, its goal to project a kind of preternatural beauty, leaving interpretation open to the listener. Field recordings, happenstance and improvisation may provide seeds for the duo’s compositions, particularly on Side A, but there is a deft touch of songcraft on show. Loam Loom Leaf Litter opens An Unfinished Rose, directly referencing natural cycles of life, death and regeneration, before the blissed-out drum machine groove of Gold Plum continues a discussion concerning the totality of nature and one’s place in it. Besseny’s vocal, swelling like an ocean churn in duet with itself is adorned with synthesised harp and a revolving synth pattern, conjuring plumes of medieval smoke. Thistle’s rounded, bass-heavy drums, nodding to the vast echo of dub, is a relatively new terrain for Troth. It’s propulsive and thumping, pulsing with a meaning and symbolism consistent with Troth’s past work, referenced overtly in Bessey’s lyrics - “Say it too much and it loses its meaning…”. Similarly, the sprawling modern-classical suite, Tides Reflected In Her Eyes, is intentional in its lyrical themes while traversing new ground, revelling in layers of bowed cello and vocal intonations. Side B’s 4 tracks feel like Troth’s most thoroughly accessible and affecting music to date. Leaning into their own detoured version of Synth Pop, Cocoonist explores downtempoisms via a crunchy low frequency synth, and dream-like, fuzzy trip-hop modalities, not unlike Besseny and Bowman’s other group, Th Blisks. Following on, Myrtle Mystes is an open and searching DIY pop song, forged out of drum machine, bass guitar and cello. (An) Unfinished Rose’s title-track is a clear stand-out, built upon an evocative rhythm sample that appears to change emotional resonance with each undulating repetition. Its cascading waves of affect, interjected with a subtle breeze of synth, bowed instrumentation and soaring, densely-layered vocals.

An Unfinished Rose is enveloping, warm, forgiving. Difficult, yet retaining a unique beauty. Troth’s music aims to celebrate the duo;s shared experiences of being in the world, despite the complexity often surrounding us all. Theirs is a message of hope and perseverance, learning and patience.

Berlin techno talent Regent channels his signature depth and drive into a new outing for MALoR Records. With each release since his inception in 2020, he demonstrates the versatility of his sound and his ability to convey profound narratives across a spectrum of techno sub styles.

After contributing a standout track to the label's Purveyors Of The Groove Vol. 3 compilation in 2023, he now returns with a highly cerebral yet anthemic and dance floor-destined 5-tracker EP: Cratea.

The A-side kicks off with the EP's standout cut, 'Refiction', a sinister, forward-marching piece laced with spooky, psychedelic vocals and dripping in LFOs and mind-boggling soundscapes.

It's followed by the title track 'Cratea', shaped by steady bleeps and an evolving, echo-drenched synth that bounces erratically from start to finish, driven forward by thick claps and floaty rides.

On the flip, 'Origins' delivers a steady, hypnotic tool built on organic bass sounds, gnarly percussion, and wet vocal chops, peaking with four-to-the-floor claps that are sure to lock in a busy dance floor.

'Null Model' follows with a signature Regent groove, fusing driving 909 drums with a clever interplay of short synth stabs and warped-out voices, resulting in a deeply trippy, almost paranoid atmosphere.

Closing the record is 'Stealthless', a stripped-back yet uplifting techno tool, offering moments of synth euphoria and harmony while remaining deliberately restrained and minimal by design.

A versatile release made for different moments in the night, designed to guide dance floors through profound, body-moving journeys.
Best served on powerful sound-systems.

Released during the late 1970's Disco era, Milton Wright's sophomore long player has always stood out as a singular, innovative example of the deepest, rarest grooves known to underground Soul lovers all over the globe. This often overlooked body of work has found a whole new audience who revisited the man's work retrospectively, pushing the LP into the domain of "holy grail" status amongst Black music lovers and Funk fanatics. "Spaced" has been at the top of the wants lists of serious music lovers for decades, often unattainable and commanding stellar collectors prices on-line, sometimes fetching amounts of upwards of £400. This unique LP could be perceived as being Wright's most personal work, tragically overshadowed by the burgeoning successes of his then label mates on Miami's Alston Records imprint. The sheer craftsmanship and songwriting prowess on show is undeniable, as is the top level musicianship and production, sounding ridiculously fresh almost some 40 years later. Above Board distribution has collaborated with Alston / TK Records to ensure the quality of this fully legitimate repress of this long lost Soul / Funk classic has been maintained. Remastered, reissued and represented with the full cooperation of the license holders for 2016. Do not pass up the chance to own a true gem, a pivotal, lost LP like "Spaced", now made available again to be enjoyed by all. "Magic Music".

Berlin's Scheermann debuts on Mutual Rytm with deeply personal EP, 'Viciosa'.

Scheermann is at the heart of the Berlin underground as a DJ/producer, but also working behind the scenes at the Intakt Berlin vinyl pressing plant, where he first met Mutual Rytm founder SHDW. As a resident of the Lorem Ipsum party series, he delivers cultured and compelling grooves, and is also an active member of the Wesertekk collective - supporting and pushing club culture to the forefront in more rural areas. His music comes from a deeply personal place, never chasing hype or headlines, and is usually found at home on his own imprint, SAMMLER. This new EP marks his first appearance away from the label as he unveils a collection of records crafted over five years, with each track representing different moments in his life.

'Viciosa' kicks off with paranoid vocals panning about as swinging, warehouse-ready drums pound heavily below. The gritty synth craft adds plenty of texture as filters build the vibe. 'Placid Sin' is even more intense with unresolved synths tripping you in a loopy state while coarse percussion and cantering drums march on. 'Don't Care' is a rave-ready cut that injects your soul with urgent synth energy over more minimal and moody drums. 'Kano' brings a more elastic rhythm with dubby undercurrents and sleek sonar pulses infusing it with mystery, while 'Reika' is a nimble cut with icy hi hats and curious synth notes layering in late night suspense. First digital bonus 'Resoclap' is a heavyweight swinger with dark, groaning voices, before the second digital bonus 'Mizu' provides a speedy and supple workout for body and mind.

Scheermann 'Viciosa' lands on Mutual Rytm on 22nd August 2025.

The 10th release on Frenzy marks a milestone, and we're celebrating it with a true legend at the helm.

We're thrilled to welcome Marco Bailey to the label, a name deeply woven into the fabric of techno for decades. His latest work, the "Hollow Cry EP," is a six-track statement reflecting both his legacy and continued evolution as an artist.

Across four original tracks, Marco channels the tension, urgency, and emotional gravity that have defined his sound over the years. From gritty low-end power to cinematic builds and hypnotic repetition, these tracks are built with intent - to move bodies, challenge minds, and hold the floor in their grip.

The journey doesn't end there. We've brought in two key remixers to reinterpret Bailey's vision through their own lenses: The Advent, an undisputed cornerstone of the genre, delivers a groove-laced rework that's equal parts punch and finesse - a masterclass from a true pioneer; and Kaiser, one of the most distinctive voices in today's generation of techno artists, strips things down and dials up the pressure with a deep, percussive take that hits with precision.

We're proud to host Marco Bailey for this special chapter in the Frenzy story, and we invite you to dive deep into this powerful body of work.

"Hollow Cry EP" is built for the late nights, the flashing strobes, for those who know.

2025 Repress
L.F.T. returns to Mechatronica with his unique, signature blend of new wave and breakbeat influenced electro for the mind, body and floor. Boldly shaped by distorted drum machines, gut-wrenching grooves and haunting vocal chops, the KeyGenerator EP comes backed by an explosive IMOGEN remix and an occult collaboration with Cardinal & Nun. A spellbinding record on its own, and another crystal clear testament to L.F.T.s razor sharp sonic vision and ability to generate new styles from the past, present and future.

Originally released following his acclaimed sophomore album, HYBRIDISM finds Ecuadorian producer Nicola Cruz at the height of his exploratory powers. Now reissued on limited editon green vinyl, this expansive EP re-emerges with renewed relevance—blending North African rhythms, ethereal Persian motifs, and vocal fragments that evoke both ancient traditions and imagined worlds. A contemporary take on global exotica, HYBRIDISM is a vital entry in Cruz’s ever-evolving sonic journey.

'Aima’, named after the refrain sung by Igbo girls from Nigeria, creates the illusion that you’ve dusted off a lost LP. The aesthetic details recall expertly produced French exotica from the 70s, an overall feeling of warmth and character rarely pulled off with such panache.

‘Naeku,' in Cruz’s words, is "a sorrowful song in minor tonalities, but with a warrior energy, strength and forward vision: a soul departs, but a new one arrives in the name of Naeku, a maasai child. Not all grief needs to be a suffering; a feeling which I can relate to the place I come from with a Quechua word: Llaquilla - triste, pero feliz (sad, but happy). As always, the 303 adds that heart touching feeling.” If there’s a template for Multi Culti’s ethos, Cruz has synthesized the formula: Masai lamentation filtered through Quechua wisdom with a touch of 303 for the soul.

'Drom Tradisie' is a nostalgic vignette that captures the fantasy of a scenic horizon on a lost beach, a portrait done with the FM domain of synths that somehow associates with tropical imagery.

'Third Eye Dub’ takes things deeper, exploring the fractal realm of concentration, a point where the Oud (played by Nasiri) acts on the pineal gland. This inward journey through the cavernous depths of the subconscious sails on a smooth modular groove that transports the listener across this psychic expanse, a filigree of Persian harmonies (in Shur, to be exact) tracing outlines in the dark.

Finally, 'Kawe’s Dream’ ventures even further into the imaginary spaces of the mind. It is an aural reconstruction of the Tibetan Bardo Thodol, or ‘Book of the Dead’, a sacred text that guides the spirit through the passage out of the body. In Nicola’s words "To paint that depth, I had these Tibetan chants in mind, that I ended up crafting with Ableton's vocoder over a piece of Ayan’s vocals (sung in a made-up language). A few notes, and it gave the gravity I was looking for in the song.” Stuff that only a producer as capable as Cruz could pull off.

Hybridism’s five tracks are sonically diverse, yet all possess an ephemeral quality, a pastoral, transitory feeling that travels through the music - we listen to the sounds pass us by, we might even catch a hook or two, but the feeling is of sand running through our hands, deep, elusive, beautiful.

Originally released on a rare 1971 album by the obscure band Body And Soul, which now fetches hundreds of dollars, these two tracks are available for the first time ever on 45 vinyl. A must-have for collectors and fans of classic soul and funk.

The A-side, "In the Beginning," blends rich funk grooves with soulful melodies that evoke the iconic arrangements of Sly Stone. On the B-side, Body & Soul delivers a fresh, funky rendition of Laura Nyro's timeless "Stone Soul Picnic."

Available now on Rocafort Records – don't miss out!

A nocturnal ride through the magnetic waves of an imaginary club that never sleeps, where groove becomes ritual and the dancefloor an extension of the body. Francisco & Cosmo Dance – aka Francesco De Bellis and Cosimo Mandorino – orchestrate a mechanical and naif dance between man and machine, where synths chase each other and drum machines dictate tight, unrelenting beats. “Go Go Dance” is a concentrated dose of analog groove, electronic funk, no-wave pulses, and retro-futurism.

The Extended Mix transcends radio boundaries, diving into a hypnotic, fluid, body-driven dimension: a sonic tide echoing cosmic italo, primitive house, and off-kilter disco, shaping a soundscape for dancefloors from another dimension.

The House Mix, finely edited by Whodamanny, is a manifesto for the floor: pure rhythmic dynamite, made to ignite bodies and let them vibrate freely. A shared and refined vision of house music, where instinct and style fuse into a single voice.

“Go Go Dance” doesn’t aim studio perfection; it craves sensory truth – the kind born of urgency, space, and the pleasure of repetition. An anthem to the most authentic and lived-in club culture, where music becomes sweat, fantasy, and freedom once again.

Francis Bebey was a visionary who explored the intersection of African traditions and global music long before it became a global trend. Born in Cameroon, Bebey's sound was an eclectic blend of his rich cultural heritage and his deep exploration of modern music, spanning genres from traditional folk and jazz to funk and electronic experimentation. As an artist, Bebey was ahead of his time, using his unique voice and instruments to forge new paths for African music to be heard worldwide. His legacy is not just in the music he created but in the way he opened doors for the global recognition of African artists, influencing generations of musicians, producers, and fans alike.

This release marks an exciting moment, as we introduce remixes of bebeys iconic productions by contemporary electronic producers, giving new life through creative re imaginings.

Tracks:

Le Grand Soleil De Dieu (Psychemagik Remix): The UK-based musical duo are known for their eclectic blend of electronic music, psychedelic rock and mystical global sounds. Formed by Danny McLewin and Tommy McLewin, the duo has carved out a unique niche within the global music scene though their intricate arrangements. Their Remixes and Collaborations have been with artists like Fleetwood Mac, Tame Impala, and Hercules & Love Affair. Their psychedelic dub remix has otherworldly qualities, with dreamy atmospheres and bouncing baselines throughout this brilliant opening track.

Guinee (Turbotito Edit): The Berlin-based DJ and producer known for his infectious blend of house, disco, and funk. With a knack for smooth, groovy beats and a deep love for melody, Turbotito's music brings a fresh, energetic vibe to the dance floor. On this track, he effortlessly re-imagines and elevates the world of Guinee to match his signature sound. A combination of a great pulsing base line, ethereal vocals and bird sound effects incorporated into the percussion makes this track an absolute stand out.

Agatha (Voilaaa Remix): Bruno "Patchworks" Hovart from Lyon is the brains behind the Voilaaa project. Fusing soulful grooves, funk, and disco with an unmistakable French touch, Voilaaa creates infectious, feel-good rhythms that blend classic and contemporary influences. In this track we find the first big hook of the album vocally, coupled with Bebey's lively humour in spoken French on top of joyous instrumentation. The smooth vocals, catchy melodies, and vibrant arrangements, bring a fresh energy to the original hit track - a brilliant homage.

Forest Nativity (Red Axes Edit): Red Axes are a dynamic electronic music duo from Tel Aviv, blending disco, house, and psychedelic influences into infectious, genre-defying tracks. Known for their unique sound, warm analog textures, and hypnotic rhythms, Niv Arzi and Dori Simao craft music that moves both the body and the mind. Forest Nativity arrives as a full circle closer, incorporating some of the most authentic African instruments such as a Balafon, an instrument similar to a xylophone and a Djembe, a hand drum central to many West African traditions. The 7 minute track is guaranteed to take you on a fascinating journey through Bebey's culture and livelihood.

Scoville Records returns with the long awaited second entry into its catalog from rising talent Pily. Serving up 3 spicy cuts dripping with moody grooves guaranteed to make you sweat. On the remix, Mario Liberti brings a psychedelic breakbeat-infused take, simmering with late-night tension & dancefloor drive.

Romanian groove technician SEPP lands on _NRV with a trio of high-powered, floor-primed cuts. 'Feeling Ma Bass' opens up with weighty low-end pressure and a hypnotic pulse that locks you in early. 'Body Language' twists with crisp percussion and a woozy sense of movement, keeping tension tight throughout. 'Do You Love Me’ dips into moodier territory, with dusty textures and a vocal loop that cuts just enough to keep the floor leaning in.

SAISEI founder Junki Inoue continues his vital archival work uncovering the riches of Japan’s distinctive electronic music scene and bringing them to new audiences around the world.

HERO U.D.A. aka Hiroyoshi Udaka is not someone you can easily google, but he’s sure lived a life worth retelling. His story starts back in the late 80s when, inspired by the acid house emanating from the UK — during what was fondly christened the Second Summer of Love — he picked up DJing and made the move from Japan to London. Throughout the 90s he DJed at underground techno institutions like London’s The End, CLUB UK and Silver Fish, as well as at the infamous Tribal Gathering raves, periodically returning to Japan to support techno greats like Colin Dale, Mad Mike, Suburban Knight and D. Wynn on tour.

The tracks on this EP, previously unreleased except for one, were all recorded after Udaka moved back from London to Tokyo, between 2002 and 2005. Yet they sound strikingly modern, drawing on a rich range of sounds that have come back round again two decades later: broken beat, acid jazz, dub and breaks. Deceptively simple grooves are given depth by layers of textures and micro samples, for example the surface noise on ‘On The Way’ that glues together an otherwise sparse skeleton of dubby pads and body popping drums. ‘Mature Missile’, ‘So Good’ and ‘Night Driver’ employ raw broken beat templates with acid accents, whimsical melodies and vocal interjections for a playful mood. ‘Sin City’ takes a darker turn, off-key piano hits and plunging bass adding to the wonkiness. The EP closes with a wiggly vignette, ‘222AM’, reminiscent of early 00s contemporaries like Mouse On Mars. Now these hidden treasures from Udaka’s archive gain a new life on SAISEI.

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SAISEI is a Japanese word which translates to ‘reproduction’ and ‘to play’ (as in playing records). Japanese culture is widely known for its traditional nature just as much as it is for being forward into the future and this label’s concept does justice to exactly that. Having started digging for records as early as 16 years old, Junki Inoue delved into productions from 1990s Japan to uncover these native gems. SAISEI’s core concept is to recapture and reintroduce unique pieces of Japanese electronic music onto vinyl, to an audience it never reached before as most of this music was only released in Japan.


b A2. So Good Acid Funk

Hitting release number three, Slush Records remaster and reissue Spacer IV aka James Zeiter’s sought-after 1997 EP on Pleasure Records. The man behind a slew of lauded records under a variety of different aliases, his sound is one that is cherished for orbiting the spheres of progressive trance and atmospheric dub techno. This four-track EP, however, saw James venture into unchartered territory, exploring a more melodic, house-tinted spectrum, before flipping back into the progressive techno-trance underbelly.

Having started life in 1995, Spacer IV had already gone from the leagues of limited white labels, to being the name stamped on one of Pleasure’s biggest-selling records by the time this EP came out. With only 195 white labels of his first record ARC 1/ARC 2 pressed, a copy was passed to Pete Robinson at Robs Records. ‘ARC 2’ was plucked from that release, supplemented with a new cut ‘ARC 3’ and given a proper pressing on Robs Records offshoot label Pleasure to notable success.

Fast forward to 1997 and James chose to depart the trance-infused techno sound of those first releases. Absorbing elements by osmosis, this EP sees James dipping his toes into fresh waters. Using what limited hardware he had available, including an Akai S950 sampler, Ensoniq ESQ-1 and Novation Bass Station 1, James laid down four distinctive and versatile club cuts.

‘Sirocco’ opens the EP, a tingling hit of endorphins that only the most timeless of tracks can elicit. Echoing pads feed acid murmurings, that sit atop dusty breakbeats and rattling sub-bass. An aural exploration, that is equal parts ethereal and empowering, taking cues from breaks, ambient, chill out and house. It’s one of those rare tracks that has the power to float you away or fuel your buzz, giving a healthy tug on the heartstrings in the process.

‘Mono’ follows, merging heads-down dancefloors with the embrace of warmer climates. It’s deep and Detroit-infused yet bolstered by a dream house bassline straight out of the Italian riviera. A dose of eyes-closed euphoria that hits just right.

The flipside sees James in more familiar territory with ‘Jetson’ and ‘Dust’. The former is a hit of space-age progressive house. Trippy, hypnotising, driving goodness, showcasing James’ ability to lock your body into a groove, yet send your mind to another world. The latter rounds out the EP, serving up an acid-swirling club stomper, forever building in intensity before dropping you into the vacuum of deep space.

De:tuned welcomes the Purveyor of Fine Funk, Midwest house and techno originator Dan Curtin, to the label with his first new album in 15 years entitled 'The 4 Lights'. The now Berlin-based DJ and producer channels his inner DC and opens up his soul on this exceptional eight-track LP. Dan showcases his unique take on techno and early 90s influences rise to the surface. The result is an in-depth masterclass of cosmic funk, spaced-out vibes and warm pads that stimulate the mind, while the distinctive groove moves your body. Stay tuned!

Archeo Recordings is a record label. Old, lost, obscure and forgotten gems and a boundless focus on the new Balearic scene for a wider audience of collectors, DJs and music lovers. All releases are limited edition. This release is a Limited Edition EP (250 on black vinyl). New life and an expanded treatment of Quiroga's epic Electronic/Future Jazz/House Snaporaz (Really Swing 2020), from none other than L.U.C.A. (AR029). Archeo delights us with this luscious and limited release featuring Quiroga's sleek jazz-house UFO "Snaporaz". This edition includes an exclusive extended version, a brand-new cut from the Neapolitan groover, and a completely cosmic overhaul from the mighty L.U.C.A. Operating at the nexus of future jazz, beatific electronics and deft house, Quiroga (Walter Del Vecchio to his nearest and dearest) has carved his own irresistible niche over the past two decades, gracing countless labels with nuanced body movers and forging his impressive Really Swing imprint, the original home to this melodic masterpiece. Tucked away on Del Vecchio's 2020 EP "Chords and Desire", the sunny and sultry Snaporaz fell foul of our communal pandemic preoccupation, missing out on the widespread acclaim, appreciation and ass-shaking it so richly deserves. Archeo steps in as patron, giving this Rhodes-led jazz-house heater the full 12" treatment it was born for. On the A1, Quiroga's extends the ecstasy of "Snaporaz", stretching its original elements into a loosely grooving, dopamine-deep delight. Sunkissed keys and tender pads ride the rhythm of a bubbling bassline while the sophisticated percussion snaps, crackles and pops in the background - the perfect environment for the P&P leadline to flourish. If that wasn't enough to have you slipping straight into your party pumps, Walter makes the most of the extra runtime with a HOT hand drum freakout down the final stretch, adding the most enticing icing to an already heady cake. A comparative cooldown follows in A2 offering "Escorpião", a fusion-tinged flirtation for aperitivo everywhere. Cutting back on the kick to save space for the swing, Quiroga leads us through a sublime sequence of hooks, riffs and solos, without ever overwhelming the ears but keeping the groove alive. It's a dizzying delight from start to finish and features one of the finest keytar and cowbell interplays you're likely to hear. The B-side belongs to the frankly legendary Francesco de Bellis, a house, disco, Italo and electro hero, appearing here under his deliciously downbeat alias L.U.C.A. Imbuing Quiroga's original with the atmospheric stylings of his Edizioni Mondo oeuvre, the Roman producer delivers a radical rework, slowing the tempo by 20 bpm and translating those jazzy tones into a drifting new age dancer for the cosmic crowd. Zero gravity rhythms meet mystical melodies uptown as the house hippies get down. Lest we overlook the batshit brilliance of the drum programming, L.U.C.A. caps it off with a bonus beats version sure to delight DJs and dancers alike in its otherworldly oddness.

TAMIZDAT Records, the forward-thinking, club-driven stem of MixCult Records, returns with its third vinyl release — Panacea EP TMZ003, a potent compilation of cutting-edge Tech House crafted by rising prodigies: Caputi, Osman Öz & SUBMINIMAL, Dawn Gab and Nikdo.

Designed for the dancefloor yet rich in sonic nuance, Panacea EP strikes a delicate balance between raw bassline power and refined beauty. Each track showcases an evolutive approach to club music — immersive, rhythmic, and brimming with personality. The artists push boundaries while maintaining an irresistible groove that keeps the body moving and the mind engaged.

TAMIZDAT carves its own lane within the MixCult universe, channeling dub techno aesthetics into a club-forward format that feels both current and timeless. This EP is a declaration of intent: sleek, bold, and undeniably danceable.

Whether you're spinning late-night sets or deep-diving into thoughtful listening, Panacea EP delivers on all fronts. Don’t miss out on this essential slice of modern club culture — get your hands on TMZ003 VA – Panacea EP and feel the pulse of the future.

MixCult Records unveils TAMIZDAT, which in Russian TAM means “there” (as a reference of an aboard, western location), and IZDAT means “to publish”. It was the name for banned books and magazines published "there", that is, abroad.

Limited edition.

We all remember with mixed feelings the past two years of domestic isolation: a temporary anomaly in which the world had to adjust to a new routine, a new rhythm. In these daunting yet precious circumstances, Italian producer Markeno has found his rhythm back, dusting off old records and re-approaching his past musical love affairs that he believed to be long forgotten. Here, in the fertile limbo that connects past and future, “Dock lown (exploring)” is born: a 3-tracker release with a chameleonic nature and an undeniable groove, in which Markeno is able to tactfully combine different genres such as indie, post-rock, African mu- sic, electro and funk.

In the contemporary music scene, overly saturated with catchy melodies and seductive lyrics, it is refreshing to encounter a composition like “Fase 01”, which starts from a purely percussive structure. Just when the ear is settled and well inserted into the tangle of drums, here comes the melodic twist, no less than at the fourth minute, injecting an unexpected groove and chalking out the contours of a track with multiple personalities: a little esoteric, a little synth-wave, quirky and badass. The temperature rises with “Zona Ros- sa”, in which the electro hint sketched in “Fase 01” becomes more pronounced, opening the doors to a dense psychedelic scenario. A shamanic loop accompanies the electric bass and escorts us through the smoke of the bonfire, veils swayed by the wind and colored lights that sparkle in the night. The ritualistic humming of ‘’Zona Rossa”’ is still hearable, floating in the rarefied atmosphere, while the last track “Limbo” makes its entrance and confirms once again the poliedric but congruous essence of this release, whose percussive attitude lures you in and whose hypnotic and groovy body makes you stay. At least for one more dance.

Sara Berton

Liner Notes by Martyn Pepperell

A collection of ten hypnotic guitar renditions that dive deeply into the traditional compositional musicality that underpins Harakami’s hallucinatory beatscapes before reconsidering them under a fresh, innovative and engaging new light. River: The Timbre of Guitar #2 Rei Harakami signals a new level of awareness and understanding of both Rei Harakami’s significance and Ayane Shino’s undeniable talent.

VITAL SALES POINTS:

In 1996 Tokyo-based label Sublime Records received a cassette demo from Rei Harakami, a 26-year-old Japanese experimental filmmaker, and musician. Within one year Harakami’s debut LP ‘Unrest’ was released. As the 21st century dawned, Harakami was becoming a critically acclaimed figure, and there was a feeling in Japan that Harakami would be an inevitable successor to such luminaries as Haruomi Hosono and Ryuichi Sakamoto. Sadly Harakami passed away at age 40 in 2011, leaving behind a musical legacy that seemed to deserve more recognition. A fitting tribute now comes from the incredibly gifted classical guitarist Ayane Shino. Continuing her album series ‘The Timbre of Guitar’ (the inaugural release of which was ‘Sakura’ - a cover album of Susumu Yokota's seminal album, released through the Swiss label, Mental Groove Records in 2021), she now presents ‘River ???? : The Timbre of Guitar #2 Rei Harakami’. Ayane has reworked some of Harakami’s standout tracks into an album of tranquil yet complex compositions helping to build a new level of awareness and understanding of Rei Harakami’s significance. A collection of ten hypnotic guitar renditions that dive deeply into the traditional compositional musicality that underpins Harakami’s hallucinatory beatscapes before reconsidering them under a fresh, innovative and engaging new light.

In the years that followed Harakami’s untimely passing, Sublime Records continued to sign and support new artists emerging from Japan’s rich and fertile electronic music scene. This eventually led to a meeting with gifted classical guitarist Ayane Shino in 2020. Although a new name within electronica, Shino’s classical resume is impeccable. She has performed with a range of prestigious orchestras in concert halls and at music festivals across Japan, Europe, and South America while playing classical guitar for numerous animations, movies and television commercials and holding various educational roles. These days, she also hosts the Tokyo Harmonics radio show, which is syndicated through Hyogo prefecture’s Ashiya Radio and TJS Radio in Los Angeles.

During her time completing a masters at Tokyo’s University of the Arts, Shino became fascinated by Brian Eno, Aphex Twin, Oneohtrix Point Never, Steve Reich, and, closer to home, Harakami and Susumu Yokota. ”I found myself in an environment where I was surrounded by fellow students who produced computer music, live electronics, and installations,” she explains. Following her meeting with Sublime, Hideoki Amano, the producer and owner of Musicmine, the parent company of the label, asked Shino if she would be open to transcribing and recording an album of covers of the late, great composer, producer and DJ Susumu Yokota’s music in incorporate into then-upcoming events commemorating the 5th anniversary of his death and reissues of his past works. “Yokota made music with the Roland TB-303 bass synthesizer and samplers, not in a way like a conventional instrumentalist, so I was aware it might be more of a challenge for her,” Amano explains. Fittingly, Shino was up for his suggestion, leading to ‘Sakura: The Timbre Of Guitars #1 Susumu Yokota’. Song by song, Sakura highlighted Shino’s free-flowing playing and prowess at translating electronic music into classical guitar shapes.
After considering Harakami’s background as an instrumentalist, Amano felt revisiting his catalogue should be the next step for Shino. Well-versed in how often classical versions of electronic music tend to fall flat, he asked her to examine Harakami’s songs closely, select the musical phrases suitable for guitar and create arrangements that would sound interesting to music listeners with a deep engagement with ambient, techno and electronica. In Harakami’s discography, Shino discovered “a sense of simplicity, warmth, moisture and a floating sensation.” “I was gripped by his songs, which had an array of sounds that gave me a sense of mystery but also coexisted with a sense of familiarity,” she explained. Moving beyond his official releases, Shino began digging through YouTube to find live recordings, radio appearances and obscure outtakes. Within her mind’s eye, imagining playing his songs on guitar was effortless. On her approach to the album, Ayane explains: “For this album, I succeeded in spinning some exquisite, silk thread like delicate tones, interwoven with human warmth, gentleness and simplicity. And I was also able to rework Rei Harakami's distinctive sound with a floating feel to it and transform it into a very classical guitar sound. I hope many people will be able to receive this group of sounds that I created in this album that I played with all my heart.” A record of limitless innate beauty, ‘River ???? : The Timbre of Guitar #2 Rei Harakami’ is a delicate and thoughtful body of work. A true masterclass in deconstruction and subsequent rebuilding, and an eternal lesson in how the art that we leave behind can outlive us all.

Techno legend Cari Lekebusch debuts on Mind Medizin with an 8-track double pack of underground Techno.

Stockholm-based sound architect Cari Lekebusch has helped to shape the sound of the underground over the last two-plus decades. He has long been at the heart of his native scene alongside peers such as Adam Beyer and Joel Mull and heads up his own H. Productions label while also serving up his timeless sounds on cultured outlets such as Drumcode and Planet Rhythm.

Opener 'Mind and Matter' opens with quick, compelling drum programming and trippy synth details peeling off thebeats. Muttered vocals bring a dark intensity as the percussion also adds layers of tension. The fantastic 'Freakout' isanother classically inclined and linear techno banger with thudding kicks and futuristic synth lines weaving in and outof the beats. There is no let-up in the pressure with the excellent 'Ninguno es Uno' keeping it deep, driving and late night, this time with squelchy acid lines adding character. 'Heritage' shuts down with a hypnotic blend of shimmering
cosmic synth lines and pulsing deep techno drums that keep the mind and body fully locked in.

This second half kicks off with 'Cause and Effect', a bustling blend of scuffed-up kicks and snares, glitchy hits and jangling synth sounds that bring great looseness to the driving grooves. The funky 'Handkante' delivers flailing percussive patterns and wisps of synths that spit out of the mix next to a drunken synth lead. 'Strulgubbe' keeps the pressure on with more muscular drums, this time underpinned by darker bass and unsettling synth twangs. The fantastic closer 'Tuli Taivaalla' offers up a serene sound that is backed with sustained chords and marbled with edgy vocals.

Depthful is the new label runs by Dotan Bibi aka Dot - dedicated to the exploration of the vibrant and immersive worlds of house and techno music. strive to unearth tracks that resonate with both the mind and body, creating an auditory experience that transports listeners to a deeper state of being. You can expect releases from Dot himself and close friends who share the same style & vision.

first release comes from label owner Dot :

A1.'The Setting Of The Sunrise' opens with an ethereal atmosphere, inviting listeners into a world where time seems to stretch and bend striking a perfect balance that encourages movement on the dance floor while also inviting moments of reflection. Along with the vocal pieces that are scattered throughout the section and create a lovely flow.

A2.'That Place' is a vibrant house track that radiates energy and warmth from the very first beat. The pulsating bassline sets a solid foundation, driving the rhythm forward with an infectious groove that invites movement.
From the outset, the track features lush synth chords that create a euphoric atmosphere, transporting listeners to a sun-soaked dance floor.

B1.'Past And Future' is a captivating deep duby track that immerses listeners in a rich, atmospheric soundscape. From the very beginning, the track unfolds slowly, enveloping you in its lush textures and resonant basslines and small pieces of vocals that connect amazingly with the atmosphere of the track. deep, hypnotic rhythms that create a sense of space and time, inviting introspection and exploration.

B2.'Hide & Seek is the closing track of the EP and is a mesmerizing breakbeat deep track that masterfully weaves intricate rhythms with atmospheric soundscapes. From the first beat, listeners are drawn into a world where playful breaks and deep basslines create an engaging and dynamic listening experience.“Hide & Seek” is a standout track that perfectly highlighting Dot’s innovative approach. It’s ideal for both the dance floor and intimate listening sessions.