The Passion has always been a track that resonated deep within me, a true gem by the infamous 90s duo GTO, also known as Technohead. It is a classic that has been a constant source of inspiration and emotion in my musical journey.
I am beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to rework this timeless track into a modern Techno anthem that embraces Peaktime and Psy elements, infused with my signature production style.
Suche:emotion
Moderna Ignites the Dance Floor with Debut Album "The Future Is Among Us"
Conceived over seven years in Berlin and Mexico City, "The Future Is Among Us" is a sonic tapestry woven from diverse influences. Each track, produced in a different era, retains its unique character while seamlessly blending into a cohesive album experience.
The album ignites with "DIE4U," a powerful homage to Prince's iconic "I Would Die 4 U." Moderna reimagines the timeless sentiment – entirely self-produced and written in Berlin. Layered vocals, a driving bass line, and a pulsating electro beats that create a controlled yet electrifying atmosphere.
The title track, "The Future Is Among Us," embodies the collaborative spirit at the heart of the album.
Originally conceived before the album was complete, bringing bass lines and a percussive energy that feels like a declaration that the future is not something to wait for, but something we are actively creating together on the dance floor.
The album promises a vibrant blend of electronic and dark wave music, showcasing Moderna's ability to weave together infectious dance floor anthems with deeper, more introspective moments.
This depth is evident in tracks like "Lost at Heart," a collaboration with post-punk artist Skelesys that transcends genre with its raw emotional vulnerability. The album's ability to seamlessly shift
between these contrasting styles is a testament to Moderna's artistry and her ability to curate a cohesive listening experience that invites a provocative energy.
Moderna’s impressive career extends beyond this album. Beyond her solo work, she has showcased her remixing talent on tracks for The Matrix 4 soundtrack and Curses' Next Wave Acid Punx compilation, collaborated on four EPs with Mexican artist Theus Mago who also contributes to the album on the dream wave serenade “Blades”.
The album will be released on her ‘Brave New Rave’ imprint which she established in 2019 from her highly recognized radio show on KCRW Berlin.
GRAMMY-award nominated Jordan Rakei is a renowned multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, producer, and songwriter who, over soon-to-be-five studio albums, has been on a wide-ranging journey that explores the outer reaches of his inner psyche, traversing themes of emotional evolution, personal growth and family with unwavering sincerity. Always positioning himself in and amongst the bigger questions in life, he has navigated his musical journey with passion and precision, unveiling something new about himself through his songwriting at every turn. The Loop is by far Rakei’s most cohesive and evolutionary work to date following an impressive career of previous releases, each of which have demonstrated his natural curiosity and capabilities in exploring new sounds.
black vinyl[11,72 €]
Pure Dub techno driven 5 tracker. Hydergine is back on Ranges with a new sonic journey that delves deep into dub techno while infusing it with innovative broken beat structures.
The EP showcases the artists signature style in a captivating and refreshing way. Four tracks take the listener on a diverse and evocative journey, ranging from futuristic and dark sci-fi vibes to immersive and emotionally resonant soundscapes, with a rich tapestry of sonic elements that engage the mind and stimulate the senses.
Resoe provides a reinterpretation of “Perception” that reveals new layers of complexity and emotion. A captivating exploration that results in a hypnotic and addictive masterpiece, further enriching the overall package.
Bread & Butter recordings welcomes spring with their long-stablished V.A series exclusively on vinyl. On this occassion the ammalgamation of artists comprises 4 exceptional producers, fusing together two of the most important electronic music cultures. To start off with the right foot, London-based artist Modebaku brings complex percussive patterns along groaning basslines and dreamy pads making a extravagant yet minimalistic expression. To complement the A side, Romanian Primarie keeps up with the energy, coming with a more euphoric approach distinguished by tense atmospheres and bright drums.
On the flip side, it’s another Romanian heavyweight Techu delivering an exquisite taste of contemporary electronic music. The track's warm melodies and futuristic synths combine into a deeply emotional expression. Finally, Ted Amber rounds up the record with a deep house vibe: more joyful, dubby and a contagious charm.
Once more, Bread & Butter Recordings is able to capture an innovative essence, blending different syles to make an epic EP.
Aerials live, dials tuned, Transmission Towers broadcasting. On either side of the river Mersey, transcendental communications are traded back and forth. Two late-night revellers, one firing messages filled with music, the other returning them laced with lyrics. The result, a dopamine hit of oddball machine soul, melded with a highlife, Afrofuturist touch. Wonky and murky yet deeply emotional, Transmission One, is a debut album that also marks the first release on Luke Una’s É Soul Cultura label, encompassing expertly the off-kilter atmosphere the label sets to orbit.
A synthesised landscape with a Northern charm, Transmission Towers marry the musical worlds of two artists that last collaborated over a decade ago. 10 years have passed, lives have been led, but a gravitational pull has placed Mark Kyriacou and Eleanor Mante back in each other’s spheres on opposite sides of the city of Liverpool. Energised with a newfound desire to strip it all back to the sounds that influenced their formative years in the late ‘80s and ‘90s - astral travelling, intoxicated on Motor City techno, Black Dog IDM and mystical Sun Ra.
Mark half Irish, half Greek Cypriot, Eleanor half Nigerian, half Ghanian, the music contained within is an alchemy of those roots and the pivotal acts that buried deep into their minds. A cosmic contrast, part machine-made, part distinctly human. Take the opener ‘UP’, an ESG-channelling, sci-fi punk beatdown or the polychromatic hyperspace anthem ‘Roller Skater 23’.
Transportive throughout, you ride the solar waves, pace and emotion ebbing and flowing. Tracks like ‘Go Slow Heart’ and ‘Cosmic Trigger’ step to a slower beat but hit with a punch. The former, a slo-mo blast of celestial tenderness, the latter an otherworldly, chugged-out lunar excursion, micro-dosing on whacked-out Wah Wah and Eleanor’s ethereal vocals. Beaming love letters to space and back, ‘Sparse’ marries the organic with the artificial, pianos and percussion circling around synth pads and broadcasting bleeps.
Elsewhere, vibrations move faster. ‘Mega’ strikes, fusing sonic tribalism with psychedelic swirls, as ‘Everything’ sweeps you up in its extra-terrestrial new wave grip. Synth stabs and basslines fizzing from every angle.
Demos of Transmission Towers music surfaced on Luke Una’s radar, making him stop in his tracks. Something magical was emerging, perfectly aligned with the E Soul guardian’s tastes. Guidance followed, quickly turning into conversations about Transmission One becoming the first release on Luke’s own label.
Escapist and futurist yet grounded and relatable. Transmission One is synthesis meets sentiment with a deep, spine-tingling soul at its core.
Fierce and forlorn, Swarm Intelligence’s “The Shattered Self” delves into the complexities of human existence in an era dominated by technological advancements. In this thought-provoking exploration, the artist challenges listeners to confront the consequences of a near future where physical and mental augmentation are commonplace. In a world where limbs can be upgraded, where consciousness can be uploaded, where memories can be digitally archived and shared on social media, where our AI clones can liberate us from menial tasks… What remains of our selves? Who is our self?
Swarm Intelligence draws influences from black metal, industrial-tinged dub and post rock, splicing these with his distinctive take on techno to devastating effect. "Dejected," the inaugural track, unleashes grinding walls of feedback against a relentless broken beat, its foreboding atmosphere heightened by a menacing low growl of distorted bass that permeates the unease. It's a disquieting overture that sets the stage for the tumultuous journey ahead.
The second track, “Eros” envelops the listener in a visceral soundscape, where haunting atmospheres intertwine with grinding feedback and pounding percussion. Initially tense, the track evolves into an unexpected and almost euphoric climax, adding an unforeseen emotional depth to the sonic narrative. Yet, beneath the surface, an undercurrent of tension remains—an ever-present reminder of the fragility of our self.
On the flip side, "Inciter" channels inner fury through a guttural chant punctuating a Birmingham-styled broken beat, marching forth with unyielding force.
Finally, "Portal" offers a moment of quiet introspection, as haunting pads echo a mournful refrain while micro recordings of whirring machinery are assembled into the percussion section. It serves as a poignant curtain-closer.
Through "The Shattered Self," Swarm Intelligence challenges listeners to reconsider their perceptions of identity, consciousness, and agency in an age where the machine and the human converge. It's a haunting and profound journey—one that invites introspection and contemplation long after the final reverb tails fade into silence.
Bedroom Talks, hailing from Ukraine, is a gifted solo artist whose music, delves into an eclectic blend of genres including coldwave, darkwave, synthwave, post-punk with touches of EBM. “Call Me Malespero,” produced during Ukraine’s shelling, captures the essence of his art in a unique and moving way.
It’s a powerful testament to human resilience and the ability to find beauty even in the darkest moments, evoking a range of emotions from pain and anger to palpable sweetness, all woven into poetic lyrics and enveloping melodies. Presented in ONE-OFF truly limited edition of 300 copies lacquered pressed on 180 gr. high quality solid BLACK vinyl. All tracks have been specially mastered for vinyl by Daniel Hallhuber at Young and Cold Studios (Germany). inc
Introducing the first release from Italy's Ellito's Bakery label, a fresh EP packed with four electrifying tracks by Elliot P, tailored for the dance floor. With a keen focus on stirring emotions, these club-ready tunes are crafted to immerse listeners in a sonic journey. —White Label Hand stamped 12"
Nørus & Dj Whipr Snipr team up for Gravitational Attraction on Nerang Recordings. Queensland based DJ/producer and label head Dj Whipr Snipr has been running Nerang Recordings since 2016, putting out music from the likes of Interplanetary Criminal, Subjoi, DJ Swagger, DJ Bowlcut, J. Albert, Cassettes For Kids, and many more since its inception. Teaming up with Brazilian DJ/producer and Gestalt Records alumni Nørus here, the duo air their Second collaborative EP With flavours from Breaks, Electro, Techno and beyond.
Early support by: ÂME, Noah Pred & Eduardo De La Calle + many more!
Up next on Renegade Methodz is label head Endlec. Following last year's "Cycle of Doom" EP, the Greek producer returns to the label for his first release of 2024.
Dry loopy techno, composed with classic techniques, yet designed for the modern dancefloor...the 'Futur Akustik' release finds Endlec returning to a sound that has defined him earlier in his career and showcases the producer's knack for memorable sonic designs and admirable studio prowess.
Minimal in its components and pristine in the sound processing, the listener is presented with a cohesive collection of classic techno tracks that blend a mix of raw, percussive, driving elements and powerful kick drums with ever-dominant synth lines, providing a sense of intensity and raw emotion to all cuts, while straightforward techno rhythms keep the record dancefloor-regulated.
Adiel's "Il Significato Delle Parole Remixes" EP Returns with Captivating Remix Package includes Donato Dozzy & Pinch
In the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music, where sonic landscapes morph and intertwine, Adiel's "Il Significato Delle Parole" EP stands as a testament to the power of artistic collaboration and sonic exploration. Now, this boundary-pushing release returns with a mesmerizing remix package, featuring reinterpretations by acclaimed artists Donato Dozzy, Pinch and Adihell.
Originally conceived as a collaborative effort between Adiel and musician Flavio Accorinti, "Il Significato Delle Parole" delves deep into the intersection of techno and experimental sounds. Its tracks serve as conduits for a journey through fragmented realities, weaving together elements of cyberpunk futurism and introspective dreamscapes.
Leading the remix charge is none other than Donato Dozzy, whose masterful touch breathes new life into the EP's ethereal atmospheres. His reimagining of "Nulla Resta" takes listeners on a hypnotic voyage, layering intricate textures over a pulsating rhythm, while maintaining the track's emotive core.
Joining him is Pinch, a visionary producer known for his genre-defying approach to bass music. His Remix of "Sospesa" injects the track with a sense of urgency, blending dark trip-hop aesthetics with futuristic sound design to create a truly immersive sonic experience.
The EP also includes Adihells' captivating remix of "Nulla Resta," returning after leaving an indelible mark on the original release. This rendition adds another layer of depth and intrigue to the already mesmerizing collection. It's worthnoting that Adihells isn't merely an alias but rather a darker iteration of Adiel, embodying a distinct sonic persona.
Adiel is a visionary artist whose sonic explorations defy conventions and push boundaries. With a keen ear for intricate soundscapes and a fearless approach to experimentation, she continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
With these remixes, Adiel's "Il Significato Delle Parole" EP transcends its original boundaries, inviting listeners to explore new dimensions of sound and emotion. As words continue to shape our understanding of the world, this release serves as a reminder of the transformative power of music to unite and inspire.
Embrace the journey and let the music speak for itself.
Submorphics’ new imprint Rosebay Music returns with its 2nd release - this time joined by North Quarter boss and soulful D&B aficionado Lenzman. Melding adjacent styles ofsoul and funk once again, this 2 track single is primed for dance floors, headphones, road trips and reflective late nights.
Echoes of November sees the longtime friends and collaborators fusing skanked-outfunk with steppy drums, Detroit-style synths and a haunting soul vocal echoing from thedeep past.
On The Messenger, Submorphics gives us an esoteric solo tune with ultra-rollingdrums, standout catchy vocals and deep musical flourishes.
Rosebay Music continues to wear its heart on its sleeve; presenting emotionally andmelodically engaging music to discerning D&B lovers.
Stay tuned for more!
10 Years Anniversary compilation LP.
Ten years ago, on 21 April 2014, Russian enclave of the Baltic Kaliningrad-based trio Blind Seagull started off its adventure in the soon to be known as Sovietwave aka Russian post-punk underground. Tean years later they have accomplished to release nine full-length albums on all sorts of limited edition formats such as LPs, CDs, tapes with most of them being sold out for years.
It was time to bring many of these tracks back to life, picking up the best among them and reissuing for the global post punk/darkwave niche.
Fifteen cuts previously released by labels like Detriti, Sierpien, Pine Hill through which the band led by Denis Zarubin has shaped its own brand of icy coldwave, one pretty classic and extremely fresh and contemporary at once. On top of these we have one more track exclusive to this release which is a eurodance-oriented remix for their minor hit Animals Die in the Scaffolding. Think of a bunch of goth kids screwing around at the local carnival and you’ll get the vibe!
Decade Of Effort is due on April 21, 2024 on white vinyl LP limited to 300 with fairy-tale artwork by the band enhanced by the magical lettering of young Spanish artist Sara Fornés.
- A1: Roolingz - Shout
- A2: Fearless - Workin Hard
- A3: I Jahbar + Darkchild - Stream
- A4: Longdon - Careful
- A5: Rdl Shellah + Tolerance - Good Good
- A6: I Jahbar - 2Am
- A7: Jah Love Chant
- A8: G Sudden - Love Neva Fail
- A9: I Jahbar + Darkchild - Move
- A10: Buddydon - Open Sesame
- B1: King Kush - Choppa Dem Out
- B2: Rdl Shellah - Good Ambition
- B3: I Jahbar - Mamma
- B4: Nature Provides Chant
- B5: Darkchild - Leave Dem Things Alone
- B6: 1Solar Boss - Focus
- B7: Babylon Fall Chant
- B8: King Kush - Big Tundra
- B9: Latty - Stand Firm
- B10: Alexander West Shout
- B11: Alexander West - Granny Grenade
Time Splitters is a various artist compilation created and produced by Richmond VA based Deskulling in collaboration with veteran Spanish Town JA artist I Jahbar between 2021 and 2023. This 21 track 50 plus minute Dancehall epic also includes other veteran vocalists such as G Sudden, RDL Shellah, Buddydon, and Darkchild plus newer talents such as Fearless, Longdon, Latty, King Kush and 1 Solar Boss. Alexander West who passed away in 2023 contributes an ethereal and heartfelt album closing performance on “Granny Grenade”. Time Splitters is a sprawling creation that captures a multiplicity of emotions, life complexities, spiritual evocations, and musical dimensions. Deskulling's eclectic productions are rendered to the perfect minimalism and provide a rich and varied platform for vocal performances that move between dark and light, sad and joyful, heavy and soft. A lot of work went into this release over a few years from many people during times of inner and outer complexities, turmoils, and tribulations. This release musically, lyrically, emotionally, represents life's spectrum's fully. Thanks for listening.
There was a long time I considered Raymond Richards the ultimate secret weapon. There were sounds he could make that other people just couldn’t. Pure, whole, yet complex sounds. The pedal steel is an extremely niche instrument outside of its Country confines, but its sheer and transcendent depth has never failed to floor me. Raymond’s ear for implementing the steel into literally 'anything' has always been uncanny. After decades of being savvy to his work ethic, multi-faceted studio skills and overall sense of musical honesty, it became a priority for me to channel some of this into narratives through the ESP Institute and get his stories told. Without further recounting the history and trajectory of our musical relationship (see the press release for 2020’s critically-acclaimed album 'The Lost Art Of Wandering'), I can whole-heartedly confirm this sophomore release, 'Sand Paintings', opens an even wider door into Raymond’s visceral, contemplative world. The cast of players has elaborated to include Calexico’s John Convertino on drums and percussion, a bevy of eccentric stringed instruments and even a hint of brass to collectively stratify context for the pedal steel. Through diversifying the timbral palette, we invite an increased soundstage acuity but also reveal untapped wells of emotion for the listener, perhaps even testing cultural literacies. One foot remains in our established ambient realm, while the other steps toward grand cinematic gestures, and despite the dense, insurmountable emotion in these songs, there is a stoic singularity, like a lonesome cowboy pulling up his boot straps to endure another day. 'Badwater Basin' opens with courage, an enormous chord evoking Raymond’s image of “hard dawn”, but in navigating through the dramatic depictions of 'Monument Valley', 'Saguaro' and 'Deer On Hwy 80', we grapple with a cloaked vulnerability—weathered by the elements, beaten down and alone, yet still madly in love with the world. —Lovefingers
- A1: Bakeren (Feat Faye Houston)
- A2: O Mar E A Lua (Feat Olav Wöllo)
- A3: Bergen Sunrays (Feat Selim Mutic)
- A4: Belle Époque
- A5: Den Franske Gitaren (Feat Aich)
- B1: Don`t Fall Asleep (Feat Faye Houston)
- B2: Rory`s Sunrays
- B3: Nada Pode Me Calar (Feat Olav Wöllo)
- B4: La Psychosomnie
- B5: Den Franske Gitaren (Feat Martin Halla)
2023 sees the return of multi-talented Norwegian producer Espen Horne to Wah Wah 45s, after a 24 year hiatus. The man behind the label's very first release, the now seminal Magnetica, never lost his connection with the imprint and has remained very much part of the Wah Wah family, making a comeback this year with his first solo material under his own name since that club classic from 1999.
Back in the spring, the first single from the project, the gorgeous soul-jazz beauty Bakeren, featuring the stunning vocals of Resonators' Faye Houston, quickly found a home on Gilles Peterson's internationally renowned BBC Radio 6 show as well as that of Jazz FM legend Robbie Vincent, Bandcamp Weekly and the Fresh Finds Jazz Spotify playlist.
Following that, Bergen Sunrays, became a weekly fixture on the Craig Charles Funk & Soul Show on BBC 6 Music, with the limited 7-inch of both singles selling out within hours of release.
Next up was the wistful Den Franske Gitaren, a lugubrious soul-jazz piece with drum & bass leanings featuring Bergen based MC and vocalist Aich, which found favour with legends Laurent Garnier and Jazzanova as well as hot Japanese production outfit Dazzle Drums.
This was closely followed by the final single to be taken from the album, the stunning and outspoken vocal jazz waltzer Nada Pode Me Calar (which roughly translates to Nothing Can Shut Me Up!) featuring the sublime talent of Olav Wöllo on vocals and Juno - anotherr big one with Gilles Peterson on Worldwide FM and Deb Grant on BBC 6 Music.
And now the full album, entitled The Anatomy Of Serene Eloquence is available for your aural delectation. Recorded largely during lockdown, the LP is a sophisticated and composed piece of work that sees the Norwegian producer make connections with musicians from across Europe, and some closer to home, to collaborate on this sedate and peaceful collection of songs.
The aforementioned Faye Houston also appears on the soulful, dub flavoured Don't Fall Asleep, a piece of music that explores the feeling of being isolated whilst sharing a mutual love and drive to explore new sonic possibilities.
Elsewhere, Olav Wöllo pops up again too, this time on O Mar E A Lua and once again singing in Portuguese to give this track a certain Tropicalia feel, as Espen explains:
"Olav Wöllo is a close friend, an excellent musician and vocalist, and a capoeira professor here in Bergen. He has spent much of his life living in Brazil and speaks Portuguese fluently. He wrote the lyrics for this tune years ago and had just been waiting for the right collaboration to come along.
We went to his lovely studio out on this remote island, made a massive gyoza meal, had some serious good wine and stayed the whole night to record his vocal harmonies and outspoken lyrics."
The single Bergen Sunrays also appears on the album in instrumental form with featured keys courtesy of London based player Rory More - here entitled Rory's Sunrays. His Lowrey organ adds a more melancholic feel to the track, as it does on the stunning Belle Époque, alongside the ivory work of Eirik Blåsternes - an emotional, contemplative and atmospheric track that was tested and shaped in the eclipse of Covid.
As with Belle Époque, La Psychosomnie is a playful yet explorative cut that examines insomnia, paralysis and hypnosis courtesy of some enigmatic French spoken word spinning around a framework of drums, bass and swirling keys.
And finally, the album offers up an alternative version of the single Den Franske Gitaren, this time featuring Martin Halla, a vocalist out of the Bergen Grieg Jazz Academy and winner of the Norwegian version of The Voice back in 2012! The perfect flip to Aich's more mournful interpretation of this bass and drum future classic.
finally repressed !
For the second journey on ´Future Romance´ the french DJ and producer duo ´Esoteric Circle´ from Paris are delivering 2 masterpieces of melodic house & techno music. The two brothers bring their emotions together in a new innovative style, focussing on elaborating synth melodies and minimal percussive sounds, full of energy. As remixer for this brilliant release we could win the renowned italian duo ´Hunter/Game´, wellknown for their successful releases on labels like Kompakt, Afterlife or LNOE, just to name a few.
Early DJ support by Adriatique, Sasha, Dubfire, Fur Coat, Anii, Dave Seaman, Markus Kavka, Dirty Doering, Undercatt, Zoo Brazil, Dr. Motte and more...
The Surface Label based in the south of France offers you a catalog of new references limited to a few copies.
A kind of rebirth is being launched this year.
The versions are specially long and adapted to enthusiasts but also to collectors.
We hope that our selection gives you an emotion such as we have tried to convey to you since the beginning, more than 25 years ago.
The vinyl will be transmitted to the future generation who will be able to attest that the human being was still in the creativity despite the technology.
We want to be human markers unlike machine man. Don’t listen to the machine. Listen to the human emotions.
A new page opens ….. the story continues …
WandalHouz
One of the most consistent new labels around, Cyphon Recordings, marks double figures with another standout release that gleans from the past, but faces the future. This time they look to the talents of Emotive Technology, a new alias from Chilean Massiande who provides a five-track EP of machine-wielding, soul-rousing techno from across the spectrum.
Although this may be the first release under his new moniker, Massiande has spent the last decade putting out productions with labels such as Housewax, Phonica, Freerange and Groovin. Firing on all cylinders from the get-go, ‘Rise’ kicks off the Walk Into The Light EP. A hyperspace melding of new beat, Italo and arp-operating techno that opens out into a slice of peak-time revelry.
The swirling textures of ‘It’s On’ follow, pushing you into the next dimension. A hypnotic, entrancing and arresting heads-down powerhouse. Crunchy and considered it's the kind of strobe-stuttering basement jam that turns heads inside out.
Two Detroit-leaning tracks ‘Your Zone’ and ‘Walk IntoThe Light’ are up next. The former is a heavyweight machine workout. Layered synth lines and crisp drum programming transfix, as that grooving low-end powers bodies into bedlam. The latter, a Motor-City-influenced tour de force. One that sees Massiande recode the circuitry to hit with a piano-laden stunner, balancing power and presence, with emotion and nuance.
Closing out proceedings, ‘The Swing’ sucks you in deeper. A resonating world of synth stabs, pulsating basslines and atmospheric electronics.
Doing the Emotive Technology namesake proud, Walk Into The Light is machine music hardwired with a heavy sense of soul.
It’s True What They Say is the debut EP from Edinburgh-based, husband-and-wife duo Sarah/Shaun (pronounced simply Sarah Shaun), aka Sarah and Shaun McLachlan (pronounced “McLochlin”).
“Sarah and I both have a love for nostalgia,” explains Shaun. “We watched that amazing old 80’s Sci-Fi, (John) Carpenter movie, Starman, a few months back. Myself and my brother David used to watch it all the time. We must have been, roughly, 5-7 at the time. I remember loving the movie but the end, you know, with the beautiful, atmospheric, synth ending, I love that particular moment the most - best part of the movie, you know, when he goes home… It’s heartbreaking but stunning, all the same. It’s the music that moves you most… It did when I was 5 and it still does to this day. It must have had some form of a (much deeper) impact on me.”
The duo narrates stories across themes of love, hope, family, friends, dreams and sadness - the good that comes with the bad in everyday life, not just on a personal scale but within a community as well.
“Starbed is the first song I have ever written and just came out of the blue really, with Shaun playing a melody and me singing along,” says Sarah. “It’s simple and just about two people in love. Love songs are always the best songs, after all… Music has been a big part of my life from a young age. I was unwillingly dragged to piano and violin lessons, which I’m thankful for now! I’d say the first band I really became obsessed with growing up were the Beatles, and on the back of that a lot of 60s music and fashion. From then on, I had a love for music.”
“Shaun definitely opened my ears to a lot of sounds and got me thinking about soundtracks and all the noises that can be made,” she goes on. “We love just spending time experimenting in the house with instruments, pedals etc and Ali is a real magician to work with, too…”
The recordings took place over the summers of 2022 and 2023, with fellow Delta Mainline member Ali Chisholm (aka Jaguar Eyes) plus long-term friend and collaborator Gavin King. Further collaboration then came via the ‘net from the (international) likes of Chris Dixie Darley (Father John Misty), Darren Coghill (Neon Waltz) and Daniel Land (The Modern Painters), among others (see a full list of credits below).
Both Sarah and Shaun have a love for uber-soundtrack producers such as Hanz Zimmer, Max Richter, Cliff Martinez plus live acts such as Beach House, Spiritualized, M83, Suicide, Moby and OMD (to name a few). Shaun also credits the work of Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein (from Survive) on the Stranger Things score… “Even a moment in a movie, whether it be just 30 seconds during a particular scene, it grips you,” he says. But there’s something much deeper at play as well. “Music is a healer,” he goes on, “and I write from my own perspective but more so for others. Once I've done my bit, it doesn't belong to me any longer. It belongs to whoever wants it or needs it.”
The result is a cinematic, synth-wavey, dream poppy and downright beguilingly beautiful body of work. And they’re just getting started…
REVIEWS/RADIO/FEEDBACK:
“Starbed is folky, flavoured by pedal steel, cello, and brass. Dust Tears, in stark contrast, is a mini synth-pop rave epic. Part Bicep. Part Human League. Keep Your Eyes Closed summons a mood that’s romantic, but also dark and potentially doomed – like David Lynch’s Twin Peaks meets Cliff Martinez’s Drive score. My pick though is It’s True What They Say, whose interwoven jangle and picking recalls New Order’s more introspective moments (Love Vigilantes, Love Less… ). Drums crashing, cathartic. Guitar raising dramatic arcs. Its chorus a rush, like a reprise of Pains Of Being Pure Of Heart’s ‘Higher Than The Stars’.” BAN BAN TON TON
"Dust Tears sees them sharing vocal duties over a synth foundation reminiscent of Moby’s Go - Artist Of The Week” THE SCOTSMAN
"Woozy pop" NEMONE (Mary Anne Hobbs Morning Show, BBC 6Music)
"Nice one, very David Lynch meets Euro dream pop" YOUTH (Killing Joke, Paul McCartney, U2, The Orb, Spiritualized etc)
"Music sounds killer! Real emotion” DAVID HOLMES
"I’m enjoying it” TIM BRINKHURST aka LONDON (IKLAN, Young Fathers, Callum Easter)
“Oh, this is lovely!” SEAN JOHNSTON (A Love From Outer Space)
"It’s totally my cup of tea with milk and biscuit" BRENT RADEMAKER (Beachwood Sparks/GospelBeach)
"Beautiful, ecstatic electronica! Short and to the point" KEVIN BALES (Spiritualized, Julian Cope, Soulsavers, BE)
"Makes me wanna sit in the sun and sip an Arnold Palmer" CHRIS DIXIE DARLEY (Father John Misty)
“Really beautiful - Cocteau Twins / Spiritualized vibes but has its own thing going on, too - worth checking out!” JULIAN CORRIE (Franz Ferdinand, Miaoux Miaoux)
‘Sounded nice on a sunny day, makes me think of Twin Peaks, nice moods’ EAMON HAMILTON (Sea Power)
"Dealing in nostalgia, no bad thing at all, great to play that (Dust Tears) for you” RODDY HART (BBC Radio Scotland)
“I'll give the vocal tracks a spin before the release." VIC GALLOWAY (BBC Radio Scotland)
"Rather good!" IAIN ANDERSON (BBC Radio Scotland)
CREDITS:
Lyrics, Guitars, Keys, Synths, Drums, Drum Programming, Percussion, Mandolin, Glockenspiel: Shaun McLachlan
Lyrics, Vocals, Keys by Sarah McLachlan
Guitars, Synths, String Arrangements, Drum Programming, Engineering: Jaguar Eyes Percussion/Drums/Effects, Fire Extinguisher: Darren Coghill (Neon Waltz)
Guitars by Daniel Land
Slide Guitar by Chris Dixie Darley (Father John Misty)
Brass by Bruce Michie
Keys, pre-production & engineering on “It’s true what they say”: Gavin King
All produced by Jaguar Eyes and Shaun McLachlan and then mixed at Glasgow’s Chem19 Studios by David McCaulay (From Scotland With Love, Rick Redbeard, BBC TV’s Attenborough and The Mammoth Graveyard score).
Artwork: Jamie Walman (Fourteen Admirals)
MORE INFO:
Although Shaun released a pair of solo singles (When We Dance and Give Your Love To Me) during Lockdown, he will be better known to many via his work as the multi-instrumentalist in Edinburgh band Delta Mainline. With two albums released to date, Oh! Enlightened and Bel Avenir, both rapturously received by fans and critics alike, Delta Mainline have developed an international, cult following. Oh Enlightened (2013) achieved widespread critical acclaim on release, earning the band comparisons to Arcade Fire and Echo & The Bunnymen, while 2019’s Bel Avenir pulled in references to The Flaming Lips, Pink Floyd, David Bowie and krautrock. A third DM album is currently being mixed and due for release later this year…
Ukrainian vinyl label ARTREFORM significantly raises the stakes as its important anniversary (a soon-to-be-released 50th record) is gradually approaching. ARR048 is a double record, including three original tracks by Romanian producer Funky Trip and four Barac, Petit Batou, Lorgu, and Lukea remixes. ARTREFORM's founder, Kyiv DJ and sound producer JOSS, obviously trusts and bets on Funky Trip's talents, and this bet looks set to play out big time. Nicolae Catalin Cimpoier (Funky Trip's actual name) is a notable representative of the new
wave of the Romanian electronic scene that catapulted many stars to global fame. Thanks to a series of successful releases on Rawax Music and Stamp Records Paris, this Bucharest musician perfected his recognizable sound of crystal-clear minimal house, embellished with warm emotions and exquisite, shimmering melodies. Now it's high time Funky Trip transitioned to vinyl!
The second part of ARTREFORM's latest double vinyl release captures a new Romanian electronic scene star, Funky Trip, presenting a track called "Magic Woman." Just like femme fatale encounters often tend to, this occasion leaves one too many questions unanswered. Funky Trip's signature minimal house maintains tension through a looped leitmotif while the rhythm section and spacious ambient pads gradually trick the listener in. "Magic Woman" has the appeal of an ideal "second track" in the mix, the one intriguing enough yet leaving space for further narrative development. Funky Trip's delivery is delightfully contrasted by a beautiful remix by Lorgu that brings to the table an atmospheric, groovy house with many small nuances. The next track, "Les Voix," is another collaboration with Mia Zedan and a perfect specimen of ARTREFORM's sound pedigree: a powerful bass line coupled with an energetic and inventive tech house beat. However, its full depth of immersion takes effect via a remix by Lucas Morello, known as Lukea. His sci-fi-infused vibes of cosmic alienation and observation elevate this remix to the adornment of this Romanian-French-Ukrainian fruitful
creative collaboration.
Early support: Barac, NTFO, Lukea, Sam Farsio.
We warmly welcome Chech to the label, he is delivering our next only vinyl imprint. This Ep features two originals "Regular Guy" and "Eternal Youth". A1 "Eternal Youth" shows an appealing sound based on eternal youth, with percussive sounds and vocal effects, which together with snares, atmospheres and the play of highs, generate this entire movement with an underground and vivid essence. A2 "Regular Guy", the sound of this track is with a powerful bass that tries to add suspense and consistency to the message, giving the result of the minimal sound transporting you to the moment, taking a journey through emotions. B side comes with two stunning remixers, Reboot & Niko Maxen.
repress !
ARCHIELONG LP album consists of 8 intensely rolled tracks dating between 2012-2020. The release unfolds on 4 discs of 180gr, with gatefold covers, coated in Sani Stranskiʼs artwork.
Throughout ARCHIELONG LP, we are absorbed by what typically characterizes his narrative: a peculiar style of story in constant development. Structure and flow are a hallmark feature of his selections, adding one more trippy, eerie minimal style on top of the other, creating a rich and quirky haunted sphere
A – The opening track, I HEAR VOICES THROUGH THE PIPE sets the scene for whatʼs to come, stirring the imagination with its dreamy, cinematic, organic sounds in disguise. The track provides a guidebook to distilling story, emotion
and image into sonic form.
B – EXCESS ALL AREAS – hypnotizes the dancers with endless, reverberating grooves and a punchy 4/4 beat, introducing the audience to his gloomy world of emotions.
C – LA MANIA – lights up some dark pitched atmosphere around you and makes you feel like you are on the mythical La Mania club dancefloor in complete harmony, surrounded by strange and beautiful trippers. The song is like a painting, with frames that evoke flashbacks.
D – NEW LIFE – is a perfect minimalist setup of a percussion loop, throbbing chords and a sinewy walking bass, and itʼs almost intimidatingly heady. Its militant kick and incessant hi-hats propel the beat – definitely a dancefloor highlight.
Operation_PPRCLP kicks off release SUB010 asking how far will we go in the race for technological advancement, and at what cost? Have we forgotten our humanity as a result? Should we be more focused on how to expand human consciousness rather than trying to command, control and obfuscate or is this just in our habitual nature?
41 Minutes Past Midnight investigates painful emotions around losing loved ones without being able to get any closure, how do we move forward without answers in the face of unexplained, heartbreaking tragedy.
6EQUJ5 aka the Wow! signal first detected on August 5th 1977 shifts the perspective out into the constellation of Sagittarius from where the signal is thought to have originated. In 2022 we learned that 3 distant Sun-like stars within the original antenna-pointed coordinates may provide the answer but at a vast distance of 1800 light years from earth, since then, it's all gone quiet... What world reached out from the cosmos, intentionally or mistakenly...
The final track Celestial Beings asks the age old question of what other life exists across the universe, how advanced are these civilizations that may already be exploring distant galaxies with our shared sense of curiosity and when will we be able to connect collectively with such conscious entities.
Vinyl only. Limited
Enter the realm of sonic enchantment with Mixcult Records' latest offering, MCRV015 - VA - Tripping Dubs 3. This exquisite 4-track EP features a diverse array of artists, each contributing their unique vision to create an immersive auditory experience.
Arph kicks off the journey with "Forma Trium" (A1), a hypnotic blend of pulsating rhythms and intricate melodies that set the stage for what's to come. As the music unfolds, listeners are transported to a dancefloor drenched in mood and atmosphere, where every beat is a revelation and every note a moment of pure bliss.
Holm Torrance follows suit with "DP1" (A2), a mesmerizing exploration of deep basslines and ethereal textures that unravel like threads in the fabric of sound. With each passing moment, the music draws listeners deeper into its spell, revealing new layers of emotion and intrigue.
On the B side, Overt's "Square" (B1) injects a burst of energy into the mix, with its sharp beats and infectious grooves igniting the senses and driving the mood to new heights. As the colors of the music dance and intertwine, listeners find themselves swept away by the sheer power and intensity of the track.
Closing out the EP is Martin Aquino's "Apex" (B2), a hauntingly beautiful composition that showcases the artist's impeccable production skills and keen sense of melody. As the music unfolds, listeners are taken on a journey through sonic landscapes that shimmer with emotion and depth, leaving them in awe of the sheer talent on display.
Tripping Dubs 3 is more than just a collection of tracks—it's an invitation to explore the boundless possibilities of sound and rhythm, a testament to the transformative power of music. So step into the groove, and let the journey begin.
Repress!
Cerrone steps up for a new single, cut loud and proud on either side of a 12 inch on his own Malligator Préférence label. In the words of the main man himself…
“I composed ‘For You’ with the desire to get back to all the musical sensations I've experienced in 50 years; to translate all that makes the universe, emotion and sensuality about Disco Music. To do so, I chose to record with real musicians (pianist, string and brass sections, etc.) that were playing live, while taking the best of nowadays's recording and production techniques. I really made this creation which is a musical voyage For You. Enjoy!” - Marc Cerrone
microCastle’s first offering of 2024 welcomes Adrian Roman back to the label for his second artist showcase. Hailing from Spain, Adrian Roman first rose to prominence in 2021 with a string of superlative releases which redefined his sound, resulting in an aesthetic that was both cutting edge and effortlessly cool. F, nmully formed within the creative confines of his Castello studio, Adrian’s first microCastle project, 2022’s‘ Disturbing the Perception’ succeeded in showcasing his inventive approach to composition, while remaining club-effective, and in turn earning play from Aera, Fideles and Jimi Jules, amongst others. Moving forward the next eighteen months have proved to be impactful for the young Spaniard, recording standout projects for AZZUR and Sum Over Histories, releases which continued to build on his creative acumen, while remaining in the playlists of underground tastemakers Ame and Dixon. With 2024 beginning with Adrian’s latest Sum Over Histories vehicle ‘Oratorical Ability’, the Spaniard now makes a welcome return to microCastle with a six-track showcase entitled ‘This Is What I Was For A Moment’.
From the opening monochromes of ‘Le Sabbat’ Adrian’s craftsmanship reveals itself across this slow-burning piece, one where grating growls, granular flares and panoramic arps ultimately set the pace for the groove-centric ‘Customized Reality’. It’s here where Adrian puts a greater focus on the dancefloor, marrying hopeful vocal phrasing and silky chord stabs for a rejuvenating experience, while a drum-driven drop ultimately charts the course for a finale of deconstructed sonics and post-rave bliss. The haywire electricity of ‘Faces of Belmez’ finds the Spaniard once again flexing his creative muscles, as corrugated bleeps and cataclysmic rhythms provide a vast sense of space, creating the ultimate backdrop for distorted synths to propel choppy rhythms into dark underground passages, and perhaps onto some of the world’s most adventurous dancefloors.
The collection’s midway point is marked by the hypno-architecture of ‘Mind Design’. Trickling reverberations and long sighs of tonal tension wade through its pulsating framework, with frayed effects and thumping rhythms submerged beneath a buzzing panoramic glow. Played by Ame and sitting as one of the project's most enigmatic tracks is ‘TAGDI’ (They Are Gonna Do It). Tinted with contemplative synths and guttural vocals, Adrian’s unique emotionality peaks here, as he crafts a low-slung, slow-building dystopian romance, all while weaving in cerebral manipulations for an unforgettable ride. The mist breaks instantly on the collection’s final piece, as your thrusted into the muscular grooves of ‘Fear Track’. Horrifying vocal stabs strike, leaving the gauzy purple skies of ‘TAGDI’ behind for a more robust romp, one where anabolic bassline, retro-arps and off kilter percussion bring the release to a feverish peak. A fitting conclusion to a diverse collection of music, one where Adrian creates a journey that speaks to the complexities of life against an immersive and challenging backdrop.
Artwork: Maurcio Seidel
Dominik Krammer's EP, "The Fields As She Left Me," stands testament to his unique style and profound grasp of electronic music and each track within this collection serves as a portal to the human experience. In this musical journey, Dominik Krammer takes the listener on a relentless ride through the depths of longing and the ecstasy of fulfillment. The EP's four tracks, though diverse in their individual flavors, are interwoven by an undeniable red thread—an overarching conceptual foundation consisting of the complex realm of human emotion, ranging from heart-pounding energy and bittersweet melancholy to raw passion and intense rage.
The EP kicks off with its main track, "The Fields As She Left Me," a sonic journey initiated by ecstatic synths and heavy drumworks that set the pace for what follows. The driving arp and caressing lead of "Nocturnal Desires" embody the ambiguity of being lost and simultaneously feeling at home in the night. "Ketaigel" follows suit, featuring a memorable melody that etches itself into your memory, guiding you through a sinister journey of joy and fulfillment. The remix by David Heine for "Ketaigel" introduces a different sonic sphere compared to the rest of the EP, yet excels in capturing and releasing the fundamental emotional world that defines this musical exploration.
As you immerse yourself in the emotional, melodic, and at times, disorderly soundscape of 'The Fields as She Left Me,' Dominik Krammer's prowess becomes evident. His EP not only resonates on a visceral level but also leaves the audience craving for more.This sonic journey is destined to linger in your memory long after the final note fades away, creating an enduring impact that transcends whatever boundaries of electronic music.
Diogo Silva, Nuno Fulgêncio and Rui Martins collectively go by the name Bardino. With their sound consisting of an inventive mix of
electronica, rock, jazz, the Porto-based trio are pushing their sound into unchartered waters. A feeling that will be reinforced after
experiencing their new album, ‘Memória da Pedra Mãe’.
Their enthralling music draws upon the imagery of the beautiful and rugged scenery of their home country. ‘Centelha’ , their previous
album (released by Saliva Diva in 2020) was recorded in Chaves,
in the very remote region of Trás-os-Montes. Their 207 EP of the same name was created in the rustic heart of Serra das Meadas. In this
latest offering, the mention of "Pedra Mãe" (Mother Stone), refers to a rare geological phenomenon popularly known as "breeder stones"
found in isolated, deserted, and inhospitable places. On the inspiration of the new album, they explain that they want to refer to "the
importance of collective memory in the cohesion and identity of communities and the process of creating new memories, a process that
is both natural and conflicting, since it mirrors a tension between past, present and future".
The album was recorded in the summer of 2023 at Arda Recorders in Porto and produced by João Brandão and Rui Martins. In this
new material, Bardino's resources expand: Nuno Fulgêncio's drums, Diogo Silva's bass and Rui Martins' veritable arsenal of keyboards
(acoustic and electric piano, various synthesisers) are augmented by the alto and tenor saxophones of Brian Blaker (who stands out in
"Memória" and "Black Mica"), the guitar of Leonardo Outeiro (who features on "Punctum No 2") and, already indicating their affiliation
with the Porto label Jazzego, Hugo Oliveira, who records as Minus & MRDolly (and is a guest on "Pedra Mãe") and Sérgio Alves, aka
AZAR AZAR (who plays piano and Moog on "Tília"). Bardino's entry into the increasingly unavoidable Jazzego catalogue also reinforces
their obvious links to a new wave of projects that have been experimenting with different tangents to the notion of "jazz", taking this
music as part of a wider set of coordinates.
Over the course of eight tracks, and clearly benefiting from the distinct imprint of the recognised quality work of João Brandão, one of
Portugal's current best producers, Bardino presents dense, deeply cinematic music of the highest definition, in which the different
instruments translate a broad emotional and visual landscape, with solos of enormous elegance arranged over grooves that induce the
idea of movement. All the musical coordinates mentioned earlier are present, but perhaps in this new material you can feel a greater
fluidity, certainly the result of honing the vision of the central trio through a vast experience collected on stages all over the country. And
there are even echoes of a decidedly Portuguese songbook, as is so clearly felt in "O Semeador", something new in the range of aesthetic
references embraced by Bardino. This is, in fact, music that thrives on a benign tension between past, present and future, in the sense
that it embraces traditions and history, seeks a new framework in this diverse now and dares to project itself forward. Because the future
is the best of all locations.
repressed !
Office 04 circles in memories: The record is about Johannes 'Iron Curtis' Paluka's time at Karl-Marx-Straße Berlin where he used to live next door to label head Baaz and graphic designer Chris Fladung.
A1 track 'Magnet' is an ecstatic piece of house music holding all elements IC's production is esteemed and loved for : Heavy, unrelenting kicks, rolling bass lines, shimmering pads, topped with searing hot yet gamelan-like synts and an icing of slightly loose, detuned organ stabs predesting grand emotions on any dance floor. 'What happened happened' surely marks up as another proof of Curtis' fearless takes on house music: distorted field recordings and blurred spoken words, a web of gossamer melodies and subtle clicks and cuts, all cohered by the louche bassline and the reshuffled groove in a true dilla-ish vein.
Adapting elements to their own agenda, clandestine groove explorers Berg turn 'What happened' into a true midnight roller: razor-sharp hihitas join forces with a steam-maschine like percussion, whipping relentlessly in-between kick drum and kick drum. Berg cools off their take with prancing melody motifs and strung out pads of the original track, though never loosing focus of the 'reductions' aim: keep the dancer dancing.
Dedicated to the captivating essence of feminine expression, this album pulsates with deep bass and raw emotion. This release is more than just notes and beats; it's a celebration of diversity, creativity, and the profound impact of music on our hearts and souls. Each track is a unique reflection of its creator, showcasing an array of styles and perspectives.
The journey continues…fasten your seat belt and enjoy your galactic trip to the unknown.
Phil Robertson, the name behind Arbilla and his new vinyl release on Xistence Records, Movement EP features an original track and 2 remixes by the Australian masters Biz (Peter Elmaloglou/Cliq, Subjekt, Transmat) and Microworld (Philip McGarva/Styrax,Curle,Transmat). Each track brings it’s own special vibe to the listener, you can expect a truly adventurous record…
A side: original track is with nice 808 drum works what drives this one forward, hypnotic and soulful stripped back tune.
Biz remix definitely has energy and deep emotional content, melodic touches for the soul.
Inner track on B side from Microworld, deep and effective techno groove with distorted kicks what gives an extra character for the trippy sound.
Early support from Rolando, Colin Dale and Raresh
É Soul Cultura captain, originator of Manchester’s legendary Electric Chair and definitive people’s champion, Luke Una taps into a lifetime’s worth of musical discovery for the second volume in our Mr Bongo Edits series. A cosmic coming together that sees two of Luke’s secret weapons, re-edited and re-contextualised by the man himself to provide optimal dancefloor euphoria.
A stalwart of the underground for nearly 40 years, Luke has become an appointed leader of the late night disenfranchised, with an unquestionable ability to pick records that make minds tick. Not least through his two É Soul Cultura compilations released on Mr Bongo over the past two years.
A taste that traverses genres as much as it does emotions and decades, who better to give an insight into the tracks he has chosen to edit, than the man himself. “I've been an avid collector of afro-beat house, techno and underground black heart disco since before the basement soul days of Electric Chair 30 years ago. Both these bombs were very much holy grail finds, plucked from the last four decades of digging in random crates of dusty vinyl all over the world.”
First up, Thandi Zulu & The Young Five’s interpretation of Pure Energy’s early ‘80s disco power play – ‘Love Game’. With a distinctive South African synth bass and killer keys combo, Luke explains the original has this “bonkers alchemy of heavy machine soul, uptempo rawness and a majestic disco evangelism”, making it ripe for a re-edit.
On the B side, Lionel Pillay’s Jazz dancer ‘Plum’. “The original was a relentless 18-minute raw jam”, Luke states, “which despite its late ‘70s South African origin kinda reminded me of a 1986 Chicago piano House record”.
“These edits strip the tracks back and rebuild them, giving them more sonic weight with that looped up drum jacking militancy from the days of Chicago, combined with a boosted sense of transcendental, psychedelic, cosmic disco. They have always had such an explosive reaction on so many dancefloors including the heavier electronic club, so it felt only right to reshare them”.
The scenic artist and multi-instrumentalist CLARAGUILAR moves from performing arts to cinema as a composer and live performer. Over the last few years he has created soundscapes that blend electronics and sampled elements with orchestral arrangements, becoming one of the main names of the Spanish theater scene when it comes to soundtrack and sound design creation.
After her acclaimed EP 'Mystery is All' Lapsus is proud to present 'Figura', CLARAGUILAR's debut album, a heartfelt tribute to her connection with the scenic world, and especially with the operatic universe. The starting point of this project was born with the concept of an "invisible orchestra", an imaginary that aesthetically becomes a reality on stage thanks to the collaboration with the Barcelona studio Oscila, as well as with the help of the stylist Joan Ros, who has been in charge of the costume design.
'Figure' is a space in which electronica, ambient, and chamber-pop coexist; all under an operatic halo full of drama. Once again, the producer locked herself down from late 2022 to the beginning of 2023 to compose all the tracks in a very intimate and closed composition process. The album dives into the melodic landscapes, merged with orchestral samples and chopped voices containing mysterious messages inside.
Each track is a pixelated lightshow and a live electronic instrumentation, presented onstage as an elegant performance with an expansive emotional range
2024 repress!
The dynamic NZ brother duo known from Mule Musiq, Rhythm Section and their own In Dust We Trust impresses with a superb collaborative EP of highly emotional music!
‘Emotional Intelligence’ fills the A-side seeing them team up saxophonist and fellow kiwi jazz legend Nathan Haines and South London’s own Dave Koor aka. Modified Man.
On the flip-side they join forces with Chicago’s Lee Pearson Jnr (he's known for his writing for Larry Heard), K. LaDawn on vocals and rising star Joe Armon-Jones on keys.
A blissful experience throughout and another demonstration of "Chaos In The CBD’s" with maturing, amazing production skills!
Hope, you enjoy.
Hailing from Normandy (France), YOU SAID STRANGE offer an indie rock sound made up of psych pop-rock, shoegaze and proto-grunge. The band's music is the work of passionate musicians, combining the dazzling power of their instruments and the union of their voices to create a fusion of melancholy and energy. The band recorded their 1st album, Salvation Prayer, in 2018 in Portland (USA), with Peter G. Holmstrom from The Dandy Warhols. Seduced, the iconic Kevin Cole invites them to perform live in the studios of the prestigious KEXP radio, where their next project will emerge. At the end of 2021, Thousand Shadows Vol.1 is released. Then, after defending it on European and American stages, comes its sequel Thousand Shadows Vol.2 in 2023.
"TRADE YOUR SOUL" plunges us into the complex exploration of human relationships, love, trust and disillusionment, addressing several universal themes in an introspective way. This post-rock tale unfolds as a metaphorical journey of spirituality through life's most intense and intimate emotions and experiences.
YOU SAID STRANGE continues to combine abstract and concrete indie rock with psych-rock, post-punk, shoegaze and indus, inviting listeners to reflect ever more deeply. Nevertheless, "TRADE YOUR SOUL" marks a significant milestone for the band, with a more striking musical approach and a number of innovations, while remaining the work of passionate musicians who combine the dazzle of instruments and the union of voices to fuse melancholy and energy.
Introducing "Solace", a captivating 6-track EP by dubstep virtuoso Bukkha.
Crafted amidst the stillness of 2020's turmoil, far from all the noise pollution of everyday life, each track is like an unique demonstration of Bukkha's emotional state throughout these tumultuous times. "What came out was not forced and was just a very natural and fluid process" said Bukkha about working on this EP.
"Solace" also features an exclusive collaboration with soulful Drum & Bass artist Redeyes.
Embark on this heartfelt musical journey where Bukkha's passion and authenticity resonate through every note. As Bukkha eloquently puts it, ''I have always found comfort in music. I hope that the people listening to this record will find solace in it as well.''
Chicago? Absolutely! Detroit? Definitely! For many, however, a significant chapter in the coming-of-age story of House music was also written in The Netherlands.
This 8-track compilation is the result of a nationwide search for lost Digital Audio Tapes (DAT’s), dusty home-studio recordings, and other relics from those early days. The distinctive "House" sound eventually evolved into a rainbow of local styles and grooves. Back then, DJ’s played their heart out and didn’t limit themselves to any particular musical genre. Following that spirit, this compilation contains everything that makes the Dutch sound so special, from energetic Breaks to atmospheric Deep House.
These are not your usual suspects, not even the most revered diggers have this collection at their fingertips. It's raw, pure material from the time when house parties were fresh and dirty at the same time. Back when the only dress code was a wide smile from ear to ear. Four sides with two tracks each, ensuring maximum DJ enjoyment. Now get out there and spread the Dutch 90's House vibes!
- A1: Prelusion
- A2: Do We Become Sky?
- A3: The Past Is Always Following Close Behind
- A4: Empty Lake, Empty Streets...the Sun Goes Down Alone
- B1: Etrograde
- B2: Cavanaugh Bay
- B3: Another Heart In Need Of Rescue
- C1: Devastation Is The Path To Recreation
- C2: Time Won't Forget What You Meant To Me
- D1: Moments Bruise & Bleed
- D2: The Return
- D3: Coda
NOCOVER[37,61 €]
Washington's Slow Dancing Society aka Drew Sullivan has gone long here: Do We Become Sky? is a deeply immersive 86-minute work that very much rewards being listed to in one sitting. It is "a spiritual successor" to his 2008 album Priest Lake that draws upon feelings of loss, mostly using the tonality of the Korg Wavestation as a foundational instrument through the work. It features well-balanced boiling of tension with subtle moments of release, swelling harmonies, plucked guitars and evocative synth progressions that always keep things moving both physically and emotionally.
2024 of New Interplanetary Melodies begins with a new album and an EP signed by ABYSSY. The historical producer from Bologna who returns to Simona Faraone’s label after a few years since the release of his previous works, Magnetic Archive (NIM001,2016) under his alias Soulomon, and TWO Scorpions EP (NIM002, 2017) under the name ABYSSY, which marked NIM’s adventure in the world of contemporary Italian independent record labels. “Extra Meta" was born from the passion for a certain electronic sound ecosystem of the 70s and 80s, a journey that embraces minimalism of the “Berlin school” and extends to the beating heart of the soul/funk of Detroit techno. A journey into the abyss of emotions and the unknown of the human spirit, as the deep darkness of the ocean intertwines with the unfathomable darkness of space. An invitation to explore new sound boundaries, to let yourself be lulled by waves that repeat without ever repeating themselves and to immerse yourself in the reflective mystery of discovery and of evolution, a dance in darkness and light, and where the abyss of emotion merges with the infinity of imagination: ABYSSY.
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 350 copies limited edition: 12"" with 4 new special Remixes by Hear & Now, Manu Archeo, Mushrooms Project and Ocean Moon + CD with 6 previously unreleased Original songs + Insert.
For the latest essential offering from Archeo Recordings, Infradisco harness the power of the Po, serving a six-part suite inspired by the life giving power and natural beauty of water. An immersive journey through balmy downbeat, Balearic melancholy, smooth jazz and subtle house, the ‘Aqua Cheta’ CD comes accompanied by a diverse 12" of remixes from Hear & Now, label head Manu Archeo, Mushrooms Project and Ocean Moon. Album opener “Caduca” evokes the energy of an Umbrian waterfall, its spheric bassline growing ever more acidic before falling away as focus shifts onto the misty pads and plangent guitar.
The gentle bossa rhythm of “Dulcis” transports us to the confluence of the Rio Negro and the Amazon, where a snaking bassline underpins beguiling horns and subtle Sade-sque chords progressions. On “Fluminea”, the trio return to the heart of Reggio Emilia, following the fluctuation of the river Po, which runs past their studio, in an exquisite example of tension and release. Awash with emotion, both via the piano and redolent woodwind, this heady track intersects melodic house and Balearic trance, prompting horizontal dancing and skyward gazes. The tone shifts through the pensive and propulsive “Marina”, a sax led masterpiece accented with gorgeous acoustic guitar, before the tabla beat and emotive sitar of “Pluvia” add intensity to a slow-flowing piece of progressive house.
The CD closes with the cinematic splendour of “Surgiva”, an expansive ambient composition which sees delay-drenched fretwork tug at our heartstrings.
"Systolic" was conceived in the aftermath of K.A.L.I.L.'s experience with a stroke. During his hospitalization, he meticulously captured the rhythmic cadence of his own heartbeat during a medical examination, intending to incorporate this unique audio into a potential musical composition. Endeavoring to articulate the myriad emotions he grappled with during the challenging days when half of his body was nearly paralyzed, the song came to fruition.
The composition intricately weaves together the tumultuous thoughts that permeated K.A.L.I.L.'s mind with moments of solace. The distinctive presence of his recorded heartbeats permeates the entire track, rendering it a profoundly special and vibrant narrative of this pivotal moment in his life. Augmented by melodies that poignantly convey elements of fear, love, and self-awareness throughout the ordeal, the rolling bass line sustains an energetic undercurrent, laying the groundwork for a formidable and intense drop that serves as a visceral impact.
Vinyl Only. Limited.
MixCult Records unveils a new sub division of forthcoming releases under the name of 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.
Tamizdat Records proudly presents an EP that celebrates the substance of dub techno. With "Sunlight," Genning invites you to experience the depth and warmth of his sound, weaving a tapestry of sonic landscapes that resonate with the soul. This vinyl-only release is a testament to the label's commitment to quality and the enduring artistry of Genning, promising an immersive and unforgettable musical experience for audiophiles and enthusiasts alike.
This meticulously curated EP consists of four tracks, each contributing to a sonic journey that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Genning's ability to craft expansive soundscapes is evident, as "Sunlight" explores a wide emotional palette through a diverse range of sounds.
Immerse yourself in the hypnotic rhythms and atmospheric textures that define Genning's signature style. From the pulsating basslines to the ethereal melodies, each track on "Sunlight" captures a distinct mood, inviting listeners into a realm where the boundaries between genres blur.
Record Kicks presents Keep It To Yourself, the new album by premier Dutch soul band The Tibbs, out next January 26th.
Dutch vintage soul combo The Tibbs are back with their highly anticipated new album Keep It to Yourself, to be released on LP, CD and digital format next January 26th on Milan-based label Record Kicks. Produced by Paul Willemsen (Michelle David) and mastered in Nashville by soul veteran Bob Olhsson, who used to cut vinyl for Motown back in the day, the new album Keep It to Yourself is the band's third Long Play. It contains 12 fresh 'n vibrant tracks that once again will take you back to the golden days of soul music. Prepare to be swept away on a groovy, soulful odyssey with one the most sensational and enchanting soul bands from the Netherlands!
From the very first note, The Tibbs' musical prowess exudes a soulful, funky energy that is nothing short of mind-blowing. Among the 12 new tracks of Keep it To Yourself, we find the first single "Ain't It Funny", a high-energy stomper that sets the tone for the entire album, the New Orleans funk inspired "Can't Teach an Old Dog New Tricks" and "Chicken Bones, "In Orbit", an emotional and heartfelt love ballad that allows the velvety vocals of singer Roxanne to take center stage or the northern soul belter "Give Me A Reason".
Lyrically, Keep It to Yourself is a poetic wonderland, delving into the depths of love, heartache, but also social issues and the need to preserve the world we're in. Roxanne's vocals, rich and velvety, take you on a euphoric journey through the peaks and valleys of human emotion. The harmonious blend of the horn section weaves an exhilarating tapestry of sound that can only be described as a symphonic supernova. The rhythm section is an unstoppable force, driving each track with a pulsating groove that is pure sonic adrenaline. Keep It to Yourself is a true tour de force, a symphony of soul that will leave you awe-inspired, foot-tapping, heart-soaring, and utterly enthralled.
Based around Amsterdam, The Tibbs is a group of seasoned musicians who draw inspiration from the timeless music of the 1960s, channeling the emotional depth and raw authenticity of that era's classics. Led by their charismatic female vocalist and backed by a powerhouse lineup of drums, guitar, bass, organ and a three-piece horn section, they have been wowing audiences with their live performances. They took off in 2012 working right from the start with producer Paul Willemsen (Beans & Fatback, Lefties Soul Connection, Michelle David & The Gospel Sessions). In 2016, their first LP Takin' Over marked their debut with Milan-based imprint Record Kicks. In late 2018, singer Elsa Bekman decided to focus on a solo career and The Tibbs duly began their search for a truly worthy successor, bringing astonishing vocalist Roxanne Hartog and the band together for the first time with their sophomore album Another Shot Fired, released in November 2020. Now, with their third album Keep It to Yourself, a testament to their dedication to keeping the soulful spirit alive, The Tibbs are once more ready for lift off.
Saeko Killy, Jamie Paton, Andrei Rusu and Anastasia Zems remix “Kraus is the Limit” by the Zurich electronic-wave duo Dâdalus & Bikarus and take the original to new dimensions.
“Kraus is the Limit (Remixes)” preserves the raw energy and emotion of Dâdalus & Bikarus’ live performances while introducing new textures. It is not merely a collection of remixes but an intimate experience that invites listeners to rediscover the original tracks through the lenses of Saeko Killy, Jamie Paton, Andrei Rusu and Anastasia Zems.
Saeko Killy translates Voran into a mesmerizingly timeless journey that is even more kraut-y and space-y. Jamie Paton brings his distinctive style to the table by adding laidback and dubby vibes to Gone and Youri Gagarine. Andrei Rusu strippes down Tous Tes Mensonges, creating a sonic whirlwind that takes the listener on an thrilling and hypnotic ride. Anastasia Zems’ take on Voran lets us wallow in the depths of an acid abyss. A tripped-out experience is guaranteed.
Repress!
When Network Records originally issued “Innovator” in 1991 we knew that the music contained within was timeless. At that time, of course, we had no grasp of how well Derrick’s epic soundscapes would time travel. We christened the collection - “Soundtrack For The Tenth Planet” - because it seemed like the music (and Derrick) had indeed arrived from another world.
The release has been acclaimed as iconic because Derrick, the madcap and maverick philosopher of Detroit Techno, introduced the concept of dance music with a musical and emotional agenda way beyond anything that had come before. Beats with beauty. Literally the strings of life. Where fellow musical geniuses Chic had previously urged everybody to simply "Dance, Dance, Dance" mood alchemist Mayday merged simple yet cerebral dreamscapes with strange and urgent complex dance rhythms and invited us all to Dance And Dream. And in a strange juxtaposed way helped birth the hedonistic Acid House scene with classics “Nude Photo” and “Strings Of Life”
The energy is frenetic, but merged with a new age ambience. The gems collected on this offering were iconic in 1991, now they cause mass hysteria when Derrick turns his one time musical experiments, created in a tiny room in Detroit, and turns them into epic concerts with orchestras and musicians across the globe. “Hand In Hand” existed in 1991 and we wanted to release it then, but it’s taken until now for the complete 13 minute recording to finally meet the world.
It will be revered, because like all of Derrick May’s music it is life affirming. Emotions Electric indeed.
The original “Innovator” release was housed on one single slab of wax. This time around we have expanded it to two discs to make space for “Hand Over Hand” and also so everything elsewhere - masterpieces remastered - can be presented in a complete and superior fashion. Whatever the tweaks, changes and updates etc all these years on, this music still sounds gloriously alien and groundbreaking. But there’s still no Tenth Planet.
"Innovator" remastered by Curvepusher, London 2019. Re-presented by Network Records in conjunction with Derrick May.
After over a decade as a digital-only album, Larry Manteca's Zombie Mandingo gets its first vinyl release, making a fresh comeback in a completely renewed version.
Like Manteca's previous full-length releases, this album too is conceived as a soundtrack to a non-existent exploitation film, drawing inspiration from the classic Italian B-movies of the 1970s. This time, cinematic references encompass both the zombies found in Lucio Fulci's horrors and the cannibalistic adventures directed by Umberto Lenzi, creating a strange mash-up between Jacopetti's Mondo Cane and Deodato's Cannibal Holocaust.
The setting is an unspecified island in the Atlantic Ocean, nestled halfway between equatorial Africa and the Caribbean. A handful of Western tourists, having miraculously survived a plane crash, collide with the age-old rituals of an indigenous tribe who perform human sacrifices to appease their local god—the Zombie Mandingo of the title—a monstrous creature with superhuman strength, half Haitian zombie, half African cannibal.
This fusion of genres and cultures is reflected in the music. Manteca creates horror-tinged exotica that evokes and re-imagines the soundscapes of distant lands and dreamlands, from Africa to South America, to the mysterious islands in the Bermuda Triangle. He boldly and brilliantly combines Les Baxter with Fela Kuti, Joe Zawinul with Piero Umiliani, Janko Nilovic with KPM libraries, sprinkling the mixture profusely with psychedelia, Afro-groove, and Italian soundtrack vibes.
The album's nine tracks, recorded between 2013-2019, were meticulously remixed and remastered in 2023. This process made it possible to add new solo instruments, including the Fender Rhodes on the title track. The result is a captivating, kaleidoscopic journey taking us into the sonic depths of the tropical jungle to unveil its dark secrets and surrender to the primary emotions behind every B-movie: action, adventure, erotic desire, and fear.
The album is embellished with a 650-gram hardcover sleeve featuring breathtaking artwork by Matteo Fumagalli.
i 09: Zombie Mandingo (Trailer Music) Remastered
Broken Techno/Electronica label Theoretical Rhythms is back with another vinyl release. This time it is a 4-track compilation EP called "Confessions". Featuring a carefully curated selection of tracks from diverse artists, "Confessions" takes you on a journey through emotions, melodies, and introspective narratives. Each track serves as a musical confession, laying bare the artists' innermost thoughts and experiences. The compilation opens with Varna's own Virtually J who masterfully sets the tone for the entire collection with his composition. From there, listeners are guided through a sonic landscape that seamlessly blends genres, showcasing the rich tapestry of musical expression. London duo Getae are showcasing their talent with the dance floor filler "Stumble" and Getsu opens the door to another dimension with his story "Otklonenie". With its minimal composition, broken beats and various effects Getsu invites us to divert from our path and experience another world. The EP concludes with Nickel Eye's "Lodi", a story that starts on a darker side with repetitive rhythm to transform to a jazz epos.
"Confessions" is more than just a compilation; it's an exploration of vulnerability and authenticity. Each artist bares their soul through their music, creating a connection with the audience that goes beyond the surface. "We wanted to create a compilation that goes beyond the ordinary, something that resonates on a deep, emotional level," says Nickel Eye, Theoretical Rhythms' head honcho. "This project is about sharing our musical confessions and inviting others to do the same". With its innovative approach to storytelling through sound, "Confessions" promises to be a standout in the music landscape, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in a musical experience that is both intimate and expansive. "Confessions" is a testament to the power of music to connect, inspire, and evoke raw, authentic emotions. Press play and embark on a journey of musical confessions.
Purple Vinyl Repress is coming
One of Smiths favourite pieces of music, At Les, has been a remix target of his for a long time but earlier this year inspiration and motivation combined and resulted in two brilliant interpretations which were immediately sent to Carl Craig, purely out of respect. Craig loved them, granted his permission and approval for a special remix package release on Tronic and now, here we are with one of the biggest releases of 2010.
Delivered in both Tronic Treatment and Hypnotica Remix forms, Smith has taken the originals warmth, musicality and emotion and given them the sort of energy and power which has made him one of the most bankable producers of recent years.
The Tronic Treatment remix starts slow but with careful and patient layering of melodies builds to an epic, peak time track which takes on an almost orchestral feel while the aptly titled Hypnotica Remix takes a slightly more aggressive, loopier and hypnotic take.
Repressed on Clear Vinyl for 2022
Dave Clarke Very good, congratulations!
Slam awesome mixes. played last night - a classic just got better really love both mixes
Laurent Garnier what a classy remix of this stunning classic—Will play everywhere and will playlist on the radio BRAVO
John Digweed "Massive!" Both Remixes!
Dubfire "Christian has managed to do a great remix of a timeless classic which is both reverent and of the moment. Well done! I closed with it at Awakenings festival and it sounded wicked!"
Adam Beyer Love the "Hypnotica" remix that Christian made. Been playing it over and over and it was one of the biggest trax during WMC for me!
James Zabiela Oh My God!!!!!! Going on my essential mix that was meant to be handed in this morning. Re-working to fit this in. ANTHEM!!!!!
Trushmix the now well known underground mix series created by DJ Fett Burger and L.A.2000, and still going strong since 2011, providing underground talent and spreading vibes in a vibrant small community of music lovers. After 13 years of Trushmix, it is about
time to make a record to celebrate this! The initially plan was to make it as a 10 year anniversary release. Now it's 13 years, even better! So Trushwax is born!
A three track 12 " with underground house and techno tracks, recorded and produced by DJ Fett Burger and L.A.2000 between 2010-2021. Three simple, rough and emotional underground cuts in the vein of Trushmix!
"Trush Your Body" The opening track and the newest production of the three. A melodic house track, with the classic 909-groove and some acid! Driving and dreamy at the same time, and also with a melancholy twist. A place where simplicity and emotions meet!
The second track "Hello Awreibody" underground club track based on a live recording from 2010, with a distinct driving bass line, 808 beats and a big deep melody that gives the tack a massive feel! Rough underground club and basement style!
"Quack" the last track on the record, also based on a live recording from 2010, a rough live sounding recorded track with a groovy classic 707 workout, a soft bass line and a strong touch of melodic elements to keep the track deep, mysterious and driving.
There is a parallel, submerged dimension in which musicians meet when they improvise. Sound microcosms emerge in those moments, and this is precisely the magic that BOTTAZZ! wanted to photograph in their first album: BOTTAZZ! VOL.1.
A "live" album, capable of transmitting spontaneity, sonic truths, empathy, feelings; ingredients that are difficult to transmit by recording the instruments individually or with other techniques.
Recorded in the historic "Auditorium 900" studios, a true time achine, as well as an institution for music in Naples.
Auditorium 900 took up the challenge in the figure of sound engineer Fabrizio Piccolo and from here the sound of BOTTAZZ was born!
A sound made up of lysergic Funk trips, 70's influences in all possible nuances: from progressive funk to Santana's Hispanic rock, up to touching its darkest and most hidden latitudes; audio waves
nfluenced by the soundtracks of the cinematography linked to those times, organs, synths, percussion and wah wah guitars, which generate a melting pot in which nothing is taken for granted.
BOTTAZZ! VOL.1 is a ship's diary, a journey into which each sailor has inserted its own emotions accumulated over the years, thus giving us a sincere and genuine record. Happy navigation.
Compiling scattered early works by Erin Hopes. 160bpm+, ultra-emotional dream-tekno>neo-trance>space tracks. Romantic/relentless, up/down, weary/wired. Fed on gabber, dressed by Juicy Couture, watched over by Paris Hilton (mk1).
Erin Hopes is a producer from Glasgow and operates the label Manic BB.
- A1: Dreamlover
- A2: Hero
- A3: Anytime You Need A Friend
- A4: Music Box
- A5: Now That I Know
- B1: Never Forget You
- B2: Without You
- B3: Just To Hold You Once Again
- B4: I’ve Been Thinking About You
- B5: All I’ve Ever Wanted
- B6: Everything Fades Away
- C1: All I Live For (Extended Version)
- C2: Endless Love (Duet With Luther Vandross)
- C3: Do You Think Of Me
- C4: Workin’ Hard
- C5: My Prayer
- D1: Hero (2009 Version)
- D2: Anytime You Need A Friend (Extended Mix)
- D3: Music Box (A Capella)
- D4: Dreamlover (Live From Top Of The Pops)
- D5: Without You (Live From Top Of The Pops)
- E1: Dreamlover (Def Club Mix)
- E2: Anytime You Need A Friend (C&C Club Version)
- F1: Anytime You Need A Friend (Soul Convention Remix)
- G3: Smeday (Live At Proctor’s Theater, Ny – 1993)
- G4: Without You (Live At Proctor’s Theater, Ny – 1993)
- G5: Make It Happen (Live At Proctor’s Theater, Ny – 1993)
- H1: Dreamlover (Live At Proctor’s Theater, Ny – 1993)
- H2: Love Takes Time (Live At Proctor’s Theater, Ny – 1993)
- H3: Anytime You Need A Friend (Live At Proctor’s Theater, Ny – 1993)
- H4: Vision Of Love (Live At Proctor’s Theater, Ny – 1993)
- H5: I’ll Be There (Featuring Trey Lorenz) (Live At Proctor’s Theater, Ny – 1993)
- F2: I’ve Been Thinking About You (Terry Hunter Remix)
- F3: Workin’ Hard (Terry Hunter Remix)
- G1: Emotions (Live At Proctor’s Theater, Ny – 1993)
- G2: Hero (Live At Proctor’s Theater, Ny – 1993)
Here is the second release on Silvi, "Aya EP" by Head Honcho Roy Brizman. This time, he presents three of his productions, skillfully blending emotion and rhythm.
Opening the EP is 'Aya,' the title track, which has resonated deeply in the clubbing scene over the past year. It serves as a personal homage to Roy's wife, Aya, and is sure to evoke a whirlwind of emotions with every play.
Following that, we have 'That Blissful Morning' on B1. This track takes you on an introspective sonic journey, pushing beyond conventional boundaries. A euphoric wave strikes at the heart, ushering in a profound sense of bliss.
Rounding out the trio is 'Control' on B2, a must-have in the arsenal of every serious selector. It's the kind of tune that seamlessly fits into any set, making transitions both smooth and impactful.
SILVI002, Aya EP, stands out as a diverse and engaging offering in the electronic landscape, appealing to both avid followers of Roy Brizman and those new to his sound. It's an EP poised to make a mark and leave a lasting impression, as Roy continues to build on his renowned reputation.
Like a phoenix from the ashes, or Ukrainian culture after centuries of demolition, the Kyiv based label Noneside Records is experiencing its revival and rebirth. After all, «Nothing will stop an idea whose time has come» - these words of chief Stepan Bandera make it clear to everyone: if you really burn with sincere emotion for your dream - no difficulties will stop you on the way to its realization.
Five unique tracks from Slava Los, Yevhenii Loi, Lostlojic, Luschn and aqua. - is a tech house with elements of trance with soul and passion from musicians who write music despite the war. Visualization of the whole action on the record is the picture «The hug» by the Lviv artist Oles Derega.
Slava Los makes his debut on vinyl with the beautiful track «Snus» - old school trance in the best traditions. The author now defends the borders in the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, so he decided to fulfill his old dream about the vinyl. Yevgeny Loi is also currently in the military, but this did not prevent him from making a new version of «Bounce» - a trance for a slow, erotic dance mood. Lostlojic, who is also the art director of the project, recalls the important message of «Send Me F16» in the uncompromising track of the same name, or rather in its VIP version created especially for the release.
Known to vinyl collectors for releases on Deeptrax and Infinite Pleasure. Luschn, a Kyiv legend and mega productive musician, known to tech house maniacs for his releases on Vector.Kyiv and Noneside, invites you to have fun and crazy dances with friends to his rehearsed «Ostinato Transdanz». Newbie aqua. has a unique recognizable style, where the rhythm is constantly changing in each track, nostalgic for the favorite place of childhood - near the Hydroelectric Station in Zaporizhzhia, crazy beats and steppe motifs in the track «H.E.S.».
There are two versions of the vinyl - classic black and triple-color limited Indie Shop edition.
Both have special insert inside with the bands bio and photos.
Generacja JAZZ is a project showing a fragment of the new wave of Polish jazz, treading its own path, creating, touring and jamming across Europe. Borders don't exist - especially musical - the new generation is engaging with nightclubs, festivals and playlists. The time has now come to show its broader perspective. We created a project which involves a handful of groups that have already racked up debut albums and festival wins, as they set out on their musical odyssey. The groups also have other things in common, like their passion, originality and, for the needs of the project, age - all the artists during the recording of this album were under 30 years old. This is the new generation - the Jazz Generation.
For the Jazz Generation record we invited five bands who had already released debut albums: Immortal Onion, Klawo, Rejoin, Twoosty Mayonez and USO 9001. We also reserved two spots on the compilation for the winners of our open call competition, whereby on the basis of the jury's choice (jury: Monika Borzym, Paulina Przybysz, Envee, Wojtek Mazolewski i Marcin Groh Grośkiewicz) we met the winning bands: Kosmos and quietet.
The sleeve artist is Kornelia Nowak, who won our open call for young designers and graphic artists. Here once again we could rely on the opinion of a prestigious jury comprised of: Beata Śliwińska Barrakuz, Bovska, Maciej Animisiewasz Grochot, Grzegorz Forin Piwnicki i Marcin Groh Grośkiewicz.
Generacja JAZZ LP is also a start of the new imprint - U JAZZ ME, which will be focused on jazz from Poland.
And here are the bands from the album:
1. Immortal Onion - A band from the Tri-City playing a broad spectrum of instrumental music.
Band members: Wojtek Warmijak (percussion), Tomir Śpiołek (piano, synths), Ziemowit Klimek (Upright Bass, synths).
The band Immortal Onion has already established itself as one of the most interesting projects of the new wave of Polish jazz, and is consistently being labelled as such abroad. After two well received albums ("Ocelot of Salvation" (2017) and"XD Experience Design" (2020) U Know Me Records) they released their third album "Screens" in 2022, which was recorded with the well known Tri-City composer and saxophonist - Michał Jan Ciesielski.
The inspiration behind the band's formation were such artists as: Esbjörn Svensson, Hiromi Uehara, Tigran Hamasyan and Tosin Abasi.
The group's guiding principle from the very beginning was the fusion of often disparate musical styles, which bore "post instrumental aggressive gay pop". Despite the stylistic discrepancies, between which they swim, the group has forged its own identifiable language, characterised by complicated rhythmical structures, energetic riffs and trance beats with lyrical melodies.
The trio has performed its original material at many venues and festivals around Europe and Asia.
2. Klawo - seven adventurous adventurers from Gdańsk, who were brought together by their love for music, halvah and throwing Frisbee. Their self-named début album, released in 2022 on the local label Coastline Northern Cuts, is an amalgam of the inspirations of each of the team members and played backwards contains tips on how to reach the Kashubian pyramids. After a win at the international competition Jazz in the Park, held in Cluj-Napoca in Romania, the band began work on their second album. Meanwhile, they were also travelling the length and breadth of Poland on a mission to infect people with the idea of Baltic Funk.
3. Kosmos is a Łódż based jazz quintet. It was formed in 2020 by Pianist Stanisław Szmigero, Saxophonist Iwo Tylman and Trumpeter Jan Ostalski. However, it wasn't until 2022 that Kosmos found its true form when Kamil Gużniczak (Upright bass) and Kacper Kuta (Percussion) joined the line-up.
Their compositions are influenced by Polish yass bands, electronic music and hip-hop. Kosmos music is a mix of lyricism, space, intensity and elements of experiment.
The band members are all eccentric characters possessing different means of musical expression - looking at them, one could even argue they are a group of oddballs. Despite this, for reasons unbeknownst to themselves, the members of Kosmos complement each other on stage and form a unified artistic vision of the world around them.
Kosmos officially released their début single "Ja" in June 2023. They regularly play concerts across Poland and recently were selected as distinguished artists at JAZZiNSPIRACJE (JAZZiNSPIRATION) - a competition held during the 13th Lublin Jazz Festival.
4. Quietet (formed at the beginning of 2023) is the result of meetings between five talented musicians with a deep passion for musical creation. Its sound is a unique blend of Jazz and classical music with a hint of hard rock. The band is inspired by the Scandinavian approach to making music, which brings a characteristic atmosphere and melodies to their work. Their music captivates listeners with its originality, refined improvisations and flawless technique. Both classical and modern musical trends feed their inspiration when creating passionate and emotional compositions.
Their works are full of sound experimentation, which equally surprise and expose new musical horizons. Through their compositions, "Quietet" aims to share their emotions evoked during performances, creating a musical journey that affects and inspires.
5. Connecting jazz with electronic music in fresh interpretations, six young musicians make up the group Rejoin. The group re-formed in 2020 after a four-year break, playing their debut concert at Lotos Jazz Festival Bielska Zadymka Jazzowa. The musicians in Rejoin have performed alongside such artists as: Urszula Dudziak, Krystyna Prońko, Marcin Masecki, Szczyl, Kuba Więcek and Paulina Przybysz.
Most of the members of Rejoin are students from the Katowice Music Academy, where they also develop their own projects. Rejoin was a recipient of the Fabryki Norblin Music Masterclass Foundation scholarship.
6. Twoosty Mayonez is something your grandad would listen to with his younger sister. The non-standard approach to jazz alongside a pursuit of strange sounds, culminated in the conceptual album entitled "Carmin". The material was created by Bartosz Wolerta (percussion) and Dominik Kaniewski (bass guitar/synths). "Triceradiplodocus" tells the story of a mechanical dinosaur that lives on the yet undiscovered planet Carmin.
Hilltown Disco welcome's the excellent Luxus Varta to the label for the effective and powerful 'Retrofiction' EP.
A record with layers of intelligence and emotional synth work-outs. The sounds range from a melancholic A-side, touching on wave with more disturbed vocals on the B-side, all crafted with a woven spine of electro with serious pulsing basslines. Organised and articulated madness tracks for the club.
- A1: Loradeniz - Tegenlicht
- A2: Loradeniz - Tegenlicht
- A3: Loradeniz - Tegenlicht
- A4: Loradeniz - Tegenlicht
- A5: Loradeniz - Tegenlicht
- B1: Kems Kriol - Rotterdam In De Jaren 90
- B2: Kems Kriol - Rotterdam In De Jaren 90
- B3: Kems Kriol - Rotterdam In De Jaren 90
- B4: Kems Kriol - Rotterdam In De Jaren 90
- B5: Kems Kriol - Rotterdam In De Jaren 90
Nous'klaer Audio and Sound & Vision's RE:VIVE initiative have teamed up for the third and final LP in their film scoring trilogy. Capping off with a soundtrack made for a progressive, angular take on a color-soaked, geometric educational archival film. Combined with a soundtrack for a film that is a personal intensifier to the city of Rotterdam, which is the home of Nous'klaer Audio. The collaboration invites two musicians to compose for these archival films from the collection of Sound & Vision, the national media archive of the Netherlands. This final instalment features through and through Rotterdammer, Kems Kriol and the Amsterdam based Turkish composer, pianist and DJ Loradeniz. Kems Kriol accompanies the amateur documentary collage film "Rotterdam in de Jaren 90", a dark period of strife, economic and social crisis for the now booming metropolis, with the compassion and empathy of someone who experienced those years first-hand but with enough time removed to reflect with heart. Loradeniz angularly and precisely moves her way through the delicate film "Tegenlicht", a surprisingly colorful and fluid educational film about painting, a bold juxtaposition that propels the film into the 2020s. Extended info: Side A, Tegenlicht (English: back lit) is a 1969 education film by Ton Gramsbergen. The short meditative film, follows stained glass artist Leo Hofman through his entire workflow to create beautifully abstract stained glass window panes. Loradeniz?angularly and precisely moves her way through the delicate Tegenlicht creating a bold juxtaposition that propels the film into the 2020s. Employing processed vocal work, deep dry kicks, and jarring percussion-- reminiscent of scratching glass-- Loradeniz's haunting modernization suits the cinema and the club equally, a testament to the rising composer's fluid versatility and creative prowess as a musical pantomath. Side B, Rotterdam in de Jaren 90 directly contrasts the zoomed in artistry of Tegenlicht. The amateur documentary Super 8 footage captures Rotterdam in one of its most tumultuous times from police brutality, poverty, drugs, violence, racism and the city's ongoing architectural modernization. Kems Kriol, who lived in Rotterdam during this time period, brings a deeply emotional weight to the Ed Millecam amateur documentation, as an artist with the compassion and empathy of who experienced those years first-hand but with enough time removed to reflect with heart. Kems Kriol's influences from modern and avant garde composers, jazz, acid bass lines and field recording Kems Kriol made at different locations featured in the film equate to a musical collage wholly comparable to the city's diverse population. The prior installments in this series featured Nous'klaer Audio staples, Ranie Ribeiro, Mattheis, Thessa Torsing (upsamy) and Tammo Hesselink.
Grens is a Dutch duo who turned the heads of the Vrystaete label head with a self-released tape Geen Mens Die Op Mij Let. As such he has signed them up for this new album De Verborgen Kamer which he says is "a bit darker" than usual, but we love it. It is both organic yet dark electronic and sounds as much like a recording of a live performance as it does a meticulously crafted studio work. The six pieces are all heady ambient works that pair wispy pads and warm, glowing harmonies over occasional broken beats and suggestive rhythms. It's lo-fi, gritty and imperfect but with a very human sense of emotion.
Marina Herlop is often described as a pianist, a lingering remnant of her classical training. But what strikes the listener on Herlop’s breakout track miu is the intricate trickery of her voice, tracing rhythmical clusters around the subtlest of musical beds, in a technique inspired by Carnatic music of Southern India.
miu, the opening track of Herlop’s new studio album Pripyat, was among the first songs that the young Catalan artist made on a computer, after two albums – 2016’s Nanook and 2018’s Babasha – that brought spectral elegance to the sound of piano and voice. This spirit of adventure continues into Pripyat, Herlop’s first full album produced on a computer, and her most intensely emotional work to date.
Listening to Pripyat you can feel the emotional toil and creative endeavour that went into the record. Fans of Nanook and Babasha will recognise the combination of melancholic piano and elegant vocal lines that is found on Pripyat tracks like abans abans. But Pripyat has a far fuller, almost chaotic sound when compared to Herlop’s previous work, with the addition of electronic drums, electric bass lines and a wealth of sublime production effects.
The Label famous for its outstanding organic and melodic music, is thrilled to announce the release of Jacob Groening's
debut album, „TIMEFADES,“. This remarkable album is set to release on his own imprint digitally and on vinyl preorder on November 24, 2023.
"TIMEFADES" is an introspective and immersive collection of eight tracks that weaves a narrative from start to finish. Each song contributes to a story that is both dancefloor-ready and equally at home in intimate listening environments. Jacob Groening's unique ability to craft music that resonates on multiple levels is showcased in this extraordinary album.
In a significant departure from his previous works, Groening has seamlessly integrated sounds from his childhood into
"TIMEFADES." The album features a captivating blend of 80s synthesizers, which evoke a sense of nostalgia, harmonizing effortlessly with his signature organic sounds. The result is a sonic tapestry that not only captures the essence of the past but also propels it into the future.
An exciting and personal addition to "TIMEFADES" is Jacob Groening's own voice. For the first time in his career as a
producer, he lends his vocals to the album, offering a deeper connection to the listener. This newfound layer of intimacy elevates the emotional resonance of the music, making "TIMEFADES" a profoundly personal and moving experience.
One of the standout features of the album is Groening's discovery of the electric guitar as a primary composition tool. The
electric guitar weaves its magic throughout "TIMEFADES," adding layers of melodic complexity that captivate the senses and set this album apart from the artist's previous work.
Cosmological Record begins its journey with Red Shift EP, five original tracks produced by Roberto Manolio, with an experimental touch and abstract-style artwork by the young and talented Luca Maestro. Techno and house imprint for the first chapter, with various nuances ranging from acid to deep house, with a touch of electro and minimal sound,unite to sensual, thoughtful and direct vocals.
Its flow has the aim of channeling whatever kind of energy is emanated in that instant, creating a direct connection with its source of origin, favoring the perception of the key frequencies that fuel our spirit.
"Everything in the universe has a rhythm, everything in the universe dances"
This is a special cassette tape version of the recent album from zake, one of ambient's most prolific artists, alongside From Overseas on his own Past Inside The Present label. As always it is an almost impossibly deep ambient selection that once again finds him exploring fresh and always emotionally moving musical territory. Demain Des L'aube features eight tunes that convey real melancholia and have a gently persuasive sense of movement. Each one is vast in scale and sweeps you up and sinks you into the grainy lo-fi pads, wispy melodies and distant string-based sombreness.
A fourth vinyl arrives from Seattle/LA label Rhizome Records. The catalog returns to South America with 2 original productions from Gustavo Fridman of Buenos Aires, Argentina. An impressive up & coming DJ & producer, Gustavo Fridman has already released on underground labels Sous-Vide, Welter, and Tip Tap. Alongside the spacey originals, Romanian maestros Sublee and Ritmico (Emi & Suciu) offer expanded interpretations.
The title track “Dios Habla Hoy” kicks off the ep with cutting edge minimal percussion work and breezy atmospherics partnered with a celestial yet melancholy melody. The techy breakbeat and meandering effects deliver a nostalgic sound reminiscent of Cadenza classics.
Sublee’s remix of “Dios Habla Hoy” deconstructs and resynthesizes the original into a cosmic journey. While tones and texture remain, Sublee adds a massive groove to drive his trancy reinterpretation. Following the breakdown, synths cascade into eternity to create an emotional, dancefloor-tested moment.
“999” opens the record’s second side with a jazzy afterhours vibe. Mysterious and quirky effects add constant intrigue while the melody drifts about the punchy breakbeat.
Trip masterminds Emi & Suciu aka Ritmico are called upon to close out the record with a remix, and the result is a true weapon.Ritmico re-equips the original with powerful drums and an unrelenting groove. An array of unique and mental effects complete this deep space freak.
Ritmico re-equips the original with powerful drums and an unrelenting groove. An array of unique and mental effects complete this deep space freak.
written and produced by Gustavo Fridman in Buenos Aires, remixes by Sublee & Ritmico (Emi & Suciu)
Rudimentary Music garners worldwide high praise with their first release. A strong, fluid and very well-rounded EP with something for every electronic dance fan. The Barcelona based butItalian born artist Deiv, sets the foundation and tone with the stunning 'Paranoik Android' EP forthe fledgling label whose everyday life revolves around and embodies the synergy and spirit of dance music culture. 'Take control of your shit' is the first cut and is the ideal smooth late night electro jam. A sexy, melodic deep machine groove that is nothing short of pure class. Thishighly addictive track is sure to get many repeat plays. To complete the A-side is the technostormer 'Technology'. A body grabbing bassline that will surely get everyone's attention. Thiswicked,robotic workhorse is guaranteed to move the main room by any DJ who selects it.Inspired by the label's search for music that fits every part of life, this track encapsulates thepower of techno in the late night. The reverse side showcases the title track 'Paranoik Android'.It rides a strong balance of house and funk sentiments for the primetime slot on the dancefloor.The killer acid line, island percussion and blips and bleeps, makes this a great ying and yang of futuristic and retro sounds. The title track, it stands out from the crowd but here in this EP, it blends perfectly into the wide array of vibes blossoming here. 'Dolphins' closes out the EP inelegance. With the soothing almost aquatic melody notes it exudes the perfect vibe to drift away your cares to. Overall, this is a very versatile EP with a track for every emotion and time during a night out with dance music
Repress!
Visages present 'Lead To Gold' their debut long-player collection on the label after a string of successful releases. These 8 tracks showcase their continued versatility as producers alternating between 140 and 174 BPM. As certified members of the 1985 Music family, we also see label owner Alix Perez join the fold with 'Black Katanta' and fellow affiliate Monty on 'Ace Of Spaces'. The French foursome continue to make moves across underground dance and this LP is no doubt set to progress them.
A defining time for many musicians pursuing the arts of exploring sonic palettes is the moment of learning a song, an instrument and recording it. The procedure of selection and layering of sounds. The idea of dissolving this mysticism and truly being in control of something. The realisation that there’s a lot more enigma coinciding with simplicity in music that you may not have realised before and discovering new journeys from there on in. The knowledge of its technicality brought with a background in contemporary songwriting becomes a quest for sounds surrounded by layers of storytelling. To establish a sonic aesthetic that represents yourself and what you want to present to the listener.
The recording of Passerella took place at the end of the summer of 2022 over one week of isolation and songwriting in a house on the shoreside of the lake Lugano. Layered with references from a contemporary approach to 80s synth pop, post-punk and dark wave, with subconscious derivations of Canzone Italiana as a foundation for a musical piece derived from Infesta’s childhood listening habits. Bare genuineness, emotional and aggressive at the right places, the way in which music captures the purity of intense feelings. Infesta’s work is presented in a raw quality which intimates the listener with an aspect of humanity grippingly relatable.
Cemented songs with a focussed vision, Infesta’s dark yet familiar world is one confused but shared among us all. The conceptuality of a traditional album dissolving into a musical diary. The music within this record is a rendering of the importance of having these songs compiled side-by-side as a way of storytelling. To keep the same picture of the exposure of a person through their music. Conflicting inner thoughts frolicking side by side. A gentle hand caresse gleaned by an author to its listener.
Kelvin Krash – Musiker, visueller Designer, Produzent, multidisziplinärer Allround-Mastermind – veröffentlicht sein Debütalbum HARSH über die eigene Plattform Krashed. Selbst geschrieben, über einen Zeitraum von fünf Jahren produziert und gemischt, ist es ein ehrgeiziges, persönliches Werk, auf dem Krash' Synthesizer-getriebene Produktion mit roh-emotionalem Songwriting kollidiert. BLUE WHEELS und BRUISED heben Krash' eigene elektronisch bearbeitete Vocals hervor, hinzu kommen Gastauftritte von langjährigen Kollaborateuren wie A$AP Rocky (GET A GRIP) und Coucou Chloe (THIEF INDIE NACHT). In den letzten Jahren hat sich Kelvin Krash als führender Produzent im zeitgenössischen Rap etabliert, der mit A$AP Rocky, Skepta, Giggs, Jeshi, A$AP Twelvvy, Lancey Foux und Kasien zusammenarbeitet. Ltd. Auflage auf transparent-blauem Vinyl.
Repress
Embark on our new adventure with Luca Olivotto as he leads the sixth release on Small Great Things. This limited vinyl and digital EP marks the inception of a new release series featuring exclusive Small Great Things artists.
Showcasing four finely tuned tracks that seamlessly blend classic house vibes with contemporary beats, creating an irresistible dance floor experience.
On the A1 side, 'After the Beep' initiates the journey with a classic house groove and the sultry serenade of a smooth saxophone.
The title track, 'Love Transmission' on A2, takes the spotlight more on its infectious groovy bassline and captivating vocals.
Flipping over to the B side, 'Take Me' delves into deeper realms, offering a timeless track that resonates with raw emotion.
Closing the release on the B2 side, 'Redsape' delivers a classic house tune tailor-made for the dance floor.
Olivotto's expertise shines through, creating an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and cutting-edge, ensuring a brilliant journey on this 6th release.
Luca Olivotto's 'Love Transmission' EP is a testament to the evolving soundscape of Small Great Things. This collection promises to captivate enthusiasts and DJs alike.
Hannah Archimbault is a multidisciplinary French artist based in London. Hannah opens up her inner deep emotions throughout minimal sequences and loops of sustained and touching organ notes, with reminiscences of Philip Glass, Eva-Maria Houben, Harold Budd or Kali Malone and a contemporary vein that questions love in current times. "The EP came after a break up as I decided to compose in the process of going through this love grief and how you could grow from it, learn to love oneself after the break-up. Each song represents a different stage on this life chapter.". Indeed moving anger, sadness and acceptance are well represented on this sonic, brave redemption of the grief through the artform.
“Owelle”: frenchified word derived from the English expression “Oh well”. Repurposed by Valérie Siron as her pseudonym to reflect her work ethos: serious, but without making a fuss.
Surfacing from Geneva’s club culture with a graphic design background, Owelle’s drive to synergise the audio and the visual power her expression of creative identity. Her compositions are imagined and built without boundaries, albeit replete with nods to previous genres ranging from early 2000s breakbeat, braindance and broken beat techno.
Intrigued by sensory immersion, Owelle further laces her art with interactive tools including programming, sound spatialisation and installation. Diving into a spatiotemporal journey, subtly incorporating their uses into her musical works. By blending her passion for diligent sound designing, field recordings and psychedelic vocals is how Owelle presents her approach to experimental music. Owelle’s creativity offers an intrinsic connection of her tailored rhythms and melodies to birth an original hybrid of sound and visual art.
The music within this record questions the importance of sound in relation to the individual’s environment. To blur the border between noise and aesthetically pleasing. To ride the waves between discomfort and delight and to find the potentially hidden role of situational awareness and relating it to musical endeavours derived from the emotions within.
LTD repress !
With their new EP on their own label, Italian duo Orion deliver a record full of lowkey atmospherics, textures and sublime frequencies. 2 original tracks and 2 remixes from italian artists Primal Code and Luigi Tozzi.
“Lie” opens the record with those classic emotional elements coming out from a long cloudy day in the studio.
As previously heard on their Smoke Machine live podcast “Orange” plays with layers, cinematic pads and hypnotic drums.
On the flip Primal Code’s “Lie” version encapsulates their dreamy and tribal approach with an intricate acid bassline that will take you on a journey.
Luigi Tozzi’s dark and loopy remix is something for your brain. Subtle hypnotic melodies and roaring low frequencies are the main elements for this club version of “Lie”.
We are delighted to announce the first vinyl release on TBX Records that features an eclectic selection of tracks. The TRAX VA showcases the diverse talents of four exceptional artists who have come together to create a mesmerising sonic journey. The a-side track dives you into the world of Rich NxT as he crafts 'Bluefunk', a groovy and hypnotic track that's sure to get your feet moving.
Next up comes Perky Wires who bring a fresh perspective with 'Take the Beat UP'. This track is a masterclass in blending a bouncy bassline with a tight house beat, resulting in a vibey experience that's both energetic and emotionally resonant. B-side is represented by a track called 'Melow' by Politics Of Dancing which invites you to a place of auditory serenity. Djebali closes this compilation by delivering 'Matmata'. This track unfolds like a story, with intricate layers of sound that keep you engaged from start to finish. Get ready to embark on a musical adventure like no other, and join us in celebrating this historic moment as we release our first vinyl record.
Francesco Sancricca aka Sancra is a new coming very productive Italian artist. Based in Rome he’s recently releasing his music on independent labels or on his imprint Ipso Facto while playing for local and international venues like, The Magick Bar, Coropuna or Starlane in London. Very emotional and complex when both producing and djing for this release he showcases his ability to blend dark and appealing sounds being never boring but always mental and uplifting like for the A1, a masterpiece ready to smash every dance floor with that endless bassline closing perfectly on the straight 4/4 beat with techno electro influences. The A2 powerful and more techno it’s a 90s echo of warehouse parties together with the malefic melody of the B1 while “closing” the ep with a more breaky B2.
Eternal Return is a must-have for fans of techno, electro, new wave driving music and anyone looking for a unique and innovative take on techno. With its mental sound and high-quality production, this EP is sure to become a classic in the world of electronic music.
Mastered in UK at The Fish Tank Studios pressed and distributed by Vinylfuture.
Batu returns to A Long Strange Dream for a deep dive into otherworldly ambient soundscapes, after infusing his interest in beatless forms in recent releases.
Drawing inspiration from the ambiance of chill-out rooms and their ability to channel the intense emotions of rave, he presents an entrancing voyage into post-euphoria, where self-exploration lives at the border of lucid dreaming and reality.
By recontextualizing his signature studies of the frontiers between organic and synthetic sounds outside of dancefloors, the multi-faceted producer displays a blissfully radiant and emotive side throughout an ecstatic journey.
“Dual Realms of Sounds” emerges as the latest vinyl masterpiece from the enigmatic Soul Button, an audio diptych that distills the essence of his sonic signature. This meticulously curated double-vinyl collection showcases the dualistic nature of Soul Button's artistry, encapsulating the dynamic range of his most compelling works across two distinct auditory domains.
The first vinyl pays homage to the night - a pulsating journey through Soul Button's most successful, club-oriented anthems. Here, the beats intensify and the rhythms beckon you to the dance floor, with tracks like the fiery "Incendiary" and the enigmatic "Qabila" poised to ignite the crowd.
Vinyl 2 presents a shift in narrative to a more introspective realm, featuring the most melodious and soul-stirring hits from Soul Button.
The ethereal "Utopia" and the haunting "Wraith”, stand as cornerstones of this auditory expedition, channeling the essence of deep house with a dreamlike introspection, steering away from the dance floor and into the vast landscapes of the mind.
“Dual Realms of Sounds” is more than a mere collection of tracks; it is a portal to contrasting universes where rhythm and emotion converge. This release invites you to secure your passage and delve into the duality of rhythm and melody that defines Soul Button's unique sound.
T4T LUV NRG presents “Call Me G”, the new album by Brooklyn’s Russell E.L. Butler, their first full length LP since the release of 2018’s critically acclaimed “The Home I’d Build For Myself and All My Friends” on Left Hand Path. In the intervening years, Russell has experienced an accumulation of personal subjective experiences which are explored through captivating musical modalities and expressions on this sprawling, gorgeous, and deeply emotional album. Russell’s work on “Call Me G” can be described as a unique amalgam of early NY house music, dub techno and poetry. The album’s title track, as well as its instrumentals, are a kind of storytelling for histories that continue to exist without observation as well as for secrets and the power they hold in spite of their truth being obscured and sometimes lost.
Storytellers like Russell have the ability to collapse the past and future into discrete experiences of non-linear time through the emotional landscape of music and voice. Each song contains a palatable loneliness and hurt to which many in this modern world can relate, but each track also suggests the possibility of genuine connection and the formation of the self through communing and reintegrating with the natural world. These parallel concepts are the subject of “Accumulation”, a writing by Russell which accompanies the release of the album. The emotions, conflicts and resolutions that accompany Russell’s storytelling are felt acutely on tracks such as “I’m Dancing No One Is Watching” and “Stare Into The Light Beam”, among others.
On the title song, which closes the album, Russell sings “Can you call me? Will you call me? All that I want is for you to call me by my name...My name is G.” Context is part of interpretation and thus it is left to the listener to feel in the music and lyrics the concept that what may seem erased never truly dies, the traces still exist in the thing that takes its place. The T4T LUV NRG label is in part a continuing effort to facilitate the documentation of true stories that don’t get told—rather than representing a singular vibe or genre. Russell’s album is a stunning and profound entry in this evolving catalog of music and art. The beautiful cover of “Call Me G” is based on a hand drawn portrait of the artist by Diego Guzman.
The new 12” series on Ballyhoo Records is dedicated to what label owner ‘Thee J Johanz’ describes as ‘Triptech Journeys’. The series takes the listener on a journey traversing old school house to mystical acid and everything in-between.
On volume 2, titled ‘Trancedenting Machines’, side a treats us to two tracks from Master Johanz. First, we have his track ‘Jack the Tripper, which utilizes the famous Dutch analog synth the “Synton Syrinx” and gives the track its swampy bubbling filter sounds and a massive intense hypnotizing drone sound in the background. This coupled with the steady grooving beat will take you to the moon and back. Next up is his track ‘Daylight Tripper’ which brings us a few steps into the daylight with its deep acidic sound that will keep you moving.
Flip it over to side b and we have upcoming talent ‘David Agrella’ from London who surpasses himself with his brilliant acidic track ‘Machinery.’ Finally, and definitely one to watch, is the incredible Swiss acid don, ‘DJ Emotion’ with an extract from one of his endless magical jams. Incredible stuff all round, you need this in your life and on your turntable!
Closely following a busy 2023, GiGi FM announces her brand-new record label, offering “Kiwi Synthesis Diary Vol. 2” to mark the debut. Sea~rène takes aim at dreamlike and ethereal electronic music to reconnect the subconscious and the cosmos through immersive storytelling. As the identity quote of the label says itself “We are Sea~rène swimming in-between supernatural tides, forever following the emotional waves of the universe”.
Already quite accomplished in her milieu through an acclaimed release on Bambounou’s Bambelabel, where she explored the relationship between bodily technologies and music, as well as through her residency on NTS Radio where she explores inter-dimensional sounds and shares her own musical palette, GiGi also continues to perform at strings of performances in the past years in settings like Berghain, Rural Japan, Draaimolen, Fabric, De School, Primavera, The Bunker New York, and Sustain Release. The French/Italian artist takes her productions further with this first release of her imprint. A continuation of her first self-released project, “Kiwi Synthesis Diary 21k,” in 2021, GiGi FM celebrates the exchange between her, as the owner of the journal, and its reader through euphoric soundscapes and vibrant psychedelia. Taking a step back from lockdown introspections, blurred lines between dream and reality like ambient and drony atmospheres, GiGi gives us a bent club record full of colors and life.
GiGi FM guides us through dreams of sonic environments and the adventures to be had through them. Some are characterized by evolving fractals and shifting landscapes like in the healing mushroom journey of ‘Amadamushies’ and the mythical Japanese Heron ‘Tsuru’. Combining steady rhythm and immersive ambiances, the result intends to soothe into a state of openness through kindly familiar territories. Sifting through the tracks, we find ourselves traveling fast through cosmic ecosystems like in the spiritual and cosmic teaching that “Tevora'' represents, as well as ‘Househopping (Keroppi)’ and “Sly Xupete Di Barcelona,” conveying the urgency to feel and create, even within difficult circumstances, while “Spazio Teletrasporto'' takes us on a hypnotic whirlwind trip into the depths of the cosmos and our inner consciousness. Through these chapters of a journey, a connection between the mind and the beyond is implied, and its importance is highlighted.
Deeply influenced by astrology, philosophy, and the cosmos; for GiGi, music is both a tool for expression and introspection. As a multi-hyphenate artist, she continues on her quest to push artistic boundaries and hold space for unique audience experiences. Whatever medium she may adopt, the result is a rich embodiment of the interconnectedness of sound, color, movement, and metaphysics.
WOLFDRIFTA steps up to his own Wolves That Drift label with another stylish fusion of sounds that stand him out in a class of one. The London based artist has a fresh sound and is really making waves with his own platform which evokes real emotion and brings innovative sounds to the underground. The title cut pairs dubby bass with snappy electro-style percussion and sci-fi melodies. It's a distinctly futuristic world of cinematic designs and immersive atmospheres. Remixer Theo Nasa has credits on the likes of Rekids, ASPX and We Are The Brave and flips it into a double time and bass heavy stepper with compelling rhythms and tribal percussion. Tekdroid then layers up crispy drum programming with swirling pads for a twisted and acid laced techno workout. Glitch Overdrive has a future sense of soul over hunched drums and rasping bass.
Phuture Shock is a game-changing EP from this crucial producer.
Depending on your personal circumstances, the Covid pandemic was either a blissed-out paid holiday or a stressful and seemingly never-ending time of loss and hardship. Both ends of the spectrum are gorgeously captured here by London-based Joy Ellis, who wrote her third album 'Peaceful Place' during those strange weeks.
Though a renowned singer, she decided to strip things back to just piano for this record, with long-time collaborators Adam Osmianski on drums and Henrik Jensen on double bass fleshing out the sound.
It is a poignant listen from front to back, with all the many different emotions of that time conveyed perfectly, from grief to uncertainty, hope to despair, in one immersive record. The sheer beauty of these songs and the meaning of the melodies stay with you long after they have finished playing, making this a real triumph out of adversity and one that is sure to stand the test of time.
On March 26, 2015, a surprising announcement sent shockwaves through the Belgian music scene. Noe?mie Wolfs declared her departure from Hooverphonic, the band she had fronted as the lead singer for over five years. She described it as the end of an incredible chapter in her life and expressed her desire to forge her own musical path, which she did by releasing her critically acclaimed debut album "Hunt You" a year later.
In February 2020, the long-anticipated second solo album by Noe?mie arrived, titled "Lonely Boy's Paradise," brimming with melancholic hues. Taking her time to craft and record this album, Noe?mie delivered a collection of songs that resonated even more deeply with her. At the production helm was Yello Staelens (also known as Yong Yello). With "Lonely Boy's Paradise," her confidence grew, allowing her to embrace risk and unconventional ideas. However, the international lockdown soon threw a spanner in the works, as the society shut down a day after her celebrated sold-out release show at the Ancienne Belgique. Rather than sit by, she therefore retreated to her home studio to work on new music.
Making music from the heart has always been in the DNA of Belgian singer Noémie Wolfs and yet this time it is a tad different as she's gearing up to release her third album, "Wild At Heart," in November. This time around, she joined forces again with her partner in crime, Simon Casier (of Balthazar and Zimmerman), to write and produce the album in their home studio. Despite being in the business for years, the upcoming project also immediately presented a challenge for her because this time she was involved both as a writer, but more importantly as a producer, giving the album an even more personal touch. Everything was done from an emotion or a vision, you notice and hear the love for enchanting arrangements immediately.
The ten tracks on "Wild At Heart" promise a distinct sound, enriched with meticulous attention to detail. The melodies are interwoven with dreamy, melancholic strings and an array of synths, revealing a new facet of Noémie's musical evolution. The new sound of Noémie evolved from a hip-hop-oriented use of samples on her second album "Lonely Boys Paradise" to a more electronic approach, where danceable beats with analog synths join forces with big orchestrated strings to capture the different facets of a love story.
"Strings are actually very hopeful or often form a warm blanket for many people, but can also be very frightening, oppressive, dark, and sad. It might even be my favourite instrument, which is why I definitely wanted to use them on this album. Sometimes you can even hear 42 violins at the same time, with which we wanted to capture the grandeur of Hollywood," she says about including strings.
The upcoming album is not a sonic continuation of her previous albums, but a deliberate exploration of what has always inspired her. "Wild At Heart" tells the story of two lovers who cannot live with each other, but also cannot live without each other. The dramaturgy of the album also reflects itself musically, which is immediately evident with the first single "Lonely Heart". In almost eight minutes, you feel the matchless passion in her music and her voice remains the narrative thread that makes you forget time and space around you for a moment. Noémie Wolfs' new music is therefore the perfect way to take a break from the daily grind and digs deep into all forms of romance.
"Wild At Heart" is Noémie Wolfs' reintroduction and her most personal project so far. For dreamers, lovers, and travelers.
Step into a cosmic journey with "Cocaine Kisses," an ethereal album that effortlessly blends spacey synthesizers, moody melodies, and loungey beats. This captivating musical expedition reflects the tumultuous emotions of love and trust issues, resonating with listeners on a profound level. Crafted during a period of personal transformation and isolation brought about by losing management and enduring the trials of quarantine for COVID-19, each track becomes a portal to both introspection and connection. From hauntingly beautiful melodies that mirror the depths of heartache to uplifting rhythms that evoke moments of hope, this album encapsulates the paradoxical nature of human relationships. As the celestial harmonies intertwine, listeners are reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of forging meaningful bonds amidst adversity. Through "Cocaine Kisses," prepare to embark on an otherworldly sonic odyssey that transcends the boundaries of time, welcoming you to a universe where love, loss, and self-discovery collide in a symphony of emotions.
SIT returns to Amphia with a new release. “Urban Chronicles” comprises 4 tracks, each with its own distinctive sound reminiscent of early techno and house electronic music.
The A side launches in full swing with “Synth City”, a colorful, groovy tune, where vocal elements and airy synth lines blend together seamlessly. “Dreamworx” continues in much the same fashion, adding an introspective counterpoint.
“Parallel Pulses” and “Fabricated Odyssey” make up the B side, quirky and syncopated, with heavy bass lines and lively percussions.
More than any other release from the catalogue, Amphia 025 is an exploration of instinct and emotion.
“Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” a sage modernist poet previously whispered. And here we go, far out and yet so near, the third edition of “Risks Issues Opportunities” brings frontier reverberations scratching at the edges of dance, pop, downbeat, and other trance- portive sectors. Eight fast/slow propelling tracks. Adventurous, full of grandeur, gratifying the dance floor while equally winning the relaxation zones. Pure emotions crafted by newcomers. There is Milan’s Tagliabue, trancing slow and insightful. Or Cologne’s Grischerr, eloquently Tolouse-Low-Traxing. Some go down the slow burning road, where rhythms hang low, and suspense is in full show. Like London’s Frank Rodas, Garnu Depot from Iran, or Xei Ju from the islands of Micronesia, striking all ears with ghostly transcendental percussive science. An autumnally global voyage, which likewise offers industrialized districts by Italian producer Federico Cassetta, Metropolis minimal wave pop by Japanese musician Saeko Killy, or odd swamp funk by Chilean/German duo 7697 Miles. They all show, how far you can go, without losing your distinct flow.
Dance Floor Rituals kick things off strong with the first release on the label by a producer that will be no stranger to people in the know.
DJ and producer, Jorge Gamarra, has been crafting his skills for the best part of a decade. You can quickly notice his dedication to interesting sounds and strong baselines whilst listening to DFR’s first release. 4 tracks tailored for dark dance floors and long after hours. Emotional tracks with spiritual feeling and built intuition. The perfect music and artist to kick things off for this new label.
This is not one to be missed. Be quick!
On his new single "Pacifico Waves", Joel Sarakula takes the scenic route down a pacific coastline, searching for peace, enlightenment and the perfect sunset.
Travelling and searching is nothing new to Sarakula: it's almost his default way of being. Born and raised in Sydney, Australia before swapping oceans to live in the UK and more recently onwards to Gran Canaria: "I've been busy making my islands smaller" he jokes. But the music on "Pacifico Waves" sounds like none of these places: with its easy drum shuffle, soulful guitar hooks and smooth vocal harmonies it distinctly evokes Southern California. It's such a potent portrait of the West Coast that if not for the contemporary lyrics and some modern production techniques, it could be a long lost hit from an early 80s LA studio band.
"Pacifico Waves" is ultimately about memory, fantasy and the powerful emotion of reminiscing when Sarakula sings 'The sound of the ocean gets me so high, helps me remember what I left behind'.
- A1: When People Are Occupied Resistance Is Justified
- A2: It's Over, If We Run Out Of
- A3: Emotionally Clear
- B1: Hope Is The Last Thing To Die
- B2: You Will Know Me By The Smell Of Onions
- B3: Necessary Genius
- B4: Yeah X 3
- C1: I Laugh Myself To Sleep
- C2: Too Muchroom
- C3: Agitprop 13
- C4: Stop Apologising
- D1: Tyranny Of The Talentless
- D2: Love In The Upside Down
- D3: Blind On A Galloping Horse
Established in 2016, Little Giant Records is the Brooklyn-born label founded by Anna Cavazos that specializes in the kind of deep house sounds that belong in the dark and sweaty basements of underground clubs. Anna is a DJ, producer, and vocalist who has played out across the globe for over 15 years mixing and blending the deep house sounds of Chicago, New York, and Berlin. . Her discography includes original compositions, remixes, and collaborations with the likes of Satoshi Tomiie and Eli Escobar.
The EP kicks off with the original of ‘Love Interlude’ - melancholic and piano-heavy with an ultra-deep baseline embellished with warm pads and soulful drums. Anna’s soulful vocal floats above the melody creating an emotional and moving interlude. Next up Matthias Vogt delivers a deep-house masterpiece adding extra keys, drum accents, and a well-placed baseline that is weaved neatly into the vocal hook while Vogt delivers the warm, jazz-flecked vibrations he is well known for.
Up next Rick Wade weighs in with some ever so classy house laced with flashes from the Motor City of Detroit. Warm electro piano, glowing synths, and vocal parts contrast with the deep sub baseline. Closing out this EP Rissa Garcia draws heavily on her New York house inspirations. Organ riffs and a funk-inspired bass line lead the charge dropping in and out between vocal harmonies and subtle synth work. Percussive accents bring it all home making this closing cut one dancefloor destroying, peak-time bomb.
In striking daubs of bled-out colour and finely sculpted layers of instrumentation, Lord of the Magi arrives on Tartelet Archives with an album of ambient reflections.
Copenhagen-based Theo Nicola Anker has different sides to his musical output. But on Soul Exchange, he shakes off stylistic concerns to focus on a purer emotional expression. It’s an instinctive paean to the pastoral life he grew up with, sent with love from his city-centre apartment. His chosen tools – guitars, pedals, synths – are the medium of the message. “I appreciate music with personality, character, and charisma,” Anker says, “so I always strive to create tracks that tell a story and evoke a specific atmosphere. No single idea for a track is solely melodic, rhythmic, compositional, or focused on mix techniques. It's always about the bigger picture, the overall vibe.”
On Soul Exchange, the overarching mood is an inviting, becalming one, but there’s plenty of space for melancholy and even a little friction. That’s apparent in the natural synergy of the organic and electronic elements as much as the emotional content, rounding out as a wholesome, holistic listening experience.
Drumcode favourite Victor Ruiz joins forces with rising Irish artist Modeā for an inspiring meeting of styles. Modeā’s ‘Shine’ may have brought many a dancefloor to its knees last summer, but it wasn’t just ravers who were weeping glorious techno tears.
“Shine is one of the best electronic music records ever made,” Victor Ruiz states in emphatic fashion. The Brazilian producer, who has been industrious in recent months with the successful launch of his own label Volta, soon tapped the Donegal artist for a collaboration and the seeds for ‘Bloom’ had been sewn.
‘Contrast’ saw an inversion of their workflow. The final result sees the duo craft two shots of emotional techno with enough bottom-end might to power a range of peak-time dancefloor moments.
Skatebård is one of the very best Classic Techno producers from Norway since the early 2000's - the distinction from others simply lies within his sense of melody, rhythm and live arrangements. The 2002 release "Skateboarding Was A Crime" on Tellektro had a clear thread of Detroit Techno and Electro, a craft and influence that also heavy club hitters "Conga", "Ta-Ta Arr" and "Emotional Bits" on Sex Tags Mania strongly carried. It's unarguably always a "classic touch" in his dance music, but still it always sounds like a Skatebård production - there is simply no blueprinting in true inspiration.
"Spektral LP" has been compiled and edited by DJ Sotofett with material from Skatebård's 2001-2005 recording archive. In short it's recordings nobody else cold get a hold of – fine tuned and restored into a synergetic and consolidated world of riding, mechanical and electronic funk - released on Skatebård's own Digitalo Enterprises.
Tracks "Seventh" and "Vaskemaskin" are both cymbal driven Techno cuts by the former metal drummer, one with chorded synth stabs growing in harmony, the other leaning on a dark sci-fi pad and a flipped vocal loop. There's a bit more of Skatebård's vocals on the beautifully robotic "Ei Anna Framtid", an alternate take of "Future" which Finlands Keys Of Life released in 2003. DJ Sotofett's mix of "Den Anarkistiske Anode" is nothing but a distorted head-schredding basement Techno blaster, while "Strengje", "Bassi" and "Spektral Elektro" punctuates the catchy Electro & Italo grooves Skatebård crafts so much better than most current producers.
I Talk To Water, the fifth album for Kompakt by Danish producer Kölsch, is the artist’s most personal statement yet. While all the trademarks that make his music so popular and powerful are still present – lush, melodic techno; swooping, trance-like figures; sensuous, shivery texturology – I Talk To Water is also a deep and intimate rapprochement with family and history, a beautiful, finely detailed document of loss and memory, and a tracing of the long, unbroken thread of grief that runs through our lives once we’ve lost those we loved.
The emotional core of I Talk To Water, then, is a cache of recordings by Kölsch’s father, Patrick Reilly, who passed away in 2003 from brain cancer. With time rendered elastic by the pandemic and its associated lockdowns, its sudden, alienating shifts in everyday living, Kölsch found himself reflecting on his father’s passing and ongoing spiritual presence, thinking about how best to memorialise such a significant figure in his own life. Those recordings opened a gateway, of sorts, for Kölsch to move through – a way to bring past and present together and entwine them in a sensitive, poetic manner.
Kölsch’s father was a musician – “touring in the sixties and seventies, in the Middle East especially, he was doing the whole hippy trail, playing guitar, and wrote some songs over the years,” he recalls. “But all in all, he decided to focus on family rather than pursue a musical career.” Reilly kept playing and writing music over the years, though Kölsch hadn’t listened to the material for some time: “I’d never had the guts to listen to it, because I just felt too fragile listening to his voice. It’s such a tough thing to go through.”
During the pandemic, though, Kölsch listened through the fragmented body of work that his father had produced over the years. “I decided I’m gonna finally release my dad’s music twenty years after his passing,” he reflects. “This whole album is about the process of loss, and for me it’s been one of my main driving forces in my musical life, the whole emotional aspect of whatever I’ve done has been based in that feeling that he’s not there anymore.”
Recordings of Reilly appear on three songs across I Talk To Water. His guitars drift pensively across “Grape”, offering a lush thread of melody that Kölsch wraps with clicking, driftwood rhythms and droning, melancholy bass. “Tell Me” is a lovely three-minute art song, a sadly beautiful reflection, minimally adorned with gentle keys and a muted pulse. And on the closing “It Ends Where It Began”, Kölsch lets his father’s acoustic guitar take centre stage for a lament that’s unexpectedly folksy, a guitar soli dream, which Reilly originally recorded in 1996. “He actually recorded it for my first album that never came out,” Kölsch reveals, “and I had it sitting around forever. That is purely him.”
These three imagined collaborations between father and son are poised and delicate. But their relationship also marks the gorgeous music Kölsch has made across the rest of I Talk To Water, from the itchy yet lush “Pet Sound” (titled in tribute to one of Reilly’s favourite albums), the flickering synths and yearning vocal samples that slide through “Khenpo”, the ecstatic shuddering that marks “Only Get Better”, or “Implant”’s slow-motion pans and subtle reveals.
There’s also the title song, where Kölsch is joined by guest Perry Farrell (Jane’s Addiction, Porno For Pyros), singing a mantra for internal reflection: “I talk to water / Searching for myself / Looking for answers / Oceans of you.” Farrell’s appearance brings another timbre, another spirit to the album, aligning neatly with his recent interest in electronic music. “He was completely taken by this idea of talking to water,” Kölsch says, thinking about the ways we collectively lean towards the natural world as a comfort and a listener, a guide through mourning, a way to map out the terrain of the heart. This mapping is something that Kölsch has proven remarkably adept at through the years; dance music for both body and mind, but also both for the here-and-now, and for the hereafter.
“I Talk To Water”, das fünfte Album des dänischen Produzenten Kölsch für Kompakt, ist zweifellos das persönlichste Statement des Künstlers bislang. Während alle Markenzeichen, die seine Musik so beliebt und kraftvoll machen, immer noch präsent sind – üppige, melodische Techno-Tracks; schwebende, tranceartige Elemente; sinnliche, fiebrige Texturen – ist “I Talk To Water” auch eine tiefe und intime Annäherung an Familie und Geschichte. Es ist ein wunderschönes, fein ausgearbeitetes Dokument des Verlusts und der Erinnerung, und es verfolgt den langen, ungebrochenen Faden der Trauer, der durch unser Leben läuft, sobald wir diejenigen verloren haben, die wir liebten.
Der emotionale Kern von “I Talk To Water” besteht aus Aufnahmen von Kölschs Vater, Patrick Reilly, der 2003 an Hirnkrebs verstarb. Durch die Pandemie und ihre damit verbundenen Lockdowns, die plötzlichen, entfremdenden Veränderungen im Alltag, fand Kölsch sich in Gedanken an den Tod seines Vaters und seine fortwährende spirituelle Präsenz wieder. Er überlegte, wie er eine so bedeutende Figur in seinem eigenen Leben am besten verewigen könnte. Diese Aufnahmen öffneten ihm sozusagen ein Portal, um Vergangenheit und Gegenwart miteinander zu verbinden und sie auf sensible und poetische Weise zu verweben.
Kölschs Vater war Musiker – “er tourte in den sechziger und siebziger Jahren, vor allem im Nahen Osten, auf dem Hippie Trail, spielte Gitarre und schrieb im Laufe der Jahre einige Songs”, erinnert sich Kölsch. “Aber alles in allem entschied er sich, sich auf die Familie zu konzentrieren, anstatt eine musikalische Karriere zu verfolgen.” Reilly spielte und schrieb jedoch im Laufe der Jahre weiterhin Musik, obwohl Kölsch das Material lange Zeit nicht angehört hatte: “Ich hatte nie den Mut, es anzuhören, weil ich mich einfach zu zerbrechlich fühlte, seine Stimme anzuhören. Es ist so schwer, das durchzustehen.”
Während der Pandemie hörte sich Kölsch jedoch durch das fragmentierte Werk, das sein Vater im Laufe der Jahre produziert hatte. “Ich beschloss, die Musik meines Vaters zwanzig Jahre nach seinem Tod endlich zu veröffentlichen”, reflektiert er. “Dieses ganze Album handelt von dem Verlustprozess, welcher für mich generell eine der Hauptantriebskräfte in meinem musikalischen Leben ist. Der ganze emotionale Aspekt von dem, was ich getan habe, basierte auf dem Gefühl, dass er nicht mehr da ist.”
Auf “I Talk To Water” sind Aufnahmen von Reilly in drei Songs zu hören. Seine Gitarren ziehen nachdenklich durch “Grape”, bieten einen üppigen Melodiefaden, den Kölsch mit klickenden, treibenden Rhythmen und dröhnendem, melancholischem Bass umwickelt. “Tell Me” ist ein schönes dreiminütiges Kunstlied, eine traurig-schöne Reflexion, minimal geschmückt mit sanften Tasten und einem gedämpften Puls. Und auf dem Abschlusstrack “It Ends Where It Began” lässt Kölsch die akustische Gitarre seines Vaters im Mittelpunkt stehen, ein überraschend folkiger Klagegesang, den Reilly ursprünglich 1996 aufgenommen hatte. “Er hat es tatsächlich für mein erstes Album aufgenommen, das nie veröffentlicht wurde”, enthüllt Kölsch, “und ich hatte es ewig liegen.”
Diese drei erdachten Kollaborationen zwischen Vater und Sohn sind ausgewogen und zart. Aber ihre Beziehung prägt auch die wunderschöne Musik, die Kölsch im Rest von “I Talk To Water” geschaffen hat, angefangen bei dem nervösen, aber üppigen “Pet Sound” (benannt als Hommage an eines von Reillys Lieblingsalben), den flimmernden Synthesizern und sehnsüchtigen Vocal-Samples in “Khenpo”, den ekstatischen Erschütterungen in “Only Get Better” oder den langsamen Schwenks und subtilen Enthüllungen in “Implant”.
Es gibt auch den Titelsong, in dem Kölsch von Gast Perry Farrell (Jane’s Addiction, Porno For Pyros) begleitet wird, der ein Mantra für die innere Reflexion singt: “I talk to water / Searching for myself / Looking for answers / Oceans of you.” Farrells Auftritt bringt eine weitere Klangfarbe, einen weiteren Geist in das Album, der gut zu seinem jüngsten Interesse an elektronischer Musik passt. “Er war völlig fasziniert von der Idee, mit Wasser zu sprechen”, sagt Kölsch und denkt darüber nach, wie wir kollektiv zur Natur als Trost, Zuhörer, Führer durch die Trauer neigen, um die Gelände des Herzens zu kartieren. Diese Kartierung ist etwas, in dem Kölsch im Laufe der Jahre erstaunlich geschickt war; Tanzmusik für Körper und Geist, sowohl für das Hier und Jetzt, als auch für das Leben danach.
Dive into the electrifying soundscapes of Wooka's latest EP, "Somethin You Dress Up," as each track becomes a meticulously crafted journey through the realms of electronic house. With his typical beats and rhythms, Wooka takes us on a kaleidoscopic ride through four distinct compositions that embody the very essence of his artistry. From the sun-soaked vibes of "I Hope You Breathe" to the pulsating precision of "People Fucked Up," the EP dances through a spectrum of emotions. "London Somethin" pays homage to '90s UK bass with intricate percussive artistry, while "No dress code", made with Acheel, delves deep into sub-bass syncopation. Hailing from France, Wooka seamlessly blends house, break, and electro, channeling the energy of hip-hop and UK garage. His live performances showcase the dedication to his craft, crafting sonic symphonies that transport audiences to the heart of his musical universe.
Kamai Music’s 26th release comes from the Electronic producer duo and live act Kon Faber.
A1: “Ambiguity” is a bouncy, groove- and percussion-heavy collaboration between established producer Iorie,
including a vocal duet.
A2: “Cheer” is an emotional, atmospheric track with a mesmerizing interplay of synth lines and jazzy melodic
licks from professional jazz saxophone player Marius Dick.
A3: “Weberwiese” is a large space with choirs and wide synth pads. The track opens up through a virtuous,
acoustic lead guitar embedded into a hypnotic and bouncy groove.
B1: South African producer Fka Mash gives a deep Afro House twist including a rich bass lead synth.
B2: Kamai’s own Jacob Groening shows a simplistic interpretation of “Cheer” and adds a new depth through a
non-metrically played lead synth.
B3: “Weberwiese” is remixed by Joep Mencke, who adds trance-like melodies and creates a melodic house
spin for the big stage.
Titled “Vernacular", the debut album by Blake Reyes is set to release on Axis Records on Friday, October 27, 2023, in vinyl and digital formats. The album is personally overseen by Jeff Mills, and is part of the "Axis Jazz" collection.
This confirms the eclecticism and versatility of both Axis and Blake Reyes, through harmony and rhythm, cultural influences, and the right touch of fusion: characteristics that have always defined jazz.
The album was recorded in three different cities (Bologna, Milan, and Rome), with Jeff Mills present during all recording and mixing sessions. Particularly in Milan, work was done at the Officine Meccaniche studios, where Duke Ellington, Quincy Jones, and many others have recorded.
?Vernacular" is an album that draws from jazz, Detroit techno and funk. It evokes operatic work due to its aspiration to create strong emotional intensity. The album features a blend of acoustic instruments such as acoustic bass, acoustic and electronic guitars, and the Steinway & Sons Grand Piano - the same Duke Ellington played in 1963 when he recorded ?The Symphonic Ellington" album - alongside electronic instruments including drum machines and Roland synths.
?I titled the album ?Vernacular' because I focused solely on production and sound quality, drawing inspiration from vernacular art, as a self-taught and artisanal approach in the noblest sense of the term", Blake Reyes explains. ?The musical references can primarily be found in Jeff Mills and his Millsart project, and more broadly in the works of composers like Bruno Nicolai, Piero Umiliani, Piero Piccioni, Brian Bennett, John Cameron, and even Raymond Scott. For the lyrics of the track ?At Night,' the visual reference that inspired the lyrics can be traced back to certain paintings by Henri Rousseau, particularly ?The Dream,' ?The Snake Charmer,' and ?Sleeping Gypsy.' All of this was done in post-production, working alongside Jeff Mills: a wonderful experience, a continuous flow and exchange of ideas."
Producer, DJ, and sound designer Blake Reyes (born Luca Vertulli) divides his time between Milan and Ibiza. His productions consistently focus on the sounds and emotions derived from tapes, samplers, drum machines, and analog synthesizers. His mixes are broadcasted on stations such as Ibiza Global Radio, Ibiza Sonica, Radio Raheem, and Olà Radio. His DJ sets are distinguished by their elegance and quality, always bringing the dancefloor to the right temperature. He boasts releases on Trax Records and Rebirth Records, and in 2019, he founded Triton Records, his own record label.
Musicians: Dario Lutrino: piano, Stefano Brandoni: guitar, Niccolò "Bolla" Bonavita: bass, Anna Bassy: singer, Blake Reyes: drum machines and synthesizers.
Music composed, produced and directed by Blake Reyes. Lyrics written by Blake Reyes. Studio Engineer: Taketo Gohara, Mastering Engineer: Giovanni Versari, Producer: Jeff Mills.
Studios: Officine Meccaniche, Milan / Fonoprint, Bologna / Forum Studios, Rome
Dead Fader is the alter ego of John Cohen - former Brighton resident, now based in Berlin - who has worked relentlessly since 2007 to realise his vision of electronic music. His tracks are characterised by pioneering sound explorations, which on one hand oscillate between sonic extremities and on the other hand carefully craft cinemascope sound worlds. The album became a very personal exploration for Cohen, as the themes are inquiring emotional states, and the writing process was predominantly influenced by falling in love whilst making the album. Furthermore, the film Interstellar visually influenced the album, mapped as an image for Cohen's tracks to exist in. I have watched his talent, his confidence in his ability and his output just grow and grow beyond what most humans are capable of imagining, never mind making. I think that comes from a place of wonder and exploration, a place where emotion, energy and experience are important, the long and narrow, the deaf arena, the blood forest and the glass cathedrals. Dead Fader rips you backwards through the portal as existence explodes around you, but you don't perish in the fire. It's just a ride.' - Barry Pendergast, former partner in Dead Fader T
Memento Records’ boss Idriss D goes back to his more experimental side on this release, pushing the boundaries like he did on his first Lunatic EP, coming up once again with another Jungle-infused mesmerizing piece of Electronica that mixes breakbeat influences with melodic soulful vibes.
A very welcome follow up, aptly titled “Lunatic 2”, this tune is fiercely uptempo and energetic: the psychedelic melody swirls inside, outside and around your mind, while the fluid bass line counterparts the schizophrenic rhythm. On top of this, powerful emotional vocals take you into another dimension.
The prestigious remix comes courtesy of Gilb’R, founder of Versatile Records and one half of Chateau Flight: a slower downtempo piece with an infectious, almost improvisational synth melody, with vocals taking center stage here, full of atmospheric sounds all over that land into a deep dreamy break.
Ten songs that ultimately changed the world. Ten songs pulled from precedent-establishing albums recorded between 1963 and 1966. More than five-million copies sold. In every way, Bob Dylan's Greatest Hits is a fundamental collection for every music lover, and the perfect choice for those seeking an introduction into the legend's vast career. For this is a collection so prized, even the cover photo won a Grammy.
Greatest-hits volumes are often hit-and-miss propositions not because of what they contain, but because of what's missing. Filtering the top selections from the six formative, life-altering albums Dylan made between 1963 and 1966 is an arbitrary process but one performed impeccably on this set. Home to his biggest chart successes as well as his most influential songs, Bob Dylan's Greatest Hits is a veritable template for any aspiring singer-songwriter, an American history lesson, and a seminal release for anyone new to his work – as well as for audiences that find some of his deeper cuts an acquired taste. Every signature facet of Dylan is represented, and done so authoritatively. Serious, protest folk anthems ("Blowin' in the Wind," "The Times Are A-Changin'") sit alongside defiant rock statements ("Positively Fourth Street"), landscape-changing epics ("Like a Rolling Stone"), beautiful blues-inspired odes ("I Want You"), and surrealist dreamscapes ("Subterranean Homesick Blues"). Infused with literary poetry, impassioned emotion, and career-making performances, this material doubles as a definitive account of American culture and society, and functions as a soundtrack to the era's social movements.
Gathered in one place, it's no wonder the songs here gave Dylan what remains the biggest-selling album of his career.
It's all aboard for Stasis' second 12" on De:tuned. Steve Pickton is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the early UK techno scene. Here he returns with a new 3 track EP of carefully selected and previously unreleased DAT tape tracks from the heyday of 90s electronic music. On offer a uniquely lush and sentimental style that resonates with the 313 Motor City sound. Sweet memories are the greatest kind of nostalgia!
Kevin Foakes (Openmind, DJ Food, Ninja Tune) created all the graphic work. Mastered by Matt Colton at Metropolis and pressed on 180 gr vinyl. A separate digital release will also be available at the usual digital shops. Stay tuned!
As we get ready to say goodbye to the Telomere Plastic series, we are excited to present Telomere 020.1, aka the first part out of 5.
Each release will have four different artists, making it a compilation of twenty different artists who will deliver unique, juicy and eclectic frequencies that will keep your telomeres bopping for the rest of time!
This first VA, features producers, ESB, Synaptic Voyager, Vinaya and Vonsuck.
A1, Fancy Organ from Vinaya, is a sexy deep and house cut that is guaranteed to bring smiles all around the dance floor. Arpeggios and groovy bass lines galore. Prepare your piano hands because you will find yourself playing that sweet air organ on this one!
A2, Self Destruct Sequence from Synaptic Voyager (aka Telomere 014’s Illuminators), is a very emotional cut. Originally released digitally on Frame Of Mind, we were overjoyed to be given the green light to put this beauty on wax. Deep pads, tommy drums, hints of IDM and techno, and soul striking arpeggios pave the way for a special sonic journey. Close your eyes and melt away with this one!
B1, Keio Acid from ESB. We are always delighted to share more ESB with you. Elan’s love for analog and tape give off a raw and authentic energy that is hard to come by. This deep, jazzy and loopy cut will keep you on your toes from start to finish. We can only dream of being on the dance floor as this one plays out!
B2, Unemati from Vonsuck, is a deep and dubby cut that beautifully blends the three genres dub techno, house and techno. Dark rooms and dark skies are recommend for this one here, even though we could see these frequencies accompanied by a pink and red sunrise bringing waves of energy and nostalgia to your soul. Its a real treat to have Vonsuck aka Galaktlan on the Telomere series!
Very limited black copies as always with a few colored copies available via the Wex bandcamp, be quick!
Cocoon Recordings' next 12” vinyl comes from a well-known face. No introduction needed as nobody less than Gregor Tresher once again delivers a superb and surprising pair of tracks.
“Black Halo” is down-the-line and perhaps one of the catchiest tracks by Gregor Tresher.
The wobbling driving bassline builds up a rising tension that increases through the vast, detuned, and powerful string parts appearing to extend out to light years, reaching far beyond. Zaps drive the rhythm forward while rushing cymbals push the groove and weld everything together to absolute unity. For Gregor, techno and club culture have certain transcendental qualities, “Black Halo” is concerned with these sentiments and tells an ambivalent story. The onset of bliss oscillates between melancholy and hope, making it an exuberant roller coaster of emotions. A classic Gregor Tresher track, which perfectly represents Gregor’s signature sound!
“Phantom Dancer” literally pulls you onto the dance floor. Discharging beats, which hit you heavily but pleasant. The atmosphere violently evolves with a twisted noise-like signal sound and gets even more brute through the low-pitched filter vocals. An exceptionally deep techno production by Gregor Tresher, which will definitely come to full fruition in the clubs at peak time.
Serge Devant returns to Crosstown Rebels with his mesmerising new single ‘A Little Bit Of Love’, complete with a remix from Art Department & MDL Child. Thanks to his fresh house sound, New York resident Serge Devant has turned the heads of tastemakers like Jamie Jones and Damian Lazarus for several years. A regular on Crosstown Rebels dating back to his label debut in 2015, dropping a string of EPs on the label since, he arrives in fine form once again as he unveils his latest single.
His brilliant ‘A Little Bit Of Love’ is an inventive rhythm that soon sweeps you up with its wavy beats and slick hits. Gorgeous chords are draped over it next to steamy vocals to ensure a truly emotive dance floor trip, while the dub version strips out the lead vocal to lay the focus on the remaining musical elements. The remix comes from Jonny White, aka pioneering underground artist and No. 19 Music boss Art Department, and fellow Canadian talent MDL Child. They flip the production into seven minutes of emotionally intense house music with muted acid lines undulating throughout the mix, while immense percussive energy and lush cosmic keys make for a fulsome dancefloor rush.
- A1: Top Boy Theme
- A2: But Not This Way
- A3: Damp Bones
- A4: Cutting Room I
- A5: Floating On Sleep's Shore
- B1: Beauty And Danger
- B2: Beneath The Sea
- B3: Afraid Of Things
- B4: Waiting In Darkness
- B5: The Fountain King
- B6: Washed Away In Morocco
- C1: Overground
- C2: Watching The Watcher
- C3: Sweet Dark Section
- C4: Sky Blue Alert
- D1: Delirious Circle
- D2: Cutting Room Ii
- D3: Dangerous Landscape
- D4: The Good Fight
Top Boy is the British television crime drama series, created and written by Ronan Bennett. The story follows two seasoned drug dealers return to the gritty streets of London, but their pursuit of money and power is threatened by a young and ruthless hustler. It stars Ashley Walters, Kane Robinson, and the
2020 BAFTA Rising Star Award-winning Michael Ward. The first two seasons aired between 2011 and 2013, but following interest from rapper Drake, Netflix announced in 2017 that it would revive the series. Co-produced by the Hotline Bling-rapper, the third and fourth season of Top Boy launched in 2019 and 2022.
In the captivating Netflix series Top Boy, Brian Eno’s transcendent music serves as a vital companion, molding the narrative’s essence with its ethereal power. With a masterful touch, Eno’s atmospheric compositions effortlessly transport us into the gritty world of crime, friendship, and survival in East London. From delicate ambience to pulsating beats, his sonic tapestry envelops every scene, elevating the storytelling and evoking a range of emotions. Eno’s singular ability to capture the struggle, hope, and inner strength of the characters accentuates the raw authenticity of Top Boy, leaving an indelible mark on its viewers. His haunting melodies and intricately crafted soundscapes symbolize the unyielding resilience amidst chaos, making Brian Eno’s music an integral and unforgettable component of this groundbreaking series.
POH (Point of Hue): It’s all about colors. Closet Yi sees the world in vibrant hues, as a sonic exploration of her kaleidoscopic vision. Seeing herself as more of an observer than a doer, she testifies her unique perspectives of the world in each track with all different hues and emotions.
Instinctively catchy and affecting, the four track dance EP is full of intricate textures, unexpected harmonies, and subtle sonic flourishes that reveal themselves with each listen. Written and mixed in her hometown, Seoul, the infectious EP is a collective of warm, floating yellow purple molecules in the air with introspective shades of cobalt and sage.
As much as she has a wide spectrum of taste, Closet Yi cements her core to its place where the most exciting and new coming artists are now.
From Chile comes "Skydream EP," an ode to House music in its purest and most exhilarating form! Talented Chilean artists Camilo Gil & Rodrigo Valdivia have joined forces to create a vinyl EP that will elevate your musical experience to new heights. "Skydream" is a sonic journey that will take you through the deepest corners of imagination. Each track is an invitation to explore ever-changing soundscapes and surrender to the hypnotic rhythm that only these two electronic music maestros can provide. But that's not all; "Skydream EP" also features two astonishing remixes that add an additional dimension to the experience. JEF K & ST.JHONS bring their insight to one of the tracks, transforming the music into an even more immersive experience. Meanwhile, PETER F. SPIESS adds his magical touch to another of the songs, taking the music to uncharted territories. This EP is a celebration of electronic music in its most diverse and thrilling form. Camilo Gil & Rodrigo Valdivia have crafted a work that transcends borders and connects listeners from around the world through their passion for music. Get ready to take off into a "Skydream" filled with rhythm, melody, and emotion. Chilean electronic music is poised to capture your ears and your heart. Stay tuned for the release date and make sure not to miss this one-of-a-kind sonic journey.
Mastered by Tobias
Italian legend Walter Del Vecchio aka Quiroga pays tribute to the acid house era on Hell Yeah with a new package that comes with two originals, an ambient mix and a remix from cult hero DMX Krew.
Quiroga released his last sublime album Passages on this label and it came as the latest entry into a discography filled with beauty and detail. He is a talented musician from Naples who has his own left-of-centre take on the Mediterranean sounds of the city, as he shows once again here with a house-leaning outing.
Quiroga has teamed up with cult musician Dario Bassolino and called upon Whodamanny's mixing skills for these new tracks. First is 'Once Again', a punchy and chunky house cut with skewed bass spraying about the mix. Its rough analogue edges are lit up by searing acid lines that never quit and will turn any party into a cauldron of intensity. The Ambient Version is a full-flavour downtempo workout that keeps the wild acid lines, adds in some FX, old-school piano chords and a yelping female vocal next to a blissful breakdown. 'Once Again' (DMX Krew Remix) is then a bumping acid-electro monster with fat drums and the manic 303 offset by serene chord work to make for a perfectly emotional dance floor delight.
'Freak The Funk' is a second original cut, as rides of crisp snares and snapping drum breaks blend with a warm bassline and smeared cosmic chords up top. It's a classy peak-time house cut with magical pixelated synth melodies.
Alongside superb artwork from PlanetLuke, this is another essential package from Hell Yeah.
DJ Support:
Sean Johnston (ALFOS), Kristian (AME), Fango, Front De Cadeaux, Sinchi Collective, Phat Phil Cooper, Balearic Gabba Sound System
The fourth release on Damo B’s Emotec label, following on from MOY, BufoBufo and Auto Sound City. This one is deeper than Atlantis!
The Cliffdive EP begins the journey of Astral X-Ray, the collaboration between Rain & White Transit Van. Inspired by a cosmic journey, the EP encompasses many facets of the duo’s influences.
Spanning from melancholic breakbeat to melodic fizzling electro, Cliffdive is a versatile EP that moves and evokes emotion in its listener in equal part.
GRAILS don’t mince words. Awesomely communicative but entirely instrumental, this dynamic band’s violin, guitars, piano, and drums collide with sober melodies and massive emotion. At alternate moments, Grails can sound vaguely classical, Eastern European, Irish, like the lost tapes of Pauline Oliveros, and, you know, rock. They’re not really like anything else on the Neurot roster, but they’ve got something in common with all the Neurot bands: a commitment to intense music that forges new paths and, yeah, communicates in the most real way possible.
Grails have their fair share of ambient noise - shivery violins, a trickle of a high-hat, the amplified scrape of a guitar string - but their music is based on strong, narrative melodies that resonate in the heart. At times it sounds delicate, but they never cower; Grails ROAR, even when they’re being quiet.
The Burden of Hope is the debut LP, following a pair of self-released, eponymous ep’s in 2000 and 2002. The LP is the culmination of a year’s worth of recordings, including a reinterpretation of Sun City Girls’ classic “Space Prophet Dogon.”
Grails are gathered in Portland, Oregon from Baltimore, Little Rock, Louisville, Chapel Hill, and Reno. As an ensemble, their respective backgrounds in hardcore, classical, folk, and rock blend seamlessly. Formed in late 2000 to execute live the bedroom recordings of guitarist Alex Hall, the once-tentatively-assembled group found unexpected success with both audiences and local press. Originally formed under the moniker Laurel Canyon, the name of the group was changed to Grails to coincide with the release of The Burden
"Multila" was the third album by Finnish producer Sasu Ripatti under the moniker Vladislav Delay. It compiles the "Huone" and "Ranta" 12"EPs Ripatti released on Basic Channel's Chain Reaction label in 1999 and 2000. The album features six hauntingly murky dub ambient tracks and the impressive 22-minute techno odyssey "Huone."
More than 20 years after its original release as a full-length CD album (Chain Reaction), these iconic recordings of modern electronic music are now available again as a double vinyl edition, featuring a revised artwork by Marc Hohmann that matches the new design of the "Whisteblower" and "Entain" reissues.
"Life films us exactly. Our experience of it, though, lies beyond images and descriptions. Emotions, coming in irrational flashes, are non-figurable. We lose our little connection to them very quickly. We look for forms which promise to take us to our own experience. We construct forms with this in mind: that they can take us to meet the subconscious. Multila's construction is principled this way. Fragments of experience, moments without definition or localisation are captured within tiny fragments of time and then within one's mindspace. We can look into it and see that experience has left some of its data to us. As we receive it, again and again, we are connected and reconnected to certain indefinable moments. Both during and after its recording, Multila is a tool to learn about the unintentional states of us. It is a way to see our own emotional loops. Multila is a soundtrack for vision." - Vladislav Delay in the year 2000
Pellegrino & Zodyaco, with their new single 'Malìa', continue the aesthetic and sonic journey of the project led by the Neapolitan producer, with a mixture of Neapolitan disco-funk and fusion steeped in Latin flavour that already explored the innermost corners of the soul with 'Quimere'. This new work captures the frenzy and vibrant character of Naples, with its rarefied atmospheres and infectious groove that evoke the beating heart of the city and take us on a journey through the wonder of life in search of the Mediterranean essence.
The 'Malìa' is enchanting, it’s that mysterious force that hides deep inside, transforming itself into a vortex of emotions through the fusion of involving rhythms and reflections on inner battles, on the importance of finding the 'light' to overcome conflicts and difficulties that hinder the ability to choose, a dreamlike mirage that opens a window on human vulnerability, a hymn to authenticity, to self-acceptance.
The celebration of dance in the Caribbean Escapade version is also an exhortation to escape from everyday life; it takes us into a sonic imagery that plays with the Neapolitan musical tradition and the freshness of Caribbean and Latin sounds. This summer single becomes an ode to the vital energy of dance music: there is no more time for hesitation, one must let oneself be carried away by the enthralling embrace of 'Malìa', like a call to awareness and the search for authenticity in life. Malìa becomes the guiding thread, the mystery that urges us to go beyond the confines of everyday life, to explore and celebrate the complexity of existence.
Crucial Toronto rapper / producer / DJ myst milano. returns with thrilling new album Beyond the Uncanny Valley, an exhilarating ride through hedonistic experimental hip-hop and house music that reinterprets the breadth of Black electronic music with addictive singular energy.
“I offer Beyond the Uncanny Valley as a working anthology of Black electronic music across generational, geographical and genre lines,” myst milano. writes. “I thought a lot about staples of Black art across the world that can be traced back to Africa, and that link the diaspora regardless of where our people end up and throughout all eras.”
A mighty example of this omnivorous and multifaceted awareness of Black creativity, Beyond the Uncanny Valley is a tidal wave, swallowing up Canadian House, Detroit Electro, Chicago Footwork, UK Jungle and Dubstep, Jersey / Baltimore / Philly Club, Southern Hip-Hop and West Coast Funk into the trail of euphoric destruction left by myst milano.’s trademark grimy, sweaty, lusty neo-R&B take on contemporary hip-hop.
Opening with “Thirteen”, the album hits with punch and immediacy. The track’s thumping kick and swirling, haunted synthesis represent myst milano.’s keen ability to nurture perfect symbiosis between production, arrangement and lyrical theme. It is equal parts dreamy, provocative, sexy and powerful, and, together, entirely unique to myst’s creative voice. As with Beyond the Uncanny Valley as a whole, it is evocatively storytelling, mixing vivid imagery with slick wordplay. We are introduced to myst’s groupie (formerly “a hater”), as their crew “causes damage you can’t afford”, while witty threats and erudite posturing flow out over a steadily expanding instrumentation that mimics myst’s breathless, sweatbox DJ sets.
“Ring Ring” is another key track. Glitching nuclear alarms give way to a bulldozing kick drum and in-the-red distortion on myst’s voice. The vocals hit at breakneck speed while the production retains a dirty, dirging stomp. It is formidable, intense, fun, and intimidating in all the right ways.
Underpinning the album is a mechanised female voice that has possessed the record like a replicant ghost. “When we go beyond the uncanny valley, we reach a state of perfect harmony where the robot has mimicked the human to the point of being indistinguishable,” myst says. “Who are we when we become perfect imitations of what the world wants instead of who we really are, which is imperfect and flawed and a little uncanny, anyway?” While the music of Beyond the Uncanny Valley is human, with real emotion and expression, it occasionally flirts with the beyond, reaching into a near future where reality and technology bleed into one.
Beyond the Uncanny Valley is myst milano.’s second full length, following 2021’s rapturously received debut Shapeshyfter, and a monstrously successful accompanying house remix on the UK’s legendary Defected Records.
Making their debut appearance on Steel City Dance Discs, Clouds, an irrefutable powerhouse of sound consisting of Liam Robertson and Calum Macleod, exercise their intensely unapologetic musical personality with their latest venture with Mass Hysteria, for SCDD040.
The Scottish duo have become recognised for their heavenly balance of euphoric soundscapes, ladened with break-neck percussion, ecstasy-induced melodies and rupturing drum patterns. All of these highly characteristic elements are found in Mass Hysteria; an EP that highlights the hard-edged nature of Clouds’ ever-evolving style.
Mass Hysteria is a five-piece project that is nothing short of atomic. Typically energy-fuelled, the duo coordinate a masterful blend of hard-hitting, four-to-the-floor basslines: a seemingly perfect marriage for an EP that sets the listener deep into a cosmic whirlwind of electronic emotions.
Mit ihren 12 Songs, die von dem spanisch-österreichischen Duo zwischen Barcelona und Wien geschrieben wurden, tauchen ATZUR auf 'Strange Rituals' tief in extreme Gefühle ein, wo wilde und rohe Drums auf dramatische Melodien treffen. Dabei bleiben sie den charakteristischen Elementen ihrer bisherigen EP-Releases treu: Epischer Sound und emotionale Tiefe. Mit ihrem umjubelten Auftritt beim diesjährigen Primavera Sound Festival konnten sie bereits überzeugen und mit Strange Rituals festigen ATZUR ihren Ruf als außergewöhnliche Drama-Pop Band.
Composed, produced and arranged by Evangelia VS, the artist behind Abyss X, Freedom Doll is the culmination of a year of emotional unloading through songwriting, offering an introspective journey into the ocean of her mind. Produced and recorded between an artist residency near the Mayan jungle in Mexico and her Berlin home, the album chronicles transformations the performer tackled mentally during the writing process, tracing the rollercoaster of falling in love during the pandemic, as well as the pleasures and tribulations of womanhood.
Freedom Doll encapsulates the romantic escapade between her voice and the guitar. The amalgamation of seduction, sexual tension, vulnerability and assertiveness pulses throughout the entirety of the album, spiralling out of the cracks spawned from her vocal chords. From the twirling dance between her lush harmonies and the progressions of the acoustic guitar in tracks such as Ascend and From Hot to Cold, to the explosive confrontation between the metallic and operatic qualities of her voice, the searing sound of the electric guitar in industrial rock / psychedelic anthems such as Torture Grove and Banyana and the cathartic momentum found in the gospel inclined chants in A CHEW - Freedom Doll untethers the dramatics and theatricality that defines Abyss X’s vocal performance and music production, while maintaining the sensual vibrations of her creative essence.
Freedom Doll is the encapsulation of the Minoan woman, the elusive harlequin tiptoeing her way through the “circus of terror” that is living and loving her way through womanhood. With this visual reference, Abyss X pays tribute to her ancestors and their groundbreaking ancient artistry. The back cover of the vinyl features a reiteration of depictions of bulls leaping found in Minoan frescoes; an inherently male cultural act that in the ancient Minoan times presumably gave expression to a tension that underlies man's somewhat tenuous mastery of nature. Freedom Doll’s artwork challenges this preconceived notion through an eco-feminist approach, bringing the Minoan woman slash Gaia in the seat of the bull leaper, taming the unhinged and predominantly male earth - threatening human force.
For Fans Of: Laibach, Trepaneringsritualen, Ulver, Skinny Puppy, industrialized Dead Can Dance, Celtic Frost. FORGOTTEN SUNRISE is a band both legendary and current; inventors in one era, and innovators in the present day. Celebrating their 30th anniversary this year, the group has evolved and morphed over time into its current formation of Anders Melts, Kadri Sammel, and Jaan Pullerits. A huge part of the Estonian cultural landscape that comprises dark music, Forgotten Sunrise began life as a death metal band in the early 90s, part of the movement that spawned groups such as Amorphis, Beherit, Anathema, My Dying Bride, and Katatonia. As styles converged, and electronics entered the picture, the group incorporated newer techniques and a more industrial approach over time, consolidating their methods into a unique strain they call “OUTDUSTRIAL” – outsider industrial. elu is the first album in the “HALL-ELU-JAH” trilogy. Starting in the middle, the band has an expansive story arc set across 3 albums. In this first presentation of the trilogy, elu synchronizes the classic Death Metal style vocal with ethereal female voice, horror atmosphere, and pounding EBM rhythyms to create 8 memorable and visceral tracks. From high-energy dancefloor-fillers like “Orthotoxic Waste” and “Deep Emoceans” to heavy industrial grinders like “Near Bye” and “iSaid” to the emotional close of “Meating 8:08” into “Elukas”, the album provides a serene metamorphosis, guiding the listener through the many-worlds-as-one experience of Forgotten Sunrise. – Forgotten Sunrise are: Anders Melts – Vocals, bass, guitars, cymbals, djembe, thunder tube, knife and fork. Kadri Sammel – Vocals, bass, keyboards, shaman drum Jaan “Suva” Pullerits – Controlling the arrangements of chaos Ants “Ank” Lill – B(l)ack vocals on “Elukas” Recorded, mixed, and mastered at In Dreams 2020-2022 Artwork by Rene 13 Cover Picture by hellish.cav Executive Producer for Ohm Resistance – Alexandra Portaluppi
Recommended for everyone who is into uncompromising dance music devoid of emotional signifiers and willing to catch a brief glimpse into the chaotic dimensions of a cold urban environment. credits releases September 1, 2023 Recorded and mixed by Low Order Mastered by Daniele Antezza at Dadub Mastering Artwork by Misha Brin Layout by Anna Haleta
For the second release, we have decided to place our trust in our longtime friend Trajano, who has joined forces with Villaça to deliver this massive weapon.
These two prolific DJs/Producers from Brazil take us on a journey from house to spaced-out electro, filled with rhythm and emotions.
Kharkiv born artists Komponente & Kurilo have been an integral part of the local scene in the past years both as DJs, Live-Act and Producers.
Now further apart since the beginning of the war they are still united in music and we are happy to finally share this EP with which was originally conceived when both artists were still Kharkiv based during the pandemic.
Kurilo has since made the journey to the New York via Berlin in recent months. While Komponente took refuge in Kyiv for some time after having sat out most of the fighting in and around Kharkiv while lending a helping hand to families and elders who couldn't manage or didn't have the means to leave the city when russia attacked.
At this point we are just happy and thankful to have both of them still with us and to be able to finally get this EP out which by now seems to have travelled from a past life to us in the here and now.
Pandemics or War this is Electronic Music charged with pure emotions produced during one crisis, released during the next and we will still dance to it during whatever comes next!
Italian DJ and producer Sourires (aka Andrea Antognoli) joins the Samosa stable for his debut with an explosive release that will take your breath away.
The EP kicks off with the title track, Pampasosa - a furiously groovy number which gets up right in your face from the get-go. Like an unstoppable train, Pampasosa hurtles along at 127bpm with its horns blaring and furnace blazing. De Gama is on the Re-Groove here, expertly applying the bells and whistles to this all powerful locomotive stomper.
A2 brings us ‘Liam’, which sounds like a track very close to Sourires heart. Think of glorious evening sunshine after the rain for this emotionally charged piece of music. The bass has you hypnotised, the strings make you soar and the vocal haunts your dreams. It bares its soul to you and you can’t help but love it for that.
On the B-side, ‘Keep Rolling’ (De Gama Re-Groove) gives no illusions as to what its intentions are. A rolling, bass-driven start builds to filtered vocals and punchy brass - we’re in house territory but it’s so much more than that. A prime-time fist pumper of a tune, this will have dance floors offering their souls to Sourires in exchange for good times.
Finishing off this four tracker is ‘Flavor’ (De Gama Re-Built). At 124bpm, it sneaks past you and taps you on the shoulder. Continuing the house vibe, Sourires brings us a swinging beat accompanied by dreamy vocals and subtle filtered keys. Strings and delicate guitar licks build to a glorious breakdown which reveals itself in full technicolour. Summery, sassy and sexy stuff.
Sourires has deliverdd a modern classic with the Pampasosa EP. This has to be in your record box for the summer - just watch the dance floor go!
For over twenty years on the turntables, I.G.N.A has imposed his sound in the best clubs in Europe. Born in Sicily and raised in Emilia, I.G.N.A’s music is appreciated by many important artists with whom he shares the main stages. As a producer he has released successful EPs on labels such as Deeperfect, Moan and Greatstuff.
This new single is inspired by old school sounds and synths combined with house in a future perspective.
The remix was entrusted to two masters of house music: Ricky L and MarcoRadi. With the intention of spreading new emotions everywhere, looking where no one else lingers, surprising oneself as the music moves in new directions.
As it celebrates its 50th anniversary, Bill Withers' Still Bill remains true to its title – and stands as the greatest male-fronted soul album not made by a singer named Marvin, Al, Sam, James, or Ray. Though the saying "keeping it real" did not exist in popular parlance when Withers released his sophomore effort on Sussex Records, no words better capture the music's approach, mindset, and value. Every facet of Still Bill radiates honesty, truth, and emotion.
These characteristics – along with Withers' strong singing, hybrid arrangements, and deceptively simple songwriting – have allowed the album to endure to the point where it sounds as fresh today as in 1972.
After rising into the Top 5 of the Billboard Album charts and attaining gold status within a year of release, Still Bill has long been evaluated not by sales – but according to its merit, spirit, and agelessness. Included by The Guardian on its "1,000 Albums to Hear Before You Die" list (2007) as well as in Tom Moon's 1,000 Recordings to Hear Before You Die book (2008), its contemporary standing as one of history's most venerated soul efforts eclipses the positive reception it enjoyed in the early ‘70s.
Still Bill walks the same hallowed ground as What's Going On, Call Me, Night Beat, and Genius + Soul = Jazz. Like those landmarks, Still Bill plays with a mix of consistency, effortlessness, and complexity that rewards repeat listening and transcends categorization.
In combining four of the era's predominant styles – Philly soul, sweaty funk, Southern-reared blues, acoustic-based folk – and melding them with standout production borrowed from both minimalist affairs and sophisticated singer-songwriter albums, Still Bill occupies a distinct universe.
Its rhythmic fare is equally laidback and invigorating; relaxing and rollicking; eloquent and muscular; soft and tough. Withers' calm, self-assured voice hovers above it all, doubling as a warm blanket that adds comfort and grace to lyrics steeped in maturity, perspective, and compassion.
Withers' balanced outlook on human desires, needs, and situations stem from his own existence as a former blue-collar employee who believed his time as a musician would soon end. That grounding forever separates Withers from other contemporary soul greats – and stamps Still Bill with a conversational nature and egoless approachability.
"I mean look, I'm really a factory worker," said Withers in 1972. "That's a real job." There's that word again: real. The songs on Still Bill are tethered to modesty and actuality, wedded to a belief in simplicity, and connected to universal truths that link us all – independent of our economic or social standing. No track better exemplifies those principles than "Lean on Me," a feel-good paean to brotherhood and community that hit No. 1 on the pop and R&B charts en route to becoming a mainstream staple.
Withers approaches the plainspoken insight on "Lonely Town, Lonely Street" and heartbreaking vulnerability of "I Don't Want You on My Mind" with similar sincerity and straightforwardness. His proclivity for authenticity extends to the record's other big hit: the sexual, funk-laden "Use Me," which reached No. 2 and reflects the singer's everyman persona. It's an identity couched in keeping it real, the very inclination that ultimately led Withers to retire in the mid-'80s rather than bend to industry pressures or risk credibility.
That commitment to truthfulness and realism helps make Still Bill feel as unaffected as the air we breathe. Looking back on "Lean on Me" years later, Withers said it seemed like "something that was there before I got here" – the kind of song that could be 100 or 10 years old, or one we encounter anew 10 years into the future. The same can be said for every note on Still Bill.
A new artist on the Citizen Records / Clivage Music roster, Vhinz is a musician based in Brussels. After taking his time to break onto the electronic scene, he’s now ready to share Belvédère, his debut, dreamlike album, confidently intense, sweeping between cinematic songs and soaring, epic electronic sounds.
Vincent Honca is Belgian, with Armenian roots and a love of keyboards: the mini synth he used to play as a child, the classical piano of his years of training at the Académie de Musique, the Yamaha synth of his teenage years... During the noughties of his adolescence, electronic music was omnipresent in his life as he listened to and admired Daft Punk, Moby, Vitalic, Air and The Chemical Brothers. He also went out dancing, a lot, in the nightclubs and parties of Brussels and the vicinity, and soon his love of computers, technology and synthesisers led to him producing his own music. “I wanted to create beautiful textures with synths,” he says. “I wanted to have fun and discover the possibilities. As part of the internet generation, I taught myself everything I know through reading magazines and checking the forums.”
Vincent went on to become a computer programmer and decided to make music in as much of his spare time as possible. His first productions came out in 2015, including “Drastical”, one of three deep house dancefloor-orientated tracks recorded with none other than Kris Menace. “At the time I was really searching for my musical identity,” explains Vincent, and progressively his music started to lean towards another of his passions – films and film music. “I’ve listened to soundtracks a lot since I was a teenager, and they’ve been a big influence, in particular the music for Heat by Elliot Goldenthal, Gladiator (Hans Zimmer), Saving Private Ryan (John Williams), The Last Temptation of Christ (Peter Gabriel), The Virgin Suicides (Air) and Leon (Eric Serra).” Coincidentally, Vincent has already worked on two independent Belgian films by director Christophe Karabache, UltravoKal and Vortex, both collaborations with Michel Duprez.
Now Vincent has chosen the name Vhinz, bringing together his expertise with machines and computers, his passion and enthusiasm for the electronic sounds of his adolescence and his adoration of cinema’s powerful, impactful soundtracks. Vhinz’s first track is thus called “Aether”, a track brimming with character and confidence, with sung-spoken vocals that sweeps the listener up in bewitching synthetic themes and drums like an off- kilter heartbeat. The track perfectly encapsulates the Vhinz sound, and Citizen Records – the only label he sent it to – immediately loved it and were ready to release a 12” with more. “Then Covid and the lockdown happened, and everything came to a complete halt,” remembers Vhinz. During those long two years without anything being released, the project continued its gestation and has now grown in a mini-album of eight coherent, fascinating tracks. “I really wanted a strong concept for everything, and so was born this album that I’ve called Belvédère. I imagined myself on a belvedere with a panoramic view of the world, channelling all the emotions it elicited in me into music.”
Belvédère is a dreamlike debut album, confidently intense, sweeping between cinematic songs and soaring, epic electronic sounds. It’s a place for Vhinz to showcase his dreams, talk, sing and invite others too: Margot Ferro sings on “Le Passage” and “Envole-moi”, and Michael Meers lends his vocals to “Evolution”. “My album tells a story, with the tracks in chronological order. There are both times of hope and darker periods of my life, with sadness and love,” meaning that listeners are invited to experience a suite of different emotions and be swept along by the author’s musical daydreams. Musically, the album falls somewhere between Moby, Vitalic, Air and Serge Gainsbourg, with a density and atmosphere that are completely Vhinz. “With Belvédère I was looking for beauty, but also something darker, dirtier, more organic. The album is the culmination of that.”
Manda Moor steps out on Mood Child for the first time as the label co-founder links with mysterious talent Trangaz for four fresh productions on their collaborative ‘Peligro’ EP.
Ever since dropping her debut release in 2020, Danish-Filipino talent Manda Moor has been on an impressive upwards curve and one that doesn’t seem to be slowing anytime soon.
Having dropped back-to-back releases on Jamie Jones and Lee Foss’ iconic Hot Creations imprint, the hotly-tipped DJ/producer and label founder heads to her Mood Child label for the first time. Founded and created alongside Sirus Hood, the label serves as an artistic platform, a community-focused label, and an events series that delivers quality music via digital and physical formats, plus NFTs, unique experiences, and more. An ‘invitation to a journey that blends feelings, emotions and desires’, with takeovers at Hï Ibiza, Café Mambo, Lovefest, Fabrik and more, the first release saw Sirus partner with fellow Frenchman Malikk, and now the second arrives in perfect time for the peak summer months as Manda combines with Boogeyman and Pakate signee Trangaz.
New York City born-and-raised, he draws lines between primitive and futuristic sounds and rhythms influenced by world travel and different cultures, and the two reunite for their four-track ‘Peligro’ EP.
Crafted together in Ibiza, the EP showcases sonics capturing the island’s unique magic. Lead cut ‘El Peligro (Ibiza Mix)’ is a production made after a special day at the coves and hidden treasures of Atlantis, under full moonlight near Talamanca, with the rolling organic drums grooves, playful vocal murmurs and vibrant melodies journeying deep into the night.
Next, ‘Tagalog’ keeps the energy bubbling with another percussive workout sprinkled with vocal interjections and spoken words in the native Filipino language it is named after, while B1 ‘Chatita’ is a slinking production as wonky stabs meet and snaking low-end grooves. Closing the EP, the pair deliver the most stripped-back track with ‘Buena Vibra’ as a killer groove guides vocal chants to wrap things up in fine fashion.
Manda Moor & Trangaz ‘Peligro’ EP drops via Mood Child in July 2023.
Special vinyl-edition of the legendary cassette, privately produced and
released by Maurizio Bianchi in November 1980.
he undisputed father of nuclearsurgic sound-degeneration and apocalyptic avantgarde produced one of his most radical and uncompromising works entitled COMPUTERS S.P.A., consisting of dense electronic segments, furious pulsations and harsh waveforms, formed by the KORG MS 20-synthesizer plus machinistic recordings from tape.
Maurizio Bianchi describes his early works as TECHNOISE SOUND coming from; strictly personal feeling, frustration and contradiction.
COMPUTERS S.P.A. is completely idiosyncratic piece of music, conceived with dramatic insistence, emotion; irrationality, hysterical scission, schizophrenic energy and madness.
The two improvisations inspired by computerized music can be defined as FINAL INDUSTRIAL MUSIC (term used by M.B.), the last sensation before the end.
After the "concretistic" beginnings and the synthesis between integral
concretism and artificial synthetism, in the autumn After the "concretistic" beginnings and the synthesis between integral concretism and artificial synthetism, in the autumn of 1980 I arrived at the synthetic court of the purest and most uncompromising electronics and thus the "COMPUTERS S. P. A." project was born, consisting of two improvisations on the Korg MS synthesizer-20, free of ancestral prejudice and freely inspired by computerized music that in the second half of the 70s was gaining ground in the academic schools of experimentation. After more than 40 years, these "technical rehearsals" could seem a playful and carefree exercise, while inste@d they cover a dramatic denunciation of the sounds generated without the basic help of emotion and spontaneity, essential elements of the most genuine and constructive avantgarde music.
Special mention about collage art design method in collaboration with Maurizio Bianchi, Siegmar Fricke and myself. A combination with traditional tecnique of collage, 'xeroxed copy' scan and digital treatment in 'Off-set' quality print. Taken original ideas from early 80's 'mailing trade' music on cassette format.
Nach einem Jahrzehnt der Abwesenheit erwachen The Mars Volta aus ihrer langjährigen Auszeit mit einem gleichnamigen Album, das ihr Selbst-verständnis radikal reformiert.
The Mars Volta wurden 2001 von Gitarrist/Komponist Omar Rodríguez-López und Sänger/Texter Cedric Bixler-Zavala gegründet und gingen aus der Punk-Rock-Band At The Drive-In aus El Paso hervor. Mit dem Ziel, "unsere Wurzeln und unsere Toten zu ehren", schufen The Mars Volta Musik, die die lateinamerikanischen Klänge, mit denen Rodríguez-López aufwuchs, mit dem Punk und Underground-Lärm, in den er und Bixler-Zavala jahrelang eingetaucht waren, und den futuristischen Visionen, die sie verfolgten, fusionierte.
Die folgenden Alben waren einzigartige Meisterwerke, deren Songs von atemberaubender Komplexität und zugleich von kraftvoller emotionaler Unmittelbarkeit geprägt waren.
Nachdem die Gruppe verstummt war, hielt eine Vielzahl von Fans (darunter Kanye West) die Trommel für ihre Rückkehr aufrecht. Das neue Album schüttelt einige der langjährigen Traditionen von The Mars Volta ab: Nur zwei Stücke sind länger als vier Minuten, und der
schwindelerregende, abrasive Prog-Stil der früheren Alben ist nicht vertreten. Stattdessen pulsiert "The Mars Volta" mit subtiler Brillanz, karibische Rhythmen untermauern die ausgefeilte, turbulente Songkunst.
Das ist The Mars Volta in ihrer reifsten, prägnantesten
und konzentriertesten Form.
- A1: 특급열차 (속에서) (Express Train (In The))
- A2: 아무에게도 말할 수 없소 (Can’t Tell Anyone)
- A3: 풋내기들의 합창 (A Chorus Of Fledglings)
- A4: 가을에 오시나요 (Will You Come In Autumn?)
- A5: 거인의 숲 (Giant’s Forest)
- A6: 그리움 (Longing)
- A7: 유리 인형 (Glass Doll)
- B1: 우리 강산 (Our Country)
- B2: 여운 (Afterglow)
- B3: 카멜레온 (Chameleon)
- B4: 어디로 갈까 (Where Shall I Go?)
- B5: 내일 또 내일 (Tomorrow And Tomorrow Again)
- B6: 바람 부는 강 언덕 (The Windy Hill By The River)
Original release date: April 15, 1979
Sanullim's 4th album consists of background music and insert songs for TV and radio dramas and plays, including Korean Film director Im Kwon-taek's movie "Tomorrow And Tomorrow Again". It is a noteworthy collection of works that has not faded with the unique scent of Sanullim, and contains several songs that still shine with charming emotions and whimsical or vague sensibilities.
Express Train (Inside), a mountain sound-style hard rock with dynamic rhythm, fuzz guitar, and Kim Chang-hoon's wild shouting, Kim Chang-wan's soft vocal and brilliant keyboard sound, Can't Tell Anyone, Love It includes the elegant performance songs Glass Doll and The Windy Hill By The River, and the beautiful song Afterglow that achieves the climax of romance and lyricism.
"We find ourselves venturing into the depths of a rugged terrain. In our hands, we hold stones and minerals, each possessing its own distinct texture, weight, and sonic potential. It is through the artistic touch and through the musical instruments that these earthly treasures, once dormant, are awaken to life." — Sara Oswald + Feldermelder
The 3rd collaboration of prolific cellist Sara Oswald and electronic musician Feldermelder evokes captivating sensations that oscillate between impending doom and hope. The albums' sonic journey is highly immersive, transporting the listener from one cerebral landscape to another. The transformative nature of metallic elements being integrated in sustained orchestral tones weaves the sonic tapestry, resulting in a captivating experience for the listeners. The organic sounding — reminiscent of minerals' timbres — brings a touch of brightness and a distinctive edge, while the orchestral harmonic structures lend a sense of grandeur and continuity. The origins of this music remain enigmatic, while the tracks of the album gradually unveil concealed aspects and the hidden truth.
One can step into a realm where melodies are reborn, as Sara Oswald's cello spins tales and emotions burst forth. Nature's eternal splendor intertwines with the essence of music, as she infuses harmonies with the soul of mountains. Vibrant hues come alive with delicate strokes, and cascading notes resonate with a select few. Feldermelder conjures profound echoes that swirl like ancient whispers of the earth's primordial past. He sculpts textures, from fragmented glitches to expansive atmospheres, that warp the fabric of reality. The two musicians merge together harmoniously, blending the acoustic and electronic worlds into a transcendent unity. This fusion of contrasting elements adds a unique and intriguing quality to the music. The cello's warmth merges with pulsating electronic beats, creating a symphony of contrasts and sonic upheaval. Each composition is woven in intricate layers, combining electroacoustic architecture with delicate precision. A subtle balance of chaos and control permeates the music as it meanders through the labyrinth of the mind. The soundscape unfolds like a grand tapestry, distant echoes murmuring like grains of sand.
Trained in baroque cello and advocating improvised music, Sara Oswald is the perfect match for sound artist and electronic musician Feldermelder. She plays solo, composes for film and theatre and collaborates with musicians like The Young Gods, Pascal Auberson, Sophie Hunger and Julian Sartorius. Feldermelder is a polymathic creative whose artistry spans composition, sound design, installation and code. He is co-founders of -OUS and part of Encor.studio, a collective of artists who specialise in creating immersive audio-visual installations. Through his work, he explores the idea of secrecy and its impact on our lives, using music and sound to create a thought-provoking and immersive experience for his audience.
From the mountains to the sea as the region they were born in. Sometimes it's better to listen than to speak. Dmfl post-rock instrumental band deals with dreams and desires through its oneiric and cathartic compositions. Dmfl once again collaborated for their visual representations with the international street artist Millo, whose cover artwork, tuned up and focused on how listening is a way to go deeper into the emotions, descending into the core of the sound.
Respect The Craft's archives keep growing. After a double-hitter with Ricardo Villalobos, Tripmastaz is back on solo duties for the third iteration of RTC with "Rare Sensation EP".
Filling the a-side with the warmest summery vibes, 'Rare Sensation' perfectly displays Andrei's deep love for house music - groove, rhythm, emotional chords and club-ready, euphoria-inducing samples very tightly reminiscent of the world's best beach parties. A "deeper dub" version is also available, stripping down some elements and bringing a classier, less euphoric tone to the forefront.
'3000' has the virtuosic producer back to exploring the minimal and deep tech-house realms while, in essence, still targetting the summer-drenched tropical raves. And where the original version is a driving, slightly dryer, percussion-infused affair, its dubbier 'Space Program' version brings all its elements to the astral plain, filling the space with melody and atmosphere.
Respect The Craft - a goal, a call, and a mission.
Expansion is the 7th EP on Belgium based Nightflight Records. On several levels it is a deft alignment of the label’s emotional techno aesthetic with Mihail Petrovski’s ability to deliver exquisitely poised music that drives deep into the mind and soul. The EP is a fine addition to his discography presented by the likes of Ferox, Common Dreams, Verdant Recordings & Distant Worlds over the last half decade.
Petrovski possesses an incredible appreciation of the history of deep techno and evidently distils that into his own craft, whilst adeptly melding a sound that is undoubtably his own. This 4 tracker, all original compositions, manifests an uncluttered platform to fully appreciate those talents. Elegantly programmed percussion is balanced with sumptuous basslines and pads but leave wide open spaces for heart warming melodies on each of these tracks.
Tsuris is arguably the most urgent on the record with a warm pressing kick. Omec switches around a superb elastic bassline. Dream Thief brings the tempo down but its innocent celestial melodies linger in the mind. Closing out with Circadian Rhythms, its broken percussion becomes the focus with a sophisticated nod to the finest of mid 90’s UK deep techno.
James Adrian Brown is a British-born songwriter and former lead guitarist from the alternative rock band ‘Pulled Apart By Horses’. After studying art for six years in Leeds (UK), Brown set up his own independent record label in the city and would soon begin carving out a career as a professional musician. After achieving chart success, touring the world and releasing four critically acclaimed studio albums with PABH, James has begun paving a pathway into the world of instrumental electronic music and composing.
Brown's solo work is heavily electronica-based utilising analogue synths alongside tape machines, piano, strings and walls of ambient atmospherics. His work focuses on the analogue side of capturing and creating sound in the real world with physical hardware.
He’s received support from the likes of Gideon Coe at BBC 6music and also Chris Hawkins who championed him as creating ‘Massive electronic soundscapes in a Mogwai kind of world’. James was also featured on BBC Radio 3’s ‘Unclassified’ show by the show host Elizabeth Alker.
Taking inspiration from influences such as Boards Of Canada, Rival Consoles, Floating Points & Thom Yorke. Brown is discovering, advancing, and pushing his songwriting into new sonic domains.
“There is Space Under Your Seat” is a beautifully constructed piece of electronica which is inspired by a longing to create mental space and pause emotions when things become overwhelming. The title was penned after James found himself on a sold out air-flight with disgruntled passengers complaining of little to no space for their luggage.
James recorded the tracks at *ICP Studios in Belgium after crafting the demos in his own studio in the Yorkshire Dales where the compositions were tracked to his tape machines. It was decided by (Producer) James Mottershead they’d breathe new life and space into the tracks in a new environment/studio, which saw them head to Brussels to complete the recordings.
The 7” is released as a deluxe red vinyl single with numbered photo/inserts selected and created by James. The single is issued in a limited edition of 200 copies.
Wildflower is a trio comprising Idris Rahman (sax), Leon Brichard (bass) and Tom Skinner (drums).
The trio takes you on an intense, meditative and spiritual musical journey that embodies the spirit of freedom. Based around hypnotic grooves laid down by Brichard’s unswervingly solid bass lines, drummer Skinner plays around artfully with the beats, grooving hard in constantly shifting, unexpected turns of rhythmic play. Rahman’s contributions range from subtle conversational interplay to loudly expressed angry passion to the most delicate of whispers, conveying a depth of emotion and a deep sense of musical structure withIn an ever changing sea of musical conversation.
Using simple, arresting melodies as a starting point, the trio create freely improvised waves of emotion ranging from powerful climaxes to hauntingly beautiful breath-like passages and everything in-between, creating unique forms and structures that react to the acoustics and the atmosphere of the situation.
Taking inspiration from the spiritual jazz pioneers such as John and Alice Coltrane, Pharoah Sanders, Yusef Lateef and Sun Ra, compositional influences range from Gnawa music to modal jazz to Bengali folk music but the scope is wider still and the important unifying factor is the spontaneous communication and interplay between the three musicians. Rather than having a tight rigid structure, the tunes are allowed to breathe and develop into new unexplored forms, allowing fresh interpretations that make each performance a unique experience.
The album is a collection of live and studio recordings that have been recorded and mixed by the band.
Sonic chaotic, tender terror. On New Stone, Lithuanian producer Kamile Rimkute a.k.a. Caline with C dazes and uplifts us with her reflective post-modern electronics. This album is a personal long-term project in the making, one of auditive self-expression, treading across themes such as adventure, love, discovery and grounding.
The album is driven by Kamile's interest in futuristic boundary-crossing music and intersectional feminism, as well as her studies in Sonology. With an advanced skill for composition, sound synthesis and her knowledge on the totality of sound, she claimed the means of production, as New Stone is all produced, mixed and mastered by herself.
New Stone was recorded in a period of two years that started in 2020 and incorporates highlights of her landmark livesets ever since. New Stone is full of concocted emotion that sustains and releases through her trademark of stark contrasts - triplet-driven, jolted yet angelic atmospheres - resulting in a tangible, body-driven sound.
Interweaving her vocals near the final salvo, this album marks the end of a creative cycle and start of a next, allowing her personal touch to seep through her art more and more. Embarking from home ground, stepping on a new stone.
The formidable Rex The Dog returns with his first single for Kompakt in three years, “Change This Pain For Ecstasy”, a slow-burning disco-glitter stomp that’s charged with analog energy. Pushing his self-built modular hardware set-up to its limits, “Change This Pain For Ecstasy” is taut and thrilling, stripped-back and pulsating, with sweeping chords shimmering through a classic Moroder arpeggio, as a delirious voice sings out a psychedelic raver’s plaint for liberation, pleading for you to "take away my sorrow and this pain”. Deeply emotional, it’s also a masterwork in tension and release, dizzy with snare-rush peaks, and dark, humid valleys where Rex is bound to the patchbay.
On the flipside, Rex gives us “Moto”, which tickles your ear with cymatic phenomena, its gentle vibrations building, beautifully, into a monster-piece of stealth techno. Rex’s DIY synths work overtime as he chases patterns and phases through circuitry, wielding the tones until they erupt into a spray of pointillist pizzicato. The sounds here crackle and corrode, the textures so tantalizing, so sensual, you can almost grab hold of them with your hands. It’s great to have Rex The Dog back, making livewire, yet deeply human techno, alive and bursting with electricity.
Der formidable Rex The Dog kehrt mit seiner ersten Single für Kompakt seit drei Jahren zurück, “Change This Pain For Ecstasy”, ein mit analoger Energie aufgeladener, stürmischer Disco-Glitter-Stomper. Man kann förmlich spüren, wie Rex’ selbstgebautes modulares Hardware-Setup an seine Grenzen gerät. “Change This Pain For Ecstasy” ist eine Hymne an das Nachtleben, an die kathartische Qualität einer durchtanzten Nacht. Über schwungvolle Akkorde und ein hochenergetisches Moroder-Arpeggio bittet eine delirierende Stimme um Befreiung von allem Leid und Schmerz. Das ist zutiefst rührend und emotional – da es sich hier aber um ein Meisterwerk der Spannung und Entspannung handelt – schwingt sich der Track plötzlich auf in schwindelerregende Höhen der Euphorie.
Auf der anderen Seite gibt Rex uns “Moto”, das das Ohr mit zymatischen Phänomenen kitzelt, deren sanften Vibrationen sich zu einem Monster von Stealth-Technotrack aufbauen. Rex’ DIY-Synthesizer machen Überstunden, während er Muster und Phasen durch die Schaltkreise jagt bis sie in einen Sprühregen aus pointillistischem Pizzicato ausbrechen. Die Sounds hier knistern und korrodieren, die Texturen so verlockend, so sinnlich, dass man sie fast mit den Händen greifen kann.
Es ist großartig, Rex The Dog zurück zu haben, der hochverdrahteten und doch zutiefst menschlichen Techno macht, voller Leben und Elektrizität.
The decade of the 80s is revived through recordings like "Eyes" that allow you to travel through the music and trigger those old emotions of innocence, joy and adventure. It's possible you don't understand a word of what they're singing in the chorus, but the song is very catchy! Maybe not even Maria Chiara Perugini knows what she sings about, but she makes you hang on to every word of her like a nursery rhyme of synths, beach and bubblegum. "Eyes" is so amazing, so mesmerizing and more and more people are discovering this italo-disco masterpiece that usually satisfies and makes fun of you at the same time. If you try playing it at 75% speed gives a hypnotic vapor wave vibe! And even more, the song would have fit well in the dance club scenes from Scarface. Beyond the words - difficult to find a text that makes sense, sometimes out of context, unundestandable even for a French listener - the piece is so surprisingly likeable for the unique tone of Clio's voice, a strange cross between teenager and adult, and the part where she spoke another language, with some really cool synthesizers, are people's favorite parts. 0:31 "Je suis bien heureuse" , 0:47 "La nuit a ses merveilles", 0:57 "Il y a de quoi y perdre la tete, pour toi, sha, pour toi", 1:36 "Je n'ai plus de bulles", 1:52 "Je vous prie applaudissement". "Eyes" by Clio contains all the emotions that a dance-pop song should contain plus the essential element of mystery, a kind of magic that takes place between the chorus and the bass line, a shot in the dark drizzly night of the Italo-Disco. made by Roberto Ferrante, a guarantee for the perfect productions of the 80s, when he was only 20 years old.
For our ninth journey on ´Future Romance´ the aspiring and promising german duo Add-us are delivering 3 top notch productions called "Change of direction", "Faces of the moon" and "Play of shades" packed with strong synth lines and emotional moments for the deeper dancefloors.
The DJ and producer duo which consists of the two friends Robert and Patrick teamed up in 2018 for the project Add-us. Since then they´ve released their music on labels like Parquet Recordings, Renaissance or 3000 Grad, just to name a few.
Early DJ support by Tale of us, Camel Phat, Fideles, Einmusik, Anii, Hunter/Game, Raphael Mader, Markus Kavka, Ron Flatter and more.
Get ready for schntzl 2.0
On their 3rd album Casper Van De Velde and Hendrik Lasure, the two SpongeBobs of Belgian jazz, enter Cortizona and take you on board of their newly discovered musical spectrum: Rollercoastin' between extreme emotions Casper and Hendrik slide through 90's Euro-optimism on synths, frantic drum rolls, lost piano sounds and sample wizardry: blending Spanish guitars, voices of singing ladies, slow mo clarinets and the patterns of a percussion robot.
'Holiday' is the result of a residency in Ravenna, Italy, in October 2021, where musique concrète, replica sounds and frenetic hyperpop textures sneaked into the musical world of schntzl. Sculpting a world of friction, hypodermic joyful changes, sad euphoria and good old plain fun.
RIYL: Matmos in a jazz mood, free vibin PC Music, Enya on XTC, improvising Valentina Magaletti, moody SOPHIE, BadBadNotGood going GoodGoodNotBad and other excellent music.
CLIKNO is thrilled to announce the upcoming release of the highly-anticipated Peripherie Remix EP of four tracks from rand's critically acclaimed album "Peripherie" set to drop on May 26th, 2023.
Featuring remixes by Steevio, Deadbeat, Dr.Nojoke, and Andrea Cichecki, some of the most exciting names in the underground electronic music scene, this limited EP promises to take you on a journey through a spectrum of sounds and emotions.
Steevio kicks off the EP with a groundbreaking remix of "Lucid", marking the first time a remix by this highly regarded artist will appear on vinyl.
With his signature style of intricate modular grooves and atmospheric pads, Steevio's remix takes the original to new heights that we are sure to captivate and move you.
Next up is Deadbeat, a veteran of the dub techno scene, with a stunning drone remix of "San Gimignano".
His signature use of space and bass is on full display, as he crafts a cavernous and immersive soundscape that is sure to take the listener on a journey through the depths of sound, leaving you lost in its mesmerizing drone.
Dr.Nojoke, known for his experimental and genre-defying productions, transforms “Hoola” into a deep and introspective chill-out tune featuring lush pads and intricate percussion.
This remix is perfect for some legendary afterhour sessions.
Rounding out the EP is Andrea Cichecki's ethereal ambient remix of "Siegfried 2.0".
This remix captures the essence of the original track while adding an otherworldly dimension with its haunting and immersive sound design.
With this remix EP, CLIKNO once again showcases its commitment to pushing the boundaries of electronic music.
All four remixes on this EP are a testament to the exceptional talent of these artists, and we're excited to share their unique visions with the world.
At long last, hi-tek whizz-kid Metrist returns to Timedance with the third addition to the ‘Pollen’ series and brings his epic trilogy started in 2019 to a breath-catching end.
Elevating an already unique approach of sonic craftsmanship to whole new levels, the London based producer delivers some of his wildest and most dramatic compositions to date while pushing further his signature blend of 22nd century dancefloor pyrotechnics.
From the angelic vocal cascades of opener « Leven Lever Liver Love » to the heart-wrenching heights of « Bullet Time », a playful and intricate display of cross-pollinated emotions shines through this collection of boundary pushing tracks, giving them a life of their own while bringing a stormy cycle of auditory experiments into human nature to completion
As thunderstorms form, pollen grains often ascend into clouds, soaking up humidity to a point they inevitably burst out, liberating innumerable particles that tumultuous winds send back to ground-levels.
With a false sense of distance and safety, we sit back and watch the lightning strike in complete awe, unaware of pollen slowly descending from the skies, making its way through our lungs and deep into our bodies ; the storm may be over, but Pollen has now fully become a part of us.
Reflections of the Sun is a collection of new music that see JOHN ROCCA experiment with a more laid back side to his musical personality. John is best know in Jazz Funk circles for his 1980s self funded, self produced and self released Brit Funk classic 'Southern Freeez', and as the band Freeez's founder.
"The melancholic suburban soul of ‘Southern Freeez’ never gets tired for me....an album that has remained at the top of my Brit Funk pile!" - GILLES PETERSON
Much of the album is also somewhat reflective. A personal and emotional reflection on John's life - the tracks a nod to John's varied musical pasts. Sounds, a pondering upon his collection of global influences and his life experiences over the years; Genre, the pulse of today, societal, musical or otherwise - but not easy to place as is John's character; Lyrics, the present dilemmas we face as humanity, whilst reflecting on our own private and deepest human feelings, of life and, of love in all its wonderous forms.
Musically, the 'Reflections of the Sun' album casts a glimpse back to Rocca's Brit Funk roots growing up amongst 1970s classic Jazz Funk and Soul, while also blending inspiration from his 1980-90s electronic influences topped off with everything else he has seen and heard on his life travels since then.
Giving a nod to John's own past while bringing Reflections of the Sun up to date was completed by adding elements of London's re-surgent and vibrant jazz scene. Not so different from John’s own early days jamming with Freeez, he is accompanied on all the album's tracks by his two young nephews and highly respected jazz musicians, Benjamin Rocca on keyboards and Joel Rocca on Saxophone. The two youngsters are known on the current London Jazz scene as the "Rocca Brothers".
The album's title track, "Reflections of the Sun" refers to how humanity, gorging on the sunshine that brings life to everything, also has a tendency to reflect the hellishness of the sun itself. Comparing our self-destructive nature with our planet's volumes of un-ending beauty.
Initial support for various tracks has come via radio plays on UK stations such as JazzFM, Jazz Funk & Soul Radio (JFSR), Soul Groove Radio and Solar (amongst others).
The fourth release on Denis Horvat's Vokabularium brings you the fresh sounds of none other than Auggië. Having had multiple releases and remixes on the likes of Innervisions, Borders Of Light, Sum Over Histories, Auggië brings us 3 new tracks weaving together groove and emotion. the EP will also feature a remix from Horvat himself. Expect to hear these making the rounds this year.
Powerful downtempo ballad with heavy emotions from Louisiana based guitarist Chris McCaa.
Originally released as a 7” promo oriented record in 1983, the band had hopes of it leading to bigger projects but most of the pressing probably ended up in someone's basement with very few copies available online. 40 years later, “If I Had To Say Goodbye” is back again to bless your ears at the ending sets of special dancefloors.
Featuring a sound that is highly reminiscent Chris Rea's aesthetic, both in terms of vocal and guitar use, yet still breaking new ground in the power ballad department. Now in 12” 45rpm format with an extended edit by Castro on the B-side, remastered at Berlin's finest manmade mastering.
Recently created Guatemalan label Identidata is extremely proud to present Sacratávica, the very first collected survey of Joaquín Orellana’s compositions. With a career spanning over 50 years of activity across contemporary art, performance, theater and sound art, Orellana is a highly singular figure in Guatamalan culture. Often considered to be the sole avant-garde composer in the country, his work has a deeply interdisciplinary quality. Most of his music was created using an orchestra of his self-built instruments, also known as Útiles Sonoros. Sitting at the border of sculpture, sound installation and musical instrument, these Útiles Sonoros, which he’s been building and developing since the late ‘60s, are at the center of his artistic activity.
Aside the obvious formal aspect, his compositions also have a strong political message, while being deeply rooted in Guatemalan history, folklore and various identities, both indigenous and modern. Playful opener “Híbrido a presión” was one of the first of his compositions to be performed entirely using the Útiles Sonoros. However, due to its technical complexity the piece was seldom reproduced, except for a later staging that Orellana directed in Louisville, Kentucky. “Ramajes”(1984), initially titled “Evocación profunda y ramajes de una marimba” , tracks the many incarnations of the marimba across history, before reaching its final form as one of Orellana’s instruments by combining vibrational percussion with melody and poetry fragments.
The title track, ‘’Sacratávica’’, represents one of the most ambitious and emotionally charged pieces from the album. An expansive 22 minute composition mixing textures that mimick field recordings and multi-layered vocal melodies culminating in choral catharsis, ‘’Sacratávica’’ deals in baroque maximalism without ever feeling cluttered. For the casual listener, the track immediately stands out, not only because of the moving vocal layered harmonies, but also through its epic scale and strong sonic narrative. Dubbed “Las voces del Rio Negro”, the piece references the massacres that took place in Coban during a period where the army massacred numerous towns, throwing the bodies in the nearby Rio Negro (the Black River).
Final track, “Fantoidea”, a glistening, metallic ambient improvisation, was a reimagining of Disney’s Fantasia using Paul Dukas’s “The Sorcerer's Apprentice” as inspiration.
Despite his work being presented in numerous exhibitions and concerts in various prestigious museums and theaters across the world, very few quality recordings exist to date. The only previously available recordings so far or either of very poor quality or did not receive enough attention. This is why, although The compositions presented not being previously unheard, having them all together in a high quality audio object represents a key moment In Guatemalan and Latin American culture.
Recorded on August 31st 2016 during a historical concert attended by over 1000 people at the Centro Cultural Miguel Angel Asturias, designed by Efrain Recinos, one of Guatemala’s leading contemporary artist from the last century, the four pieces were performed by a selection of over 90 musicians (including 60 vocalists) who were already familiar with Orellana’s instruments, cherry-picked from the Guatemalan Conservatory.
For the people behind Identidata, it has been a long and arduous process to put together these pieces. Trying to offer a panoramic view of Orellana’s work, the curators have selected pieces ranging from different decades and artistic periods. Sacratávica is a portrait of a singular artist whose work speaks not only to his culture, but carries strong aesthetic sensibilities that resonate universally.
Speicher 125 is a most auspicious collaboration between two great, inimitable voices in techno: Kompakt co-founder Michael Mayer, and Magazine’s own Barnt. They’ve both been productive of late, Mayer with his “Brainwave Technology” EP in 2021, Barnt with his first release on Kompakt, "ProMetal Fan Decor Only Product" in 2022. Of course, they’re also busy with their respective record labels, and international DJing schedules.
You may already have heard their first track, which appeared on Michael’s "&" album from 2014, the psychedelic “Und Da Stehen Fremde Menschen”. For Speicher, though, they set their sights firmly on the peak time dance floor – the result is two stunning cuts of techno euphoria.
On “Teller” Barnt and Mayer unleash a synth storm, tense and thrilling. Percussion piles up against the incessant buzz, but before too long we’re submerged in waves of dense texturology, making the track an object lesson in tension and release. “Duration” is a bittersweet anthem about "life long love". A moving voice tells us about "faith in life" while gleaming, synths, choral swarms and snares shower down from above to form an epic tale about duration and devotion.
Weirding the groove and updating the emotions, Speicher 125 is a monster.
Speicher 125 ist die Zusammenarbeit zwischen zwei unnachahmlichen Stimmen des Techno: Michael Mayer, Mitbegründer von Kompakt, und Barnt von Magazine. Beide waren in letzter Zeit nicht unproduktiv, Mayer mit seiner "Brainwave Technology" EP, Barnt mit seiner ersten Veröffentlichung auf Kompakt, "ProMetal Fan Decor Only Product". Natürlich sind sie auch mit ihren jeweiligen Plattenlabels und internationalem DJing beschäftigt.
Vielleicht hast Du schon ihre erste Kollaboration gehört, die auf Michaels "&"-Album von 2014 erschienen ist, das psychedelische "Und Da Stehen Fremde Menschen". Für "Speicher" haben sie den Peak-Time-Dancefloor ins Visier genommen - das Ergebnis sind zwei atemberaubende Stücke voller Techno-Euphorie.
Auf "Teller" entfesseln Barnt und Mayer ein Synthie-Gewitter, spannend und mitreißend. Die Percussion türmt sich gegen das unaufhörliche Summen auf, aber schon bald tauchen wir in Wellen dichter Texturen ein, was den Track zu einer Lehrstunde in Sachen Spannung und Entspannung macht. "Duration" ist eine bittersüße Hymne über "lebenslange Liebe". Eine bewegte Stimme erzählt uns vom "Glauben an das Leben", während schimmernde Synthies, Chorschwärme und Snares von oben herab eine epische Geschichte über Ausdauer und Hingabe prasseln.
Speicher 125 ist ein Monster, das den Groove neu erkundet und die Emotionen auffrischt.
- A1: Begrüßung Und Buntspecht
- A2: Afraid Of Seeing Stars? (Heimische Gefilde Edit)
- A3: Uhu
- A4: Adler (Heimische Gefilde Edit)
- A5: Rote Waldameise
- A6: Klangteppichverleger Wolle (Heimische Gefilde Edit)
- B1: Goldammer
- B2: Die Alpenstrandläufer Von Spiekeroog
- B3: Feldgrille
- B4: Björn Borkenkäfer (Heimische Gefilde Edit)
- B5: Eistaucher
- B6: Der Hecht Im Karpfenteich (Heimische Gefilde Edit)
- C1: Gelbbauchunke
- C2: Die Rotbauchunken Vom Tegernsee (Heimische Gefilde Edit)
- C3: Nachtigall
- C4: Gasthof "Zum Satten Bass" (Heimische Gefilde Edit)
- C5: Rauhhautfledermaus Und Großer Abendsegler
- C6: Der Buchdrucker (Heimische Gefilde Edit)
- D1: Waldkauz
- D2: Harzer Roller (Heimische Gefilde Edit)
- D3: Ein Stelldichein Des Westerwälder Vogelchores
2026 Repress
Originally released in 2007 on CD and now re-released on double vinyl. "Heimische Gefilde" was the second full-length release on Traum at that time from Westerwald based DJ, producer and park ranger, Dominik Eulberg. Dominik has since then expended his activities enormously now appearing as a book author with best selling books in the German official bestseller list. He ist he ambassador of the most popular Conservation Union in Germany NABU, he has created a bird quartet and a hand made insect hotel and appears on national German TV regularly next playing in clubs world wide and producing stunning music. "Heimische Gefilde" includes spoken words by the man himself and the release won the price of the German critic awards for music. It is the only compilation that comprises a selection of Dominik Eulberg’s best early works and it is for the first time available on vinyl now.
As Dominik Eulberg says in his own words: „After more than 16 years, "Heimische Gefilde" is finally released on vinyl. At that time it was still a daring experiment to combine music with lustful science communication. Quickly one was thrown into the pot of the "weird eco-techno sound owl". Today, we are increasingly finding that we cannot stop the impending ecocide in a cognitive way. For more than 60 years we have known about the concrete threats to humanity from global warming and species extinction; yet nothing changes. Many alarmist efforts fail miserably, red lists grow longer and longer each year, and global temperatures continue to rise unchecked. It is becoming clearer and clearer that we have to reach out to our fellow human beings in a positive emotional way in order to make a difference, because we only protect what we love. Then sentimental minorities become majorities that change something. Art and culture are low-threshold vectors to make things majority-friendly. They are a fertile and valuable breeding ground to sensitize people outside the eco-bubble and to let their environment become a co-environment again. Today my transdisipilnary work is inseparable. I write books, develop games, lecture, make film, and am a visiting scholar at museums. "Heimische Gefilde" was a valuable cornerstone for my creative work, a very intrinsic work to go my very own way.“
We would also like quote here the description of Forced Exposure done at the time when the album was originally recorded and released to keep the authentic feel: „The influence of nature (bird twitters, owl hoots, flowing water, crunching leaves) and other domestic sounds has made his music easy to identify with. „Heimische Gefilde" means "native habitat," and this release takes the concept of his debut a step further and at the same time is a retrospective of his major hits. Tracks like "Die Rotbauchunken vom Tegernsee" and "Björn Borkenkäfer" are included here in unreleased edits that are even stronger than the originals, and as a bonus, previously vinyl-only
The eccentric beat ambassador Alexander Skancke showcases his sound once more on his Quirk label, diving into spring with his debut LP, “Kingdom Couch”. The Norwegian has crafted a versatile yet cohesive body of work between 2020 and 2023, parallel to when he began attending sessions with a therapist. The 10 track double 12” traverses between meticulously arranged minimal moods, shuffling jazz rhythms and ethereal experimental textures. In its few years of existence Quirk has become a safe haven for a freedom of expression as Skancke and his affiliates share their wild side on the label, but the LP marks a milestone on the imprint and for Alexander himself whose lifelong dedication to sound has built towards this moment, utilising the vast influences has absorbed over the years.
“Therapy Session I” teases you into the LP, shimmering blissfully as it grows, blossoming into a dream-like world, tuning your ears for the trip you are about to encounter. Constructed upon slick jazzy drums is “Lost In Time” loosening your senses as the pulsating bass swallows up your train of thought. “Dumbo Move” blurs the lines perfectly between the atmospheres the Berlin based producer has captured within the album. Dark, mysterious and mind bending material in “Purple Lucy” a chugging sub heavy bass driving the track forward as precise beeps and bleeps whirr throughout. On a more playful note is the B2, “Extravagance” animated drum patterns converse with the elastic groove perfectly. Closing off the first vinyl is “Therapy Session II”, another extended exploration of otherworldly ambience, drifting deeper in the world of Quirk.
“The Magnificent Tree Hut” stirs consistently throughout, crisp percussion combined with the psychedelic vocal samples which continue to flash in and out. Transitioning now into “Therapy Session III” sophisticated sounds, enticed further into the full bodied experience by the storytelling sounds of a female voice. Your eyes begin to close and you wake up in a hazy club setting, immersed in the after hours; that’s the immediate impact of “New Dawn”, pensive and hypnotic as it rumbles quietly in the realms of the underground. At just over ten minutes long Alexander Skancke brings you down for landing with the final “Therapy Sessions IV”, transcending movements crammed full of raw emotion, floating you calmly
out of the seventh outing on the label, and the thriving talents finest work to date.
The “Kingdom Couch” is an amalgamation of Skancke’s undying passion and burning desire to create outside of the norm, this can be heard throughout this masterpiece and will undoubtedly inspire its listeners to search for the bigger picture.
Artwork: Johann 3000
Mastering: Mike Grinser, Manmade Mastering
the EP FACE I is an evolution from the previously released album JAHRE. it fits into the narrative of urban life and our own personal development. both chronology and emotions are explored here and adapted with lyricism and atmospheric digital and analog sound.
it starts with 1984, beginning of our emotional journey and also literary (GEORGE ORWELL) fixpoint of the electronic adaptation. we feel a kind of lightness in our society, upswing and freedom determine everyday life for a large part of germany. we are free, everything seems possible! almost we move through an utopia. new prosperity and contentment let us blossom, no digital friends and in-between worlds alienate our seemingly naive and peaceful being.
in TMV a first individual emotional world comes to the fore, the mood is mixed and seems fragile. euphoria and melancholy mix to an undefined state of emotional and musical confusion. LYRIK gets a first big space here and carries from the part of confusion into a part of detachment. despite the ambivalence of the first moment, the scene ends in a transcendental, positively driving state of letting go and rest ...
the next part takes us away from the familiar and seemingly peaceful MOMENTS. we jump into the year 2184! 200 years later we are sitting here now, society has turned into an emotional desert like in ORWELLS fiction. a lonely CYBORG sits in the ruins of our once joyful cathedrals and sings about his tearing apart. he can't be without, but also can't be with his own anymore. like a cursed of two worlds he sits stranded in space and time.
the conclusion is made by TMVA, here we get into a very intimate emotional farewell to a lost and unfulfilled love. the calm tempo lets everything flow out that has confused and driven us for years. who or what do we want to become emotionally? are we even capable of letting ourselves fall after decades of searching and disruption? are we already dying? in the end only art and the love of it remains to save us.
ALL LOVE
AMAS_DHE / AMAS_PHI
Volta Cab transports us, once again, into his own-defined post-punk universe, bringing nostalgia from 80s synthwave and 90s beats in his own modern context.Throughout his new EP “Alphabet of Humanity”, Volta Cab creates raw emotions from the first track to the last. There is a before and an after when listening to the subtle arrangement and dynamics of each tune, as the atmosphere that embeds his music can only let our imagination flow.
The EP also features astonishing artwork by Anthony Burrill.
Woo York - supreme electronic music duo make their debut on Watergate Records.
The Ukrainian duo have a watertight reputation for crafting stunning dancefloor compositions, having released music on Life And Death, Soma, Dystopian, Drumcode and Afterlife, the latter home to their
critically acclaimed 2018 album ‘Chasing the Dream’. Their appearances at Watergate have been numerous over the years, making them an obvious choice to join the label family.
Their Watergate Records debut maiden offering is sparkling. The title track begins as a chugging key-laden cut before a stirring folky melody rises to the fore with beautiful intent. With its unique sonic signature,
‘Samum’ will stand out in any set. Woo York show a new side of their outstanding musical talent “For this release we wanted to push boundaries of the melodic techno sound. For Samum we have worked with a bag pipe, one of the oldest instruments to give the track an almost „housy" note.”
The accompanier is ‘Prophet’, an emotional slice of dance music, hopeful and melancholic in equal doses, this is custom made for big dancefloor moments.
Accompanying the package are remixes of ‘Samum’ by fellow Ukrainian producer and live act 8Kays, who turns in a dark and shimmering re-rub, not losing any of the original’s power. Meanwhile Greek artist Echonomist crafts a rich and multi-faceted reinterpretation that fits for the club and home listening alike.
































































































































































