Simic dips his toes into icier waters for Accessory's 8th release with a collection of house tracks to send your mind and body into a flurry. The A side exemplifies Simic's tasteful and refreshing approach to minimal, while the B side wades into cooler, krautrock-inspired zones (including a dubbed out remix from Seattle mainstays APT E). Hello Frost !
Introducing "Faith in Another EP” by Christian Kroupa – a captivating blend of raw, hypnotic, big room ready techno. Presented by Bardo Records, a boutique record label from Ljubljana, this vinyl EP marks their very first physical release, showcasing the talent and ambition of the music producer behind it.
With this release, Christian Kroupa who is known for his innovative and insatiable drive, returns to his roots of techno with a refreshing approach. Embracing a non-mainstream sound, he dives deep into the essence of this genre, redefining its boundaries with each track.
"Faith in Another" takes listeners on an immersive journey, showcasing Kroupa's ability to create intricate layers of pulsating beats and electrifying melodies. Each track is carefully crafted to evoke a medley of emotions, inviting all listeners to explore its uncharted sonic territories.
With a dedication to preserving the richness of techno's inviting sound, Faith in Another promises to captivate a broad audience of music lovers. Loose yourself in the pulsating beats and allow the hypnotic melodies to transcend.
Even as a relatively new face on the scene, Boaksi, isn’t a stranger to longer format releases. The budding Zurich based producer made a splash with his first two releases “Under The Pavilion'' and "I Thought It Was Yesterday” which featured remixes from Soela, Louf and Al Zanders. Now he debuts on Seb Wildblood's all my thoughts label with a 4 track emotionally visceral EP titled Keep Movin’.
The title track, "Keep Movin'," takes a dynamic approach, layering creamy pads and impactful percussion with subtle dub techno influences that create a refreshingly deep groove, propelling a carefully positioned vocal sample into the forefront.
“Didn't I", leads with a beautiful, progressive melody that evokes a sense of yearning, and the ever-relatable Romanticism of the club. Delicately triggered chords dance off the wonderfully unpredictable drum patterns, while Boaksi's minimalist vocals add a touch of human emotion.
"Running Out Of Time" takes a more introspective turn, featuring distant, detuned textures that set the stage for a bed of soft, distorted pads. Stripped-back percussion allows the climbing arpeggios to take centre stage, building to a cleansing break that allows the atmosphereto expand before settling back into a warm, percussive groove.
The EP closes with "Wanna Be With You," another emotionally intelligent piece that showcases Boaksi's
prowess for crafting captivating soundscapes. Elemental drums and breathtaking, climatic chords provide the foundation for a beautifully free-forming synth arpeggio that flutters playfully around an unforgettable vocal hook.
Recorded almost entirely in a single day at the legendary Total Refreshment Centre in London, JOY MACHINE brings together some of the most exciting musicians in London’s new jazz explosion. With features from Alabaster DePlume and trumpeter Jonathon Enser (Nubiyan Twist), vocals from Dizraeli (Worldwide Music Awards Best Album nominee), drums from Ben Brown (Alfa Mist, Mulatu Astatke), bass from uk jazz scene favourite Daisy George, synths from Joseph Costi (Yusef Cat Stevens, Bahla) and saxophone from free jazzer Ronan Perrett.
In the tradition of Miles Davis’s Bitches Brew, the band came to the studio in October 23 with only one pre-written track (the uplifting summer anthem Greek Summer) and once that was recorded, spent the rest of the day improvising wild, explosive music laced with Dizraeli’s rap and spoken word lyricism. The result is JOY MACHINE, a record bursting with urgency, intensity and life, and one that cements Dizraeli’s position as an innovative wordsmith, bringing both personal depth (as in Abigail, a homage to the sister who died before he was born) and fierce political commentary (as in Dear Cousin, a goosebumps-inducing narrative that transports the listener aboard the boat Adriana carrying refugees across the Mediterranean, which sank in June 2023 drowning 500 people, and then confronts a very English bigot in the second verse).
2024 Repress
Chontane returns to Mutual Rytm with a more raw and aggressive sound than before across six powerful new tracks on his latest EP, 'Permanent'.
Berlin-based Ukrainian DJ/producer Chontane has had a busy twelve months. Capped off by recently launching his own new TANE label, the exciting talent has been working hard to reinvent and refresh his sound in the studio. Mastering new techniques to push things to the next level, this EP and return to SHDW & Obscure Shape's Mutual Rytm proves he has succeeded and then some. Where previous works on the likes of ARTS and Rekids were full and more melodic, here he has restricted himself and gone for a more visceral sound. Developed and built in all new ways with an innovative approach to sound design and arrangement, the tracks on the package showcase a more serious and harder-hitting side to his sound as he unveils his impactful 'Permanent' EP.
Opener 'Graze' has a monstrous feel to it, with ghoulish synth loops and industrial textures all coming on strong and heavy. As it bangs along, incendiary hi-hats and lithe pads all bring extra weight and detail. 'Cumaru' is a highpaced techno workout with a frenzy of synths and percussion, all making for dense layers of heavily textured sound. 'Schima' brings some big techno bounce in the drums and more hurried, rusty synth loops that lock you into the darkness. Showing yet another side, 'Lauan' is a little more paired back with pounding tribal grooves and bright synths, bringing relentless yet funk-fuelled intensity. 'Vevis' is the most melodic of the lot - a heavy track but with subtle optimism in the rising background synths that will surely get hands in the air.
Last of all is digital bonus 'Makore', a cauldron of intensity with scraping hits and relentless drums, vastly oversized hi-hats and slamming bass. This high-impact, beautifully brutal yet groove-heavy techno takes Chontane's sound into new realms, and delivers an impressive return on a label continuing to push the genre forward.
Our eighth chapter of Small Great Things is introduced by our resident, David Silver. The limited vinyl and digital release, titled the 'My Japanese Friend EP,' features four exquisite original tracks. This EP seamlessly blends deep and classic house vibes with contemporary beats, ensuring a refreshing dance floor experience.
Starting with the A1 side, 'Trademark' initiates the journey with a solid house groove complemented by stabs and a robust bassline. Transitioning to the A2 track, the title piece 'My Japanese Friend' assumes center stage with its infectious groovy bassline, piano chords, and captivating drums, enveloped by ambient jazzy melodies.
Turning over to the B side, we encounter two more enticing house compositions. On B1, David's 'U Move' delivers a fresh, dance floor-ready cut, featuring vocals and guitars. B2 takes the spotlight with 'Peace & Low,' a finely crafted deep house gem.
black vinyl[11,72 €]
Pure Dub techno driven 5 tracker. Hydergine is back on Ranges with a new sonic journey that delves deep into dub techno while infusing it with innovative broken beat structures.
The EP showcases the artists signature style in a captivating and refreshing way. Four tracks take the listener on a diverse and evocative journey, ranging from futuristic and dark sci-fi vibes to immersive and emotionally resonant soundscapes, with a rich tapestry of sonic elements that engage the mind and stimulate the senses.
Resoe provides a reinterpretation of “Perception” that reveals new layers of complexity and emotion. A captivating exploration that results in a hypnotic and addictive masterpiece, further enriching the overall package.
DJ Support: Enzo Siragusa, Wodda, Make A Dance, Chris Stussy, Seb Zito
We're thrilled to announce the latest release from Chris Gialanze, 'Gunna Bee' – a track that has already set dance floors alight and is poised to become the anthem of the year. This standout release, tested and celebrated across multiple venues, festivals & showcases. Accompanying 'Gunna Bee' is ‘So Criminal’ & ‘Tough Cloud’ to complete the EP, striking the perfect balance between Downtempo and Breakbeat vibes. Each song is a testament to Chris's versatility and craftsmanship, promising an auditory journey that's as refreshing as it is exhilarating.
After a successful career in the corporate world, marketing guru and full-time mom Cristina has taken a bold step into the music scene, inspired by the minimal grooves emanating from Romania.
Her Satya debut EP, titled "Plan B," showcases a unique and tasteful fusion of drum-based dance floor beats and hypnotic melodies.
Growing up composing on the piano and studying harmony, Cristina's musical roots strongly influence her creative process, resulting in tracks that offer a perfect balance between rhythm and musicality. With a focus on key themes such as family, music, and life philosophy, "Plan B" is a strong musical package filled with intention.
Her collaboration with friend and fellow artist Francesco Mami - "Les Filles” - a peak-time jam dedicated to their respective daughters - adds spice to the already flavorsome solo concoctions.
Sepp’s remix of the title track, infused with his Romanian and Macedonian folk roots, rounds the EP in a wonderfully playful manner.
Scheduled for release on May 17, 2024, "Plan B" is poised to make waves and gain attention from house music connoisseurs! Cristina's transition from the corporate world to the dance floor promises a refreshing and dynamic addition to the ever-evolving music landscape.
An adventurous percussion playground Trio inclassable qui explore les rythmes et les sons, Spëcht a ouvert un terrain de jeu singulier autour des percussions en donnant une nouvelle dimension à des instruments acoustiques.
Darbuka, gongs, kalimbas, riqq, doholla, bendirs,... sont à la base de leur univers percussif et mélodique qui oscille entre sons organiques et textures atmosphériques, paysages sonores aux accents de transe et grooves entraînants.
Après la sortie du premier EP "Dawn" sous le nom de groupe "Hands in Motion” », letrio sort « Triptyques » et propose une expérience évolutive en trois temps progressifs.
“The trio includes three of the top percussionists in Belgium Simon Leleux, Robbe Kieckens, Célestin Massot their music is a rich world of stimulating transglobal rhythms and transfixing sounds” World Music Central It's an exciting time for music lovers and fans of innovative sounds, as the band formerly known as 'Hands in Motion' makes a refreshing re-entry into the music world under a new name: Spëcht. With their latest album, 'Triptyques', Spëcht promises an immersive listening experience that retains the deep-rooted essence of the band while exploring new musical horizons.
After a period of artistic development and introspection, Spëcht has decided that the name change is a natural step in their musical journey. The name 'Spëcht' not only reflects their renewed focus and energy but also their commitment to creating music that is both powerful and sophisticated, just like the bird of the same name.
Triptyques' is an album composed of three parts, each highlighting a unique aspect of the band. This conceptual masterpiece takes the listener on a journey through various musical landscapes, from melodic harmonies and huge percussion elements with complex rhythms to bold experimental sounds. Each 'triptych' stands alone as an individual work of art, yet together they form a cohesive and captivating story.
With 'Triptyques', Spëcht demonstrates a maturity and depth in their musical expression that will surprise and charm both loyal fans and new listeners.
With his sensational full length debut, now well and truly bedded in - Duncan now treats us to the first of two, super special ‘Return of The Strobelight Kid’ - Remix EPs.
Taking pride and place, as the sole rework on side A, is Mr. G’s beastly ‘Changing Timez’ dub of ‘Rise Above’. A track full of poise, playful experimentalism and sub-licked attitude - it’s one that positively writhes in its own, wonderfully succulent, analogue filth.
Then, kicking off Side B proceedings and taking on album closer - ‘The Future Of Love’ - we have the refreshingly singular, duo-driven talents of Bodhi; who, full of confidence and clarity of vision - boldly choose to take the delicate, soul-quenching OG into unexpectedly fierce, propulsive and heads down Techno territory… a roll of the dice mind, that pays dividends and then some.
And finally - wrapping up Side B on this first ‘Return Of The Strobelight Kid’, remix EP - is Duncan himself…who here we see re-mould, ‘Quantum Particles Falling From Space’, into an even more incisive, heavily snarled and intensely rifling slice of forward-thinking Jungle-meets-Techno weaponry.
After his first album on BLESSYOU "Turquoise", Mogwaa aka Seungyoung Lee from Seoul is back with another stellar contribution this time re-visiting his earlier days of musical appreciation in Reggae music.
This album is another entirely instrumental work with 8 tracks, effortlessly displaying his confidence in the studio when it comes to dreamy dubbed out ambient sounds intertwined with heavy digi/stepper and even dancehall influences.
A refreshing treat to the ear when it comes to contemporary productions as Mogwaa approaches the Jamaican genre with a refined aesthetic of his own. From Korea with much craft and dedication for the music, a pleasure to have him back. Mastered at Manmade mastering.
Aphrose reveals her sophomore album, 'Roses,' a captivating amalgamation of Neo-Soul and R&B, delving into the wellspring of ancestral strength and love.
Hailing from Toronto, Canada, Aphrose, also known as Joanna Mohammed, unveils her sophomore album, establishing her as one of Toronto's best-kept musical treasures. Known for her commanding vocal prowess within her hometown, this gifted songwriter and vocalist is rapidly garnering global acclaim and accolades from both fans and music critics alike. Signed to independent Soul label LRK Records, 'Roses' remains firmly rooted in Aphrose's signature style characterized by resounding R&B vocals. However, it also embraces a softer, more introspective aura that brilliantly showcases her remarkable versatility in navigating diverse genres, moods, and musical approaches with remarkable finesse.
This album offers a little something for everyone, catering to enthusiasts of Neo-soul, traditional Soul, Hip Hop, and R&B. Produced by her longtime friends/collaborators at SafeSpaceship Music (Scott McCannell, Chino De Villa, Ben Macdonald), the album serves as a compelling testament to the collective creativity of Aphrose and this exceptional production trio, delivering a kaleidoscope of soundscapes, textures, rhythms, and grooves. 'Roses' weaves together both lighthearted and profound elements as Aphrose explores her life journey, delving into her familial past and present, grappling with the challenges of new motherhood, and contemplating her relationships with herself, her partner, and her friends. Across the 35-minute LP, Aphrose draws inspiration from Neo-soul icons like Jill Scott and Erykah Badu, pays homage to Soul legends such as Aretha Franklin and MJ, and infuses contemporary R&B influences from artists like Frank Ocean, SiR, and SZA. The result is a sound that distinctly bears the 'Aphrose sound,' reflecting her deep admiration for her inspirations while imparting a refreshing twist to familiar genres.
The album commences with its title track, 'Roses,' which was released as a single on August 25th. This song sets the stage, invoking the strength of Aphrose's ancestors, particularly her late Grandmother Rose. Following suit is 'YaYa,' also released as a single on July 7th. This buoyant dance track whisks listeners back to the disco era of the late 70s and early 80s. The album's third track, 'Heavenly Father,' offers a brief interlude featuring a recording of Aphrose's Grandmother Rose engaged in prayer, setting the tone for the subsequent track, 'In The Time Of Sorrow.' This contemplative, chill piece captures Aphrose's musings on navigating a world often shrouded in fakery, while craving authenticity. 'Honey (Don't) Come Back' seamlessly transitions between two distinct musical personalities, commencing with a deep, almost Trap-like bass/drum beat before transforming into a spirited Funk/Soul jam—an anthem of empowerment encouraging the listener to leave a situationship that is no longer working. 'What You Don't See' strips the production down to its core, as Aphrose and guitarist/co-writer Heather Crawford craft an intimate ode to a friendship's sad ending.
The B-side opens with the evocative 'Weapons,' featuring a five-person choir including LRK label-mate Claire Davis, Nevon Sinclair (Daniel Caesar and LOONY), Kyla Charter (Aysanabee and Alessia Cara), Lydia Persaud, and Marla Walters. The track is adorned with a stirring string arrangement courtesy of Jessica Deutsch. 'Chop The Cake' acts as a breather, interlude-style, easing the intensity. 'Soft Nuclear' channels the spirit of the early 2000s R&B movement, bearing traces of influence from Lucy Pearl. 'Good Love,' released as the first single off this body of work on May 19th, transports listeners to the 70s with its soulful resonance, drawing inspiration from the likes of Michael Jackson and Teddy Pendergrass. 'Higher' stands as Aphrose's tribute to Prince, capturing the essence of his music within its hook and production. The album's culmination arrives with 'ZAG,' an acronym derived from Aphrose's daughter's name, commencing with the sound of her daughter's heartbeat in-utero from a sonogram taken when Aphrose was pregnant. This heartfelt composition serves as a dedication to her daughter and all parents navigating the rollercoaster of parenthood, emphasizing the imperative of nurturing love to shape the future.
'Roses' stands as Aphrose's homage to her history—her Grandma Rose and the ancestral trailblazers who paved her path to the present life she enjoys; her current experiences—her self-discovery, her relationships with her partner and friends; and her aspirations for the future—her daughter and the generations to come. This album crystallizes these temporal dimensions, prompting introspection, celebration, laughter, and tears. 'Roses' is a musical odyssey that scrutinizes the multifaceted beauty of existence, inviting listeners to partake in this thing called life.
The radio world has taken notice of Aphrose's talent, with national Radio Capital's Italy Massimo Oldani spinning her latest single "YaYa" for the entire month of July on his show "Vibe." And both singles getting to number 10 in the UK soul chart.Additionally, Aphrose has received national radio play on renowned stations such as BBC in the UK, RTVE in Spain, and Radio France FIP.
Aphrose has also made CBC's Top 100 finalist list for their Searchlight competition.
Huey Morgan played "YaYa" the second track off the album on his BBC radio six show
The second vinyl release by young, interdisciplinary Dresden label fragmented: is called fragmented:borders (FRAG:002) and features three original productions by fragmented: resident RANDOM DATA accompanied by a remix from WARNING resident Mars Leder. It is composed of experimental breakbeats defined by dubby bass and eclectic drum patterns infused with oriental rhythmic elements, creating a sonically unique atmosphere. The remix by Mars Leder is a dreamy and playful house re-interpretation of the original, which skillfully opens up new perspectives on its various elements by embedding them in a refreshingly uplifting soundscape.
The cover artwork by Lydia Henkel deals with the haptics of memory. Traces of working in the ransacked material are emblematic of gestures of individuals who have to fight their way through water, authorities, everyday life, in order to find a foothold and to be allowed to arrive. The often invisible struggles of those who must fight for perception and treatment as individuals and not as the cause of problems are reflected in the vase and remembered silently and angrily.
A central part of this release is the cooperation with political association “Mission Lifeline'' which mainly focuses on sea rescue missions in the Mediterranean. By drawing attention to their work on the vinyl cover and inner sleeve print, fragmented: aims to provide a platform for this vital cause. To further support their efforts, 50% of the proceeds from this release will be donated to Mission Lifeline.
Grammy nominated DJ and production mastermind Paul Woolford steps up to deliver a timeless house reworking of Gabriels 'Angels & Queens'.
The title track from the trio's debut album (part 1) that took 2022 by storm. Endeared by the masses and critically acclaimed Gabriels set out a refreshing new take on soul that the world was subconsciously crying out for - an antidote to over produced pop - providing a deeper, more meaningful and heartfelt cause at its centre.
Tantalising from the outset, Woolford steps up to the plate with a hard-hitting remix that drives in straight to your centre. Punchy TR-909 drums combine with thundering bass tones and his archetypal, rising piano hooks. A combination that brings Jacob Lusk's inimitable vocals to new heights.
After a feverish reception to Paul's Instagram tease of the track, we've been itching to release this remix into the wild. It's a big one, don't miss it!
'Three supremely talented artists simply excelling at what they do' - Paul Woolford
Gerd Janson - 'Gabriels!!! - Total madness at Panorama Bar. Like it was made for the room'
DJ Feedback:
Prins Thomas – I’m melting….Amazing
Groove Armada – Love this!
Gorgon City - yessss
Fred P - Dope!!!!
Marco Faraone - Super remix!!!
Sasha – Quality
Bakermat – tasty
Mano Le Tough – Ace
Hector Romero - Gabriels have quickly become my fav new artist. Paul!! You nailed it. Great collaboration.
Horse Meat Disco – Pretty big remix!
Gerd Janson – MEGA
The debut release from Sofia Grant delves into the topic of environmentalism, a subject close to her heart and a topic foremost in the minds of many. With smoky vocals and accompanied by spectacular musicianship from the likes of Poppy Daniels, Ernesto Marichales, Lorenz Osengor Okello, Sofia has created a five track EP that introduces a noteworthy talent to the Jazz re:freshed catalogue. In keeping with her values, Sofia specifically requested that the physical format be pressed on eco-friendly vinyl which produces a uniquely coloured product that utilises recycled materials and offsets carbon emissions created in its manufacture....
Adinda Dwimadasari and Dea Barandana take you on another dancefloor oriented voyage (to the Moon?) of originally written and produced contemporary disco wellness. Precious Bloom continues to carve out a sound of their own with 4 beautifully executed tracks. A selection of hand picked instrumentalists in addition to Dea's multi-instrumental studio prowess, the scene is set for Adinda's vocals to unravel in dreamy cosmic nuances from mysterious soft spoken word style voices to romantically sung lyrics in astrophysics. Truly refreshing in today's dance floor sound dominated by synthetic/digital convenience. Recorded in Jakarta and mastered in Berlin.
Club U Nite Records presents 'Purple Kush': A Captivating Journey through Energetic House and Reggae Dub Fusion
Named after the renowned cannabis strain, 'Purple Kush' exudes a captivating blend of energetic house tracks and relaxing reggae dub elements.
On the A-side, prepare to be enchanted by the groove of 'Let The Spirit Flow.' This track's driving beats, pulsating rhythms, and deep house organ theme create an irresistible dancefloor anthem that will elevate the energy of any party.
Continuing the sonic journey on the A-side, 'La Bahia' takes us back to the roots of old-school house music. With its addictive organ riff and swing beat, this song instantly transports listeners to a nostalgia-laden dancefloor where the vibe is contagious.
Flipping the record to the B-side, 'Make Your Mind Up' keeps the momentum going with its pumping beats and soulful vocal samples. This track demands to be heard on a club's sound system, as it kickstarts an infectious dance atmosphere that will keep party-goers moving until the early hours.
Rounding off the vinyl, 'Purple Kush Theme' takes us on a mellow yet captivating journey. Seamlessly blending house vocal samples with the laid-back vibes of reggae dub, this track presents a refreshing fusion that invites listeners to let loose and unwind.
We’re starved for two-sided 12”s in the world of ambient music, but Chris Madak aka. Bee Mask has refreshingly graced us with one this week.
It should be said that there’s Skee Mask and then there’s Bee Mask; the latter is far more unsung, undeservingly so. Madak’s music is abstract and cerebral enough to have lent him credo enough to have released on the likes of Weird Forest, Spectrum Spools and Room40.
But this latest reissue, ‘Versailles Is Not Too Large Or Infinity Too Long’, hears him plunge the aethereal heights for the US label Unifactor. Originally released on cassette on Chondritic Sound in 2008, these pieces deserve the renewed attention and the fresh laying to wax, since they’re not “regular ole” ambient cuts in the slightest.
Unafraid of indulging the high end freqs, Bee Mask fleshes out a mood of uncertain, urgent bliss - sizzling, crunching and soaring the drone, as if its maker were a modern Icarus flying too close to the sun.
8 years almost to the day after releasing his unique re-interpretation album of his field recordings made in the late 90's in Tanzania, Kink Gong is back with another volume of bushmen madness. Here’s what Kink Gong aka Laurent Jean-neau has to say about his end of millennium trip:
‘’My experience in Tanzania is now over 20 years and most of the so called remix was started in Tanzania and left un-finished, then eventually retouched in Vienna, Paris, Shanghai, Kunming, Dali or Vientiane. 20 years later I searched my Tanzanian files and rediscovered unfinished tracks which are being now refreshed on this new record.
Back to the early days of the XXI century, when I lost my health trying to survive with the HADZAs, the last bushmen in northern Tanzania. In 1999 James Stephenson from NYC invited me to join his Hadzas friends. I would leave the bush to rest in a place with enough food and electricity and start to edit, loop and work on the original recordings, to trans-form them into organic abstract compositions, the only instrument I had recorded a lot with the Hadzas was the malimba and I bought different malimbas in Arusha to take back with me to Europe, I used either the original record-ings or me playing malimbas on some tracks and applied some electronic treatment to it, at that time I used Roland synths for some tracks.
The original recordings are related to scenes at night by the fire with the Hadzas, but also 3 different types of celebra-tions, Epeme Men was recorded on a moonless night with men and women singing and dancing in complete dark-ness in Mangola, an Hadza camp. Irawk Drum Under the Rain was recorded during daytime at a Multi ethnic gathering at the Franciscan Spanish catholic mission with a crowd dancing and singing under heavy rain while an IRAWK large (and wet) drum was being played, Northern Tanzania. Makonde Island was recorded in southern Tanzania at the boarder with Mozambique and is a pure scene of trance taking place on an island where the MAKONDE fishermen off the coast of Mtwara, get wild, hitting plastic containers for the sound, drunk and stoned men and women are hysterical-ly jumping and falling on each other, ending up with a few wounded.
Once again I'm responsible for this act of multicultural sabotage, but don’t forget that you can always listen to the origi-nal recordings on the Kink Gong recs collection. ‘’
Laurent Jeanneau, Berlin 2023
