quête:mini

When you’re running a label, a demo occasionally comes across your desk that makes you reconsider everything you thought your label was all about. For Balmat, such was the case with this stunning album from Stephen Vitiello, Brendan Canty, and Hahn Rowe. It sounds like nothing we’ve released so far—and that very otherness opened up a whole new world of possibilities for us.

Fans of ambient, experimental electronic music, and sound art will be familiar with Vitiello, a New York native, long based in Virginia, who has collaborated with a cross-generational list of greats: Taylor Deupree, Steve Roden, Lawrence English, Tetsu Inoue, Nam June Paik, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Pauline Oliveros, and many more. On labels like 12k, Room40, and Sub Rosa, he has explored a wide range of minimalism, microsound, lowercase, ambient, improv, and other styles. But this album is something different. It may begin in ambient-adjacent territory, but it quickly veers off, and it just keeps zigzagging, taking on elements of krautrock, post-punk, dub, and the groove-heavy interplay of groups like Natural Information Society and 75 Dollar Bill.

This stylistic turn is thanks in large part to Vitiello’s choice of collaborators. “We’re coming from three different schools,” Vitiello says: “sound art, art rock, and punk rock.”

Active since the early 1980s, Rowe—a violinist, guitarist, and producer/engineer—has played with, or manned the boards for, a frankly jaw-dropping list of musicians: Herbie Hancock, Gil Scott-Heron, the Last Poets, Roy Ayers, John Zorn, Glenn Branca, Swans, Live Skull, Brian Eno, David Byrne, Anohni, R.E.M., Yoko Ono, and many more. But he might be most closely associated with Hugo Largo, a one-of-a-kind New York quartet—two basses, vocals, and Rowe’s violin—that in the late 1980s helped lay the groundwork for what would eventually become known as post-rock.

Canty, of course, is the legendary drummer of Fugazi, the visionary DC post-hardcore group, as well as Rites of Spring before them, and, currently, the Messthetics, a Dischord-signed instrumental trio with guitarist Anthony Pirog and Fugazi bassist Joe Lally.

Vitiello’s trio first collaborated on First, a 17-minute piece released on the Longform Editions label in 2023. Second picks up where the freeform drift of First left off, channeling the trio’s exploratory energies into more intentionally structured tracks and—in a real first for Balmat—some almost shockingly muscular grooves. “Sometimes my projects are more conceptually driven,” Vitiello says, “but I think this was more musically geared. I just wanted to open up the references and bring in an incredible drummer, bring in some melodies, and I’m sort of the center.” But his collaborators, he stresses, are “vastly creative in making anything I might suggest better.”

Like its predecessor, Second took shape in phases, shifting between improvisation and collage. Vitiello laid down the skeleton of the music at home, sketching out initial ideas on Rhodes keyboard and acoustic and electric guitar; he then fed the parts through samplers and his modular system, recording 10- or 20-minute jams. Once he had edited them into more structured forms, he hit the studio with Canty, who added not just drums but also bass and piano; finally, Vitiello took the results of those sessions to Rowe, who played violin, viola, electric bass, and 12-string acoustic and bowed electric guitar, and assisted in some of the final structuring and mixdown.

A few more surprises along the way: Reanimator’s Don Godwin, the studio engineer where Vitiello recorded with Canty, contributed what he calls “resonant dustpan”; and none other than Animal Collective’s Geologist, who just happened to be in the studio that day, sits in on hurdy gurdy on “Mrphgtrs1,” the album’s gorgeous, stunningly atmospheric drone closer. “I love these chance encounters,” Vitiello says. “Somebody I admire, a group I admire—that was an unexpected gift.”

An unexpected gift is a great way of describing Second as a whole: three veteran musicians venturing outside their usual zones and finding a new collaborative language together. The results can’t be neatly slotted into any given genre; they belong not to any given category, but to the spirit of conversation itself.

Unsighted is the Brooklyn based project of Nicolás Sierra ,and Mutante returns with a new sonic manifesto: an EP that channels the rough energy of EBM, the analog sensibility of Minimal Synth and the hypnotic pulse of New Beat.

This EP is a distorted time capsule, where corrosive basslines, martial rhythms and analog synths coexist in constant tension. It is a statement without nostalgia but with retro DNA, designed for sweaty dancefloors, smoky basements and minds that vibrate on the fringes of the mainstream.

Foreboding EP is a collection of tracks that don't ask for permission, they hit you straight on, like a post-industrial alarm on eternal loop.

Uncover our 5th release.

This new VA brings together four artists who explore the expressive potential of sound design and instrumentation. From Olivier Romero’s powerful wavey rhytms to Luise’s sequences and minimal percussion, each track unfolds with meticulous attention to detail. Maik Yells adds depth through layered pads and haunting harmonies, while OneKnock fuses rhythms and deep substructures into a hypnotic journey. This release is a deep dive into refined electronic craftsmanship essential for those who appreciate sound as texture and storytelling.

An artist whose reputation has long been forged by his engagement and musical exchange with local scenes and cultures from across the world. Quantic"s vast discography of electronic releases spans two decades, ranging from focused solo productions and intimate collaborations to expansive ensemble projects. Now, the multi-instrumentalist, DJ, composer and producer Will Holland delivers his DJ-Kicks compilation, which fittingly radiates friends and family energy. The mix bursts with unreleased exclusives and places the art of curation at its core, giving the listeners space to go and dig more of the songs and sonics which resonate the most. Will Holland includes a glistening breadth of new material, including new music from Quantic alongside another of his aliases Sobredosis, creating a mix teeming with vitality.

3volution in the recent past, Divide is like a bridge between old generations and new ones. Its sounds range from Sci-Fi techno to 90's techno, characterized by minimal sequences, heavy drum patterns, and an accurate sound design.
Third and last chapter for the VA vinyl trilogy on R3volution Records called

This edition includes exclusive tracks by the following artists:

- UVALL, from Tbilisi, Georgia. Born there and at the age of 23, he is no longer at the beginning of his musical journey and the refinement of his taste and style. Always on the cutting edge, he has been impressing with productions and releases on labels such as Semantica, WSNWG with Rohad, Float Records, Hayes, MALoR, and many many more. Already well known in our roster thanks to a previous collaboration for a remix, the talented young music producer delivers deep, muscular rhythms in his portfolio and translates this energy into a raw, dancefloor oriented session.

- Operator, there is no need to spend many words to describe one of the most talented and innovative British artists on the scene for a long time, recently appearing on

- Divide co-owner of EvodMusic and South Berlin Studio, with recent appearances on all the top labels on the planet (WarmUp, Semantica, MindTrip, Tremsix, Hayes, to name a few), and several collaborations and remixes for

- PTTRNRCRRNT aka Dave Brody from Antwerpen - Belgium. Characterized by efficiently percussion tunnelling through juggled textures, PTTRNRCRRNT's technical know-how and conceptual intentions can be masked by the efficiency and singularity of his music. Taking techno's tendency to constantly reinvent itself as a priority and researches between experimentalism and futurism. He is one of the artists with the most collaborations within our roster (some of his remixes are memorable), he alternates his productions on our label with frequent appearances on highly referenced labels in the scene, such as Soma, Materia and Devotion among others.

In a blizzard of breaks and surrounded by towering slabs of icy atmospherics, Quelza comes spinning into the Dekmantel UFO orbit with an EP of grandiose proportions.

Anyone who caught Quelza at Dekmantel Ten last summer will be well aware of the breakthrough producer's affinity for evocative soundscapes — amongst his keen instinct for dancefloor propulsion its his richly rendered atmospheres that have made him such a vital new talent in the industry and club scene. The curious, extraterrestrial quality to his sound is the perfect fit for the resurgent UFO series, and Quelza has more than risen to the occasion with four tracks that take in the widest spectrum of his sound to date.

The title track 'Pensa Poetico' is a dramatic, 11-minute epic that moves beyond dancefloor rigidity into a fractured zone where rhythms splinter and shudder around immersive dub chords pulses and IDM infused rhythms . There might be the anchor of an insistent, staggered kick drum, but it's a simple tool to allow the freedom of movement for intricate layers of steel, glass, ice and dust before the second half erupts in a powerful display of breakbeat science. It's the most adventurous expression from Quelza to date — a track he credits with unblocking his creative process on the path towards a more honest expression within his production.

This spirit of adventure maintains throughout the EP, balancing cathartic compositional shifts with hyper-detailed scene-building and energy shifts that push and pull with your expectations. Quelza's well-established affinity for dancefloor physicality holds true as he twists and turns through these constantly surprising, nail-biting arrangements. Even when everything seems to fall apart, he'll sense the perfect moment to return to a pinpoint groove. Toying with minimal, modernist 2-step and complex organic percussion as well as choppy breaks, this is the sound of Quelza breaking out into a new phase where anything feels possible and his production vocabulary allows him to land audacious moves with mind-blowing finesse.

2025 Repress

Jim Coles once again turns the tide towards a new horizon and travels further into the echo chamber. Leading on from the much-lauded ‘Secret Location’ mini-album with Seekersinternational, one-offs such as ‘Open Palms dub’ (Dub Stuy) and other teasings, ‘Acid Dub Studies’ is the fully-fledged result of the merging of the calligraphic expression of the 303 Acid bassline with the stern sway of Dub Reggae and the hazier edges of Dub Techno and Ambient music.

For those who have been paying close attention, this project will come as a welcome return to the vulnerability and playfulness of early Om Unit records such as his sub-radar single from 2010 ‘Lightgrids/Lavender’ (All City Records) or the unearthed chugging ambience of ‘Friend of Day’ (Idle Hands) and indeed in some sense draws from similar wellsprings as moments on 2013’s Bass classic ‘Threads’.

Whilst being perhaps an ‘interim project’ this is still a vital and important expression of exploration and playfulness. A study in the true sense and borne out of a subtle but pervasive frustration with the rigidity found in musical words he has up to now been cohabiting, Acid Dub Studies comes from the pressing need to break with perceived expectation and to explore an honest and natural space away from the genre labels and tags that had been often lazily applied to his sizeable catalogue of music.

With no desire to reinvent the wheel, rather to paint pictures in an honest framework, the LP was crafted using a medley of classic analogue mixing techniques inspired as much by the adventurous dubbing of Adrian Sherwood as by the inward-delving haze of Scott Monteith’s Deadbeat project. Created during a period of lonely introspective walks through his home town of Bristol, the cover art is a photograph of some of the iron kerbstones that are found almost exclusively in the characterful and hardy city which were installed in the late 1800’s to protect pavements from cart wheels. Something about the permanence of those iron slabs and cobblestones inspired a sense of comfort and determination.

Acid Dub Studies is due for release as yet another self-released label-free project leading on from recent EP titles ‘Violet’ and ‘Submerged’ both of which hinted at some of the shapes found in this full length album.

Once again Jim has shown a rare convincing adaptability that few electronic artists can embody. Another step on the journey of personal and creative curiosity that fans are sure to appreciate.

Repress! with New Artwork

FELT’s sixth volume extracts another fascinating mineral from Guy Brewer’s Carrier alias, further descending the wormhole of darkside minimalism with his most obfuscated rhythmic explorations yet.

FATHOM witnesses Guy Brewer’s unrelenting distillation of precision electronics develop beyond prior incarnations into unclassifiable mutations. Carrier is his sonic vessel in this new era, liberating his prior restrictions to highlight the outer kinetic recesses of experimental sounds that finds a natural home on Perko’s ever-evolving FELT imprint.

The title track twitches along in hallucinatory abstraction, circling the depths with glitched-out programming and fogged-out atmospherics. The Cusp narrows its gaze, meditating on a tense drum rollage that teeters on mellowed menace. Markers then forms a mechanised rinse-out of rumbling subs and plummeting steppers momentum. Trooper unfurls in a finale of future-shocked half time rollage and arpeggiated textures that affirms Carrier’s unwavering vision in sound and style.

Darcoform proudly presents DARCWAX002, a carefully curated four-track vinyl that encapsulates the essence of storytelling within the minimal house and breakbeat realms. Featuring four distinct artists, this release offers a sonic journey through layered textures, deep grooves, and masterful production.

Side A

Vid – Soundscapes

A pioneer of the minimal house genre, Vid delivers a profoundly immersive experience with Soundscapes. The track unfolds like a narrative, weaving intricate rhythms with atmospheric depth, taking the listener on a contemplative yet dynamic journey.

Cim Pian – Visions of Neverland

Cim Pian introduces us to a dreamlike world with Visions of Neverland. The track blends subtle melodic elements with a tight, groovy framework, evoking a sense of wonder and nostalgia that feels both grounded and otherworldly.

Side B

Mtps – Book Of Truth

Mtps crafts a delicate balance of groove and introspection in Book Of Truth. With its textured layers and driving rhythm, the track resonates as a personal yet universal story, making it a standout in any minimal selector's collection.

Durosai – Str8 Chillin

Closing the release is Durosai with Str8 Chillin, a minimal breakbeat track infused with electro influences. Its sharp percussion, intricate breaks, and playful basslines create a laid-back yet punchy vibe, perfect for injecting energy into any set.

DARCWAX002 is a testament to Darcoform’s commitment to showcasing unique voices in the underground music scene. Stay tuned for its release—this is a record not to be missed.

Graphician: Cimpian Mark from FaceToShape Studio
Mastering Engineer: Robin Virag from RV Audio

With Heilun, Hyldipi makes a stunning debut on ambient powerhouse Past Inside The Present by presenting seven meditative compositions shaped by his native Iceland's raw, introspective beauty. Crafted entirely with guitar and minimal hardware, each track feels like a gentle conversation with nature, ephemeral and soul-soothing. From the delicate strums of 'Opnun' to the deep serenity of 'Hvild,' the album flows like glacial melt, patient and healing. 'Fadmur' blooms with aching emotion, while 'Kyrrd' closes the journey in subaquatic calm. This is ambient music for deep listening-an improvised, transcendental escape into stillness, where the ego dissolves and all that remains is presence and peace.

2025 Marbled Vinyl Repress

Long awaited arrival of the mysterious yet not so mysterious known as The Artist Formerly Known As Minister President aka TAFKAMP. The A side features the warehouse lovestory we all dream about while the flip features darker tracks.

DJ Support: Chris Stussy, Enzo Siragusa, Hot Since 82, Prunk, and M-High

Amsterdam-based Hungarian duo Retrouve are ready to make their mark on the global house music stage with their highly anticipated debut album, Feel So Right LP, on PIV Records. This young and dynamic pair has been turning heads in the House and Minimal Deep Tech scene with their slick productions and fresh take on the genre. Featuring eight timeless tracks, Feel So Right LP is a masterclass in diversity and depth, showcasing Retrouve’s profound understanding of house music and beyond. From soulful grooves to driving basslines, each track tells a story of their journey as artists and friends, reflecting their determination to carve out a unique sonic identity that resonates with both the old guard and the new wave of house music enthusiasts. Despite being newcomers, Retrouve have already garnered significant support from some of the biggest names in the industry, including Chris Stussy, Enzo Siragusa, Hot Since 82, Prunk, and M-High. Their unreleased tracks have been sought-after IDs for the past two years, creating a buzz that has only grown louder with time. Feel So Right LP is a testament to the duo’s unwavering passion and dedication to their craft while creating a memorable listening journey. With this release, Retrouve are poised to become ones to watch in 2025 and beyond.

Esente Records proudly presents its latest vinyl release signed by BRYZ, a refined journey into electronic minimalism. This four-track collection opens with Slippery, a fluid exploration of rhythm and texture. Self Definition dives deep into self-reflective tones, capturing the essence of personal expression. She’s Infinite Bliss brings an ethereal, almost transcendental quality, while Eternal Sheevy leaves a timeless impression that lingers beyond the final beat. Each track embodies the minimal yet profound sound Esente Records champions—crafted for vinyl and designed to resonate on every level

Long in the making, Compton's own AshtreJinkins debuts on L.I.E.S. with the seven track Left 2 Rot lp. The seasoned producer delivers an amalgamation of reimagined electronic styles going from stripped back

Terrance Dixon-esce minimal techno psychedelia to classic 2013 L.I.E.S. hybrid cuts sitting in the hazy grey area between gnarled house and techno. An ode to the City of Lost Angels from where he hails, this record is a perfect backdrop for the dystopian ruins the city has become over the last years. Stark, gut wrenching cuts that will leave you for dead as the title suggests.

We are proud to announce the second installment of our sub label ‘Blanc.’

With a commitment to innovation and artistic diversity, Blanc aims to build on the foundations of Dubøka giving a home for bold creativity for artists.

As promised, our roster will boast a dynamic range of sounds with each release across vinyl and digital platforms.

The second Ep is masterfully created by Silat Beksi, featuring a powerful remix from Fedo. Known for his hypnotic soundscapes and finely tuned minimal grooves, Silat Beksi delivers an extraordinary vinyl release that captures the essence of minimal house music

Released Exclusively on vinyl, digital release to follow later 2025.

Silat Beksi - Recognition EP Feat Fedo Remix DBKAB002

Mastered at Cold Water Studios

Laibach und A/POLITICAL präsentieren 'Alamut' - ein brandneues Album mit symphonischen Originalwerken, die auf dem gleichnamigen Roman basieren - veröffentlicht als Doppel-Vinyl und 2CD via Mute.

Das Album wurde von Laibach und den Musikern aufgenommen, die 'Alamut' im Jahr 2022 in einer ehemaligen Kreuzritterburg in Ljubljana live aufführten. Zu den beteiligten Musikern gehören das RTV Slovenia Symphony Orchestra, die Vokalgruppe Human-Voice Ensemble aus Teheran, der Gallina Women's Choir und AccordiOna, ein Frauen-Akkordeon-Orchester, das von zusätzlichen Akkordeonspielern unterstützt wird und vom iranischen Dirigenten Navid Goharib geleitet wird.

'Alamut' ist ein symphonisches Originalwerk von Laibach, das auf einer berühmten Geschichte aus dem Persien des 11. Jahrhunderts basiert, die der slowenische Schriftsteller Vladimir Bartol in seinem 1938 erschienenen gleichnamigen Roman erzählt. Im Mittelpunkt steht Hassan-i Sabbah, der charismatische religiöse und politische Führer der Nizari-Ismailiten und Gründer einer geheimnisvollen militärischen Formation, die als die Assassinen bekannt ist und deren Name noch heute gefürchtet und respektiert wird. Hassan-i Sabbah ist ein selbsternannter Prophet, der von seinem Horst - der Burg von Alamut - aus einen heiligen Krieg gegen das Seldschukenreich führt. 'Alamut' befasst sich mit den Mechanismen der Propaganda zu der Zeit, als der slowenische Autor Bartol den Aufstieg des Faschismus in Triest, Italien, wo er lebte, miterlebte.

In Laibachs 'Alamut' verweben sich die Ideen des radikalen Nihilismus mit der klassischen persischen Poesie von Omar Khayyam, die sinnlichen Verse von Mahsati Ganjavi verschmelzen mit minimalistischen Orchesterfarben, die aus der iranischen Tradition stammen. Hassan-i Sabbahs Propagandamechanismen finden ihren Widerhall im industriellen Prinzip der Arbeitsweise des Orchesters und im einzigartigen Klang von Laibach.

Firn marks his debut release with LRC004; blending intricate rhythms with subtle textures whilst operating on the intersection of minimalism and complexity. Label head 543ff concludes LRC004 with a remix of 'Muztagh Tower'. Mastered by Audiosculpture.