So strong was EPMD’s epochal debut album ‘Strictly Business’ that it spawned three all-time classic singles, providing part of the soundtrack to, arguably, the height of the original Golden Age. When discussing the landmark artists of that era – Public Enemy, Boogie Down Productions, Eric B & Rakim – the duo of Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith are certainly in the conversation. And when it comes to all-time duos, they might be at the head of the table.
The original release of ‘I’m Housin’ came in 1989, and the only previous 7” release was confined to the UK – it now fetches sky-high prices. Hence this reissue couldn’t be more timely, showcasing just how fresh E Double E and PMD sound over even the most rudimentary but feverishly catchy of beats.
That was their genius – trading ‘slow flow’ punchlines over deceptively simple backings – and that’s exactly what you get here. The loop of Aretha Franklin’s indelible 1971 gem ‘Rock Steady’ does all the heavy lifting musically, the only adornment a brief vocal snippet taken from their own ‘It’s My thing’ – EPMD is a world premiere.
At a time when sampling was still in its infancy, and before producers started to pride themselves on obscurity, and on chopping up samples creatively, this was the approach of many a hip-hop song, and rap was none the poorer for it. When you have voices as distinctive and strong as EPMD, less is more.
The heat is rising with our 5th instalment coming from the volt of Meister Bert Ashra veteran from Berlin's 90s underground scene and active still in the city with his Mastering & Sound Design Studio and experimental audio production and studies.
The solo project B. Ashra has existed since 1993. B. Ashra is a live act, DJ, composer, sound designer and mastering engineer. The style is pretty cross-genre and ranges from ambient, experimental, soundscapes and trance techno to deep house and electronic jazz.
For his pure techno and house productions he uses the pseudonym Robert Templa and for the extremely experimental music, trash and gabba he calls himself Hackbert.
Furthermore, B. Ashra is active in several music projects and bands, including: Psychotikum, Cosmic Octave Orchestra, 70db, Morphon and Brain Entertainment Laboratory.
The collection is a double LP With a variety of sounds spacing between Ambient and Minimal - Techno vibes with deep bass-lines and layered melodic progressions written with special care to the evolution of the harmonies such to maintain those hypnotic feeling until the structure comes back together and releases a powerful groove.
A rich Album and a landmark in the growing of the label.
In May 2018, Belgium's Amelie Lens launched LENSKE, the fruit of working on new music and collaborating with her peers. The aim was to create a platform to release her own and friend's music that they use to tear apart dance floors around the globe. Less than two years after, LENSKE is putting out their 10th release and it's evolved into something more than just a label, but a family.
During this relatively short time, the prolific crew formed by Amelie Lens, Farrago, Milo Spykers, AIROD and Ahl Iver have released a collection of contemporary anthems, storming techno cuts and acid weapons. The imprint's catalogue illustrates their exploration for a shade of techno particularly focused on the hi-NRG factor. You can usually catch them at the Exhale showcases worldwide - at the likes of fabric London, Off Sonar in Barcelona and Dour in Belgium- testing their new productions that the crowd highly anticipate for their release.
For this fresh record, each artist contributes a track for a mini VA compilation showcasing the label's sound. Belgian producer Milo Spykers opens up with 'Traversing', a heavy-hitting cut with a ravenous sound design. Hot on the heels of her recent compilation for the fabric presents series, Amelie Lens steps up with her brand new tune 'The Future' featuring energetic synth hooks with her signature vocals. AIROD goes ravey with 'Divine Power' introducing jungle elements, while on the other side, Farrago delivers a catchy vocal-led slammer with 'Step Up'. Ahl Iver, the newest addition to the label, brings the final touch with the intoxicating 'Night Creature'. The future is bright!
Junki Inoue presents the second release on his recently founded label SAISEI from prolific Japanese producer Takuya Sugimoto under his COLOGNe alias. Deep Talk EP features 6 tracks originally released on Japanese CD only label Viola in 1999 and is a snapshot of the elevated warped-techno meets IDM productions Sugimoto is so respected for.
Famous for releasing under many synonyms including COLOGNe, Web and Sammansa it was his EVA EP - the first release on FatCat Records in 1996 that stands out in his recording history. The tracks were in fact licenced from Syzygy Records in Japan, which was one of the main Japanese labels including Viola that homed his work during the 90s era he was most productive in. More recently German label Acido released The Sound There, a mini album of previously unreleased Web material recorded between 1994 and 1995 which was released last year in 2020.
Deep Talk EP presents 6 tracks of intelligent and elevated techno, which show the balanced and intricate approach Sugimoto applies to his output. It has all the warmth and positive essence of the 90s era of electronic music - combining deep and beautiful sounds with headsy and intricate constructions. This is the first time this music has been made available on the vinyl format.
SAISEI is a Japanese word which translates to ‘reproduction’ and ‘to play’ (as in playing records). Japanese culture is widely known for its traditional nature just as much as it is for being forward into the future and this label’s concept does justice to exactly that. Having started digging for records as early as 16 years old, Inoue delved into productions from 1990s Japan to uncover these native gems. SAISEI’s core concept is to recapture and reintroduce unique
pieces of Japanese electronic music onto vinyl, to an audience it never reached before as most of this music was only released in Japan
Parquet Recordings presents their 19th edition of the PARQUET MOST WANTED EP series. Another masterclass collection of Melodic House & Techno productions by Solee, Marc DePulse & Rafael Cerato and Brascon. Enjoy!
VILIFY is a Berlin-based DJ and producer known for her multi-genre approach to bass-fueled club music. With over a decade of performance under her belt, she broadcasts numerous times monthly – known for her “Genre is a Social Construct” mix series, and DJs regularly at top venues in her home city and around the world. Her serene, melodic productions are anchored by titanic sub woofer emanations, and her sound can best be described as ethereal, eclectic, and exquisite. The Wire magazine selected “Road to Eleusis” for inclusion in its Tapper CD compilation series. A video for Interchangable Auras, was shot in Vancouver, BC, by Jeremy Shantz – a collaborator from VILIFY’s home nation of Canada – and is linked below. This 8 track LP, reaches across bass music, jungle, experimental electronic, world, melodic and more. It was a created in a time of uncertainty, aiming to release fear & past Karmic cycles in an effort to open the door to brighter, more authentic being. Connecting to source, rather than self, fostered this culmination of powerful, emotive sound and deep expression.
(gatefold 2LP with spot gloss finishing) Regal's debut album! His staunch productions have garnered support from techno's well-established vanguard, including noted collaborations, projects and remixes with Amelie Lens, Hadone, Nina Kraviz, Ellen Allien, Emmanuel Top and Len Faki. "Remember Why You Started is meant to be a message for everyone, including myself, to look back to your roots -where anything you do is influenced by nothing but passion" -Regal
XX is the debut Ep from Tori Music, the new Label created in 2020 from the german producer Jacob Groening based in Berlin. All recordings and productions for this ep have been made in 2020. Some parts were recorded in Varanasi and some parts have been produced or recorded in Berlin.
From Another Mind celebrates its fifth anniversary with 'Versionen 008’, a mammoth remix package of SHDW & Obscure Shape tracks from Héctor Oaks, Ø Phase, Exium, and more.
Comprising nine remixes of the German producer/DJ outfit, 'Versionen 008' covers four sides of vinyl and features adaptations from a wealth of modern techno talent, rising stars, and scene veterans alike,
with Hadone, MRD, Stigmata, Exium, Héctor Oaks AKA DJKAOS11, Introversion, Ø Phase, and DJ Boss making contributions.
With the influences across the release darting between acid, techno, and rave, 'Versionen 008' is a no holds barred journey into the sounds of dark, cavernous rooms and sweaty basements alike, providing a
keen insight into who SHDW & Obscure Shape are passionate about as artists.
From the fast-paced, dub techno infused MRD version of ‘Der Weg Des Kriegers’, the explosive energy in Exium’s remix of ‘Blick Des Bösen’, to the two versions of ‘Die Augen Des Teufels’ by Stigmata, who effortlessly provides a dose of early 2000’s nostalgia, all aspects of the pair’s musical tastes are covered. Héctor Oaks takes ‘Kein Entkommen’ in an otherworldly direction, painting the track with his
signature voice, while Ø Phase brings his powerful and hypnotic sound to the duos ‘Verlorene Seelen’.
Elsewhere on the release, ‘Die Prophezeiung’ receives a shot of trancey energy from France’s Hadone and Introversion breathes new life into ‘Blisswunden’, developing the track into a melodic dream
amongst metallic percussion. The penultimate ‘Feuersturm’ gets the DJ Boss treatment, as the Slovakian DJ/producer transforms the track into a dynamic late-night roller.
Taking in these variety of moods across the remixes, the compilation sways between different strains of techno, from anthems to DJ tools, covering both modern and vintage to provide a diverse compilation
that will no doubt be warmly welcomed by DJs and listeners alike.
Favouring fiercely high-energy and gritty productions, the duo has used the label as an outlet for their dark, intense sound to the rapturous responses from DJs and dancefloors and 'Versionen 008' sees them celebrate five years of the imprint in typically uncompromising fashion.
Its been more than 2 years since I did an original release on my own label. Its been 9 months since I had an original NOIR release.I wanted some time without releases. Some time to breathe, to think and most importantly time to be creative and to experiment.I have picked 2 productions I felt sounded different to everything else out here. Eruption was already made in the fall 2017 and I have been road-testing it since ADE17 and changed it quite a lot over the 6 months period from when I thought it was finished to what it actually sounds like now. I wanted the track to be brutal like a volcano erupting but at the same time have beautiful and peaceful elements. Hence the breakdown lava sliding into the middle of the track before it all erupts again. I have spent many hours trying to make it sound raw and unpolished. Disruption is build around a super simple sequence loop I played by hand while jamming with new pluck sounds. As the sequence got layered and washed in effects it became a quite haunting loop and that led me to add a boys choir to give that feel bigger impact.This track sounds simpler than Eruption but its actually stacked with layers. Disruption is meant to make you close your eyes, follow the rhythm, the simple sequenced loop and get hypnotized.
When the first Placid Angels album dropped in 1997, John Beltran was already an established force within dance music’s then-emerging scene. He had a knack for both the melodic side as well as intricately designed rhythmic programming. A signature style that went for his early records in the 1990s as much as it does for this new installment of the Placid Angles series. The blissful synths, Aphex Twin-era IDM and loose percussive patterns take you right back to where it all began when genres didn’t mean anything and Beltran was just starting out to experiment with any sound that would elevate your consciousness. The Michigan-born artist since has spanned a career of nearly four decades, remaining relevant all the while, by playing the music he found himself most drawn to express. By working with artists like Detroit veteran Carl Craig, labels such as R&S or more recently his LPs for Delsin or his joint work with Four Tet. Whether it be his more Techno-leaning or New Wave-inspired works, his takes on Ambient, or the more Latin-influenced productions - he has always stayed active and re-invented himself while painting his records with a clearly own palette that is full of beautiful melodies and a timeless sound-design. The album Touch The Earth itself comes as diverse as the artist’s own legacy, ranging from skittish, colorful UKG to proper pulsing sub-basslines as it progresses deeper into intelligent drum programming and further into the melodic ventures of what’s at the core of Beltran’s work.
Christophe Salin delivers „It’s Probably Me EP” on his very
own imprint - a modern interpretation of a classic house EP.
Christophe further deepens the love for details in his
productions, which were evident in his recent remixes for
Sable Blanc & Tour-Maubourg. This EP marks a shift in
sound and style that both surprises and arouses curiosity
whilst still retaining Christophe’s sonic signature. House
music is about love, respect and equality. It brings together
beautiful people from all over the world and creates
unforgettable memories. It’s a shelter - a place where you can
be free. This EP is a love letter to house which Christophe fell
in love with back in 1999, a love that never faded. Iron Curtis
joins the Salin family with his remix contribution of the title
track to which he lent his distinctive sound that we love so
much. Daria Salin once again proves her talent for capturing
moods and sharing it with us through her paintings. Holding
the artwork in your hands whilst listening to the music will let
you experience being caught in the moment; at once being
yourself and finding freedom. We hope to meet you in our
house
Nick Beringer debuts on INFUSE to open the label’s 2021 schedule, offering up his stellar ‘Blue Blood’ EP.
A rising DJ and producer at the heart of Berlin’s minimal house scene, Rubisco boss Nick Beringer has formed a growing reputation as a ‘go-to’ artist for quality productions across the genre in recent years, with his diverse
discography welcoming material via the likes of Raum…Musik, Taverna Tracks, Mulen Records and Berg Audio to name just a few. With a sound fusing classic Detroit house and techno with more modern shades, ranging from electro-tinged elements through to more dubby textures, the German talent kickstarts 2021 with an impressive debut outing on FUSE sister imprint INFUSE as he delivers his four-track ‘Blue Blood’ EP.
Lead cut ‘Concave’ is a perfect example of Beringer’s ability to fuse genres and nuances with ease and fluidity as skipping percussion licks guide skittering sci-fi electronics and sweeping atmospherics throughout an up-front EP opener, whilst vinyl only cut ‘Aint Got Nobody’ delves into deeper realms as squelching basslines merge with icy hats and infectious vocal iterations. The lively title cut ‘Blue Blood’ opens the B-Side in style as warping synths weave amongst aquatic melodies and deep sub-bass, before closing out proceedings via the dynamic, off-kilter tones of final production ‘Second Hand Emotion’.
We stumbled onto Al Muntzie’s under the radar soul beauty ‘Die Happy’ after conducting an interview with Joe Quarterman for a feature on our website.
It got us salivating about the prospect of further productions, which Joe had recorded, but had perhaps been overlooked. ‘Die Happy’ was originally released in 1976 and was the only release on S.B. Moon Records. The record has a crossover vibe as it sits beautifully between modern soul, funk, and proto-disco.
Initial research didn’t shed much light onto the background of the song. The trail was sparse, other than the record appearing on the sales list of rare-soul collectors and record dealers. So we decided to go back to the source and find out about the record directly from Joe himself.
“I met Al Muntzie through my bass guitar player, Elliot Adams. Elliot informed me that Al was looking for a song that was funky and suitable for a group. At that time, 1976 - 79, I had written the words and melody to ‘Die Happy” and Elliot cranked out a mean bass part that gave the song life. He should be credited as co-writer for his outstanding bass part. At this time my band, FreeSoul, had dis-banded and worked as sideman musicians.
Elliot and I made a demo of the song on a cassette and we let Al Muntzie hear it: he liked it. We set a recording date at the Omega Recording Studio in northern Virginia. We used a combination of two bands; FreeSoul and Experience Unlimited (EU). Al sang lead vocal and me and the Embracebles did the background vocals. Al was very cooperative and did not say much during the session. He followed my direction and got the job done.
The session took all day into the late evening hours where we mixed and mastered the tune to perfection. We had a good time creating this work of art.” We are forever thankful to Joe for giving us the opportunity to present this fantastic production by Al, Elliot, and Joe, and to give it the new lease of life, which it rightfully deserves. Produced by the legendary Joe Quarterman
Named "best kept secret of Canadian funk" by the Quebecois newspaper La Presse, The Brooks are a band of accomplished musicians, well-known in the soul/funk scene across the Atlantic. Expert instrumentalists led by Alexandre Lapointe create a dazzling combo with frontman Alan Prater— an incredibly energetic showman who has worked alongside some of the biggest names in the music industry. This passionate and experienced band fan the sacred fire every time they perform! Thanks to a solid realization, their musical message comes across beautifully. The Brooks go beyond mere interpretation and style exercises: they are a powerful groove machine and a driving force in their sector. 50 years of African American music are condensed in the band's aesthetic. In their live shows and in their records, you can hear James Brown's meticulousness, D'Angelo's delightfulness, Fela Kuti's radiance, Herbie Hancock's intergenerational openness, and J. Dilla's innovative spirit. These heroes of music didn't let rules and trends dictate their messages, and neither do The Brooks. Just like these history makers, they built their reputation with sweat and rigor, outside of conventional channels. The Brooks are incredibly hard workers united in a project where pleasure and complete artistic freedom are the only key words. After 8 years of existence, with an EP and two albums, they have already won many awards and nominations (GAMIQ, Independent Music Awards, ADISQ...) and built a solid reputation in the Quebec indie world.
Who are The Brooks? First, there's the icon, Alan Prater! This Florida-born musician can boast that he shared the stage with the Jacksons! Thanks to his many trips and experiences, he became a key member of Montreal jazz. He is the band's biggest asset: if The Brooks were a sports team, Alan Prater would be captain. Then, at the drums: Maxime Bellavance, one half of the Beat Market duo, whose "dancy and retro futurist" groove can be heard in several major and underground projects in Canada. Philippe Look aces guitar and vocals. His experience as a session musician working with famous bands for 20 years allowed him to take part in different projects: rock, downtempo, trip hop, electro… As one of the founding members of The Brooks, he also wrote many of the band's songs. Keyboardist Daniel Thouin is an integral part of the Montreal jazz scene. He is both an accomplished acoustic piano player and synthesizer player, well versed in writing as well as in improvising, in organic sounds as well as in the latest technologies. Thouin possesses a double vision, which allows him to both exalt and lead productions. Composer Sébastien Grenier wows us with his saxophone. Thanks to his theoretical knowledge and his 20 years of experience, acquired through continuous training all around the world, he is a true guiding force. French trumpetist Hichem Khalfa begun learning the instrument at 7 years old. He attended a musical conservatory before going to the Haute École de Musique and finally pursuing his studies at McGill University. He won prizes at Rimouski International Jazz Festival and received the François Marcaurelle prize at Montreal Off Festival. His successful jazz projects allowed him to work with famous musicians like Blitz the Ambassador, Nomadic Massive, Rhonda Ross and Kalmunity. Philippe Beaudin can be considered an apostle of Afro-Latin percussions, which he teaches and practices with great passion. Thanks to his participation in several projects, you can discover his talent both on stage and onscreen. The Brooks' philosophy is based on art in its rawest form, on perfectionism in musical practice. The choices they make and the directions they take are motivated mostly by instinctive feelings. This is how The Brooks recently crossed the path of Underdog Records during a trip in France. It was love at first sight for the two groups who share a passion for soul. Their chemistry allows them to be completely free in their creative process and natural as ever in their conception-creation-communication approach.
Fresh from the release of André Hommen’s More Than This album earlier this year, October will see the German talent follow up with the first of two special remix packages. Set for release on his own imprint, These Eyes, More Than This Remixes Pt. 1 includes stellar offerings from two Kompakt regulars: Robag Wruhme and Jonathan Kaspar.
Beginning with the punchy sounds of Robag Wruhme ’s remix, hard-hitting drum combos are swiftly complemented by reverberating vocals, as up-tempo hats create rhythm to forge a no-nonsense dancefloor cut. Jonathan Kaspar ’s remix rounds things off gently, with a softly-building bassline that ebbs and flows alongside whispering hats and warm, soothing pads.
André Hommen ’s international following should come as no surprise given his already storied career. As label head of These Eyes, the imprint has welcomed standout releases from the likes of Ane Brun and Marc Romboy previously. Another staple of Germany's ever-flourishing music scene, Robag Wruhme ’s productions have found a welcome home on labels as acclaimed as Koze’s Pampa Records, Kompakt and Mute to name a few, whilst fellow prolific-producer Jonathan Kaspar has released two EP’s on These Eyes, then also Objektivity and Acid Pauli’s Ouië in an already-storied career.
Sam Interface (formerly known as SNØW) returns to the seminal R&S Records following the success of last year’s R&S Presents: More Time Records Vol 1, which was a 4 track compilation featuring Ahadadream, Bala Bala Boyz, Bryte & SNØW.
He is the co-founder of London’s More Time Records, on which he has released much of his own music as SNØW (including collaborations with Zed Bias, Fox, Dread MC & more) and can also be found monthly on Rinse FM and Reprezent Radio playing a range of percussive genres including UK Funky, GQOM, Kuduro, Afrobeats and more.
The name change takes him closer to his first alias Interface, under which he had DnB hits with the likes of DJ Die and more, he explains: “When i first released music back in my early DnB days I used the alias “Interface” and so many people still call me Sam Interface - it feels like the most natural name for me.”
The lead track “Underground” (which samples an announcement from the tube) references a range of London-centric genres, combining polyrhythmic percussion with an extremely upfront bass sound which draws influence from and exxagerates recent drill productions.
“Finally”, a collaboration with an old friend & prolific DnB producer Break follows, bringing frantic motion to the release. The third track “Crud” utilises Sam’s signature gully bass production, flooding the speakers with low end on the drop. The EP wraps up with “Pink Dolphins” - a euphoric dancefloor moment which channels the energy and emotion of jungle, drawing on some of Sam’s earliest rave influences.
The deep melodic house & techno masterpiece collection by Parquet
Recordings is going into the sixteenth round! "Parquet Most Wanted Vol. 16", featuring worldwide supported & roadtested productions by SOLEE, MONASTETIQ feat. HAPTIC, DECIDIOUS, YANNEK MAUNZ, BRASCON and JOHANSON.
These tracks are already played by A-List DJs like Tale of Us, Solomun, Pig & Dan, Fideles, Guy Mantzur, Undercatt, Petar Dundov, Aether, Nick Warren, Nicone and many more!
In these turbulent times we have managed to release six pieces of wax to date.This is something to be proud of, and of course we are.
For this sixth slice of plastic we have Kalter Ende on board and it’s a real pleasure. From his bunker hidden somewhere in the middle of the peninsula, he runs his label Concerns Music and his mastering studio Reborn.
On the production side he has lately gone into modular, and you can clearly feel the machines in his productions and in his amazing live act.
For this release he has cooked up five cuts of modern and complex techno, carefully crafted, nothing easy or predictable. Mujo, the opening track, is a clear example.
Jōshahissui follows slow paced grooves, crispy analogue percussion, linear hypnotic sequences and a wise and dynamic arrangement. You can feel the circuits singing in this one.
Sengoku introduces distortion and harshness, a diffused kick drum and processed synth lines running together from the beginning until flanged sequences come on top, a weird marriage of overdrive and deepness.
Closing the release, Senran explores the profound side of techno, clear synthetic drums, liquid synths, elastic bleeps, again on a complex and wise arrangement.
As digital bonus we include the track Ran, again a precise electronic workout made of continuous synth lines and sharp rhythms.
Five timeless pieces of danceable electronic music, away from trends, far from the easiness, done by professionals for professionals. Touchable, collectable and physical as every piece of vinyl is.
Rocko Garoni knows what a techno dance floor wants. He’s learned it through countless hours spent on the floor himself as a punter, and through DJing at some of the best clubs and festivals in his hometown Berlin and all over the world. He knows exactly the type of productions that thrill crowds, and he brings this wealth of knowledge and experience to his third EP for Second State, Ammoniak.
The title and first track ‘Ammoniak’ drags you straight into the zone; a pounding, take no prisoners cut laced with stormy synths creating a vague sense of paranoia. ‘Gece‘ cranks the energy up with trancey, bouncing synths and a cool, clipped female vocal. Instantly, you’re pulled into the very sort of club that Garoni knows so well. ‘No Border‘ is the kind of expansive track that seems destined for huge warehouses or vast festival dancefloors. There’s an insistent, brooding bassline, robotic repeated vocals and a mid-track shift in tone that will send the crowd to a heightened state of reverie. The blend of post-punk vocals and eerie beats on ‘It’s All Yours‘, a track featuring Cook Strummer on the vocals, is at once highly unusual and completely compelling. It’s the track to play when the crowd are losing themselves in the best possible way. Closing the EP is ‘Helio‘, another completely different track that showcases the extent of Garoni’s range. Faint, echoed chanting lends the track an almost holy atmosphere. Combined with tunnelling synths and spindly percussion FX, the effect is euphoric, acting as a delicious palate cleanser between heavier tracks.
Put simply, Ammoniak is another first-class EP from a dynamic act who’s fast becoming a Second State star.
Parquet Recordings is proud to present their 14th edition of the PARQUET MOST WANTED EP series. Another masterclass collection of Melodic House & Techno productions by Solee, Oliver Winters, Alyne and Rinzen & Evan Casey. Enjoy!
Techno's most influential label hits 200 releases with two powerful Amelie Lens interpretations of an Adam Beyer classic.
Over the course of its lifespan, Drumcode's vision has remained resolute, crafting techno that's both functional and forward-thinking. It's a philosophy that extends to the stable of artists who release on the label and play its showcases, with Adam Beyer's eyes and ears always focused on the future.
One artist in his viewpoint in recent years is Amelie Lens. Supporting her early productions on Lyase and Second State, a kinship naturally developed between the two artists, with Beyer asking her to contribute to 2017's A-Sides Vol.6 compilation.
Her blistering acid cut 'In Silence' blew the collective techno world out of the water.
Eighteen months on and now a regular on Drumcode showcase line-ups, Beyer has sought the Lenske Records boss to apply her energetic take on techno and remix 'Teach Me', his deep, Detroit-influenced cut from 2014.
The Main Mix highlighted the Swede's Drumcode Halloween set in London and is an exhilarating peak-team weapon driven by a grinding bassline that undulates with intensity, while Lens has made smart work of the vocal, teasing out the sample to harmonic perfection.
The Acid Mix sees the Belgian deliver a stripped back 303-led affair, utilising the looped vocal to build energy in the first half of the track, before rapid-fire percussion and squelchy stabs take control and push the atmosphere into darker and more ominous realms
Shot At Dawn is a scintillating return for a band who have been collectively quiet (but individually busy) for a few years, and (once again) sounds like the music of tomorrow. Lyricist Leon Mayes wills the real revolution to come, Morris's uneasy keys and driving, bittersweet production embodies the UK's collective anxiety/apathy coupled with an impending sense of doom, as we all obediently troop off the cliff like lemmings, while vocalist Michelle Manetti's melancholy delivery is the perfect foil both, recalling Tracey Thorn at her best.
It's a genuine wake-up call for the dance floor that's dropping well with club DJs but clearly has the potential to shine fully on radio. A2 track Warm Your Love is an equally forward-facing slice of sci-fi dance music sonically and already turbo-charging the dance floor with its futuristic feel.
The remixes come from Edinburgh/London duo Leonidas & Hobbes and are the first productions they've released since 2017's summer anthem and Release Of The Year, Web Of Intrigue (from their Rags of Time EP), as voted by some 400+ DJs on Bill Brewster's DJ History podcast back in January. Their Electro mixes doff a cap to Vince Clarke (Depeche Mode, Yazoo) and Daft Punk/Thomas Bangalter, with some Compass Point era Grace Jones/Sly & Robbie thrown in for good measure on the electro dub, while the Deep House variations are more Pepe Braddock's Deep Burnt meets Frankie Knuckles/Jamie Principle's Your Love and Orbital...
Here we go with the twelfth edition of "Parquet Most Wanted", featuring another 4 top-notch productions by SOLEE, SEVERAL DEFINITIONS, ALYNE and THE DUALZ! Already huge DJ support by John Digweed (Bedrock), Victor Ruiz (Suara), Musumeci (Kompakt), Hernan Cattaneo (Sudbeat), DJ Hell (Gigolo), Marcus Worgull (Innervisions), Robert Babicz, Petar Dundov (Systematic), Bebetta (Monaberry), Dirty Doering (Katermukke), Kollektiv Turmstrasse (Diynamic), Mira (Katermukke) and many more. Don´t miss this master class collection of deep melodic House & Techno sound!
The Mutant Frequencies EP is the first transmission from Music That Moves - Shinedoe's new label focussing entirely on her own productions. If this release is anything to go by, the label is set to make its mark just as her other label Intacto has done since 2004.
Early support from Jeff Mills, Jerome Sydenham, DVS1, Ben Klock, and more. Shinedoe launches her new Music That Moves label with 'Mutant Frequencies'. The title track is a gripping, arpeggiated techno roller for the peak time slot
The title track is a gripping, arpeggiated techno roller for the peak time slot - DJ Mag
I'm definitely feeling this, all 3 tracks are doing it for me - Big time!!! DJ Rolando
Track 1 for me for sure! DVS1
Shinedoe has built a stellar reputation in the scene for her unmissable DJ sets and stand-out productions, which have made her one of the most respected names in techno. Kicking off this release, the title track Mutant Frequencies sets out the agenda - a deep driving baseline intertwined with sparking, modulated synth lines and crisp, urgent percussion. The result is a tough techno bomb, but containing Shinedoe's signature subtleties. Over on the flip, the Robert Hood referencing M-Plant is an acid- tinged, bouncy groover - the baseline writhes and wriggles throughout the track while the pulsating kick and fizzing percussion propel the track ever higher, punctuated by an exquisite break. Last but not least, Triplex is a deeply atmospheric cut, slowly building out of a hypnotic synth hook and dark, brooding pads - Shinedoe's masterly production keeps the track full of tension throughout.
Music That Moves (MTM) Founded in 2018, Music That Moves is the latest venture by Amsterdam-based techno maven Shinedoe. Having been jointly responsible for the long running and hugely influential Intacto label with partner in crime 2000 and One, Chinedum Nwosu's new label is a vehicle for her own special musical vision. Focussing entirely on Shinedoe productions, Music That Moves is the home for precision techno with soul - literally music that will move you in every sense.
Dekmantel regular Matrixxman returns with the third, and final instalment in the Sector series, Part III: Polyphony. In this triptych, the producer from San Fransisco sets out to highlight the key components behind the sounds and style of techno, exploring the range within the confines of a particular limitation. Following Parts I and II, which looked at Rhythm, and Acid, Charles McCloud Duff charters the realm of Polyphony with four, meticulously produced techno tracks, expanding his repertoire of cult, dancefloor music.Polyphony refers to the simultaneous combining of many notes in a musical sequence. In electronic music, this specifically refers to the role of the synthesiser - such as the Minimoog, ARP Odyssey, which can produce different pitches simultaneously. Polyphony has been an integral characteristic of the genre's sound for over a quarter of a century, and can be heard in many key records, living a the sonic forefront of these four tracks. 'Sector Series: III Polyphony' provides an exercise in melody and polyphony. Throughout the EP, swaggering rhythms are inter-washed with a sea of multi-melodious, reverberated notation. 'Initiation' resonates with the grandiosity, and harsh claustrophobia of early Underground Resistance. 'Access Granted', drives hard with pulsing effects, with a dystopic, rhythmic cacophony of euphony. 'Desert Planet' plays around with a differing tempo, imagining a more fantastical vision of music, echoing back to earlier Plastikman productions, using a vast sonic spectrum to conjure up a colour palette of alien imagery. 'Horizon' rounds things off; a track that builds on minimalism with a progressive composition, allowing the polyphonics to drive the track, harnessing the adept production qualities that Matrixxman has come to be recognised for.
Drumcode continues its commitment to releasing the scene's most cutting-edge techno. With releases this year already from Adam Beyer, Pig&Dan, Alan Fitzpatrick, Dense & Pika and Julian Jeweil, this July see's the return of Enrico Sangiuliano with 'Astral Projection'.
After his remix of Moby's of 'Why Does My Heart Feel So Bad' back in November last year, Enrico sought creative inspiration from his travels, transcending that into his productions and long studio sessions during the winter months. The result brings a mind and body melting release from the Italian producer.
The title track 'Astral Projection' is a captivating, big room techno masterpiece. Deep reverberations punch alongside a sinisterly crisp percussive drive. Launching into a groove laden synth modulation of low end textures, it breaks down into an ethereal amalgamation of pads and synths before the vocal launches, taking this track to another level.
'Blooming Era' has destructive dancefloor intent. There is no holding back with the low end synth modulation which Enrico has mastered to perfection. A tightly woven percussive flare moulds flawlessly with the rolling oscillations of the beast of this track.
If you have seen label head honcho Adam Beyer playing anywhere on the globe in the last 5 months, this has been a peak time favourite. Road-tested to the max, and with much success.
Founded by friends and fellow producers Braunbeck and Hazel, Sol Eterno will serve as an outlet for their own productions, but also for companioned artists sharing similar tastes and aesthetics.
For the eights Edition of the fancied "Parquet Most Wanted" EP we have another 4 melodic House & Techno Masterpieces, dancefloor-proved and worldwide supported by international tastemakers! Enjoy upper-class productions by Township Rebellion, Ryan Davis, Solee, Alyne and Ubbah & Lunar Plane! 100% Must-Have!
Now in its second decade, with a steady stream of the most forward thinking and cutting edge techno productions, Drumcode has one of the biggest selections of releases from industry heavy hitters, whilst not forgetting its future by bringing the newest talented producers into the limelight, where Layton Giordani is now a name firmly within that line up.
The young New York based producer first had recognition back in 2014, and his debut release came via Drumcode with his track "Rivington" on the A-Sides Vol5 compilation in 2016.
Full force into 2017, Drumcode has announced the release of Layton's debut album with "Where It Begins" Consisting of 12 original tracks, the album packs a punch when it comes to no-nonsense techno. Successfully weaving relentless drums and catchy vocal hooks into a selection of thick, brooding, atmospheric tracks.
Now in its second decade, with a steady stream of the most forward thinking and cutting edge techno productions, Drumcode has one of the biggest selections of releases from industry heavy hitters, whilst not forgetting its future by bringing the newest talented producers into the limelight, where Layton Giordani is now a name firmly within that line up.
The young New York based producer first had recognition back in 2014, and his debut release came via Drumcode with his track "Rivington" on the A-Sides Vol5 compilation in 2016.
Full force into 2017, Drumcode has announced the release of Layton's debut album with "Where It Begins" Consisting of 12 original tracks, the album packs a punch when it comes to no-nonsense techno. Successfully weaving relentless drums and catchy vocal hooks into a selection of thick, brooding, atmospheric tracks.
Rhythm Section look to Poland once more for two of the most uplifting tracks of the year. Earth Trax (known for his productions as The Phantom & one half of Ptaki) and newcomer Newborn Junior pull two absolute classics out of the bag here that do what they say on the tin. Both Sax Track and Flute Track centre around ecstatic MIDI melodies on (you guessed it) Saxophone and Flute! Falling somewhere between the late night deep house excursions of Ron Trent (circa Morning Factory era) and more recent retro-leaning breakbeat driven output from the Pender Street Steppers et al, the Sax & Flute EP is a masterclass in sustain-release. Euphoria Guaranteed - or your money back!
For the fifth Edition of the popular "Parquet Most Wanted" EP we have another 4 masterly melodic & atmospheric Productions, dancefloor-proved and worldwide supported by international tastemakers!
This time on board only heavyweights of the current melodic house & techno scene: D-Nox & Beckers, Oliver Schories, Solee and Boss Axis! 100% Must-Have!
The masterclass collection of deep melodic sound is going into the fourth round! "Parquet Most Wanted Vol. 4", featuring worldwide supported & impressive productions by SOLEE, SOUL BUTTON & ANDREA ARCANGELI, MIDAS 104 & OLIVER LIEB and JOS & ELI. These tracks are already played by A-List DJs like Solomun (Diynamic), Richie Hawtin (Minus), Kollektiv Turmstrasse, Edu Imbernon, Guy J (Lost & Found), Moonbootica, Eelke Kleijn, Hernan Cattaneo (Sudbeat), Nick Warren, Oliver Schories (SOSO Hamburg) and many more! 100% must-have for every melodic House & Techno lover!
That's with pleasure that Rutilance signs Janeret , a close friend for the ninth release . 4 productions in the deepness, a kind of house that Janeret likes particularly. The B2 will probably bring you in the atmosphere.
Here we go with the third edition of "Parquet Most Wanted", featuring another 4 top-notch productions by SOLEE, BOSS AXIS & MICROTRAUMA, UNIQUE REPEAT and MASHK & WHOMI! Already huge DJ support by Dirty Doering (Katermukke), Uner (Cadenza / Diynamic), Oliver Schories (SOSO / Der Turnbeutel), Aka Aka (Burlesque Musique), Reboot (Cocoon), Sascha Braemer (WhatIPlay / Dantze), Eelke Kleijn (Spinnin / Toolroom) and many more. Don´t miss this master class collection of deep melodic sound!
One of the world's most in demand DJs and producers, Noir has been responsible for some of the most poignant - as well as explosive moments in clubland's recent history. Arguably best known for his huge dancefloor bomb 'Around', Noir now drops his debut studio album, a project that has been nearly half a decade in the making.'Around', a sexy, synthesizer-tinted groove featuring vocalist Hayze dominated dancefloors across the world for close to two years, making Noir a household name across clubland. And it's still as popular as ever - the Solomon Vox remix of 'Around' has amassed more than 12 million views on YouTube.
As well as 'Around', Noir includes further club hits 'Around feat. Hayze', 'My Fault feat. HRRSN' and current single 'Black feat. Caitlin', evidencing Noir's desire to work with a variety of vocalists to create something far 7 weightier than simply a collection of club tracks. Noir is about telling stories, boating 12 completely unique productions that chart the artist's evolution over the course of his expansive career. With many of its cuts moving away from the strict four-to-the-floor parameters of house music production, the horizons of Noir stretch way beyond the dancefloor. Taking cues from a range of artists from Depeche Mode to Kraftwerk, and Massive Attack to Timbaland - all of whom have heavily influenced Noir's aesthetic - Noir is an emotionally charged and
utterly engrossing body of work. Says Noir of working on the album: 'The album has been in the making since I started working on 'Around' back in 2010, so for me it's a body of work that spans nearly 5 years, with changes to productions, melodies and moods before I was happy with the final tracks. 'What you hear on the album is the culmination of all the music and influences I grew up and have lived with over the years: it is absolutely my identity and honestly represents my musical passions. Unlike many 'dance' albums that are little more than a collection of thrown-together club tracks, Noir combines tirelessly creative songwriting with multi-faceted production that reveals fresh delights with every listen: a timeless release from a truly singular artist.
On Paranoia, Oliver Huntemann's prowess and versatility as a producer is evident, from the space age minimalism of 'Magnet', through to more melodic, upbeat productions such as 'The End', in which warm sounds resonate through the listener.
Another week and another debut for German label Cellaa Music as they welcome Giuseppe Cennamo to the family. Since his first productions dropped in 2009, the Italien born has gone on to grace labels including Desolat, Minisketch, Leftroom, Moniqué Speciale and of course his own imprint Carillon. Giuseppes's "Butterflies In Your Stomach" ep sees the label continue its stunning run of quality releases.
The Title Track "Butterflies In Your Stomachl" is an earthy house track with a beautifully soulful and mellow vibe.
"The Third Ear" features an irresistible tech house groove and the bassline drops on cue pulling the listener deep into it.
With "Ghostly Lovers" Giuseppe returns with a much deeper Tune and delve into darker territory.
Giuseppe Cennamo in der Familie willkommen heißen. Seit seiner ersten Produktion im Jahr 2009 hat der in Italien geborende auf Label wie Desolat, Minisketch, Leftroom, Moniqué Speciale und natürlich auch auf seinem eigenen Label Carillon releaset. Mit Giuseppe´s "Butterflies In Your Stomach" EP zeigt das Label weiterhin seine atemberaubende Sicht bei der Qualität ihrer Releases.
Der Titel Track "Butterflies In Your Stomach" ist ein sehr trockener House-Track mit einer wunderschön, gefühlvollen und sanften Atmosphäre.
"The Third Ear" bietet einen unwidersthelichen Tech-House Groove und die auf der 1 einsetzende Bassline zieht den Zuhörer tief in den Track hinein.
Mit "Ghostly Lovers" kehrt Giuseppe mit einem viel deeperen Tune zurück und taucht ein in dunkleres Territorium.
