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This time we present 4 solo tracks by Erykk Mtk on the exclusive label of Chris Liberator. Wellknown from Stay Up Forever. Fat Acid !!

Katya Shirskova - David Maranha - Le Héron / A Reuniåo

Stellagedelivers a compelling split LP fromKatya ShirshkovaandDavid Maranha, "Le Héron / A Reuniåo," set for release in July 2024. Created and produced in residence at La Box contemporary art gallery at ENSA - École national supérieure d'arts de Bourges in 2023, this album is a profound exploration of the two artists' respective voices, showcasing their distinctive approaches.

Katya Shirshkovaopens the LP with side-long "Le Héron." This piece is an unadulterated exploration of voice, devoid of any field recordings or added effects. Embracing minimalism, the work revolves solely around vocal loops and re-recordings, creating choral structures that evoke folk traditions while delving into experimental realms. The ASMR-like techniques employed serve not merely as an auditory gimmick but as an intricate tool to illustrate the delicate flight of birds, mirroring the ethereal quality of the entire composition.

"Le Heron" aptly draws inspiration from its avian namesake, weaving birds into its fabric through the concept of vertical polyphony. The piece is underpinned by a profound understanding of this polyphonic approach, demanding meticulous precision in its looping technique. Each fragile construction is crafted in a single, unbroken take, showcasing an impeccable blend of simplicity and complexity.

David Maranhatakes over on the flip side with "A Reuniåo," delivering seven suites of powerful, minimalist drone compositions. Maranha's mastery of sustained tones and evolving harmonics creates a mesmerizing, meditative experience that is both intense and transformative.A dynamic interplay of harmonics creates a dense, immersive auditory environment, a study in sustained tones and subtle variation, leaving a lasting impression.

Mixed and mastered by Giuseppe Ielasi

Massano is back on Afterlife with another captivating EP. Following his exemplary debut EP, In My System, Massano returns to Afterlife with Shut Down. This two-track release unveils the next chapter in this artist’s evolution.‘Shut Down’ is full of exhilarating tension, utilising an undulating low end, bright synth lines and playful breakdowns to invigorate dance floors. On the flip, ‘Cybernova’ demonstrates Massano’s ability to combine mesmerising melodies and aggressive basslines to create wonderfully uplifting compositions. Spellbinding music designed to transport you into a realm of awe and wonder.

Since its founding back in 2014, Blume has carved a unique place in cultural landscape, issuing free-standing works, spanning the historical and contemporary, that represent singular gestures of creativity within the field of experimental sound. Joining their broad efforts in building networks of context and understanding that already includes the works by Werner Durand, Sarah Hennies, Bruce Nauman, John Butcher, Jocy de Oliveira, Mary Jane Leach, Valentina Magaletti, Alvin Curran, Julius Eastman, Alvin Lucier, and shortly after returning with the first ever vinyl release to attend to James Tenney’s legendary “Postal Pieces”, the label is now offering a brand new, ambitious work by the American composer Ben Vida, entitled “Vocal Trio”, conceived, performed, and recorded in Bremen, Germany, during the Spring of 2022. A truly stunning work of compositional conceptualism, combining the ideas of systems based synthesis with real-time vocal collaboration - issued in a highly limited vinyl edition of 200 copies mastered by Stephan Mathieu, featuring specially commissioned liner notes by Bradford Bailey and a leporello insert offering the piece visual score - it’s a landmark in contemporary experimental practice and arguably the most forward-thinking and exciting piece by one of the most exciting American artists working today.

Ben Vida first emerged during the mid 1990s within a loose constellation of experimental musicians, centred around a performance series of improvised workshops at the Myopic Bookstore in Chicago, alongside Jim O'Rourke, Kevin Drumm, Chad Taylor, and the other future members of Town and Country - Jim Dorling, Joshua Abrams, and Liz Payne - the band within which he would gain widespread recognition over the following years. Like many other members of that scene, Vida remains a restless product of a fleeting context - Chicago during the 1990s and early 2000s - continuously undermining concrete notions of idiom and signifier within a practice that witnessed him rendering bristling abstractions within Pillow, glacial melodies with Town and Country, the art-rock mayhem of Bird Show Band, and the angular, driving indie rock of Joan of Arc, before becoming immersed in a practice of systems based synthesis, beginning in the 2010s, that guided much of his first decade of output as a solo performer and composer.

As early as 2013, he began to incorporate acoustic sound sources - specifically the human voice - into his work. It was this shift, evolving and refining itself over the last decade, that underscores radically the leap in his practice represented by “Vocal Trio”, a work that encounters Vida composing for the human voice with the ideas that allow for synthesis - transferring the underlying concepts and structures of both subtractive and additive synthesis to the acoustic realm - without using a synthesiser.

During the Spring of 2022 Vida was in Bremen, Germany, collaborating on a dance piece with the choreographer Fay Driscoll, when the production fell into delays. Finding himself with time on his hands, a space at his disposal, and the company of two dancers - Amy Gernux and Lotte Rudhart - who were also singers, the idea for the piece - to utilising the larynx as audio paths (multi-harmonic or harmonically pure) while conceptualising each person’s mouth as a filter to sculpt the timbre and resonance of a given tone - began to take shape in his mind. Considering how typographical scores might be developed into a non-linguistic social framework, Vida drafted a single page of text - what became the score for “Vocal Trio” - accompanied by a set of harmonic suggestion and loose parameters, seeking a core meaning from each word's phonic make-up by each of the three singers (Vida, Gernux and Rudhart) singing as slowly as possible.

At the core of the pulsing vocal drones - intoxicating, harmonically rich long-tones - that make up the duration abstraction of “Vocal Trio”, is Vida’s regard for music as a social space. It is an experiment that seeks liberation through the act of collective music making, by challenging the terms through which the act of composing is perceived and then relinquishing control. The piece’s rehearsals were simply the three performers hanging out, allowing their knowing each other and natural dynamics to contribute to its form as the score, before recording during a single afternoon at the end of a number of days sharing company and space.

Creatively visionary and groundbreaking on numerous terms, as well as being intoxicatingly beautiful and remarkably listenable, Ben Vida’s “Vocal Trio” represents a striking step forward for one of the most ambitious and outstanding sonic artists working in the United States today. Issued by Blume in a highly limited vinyl edition of 200 copies mastered by Stephan Mathieu, featuring specially commissioned liner notes by Bradford Bailey and a leporello insert offering the piece visual score, this is hands down one of the most important contemporary records we’re likely to encounter in 2024.

3 Feet Deep is back with a new record infused with personal significance - five UKG tracks cooked up by French artists. Folklore associates Bernardo & Stefan Dubs deliver two enthralling dark 2-step tunes respectively on A1 and B1 while Enrico Dragony, DJ W!LD, and Pépé Elle explore the rhythmic realms of 4x4 beats. The record is guided by the loose, instinctive style of each artist, evolving organically following their own interpretations of UKG.

Step into a world where authenticity meets emotional resonance with Maxo's 2018 album, "Smile," produced by the mastermind Lastnamedavid. This release marks the genesis of a new era, a departure from prevailing trends, and an introduction to the genuine artistry of Maxo.

"Smile" is a testament to Maxo's effortless storytelling and emotional delivery, setting a refreshing tone in the contemporary music landscape. Lastnamedavid's soulful production serves as the perfect backdrop, creating a sound that is as real as the content it supports. The album captures a range of emotions, painting a vivid picture of Maxo's journey through the realms of honesty, youthfulness, troubles, and hope.

From the reflective "Same Hoodie Since ‘05," a sobering exploration of identity and roots, to the anti-romantic ballad "Evelyn," Maxo invites listeners to join him on a personal and introspective journey. "Smile" serves as a reminder, not just to Maxo but to an entire generation, to appreciate every situation, irrespective of the circumstances.

The project features a notable collaboration with Sharp, adding an extra layer of depth to the already rich tapestry of "Smile." As Maxo unfolds his narrative, the synergy between his lyrical prowess and Lastnamedavid's production creates a sound that is not just music but an authentic expression of self.

"Smile" is more than an album; it's a sonic exploration of the human experience, capturing the essence of Maxo's voice and vision. In a world of fleeting trends, Maxo and Lastnamedavid deliver a timeless record that resonates with honesty, making "Smile" a standout release in the musical landscape of 2018.

Celebrating their 10th anniversary, Slowly Rolling Camera's sixth studio release, 'Silver Shadow,' is inspired by the dynamic interplay of film montages—infused with soul-stirring rhythms, magnetic melodies, and a lush spectrum of emotional tones.

Since bursting onto the scene in 2013, Cardiff's Slowly Rolling Camera has crafted a distinctive niche in the European jazz tapestry, effortlessly weaving together soul-stirring rhythms, magnetic melodies, and a rich palette of emotional hues. Known for alchemical compounds of jazz finesse, cinematic gravitas, and electronic flair, Slowly Rolling Camera fashions sound, perpetually pushing the boundaries of musical creativity.

"This album reflects our fascination with the cinematic approach, not just in sound, but in how we construct our music". SRC’s latest album, 'Silver Shadow,' delves even deeper into that cinematic realm. Inspired by the visual and musical interplay infilm montages, 'Silver Shadow' centers around a fictional protagonist, encapsulated both in the album’s narrative arc and its striking artwork. The tracks, concise and emotionally consistent, mark a departure from earlier long-form composition, aiming instead for more immediate impact.The core trio of Dave Stapleton (keys), Deri Roberts (sound design & production), and Elliot Bennett (drums) drive the band's collective ethos, further ornamented by a vibrant ensemble of collaborators including Jasper Høiby on bass, Josh Arcoleo onsax, Stuart McCallum on guitar, and Verneri Pohjola on trumpet. The band’s genre-defying approach and profound emotional depth has earned comparison with iconic groups The Cinematic Orchestra and GoGo Penguin and captured the hearts ofmany thousands of fans worldwide.

Berlin"s pre-eminent vocal ensemble, "A Song For You" pioneers a new wave of choral music with their debut album "Home". A Song For You, are a groundbreaking vocal ensemble, uniting over 50 artists from all over the world, led by the visionary collaboration of Noah Slee and Dhanesh Jayaselan. The collective defies any form of categorisation, sitting in a sonic realm somewhere between Neo Soul, R&B and Gospel. A Song For You celebrates the rich tapestry of Berlin"s musical landscape while providing a critical platform for underrepresented voices.

PRZ comes to Sync 24's Cultivated Electronics with his first double Album ''Lost Art''. In the ever-evolving realm of electronic music, where sonic innovation is the currency, PRZ (Gal Perez) emerges as a luminary, crafting sonic landscapes with a distinct style that blends intricate rhythms, ethereal melodies and pulsating beats. As a producer, DJ and co-founder of the Chateau Royal label and Pluto Junkies member, PRZ has spent the last decade shaping his sound and releasing tracks on some of dance music's most respected labels including Clone West Coast Series and Hilltown Disco. With a boundless imagination and unwavering commitment to sonic exploration, his ''Lost Art'' release is a fully-formed album rather than just a collection of tracks, opening with the atmospheric intro of ''Introvert'', before the playful sonic antics of tracks like ''Lazerton'', ''Lost Art'' and ''Voice Over''. Other tracks bring pure Electro darkness like ''Velocity Shift'' alongside the ElectroTechno of ''Time To Decide'', the EBM-esque ''Azaya'' or the retro funk of ''Back From 89'' - all primed for dance floors, before closing on the melancholy ''Miss You''.

A mastermind in showcasing various shades of house music in their inimitable manner, Danish-born, Amsterdam-based DJ/producer Samuel Andre Madsen, aka S.A.M., stands as a rare talent within the current house landscape. Whether crafting trippy, cosmic and psychedelic late-night excursions, delicate, hazy journeys, or groove-driven, heady cuts, their studio naus and innate musical talent has seen them release via a list of leading labels while heading up their own Delaphine, Dahlia and Oscillat imprints - not to mention their longstanding role as one-third of globally renowned trio Mandar. Returning to Up The Stuss following their stand-out collaborative ‘Get Together’ project with label boss Chris Stussy three years ago, 2024 welcomes a blissful late summer outing with the excellently crafted ‘Check It Out’ EP. From the deep, captivating and hypnotic sonics of the title track to the skippy Tiger Balm’, the bumping grooves of ‘Race To Lose’ and the classy tones of ‘Forever Rhodes’, prepare to be transported across the house realm with yet another faultless EP from one of the best around.

Kyrck Productions & Armour is now presenting two early works of AMESTIGON for the first time on vinyl.
"Mysterious Realms" features material from the 1996 split with ANGIZIA and the ltd. EP "Remembering
Ancient Origins". The latter was released in 2000 and featured ABIGOR and SUMMONING vocalist
Silenius

2024 Repress

Dauw welcomes Berlin based musician Midori Hirano to the label with her new album Soniscope. Award winning composer Robot Koch provided a rework of the track Patterns under his recently announced new ambient project Foam and Sand.

With releases on acclaimed labels such as Longform Editions, Sonic Pieces and Alien Transistor, Midori Hirano is no stranger within the field of electro-acoustic piano music. While she is more known for her studio-work, it is often forgotten that she also has a long tradition of writing for films and theatre productions. This forms an important part in her work and a constant inspiration for her autonomous work. Soniscope is no exception in that regard. While working on the film Mizuko (Kira Dane, Katelyn Rebelo, 2019), a still of many little Jizo statutes got her attention and came to be the first steps of her new album.

“I was fascinated by the combination of the image and sound which well emphasized the stillness with a slight of emotion.” (Midori Hirano)

With the Jizo statutes on her mind, Midori Hirano wanted to make an album and started envisioning several personal narratives. Soniscope can be considered as the soundtrack of her own personal stories related to these statues of which Mizuko Jizo was the starting point. With Soniscope, Hirano continues in the same vein as her previous albums in which piano and electronic arrangements hold a central place. However, on this record she specifically explored new possibilities in terms of techniques and instruments.

Midori Hirano is a Japanese musician, composer and producer, born in Kyoto and living in Berlin since 2008. She started learning the piano as a child, and this triggered what was to later see her study classical piano at university. Therefore her productions are based on the use of acoustic instruments such as the piano, strings or guitars, but yet experimental and an eclectic mixture of modern digital sounds with subtle electronic processing and field recordings.

Her first two albums were released on noble records, and her second, “klo:yuri”(2008), saw her further develop of her sound, garnering critical acclaim from various media including TIME magazine , BBC radio and FACT Magazine. Over the following years Midori has performed in venues and festivals as diverse as Club Transmediale, Heroines of Sound Festival, Erased Tapes Sound Gallery, L.E.V. Festival, Boiler Room Berlin, and Wonderfruit Festival.

The nine solo albums and numerous single track releases to date include the works of her other moniker MimiCof, in which she explores the realm of experimental music and detailed rhythmic patterns, combined with an idea of drawing melodic shapes and harmonies. Her recent works have been released by labels such as Sonic Pieces, Daisart, Alien Transistor, raster-media, 7k! Music and Longform Editions.

Besides producing her own works, she composes music for films, video installations and dance performances. The films that have commissioned works by Midori have been screened at Berlin International Film Festival, SXSW Film Festival, International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam and among others.

Garage Hermétique's sub-label dedicated to non-club excursions continues its exploration by welcoming Nummer to its collection of mixtapes.

Let yourself be captivated by the day unfolding under the morning sun, filtered dreamy synths, the memory of distant voices and eerie percussions; echoing in the garden, transporting the listener into a kaleidoscopic realm.

Asmaa Hamzaoui stands out as a pioneering female figure in the traditionally male-dominated realm of Gnawa music. With her group, Bnat Timbouktou, she brings a dynamic and spiritual dimension to the genre, infusing it with the vibrant energy of desert blues. Despite the essential role women have played in Gnawa rituals, female musicians have historically been underrepresented. Hamzaoui, however, is at the forefront of changing this trend. Born into a family deeply entrenched in Gnawa traditions in Casablanca, Hamzaoui was immersed in this musical heritage from a young age. Her father, a master musician, and her mother, a dancer, provided a rich environment for her early education in music. She learned to play the guembri, a three-stringed lute central to Gnawa music, and began performing with her father's band on the qraqeb, metal castanets used in Gnawa music, and in the choir. Encouraged by her father, she eventually formed her own group, Bnat Timbouktou. The group's debut album, "Oulad Lghaba," recorded in collaboration with the Swedish label ajabu! Records, was critically acclaimed and nominated for a Songlines Music Award. This album, along with their upcoming release "L'bnat," showcases Hamzaoui's commitment to preserving and revitalizing Gnawa music. "L'bnat," will emphasize the female traditions and spiritual aspects of Gnawa culture. Hamzaoui's performances are characterized by her powerful voice and the rhythmic, percussive playing of the guembri. Her music not only pays homage to the spiritual and healing qualities of Gnawa but also aims to keep the tradition alive by introducing it to new audiences worldwide.

Veyl is pleased to welcome Velvet May for his debut LP on the label. Enchanted By The Muse marks a new and exciting direction for the Italian-born, Berlin-based artist whose aesthetic focuses on post-punk, techno and industrial music. This album embodies May’s exploration and experimentation of various musical directions, reflecting a fusion of industrial, rock and electronic elements. It also symbolizes a new approach, spanning genres and styles and exploring his sound from every angle.
Conceptually, the album reflects a realm of emotional dissonance in an industrial desolation - where harsh electronic textures mingle with gritty industrial and rock elements. Also present are echoes of punk's raw energy and adrenalinic drive, a musical journey through shifting moods and atmospheres, serving as a soundtrack to different aspects of life and capturing the essence of its high and lows.
From the opening track, “Now That You Have Left It All”, we are lured into a thrilling sonic dimension with a shot of energy that sets the stage for journey ahead. “Keep On Falling” injects a dose of rock which we find throughout the record fused with the artist’s signature blend of postpunk, industrial and techno strains. Tracks like “The Outsider” and “Slithering Serenade” conjure raw, distorted rhythms and a menacing fuzz which bleeds out of the speakers while “Scales of Gold” traverses back through infectious body and wave. “Illusion In Control” is the perfect climax, a musical assault that shatters boundaries and blurs the lines between reality and fantasy.

High Roller Records, reissue 2024, black vinyl, ltd 350, lyric sheet

High Roller Records, reissue 2024, splatter vinyl, ltd 350, lyric sheet

For the 20th Pleasure Club release we are very happy to present an EP from two core members of the Pleasure Club family - Johnny Hunter & Remi Mazet.

The "Passing Through Fyah EP" comes via the connected mind of both artists, with a record which spans and blurs the realms of house, techno and electro. Characterised by dubwise basslines, cosmic synth work and expert drum programming, this one feels like the perfect way for us to celebrate the two zero milestone.

A big shout out to everyone who has supported the label until now. We really appreciate it <3

Cinderella's album Still Climbing is a testament to the band's enduring legacy in the realm of hard rock. This fourth and last studio album was released in 1994, combined gritty guitars with Tom Keifer's signature raspy vocals making it an authentic rock record. The track ""Hot & Bothered"" first appeared on the soundtrack of 90s comedy film Wayne's World, which starred Mike Meyers and Dana Carvey. Further standout songs from the album are ""Bad Attitude Shuffle"", ""Freewheelin"" and ""Through The Rain"". Still Climbing includes an insert with lyrics.

Next up in Mr Bongo's Groove Merchant Records reissue series, sees an outing for a much-loved and heavily sampled funk/soul/blues album by Junior Parker. Originally issued under the title The Outside Man on Capitol Records in 1970 with an alternative cover, this reissue replicates the Groove Merchant release titled Love Ain't Nothin' But A Business Goin' On featuring the car cover released in 1971.

The Mississippi-born, Memphis-based blues singer, harmonica player and songwriter Junior Parker (aka Little Junior Parker) had a stellar career in music. Since the early 1950s he released records on labels such as Duke, Mercury, United Artists Records and more. Sadly though, Parker died at the young age of 39 during surgery on November 18, 1971.

Originally released under the alternate title a year before his untimely death, Love Ain't Nothin' But a Business Goin' On is drenched in Parker’s trademark buttery vocals and soulful grooves, swaggering between smokey blues, raw funk outings and orchestrated soul ballads (with sublime arrangements by Horace Ott).

The album also features three Beatles cover versions in the form of ‘Taxman’, ‘Lady Madonna’ and ‘Tomorrow Never Knows’. For 'Taxman', Parker completely reinterprets the song taking into a New Orleans funk realm, a sample of which was used as the main hook line on Cypress Hill's classic 'I Wanna Get High'. Elsewhere, 'Tomorrow Never Knows' is flipped into a tripped-out, psychedelic soul-swamp blues ballad, whilst 'Lady Madonna' is given a funky blues makeover.

As shown with Cypress Hill’s use of ‘Taxman’, since the ‘70s Parker’s legacy has been immortalised for future generations through the deep well of samples that his music has become a source of. Tracks from Love Ain't Nothin' But a Business Goin' On have been sampled by some of the biggest names out there, such as A Tribe Called Quest, DJ Shadow and De La Soul.

A seriously smooth album oozing with soul and emotion from a Blues Hall of Fame inductee, Junior Parker’s Love Ain't Nothin' But A Business Goin' On is a superb example of the early ‘70s crossover funk/soul sound.

There are albums that tap into the very heartbeats of rhythm, melody and intricate sound design, pulsating with every musical note. This is the case of 'Séptimo Sentido', the new album by Buenos Aires-based producer Seph.

Sebastián Galante aka Seph is no stranger to these realms; with almost two decades of experience under his belt, he has established himself as one of the leading talents in the Argentina techno scene and as one of the most intriguing minds in alternative Latin American electronic music. His productions have found a home in cutting edge labels such as Insurgentes –a platform led by the DJ and producer from Medellín (Colombia) Verraco, and sister label of TraTraTrax, which has reduced gaps between the Latin electronic scene and the rest of the globe– or his own label Aula Magna Records. He has also fostered collaborations, among which stands out his project Oscean alongside Andrés Zacco, a project that was recently released on the legendary Berlin label Tresor.

In his new album 'Séptimo Sentido', Seph exhibits superlative production skills and masterfully showcases the widest palette of the braindance sound, that intersection where countless genres and sub-styles can coexist. Here we hear echoes from the mid-90s that revive undeniable references of early IDM; but with a renewed form, under a fiercely contemporary new skin.

At the core of this intriguing album, we find an artist whose devotion to experimentation takes his rhythmic and melodic obsessions through vibrant magical-techno-urban landscapes, where radiant colors and mutating forms collide in a bold and imaginative sonic journey.

'Séptimo Sentido' hails from the prism of perception, beyond the five senses and a step further than instinct, hunting for mysterious resonances with the cosmos; like a space portal inviting us to float a handspan above the ground.

The superb Philoxenia Records, which is spearheaded by Luigi Di Venere and Neu Verboten, here unveils a coveted addition to its collection with the the super limited Last Place On Earth EP from Vilnius-based Dovydas Platakis aka Jokios Kulturos. It's a cinematic work that immerses listeners in a dystopian realm that blends avant-garde tones with manga-inspired cyberpunk vibes. Each track serves as a gateway to a world where technological progress intertwines with societal decline, which is of course often the focus of classic cyberpunk literature. Di Venere and Verboten also combine under their Affekt Unit alias to deliver captivating remixes and bring trance and tribal techno elements to the party.

"To change your mood or mental state - change your Vibration" A fragment from the Kyballion has deeply resonated with the band in recent years. Everything is mental, as Above so Below. BALTHVS deeply believes in these tenets, and their manifestation is through music. Melodies that try to resonate deep within and generate a different type of Vibration.

From the psychedelic experience arises a more balanced lifestyle, and from arduous and uncertain times arises the desire to have inner peace of mind. Music is medicine for the soul and the trio plays this music to wind down, relax, and be more present. It's music from the 21st century, a time when the world has deeply connected to one another via the digital realm, cultures are now free from geographic boundaries, they influence, mesh, and collide with one another. Turkish melodies meet Latin rhythms, from instrumental tunes to Spanish and English lyrics.

The band freely takes from all corners of the world, and it reflects on the global audience they have slowly amassed in the past 4 years. Third Vibration is a celebration of life; a deep respect for the power of music.

"To change your mood or mental state - change your Vibration" A fragment from the Kyballion has deeply resonated with the band in recent years. Everything is mental, as Above so Below. BALTHVS deeply believes in these tenets, and their manifestation is through music. Melodies that try to resonate deep within and generate a different type of Vibration.

From the psychedelic experience arises a more balanced lifestyle, and from arduous and uncertain times arises the desire to have inner peace of mind. Music is medicine for the soul and the trio plays this music to wind down, relax, and be more present. It's music from the 21st century, a time when the world has deeply connected to one another via the digital realm, cultures are now free from geographic boundaries, they influence, mesh, and collide with one another. Turkish melodies meet Latin rhythms, from instrumental tunes to Spanish and English lyrics.

The band freely takes from all corners of the world, and it reflects on the global audience they have slowly amassed in the past 4 years. Third Vibration is a celebration of life; a deep respect for the power of music.

Nearly a decade after their last album, Lilacs and Champagne picks up right where that record, Midnight Features Vol. 2: Made Flesh, left off. With bizarre excursions into pillowy, sentimental made-for-TV music - and children's choirs incanting the blackest dread-filled music the band has conjured to date - Fantasy World is both transcendent and traumatic. Despite sharing two founding members of Grails (multi-instrumentalists Emil Amos and Alex Hall) Fantasy World only peripherally resembles their core group. Lilacs & Champagne have exaggerated their early record's implications and accelerated their mercurial rearranging of music history by deftly incorporating live instrumentation and samples with equal amounts of deference and disregard. Previously existing primarily in a realm adjacent to instrumental hip-hop (J Dilla, Clams Casino, Madlib), Fantasy World exposes Lilacs & Champagne's deeper lineage as playful tape-collage culture jammers in the vein of legendary sound satirists, Negativland and Severed Heads. It embraces the effect of a child entering a dollar store: the immediate euphoria felt upon discovering the seemingly endless aisles piled impossibly high with novelty toys, utensils, party decorations, and toiletries eventually gives way to the overwhelming realization that they're actually just a tourist in a perilous mountain of colorful garbage. From those mountains, Lilacs & Champagne mold monuments to curiosity and confusion.

The 2019 released "Caligula" took the vision of Kristin Hayter's vessel to the next level of grandeur, her purging and vengeful audial vision went beyond anything preceding it and reached an unparalleled sonic plane within her oeuvre. Succeeding her self-released 2017 "All Bitches Die" opus, "CALIGULA" saw Hayter design an ambitious work, displaying the full force of her talent as a vocalist, composer, and storyteller. Vast in scope and multivalent in its influences, with delivery nothing short of demonic, "CALIGULA" is an outsider's opera; magnificent, hideous, and raw. Eschewing and disavowing genre altogether, Hayter built her own world. Here she fully embodied the moniker Lingua Ignota, from the German mystic Hildegard of Bingen, meaning "unknown language" _ this music has no home, any precedent or comparison could only be uneasily given, and there is nothing else like it in our contemporary realm. Whilst "CALIGULA" is unapologetically personal and critically self-aware, there are broader themes explored; the decadence, corruption, depravity and senseless violence of emperor Caligula is well documented and yet still permeates today. Brimming with references and sly jabs, Hayter's sardonic commentary on abuse of power and invalidation is deftly woven. Working closely with Seth Manchester at Machines With Magnets studio in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, Hayter stripped away much of the industrial and electronic elements of her previous work, approaching instead the corporeal intensity and intimate menace of her notorious live performances, achieved with unconventional recording techniques and sound sources, as well as a full arsenal of live instrumentation and collaborators including harsh noise master Sam McKinlay (THE RITA), visceral drummer Lee Buford (The Body) and frenetic percussionist Ted Byrnes (Cackle Car, Wood & Metal), with guest vocals from Dylan Walker (Full of Hell), Mike Berdan (Uniform), and Noraa Kaplan (Visibilities). "CALIGULA" is a massive work, a multi-layered epic that gives voice and space to that which has been silenced and cut out.

A1 - Shadowplay
A delicate intro with samples of bustling twilight life gradually eases you into Shadowplay, before a retrospective melody echoes around an uncertain soundscape. Light breaks and pads develop the vibe before the track transforms as the unmistakable Demon's Theme break returns, superbly crafted rolling amens taking you right back to 1992 in ASC's expertly executed, inimitable Spatial style.
A2 - Lacuna
Crisp, sharp breaks open Lacuna in rampant stuttering style, a sci-fi aura riddling this detailed piece with hi hats and machine gun kicks, quickly conjuring a suspenseful intrigue alongside constant pads and epic effects. Driven by deep sub bass and a haunting melody that captivates the listener, long cymbals and synthwork continue before the second half of the track deepens further before the breaks subside for a lush, calming outro.
AA1 - Dimensions
ASC delivers a stunning, deeply atmospheric track with Dimensions, introduced by swathes of elegant synthwork before the Hot Pants breaks begin, chopped elegantly while a heavy bassline drops and the coloured soundscape whooshes and swirls as yearning vocals reverberate. After a sullen breakdown the breaks return and switch up to a rolling 2-step pattern which will leave you and your dancefloor drifting to another realm.
AA2 - Southern Cross
Closing the EP we have Southern Cross, a pensive number with a delicate, intricate selection of breaks - refined with exquisite clarity - set to washes of pads and synths across the mix. ASC utilises a simple high note melody to punctuate proceedings over the swirling atmospherics and breaks, creating a subtle ghostly feel to the track - perfect for a mid set direction shift or an introspective set closer as well as mesmerising headphone material.
Words by Chris Hayes (Spatial / Red Mist)

A1 - Wireframe
Label stalwart Aural Imbalance returns to Spatial with the dreamy Wireframe, opening with a sea of beautiful ambient padwork which ushers in a sumptuous, brisk Circles break pattern to the forefront. A myriad of light touch samples & effects twist and twirl over the composition with a fantastic 808 bassline that complements the show-stealing breaks, completing another exquisite collage of atmospheric bliss.
A2 - Hollow Sun
Another fine exploration in atmospheric serenity, Hollow Sun opens with light hats and high-pass filtered breaks which develop into a thick, weighty slice of breakbeat bliss. Like a gentle breeze on a warm summer night, the tapestry of airy melodies beckon the listener into a realm of sonic wonder, the breaks, bass and effects crafting the kind of inimitable soft yet danceable atmosphere Aural Imbalance has truly mastered in his Spatial guise.

AA1 - Distant Stars
Mixing up the vibe with flowing keys and metallic undertones in the intro, heavy old-school breaks with a dense analogue kick drum seize the limelight as Aural Imbalance showcases an impressively subtle break editing skillset with Distant stars. While a knowing aura of elegance and grace build an ethereal soundscape with the padwork, the breaks playfully jostle in the mix towards a clean DJ-friendly outro. Sublime.
AA2 - Eclipse
Low-pass break filtering and an introspective, slightly tense atmosphere introduce Eclipse, before a real treat to the senses unfolds as heavy breakwork thunders hard into the mix with crisp snares and rolling drums. It's a symphony of light and shadow, of tension and release as Aural Imbalance continues to expand his incredible repertoire of sound on Spatial, rounding off another superb explorative EP
Words by Chris Hayes (Spatial / Red Mist)

TIPP! :)

For the latest Cognitiva release the label present the 4th release of their Point of View series which focuses on dance floor-oriented sounds, this time they invite the marvellously talented Dr. Sud to deliver a wondrous, jazz laden odyssey, which entices as much as it delights - with some expert remixes to boot….
Dr Sud is the main alias of Gregorio Marigliano, an Italian music maker who was raised in Berlin. Marigliano’s music revolves around the principles of Jazz-meets-Dance music, drawing up the rich tradition that has come before in bringing a high level of musicality and ingenuity within his tunes. Moving fluidly between rhythms and feels, as Dr Sud he captures the imagination with thought provoking and captivating sequences, striking a fine balance between depth and danceability. Harmonies and groove play a key part within his music, such as was highlighted on his 2023 EP ‘Heading South’, coming courtesy of the Q1E2 imprint. This record really highlighted his profound abilities and deep set affection for instrumentation but also mood and tone, and it left many waiting for his next release with baited breath.

‘Point of View 4’ continues forth with the supreme feels that permeated through ‘Heading South’, with the key movement onwards being the inclusion of some killer remixes from Gary Superfly, Broke One, Turbojazz and Reekee. Two original cuts, ‘Breakfast Sun’ and ‘Desert Wind’, lead Sides A and B respectively, and do much to help create a distinctive balance and bookend kind of feel to the record. ‘Breakfast Sun’ begins with a wondrous polyrhythm to get things going, a lone vocal sample thrown in for good measure, and before long we are joined by some delicate but hyper precise melodic features. The slow drawn out chords contrast superbly with the short sharp stabs, acting in accordance with the drums, with the first breakdown providing space for the keys to really flourish and take over. The breakout back into the core rhythm allows for a lead synth line to emerge, and provide those bountiful feels we were all yearning for. The remixes do much to add flavour and some diverse alternative perpectives on the original, with the Turbojazz/Broke One remix taking things in a house-y leaning direction, with the hats and kicks shifting the rhythmic perspective towards sun kissed horizons. The Gary Superfly remix however takes things into a much more cosmic space, with a punchy acid line weaving within the underbelly of the track, providing that late night dance feel for club land scenarios.

On the B Side, ‘Desert Wind’ kicks things off, and once again the drums here start us off in a winning space. The groove is so delicate, poised and perfected, and when the first breakdown arrives the chords come into view, and its glorious to say the least. This track focuses on a much more smooth melodic sequence, with a greater emphasis placed on the lead line, but its just as impactful and soulful as the EPs opener. Delicate waterfall style keys shift in and out of view, providing an overall picture of sonic beauty that we can get behind time and time again. To wrap things up, the Reekee remix of ‘Desert Wind’ comes into view, with this track again moving into dance floor realms with a swinging garage beat that feels unstoppable, shifting and moving between the lines with a joyous ease.

Dr Sud may be a producer to keep a keen eye on, with this latest EP certainly doing that sentiment a great level of justice. This EP provides not only two beautiful original cuts from the man himself, but some imaginative remixes that honour the originals and provide us with an record that will linger long in the memory. For home use, down by the rivera, or in the club, this one has the lot…..

Tetsu Shibuya, better known as simply Tetsu or BRISA is a Japanese producer and DJ known for works on the iconic Japanese Jazzy Sport imprint, King Street sub-label Nite Grooves and his own BRISA Music. Leading the EP is title-track 'Stir', in collaboration with Turbojazz BRISA delivers a classic slice of deep house built upon layers of bright stab sequences and loose organic percussion. Detroit's beloved Jon Dixon turns his hand to 'Stir' next, encapsulating the soul of his hometown in reshaping fragments of the original composition. The original of 'Reverie' opens the B-side, laying down a broken rhythm, low-pitched vocal hooks and elongated bass grooves for a more bruk tinged feel. Byron The Aquarius then extracts the core of 'Reverie' and spins it into bumpy, subtly nuanced house workout. Lastly the third original 'Flux' rounds out the release, shifting deeper in funkinfused realms with a playful plucked bass groove and heavily swung drums.

DON'T surfaces as an organic collaboration, born from the accidental union of Lamusa II and countless artists active in the arts scene, seamlessly merging into a singular entity.

Conceived, crafted, and captured entirely in the streets of Milan, DON'T finds its essence rooted in the ethereal realms of trip-hop and the pulsating energy of 90s electronic rock. The culmination is a mesmerizing exploration, a kaleidoscopic embrace of his fluid artistic evolution, solidifying his position as a seminal figure in Italy's contemporary music scene.

The album features collaborations with several artists, including Canadian electronic musician and producer Marie Davidson, the Italian artist Zara Colombo and the mysterious music duo Assembly Group.

One mere year after their previous pitch-black sounding album Krypt, LA outfit Male Tears is back with a new full-length and – oh boy – everything is changed.

The used-to-be duo is now a four piece with James Edward as the sole founding member remaining and apparently this new line-up helped the original vocalist to shapeshift again.
Remember their very first debut album from 2021 and those dark synthpop sounds?

With their upcoming fourth album (in only three years), this American electronic-pop act from Southern California doubles the stakes once again and where Krypt was all about being goth and gloomy and disturbingly paroxysmal, Paradisco is somehow quite the opposite.

Eight new tracks of pure italo disco, hi-NRG and freestyle bliss that pick up where the band left off three years ago to pursue much darker realms. Now that the quest for darkness is done, it is time to polish our nails and dress up for the night-out cause there’s more in life than feeling sorry for yourself. Yes you will need to cut out the deadwood but there is no change in stillness.

So join Male Tears and their new arsenal of bangers and floor fillers with assertive titles such as Out of my Life, Regret 4 Nothing and Leave it Alone.

Get yourself wrapped up in one warm cover of delicate nostalgia and reborn romanticism, driven by sounds that pay homage equally to Miko Mission and Ken Laszlo, Lisa Lisa and Exposé and, well yeah, even The Smiths because say what you wanna say but you simply cannot not love The Smiths.

Embrace the vintage vibes that organically propagate from this new record’s grooves and get in the mood for this new course in full-on 1980’s Pop.

One mere year after their previous pitch-black sounding album Krypt, LA outfit Male Tears is back with a new full-length and – oh boy – everything is changed.

The used-to-be duo is now a four piece with James Edward as the sole founding member remaining and apparently this new line-up helped the original vocalist to shapeshift again.
Remember their very first debut album from 2021 and those dark synthpop sounds?

With their upcoming fourth album (in only three years), this American electronic-pop act from Southern California doubles the stakes once again and where Krypt was all about being goth and gloomy and disturbingly paroxysmal, Paradisco is somehow quite the opposite.

Eight new tracks of pure italo disco, hi-NRG and freestyle bliss that pick up where the band left off three years ago to pursue much darker realms. Now that the quest for darkness is done, it is time to polish our nails and dress up for the night-out cause there’s more in life than feeling sorry for yourself. Yes you will need to cut out the deadwood but there is no change in stillness.

So join Male Tears and their new arsenal of bangers and floor fillers with assertive titles such as Out of my Life, Regret 4 Nothing and Leave it Alone.

Get yourself wrapped up in one warm cover of delicate nostalgia and reborn romanticism, driven by sounds that pay homage equally to Miko Mission and Ken Laszlo, Lisa Lisa and Exposé and, well yeah, even The Smiths because say what you wanna say but you simply cannot not love The Smiths.

Embrace the vintage vibes that organically propagate from this new record’s grooves and get in the mood for this new course in full-on 1980’s Pop.

Braulio Lam's Close-Up is a captivating soundscape that blurs the lines between music and photography.
Hailing from the border region between San Diego and Tijuana, Lam's inspiration stems from the vibrant cultural exchange and diverse musical traditions of the area. His creativity as a music producer and photographer converges seamlessly into this album, where he manipulates images and sounds, using light as a catalyst for his sonic experiments.
The album's eight tracks showcase Lam's eclectic sonic palette, ranging from electronica and dub techno to ambient and trip hop. The opening track, "Prologue," sets the stage with a haunting guitar echo and a spacious, downtempo beat. Angelic vocals float ethereal over the sonic backdrop, creating a sense of scenic grandeur. "Cinestill" immerses listeners in a sub-aquatic realm with its slow-pulsing beat and cavernous ambiance. "Buena Vista Social Dub" captivates with its sensual vocals, echoing drums, and hypnotic melody.
"Monika" evokes a sense of beachy tranquility with its electric guitar and ambient soundscapes, while "Mirror" transports listeners into an atmospheric swirl of broken beats and ambient textures. "Eastman" delves into the depths of dub techno, its hypnotic chords and airy soundscapes creating an otherworldly atmosphere. "Winter Light," showcases Lam's mastery of minimalism. Field recordings of natural sounds, sparse guitar plucks, and evocative imagery paint a stark but beautiful soundscape that lingers long after the music has faded. "Tiffen" closes the album on a serene note, its gentle island rhythms and floaty textures inviting listeners to relax and unwind.
Overall, Close-Up is a testament to Braulio Lam's boundless creativity and artistry. Its unique fusion of musical styles, experimental sonic textures, and evocative imagery makes it an immersive and captivating listening experience that transports listeners to a realm where the senses intertwine.

Dive into the abyss with Swedish Stillborn's latest masterpiece: "Netherworlds".

Following the monumental success of their previous album "Nocturnals", the band unleashes an even darker opus that pays homage to their cult classic "Necrospirituals" while carving out new realms of sonic exploration. With "Netherworlds", Stillborn propels their distinctive sound to new heights, crafting songs that are both hauntingly beautiful and crushingly heavy.

Experience the chilling atmospheres and gripping melodies as Stillborn takes you on a journey through the depths of the unknown. The production on "Netherworlds" has a sharper edge and more refined, ensuring that every riff, every chord, resonates with bone-shaking clarity.

Prepare to be mesmerized by the sinister allure of "Netherworlds". Embrace the darkness and join Stillborn on their relentless quest to redefine gothic metal. Don't miss out on this monumental release that will leave an indelible mark on the genre.

Sound Like: Paradise Lost, Type O Negative

Dive into the abyss with Swedish Stillborn's latest masterpiece: "Netherworlds".

Following the monumental success of their previous album "Nocturnals", the band unleashes an even darker opus that pays homage to their cult classic "Necrospirituals" while carving out new realms of sonic exploration. With "Netherworlds", Stillborn propels their distinctive sound to new heights, crafting songs that are both hauntingly beautiful and crushingly heavy.

Experience the chilling atmospheres and gripping melodies as Stillborn takes you on a journey through the depths of the unknown. The production on "Netherworlds" has a sharper edge and more refined, ensuring that every riff, every chord, resonates with bone-shaking clarity.

Prepare to be mesmerized by the sinister allure of "Netherworlds". Embrace the darkness and join Stillborn on their relentless quest to redefine gothic metal. Don't miss out on this monumental release that will leave an indelible mark on the genre.

Sound Like: Paradise Lost, Type O Negative

Limited edition "Coke Bottle Cloud" color vinyl with etched b-side. Australian duo Armlock make music for having your head in the clouds. On new album Seashell Angel Lucky Charm, Simon Lam and Hamish Mitchell bring you on a steady ascension through compressed and heavenly sonic realms. The band's second proper release, and first for Run For Cover Records, showcases the songwriters' experimental electronic roots through an indie rock lens. Free from distortion or overindulgence, Seashell Angel Lucky Charm is a collection of consistent rhythms decorated with clean guitar tones and eccentricities. Through playful layers of vocal harmony and minimal arrangements, Armlock capture the inventive and uncomplicated essence of Pinback or Alex G. Self-described as "indie rock with a touch of spirituality and emo", Armlock's journey into a higher realm is seeped with the looming confusion that comes with exploring the unknown. With an introverted demeanor, Armlock explores the human desire to find guidance in a world much bigger than its people. Every sound on Seashell Angel Lucky Charm feels precise and intentional, making the anthemic choruses on tracks like "Fear" and "El Oh Ve Ee'' feel expertly placed and pop-oriented. These two songs show Armlock's savvy with harmony as they use octaves of angelic sounds to stretch a simple one-word chorus until it soars with meaning. Unlike most indie rockers, Armlock use guitar as a tool in their belt rather than a vessel for songwriting. Where their 2021 EP Trust set foundations in downtempo acoustic guitar, Lam and Mitchell's evolved songwriting is a testament to where an electric guitar can amplify a song's groove, or usher in sonic space.

Pledging to Keep It Alive with her debut album in 2022 (In The Red), Liz Lamere doubles down with her latest full-length second album, One Never Knows, released on In The Red. Dedicated to her late partner Alan Vega, with whom she collaborated on his solo works for over three decades, Lamere’s minimalist approach to creating music is clearly in line with the Vega aesthetic that she helped develop with him during countless experimental hours in the studio since the late ’80s. Lamere teamed up again with her and Vega’s son Dante Vega Lamere in their Dujang Prang NYC home studio surrounded by the Suicide singer’s spectacular light sculptures, co-producer Jared Artaud, and mixing and mastering engineers Ted Young and Josh Bonati. Vega had always encouraged Lamere to create her own music. After he passed away, she began writing as a form of catharsis which became the inspirational bedrock for her solo music. Lamere said, “At the end of Alan’s life, he was using the expression ‘one never knows’ to underscore that we don’t know how much time we have in this realm or where this journey will lead us. It was a phrase that had resonated so much for me. Alan taught me to go bravely into the unknown; to be fully present in the moment and deeply explore what is already here.”

Antoni Maiovvi Has Established a Distinguished Career Spanning 15 Years, Boasting an Extensive Discography Featured on Labels Including Tusk Wax, Vivod, Omnidisc, Giallo Disco, Italo Moderni, and Bordello a Parigi. Profoundly Experienced in Music Production, He Channels the Enigmatic Facets of Disco, Synthesizer-Driven Beats, and the Captivating Allure of Italo Disco, Creating a Sound Steeped in Vintage Analog Essence. His Latest Ep Represents a Masterful Fusion of Diverse Influences. We Extend a Warm Welcome as He Returns to Our Specialized Sub-Label, Cosmic Club, Tailored for This Genre. His Work Is Undeniably Destined to Become a Future Classic, a Testament to His Auditory Craftsmanship. the Tracks on This Ep Offer a Captivating Journey Through a Diverse Spectrum of Electronic Music Styles. on the A-Side, "Lucidario" Introduces Us to a Meticulously Crafted Blend of Moroder-Esque Soundscapes, Offering a Profoundly Cinematic Experience. Following This, "Cenotaph" Presents a Beguiling Mix of Pop Sensibilities, Echoing the Spirit of Legowelt. Closing the A-Side, "Cyberia" Enigmatically Concludes This Part of the Record With Its Electronic Allure and Sonic Intrigue. on the B-Side, We're Met With the Remarkable "Ghosted Again," an Explosive Dark Italo-Disco Gem With Undeniable Dancefloor Appeal. "Levitation Technique" Continues the Sonic Journey, Delving Into Ethereal Realms of Electronic Music, and "Today Is Yes" Provides a Fulfilling Conclusion to the Ep. Each Track Is a Unique Sonic Exploration, Showcasing the Artist's Ability to Weave Diverse Influences Into a Coherent and Engaging Musical Journey. Antoni Maiovvi's Musical Universe Harmoniously Resonates With the Enigmatic Gesloten Cirkel and the Enchanting "Gesamtkunstwerk" by Dopplereffekt, Solidifying His Status as a Future Classic in the Making....

Circling guitar lines; the rise of fall of delicate bass; deep, breathy horns: sonic elements that exist in a state of slow, perpetual motion, like ideas sprouting from some kind of cognitive compost. With wonder and charm, G. S. Schray's new solo album, Whispered Something Good, evokes a realm of new growth while offering a fitting soundtrack for its exploration, as if tailor made for both the daydreamer and silly adventurer.


We start in the darkness of "Unlit Center" with elliptical phrases of jazz guitar. A conversation between double bass, synthesiser, and piano plays out on "In Tears Twice A Page" before we're ushered into the reflective zone of "Another Haunted Mirror." There is synth mist which trumpet cuts through decisively like a shaft of light from the sun: warm and clear. As the album proceeds, firmer rhythms coalesce. On "Prelude for Probably," clattering drums lock into a triumphant groove with horns. And then, to close, the instrumental art-pop of "Gone in Amber," probing not necessarily towards a final destination but another stop-off, one of distant birdsong and the faintest flicker of synth. Intimate and inviting, the act of listening to Whispered Something Good is akin to digging through an imagination. It's a place of subliminal melodies blooming into rhizomatic musical shapes, stray musings coalescing as bolts of inspiration — change fostering yet more change.