2025 Repress
2019 is mule musiq’s 15 years anniversary. we’re going to release twelve 12inchs with our friend artists and stefan marx make the collectable artwork. last release of the series is swedish house maffia axel boman.
first track,”chestnut hearts” is super emotional no beat club banger,axel played at his latest boiler room,”slave to the vibe” is slow mo cosmic tune,”paid by the rhythm” is axel’s signature floating house,”copacabana dub” is epic brazilian affair deep house anthem, “don’t bug me” is dubby rasta tune,”konoba boba” reminds little bit early border community sound.
thank you so much for supporting us 15 years!
Buscar:ste
‘One of the finest jazz guitarists of her generation, Halvorson is possessed of a questing, restless spirit.’ – Jazzwise
‘With an album of string quartet music as strong as this one, she is worthy of as much renown in the classical field as she holds in the jazz community.’ – New York Times
‘One of America’s finest guitarists. Halvorson’s musicianship is open-minded, demanding and richly engaging.’ – Uncut
Nonesuch Records releases Cloudward by Brooklyn-based guitarist, composer, and MacArthur fellow Mary Halvorson on January 19. The album features eight new compositions by Halvorson, performed with her sextet Amaryllis, the improvisatory band that performed on her critically praised 2022 albums Amaryllis and Belladonna comprising Halvorson, Patricia Brennan (vibraphone), Nick Dunston (bass), Tomas Fujiwara (drums), Jacob Garchik (trombone), and Adam O’Farrill (trumpet). Labelmate Laurie Anderson also is featured on the album track ‘Incarnadine’. Halvorson and Amaryllis will tour internationally following the release of the new album, including January dates in Europe, as well as at the Big Ears Festival as part of Nonesuch’s 60th anniversary celebration.
Halvorson says, “All of the music on Amaryllis was written in 2020, during the thick of the pandemic, in one of the more bizarre time periods I’ve experienced in my life. While composing for Amaryllis, I expanded upon certain musical concepts I’d developed in my life up until that point—the ones that felt fruitful—and left others behind, hitting the reset button and attempting to build from scratch. Two years later, after the release of the first album, I was still writing music for Amaryllis.
“All the music on Cloudward was written in 2022, mostly in the fall and winter, when things started moving forward. Life felt like a creaky machine starting up again,” she continues. “Air travel, however chaotic, had resumed, and we were once again cloudward. Performances and tours and recordings were happening after a long hiatus and with a renewed sense of gratitude. This band, for me, was quite simply working, both musically and personally, and the main thing I felt while writing the music was optimism.”
The Guardian said Halvorson’s 2022 double release “shows how far this single-minded original has come, and affords a glimpse of how far she may go. Both sessions confirm how years of jaggedly lyrical solo and ensemble improvising and a quirkily subversive affection for mainstream music have now nurtured a composer of unpredictable but warmly expressive character… These are new landmarks in Halvorson’s already inimitable discography.” Pitchfork said, “Amaryllis and Belladonna are distinct statements; one could hear either album on its own without a sense that something is missing. But they are most powerful when taken together, like a landscape and its reflection in rippling water.”
Halvorson has released a series of critically acclaimed albums, from Dragon’s Head (2008), her trio debut featuring bassist John Hébert and drummer Ches Smith, expanding to a quintet with trumpeter Jonathan Finlayson and alto saxophonist Jon Irabagon on Saturn Sings (2010) and Bending Bridges (2012), a septet with tenor saxophonist Ingrid Laubrock and trombonist Jacob Garchik on Illusionary Sea (2014), and finally an octet with pedal steel guitarist Susan Alcorn on Away With You (2016). She also released the solo recording Meltframe (2015), and most recently debuted Code Girl (2018, 2020), a new ensemble featuring vocalist Amirtha Kidambi (singing Halvorson’s own lyrics), trumpeter Adam O’Farrill, saxophonist and vocalist María Grand, bassist Michael Formanek, and drummer Tomas Fujiwara.
One of New York City’s most in-demand guitarists, over the past decade Halvorson has worked with such diverse musicians as Tim Berne, Anthony Braxton, Taylor Ho Bynum, John Dieterich, Trevor Dunn, Bill Frisell, Ingrid Laubrock, Jason Moran, Joe Morris, Tom Rainey, Jessica Pavone, Tomeka Reid, Marc Ribot, and John Zorn. She is also part of several collaborative projects, most notably the longstanding trio Thumbscrew with Michael Formanek on bass and Tomas Fujiwara on drums.
The 1980s were a golden era for Mike Mareen and his label, Night’n’Day Records. In just a few short years, Mareen carved out a stellar reputation on the German electronic dance music scene, excelling both as a groundbreaking artist and a hit-making producer. His tracks, alongside those he produced for other artists, dominated the charts and filled DJ crates across Europe. One of the standout talents he nurtured was Luisa, a singer from Bad Oeynhausen, who recorded “Parole” under Mareen’s guidance. With its Italian title and lyrics penned by Italian songwriter Rocco Caruso, the track exuded a breezy, summery vibe. While it didn’t achieve massive chart success at the time, “Parole” became a staple in DJ sets across the Eastern Bloc, quietly winning fans with its airy charm.
Over the years, the track’s cult following grew – and now, there’s even more reason to celebrate. Recently unearthed session tapes from Night’n’Day Records have revealed previously unheard versions of “Parole.” These rare gems, along with the original release and a special DJ edit, are now part of a brand-new reissue, fresh and ready to spin for a new generation. Get ready to rediscover the magic of “Parole” – a timeless piece of ’80s nostalgia brought back to life!
La Pointe debut on Damian Lazarus’ Secret Teachings with ‘Umbra’, featuring remixes from Nathan Fake and Jonny Rock. The experimental label opens its 2025 schedule on 24th January with the Geneva-based trio’s warping original backed by a pair of late-hours remixes from two of the best in the scene.
Emerging from a confluence of rave culture and artistic mastery, La Pointe make an impressive label debut on Damian Lazarus’ Secret Teachings imprint with the enigmatic ‘Umbra’. The release, set for 24th January, is accompanied by stellar remixes from revered producer Nathan Fake and the ever-versatile Jonny Rock, delivering a sonic journey that transcends the ordinary. La Pointe, a trio formed by Geneva-based techno pioneers Crowdpleaser and Entlet alongside New York City’s Jonny Sender, represents a fusion of cultural and musical legacies. Rooted in the dynamic after-hours scenes of Geneva and New York’s underground club culture, the trio creates music that is both innovative and steeped in tradition. Their studio, located in an old factory by the meeting point of the Rhone and Arve rivers, lends its name—and its industrial inspiration—to their project.
The original mix of ‘Umbra’ is a hypnotic exploration of light and shadow, blending atmospheric melodies with deep, pulsating rhythms—a testament to their ability to craft soundscapes that resonate emotionally and physically. Nathan Fake’s remix ventures into intricate, textural layers, marrying ethereal tones with electronic intensity. Jonny Rock injects a raw, off-kilter groove and late-hours energy into his reinterpretation, blending his eclectic influences from disco, funk, house, and beyond. The genesis of La Pointe is as captivating as its sound. Crowdpleaser and Entlet are celebrated architects of Geneva’s rave scene, running the legendary after-hours party The Shark for over a decade and hosting luminaries like Alexander Robotnik, Boo Williams, and Sonja Moonear. Jonny Sender, a stalwart of New York’s downtown music revolution in the 80s to 00s and bass player of post-punk band KONK, brought his unique perspective honed in venues like Mudd Club to the trio when he moved to France. This debut appearance on Secret Teachings is not just a collection of influences but a narrative woven from decades of underground culture and musical exploration - making it a perfect fit for Lazarus’ label as he continues to champion boundary-pushing artistry, curveball signings and inspired remix curation.
LP on blue coloured vinyl in printed inner sleeve.This is country as it was meant to be: raw and honest. Not perfect-and it doesn't need to be. The beauty lies in the off-note, the stumbling rhythm, the simplicity of three chords that tell you everything you need to know.
The West is crumbling. It's values, once unshakable, have buckled under the weight of a world spinning ever faster and growing ever more hollow. Revival Of The West, Blue Gene's debut album, is his exploration of this collective malaise-a call to rediscover meaning in a world that has grown estranged from itself.
On his debut, Blue Gene gives voice to the contemporary themes that keep him awake at night: consumer hysteria, the numbing grip of social media, the solace found at the bottom of a bottle, the crushing weight of taxes, and the paralyzing complexity of a world where humanity seems to have been reduced to a cog in the machine. Yet, despite all the despair, his songs always carry a spark of hope: after the fall, you can rise again. These stories are wrapped in the sound of classic country music-music about life as it truly is: bent, battered, but full of resilience.
This is country as it was meant to be: raw and honest. Not perfect-and it doesn't need to be. The beauty lies in the off-note, the stumbling rhythm, the simplicity of three chords that tell you everything you need to know. Blue Gene's country music is the song of a man wrestling with life and himself, infused with humor, sharp lyrics, and anecdotal musical moments. Because sometimes, we just need to remember to laugh. In short, it's a mirror showing us our demons, but also a reassurance that teaches us how to live with them.
And yet, the question lingers: who is Blue Gene? Is he just a country singer putting strugglesto music? Or is he a modern Robin Hood in cowboy boots, a voice trying to do justice to lost ideals? Blue Gene exists in the grey area where music and meaning meet-and it's precisely there that he finds his strength.
Revival Of The West is no nostalgic longing for a bygone era. It's an invitation to reinvent the values we've lost. It urges us to return to a place where life can be honest again-where music doesn't aim to please, but to say something real. Because sometimes, a song is all it takes to make sense of the world around us.
Blue Gene (vocals & rhythm guitar) is joined on Revival Of The West by his loyal band of outlaws: Nathan Ysebaert (lead guitar & vocals), Tijl Van de Casteele (drums & percussion), and Tom Vienne (bass guitar, saxophone & vocals). The record is further enriched by guest appearances from Bart Vervaeck (pedal steel), Nils De Caster (violin, mandolin), Mathijs Steels (piano), Ciska Dhaenens (vocals), and Harry Descamps (vocals). Recorded in spring 2023 by Michiel Renson, mixed by Jan Chantrain and Michiel Renson, and mastered by Uwe Teichert. Produced, composed, and written by Timotheus De Beir.
Revival Of The West will be released on January 24, 2025, via On The Level.
The Dancefloor Records reissues on Emotional Rescue comes in the form a true House classic. Produced and released by the Chicago legend Andrew Komis, It’s You is an original Deep House bomb and an education to those increasingly misusing the term today.
Essentially a cover / updated version of the all-time early House classic in ESP’s Its You, this 1989 update shows how much the scene was progressing in just 3 years with a tougher, heavier and deeper 12” that was all about rocking club sound systems.
Coming out on Komis’ own (Dancefloor subsidiary) Big Shot Records, this might not of been as big as Dionne’s Come Get My Lovin’, but has long been an ‘in the bag’ record for the likes of Derrick Carter and Solar. Just one listen spread across the time-defining “Mixes” and it’s clear why.
The stepping bass of the New York – London Mix was so indicative of the time. As the latter’s ascent as a clubbing capital took hold, ears were pinned to what was emanating from across the seas, especially the clubs of NYC and ‘Windy City’. Trademark Komis bass and hats ride are all here to allow the breathy vocals space to do their magic.
However it is the Free House Mix that really shows where things were at. Skipping hats, electro-meets-Belgian bass and a dark synth line pull the track down before acid touches take the song to a much deeper place and has long been the favourite version for the discerning DJ.
Ending with what was indicative of the time, the title says it all with the NU Style Mix. A drum heavy work out, taking in elements of successful records of the time, we get Break 4 Love percussion arranged around a NYC influenced Konder’s style quick cut-up editing for a more 'freestyle' mix to round out what is simply, an underground bomb and therefore, worthy of what this label has always been about, bringing great records to new ears.
2025 Repress
Wide Yonder’ is a truly remarkable album, offering as much depth and soul as it’s predecessor, yet sounding ultimately fresh and different. Above all, the ten tracks show an artist that’s willing to take risks, find in- spiration in new places and move beyond the sound of his previous album. Trentemøller: ‘Of course I didn’t want to make the same record twice. So the album is for me a logic development from ’The Last Resort’’. Instead he just started to collect new ideas, without thinking too much about the direction the music would take him: ‘The only thing I knew was that I’d want the music to sound more organic and analog.’ Compared to the intimate electronic mood pieces of ‘The Last Resort’, the ten tracks on the new album indeed have a more strange, mystic and dramatic vibe, with a lot of dynamics, distorted, driving twang- guitars, real and electronic drums mixed with haunting synths. With ‚Into The Great Wide Yonder‘ Trentemøller is not only exploring new moody and atmospheric universes, but combines his sense for glorious soundscapes with a firm melodic and tonal touch. The original chord progressions and feel for melodies is fundamental to him, and that‘s also the reason why most of the instruments are played by Trentemøller himself on this album. ‚I like the possibility to be surprised that chords and melodies change into something new. The music that I like most lets the themes and sounds come back in different disguises‘. The Danish multi instrumentalist and producer shows an unexpected talent for finding vocalists that fit the mood of his songs. The first single of the album, the beautifully tender ‘Sycamore Feeling’, featuring Marie Fisker, is a typical highlight. In fact, all the vocal tracks are stunning. Trentemøller chose to collaborate with the English artist Fyfe Dangerfield from UK based Guillemots and Danish singers Solveig Sandnes and Josephine Philip from the debuting Danish indie girlduo Darkness Falls. They all manage to add their own sound and flavour to the album, while their voices blend perfectly with Trentemøller’s atmospheric songs. This is an album that keeps growing for a long time, as every track works its way stealthily under your skin. The sound of ‘Into The Great Wide Yonder’ might be one step ahead of his previous work, but we still easily recognize the hand of Trentemøller, in this inspired collection of songs and atmospheres. The sonic richness, sharp contrasts and daring musical colours are vintage Trentemøller. Into The Great Wide Yonder’ might demand more from the listener than ‘The Last Resort’, as it ended up being quite a dramatic album. This album is more noisy, there’s more happening.‘ But getting to know the tracks definitely is a rewarding experience, as the album will keep growing and growing for a long time to come and its safe to say that Anders Trentemøller has managed to create
- A1: Tiramisu
- A2: Thence I Arrived On A Foreign Shore (Ft Pink Siifu, Stas Thee Boss)
- A3: Movement
- A4: Future Landlords
- A5: I Was At The Fence (Ft Rachel Lime)
- A6: The Mother, The Child & The Magazine
- B1: You Can Go Outside
- B2: It Knows The Bliss Is Treacherous
- B3: Thence I Arrived On A Foreign Shore (Galcher Lustwerk Remix)
- B4: I Was At The Fence (Gum Mp3 Remix)
- B5: It Knows The Bliss Is Treacherous (Ben Hixon Remix)
Bobbyy is a producer, drummer, and DJ based in Los Angeles. Known for his work with Seattle bands sunking and High Pulp, 2024 sees Bobbyy stepping out as a solo artist, working with the likes of Pink Siifu, Hi Tech, Blvck Svm, and more. Bobbyy’s debut album ‘Buckets’ is an homage to his deep love and understanding of music history, incorporating elements of Chicago House a la Larry Heard, alongside raw, sample-based production reminiscent of Madlib or Daedelus, all the while basking in 808’s.
DIG CURATED the infamous four of this EP in an omnivorous fashion, allowing vinyl wizard Louis the 4th to take us on a ride of stylistic adventure between old and new-school techno wickedry.
Olivia Mendez (the curator behind this EP) picked these gems according to the way she would build her sets; each track corresponding to a distinct part of a blazing journey. Each track being a different color on a powerful, vibrant palette, attesting to the versatility of an artist whose emblem is anonymity - remember Detroit? - and reinvention. The man behind the bandana doesn't shy away from paying homage to the old school while at times enveloping us into a computerized sound chaos - classy as it is.
This selection reveals a side of LTF that hasn't been shown before, catching the ears of a great number of peeps, who could easily find their match here.
"Dilatation" is a chugging techno zinger, with a groove that feels minimal yet keeps expanding through punctured breaks and urging synth enveloped into a sustained air- a kind of tool that mounts the energy to near combustible.
"Almost There" decompresses space into a light-weight, energy saver atmosphere, that fleshes out a brand-new compartment in LTF`s music wallet. Threaded through driving rides and a rhythmic zeal, it wobbles gently between sustain and release.
On the flip side, "Kurrikulum Vitae" flexes LTS mechanics, with rascal shifts in a groove that feels simultaneously ancient and totally new, amassing a depth of textures and tones towards a skanking peak.
"999" seals the deal with multilayered distortions enveloped into ghostly undertones and reverbing crunches, half-step of being a techno-artefact and a dazzling sound puzzle, made of a loopy melody edging towards poise.
Words by __ORSHI
Samuel van Dijk steps forward as Multicast Dynamics to present his next full length of mesmerizing deepness on A Walking Contradiction. As ever, when van Dijk puts on his Multicast Dynamics disguise, he abducts his listeners to places where breathtaking soundscapes and pitch black ambience take over. When you are in these imaginary places he creates a compelling story that is both exhilarating and soothing at the same time. Soundtrack for Something That Does Not Exist is nothing less. It's a journey across dark scapes and icy glitches, richly detailed with topnotch sound design that creates a spacious flow throughout. The subtle rhythms that appear once in a while show some overlap with recent VC-118A productions, which makes this a very complete piece of work that shows the excellence of a producer that never stops improving himself.
- A1: Vajolet (Feat Lukas Lauermann, Wolfgang Pfistermüller & Flip Philipp)
- A2: Autostrada Del Brennero (Feat Diggory Kenrick)
- A3: Latzfonser Kreuz (Feat Mamadou Diabate & Hamidou Koita)
- A4: Lago Di Garda (Feat Roger Robinson)
- A5: Alfa Romeo 145 (Feat Kwame Yeboah)
- A6: Feltuner Hütte (Feat Osman Murat Ertel)
- A7: Avrupa Köprüsü (Feat Osman Murat Ertel)
- A8: Europabrücke (Feat Susanna Gartmayer)
- B1: Ancient Atoll (Feat Reinhilde Gamper, Martin Mallaun & Flip Philipp)
- B2: Latemar (Feat Reinhilde Gamper & Martin Mallaun)
- B3: Brennerautobahn (Feat Taka Noda)
- B4: Echoes Part I (Feat Flip Philipp)
- B5: Echoes Part Ii (Feat Flip Philipp)
- B6: Transit Tribe (Feat Didi Kern)
- B7: Latemar (Reprise)
12"[23,49 €]
Ulrich Troyer has been producing music now solidly for over twenty years within a largely genre free framework, but whilst navigating forms such as avant-garde, techno, leftfield, field recording, electronica, glitch and ambient it is the aesthetics of dub that guide his creative direction. Not really recognisable in an orthodox form as remixed versions of roots reggae songs but in the way sonics are manipulated with space, the application and layering of delay, reverb and echo that fixes his output well within the scope of what might be called futurist dub.
The nearest comparisons to his new album TRANSIT TRIBE can only be established by a synthesis of some of the more adventurous explorations in modern music such as African Head Charge, Jon Hassell, Pole (Stefan Betke), Bill Laswell or even Miles Davis; featuring a diverse selection of artists and friends not only from Vienna and environs but also from around the world, sounds are not so much fused but allowed to float along the continuous flowing tide of warm waves of bass.
Rather than to allow the names of Ulrich Troyer's collaborators be merely listed in the album credits, what they bring to this joyful affair needs to be outlined, albeit briefly: Co-producer credits go to Osman Murat Ertel from Istanbul, who employed a variation on the old foolproof Nick Lowe method for checking out the impact quality of his own sound productions by playing tracks through his car sound system speakers!
Murat is a member of the electro-psych-folk group Baba Zula where he plays electric saz, oscillators and theremin and played a key part in the creative development of the album. Mamadou Diabate, the balafon master originally from Burkina Faso and now resident in Vienna, has developed his own unique technique of playing solos that replicate the sound of three instruments playing in unison; however the multi-talented Mamadou is engaged here on singing and playing the talking drum. From South Tyrol Reinhilde Gamper is a member of the experimental trio Greifer who are bringing the sound of the zither into the twenty-first century using new playing techniques and electronic gadgets. Susanna Gartmayer is an Austrian composer and bass clarinetist specialising in improv and multimedia sound research. Diggory Kenrick has been engaged with creating new dub fusions and also re-energising classic rocksteady and roots reggae classics, renowned for his interventions on flute. Didi Kern is an electronic dance musician and drummer from Vienna with a focus on free improvised music. Hamidou Koita, a singer and multi-instrumentalist, is from a traditional Griot family in Burkina Faso but now resident in Vienna and a regular musical partner of Mamadou Diabate playing drums and calabash. Austrian Lukas Lauermann is both a studio and live musician playing cello, also working on electronic sound design and writing string arrangements. He has recorded extensively and appeared on stage with both Mark Lanegan and Hans-Joachim Roedelius. Martin Mallaun is a Tyrol-born specialist in both the development of the zither in modern music and also as a researcher in the effects of climate change on the vegetation of Alpine ecosystems. Mystica Tribe is the musical alias of Tokyo-based dub/techno producer Taka (Takafumi) Noda. He collaborated with Vienna's own Vegetable Orchestra on 2020's "Transplants (Mystica Tribe Version)". After studying classical percussion Flip Philipp is now a jazz vibraphone player and member of the Vienna Symphony Orchestra. Wolfgang Pfistermüller is a member of the Vienna Trombone Quartet and the developer of the incredible bass-trombone Aurora with its uniquely warm and resonant sound. Roger Robinson is a renowned British poet, winner of many contemporary poetry prizes and member of the experimental music group King Midas Sound. Kwame Yeboah is a Ghanaian born UK based keyboard wizard who tours regularly with Yusuf / Cat Stevens, Ms. Dynamite and Pat Thomas.
So contained on the album is an astonishing mix of musicians and instruments: sounds of cowbells recorded in the South Tyrolean alps processed by modular synthesizers and heavy analogue bass synths combined with instruments such as zither, bass-zither, electro saz, flute, talking drum, trombone, cello, vibraphone, marimba, djembe, contra-alto clarinet, melodica, Farfisa - all bound together by organic live-drums and dub effects.
Liner notes by Steve Barker
RIYL: Sufjan Stevens, Pearls Before Swine, Richard Dawson, Incredible String Band, Scott Walker. When Dominic Harris started work on the follow up to 2017’s “Rural Tonic”, he had a different kind of landscape in mind than the bucolic inspiration he’d mined for that album and its predecessor (2013’s “Woodland Casual”). Instead it was nostalgia for winters of a youth (mis)spent in 90’s Berlin.
With a lucky find of a Hohner Guitaret, (a 1960s electric thumb piano), Harris began writing lyrics around its sparse and austere accompaniment. And after reconnecting with an old friend from Edinburgh, Ricky White, now living in the USA, the plan became clearer: a winter-journey to the rural Mid-West to write and record an LP. Convening in White’s new hometown of Bloomington IN, Harris would work each morning in the county library, the pair then venturing out on long, aimless drives down country roads before returning to put their ideas and conversation into music. With songs written over two weeks, Harris and White headed to a small studio space in a derelict strip mall in Indianapolis, to capture the album in as minimalistic a form as was fitting to the wintry feel of much of the music; glimmers of pedal steel and recorder shining out amid the dual acoustic guitars and piano arrangements. After the pandemic cut its swathe through all plans, the recording sessions decamped to Scotland.
By then Harris’s longtime collaborator Robert McFall had written string arrangements for each song, effortlessly capturing the spirit of the original vision whilst elevating each song towards the universal. Still there were the frosty hedgerows and abandoned factories of the rural Rust Belt. But also now the sandstone architecture and cobwebs of Edinburgh, and the cold grey of the Firth of Forth. Diminuet, the cover artwork showing a catheter transformed into a flower, captures that fragile moment where the world seems forever frozen in time, even as the Spring prepares to transform us all once again
Dublin's finest, Tommy Holohan, makes his long awaited return to S.C.D.D. with 'Temple Theatre'.
An ode to Dublin's Trance axis, the sky-piercing EP has been subject to much anticipation. Fusing reece-driven breakbeat, trance infused sonics overlayed by chants, rave stabs and orchestral breakdowns, the release is a strong embodiment of Tommy's ability to induce symphonic, rave hysteria.
2025 Repress
With Moving Pressure 02, Rene Wise allows us to dip into a psychedelic undercurrent, yet maintaining a very grounded mentality. Its an effortlessly rolling type of minimalism, but lets be clear; its a type of minimalistic spirit backed up by a rich, kaleidoscopic sound design. MP02 is an immersive batch of mystical dance floor journeys which, in four steps, navigates the realms of gaseous sound design to more subaquatic dynamics, working with a palette of serpentine rhythms that pull us into his distinctive, subtly hypnotic world.
A1 Silo Cybin opens the release with the artists unmistakable kick drum pattern, the heartbeat of his sound. Theres a trippy, swampy energy here, enhanced by robotic vocals and broken claps that weave polyrhythms into the track. The minimalist core pulses with playful energy, while detailed textural elements softly emerge like a waves bubbling foam. Up next we have Complicated, which offers a more minimalist composition, yet injected with rich rhythmic structures. Small circular modulations swirl in the background, filling the air with a delicate yet persistent energy, while his signature vocal snippets further enhance the groove. On the B side, Rough Escorts taps into a brighter psychedelic dimension, conjuring the ethos and trademark of Moving Pressure as a whole. Listen closely a fine connection to Wises previous work on MP01 shines through, maintaining the sonic coherence of the project while pushing further into a lush space. B2 Bleep Police, dives into dystopian bleep territory. Here, the artist strips techno down to its essence, intertwining bleeps with percussion into a hyper rhythmic whole.
A living organism composed of intricately layered sonic structures. A variegated interplay of texture and rhythm. Multi dimensional sound. Welcome to Moving Pressure 02.
Back In Stock!
Throughout the past decade Paris-based producer, DJ and label owner Dj Steaw has gained widespread recognition as a bastion of raw, authentic music in the contemporary scene.
His material has found its way onto the likes of PIV Records, Hot Haus, Meta and of course his own Rutilance, Steaward and House Puff imprints.
Here we see him joining Kerri Chandler’s Kaoz Theory with his latest release and the title-track ‘Colour Of Mind’ opens the package with shuffled, dynamic drums and hypnotic vocal chants alongside bumpy stabled bass, squelchy acid licks and airy dubbed out chords.
‘Dance To The Rhythm’ follows next, stripping things back to low slung drums, echoing stab sequences, subby swells and breathy vocal cuts.
‘I Can’t Feel It’ follows on the flip-side next, heading back to a more classic house aesthetic with a gritty bass hook, organ lines and ethereal textures running atop crunchy drums.
‘Star Ready’ finally concludes the EP on a deeper tip, bringing circling synth swells, elongated bass tones and skippy percussion into the limelight.
Upfront DJ Support:
Kerri Chandler
Dennis Quin
Chris Stussy
Fabe
Cinthie
Franck Roger
Ben Rau
Jimpster
Ruff Stuff
Julietta
Chrissy
Demuir
Reclaim Your Cities next frequency-jammer comes in the form of a heavyweight split 4-tracker, courtesy of two true techno pioneering figures: Mike Parker and Steve Bicknell.
The continued influence of these two artists on both our early raving days and now as a team working on providing you the most exciting, boundary-pushing tech wares is second to none. As you'll experience from the four jams constitutive of this unparalleled mindtrip of an EP, 'In The Years Ahead' is the living evidence the steadfastness of Parker and Bicknell's vision remains absolutely untouched. Zeroed in on taking ravers on an entrancing ride across pulsating corridors of whirring machine funk, sizzling acid and shape-shifting waves of sound, both sides of this EP share the best lot of both producers' uniquely innovative approach to rhythm and production.
Parker's opening cut, 'Solar Limb' is a textbook example of his complex, and heavily layered sound-design. An unflinching swing keeping time, brutal kicks punching holes in your head like giant steel hammers, the track may evolve slowly, repeating its post-industrial mantra over and over again, its flame doesn't flicker one iota. Switching onto red-level dance floor menace, 'Badlands' pulls out the heavy artillery: an overkill bombardment of puncturing 909 drums, vortical winds blowing in the back like some solar storm of sorts, and this ebb-and-flow of FX-drenched synth ripples branded on your cortex like odd signs of cult belonging. Bicknell's takeover starts with the rugged and wild 'Chaotic World', whose title is definitely not usurped. Enter a blazing maelstrom of frantic synth assault knocked askew, intense bass tectonic movements and smashing arpeggios on the path of war. The track develops a massive momentum, swelling from primordial raw matter into weirdly arranged modular constructions, like that of Kubrick's monolith emerging with ominous presence. 'In The Years Ahead' serves up a much distinctively elegant, glossy type of textural experience, synths playing pong in a hall of mirrors, interlacing and distorting as the percussive line unfolds its linear train-like groove. It dashes across landscapes of hypermodern glass and concrete with unrelenting horsepower, from techno's early sanctuary right up onto tomorrow's temple of unmapped potentialities.
This much special release, so dear to our heart, comes clad in a beautiful piece of design, and will be pressed to 180g audiophile quality vinyl for an enhanced listening experience.
Words from the label:
Re-issue label Sentinel Island Disco returns to the stage with their long-awaited soca compilation featuring highly sought after soca cuts, raw 90’s soca house and deep blends of reggae, calypso and disco.
Structured by a PARTY and a SOUL side, the compilation offers a snapshot of the 90s electronic soca scene in all its multifaceted glory. The party side serves up a selection of pulsating, feel-good party tracks that encapsulate the carefree spirit that is the very heartbeat of soca parties. While the soul side explores a more introspective soundscape, where soulful vocals and deep electronic beats merge to create a powerful emotional experience and where melodies linger long after the music stops.
Label owners Barney Graman and Coco Vink have spent the past 3 years on bringing these lost and obscured recordings back into the limelight, some of which now pressed on vinyl for the very first time. All tracks are carefully remastered and some have been edited or remixed for the modern dancefloor, while staying as close as possible to the original brilliance.
The result is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a celebration of soca’s rich heritage and its ability to unite both different cultures as well as divergent musical themes, from joyous celebration to soulful reflection. All in all, a must-have compilation for all the collectors and aficionados of the rich and uplifting music of the African diaspora, as well as DJ's, dancers and music lovers looking to spice up their collection with some incredible soca music!
Comes as a transparent colored vinyl, featuring a small booklet with artist and label pictures as well as full liner notes on the genre's history and introduction of the tracks.
Limited to 500 copies.
Steyoyoke Black 100 marks the celebration of the label’s 100th release, encapsulating the essence of dark, emotive techno in an exclusive double vinyl format. This milestone features eight compelling tracks from both established and emerging talents, perfectly embodying the Steyoyoke Black sound.
Side A kicks off with “Rune” by MPathy & Andrewboy, a track filled with intensity and deep energy, followed by “Psilocybin” from Santiago Celasso, which takes listeners on a mesmerizing, trippy journey. On Side B, Pablo Goyesi delivers “Volatile”, an ever-evolving powerhouse of sound, while Furkan Cinar’s “Rigity” brings a dark, driving force to the mix. Side C continues the exploration with “Silky” by Aquiver, a beautifully textured and atmospheric piece, alongside “Voyager I” from Senses Of Mind, a track that captures the feeling of an interstellar adventure. Closing out the compilation on Side D, 2Qimic presents “Elyssia”, a hypnotic and powerful tune, and Blotho & Studio Deep deliver “Foundation”, a track that grounds the collection with deep, resonant rhythms.
Each track on Steyoyoke Black 100 represents a unique piece of the label’s identity, coming together to celebrate a century of releases in true Steyoyoke Black style. Available exclusively on double vinyl, this limited edition is a must-have for collectors and lovers of dark, emotive techno.
Since 1982 'Looking Up To You' has become one of the signature tracks of the modern soul world and played out regularly at events to this day. It is co-written by Leon Ware with Zane Grey (of Grey & Hanks) and produced by Webster Lewis, all giants in this music genre. The song has also been much sampled, most notably by Zhane (Hey Mr. DJ), Ortega Cartel (Miami Vice), Yusher (Gorodskie Uzory) and three this year alone by Skule Toyama (To You), Jericho Jackson (Seventeen) and Saint Duck (Bamboo). This 7' version has also become more in demand, as too the B side 'Tell Me Why', both condensed to four minutes. Michael Wycoff was from Los Angeles and worked with Stevie Wonder on 'Songs In The Key of Life' prior to his three albums for RCA
re:lax HQ finishes off a stellar year with their third record of 2024 - WONDA. Following re:ni's head spinning debut, Laksa comes with more arsenal for the club. Sampling iconic grime hype escalation, that energy is channeled into 3 UK soundsystem techno cuts. Razor synths, drum workouts, visceral bass-weight with vocal psychedelia, this is sonic exploration and experimentation with a FWD spirit.
The record also sees Laksa delve into his first vocal collaboration, working with Nyege Nyege affiliated Phelimuncasi - all the way from South Africa. Club and Dubwise versions - take ur pick
Another deep dive into the Steve Pickton DAT archive brings us this gem from the golden age of UK Techno. Not previously credited as a Stasis outing this 4 track EP was originally released in 1995 as a limited run white label and stamped Sugar Plum (with Fat Boy Funk etched into the run out groove).
Each track builds with Steve’s signature Detroit inspired beats and chunky bass lines and those trademark ethereal pads eventually release the tension. Raw and powerful these are classic machine edged productions from a UK Techno pioneer.
Remastered by Simon Davey at The Exchange
In 2007, Anna Logue Records have already released this 7″EP from unsung UK minimal synth post-punk heroes CHAIN OF COMMAND.
While they would have deserved a vinyl release already back in the 80’s, there was only their contribution of the actual track “Some Aspects” to the brilliant and highly sought-after compilation LP “Subtle Hints” (UK 1983, Sane Records). They had recorded a couple of more tracks using Roland SH-09 and sequencer, Roland TR-808, Boss DR-55, Electro Harmonix DRM 32, a customised Ibanez Blazer Bass, Korg Micro Preset, Logan String Synth and Arp Axxe, which unfortunately didn’t make it onto any further release until the 7”EP was released.
All songs date back to 1982, recorded in Liverpool, UK, so if you’ve missed out on the first edition, then here’s your chance to grab a copy which now has a wonderful newly designed fold-out poster sleeve, as always by the great Steve Lippert!
7″EP features: limited 2nd edition of 117 copies, revised artwork, two-sided foldout poster sleeve, double-sided hand-numbered postcard, exclusive download for unreleased track “Three Intruders” (and maybe more).
Dj Stephano steps up to the plate after a run of wicked EPs on Kniteforce, KFA and KFRR....this release showcases his variety in style and ability to turn anything into something dark and terrifying. Darkness has a fierce swagger and pace to it, using wanr stabs in a nasty way, and a strange speech to further mystify and confuse the listener. Just Play is anything but playful, with its hypnotic sounds and unusual format, while Blame brings in a sinister piano to an increasingly claustrophobic vibe...
Baka G returns to Happiness Therapy with her highly anticipated second EP, building on the breakthrough success of ‘Weekend’ and a remarkable European tour with the label. Unveiling ‘In Circles’, the rising French-Swiss talent delivers four fresh original tracks, joined by remixes from COEO and Marc Brauner.
With each new project, Baka G refines her signature blend of garage and tribal house, subtly bringing more of her own vocals into her compositions and infusing her sound with the infectious energy that has become her hallmark. A captivating force in the underground house scene, her productions offer an open-minded, club-friendly soundtrack that bridges her musical heritage with her commitment to minorities and the queer community.
Soon, she’ll bring all of this to her new residency at Paris’s iconic house club, Djoon, as well as on her upcoming tour.
Hooj present Warehouse Tools EP with a spread of tempos, but keeping the energy levels up across the 4 tracks.
Fast rising Brighton bod Jamie Unknown takes Farayen & Liam Parkin's Where Do We Go ‘, and strips it all back into a big floor bassline banger.
Young South Wales / Valleys producer Dan Newman makes his debut with 'Moving' with it's rolling piano's, spacey pads and fat housey rhythms treading the line between Italo scream up and Dream-House journey. Early doors, or first light starting to appear through the cracks in the grimey Warehouse windows, we're here for it..
On the flip we have Dutch duo Dean & Di After’s ‘Wicked Dreams’ keeps it steady paced, subtly bouncy with a crafted, Italo '90 old school feel.
Rounding off the EP we have the South West’s premier MDMA Marxist, Shade Guevara goes mid tempo maximalist piano slammer on 'Ted or Dead'.
- A1: Jezebel
- A2: Parce Que
- A3: Les Deux Gitares
- A4: Je M'voyais Déjà
- A5: Il Faut Savoir
- A6: Les Comédiens
- A7: La Mamma
- A8: Sa Jeunesse Entre Ses Mains
- A9: Et Pourtant
- B1: For Me Formidable
- B2: Sur Ma Vie
- B3: A Ma Fille
- B4: Que C'est Triste Venise
- B5: Une Enfant
- B6: Hier Encore
- B7: Au Printemps Tu Reviendras
- B8: La Bohème
- B9: Paris Au Mois D'août
- C1: Tout S'en Va
- C2: Emmenez-Moi
- C3: Le Cabotin
- C4: Non Je N'ai Rien Oublié
- C5: Mourir D'aimer
- C6: Les Plaisirs Démodés
- D1: Comme Ils Disent
- D2: A Ma Femme
- D3: Tous Les Visages De L'amour
- D4: Mes Emmerdes
- D5: J'ai Vu Paris
- D6: Toi Et Moi
- D7: Je T'aime Aime
- E1: Avec Un Brin De Nostalgie
- E2: Tomorrow Is My Turn
- E3: How Sad Venice Can Be
- E4: The Old Fashioned Way
- E5: The I Love You' Song
- E6: She
- E7: Yesterday When I Was Young
- E8: I'll Be There
- F1: La Légende De Stenka Razine (With Les Compagnons De La Chanson)
- F2: Je Voyage (With Katia Aznavour)
- F3: Il Faut Savoir (With Johnny Hallyday)
- F4: Young At Heart (With Frank Sinatra)
- F5: J'aime Paris Au Mois De Mai (With Zaz)
- F6: Ave Maria
Collected by Charles Aznavour is a wonderful collection of hits and classics by the French chansonnier, that touches your soul at every moment. It’s an overview of his work during the sixties, seventies and duets with Johnny Hallyday on “Il Faut Savoir” and with Frank Sinatra “Young At Heart”. Also his English versions of “How Sad Venice Can Be”, “The Old Fashioned Way”, “She” and four more English songs are included on this deluxe Trifold 3LP album.
In the early 1950s a man of short stature attempts to win over his audience. With a hoarse voice he delivers songs that do not catch on. People jeer at him. Tomatoes fly through the air. The Frenchman with Armenian roots slinks off the stage, but does not quit. Ironically, the song that makes him a household name is the song in which he recalls his agonising trial. The audience reacted indifferently when Charles Aznavour decided to try out his new song on stage. But when he went on to greet the audience for one final time they all stood and gave him a thundering standing ovation.
In the sixties, hits and classics succeed one another. Nobody is bothered any more by his husky voice, by his small stature or his rugged characterful face. The croony “For Me Formidable” (1963), the heart breaking “Et Pourtant” (1963) and the nostalgic “Hier Encore” (1964) confirm his standing as a fan favourite. “La Bohème” (1965) and “Emmenez-moi” (1967) turn Aznavour into a superstar. In “La Bohème”, there are impressionist painters strolling in the shadows of the Sacré-Coeur, the compelling “Comme Ils Dissent” (1972) is the first chanson after Vichy France to overtly endorse homo sexuality and in the present “France Of La Manif Pour Tous” (the movement that opposes gay marriage), does it again to sound particularly topical. “Camarade” (1977) was about the nomenklatura, the ruling elite in the Soviet Union and is a social and historical topic. “Avec Un Brin De Nostalgie” is an Aznavour grand cru, maybe even the best he has made over the last thirty years.
Charles Aznavour Collected is available as a limited pressing of 1000 individually numbered copies on gold vinyl. The package includes a 4-page booklet with liner notes and photos.
We're beyond excited to announce the launch of our new "Outer Space" series.
This release features three original tracks that will immerse you in a compelling sound experience.
Adding to the excitement, we have a remarkable remix by the talented David Gtronic, who brings his unique touch to elevate the experience further!
Produced and mixed by Vlad Voda and Alexandru Caliman.
Remix and additional production by David Giraldo.
Mastered by Stefan Eichinger at mixmastering
Pressed at Mother Tongue Distributed by VinylFuture
DLR drops his first album since starting Sofa Sound Bristol - ‘Money Till I Got None’.
The album is a tongue in cheek reflection on modern life, society, politics and of course MONEY. The never ending thirst and need for it; the stress and freedom it can bring; its power, its illusion and all its contradictions.
Drawing on life experiences from a relatively privileged position, but also from travelling and meeting many types of people across the UK and worldwide, the album explores different perspectives about money from varying sections of society.
In the 7 years since his last album, DLR has been through highs and lows, played big shows, struggled, released classic tracks and spent, spent, spent, spent. 'Money Till I Got None' is his journey of frustration and realisation and his first fully solo album in terms of production, but with a stellar lineup of vocalists and musicians to bring invaluable perspectives and experiences to the project.
Established poets, story tellers and MCs such as Fox, Rider Shafique, Jakes and Gusto bring unique insight, upcomers Freddy B & Kathryn Brenna add crucial flavours and we welcome Hal (Snazzback) on keys plus additional musical direction, with further instrumentation from Abbey Neave & Joe Bradford.
Porto’s based Arctween debuts his “Ping-Pong” LP in Madluv records landing with a overall ambient and dub based soundscape.
The whole piece has many harmonic moments with drifty string arrangements and nu-wave synth pads, emanating a chemistry between balearic and world music with a constant feet on swinged experimental grooves. Showcasing the multi-instrumentalist’s ability to navigate between genres and languages.
Throughout the album there’s an overall sense of trickling synthscapes mixed with carefully layered cellos and ethereal chords.
Adding to the equation there’s a few different close collaborators present in the many moments of this multifaceted stellar listening journey.
Recorded between 2021 and 2022.
VDK returns after a break with VDK006.
3 tracks with 3 different sounds and genre.
A1 Odette - Give You What You Need
A2 Odette - Where Has The Love Gone
B1 Odette - Monday Morning
Step into the world of VDK and be ready to get mesmerized..
‘The Night of the Stars’ is the fantastic sixth album from Swedish dream pop favorites AZURE BLUE. The album pushes the quality to its peak, exhibiting a richer, clearer, and more luxurious approach to the patented AZURE BLUE sound across ten enticing tracks. Three of the songs generated significant buzz when released as singles. Album opener ‘Rise’ is a shimmering track with a rushing drumbeat topped by luxurious layers of analog synths and a Peter Hook-like bass. The song is a dream pop anthem featuring a timeless chorus and vocal harmonies from AZURE BLUE’s long time companion The Land Below.
The crystal-clear topline in ‘Three Times The Drama’ shines over electric guitars and analog synths to create an immediate pop song with great summer hit potential. The song is also a bittersweet dedication to Tobias Isaksson’s mother, who recently passed away, and its completion provided comfort following a period of unspeakable grief. The album also includes ‘Define Your Dreams’—a bright flare first previewed during the dark days of the pandemic with massive synth walls and lyrics that suggest that while difficult times have passed, more difficult ones may be coming. ‘Visions and Themes’ will have its premiere on October 25 when it is released as the fourth single from the album, while the remaining six tracks provide even further evidence of the brilliance of one of Sweden’s most internationally acclaimed indie artists.
Mixed by Tobias Isaksson and Ollie Olson. Mastered by Håkan Åkesson at Nutidstudio.
Artwork by Alexander Palmestål. Design by James Tassos and Steve Lippert.
12″LP features: limited edition of 300 copies, 140 grams crystal clear vinyl, hand-numbered double-sided postcard, download code.
“The music by Ludvig Forssell and El Michels Affair provides suitably thumping accompaniment.”
Soundtrack performed by El Michels Affair, an American cinematic soul group led by musician and producer Leon Michels.
* Leon has worked with a who’s who of talented musicians, including a brief spell as part of Wu-Tang’s touring band, he started making music under his own steam with the express intention that it be sampled by hip-hop producers. Jay Z, Beyoncé, Travis Scott and Don Toliver all used his work for their songs.
Bill Skarsgård stars as "Boy" who vows revenge after his family is murdered by Hilda Van Der Koy (Famke Janssen), the deranged matriarch of a corrupt post-apocalyptic dynasty that left the boy orphaned, deaf and voiceless. Driven by his inner voice, one which he co-opted from his favorite childhood video game, Boy trains with a mysterious shaman (Yayan Ruhian) to become an instrument of death and is set loose on the eve of the annual culling of dissidents. Bedlam ensues as Boy commits bloody martial arts mayhem, inciting a wrath of carnage and blood-letting. As he tries to get his bearings in this delirious realm, Boy soon falls in with a desperate resistance group, all the while bickering with the apparent ghost of his rebellious little sister.
The Golden Gate Quartett: Various Artists Compilation No.4
This release features four tracks that explore the diverse sounds of Minimal House, Tech House, and Deep House, showcasing distinct styles rooted in the underground scene.
Johnny D's "Dream System" combines soulful melodies with a rhythmic drive, creating a track that balances smooth grooves and steady energy. It’s music designed for those moments where sound takes you somewhere else.
Melina & Jakob Seidensticker present "Welcome to Japan", a playful journey through classic acid-inspired Tech House. Crisp beats and hypnotic acid lines make it a track that invites exploration and movement.
Edgar Peng’s "Synesthesia" offers a deep, immersive experience with lush textures and emotional layers. It’s a piece that holds its ground on the dance floor while inviting introspection.
Ali Demir & Skjærstad close the release with "Mud Pot", a groovy, stripped-back Minimal House track. Its subtle sophistication lies in its simplicity, offering a refined listening experience.
This compilation celebrates the creativity and range of the Golden Gate Club sound, delivering tracks that resonate both in the club and beyond.
8 straight sound system wreckers from Dionysian Mysteries , with each artist commanding their own sonic terrain. Embracing intensity on the dance floor by devolving ravers from a flock to a pariah of freaks. Dedicated to the outcasts, weirdos, and big booty cadets generating all that steam heat. 400 vinyl copies NO REPRESS (12'' Featuring tracks by DJ DISRESPECT , Kovyazin D , Wee DJs , DJ DR-660, and Nastia 6.9)
Mastered by DECODE BERLIN. Artwork work by Michael Idehall. Distribution by Lobster Distribution.
Twin Color - Vol 1 marks the grand return of Murcof to producing a full-length album in all its glory and generosity, nearly two decades after the release of Cosmos in 2007. Celebrated for his classical, minimalist textures and unique soundscapes, Murcof has established himself as a master of modern ambient music alongside Tim Hecker, Alva Noto, and Johann Johannsson. With this new album, Murcof takes a bold step forward, embracing a distinctly cinematic and dystopian narrative influenced by the great science fiction films of the 1980s. This new direction immerses the listener in atmospheres that are at times dark, at times filled with nostalgic brightness, drawing inspiration from post-punk and synth-wave, while partially reconnecting with his early experiments with the Nortec Collective.
Premiered at Mutek Montréal in August 2024, Twin Color is also an unprecedented audiovisual performance, created in collaboration with Simon Geilfus, based in Brussels, who has nourished and colored the album’s production. This immersive performance, conceived in the IRCAM studios in Paris in 2022, unfolds the album's tracks against a backdrop of moving natural landscapes, as mysterious as they are fascinating, highlighted in the album's visual elements.
Twin Color - Vol 1 will be available in vinyl, CD, and digital formats, each with track listings adapted to the listening experience. This album reaffirms Murcof’s unique sonic signature, blending analog synthesizers with modern production techniques to create a multisensory experience, propelling Murcof into an exciting new decade.
Breve is the new album by Stefan Paul Goetsch aka Hainbach.
"After a ceaseless amount of work and family struggles, 2023 had left me empty and tired. Instead of the many hats I usually wear, I shifted my focus exclusively on my music. For two weeks every day I sat down behind a few modular synths, a toy piano and an Ondioline, recording tape after tape. I did not lock myself in though - my kids were playing around me, commenting, touching knobs, adding oscillations. What in „deadline times“ can be disrupting, became restorative. I was with my family, just drifting on waveforms. I hope some of that atmosphere shines through, and the album can help you to find peace as it did for me.
Thanks to Forgotten Futures for the loan of the Ondioline and technician Daniel Kitzig for the beautiful restoration work." - Hainbach
Based out of Berlin, Germany, electronic music composer and performer Hainbach creates shifting audio landscapes THE WIRE called "One hell of a trip". His music has been released on Opal Tapes, Seil Records, Spring Break Tapes, Limited Interest and Marionette. He has been fascinated with sine tones, noise and FM since he discovered the dial on the radio. Never losing his childhood wonder, he still searches for the sounds in between on modular synths and other devices.
- A1: Bebe Winans - Let's Go Champ (Two Soul Fusion Ad Lib Dub)
- B1: Nv - Groovy Dream (Nv Mix)
- B2: Mobi Dixon - City Rain (Dj Erv Rework)
- C1: Boddhi Satva Ft. Vivian K - Life Is A Lesson (Dj Erv Rework)
- C2: Vega Ft. Johnny Dangerous - London Roots (Dj Erv Rework)
- D1: Funki Cadets Ft. Axel Tosca - Change Demo (Solo Mix)
- D2: Louie Vega & Msaki - Mercy Of Time (Afrodub)
- E1: Louie Vega & Msaki - Mercy Of Time (Louie's Ruff Mix)
- F1: Elements Of Life - Liberated Fantasy (Edit)
- F2: Funki Cadets Ft. Axel Tosca - Marimba Beats
- G1: Tommy Bones - Shouldna
- G2: Funki Cadets - V.r. Tribute (Louie Vega Deep Dub)
- H1: Elements Of Life Ft. Josh Milan - Berimbau
- H2: Funki Cadets - Flames
- I1: Funki Cadets - Froton
- I2: Nv - Steppin' House
- J1: Tommy Bones - Dub Style
- J2: Natasha Watts - Everything (Dj Erv Rework)
IV[56,09 €]
ADE is just around the corner which means it’s time for the annual Vega Records 5 Pack Unreleased limited vinyl release.
Unreleased V is ready for you to play at your vinyl parties with a lineup of super talented individuals including Bebe Winans, Msaki, NV, Funki Cadets, Axel Tosca, Boddhi Satva, Tommy Bones, Johnny Dangerous, Dj Erv, Natasha Watts, Mobi Dixon, and Josh Milan. This year we hit you with 18 Unreleased tracks, special versions, dubs, and more for your dance floors and house parties. With 5 new reworks by Dj Erv to new young talent NV, to seasoned songwriter and genius talented artist Msaki, to the incomparable Bebe Winans, to Brooklyn producer Tommy Bones, to the maestro on keyboards Axel Tosca and more, this 5 pack brings you around the world within 18 tracks from Brazil to Africa to Cuba and back to New York City ! The pressing is pristine mastered by Herb “Pump” Powers and vinyl manufactured at Optimal Germany assuring you top quality excellence! This is a limited edition so get yours asap before they sell out! Available soon at a record store near you!
Published: 21st October 2024
Who's that finally wrestling tanum from the tyranical clutches of klaus? It's winsome.
Coming in from the wilderness to deliver his first record since 2017, stepping off the path he's been trodding through lovers rock to explore new territories of rhythm, sound and sub bass pressure.
Earquake 1991[22,48 €]
Earquake 1992[22,48 €]
Earquake 1993[22,48 €]
Earquake 1994[22,48 €]
Earquake 1996[22,48 €]
Earquake 1997[22,48 €]
Earquake 1998[22,48 €]
Earquake 1999[22,48 €]
It is the year 1995 and it’s summer, the second extremely hot summer after 1994, and the asphalt on Gladbacher Straße in Cologne is glowing. Ravers in much too wide and much too colorful clothes doze off in the glaring midday heat. These are the last days of the legendary Delirium record store, a socio-cultural biotope that would later become KOMPAKT. In June 1995, the store moved deeper into the Belgian Quarter, to Brabanter Straße 42 near Friesenplatz.
Wolfgang Voigt liked to wear too-big sunglasses even back then, just as he already had the master plan for the next few years, the new store, the renaming to KOMPAKT, and the upcoming takeover of the musical world order by minimal techno in his head. On less sunny days, the musician Wolfgang Voigt was tinkering with his very own label Profan, a new sound, new pseudonyms and masquerades. His alter ego Mike Ink had grown tired, another self, one of many, was now pushing forward to become the next torch in the storm.
By early 1995, the first Grungerman EP, "Hout," had been released on Profan. A nucleus of ambient loops that already announced the sonic aesthetics of GAS, stoic rhythmic structures that would shape the coming decade of minimal house and techno, and an all-encompassing gloom and heaviness that didn't want to fit at all with the gaudy reality of the nineties between Loveparade, Mayday and VIVA House TV. This probably most hedonistic decade of the 20th century had celebrated, besides techno, above all a rough guitar music called Grunge, coined and immortalized by a depressive, hyperactive and narcoleptic young man with matted blond hair who had taken his own life a year before. In no other track has Wolfgang Voigt packed these inner and outer contradictions of his art as well as of the mid-nineties more ingeniously than in "In Tyrannis". From wall to wall there are four steps.
"Klang" by Wolfgang Voigt originally comes from the first and only GAS EP on Profan, "Modern", from the spring of 1995 and is one of the most beautiful exhibits of Voigt's sound of those years, which relentlessly runs its course somewhere between glistening sunrises on Ecstasy and bad drugs in the dark Liquid Sky Cologne. With "Hocker DJ 1" and "Hocker DJ 2" there are two more musical references to this myth-enshrouded place in Kyffhäuserstraße, where for a few years the entire, so-called Sound Of Cologne had literally settled down.
Wir schreiben das Jahr 1995. Es ist Sommer, der zweite extrem heiße Sommer nach 1994, und der Asphalt auf der Gladbacher Straße in Köln glüht. Raver in viel zu weiten und viel zu bunten Klamotten dösen ihren Rausch aus in der grellen Mittagshitze. Es sind die letzten Tage des legendären Delirium Plattenladens, eines soziokulturellen Biotops, aus dem später die Firma Kompakt hervorgehen sollte. Im Juni 1995 erfolgte der Umzug tiefer hinein ins Belgische Viertel, in die Brabanter Straße 42 in der Nähe des Friesenplatz.
Wolfgang Voigt trug schon damals gerne zu große Sonnenbrillen, so wie er bereits den Masterplan für die nächsten Jahre, den neuen Laden, die Umbenennung in KOMPAKT sowie die anstehende Übernahme der musikalischen Weltordnung durch Minimal Techno im Kopf hatte. An weniger sonnigen Tagen tüftelte der Musiker Wolfgang Voigt an seinem ureigenen Label Profan, an einem neuen Sound, neuen Pseudonymen und Maskeraden. Sein Alter Ego Mike Ink war müde geworden, ein anderes Ich, eines von vielen, drängte nun nach vorne, um die nächste Fackel im Sturm zu werden.
Anfang 1995 war die erste Grungerman EP “Hout” auf Profan erschienen. Ein Nukleus aus ambienten Loops, die bereits die klangliche Ästhetik von GAS ankündigten, stoischen rhythmischen Strukturen, die das kommende Jahrzehnt Minimal House und Techno prägen sollten, sowie einer allumfassenden Düsternis und Schwere, die so gar nicht zur knallbunten Realität der Neunziger Jahre zwischen Loveparade, Mayday und VIVA House TV passen wollte. Dieses wohl hedonistischste Jahrzehnt des 20. Jahrhunderts hatte neben Techno vor allem eine raue Gitarrenmusik namens Grunge gefeiert, geprägt und unsterblich gemacht von einem depressiven, hyperaktiven und an Narkolepsie leidenden jungen Mann mit verfilzten blonden Haaren, der sich ein Jahr zuvor das Leben genommen hatte. In keinem anderen Track hat Wolfgang Voigt diese inneren und äußeren Widersprüche seiner Kunst wie auch dieser Zeit Mitte der Neunziger genialistischer verpackt als in “In Tyrannis”. Von Wand zu Wand sind es vier Schritte.
“Klang” von Wolfgang Voigt stammt ursprünglich von der ersten und einzigen GAS EP auf Profan, “Modern”, aus dem Frühling 1995 und ist eines der schönsten Exponate des Voigtschen Sounds dieser Jahre; ein Track, der irgendwo zwischen gleisenden Sonnenaufgängen auf Ecstasy und schlechten Drogen im dunklen Liquid Sky Cologne unerbittlich seine Bahnen zieht. Mit “Hocker DJ 1” und “Hocker DJ 2” finden sich zwei weitere musikalische Referenzen an diesen mythenumrankten Ort in der Kyffhäuserstraße, an dem sich für einige Jahre der gesamte sogenannte Sound Of Cologne im wahrsten Sinne des Wortes niedergelassen hatte.
Forest Jams continues the journey into the great beyond with Mori Ra’s Mantra–an EP composed of four edits created for any inquisitive earthling and forest wanderer.
Mori Ra is a DJ based in Osaka, Japan his sets are a witches brew composed of balearic, cosmic, and electronic disco ingredients. He has released on other labels such as Rotating Souls, Macadam Mambo, Berceuse Heroique, MM Discos and more. In Mantra, Mori Ra acts as a mysterious wanderer who has stumbled upon the doors of our minds in the middle of the night. When we answer the door he is bearing gifts of creative glory and all we need to do is provide shelter in return. We invite him in so that he can rest, recharge, and continue his journey.
During his visit in our minds Mori Ra shares “Mantra” the secrets of the universe disguised as parables packaged neatly into four tracks. Catharsis begins the journey and immediately throws us into a sound that feels like we are driving a spaceship in Gran Turismo 37, the spaceship simulator. Now that we have successfully crossed the plane and have entered the digital unknown, Seinn O! becomes the story of communication. Seinn O! gave the smoke leaving my mouth color and the shamanistic chants placed me in an atmospheric state with the ability to cross over and communicate in the digital space. Then comes 孫行者 the Grandson Traveler, which embodies the story of the simulation. Imagine the sound of a bustling dystopian city in the matrix–neon signs, dancing billboards, talking vending machines, radioactive wildlife, and overgrown foliage leaking in from the jungle the city is carved into. Mori Ra seems to have melded all of those sounds together to create the soundtrack of the big city where everyone is lost. Finally, before leaving our minds Mori Ra offers the final parable, あの星 That Star. Which becomes the story of realization, the journey back home from the exploration of the mind. That Star brought me into a cave and I could see the opening at the end of it, all I had to do was walk towards it. However, I couldn’t walk. I could only galumph forward, while bouncing up and down to the beat. My arms slivered and guided my body forward as the vocals came in. As I moved forward the opening, the clearing, the destination remained the same distance away. The endless tunnel of the mind gave me a feeling of comfort because I did not want this journey to end.
The EP ends and we will never know who visited our minds that night, but we know we loved the journey. Mori Ra is the steward of our journey through consciousness, and the vessel is “Mantra”.
“Raggamuffin Soldier” was recorded at Channel One Recording Studio in 1983 with Soldgie as engineer and a rhythm track played by Jolly Stewart and Daniel “Axeman” Thompson. Growing up in the Waterhouse neighborhood of Kingston, Jolly Stewart obviously developed this singing style and gave us a killer early digital dancehall missile with pure conscious lyrics “Raggamuffin soldier, big ina your area...me no deal with badness, me nah deal inna war, me is a raggamuffin soldier...mi raggamuffin ina foreign, raggamuffin sit down pon di riddim...how you know the raggamuffin? Me no wear no gold chain, me no wear no gold ring...”. “Raggamuffin Soldier” was produced by Fitzroy Peterkin who also produced the digital lover tune "Angie".
The Waterhouse style is a particular style of singing that emerged in the late seventies and early eighties within the Jamaican reggae scene. The Waterhouse style is commonly described as a plaintive, groaning and fluctuating vocal style, often nasal and strident, characteristics that will give it a sound that is distinct from the rest of the reggae singers. The commonly recognized founders of the Waterhouse style are the singers Michael "Mykal" Rose, Junior Reid and Don Carlos. The name derives from the famous neighborhood of the same name in Kingston, the capital of Jamaica, the place where the three pioneers were born and emerged. The Waterhouse style influenced many dancehall reggae artists of the eightiesvsuch as Tenor Saw, Half Pint, Nitty Gritty, Anthony Red Rose, King Kong, Yami Bolo, Andrew Bees...
Vincent Stewart aka “Jolly Man” is a reggae singer from Kingston 11, born december 16 1960 at Hunts Bay Lane, 4 Miles, Jamaica. Jolly started singing at age 13, he was placed in an approve School for 3 years and at the age of 16 he was released.
He started his musical career in the late 70's with Ossie Thomas, Phllip Morgan and Tristan Palmer from Black Solidarity label. Jolly Stewart recorded his first song entitled "Money Pyaka" on the classic "Pretty Looks" riddim which was recorded for Oswald Thomas on Ganja Farm label and released in 1979. Tristan Palmer who has another tune "Disappointed Lover" on the same riddim backed by The Soul Syndicate made the link with Jolly Stewart because he liked his style of song writting.
Jolly Stewart wrote three songs for Black Solidarity label: "Collie Man", "Bad Minded" and "Symbol Of Justice". All three tracks were covered by Triston Palmer. As a song writter, Jolly Stewart is behind Yami Bolo's hit on Stalag riddim “When A Man Is In Love” released on Winston Riley's label Techniques.
Jolly Stewart then decided to move on with his singjay career. He ventured to Tuff Gong studio where he met two producers. One was Prince Jazzbo from Ujama label, and the other was John John who owned the Bun Fi Bun label. He recorded "Praise jah" for Ujama and "Poverty Rush" for Bun Fi Bun. Still not satisfied with how his career was heading, he moved on to Lannaman's Preparatory School. There he learned to play guitar from a man named Fred McMurray aka Faf and Donald Jackson. Later he learned to play the keyboards by watching other musicians.
In the late 80's and early 90's, Jolly Stewart recorded many songs for various labels such as “Do Me Like So” for Bunny Gemini's label “Bun Gem Records” in 1987, “Late Last Night” and “War” for producer Zelma Rust and his label Myotta Ruff.
He also recorded for Augustus Pablo on his label Rockers International just before he died in the late 90's but we never heard about this release so probably Addis Pablo have it on old master tapes in the Rockers International archives....only Jah knows!
RE-ISSUE / RE-MASTERED / RE-PRESSED
Steve Bicknell - Lost Recordings 1
This is a seminal double LP consisting of 8 tracks by Steve Bicknell (originally released in 1996)
from one of UK's most influential techno / electronic labels Cosmic Records - to introduce the incredible series LOST RECORDINGS
Rich, raw and unpredictable - every single one of these tracks sounds FRESH as ever!
In the 90/00's in London, Steve Bicknell was at the forefront of techno as a producer and DJ but also as a promoter (of the event series LOST)
- A1: Rancho Relaxo With Sebo K (Paramida With E-Talking Remix)
- A2: Turning My Head (2024 Rework)
- A3: Belize (Leafar Legov Sentimental Flashback Rnb Dub)
- B1: Rancho Relaxo With Sebo K (Radio Slave Remix)
- B2: Anja Schneider - Dubmission (Julian Muller Remix)
- B3: All I See (2024 Rework)
- C1: Wmf (Scuba's D-U Mix)
- C2: Rain (Jaymie Silk Remix)
- C3: All I See (Ackermann Remix)
- D1: Turning My Head (Cassy Remix)
- D2: Sanctuary Feat Stereo Mcs (Erobique Remix)
- D3: Aura Feat Sophie Hunger (2024 Rework)
- E1: Secret Escapes (Jakojako Remix)
- E2: Something Thats For Life Feat Cari Golden (2024 Rework)
- E3: Sanctuary Feat Stereo Mcs (2024 Rework)
- F1: Aura Feat Sophie Hunger (Deetron Remix)
- F2: Rain (2024 Rework)
- F3: Belize (2024 Rework)
Two decades in, one of dance music’s most celebrated DJs, producers, label owners, A&Rs, broadcasters, and tastemakers has big plans for this anniversary. In June, Anja Schneider will unveil an expansive rework and remix package on her benchmark-setting imprint, Sous Music, some of her best-loved tracks are there in less familiar forms. Expect fresh takes from Anja herself on seven of her favorite tracks plus a wealth of heavyweight remixers: Paramida & E-Talking, Radio Slave, Scuba, JakoJako, Julian Muller, Cassy, Deetron, Leafar Legov, Erobique, Jaymie Silk and Ackermann all being part of the impressive collection.
“The project includes new versions of my favourite tracks from the last 20 years and remixers who have accompanied, influenced, and currently impress me. Each artist holds a special connection for me,” says Anja in anticipation of this milestone release.
FINALLY! What an honour it is to share this one to the masses in the style of a fresh brand series that I teamed up with Bushman to bring a new label called 'Spiritual Vibes' where we will be bringing dubs that bring the vibes, the whole vibes and nothing but the vibes! Yet to launch it all off we are starting with a special project-build we had started over 2 years ago with a tune from Bushman's 90s archives; re-vamped and re-stamped with inspiration from the original track 'Return to Jah' aka Souljah Step as played by none-other than the mighty Aba Shanti-I as a themed closing anthem at many dances. Once we had played this version to Aba he had resurrected the original dubplates cuts in order so he could start running these new cuts alongside as a remix cut!
Hes part of this new generation of French house artists who brilliantly reinvent the genre by infusing it with various inspirations. After collaborating and playing with several big names of the moment, he is set to unveil his new ALBUM TROUBLE, an 8 track album with double vinyl that promises an immersion into a musical universe skillfully blending jazz, house, garage, and soul, offering a unique sonic experience.
Always endeavoring to drop it a little way different, Ital Counselor Records once again stretch things in a forward direction while paying full and forceful tribute to that which has come before. This heartical 7" is a tribute to the late great Prince Lincoln Thompson in the form of a reimagined take on his composition "Kinky Money Game."
It is with great honor that ITAL COUNSELOR records has been able to work with two legends of the music business on this slab of plastic. Firstly, Jeb Loy Nichols comes with a storied history in music and the visual arts. He first came to ITAL COUNSELOR’s attention upon discovering the 1981 compilation, “Wild Paarty Sounds” via Cherry Red/On-U Sound. Later would be greater, with projects skirting the realms of country, soul, reggae, and leftfield. Bands like the Fellow Travelers, solo albums with Adrian Sherwood, and more recently writing songs for Horace Andy’s latest On-U album have all contributed to an impressive body of work.
Over the years when Jeb is not making music, he can be found writing books or churning out block prints of birds, leaves, pithy phrases, and the odd sleeve art for labels like Pressure Sounds, and, yes ITAL COUNSELOR. His sleeve work on this 7” indeed captures the essence of the music hiding under the cardboard exterior. Lo-fi, retro while poignantly on time. Social commentary manifested auditorily and visually.
Jeb’s reinterpretation of Thompson's original bubbles over a slow burning one drop built by none other than Studio One, Riz Records, and Tuff Scout Records alum Gil Cang. In yet another musical first brought to you by ITAL COUNSELOR, this piece of wax represents the only time Jeb and Gil have worked together. The results are a magical mix equally at home in the hands of a sound system operator unconstrained by the current ‘steppers’ norms as it is on a home stereo where one can deeply sit with the lyrics of depth and significance. An old time something feel for these nowadays times. An ITAL COUNSELOR Records essential.
Feel the vibes…
super small edition of this fire 12"... TIP! Comes with a "stick it yourself" sticker for decortaing the sleeve just how you like it.
Steadily making a name for himself on the live electronics circuit and with previous vinyl outings for VLEK & LEXI DISQUES - Sagat adds to the Private Stress with a lanky, bass heavy EP . Harmonic, tripped out and rhythmic. Perfect on a big sound.
Yet more high class talent from the Bruxelles underground. BIG TIP!!
This absolute classic gets a remix from legendary old skool and jungle master, and Infrared owner, the one and only J Majik. Keeping the feel both modern and traditional, J Majik has created a perfect remix of this timeless classic.
Meanwhile, Dj Stephano has stepped his already considerable game up a level, and brought a new depth and perspective to the lesser known, but equally essential track "Field of Dreams".
SPHERART presents A.T.R 0424 V.A 001 a work of art created exclusively to break the dance floor!
This Various Artists has with the participation of great artists like Furz, Stefeano Andriezzi, Agustin Barbei, Desirée Falessi & Rindeau who are giving a lot to talk about in the scene with their sick and powerful sounds to make everyone move the universe of the clubs.
This vinyl has 4 tracks that each of them will take you on a mystical journey with sounds of 90’s house, electro & acid that will take your ears to another dimension entering in 2 dualities of the art sphere.
- A1: Yves Deruyter – Back To Earth (Dimitri Vegas Remix)
- A2: Dj Furax – Big Orgus (Junkie Kid Remix)
- A3: Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike X Maddix X Da Hool – Meet Her At The Love Parade (Ft Kiki Solvej)
- A4: Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Armin Van Buuren, Vini Vici, Push – Universal Nation
- A5: Cherrymoon Trax – The House Of House (Yves Deruyter & Byørn Remix)
- B1: The Darkman – Illegale (Dimitri Vegas Remix)
- B2: Byorn – Adagio For Strings (Vip Remix)
- B3: Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Marc Acardipane, Bassjackers – Stereo Murder
- B4: Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Vini Vici, Mattn – Cafe Del Mar (Mondello’g Remix)
- B5: Cherrymoon Trax, Dj Ghost – Needle Destruction (Dimitri Vegas & Per Pleks Remix)
- C1: Tranceball – Calyptus ( Dimitri Vegas Remix)
- C2: Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike – Heroine
- C3: Cherrymoon Trax – Acid Dream (Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike Remix)
- C4: Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, The Moon, Robert Armani, Dj Ghost – Blow Up The Speaker Vs. Hard One
- C5: Warp Brothers – Phat Bass (Luca Agnelli Remix)
- C6: Bountyhunter – Woops (Dimitri Vegas & Junkie Kid Remix)
- D1: Systematic Parts, Marco Joosten – Violin De La Nuit (Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike Remix)
- D2: Age Of Love – The Age Of Love (Dimitri Vegas Remix)
- D3: Thunderball – Bonzai Channel One (Creeds Remix)
- D4: Ben Nicky, Distorted Dreams – We Come 1 (Per Pleks Remix)
- D5: Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike X Loic D X Ronald-V – Melody Of The World
(2LP gatefold vinyl, 21 unmixed tracks) Dimitri Vegas, half of the world-renowned DJ duo & brother pair Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, went “solo” at Tomorrowland last summer. He played an exceptional 'vinyl only' set there. It was greatly enjoyed, which is why Mostiko and Smash The House have teamed up and immortalized this historic set.
Twenty-four strikes on Exarde with Parchi Pubblici, the hardware analog act from Italy who records his songs in one take and have been laying it heavily and steadily for a while, henceforth we can hear the result of it with our own ears. The release consists of four original works by the man himself with first three ready for peak time club cuts with the help of roaring analog machines. They are produced to ready to sweat the dance floor, these stories are followed by a great outro track to conclude this EP. “Pressed Trouble” which is the name of this disc describes the content of it perfectly, because sure as hell this body of work is on the mission to create trouble and trouble sometimes needed to construct the top-level audio trips. Having produced digital contents for the respected labels that you can look up, this is a debut physical vinyl release by the artist and it is a great honour to host him on the label and hopefully to many more to come in the future.
Buckley - not be confused with the UK house veteran of the same name - is a new young producer from Leeds who brings his brand of UK garage to the increasingly vital Well Street label. Opener 'Sniper's Glint' is a naughty low-end wobbler with prickly percussion. '1003' is just as filthy thanks to the low-end oscillations and glistening, knife-like hi-hats. On the flip, 'Gloam' keeps things heavy and bass-driven with kinetic 2-step percussion and 'Snowdrift' shuts down with a fourth and final heads-down back-room garage burner that makes you want to move.
The second offering from Mud Trax, a division of MixCult Records is a compilation to remember.
With Dub Tech laid out in all its many forms and moods by a dynamic assortment of rhythms, it is nothing less than exquisitely fresh pop manipulative.The album features contributions from Kirill Matveev, Ataneus, Genning and Etzu Mahkayah. With an electrifying mix of dub's sprawling scope and acid's driving rhythm, even a record that pushes sound the way this one does can come off totally funky.
Kirill Matveev & Wiklauri's Ioli (Kirill's Version) makes for a promising opening, melding into deep dub its ethos of acid, a psychedelic blend that touches the nerves of those who love to dance. Ataneus takes it further on A2 with Napolitaner, a track that is like nothing else: dense, dub-coloured layers of sound, which create a steadily seductive momentum able to steal listeners away into temporal plunge.
On the other side, B1's Red Lights by Genning is at once a punchy piece and a dancefloor phalanx of sound. A work meticulously sculpted by the speakers, yet redolent with natural energy-Geistgemäss.
The journey is brought to a close by Etzu Mahkayah's Cs-137 on B2, hypnotic grooves offering equal parts reflectivity and pumping energy.
Taken together these tracks provide an experience that is euphoric yet absorbing, each not only embodying Dub Tech but also pushing it in new directions.
Roberto Musci, born in Milan in 1956, studied guitar, music and electronic instruments. From 1974 to 1985 he traveled the world studying African, Indian, Arabic and Oriental music, recording ethnic music “in the field,” studying and collecting ethnic musical instruments from all over the world. His self-produced debut album, “The Loa of Music,” is a seminal work of staggering originality and extraordinary beauty in which field recordings, musique concrète, electronics, synthesis and instrumentation are interwoven, drawing on the countless musics from around the world that he has recorded. The subsequent “Water messages on desert sand,” composed with Giovanni Venosta, was nominated for a Grammy in the UK in 1987. In the 1980s and 1990s he broadcast ethnic and electronic-experimental music from Rai and Radio Popolare radio stations. He has also composed and played music for videos, commercials, dance, poetry, theater, composed soundtracks and accompanied silent films live. From 1980 to the present, he has played with many Italian and European musicians: Giovanni Venosta, Claudio Gabbiani, Walter Prati, Giorgio Magnanensi, Massimo Cavallaro, Massimo Mariani, Moni Ovadia, Roberto Zorzi, Chris Cutler, Jon Rose David Moss, Steve Piccolo, Elliott Sharp, Keith Tippett and the Third Ear Band.
The theme of travel, ethnicities and mysticism are a pivotal point in this new album of his as well, demonstrating once again how music needs absolutely no sharp lines of demarcation. The music is one.
It goes from the search for deep meanings in a time spent in a Hindu monastery (Ashram) listening to mantras and studying Buddhist philosophy (The Principle Of Things) to space explorations and human settlements on the Moon or Mars wondering how man will live and what he will bring to the new worlds imagining that Sufism, an Islamic mystical religion, will accompany him in the discovery of new worlds (Derviches On Mars). In Goodbye Monsters, harmony and peace are sought. Memories Of A Piano Player is a tribute to Keith Tippett, a great pianist (King Crimson , Centipede, Mujician) with whom he played in several concerts and with whom I spent evenings talking about music, food and Italian wine. Quantum State focuses on how quantum mechanics is creating a revolution in the way of thinking and dividing reality into infinite Parallel Worlds. Panthalassa is the vast ocean that surrounded Pangea and blends South American marimba music and traditional Chinese music. Burn The Shadows is a tribute to the fascinating Indonesian shadow theater, from the stories told and the atmosphere created during the long plays told in the sacred Indian texts of Ramayana or Mahabharata. Shadows are also more or less pleasant memories to which one is attached, and to burn them is still to move on with one's life.
Torajan Funeral Chant: The Toraja are a people living in Sulawesi (Indonesia) who have a special worship of the dead. Funerals are festivals that last several days, the corpses are protected by Tau-Tau (small dolls that watch over cemeteries), and over the years, they exhume the corpses of their relatives and keep them in their homes with them for a time to remember them.
The experimentation goes all the way to modern Artificial Intelligence that 'interrogated' to create something new by inserting conflicting inputs joins them together but nonsensically creating interesting insights; hence A.I. In Confusion. Pangea, named after the continent that contained all the land that emerged between 540 and 200 million years ago, in the Paleozoic and Mesozoic periods, imagined as inhabited by man without divisions created by borders, wars, religions or ethnic groups, is also a tribute to Steve Reich, one of the fathers and a great musician of minimal music. Prophecies, a reading of sacred texts and religious songs from evangelical sects in the United States filtered into granular synthesis with percussion music from South India, closes.
- A1: Paternal Curse
- A2: Star Fallen Feat. J-Shadow
- A3: Three Of Me, One Of You
- B1: No Fuckry
- B2: Hadanar Melody
- B3: Not Surprised Feat. Lee Scott
- B4: Stepford Lives Feat. E.m.m.a
- C1: Blue Note
- C2: Halloween Blue
- C3: Crusht Wings
- C4: Prayer Wheel (Left You Fi Dead) Feat. Killa P
- D1: Heatmap Feat. Emz
- D2: Inside The Box
- D3: Amnixiel
True Sneaker Social die-hard Etch returns with a monumental new album. Scream of the Butterfly shows the depth and breadth of one of the illest producers operating across the many spheres of club music with a distinct “you ‘kay?” slant.
From the moment the low-end pressure and loaded samples rear their heads on the opening track, Zak Brashill demonstrates his intent to sculpt Scream Of The Butterfly as a proper album — an end-to-end listening experience full of peaks and troughs which focus on sonic storytelling much more than club functionality. Throughout his imperious output to date, the man like Etch has displayed an affinity for sound design to match his instinct for what bangs on the spectrum of dubstep, garage, jungle and hip-hop, but now he’s gone postal on soundworld-building, with a grip of heavyweights drafted in to help set the scene.
Fellow Sneaker alumnus J-Shadow lends his maverick footwork science to ‘Star Fallen’, while UK rap anti-royalty Lee Scott brings his unmistakable Runcorn drawl to dusky head-nodder ‘Not Surprised’. UK bass-synth-ambient enigma E.M.M.A drops in for the moody, meandering midpoint ‘Stepford Lives’, and Killa P and Emz deliver blazing bars to the double dose of ‘Prayer Wheel (Left You Fi Dead)’ and ‘Heat Map’ respectively.
Elsewhere Brashill follows his own razor-sharp instincts into warping stop-start drum science, widescreen downtempo with teeth, seasick synth studies, moody-but-cosy 140 and lots more besides. Nothing comes as standard, but Scream of the Butterfly is ruff when it wants to be, subtle and spacious if the vibe demands it, and consistently packed full of the detail and intrigue that we’ve come to expect from one of the most inventive and reliably sick producers in the contemporary bassweight firmament.
- A1: Baddest Behavior Feat Brandon Markell Holmes (Original Mix)
- A2: Freed 4 Og's W/ Coto Loco, Feat Rasheeda Ali
- A3: I Be Like Dat
- B1: Baddest Behavior Feat Brandon Markell Holmes (Dam Swindle Remix)
- B2: Baddest Behavior (Robert Pm Edit)
- B3: Baddest Behavior Feat Brandon Markell Holmes (Dam Swindle Instrumental Remix)
We're back with another heavy release for the soundsystems.
This time we welcome Boomarm Nations own Gulls to the label.
Hailing from his dojo in Portland, Oregon, Gulls delivers us a
meditative dub hybrid, combining elements of dub, hip hop and contemporary electronica. The tune is called ''So Blessed'' and is topped by the fine voice of Wayne Daniel outta Kingston, Jamaica.
''So Blessed'' got exactly the vibe you'll need in this challenging time. Keep your head up, feel gifted for what you've got and give something back to the people around you. This tune's backing you up.
If that wasn't enough, the Portland rapper Madgesdiq steps pon the mic for some blazin' bars in his signature conscious style.
Get lost in this wicked production while heading right into the dub version to exceed the border between music and meditation.
To feel the sound through your body and soul, LXC lifted the frequencies again.
Während die FOGHAT Fans bereits sehnsüchtig auf den Nachfolger des jüngsten Chartstürmers "Sonic Mojo" warten, veröffentlicht die Band den brandneuen Tribut-Song, "On Tonsils & Sneakers", welcher dem im Jahr 2000 verstorbenen Leadsänger und Gitarristen Lonesome Dave Peverett gewidmet ist.
Die Inspiration für den liebevolle Titel des Songs stammt von Peveretts charakteristischem Bühnen-Intro "...and on tonsils and sneakers, I'm Lonesome Dave" und ist eine Hommage an die kultigen, silbern oder golden glänzenden Turnschuhe, die er immer auf der Bühne trug.
"Black Days & Blue Nights", die B-Seite der 7" Single stammt von "Sonic Mojo. Der Song wurde von der aktuellen FOGHAT Besetzung im Gedenken an Rod Price, den 2005 verstorbenen, ursprünglichen Slide-Gitarristen der Band komponiert.
Gründungsmitglied Roger Earl hält die Musik von FOGHAT weiterhin am Leben, wobei er den Wurzeln der Band stets Respekt zollt und das bleibende Vermächtnis von Dave und Rod zu würdigen weiß.
Black Zodiac is a science-fiction sonic piece in which the oblique movement of harmonies allows conversations with other existences. It is a galactic chant created by the words of Manah Depauw and the web of sounds of Ben Bertrand
Schlammpeiziger, who had previously only been known to us for his top hits and T-shirts, burst upon us like a wild boar in search of affection in the middle of the coronavirus lockdown. He nested in our fully vaccinated home, drank our Eversbusch, ate from our plates, slept in our bed (wait - wrong fairy tale) and repeatedly urged us to organise egg runs with his testicles (after some contortions, we gave up trying). Childish faecal humour, far-fetched obs(t)enities, juicing, a desire to dissolve, composting of thoughts. In excesses of lack of concentration, the chains of associations curled and meandered like Jo's famous curlicue drawings. Every evening, after we had forcibly levered him out of our flat, he would ‘walk’ home to put together very unique , dreamy pieces. In the blissful brainfog of those days, for example, ‘Handicapfalter’ was created, for which the congenial °Bär° made our flat into the corresponding video. Among other quirks of the little gut-breather, we were fascinated to observe his phobia of literature and books. Just hold a printed page in front of his face for a few seconds and he writhes on the floor crying. A level of phobia that only my own laughable disgust and fear of writing myself can compete with. Jo shudders at the thought of reading sentences that build on each other in a meaningful way, and I shudder at the thought of having to write them down because I have something ‘to say’. A certain affinity cannot be denied. We are much, much more pleased by snatched-up, misunderstood or misheard snippets, hollow but unforgettable phrases, the diamond stoner humour of our ancestors. ‘From one turn/ I stop/ to walk on/ in all directions’ (as it murmurs in “Selten Gesehenes”), describes the process quite nicely. After all, Jo is ahead of me in that he can simply break off every tedious sentence and let it fade into music. Back to the essentials. It's five to 12 for the Schlammpeitzger (scientifically Misgurnus). The shy goby is under threat from climate change, so perhaps this vinyl is the last expression of life of the specimen that we have been allowed to look after sporadically since the lockdown phase of the corona epidemic. And it's turned out pretty. Even the aesthetically gutted like me and my beloved husband can THINK about sex when they see these sublime, silvery fart bubbles! It's tender as a fart. Make love!!!!!
Schamlose Dubtöse: Do you have words. Do you have sounds. Impertinently harmless piano tinkling turns into tugging zounds of increasing severity. It is not dubbed (would be unethical) but dubbed. Sounds dubby, as you can imagine. (Instrumental)
Loch ohne Licht: Possibly vaguely misogynistic. Could also be that there was simply no light in the hole. The sparse snippet of lyrics (‘du biss mir och esu e Loch ohne Licht’) sounds like one of those stroppy Cologne replicas whose anti-charm is hard to resist. Buzzing and grooving.
Selten Gesehenes: Casual. Confident. Soft. Fragrant. Thoughtful but lively.
The Arabian Vietmanese (instrumental) is probably the food we trust in the case of the munchies we get when we watch other people smoking weed. Transcendental and psychedelic states casually permeate the humdrum of everyday life. Klar Knuspermarsch: Marches and floats at the same time. Klebt Runner: Soundtrack to the cult film of the same name. Tyrrell Corporation loosens up. Ungenutzte Sätze: Stinks somehow, because there is dangerous proximity to comprehensible and then also critical statements here. Instead, the sinister electronic cheapness of Carpenter soundtracks can be heard. Parzipan: Actually, the time of origin was not so roaringly funny and simple, but for Jo it was also a gruelling, slow letting go of his brother. Here he sends him off with a gentle nudge into the vastness of a hopefully happy beyond.
Clara Drechsler
Schlammpeiziger, der uns bislang nur durch seine Top-Hits und seine T-Shirts bekannt gewesen war, brach mitten im Corona-Lockdown über uns herein wie ein wilder Eber auf der Suche nach Zuwendung. Er nistete sich in unserem durchgeimpften Zuhause ein, trank unseren Eversbusch, aß von unseren Tellerchen, schlief in unserem Bettchen (Moment - falsches Märchen) drängte uns wiederholt dazu, mit seinen Hoden Eierlauf zu veranstalten (nach Verrenkungen gaben wir den Versuch auf). Kindischer Fäkalhumor, weit hergeholte Obs(t)zönitäten, Entsaftung, Auflösungswunsch, Gedankenkompostierung. In Exzessen der Konzentrationsschwäche ringelten, kringelten und schlängelten sich die Assoziationsketten wie bei Jos berühmten Kringel-Schlängel-Zeichnungen. Jeden Abend, nachdem wir ihn gewaltsam aus unserer Wohnung gehebelt hatten, „ging“ er dann heim, um dort sehr eigene, verträumte Stücke zusammenzubasteln. Im seligen Brainfog dieser Tage entstand z.B. „Handicapfalter“, für das der kongeniale °Bär° aus unserer Wohnung das entsprechende Video machte. Neben anderen Marotten des kleinen Darmatmers beobachteten wir fasziniert seine Literatur- bzw. Bücherphobie. Halt ihm nur sekundenlang eine bedruckte Seite vors Gesicht, und er windet sich weinend am Boden. Ein Grad an Phobizität, mit dem sich nur meine eigene lachhafte Abscheu und Angst vor dem Selberschreiben messen kann. Jo schaudert beim Gedanken, sinnvoll aufeinander aufbauende Sätze lesen, mir wiederum beim Gedanken, sie hinschreiben zu müssen, weil ich irgendetwas „zu sagen“ habe. Eine gewisse Verwandtschaft ist nicht zu leugnen. Viel, viel mehr freuen uns aufgeschnappte, falsch verstandene oder misshörte Fetzen, hohle, aber unvergessliche Phrasen, der diamantene Kifferhumor unserer Vorfahren. „Aus einer Drehung/bleibe ich stehen/ um in alle Richtungen/weiter zu gehen“ (wie es in „Selten Gesehenes“ raunt), beschreibt den Prozess schon ganz schön. Immerhin hat Jo mir voraus, dass er jeden leidigen Satz einfach abbrechen und in Musik ausplempern lassen darf. Zurück zum Wesentlichen. Es ist fünf vor 12 für den Schlammpeitziger (wissenschaftlich Misgurnus). Die scheue Grundel ist von Klimawandel bedroht, vielleicht haltet ihr mit diesem Vinyl also die letzte Lebensäußerung des Exemplars in Händen, das wir seit der Lockdownphase der Corona-Epidemie sporadisch betreuen durften. Und die ist hübsch geworden. Selbst aus ästhetischer Erwägungen Entdarmte wie ich und mein geliebter Mann, können bei diesen sublimen, silberhellen Pupsbläschen DENNOCH an Sex denken! It´s zart as a fart. Make love!!!!!
Schamlose Dubtöse: Hast du Worte. Hast du Töne. Impertinent harmloses Klavierplätschern geht über in ziepende Zounds von zunehmender Strenge. Es wird nicht domptiert (wäre unethisch) sondern dubtiert. Klingt dubtig, wie ihr euch vorstellen könnt. (Instrumental)
Loch ohne Licht. Möglicherweise vage misogyn. Könnte auch sein, dass im Loch einfach kein Licht war. Das sparsame Textfetzchen („du biss mir och esu e Loch ohne Licht“) klingt nach einer jener pampigen kölschen Repliken, deren Anticharme man sich schwer entziehen kann. Schwirrt und groovt.
Selten Gesehenes: Lässig. Souverän. Softig. Duftig. Nachdenklich aber beschwingt.
Beim Arabischen Vietmanesen (Instrumental) gibt es wahrscheinlich die Speise unseres Vertrauens im Falle der Munchies, die wir kriegen, wenn wir anderen Leuten beim Kiffen zusehen. Transzendentale und psychedelische Zustände durchziehen beiläufig den schnöden Alltag. Klar Knuspermarsch: Marschiert und schwebt zugleich.
Klebt Runner: Soundtrack zum gleichnamigen Kultfilm. Tyrrell Corporation macht sich locker. Ungenutzte Sätze: Stinks irgendwie, weil hier gefährliche Nähe zu nachvollziehbarer und dann auch noch kritischer Aussage gegeben ist. Dafür klingt die sinistre elektronische Billigkeit von Carpenter-Soundtracks an.
Parzipan: Eigentlich war die Entstehungszeit gar nicht so brüllend lustig und einfach, sondern für Jo auch ein zermürbendes, langsames Loslassen des Bruders. Hier schickt er ihn mit sanftem Schubs hinaus in die Weiten eines hoffentlich schönen Jenseits.
Clara Drechsler
Downloads
As the tenth candle flickers atop the torta alla panna, Archeo Recordings play the Uno reverse card, breaking with tradition to give us a gift in celebration of its birthday: the first in a series of exquisite EPs on which the label's favourite contemporaries pay homage to past masters. Each re-polished gem is plucked either directly from the beatific back catalogue of the fine Florentine label or is at least Archeo-adjacent, perhaps a sign of future wonders to come. Like a musical version of Janus, who can be found at the heart of Bertoldo di Giovanni's frieze in the Medici villa, Archeo Recordings will continue to look forwards and backwards to provide sublime sounds for us all.
Pepe Maina officially joined the Archeo family in 2019 with the much-needed reissue of his 1979 masterpiece Scerizza (AR015), but his astounding music has been a constant companion to label head Manu for much longer. An inter-dimensional, multi-instrumental maverick, Maina weaves the frayed edges of prog rock, new age, organic jazz and global minimalism into a shimmering tapestry all of his own. The results are spread across fifty years and almost as many albums, largely self-released and always absolutely untarnished by commercial concerns.
Based in a small village in the hills of Brianza, just north of Milan, Maina translates the beauty of his surroundings into transformative tone poems, and the folkloric fusion of "The Infinite", originally released on his 2014 CD Tales From The Hill, is the perfect example of his practice. It opens with a recitation of Giacomo Leopardi's 1825s poem "L'Infinito" by famed Italian actor Vittorio Gassman. A leading figure in the romantic movement, Leopardi explores the idea of time and space within the natural world, and the peace that comes with an appreciation of the immensity of eternity. Manu, longtime digger and now a burgeoning producer, expands upon the original with tribal percussion, chirping electronics and a spheric bassline, folding Maina's elegant strings and gossamer pads into a new arrangement suited for a slow dance under the stars.
Unless you had a well-trained ear tuned to Italy's avant-jazz scene, chances are your first encounter with innovative flautist Roberto Aglieri came via the 2017 Archeo reissue of hisalmost untraceable LP Ragapadani (AR011). It's a true testament to Manu's digging credentials that he snatched this masterpiece out of the esoteric atmosphere and brought it attention it so richly deserved. A delicate union of digital synthesis and versatile flute - be it soft and silvery or
brilliant and clear - the 1987 album was a shapeshifting masterpiece, replaying scenes from Virgil, Verdi, Visconti and Pasolini with a neon glow. Quintessentially Italian, but uncanny and previously unimagined - Penthouse and Portico perhaps. Powered by a percolating prototechno sequence, cascading keys, hallucinogenic vocal snippets and a variety of tonal timbres from Roberto's reed, "Danza N. 1" long deserved the praise reserved for Jean-Luc Ponty's pinnacle, so many thanks to Manu for our collective introduction. The tall task of reinterpreting this particular paragon falls to Perugian polymath Daniele Tomassini AKA Feel Fly, whose peerless skills as both producer and musician have delighted DJs and dancers alike. Hot on the heels of his diverse and definitive remixes of Tony Esposito for AR027, Daniele delivers a radical rework of "Danza N. 1" perfect for both day rave sunshine and full moon party alike. Enhanced by snapping breaks and a rattling kick, the bassline gurgle emerges as a progressive powerhouse, laying the foundation for the trilling flute and circular keys to cast a psychedelic spell. As the slow-Goa revival picks up pace, this one is way ahead of the pack.
Archeo take us all the way back to the start of its story here - well almost. Though it bore the stamp AR001 (2015), this Radio Band reissue actually hit shelves months after Tony Esposito's "Je-Na' / Pagaia"; a false start perhaps but a true classic all the same. Radio Band were a group of DJs from Florence who all sailed the airways of Radio Fantasy in 1984 and whose one and only release was this super groovy slice of Italo-boogie. Following the example of Milanese DJs Band of Jocks but far surpassing their formulaic funk fizzle, Radio Band employed an intergalactic bassline, cosmic keys and that undeniably Italian style of rapping to deliver a sophisticated party-starter which even found its way to disco deity Ron Hardy. Back to the here and now, and if you've found yourself pumping an ecstatic fist to a supercharged Italian epic of late, chances are its from the mind of the mysterious Radiomarc. Operating on the ascendent Popcorn Groove imprint, this shadowy figure steers his country's lost classics into peaktime territories, finding a sweet spot between late Italo-disco, early Italo-house and contemporary cool. Pushing the tempo with a club-ready 4/4, setting the sequencer to stun and supplementing the original melodies with a series of synth riffs, the mystery producer send this one into orbit. Radio Band - Radio Rap - Radiomarc, the circle is complete.
Few have done more to develop cross-cultural musical exchange than Futuro Antico. A collaborative venture from musician, archeologist and ethnomusicologist Walter Maioli, keyboardist and tonal theoretician Riccardo Sinigaglia and multi-disciplinary artist and composer Gabin Dabiré, Futuro Antico formed in Milan in 1979, combining ancient international folkloric traditions with otherworldly electronics. The result is an arresting melange of Mediterranean, African and Asian instrumentation, mimicked by esoteric synth tones and hypnotic minimalism, which the group perfected on their acclaimed 1990 LP Dai Primitivi All'Elettronica. The meditative and transportive "Pan Tuning" belongs to their largely overlooked 2005 CD only release Intonazioni Archetipe, and has been amongst Manu's most loved tracks from the first moment he heard it. Who else is better placed to reshape this evocative opus into an immersive, transcendental dance floor journey than label favourites Mushrooms Project? The duo sows the original elements into a sprawling fifteen minute fusion of séance and science, at times propulsive with a ritualist rhythm of tuned percussion and crunching drum machine at others drifting off into ethereal ambience. Mushrooms Project continue to push the boundaries of the Afro-cosmic style, and this remix marks a new zenith.
- A1: The Meditation Singers - Let Them Talk
- A2: Charlie Brown - The Whole World Is Watching
- A3: Martha Bass - Since I've Been Born Again
- A4: The Williams Singers - So Good To Be Alive
- A5: The Faithful Wonders - Ol' John (Behold Thy Mother)
- A6: The Salem Travelers - Crying Pity And A Shame
- B1: The East St Louis Gospelettes - Soon I Will Be Done
- B2: Power And Light Choral Ensemble - Stand Up America, Don't Be Afraid
- B3: The Masonic Wonders - Just To Behold His Face
- B4: The Majestic Choir & The Soul Stirrers - Why Am I Treated So Bad
- B5: The Jordan Singers - My Life Will Be Sweeter
- B6: Lucy Rodgers - I'm Fighting For My Rights
- C1: The East St Louis Gospelettes - I'll Take Care Of You
- C2: The Williams Singers - Don't Give Up
- C3: The Soul Stirrers - Don’t You Worry
- C4: The Meditation Singers - I've Done Wrong
- C5: The Jordan Singers - Lord Have Mercy
- C6: The Kindly Shepherds - Lend Me Your Hand
- C7: The Violinaires - Groovin' With Jesus
- D1: Cleo Jackson Randle - Life In Heaven Is Free
- D2: The Violinaires - Mother’s Last Prayer
- D3: The Inspirational Singers - Bless Me
- D4: The Bells Of Joy - Give An Account At The Judgement
- D5: Stevie Hawkins - Same Old Bag
- D6: The Soul Stirrers - Striving
Gospel melts into Soul in this dazzling collection of sides originally released by the Chess subsidiary.
Devised by the same team supporting the likes of Muddy Waters and Etta James at Chess, the vintage of Checker Gospel celebrated here is distinguished by its expertly raw, rugged, live feel — thumping bass and pounding drums, bluesy guitar and horns — and its keen engagement with contemporary realities and politics, with an underlying, unwavering commitment to the Civil Rights movement. Not forgetting its sheer, startling, richly diverse soulfulness.
Key architects of the Chicago Sound and Motown are amongst the scores of contributors: Charles Stepney, Gene Barge, Eddie Kendricks, and Leonard Caston Jr. are in the house… Morris Jennings, drummer on Curtis’ Superfly and Terry Callier’s What Color Is Love… Louis Satterfield from The Pharaohs and Earth Wind & Fire… Ramsey Lewis’ guitarist Byron Gregory… Phil Upchurch… Laura Lee…
Producer Monk Higgins joined Checker in 1967, bringing his experience of R&B and Gospel hit-making for the labels One-derful and Satellite, together with a loyal cohort of musicians. A protege of Willie Dixon, engineer Malcolm Chisholm set up the Ter Mar studio as if preparing for a live gig, carefully teasing measures of bleed into the microphones. With Ralph Bass from King Records running A&R, they knew exactly what they were after. ‘I’m using horns and an R&B sound in gospel recordings,’ said Bass. ‘We have no charts. All the musicians are given the chord changes. I want the cats to think when we’re cutting. I want spontaneity, and that’s what we’re getting.’ And: ‘There is more to gospel than just finding solace in the church. This follows the same message of Martin King, who was fighting for a new way of life. Kids are tired of hearing Jesus Give Us Help. They want a positive message.’
Focussed on the late sixties and early seventies, the twenty-five recordings here are all killer no filler, but try these four, random entry points: the heavy funk ostinato of the Violinaires’ Groovin’ With Jesus, working itself up into a post-James-Brown brass frenzy, sure to knock your socks off; Cleo Jackson Randle’s title track, for those who like their Gospel straight-up and hard-core; Eddie Kendricks’ achingly timely choral call-to-arms, Stand Up America, Don’t Be Afraid; the East St Louis Gospelettes’ heart-stopping, fathoms-deep rendition of Bobby Bland’s I’ll Take Care Of You.
A beautiful gatefold sleeve; a full-colour booklet with excellent notes by Robert Marovich; top-notch sound. Another knockout selection by Greg Belson and David Hill.
A shoo-in for soul compilation of the year.
This Summer The Florentian Cabaret showcases his sound once more as he explores new creative avenues with the launch of his own eponymous label. The label will give the thriving Italian talent a chance to showcase the full spectrum of his sound with no boundaries, sharing all of his refined tastes, and influences he has absorbed over the years. The “Space. Time. Gravity.” EP features four classy cuts, timeless trips inside the mind of The Florentian Cabaret.
Playful drum patterns lead the way in the title track, conversing in harmony with the nostalgic 80s synths, teasing you down an animated path of disco leaning house energy. Emotional textures crafted for the dance floor moments. “Stairs On Mars” is built upon an underground energy of time gone by, slick hi-hats drive the track in combination with a raw and rugged bass, nodding towards the heydays of rave. Distinct and progressive peak time movements steering the release into an alternative direction.
“Rocket’90 leads you down a pacey path of low end paradise, in combination with spaced infused acid tones. A transition track for when you want to switch things up, and steer the dance floor to new heights. Hypnotic as it moves, progressing into classy peak time action as the atmosphere continues to simmer. Next up we have the aptly named “Stars”, as this pulsating and driven track will take you exactly there. Nostalgic drums maintain a steady and transcending groove, conversing with the mechanical pads and synths which spiral around the heart of the track. Constructed for the rave, and the tastemakers of modern dance music!
An appetite for the unknown" - Daniel Lanois
No collaboration is unlikely when the end goals are the same. A meeting of two artists who illustrate different corners of the musical landscape, come together to create a new statement that takes their collective strengths to higher elevations and encompasses new terrains.
So it is on the first collaborative journey of Canadian musicians Venetian Snares and Daniel Lanois. What started as mutual respect for one another's work, led to several years of a creative germination resulting in an eight-track full-length exploration released May 4th on Timesig/Planet Mu.
The path began in 2014, after Lanois reached out to Venetian Snares (Aaron Funk) as a fan of his work. The project started to take root in Summer of 2016, after Funk hung around Toronto between shows. Taking his gear to Lanois' studio, the two began to play for the first time together in what would prove to be a formative moment in their creative journey together.
I love making music with Dan, he has a real understanding of how to create a world and build what may exist within that world. Bassdrums are trombones and they are a colossal whale which floats on clouds of leaves speaking to the blast furnace feeding the mammoth. A small painting of forest horses hangs in the cranium of the sea horse.' - Aaron Funk
Recorded live in a former Buddhist temple-turned-studio in Toronto,
'Venetian Snares x Daniel Lanois' travels to new zones in what Lanois describes as a body of work driven by exploration'. Like all the best collaborations, it's brought something new out of both musicians. Equipped with their production acuity, they let their natural workflow guide them through uncharted waters. Funk laid the groundwork with drums while Lanois rode the pedal steel, weaving their sounds together in a new sonic tapestry. The two ultimately landed at their destination, their work ready to be shared with those willing to explore.
In Daniel Lanois 'own words:
"To come upon a new form reassures the head that frontier lives on The unlikely pairing of Venetian Snares and Daniel Lanois may very well have provided us with a nice new pair of shoes to walk to new sonic frontier A melange of gospel and electronics As madness of the world trips over its heels these Canadian sonic innovators prepare for travel A body of work driven by exploration, brings to us in our modern times what we remember and admire from the Jazz explorations of the 50s A splintering An appetite for the unknown"
Here at Mr Bongo we have been inundated with people asking us to reissue this release. Ana Frango Elétrico's petit cult classic masterpiece 'Little Electric Chicken Heart' from 2019, which was only ever released on vinyl and CD in Brazil and Japan, has fast become a collector's item.
Well received by fans, DJs, and reviewers on release, The Needle Drop expressed "Ana Frango Elétrico's authentically vintage fusion of chamber pop, rock, samba and jazz is a real blast!" listing it as one of its Top 50 Albums of 2019. The album's reputation has been slowly building ever since, gaining a Latin Grammy nomination in 2020, and now solidly cementing itself as a gem of contemporary Brazilian music.
Across the albums nine tracks, Ana blends elements and influences from MPB, Tropicália, indie rock, punk and pop, forging them together with a sumptuous dose of her signature style. The finesse of 'Saudade' kicks off the LP, one of Ana's most known tracks to a non-Brazilian audience. A sublime opener, beginning with a spellbinding piano solo before transcending into a beautiful dream-laden slice of warmth, complete with luscious jazzy horns and deft vocal delivery. ‘Promessa e previsões’ follows, the only track on the album not to be written by Ana, instead being penned by Chico França. It’s a swelling and sweeping twilight groover, building and breaking across absorbing peaks.
Other highlights on the album include the anthemic 'Chocolate', which was a firm favourite with a packed sing-along crowd when we heard Ana perform it live. Elsewhere, 'Se No Cinema' hits with its quirky allure, charm and catchy melodies before transforming into a carnival spirit.
Tapping into the richness of Brazil’s new wave of musical energy, the album also includes a heavyweight lineup of collaborations with artists such as Dora Morelenbaum (Bala Desejo), Tim Bernardes, Antonio Neves and Guilherme Lirio to name but a few.
A short, sweet and refreshing record, that leaves nothing to waste, marrying playful ideas with poignant themes. 'Little Electric Chicken Heart' is a future classic and will beguile fans of ‘70s Brazilian recordings, Gal Costa, Mac DeMarco, Stereolab, Superorganism, Caetano Veloso and more.
2025 Repress
Demi Riquisimo’s Semi Delicious celebrates its 20th release with a peak-time 4-track EP from Leeds-based production talent, Kepler— another stand out addition to the label’s impressive catalogue, dropping on 29th November.
Opening the Ep is ‘Step Up,’ a sub-bass-driven journey that layers relentless percussive grooves, squelchy acid lines, and proggy chord hooks, encapsulating the quintessential Semi Delicious vibe.
Next up, ‘Swoon’ glides in with a playful FM- bass lead, steering the track’s flow while staccato vocal stabs and soothing pads create a perfectly balanced, dancefloor-ready arrangement.
On the B- side, ‘Acid Flow’ delivers as promised, with classic 303 leads and smooth basstones, set against Kepler’s signature drum palette for a distinct yet timeless feel.
Rounding off the EP, ‘Separation’ brings a swing-infused, stab by house vibe—a nod to classic US house, yet unmistakably stamped with Kepler’s unique UK tech-house sound.
In the intricate maze of Tokyos neon heartbeat, Yuki Takasaki, known as Altone, creates a world where time and sound dissolves into dub techno. Altones work, steeped with an old-school sonic palette, is a symphony of resonating bass lines, rustic layers and delicate synths, crafting a port rait that connects the fleeting with the timeless. Altones music t ranscends mere sound, offering an invitation to explore the shadowy corridors of consciousness and minimal dub aesthetics. Each original track unfolds like a tranquil journey through an urban nocturne, haunting and beautiful in its harmony. Brendon Moeller, a master of dub techno, reimagines Altones >Self Replication< In two distinct yet sonic territories. The first remix pulses with a futuristic rhythm, its syncopated beats dancing on the edge of awareness. The dub remix, by cont rast, plunges into a vortex where liquid acid intertwines with hypnotic bass lines, conjuring a dreamscape infused with laser guided drums and crystalline texture. Through these remixes, Moeller crafts a sonic voyage that weaves through the complex tapestry of the dub landscape and keeps reminding us that the territory is still vastly unexplored.
Repress!
“Natale in tangenziale” (“Christmas on the highway”) – available in all digital stores and in 7” format – marks an extraordinary tribute to the timeless Italo Disco style and captures the charm of an Italian Christmas, almost like in a dystopian “cinepanettone” (the stereotypical Italian, Christmas-themed, comedy movie).
The record is a creation by Maurizio & Dandolo, and represents the debut of Mirella Records, a label founded by Cosimo Mandorino, already known for several projects in the italo and electronic styles on specialized labels such as Best Record, Slow Motion Records, Disco Segreta, Bordello A Parigi.
“Natale in tangenziale” will instantly transport you into an Italian Christmas atmosphere, with captivating synthesizers and engaging rhythms. The voices perfectly capture the warmth and joy of the holidays.
The original song is accompanied by a breathtaking remix curated by Whodamanny.The remixer’s unique touch on the special dub version present on the B side adds further rhythmic elements that make it perfect for the dancefloor.
A 45 rpm single from an alternative 1983, to be enjoyed during the holidays; a gift for music lovers and a celebration of Italianness. You can’t help but dance and sing to the rhythm of music, a characteristic that unites two such fundamental aspects of Italian culture.
Merry Christmas on the highway!
Stellar Systems, the latest imprint from the Rings of Neptune crew, readies its first release, "Archived Dreams" — a four-track EP signed by Berlin-based techno luminary Michael Melchner. Drawing influences between electro-charged techno and IDM-tinged minimalism, "Archived Dreams" explores cosmic, genre-blending themes through high-octane machine funk and tons of atmosphere. Crafted with pure analog equipment, the four tracks of the EP capture Melchner’s dedication to pushing sonic boundaries while channelling the raw energy of 90s electronic music.
The EP opens with 'Archived Dreams' (A1), a powerfully hypnotic track of pulsating drums and mesmerizing melodies, layered modular sequences and subtle percussion, setting an entrancing tone. Decollage (A2) dives into breakbeat territory, balancing intricate, syncopated rhythms with deep basslines and shimmering synths. On the B-side, Berlin Phenomena(B1) delivers a groove-laden, robotic vibe—a testament to Melchner’s knack for crafting infectious, funk-inspired rhythms. Closing out the EP, 'OE Underground' (B2) ramps up the intensity, blending raw, mechanical beats with intricate melodic threads to create an entrancing, slightly euphoric finale.
Stellar Systems emerges as an exciting extension of the Rings of Neptune collective dedicated to explore electronic music's rich sonic landscape. From deep, leftfield groovers to dynamic dancefloor stompers, Stellar Systems aims to capture a galactic range of sounds and styles. Michael Melchner, with his body of work — spanning solo projects and collaborations like Omega Men — and his esteemed reputation in the underground techno scene, aligns perfectly with the label's ethos.
The world was a different place in June 2020. Most of us were coming out of a first lockdown and accepting limitations, new fears, and changes in our lives. There was some hope things were going to be better, optimism in the summer, a new beginning. For some, like Molero, it was. He released his first album in June 2020, one he had been working on over the previous years. “Ficciones Del Trópico” felt like a discovery, the synths approached a new world, raw, full of wonder, fresh. It was the sound we needed, the horizon we were longing for.
Four years have passed. Molero spent most of that time thinking about and creating the music for “Destellos Del Éxtasis”. If “Ficciones Del Trópico” lived in the depths of the Amazon jungle, “Destellos Del Éxtasis” releases itself from a physical location/idea and creates upon symbolism and the abstract. The more we listen to it, the more we get lost in how he created music that is shapeless, no angles, constantly morphing, transforming into something else.
Like magic, alchemy, but also like visions, hallucinatory visions, or dreams if dreams could step out into reality. And the more we get lost, the more we are convinced the music from “Destellos Del Éxtasis” is part of us, of our body, present as a permanently passing cloud. It gets into dark places, moving constantly into new ground, testing feelings, emotions and how they gravitate with sound. There’s something different in each track. Like magic. Not magical music (but there’s an argument for that). We prefer music for magic. Ritualistic, celebratory, transformative and increasingly visual. Close your eyes, it will open your perception. Follow the ecstasy, let yourself go. The reward is here.
Parsley Sounds was the glorious debut album for Mo Wax by Parsley Sound. The album was one of the iconic label’s final releases before it closed in 2003 and locating a clean copy has been extremely tricky of late, unless you're flush enough to drop 150 notes on it. Mercifully, the Be With reissue, put together with invaluable assistance from the group, should remedy this situation. It's a lo-fi, bass-heavy, blunted beat treat, warped with heat haze and dreamy soft-psych and has been criminally under-heard for far too long.
As with most cult-like records, Parsley Sounds has many influential fans, far and wide. From Four Tet and Caribou to NTS's modern day breakfast hero Flo Dill, its reputation has only grown in stature. At the time, the notoriously hard-to-please Pitchfork garlanded it with a scarcely achievable 8.8 whilst, just recently, the Numero Group's Rob Sevier described it as a "visionary bit of proto-Salvia Palth (or Steve Lacy)" via a Ghostly International missive.
Parsley Sound comprised super-talented duo Preston Mead and Dan Sargassa. They released an early single (the perfect "Twilight Mushrooms", featured here) on Warp Records as Slum, before signing to Mo Wax. Hidden behind a wall of sound - fuzzy layers of beats, bleeps and symphonic synths - they were convinced they made mainstream pop music. And, in many respects, Parsley Sounds really is a beautiful pop album. It overflows with memorable, gorgeous melodies and inspired songcraft. As the contemporaneous Pitchfork review correctly had it: "Parsley Sounds is one of those rare records that manage to sound modest while frequently pushing the sonic envelope."
Killer opener "Ease Yourself And Glide" is a thing of aching, soft-psych, wonky beat-beauty. A melodic masterpiece, part Crosby, Stills & Nash, part proto-Koushik, it presents a melancholy falsetto, surging bass and blunted lead guitar. As it climaxes, gorgeous strings are ushered in to see us out. Sublime. "Twilight Mushrooms" is up next and it's an acid-drenched, strung-out acoustic-led campfire wonder. Amid layers of tape-hiss and beautiful, sun-dappled strings, its understated vocal track provides a haze of wistful innocence.
The breezy "Spring's Near" is a krautrock-inspired chiming instrumental of heavenly excellence, its warm, skipping, motorik groove and dreamy synths completely infectious. Another total highlight, the technicolour "Yo Yo" initially presents itself as a more abstract, bleepy offering but as it organically swells into ever more beautiful places, with the addition of a choppy insistent drum loop, flute bursts, horns and sweeping strings, it puts one in mind of early Manitoba and Four Tet releases. Shimmering, blissed-out greatness.
The celestial harmonies and glistening harps of the wonderfully beatless, serenely sullen "Ocean House" are very much in conversation with late-60s meditative psych whilst, closing out Side A, the jaw-dropping, lushly experimental effort "Find The Heat" comes on like Arthur Russell meets Brian Wilson. Yep, *that* good.
Side B opens with the warped, bleepy "Stevie", a brief but beautifully wonky, soulful and intricate instrumental. The more upfront vocals that propel the fuzzy "Platonic Rate" have a refreshing swagger to them, the heavy bass and neck-snapping in-the-red beats too much for any system to deal with whilst the guitars and strings have a sweeping, cinematic feel which just beguiles. The slow, urbane soul of "Candlemice" will stop you in your tracks, no matter what you're doing. It carries a delicate sadness, as does much of the album in that classic "down lifting" style we so love here at Be With.
The fuzzing, buzzing "Templechurchmansions" is a searing, soulful dubwise detonation. Heavily stoned with slow-burning jazzy snatches and a tense, moody atmosphere, it's a Tricky-adjacent gem. The album rounds out brilliantly with the ominous instrumental "Neon Breeze" before giving way to the propulsive, almost incongruous punk-funk / disco-dub of secret "untitled" track "Caution", a scratchy, smacked-out groove-fuelled workout with a female vocal dripping with 'tude. Just sensational.
Under the watchful eye - and attentive ears! - of Parsley Sound themselves, the audio for Parsley Sounds has been carefully mastered by Be With regular Simon Francis, with a few much needed tweaks here and there, according to the artist's wishes. Cicely Balston's expert skills have made sure nothing is lost in the cut whilst the records have been pressed to the highest possible standard at the always stellar Record Industry in Holland.
Preston and Dan always thought the colours on the first vinyl pressing looked a bit "washed out" vis-a-vis the original artwork which was way more vibrant. We feel we've got it popping back to the original intention with the restoration work here at Be With HQ. So with the audio and artwork now approaching completeness after 20 years, this long overdue re-issue could be considered its definitive vinyl release.
Musician and Zoitrax record label owner ZOiD, also known as Daniel Jacobson, announces the release of his sixth album, ZOiD Vs Musicians Vol 2.
Featuring thirteen tracks digitally, seven of which will be released on a 12” purple marbled translucent vinyl album distributed by Rubadub, ZOiD Vs Musicians Vol 2 will be available in record shops and on all streaming services and Bandcamp starting Friday, 22 November 2024.
ZOiD Vs Musicians Vol 2 is an electronic music album showcasing ZOiD's global collaborations with jazz musicians, creating a unique form of electronic jazz. Notably, his work with jazz drummer and brother Matthew Jacobson shines on the first single “Fit In Tree” debuting on September 13. Building on this momentum, the second single, "Module Bone, " featuring jazz trombonist Colm O'Hara, will be released on September 27, followed by the third single, "ZVSW, " featuring saxophonist Steve Welsh, on October 11. A special REMIX EP by Kirk De Giorgio, Sunken Foal, Americhord, and TR-One will be out on October 25.
Expanding the album's diverse sound, ZOiD collaborated with Dublin vocalist, composer, and jazz improvisation specialist Jenna Harris on “ZVJH” and with Niwel Tsumbu, a Cork-based Congolese guitaristwho tours with Rhiannon Giddens on “ZVNT.”
ZOiD Vs Musicians Vol 2 is further enriched by the talents of Shane O’Donovan (H-Ci), who combines electronic and jazz elements, Australian saxophonist Daniel Rorke, US-based free improviser Catherine Sikora, Galwegian multi-instrumentalist Matthew Berrill, Dublin saxophonist Matthew Halpin (flute), and trumpeter Bill Blackmore, a key figure in Dublin's jazz scene.
ZOiD released his debut album, ZOiD Vs The Jazz Musicians of Ireland Vol. 1, in 2007. Production of ZOiD Vs Musicians Vol 2 began soon after, taking nearly 17 years. For Vol. 2, some musicians recorded their parts independently, while others recorded in Arad Studio with Les Keye and ZOiD's Dublin studio.
The album artwork is by New York-based artist Shane Ingersoll. The front cover displays black-and- white illustrations of Dublin in the year 2116, a city at war centred around a bold purple "ZOiD" logo, with the title "ZOiD Vs Musicians Vol 2" on the upper left. On the back cover is a 12-panel comic book story (originally written by ZOiD using stick figures) and a glowing robotic hand.
It happened this summer while we were spending our family breaks in a rural house located in the town of "Cuacos de Yuste" in the region of La Vera, Extremadura (Spain). An idyllic setting in nature that we recommend everyone visit... One night, upon returning home after enjoying the magnificent cuisine of the area, we found a hard drive with a note at the entrance of the house. The message was clear and concise, FOLLOW THE SAME STEPS... Suddenly my body shook and I quickly understood that the ALIEN RAVE contact had occurred again. In line with his successful first vinyl, the alien has given us two only vinyl songs, Misconception and the sublime Deep Space, accompanied by Bilocation and No Gods. If you liked the first Alien Rave vinyl, you can't miss this Electrobreak gem. Will there be future contacts? We are sure that yes..
Mona Lee aka Lissa Callens and WPH label man Red D go a long way back. Red D always knew it was a matter of time before Mona Lee would come up with some music he could not refuse. A gig together and the first notes of ‘The Reason’ and that was that.
Classic house that would make Kerri Chandler proud is the order of the title track. A bright piano melody, a good vocal hook and rough and ready beats in a crisp production that will shake up any dancefloor. Red D himself delivers a dub that focuses on the hooks and makes them shine even more on top of a killer funky bass line. For good U.S. house measure Atlanta’s finest Stefan Ringer steps up to deliver his trademark dusty twist on things. As a bonus you get ‘Spaces & Places’, a delicate organic deep house beauty with Mona Lee scatting ever so subtly to make you go out of your home and out of your head.
It’s house, it’s good and it will make you dance and sing.
Zweifelsfrei prägt Fritz Kalkbrenner den Sound einer ganzen Generation und bringt Dancefloors weltweit zum Beben. Nun kehrt er mit seinem neuesten Album Third Place zurück, welches zweifellos eines der ambitioniertesten und künstlerisch anspruchsvollsten Werke seiner Karriere ist. Mit Third Place nimmt Fritz Kalkbrenner seine Zuhörer mit auf eine tief immersive Reise, die die Schnittpunkte von Musik, Gemeinschaft und Selbstfindung feiert. Das Album schafft eine perfekte Balance zwischen euphorischen Höhepunkten und introspektiven Momenten. Inspiriert vom soziologischen Konzept des „Third Place“ – Orte, an denen Kreativität und Gemeinschaft aufleben – verkörpert das Album die Freiheit und emotionale Befreiung, die man in Clubs und Räumen der Gemeinschaft findet. Im Mittelpunkt des Albums stehen mehrere bereits vorab veröffentlichte Singles. ”Into the Night” hat bereits mit seinen erhebenden Chicago-House-Akkorden und dynamischen Grooves die Dancefloors weltweit erobert. Der Track fängt die Euphorie der Clubkultur perfekt ein und kombiniert Fritz Kalkbrenners gefühlvolle Stimme mit einem unwiderstehlichen Groove. Ebenso beeindruckend ist ”The Telepath”, das nostalgische Warehouse-Vibes mit treibenden Breakbeats verbindet und die energiegeladenen Live-Sets von Fritz Kalkbrenner widerspiegelt
- A1: Vajolet Feat Lukas Lauermann, Wolfgang Pfistermüller & Flip Philipp
- A2: Autostrada Del Brennero Feat Diggory Kenrick
- A3: Latzfonser Kreuz Feat Mamadou Diabate & Hamidou Koita
- A4: Lago Di Garda Feat Roger Robinson
- A5: Alfa Romeo 145 Feat Kwame Yeboah
- B1: Feltuner Hütte Feat Osman Murat Ertel
- B2: Avrupa Köprüsü Feat Osman Murat Ertel
- B3: Europabrücke Feat Susanna Gartmayer
- B4: Ancient Atoll Feat Reinhilde Gamper, Martin Mallaun & Flip Philipp
Cassette[14,92 €]
Ulrich Troyer has been producing music now solidly for over twenty years within a largely genre free framework, but whilst navigating forms such as avant-garde, techno, leftfield, field recording, electronica, glitch and ambient it is the aesthetics of dub that guide his creative direction. Not really recognisable in an orthodox form as remixed versions of roots reggae songs but in the way sonics are manipulated with space, the application and layering of delay, reverb and echo that fixes his output well within the scope of what might be called futurist dub.
The nearest comparisons to his new album TRANSIT TRIBE can only be established by a synthesis of some of the more adventurous explorations in modern music such as African Head Charge, Jon Hassell, Pole (Stefan Betke), Bill Laswell or even Miles Davis; featuring a diverse selection of artists and friends not only from Vienna and environs but also from around the world, sounds are not so much fused but allowed to float along the continuous flowing tide of warm waves of bass.
Rather than to allow the names of Ulrich Troyer's collaborators be merely listed in the album credits, what they bring to this joyful affair needs to be outlined, albeit briefly: Co-producer credits go to Osman Murat Ertel from Istanbul, who employed a variation on the old foolproof Nick Lowe method for checking out the impact quality of his own sound productions by playing tracks through his car sound system speakers!
Murat is a member of the electro-psych-folk group Baba Zula where he plays electric saz, oscillators and theremin and played a key part in the creative development of the album. Mamadou Diabate, the balafon master originally from Burkina Faso and now resident in Vienna, has developed his own unique technique of playing solos that replicate the sound of three instruments playing in unison; however the multi-talented Mamadou is engaged here on singing and playing the talking drum. From South Tyrol Reinhilde Gamper is a member of the experimental trio Greifer who are bringing the sound of the zither into the twenty-first century using new playing techniques and electronic gadgets. Susanna Gartmayer is an Austrian composer and bass clarinetist specialising in improv and multimedia sound research. Diggory Kenrick has been engaged with creating new dub fusions and also re-energising classic rocksteady and roots reggae classics, renowned for his interventions on flute. Didi Kern is an electronic dance musician and drummer from Vienna with a focus on free improvised music. Hamidou Koita, a singer and multi-instrumentalist, is from a traditional Griot family in Burkina Faso but now resident in Vienna and a regular musical partner of Mamadou Diabate playing drums and calabash. Austrian Lukas Lauermann is both a studio and live musician playing cello, also working on electronic sound design and writing string arrangements. He has recorded extensively and appeared on stage with both Mark Lanegan and Hans-Joachim Roedelius. Martin Mallaun is a Tyrol-born specialist in both the development of the zither in modern music and also as a researcher in the effects of climate change on the vegetation of Alpine ecosystems. After studying classical percussion Flip Philipp is now a jazz vibraphone player and member of the Vienna Symphony Orchestra. Wolfgang Pfistermüller is a member of the Vienna Trombone Quartet and the developer of the incredible bass-trombone Aurora with its uniquely warm and resonant sound. Roger Robinson is a renowned British poet, winner of many contemporary poetry prizes and member of the experimental music group King Midas Sound. Kwame Yeboah is a Ghanaian born UK based keyboard wizard who tours regularly with Yusuf / Cat Stevens, Ms. Dynamite and Pat Thomas.
So contained on the album is an astonishing mix of musicians and instruments: sounds of cowbells recorded in the South Tyrolean alps processed by modular synthesizers and heavy analogue bass synths combined with instruments such as zither, bass-zither, electro saz, flute, talking drum, trombone, cello, marimba, djembe, contra-alto clarinet, Farfisa - all bound together by organic live-drums and dub effects.
CWPT welcomes Acopia to the label with a reissue of the cult Australian bands self-titled sophomore album, available on vinyl outside of Australia for the first time.
Based in Melbourne/Naarm, Acopia’s music is a careful control of tension and release, sparseness and warmth, momentum, and space. Across ten tracks, the band’s three members move across post-punk lamentation, shoegazing DnB, smoldering trip hop and subdued electronic pop, as they carve out their own hazy world of romanticism and restraint.
The highly anticipated follow-up to the band’s stellar 2022 debut, ‘Chances’, this is a deeply emotionally sensitive record, equal parts refined and relatable, and a listening journey that is immediately understood while revealing new layers with each subsequent listen.
Alongside the physical release of ‘Acopia’, CWPT will also release two digital-only remixes of the band, courtesy of Daniel Avery and JD Twitch.
WOLF Music welcome Toronto Hustle & Sean Roman to the label with their The Symington Avenue EP for the 77th release on the label. Having previously released of Freerange, the Canadians don’t disappoint with two killer original tracks.
Certified legend, Kai Alce steps up to remix Not Now, Not Ever and it’s just as good as you’d imagine it to be!
Abacus a regular on both Prescription and Guidance Recordings labels in the mid-90’s adds his midas touch to Could This Be, with a tasteful edit to round off the EP.
Real House fans rejoice!
Comprised of Clams Baker Jr., Benjamin Romans Hopcraft, Adam J. Harmer, Marley Mackey, Quinn Whalley, and Bleu Ottis Wright, Too Cold To Hold is undoubtedly their best and most ambitious album to date. Taking on board the repetitive and polyrhythmic grooves of gqom (an alluring South African take on house music), adding in a dash of hip hop flavours and even jazz, and then harnessing that to their punk-funk, disco pogo, it’s a spellbinding mix. The album is produced by the band’s Ben Romans Hopcraft alongside Jamie Neville.
Talking about the first track to be taken from the album, ‘Fashion Week’, which is a joyous account of fashion’s die-hard fans rather than the more visible arrivistes or dilettantes, Clams said: “Those that will do anything to become that thing. That creation. And live it. It’s real artistry when you don’t have the means and you’re doing it. You’re hustling to get on the guest list, you get in, you’re done up by means that you can’t really afford, whatever you do… It’s a celebration of people who will do whatever to look good and feel good and step above wherever they are in their own minds.”
With a reputation as one of the most exciting and mesmerising live bands out there right now, they have also today announced both details of a very special ‘Fashion Week’ launch show at London’s Lexington on 10th July and a run of U.K. / EU dates to coincide with the album release in November – the dates include their biggest London headline show to date at The Troxy. The full list of dates, which is as follows:
LP + insert with extended liner notes and download code including extra bonus track 'Movements of The Mind'.For his second album on the Belgian leftfield imprint Cortizona, Devin Brahja Waldman gathered a group of insanely gifted and talented musicians to start a new and highly moving musical chapter titled 'Nebulizer'.
From the first moment the pulsating tone of Devin's synth blends with the whispering voices of Earth, Wind and Choir and the menacing bells Naima Karlsson set in motion this record you just know and feel immediately 'Nebulizer' will be a soul-searching journey, soaking you deep into an unknown and very personal musical world.
Devin Brahja Waldman is a New York saxophonist, drummer, synthesizer player and composer who leads the group BRAHJA. He has performed with Patti Smith, William Parker, Nadah El Shazly, Malcolm Mooney, Thurston Moore, Godspeed! You Black Emperor, Charles Hayward, Luke Stewart and Yoshiko Chuma. Waldman is also a member of NYC's Heroes Are Gang Leaders (led by poet Thomas Sayers Ellis and saxophonist James Brandon Lewis), of Sam Shalabi's Land of Kush, and of the Norwegian hardcore group MoE.
In 2022 BRAHJA released the critically acclaimed album 'Watermelancholia' on the Belgian leftfield imprint Cortizona. For his second album on the same Cortizona label, Devin Brahja Waldman gathered a group of insanely gifted and talented musicians to start a new and highly moving musical chapter titled 'Nebulizer'.
Together with Adam Kinner, Georgia Wartel Collins, Earth, Wind and Choir, Luke Stewart, Kenichi Iwasa, Naima Karlsson, Alexis Mercelo, Janice Lowe, Watson and Damon Hankoff, Devin forms a slow-burning fireball unity.
A devotional séance channelling unknown powers proving music is a healing force of the universe.
Rejoicing the Holy Jazz Spirit.
Ready to nebulize the world and bring light out from the darkness. Head cleaning the world in 4 musical parts: Geological Drum, Nebulizer, Bushido and Movements of The Mind. Nebulizer is an elevating meditation on our estrangement of nature.
Interstellar sonic stardust from a mindblowing collective that will leave you flabbergasted.
Be prepared and hear it to believe it.
For fans of: Art Ensemble of Chicago, Archie Shepp, Pharoah Sanders, John & Alice Coltrane, Kamasi Washington, Shabaka Hutchings, SAULT, Ill Considered, Jamie Branche, Angel Bat Dawid, Mackaya Craven, Matana Roberts, Sun Ra and other good music.
Bordello A Parigi is delighted to announce the return of Ichisan to the label.
The Slovenian producer draws on the soul of house, the clean lines of electro and smoky grooves of disco for Saturnus. Full-bodied percussion lays a path for curves of keyboard to mingle with throaty basslines, cosmic constellations blooming and bursting in this nine-minute odyssey. Off-kilter keys steady themselves into solid strings for “Rodeo Disko”, bubbles of funk rising to the surface as distant vocoders echo to the distance. An appreciation of the meandering melodies of the late 1970s permeates the three offerings. Percussive patterns shift with “Fujirama”. Droplets of drums gather to a racing rhythm, a spiralling synthline speeds while a thick dauby bass calms the tempo. This close is emblematic of the entire EP, clever and upbeat with an underlying intricacy that illustrates Ichisan’s evolution as an artist.
A welcome return from a wonderful talent.
- A1: Trouble Symphony (Feat. Dj Tennis) (Extended)
- A2: Planet Blue (Feat. Cleo Simone) (Extended)
- A3: The Moment (Feat. Sg Lewis) (Extended)
- B1: Tv Disco (Extended)
- B2: Wish You Knew (Extended)
- B3: Falling (Feat. Mascolo)
- C1: Wait For You (With Elderbrook) (Extended)
- C2: What You Need
- C3: Forever Baby (Extended)
- D1: Comme Ça Voce (Feat. Orofino) (Extended)
- D2: Time
- D3: Little Things (Feat. Julietta)
Die türkisch-italienische DJ, Produzentin und Multiinstrumentalistin Carlita (bürgerl. Carla Frayman) veröffentlicht ihr lang erwartetes Debütalbum, „Sentimental“ bei Ninja Tune!
„Sentimental“ ist der bisherige Höhepunkt von Carlitas musikalischer Reise, an der sie jahrelang gearbeitet hat. Das Album stellt einen kreativen Meilenstein in ihren Produktionen dar, indem es eine klangliche Erzählung aufbaut, die ihre Lebenserfahrungen als Bausteine nutzt. Ein paar dieser Momente, zusammen mit einer Reihe von talentierten Freunden, sind auf „Sentimental“ aus erster Hand zu hören. „Trouble Symphony“ eröffnet das Album mit DJ Tennis, der wie schon zu Beginn von Carlitas Karriere mit am Start ist. SG Lewis, der gefeierte Produzent, der Carlita letztes Jahr bei der New York Fashion Week Show von Senza Fine begleitete, leiht der Leadsingle, „The Moment“, seine Stimme. „Comme Ça Voce“ greift ihre italienischen Wurzeln auf und wird von dem sizilianischen Musiker, Orofino, gesungen. Mascolo, Elderbrook, Julietta und Cleo Simone vervollständigen die Liste der geschätzten Kolleg:innen, die ihre Zeit und ihr Talent zu „Sentimental“ beigetragen haben.
b a2. Roadblock Session Ram Mix
[d] b2. Caling Jahovia [Spring Verb Mix]
[b] a2. Roadblock [Session Ram Mix]
[d] b2. Caling Jahovia [Spring Verb Mix]
- A1: Are We There Yet (Ft West Felton , Howard Wazeerud-Din Ii, Malik Alston)
- A2: Boom Bap Jazz 7 (Ft Dave Mcmurry , Takashi Iio, Malik Alston)
- A3: We Have Been Assimilated(Malik's Linwood Mix)Ft Malik Alston, Dave Mcmurry & The Black Light Collective
- B1: Vampires (Ft Elmus,Allan Barnes, Cen Dervin, Craig Huckaby)(Malik's Afro Remix)
- B2: Shine(Instrumental)
- B3: The Doctor (Ft Zacland)
- B4: Soul Guitar Love (Ft Gabe Gonzalez & Bubz Fiddler & Malik Alston)
- B5: We Can Make It Through (Ft Doc Link, Laronn Dolley, Malik Alston)
Truth Manifest Records is proud and excited to release Beyond Jazz Volume 2, the second volume in this wonderful, futuristic four-part series!
This stellar vinyl release on Truth Manifest Records is from executive producer Malik Alston, with distribution from Mother Tongue. As we travel to the edge of our senses with Beyond Jazz Volume 2, it is immersed in poetry pulling on the heartstrings of urban reality. This is where live meets a hip-hop foundation, sped up and transformed into a dance jazz Afro-Cuban up-tempo banger, to tell the story of the groove. Put Volume 2 to a funky jazz lick phrase, reminding us that through the struggle, there is victory. Let your spirit shine as you feel the essence of boom bap jazz.
This powerful collection has special new remixes and edits based on Malik’s current radio show, Beyond Jazz
Fontaines D.C. kündigen heute ihr mit Spannung erwartetes viertes Album “ROMANCE“ an. “ROMANCE“, das am 23. August über XL Recordings veröffentlicht wird, ist das erste Album der Band mit dem Produzenten James Ford und ohne Zweifel ihr bisher ehrgeizigstes, einfallsreichstes und klanglich abenteuerlichstes Album. Es knüpft an den Erfolg des 2022 erschienenen Albums “Skinty Fia“ an, das in Großbritannien und Irland Platz #1 der Albumcharts erreichte und der Band eine Reihe von Auszeichnungen einbrachte, darunter "International Group of the Year" bei den BRIT Awards 2023. Die explosive Leadsingle "Starburster" läutet die jüngste kreative (R)Evolution von Fontaines D.C. ein. Inspiriert von einer Panikattacke, die Leadsänger Grian Chatten im Londoner Bahnhof St. Pancras erlitt, wird der Song immer wieder durch scharfes und wildes Einatmen unterbrochen. Der treibende Beat und der unerbittliche Text stellen die Selbstzerstörung als Fantasie dar, bevor es einen kurzen Moment ernüchternder Klarheit gibt, wenn das Schlagzeug aussetzt und Chatten vom spuckenden, fast rappenden Gesang beinah in einen Psalm übergeht, dessen Bariton voll und verträumt ist. Begleitet wird der Song von einem filmischen Musikvideo von Regisseur Aube Perrie (Megan Thee Stallion, Harry Styles, The Hives), das die kathartische Intensität des Songs auf brillante Weise einfängt.
Black Vinyl. A trio of Kansas City soul sweepers, from the sprawling midwest burg's storied Cavern, Damon, and Forte concerns. Bump and the Soul Stompers' 1970 sweet soul double sider "I Can Remember" was a tail pipe-dragging, low rider classic in the making, had it ever been released. A few years later Jerald "Bump" Scott took his new group to Cavern's subterranean confines to cut the group harmony masterpiece "Living In The Past," but remained unissued prior to Numero's discovery of the Cavern tapes. As disco was cresting at the top of the next decade, Sharon Revoal tracked her James Brown meets James Bond stepper "Reaching For Our Star"_ the last 45 released on Marva Whitney's peerless Forte label.
Natural Grass Colored Vinyl. A trio of Kansas City soul sweepers, from the sprawling midwest burg's storied Cavern, Damon, and Forte concerns. Bump and the Soul Stompers' 1970 sweet soul double sider "I Can Remember" was a tail pipe-dragging, low rider classic in the making, had it ever been released. A few years later Jerald "Bump" Scott took his new group to Cavern's subterranean confines to cut the group harmony masterpiece "Living In The Past," but remained unissued prior to Numero's discovery of the Cavern tapes. As disco was cresting at the top of the next decade, Sharon Revoal tracked her James Brown meets James Bond stepper "Reaching For Our Star"_ the last 45 released on Marva Whitney's peerless Forte label.
Ceri's 'Don't You Wanna' Original has now been remixed, for this eagerly anticipated Vinyl Only Release, from Find Your Own Records.
Following in the footsteps of the likes of Mr. G and Fred P and D'Julz... Cici, Dee Diggs, Paul Rayner and Zombies in Miami all step up for remix duties, each putting their own unique stamp on the track.
Support from:
I. Jordan, Fred P, DJ Deep, Tristan De Cuhna, Skream, Chez Damier, Cormac, Paul Woolford aka Special Request, Josh Caffe, Jamie Principle, SecretSundaze and more...
- A1: The Jack Foundation – Jackterior Motives
- A2: The Jack Foundation – Jack's Anatomy
- A3: Manatane – Graffiti
- A4: Manatane – Graffiti (Stephan Strube Remix)
- A5: Manatane – Graffiti (Fhase 87 Remix)
- B1: Elyas – Ready To Ride
- B2: Manatane – Graffiti (Dirty Jack Remix)
- B3: Manatane – Graffiti (Gregor Size Remix)
- B4: Manatane – My Booty Houz (Karkasz Remix)
- B5: Manatane – Graffiti (Franck Antenucci Remix)
- B6: Manatane – Graffiti (Hb7 Feat Sandro Mure Remix)
- B7: Manatane – Graffiti (Manatane Pc Ia Remix)
Written, Produced, and Mixed by: Antoine Eole (aka In da Woods) Vocals on Tracks A5, B1, B2 by: Alex Catrine Le Thomas de Selve Track B1 contains a sample of: “And Birds Are Still” by Takashi Yoshimatsu Mastered by: Stephan Mathieu at Schwebung Mastering Original Artwork by: Barbara Orsingher Layout by: Riccardo Piovesan Limited Edition of 100 copies transparent In da Woods is the sonic project of Paris and Berlin-based composer and sound designer Antoine Eole, formerly of the electro-rock band Bad Pilot. Known for his work across TV series, documentaries, theater productions, and major ad campaigns (MTV, Disney, Hermès), Antoine blends cinematic soundscapes with the raw edge of experi- mental and future garage music. With Nuit Blanche, Antoine explores atmospheric and bassdriven compositions, featuring the ethereal vocals of Alex Catrine Le
Thomas de Selve
Intrinsic Rhythm is happy to announce a new EP "Is This The End" by label owner and Irish artist Tr One.
The title takes influence on the struggle provided by modern day electronic music and the thoughts on continuing and this EP tries to provide solace in the love and richness that techno and house sounds particularly deeper strains can provide.
The record kicks off with "Conversion" which is an ode to higher tempo Detroit and European techno by working an uplifting string pattern alongside an offbeat loop and MPC workout.
Next up is "Is This Love" where a whimsical vocal sample is built around an acid and bass undercurrent combined with an emotional chord structure.
Starting off the B side is "Sunrise On Juliet" which is an electro and ghettotech influenced rhodes driven house track which takes the listener on a funk driven journey.
Next is "Steroid" where classic Detroit sounds meets UK influenced house music driven by a hypnotic string and bass pattern.
Finally "Phone Voice" finishes the EP with a murky and hypnotic 909 driven house track which aims to transport the listener to a dream like state.
Limited to 125 vinyl copies with no repress"
180G BLACK VINYL
Since Outlaws in 2020, Ludivine Issambourg's flute has not cooled down. How could it have, when with that album of Hubert Laws covers, it had reached incandescence? Still panting, burning despite the lid of its case left wide open, it awaited the opportunity to continue the adventures that Master Laws himself had praised.
A continuation? Above The Laws isn't quite that.
Although his name still appears, Hubert L. is no longer the sole guide in exploring the vast galaxies of jazz-funk. Through covers but especially as an enhancer of her own compositions, Ludivine has invoked the spirit and intangible presence of Jeremy Steig, Ronald Sneijder, and Bobby Humphrey—the legends of the flute.
Guided by an unescapable groove, with a musical dial set to the late 70s and early 80s, Ludivine has enlisted the help of a brass section this time, a true propulsion engine for funk that can also shift to a soulful breath if the moment calls for it. Supporting the keyboards, there's a Moog laying down its rich layers or twisting tones.
The flutes are used like levers to stabilize the flight or, conversely, to make it soar even faster through the measures. The alto version, which Ludivine had previously used sparingly, adds the necessary velvety note when it’s time to embark on smoother destinations. Speeding up the tempo to make passengers rise from their seats as if danger were imminent; calming the atmosphere to put them in a reassuring cocoon where they can let their thoughts and spirits wander, the improvisations find their place in the compositions observed from the porthole. Detached from gravity, yet still very much in tune with the vibe of cities marked as hot spots on the current jazz scene radar, it's the scent of these streets that permeates some tracks of Above The Laws.
Directed from the control tower by Eric Legnini, Chassol, Alex Finkin, and Michaël Lecoq, Above The Laws benefits from a few stops along the way where precious connections are established. Nils Landgren and his trombone in the colors of the Swedish flag, Laurent De Wilde for a chase between flute and Fender Rhodes, Céline Bonacina’s saxophone for an Afrobeat detour.
But it's at the edge of a journey where organic intensity has continued to assert itself without losing power that Ludivine connected with Brian Jackson for a cover of "Angel Dust," a track from the era when he and his partner Gil Scott-Heron were creating soul masterpieces. One of them featured a flutist by the name of Hubert Laws.
The starting point of Ludivine's latest jazz-funk explorations also becomes the endpoint. Elevated by the ten tracks of Above The Laws, Ludivine Issambourg closes a loop where she has placed her flute and its flourishes in an undeniably leading role. Opening the doors to ambitious orchestrations, unexplored horizons, she weaves into her compositions the experiences, places, and encounters that have shaped her.
- A1: Nick Devon & Engelbert - Depths Of Night Feat. Bokslag
- A2: Clawz Sg & Lackofaffekt - Transient
- B1: Soul Button & Monarke - Experience Love
- B2: Soul Button & Renè Diehl - Haragei
- C1: Seismal D & Monarke - Arya
- C2: Deviu & Martín Dubiansky - Tintes De Ayer
- D1: Mpathy & Pablo Goyesi - Gargamel
- D2: Olivier Weiter & Forniva - Victoria
The Couple Affair series continues to push boundaries with its eleventh edition, presenting a meticulously crafted double vinyl release. This time, Steyoyoke brings together eight powerful tracks, each showcasing the creativity of the label’s most innovative artists.
Nick Devon teams up with Engelbert, with Bokslag adding a haunting touch to their collaboration, while Clawz SG partners with LackOfAffeKt to deliver a perfect balance of energy and emotion. Soul Button returns, collaborating with Monarke and Renè Diehl, crafting an immersive and emotive atmosphere. Adding even more depth, Seismal D works with Monarke again, while Deviu joins forces with Martín Dubiansky for a melodic masterpiece. MPathy and Pablo Goyesi add their unique sound, with Olivier Weiter and Forniva rounding out the lineup with powerful contributions.
Each track on Couple Affair 11 offers a distinct sonic experience, making this release an essential addition for any vinyl enthusiast.
Caribbean contributions to British arts and culture are profound and everlasting, particularly through the music brought by the Windrush generation. As the first Caribbean settlers stepped foot on the shores of Albion, millions of Brits were introduced to roots music and sound system culture. In the 1970s, along the coast of Southend-On-Sea, the P brothers—enthralled by the legendary sounds of Jah Tubbys, Channel One, and Jah Shaka—immersed themselves in the world of reggae. This deep-rooted passion was soon passed down to their young prodigy, Charlie P, their son and nephew.
Charlie’s musical journey begins with the sounds of Dennis Brown, Hugh Mundell, and Ranking Dread echoing through his family home. From his early stage performances with the Goldmasters Allstars to his involvement in the sound system universe, his foundations are strongly embedded in roots music.
After over a decade of perfecting his craft and earning the title of ‘dub controller’ he now reconnects with his roots through an album that celebrates the essence of pure, introspective, undiluted reggae.
Staying true to the genre’s traditional blueprint, the compositions by Rico O.B.F and Charlie P were meticulously brought to life by a full live band. Recorded at London’s Room-In-The-Sky studio, the credits feature a stellar lineup, including Horseman on drums and Megahbass on bass guitar, delivering a sound that is both fresh and authentically raw.
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 others, Blume return with the first ever vinyl release to attend to James Tenney’s legendary “Postal Pieces”, Marking the first ever appearance of five of the suite’s works - “Maximusic, for Max Neuhaus” (1965), “Having Never Written a Note for Percussion, for John Bergamo” (1971), “FFor Percussion Perhaps, or... Night, for Harold Budd” (1971), “Cellogram, for Joel Krosnick” (1971), and “Beast, for Buell Neidlinger” (1971) - on vinyl, drawing upon recordings made in 2003, by the Amsterdam based ensemble, The Barton Workshop, under the direction of James Fulkerson. Among the most important and highly regarded efforts in Tenney’s canon of compositions, as well as within the history of 20th Century music, these five pieces represent a crucial bridge between Fluxus-oriented conceptualism, minimalism, and the microtonal complexities that would emerge in their wakes. Issued in a highly limited vinyl edition of 300 copies, it includes exact replicas of the original postcard graphic scores, and features newly commissioned liner notes by Bradford Bailey, Blume’s brand new edition takes great steps to centring Tenney at the eye the storm during some of experimental music’s most important years.
A student of composition under Carl Ruggles, John Cage, Harry Partch, and Edgard Varèse - remaining close to all of them, and later performing in both Cage and Partch’s ensembles - as well as acoustics, information theory, and tape music composition under Lejaren Hiller, James Tenney carved a wide path within the contexts of experimental and avant-garde music during the second half of the 20th Century. Not only was he a tangible bridge between the generations of composer’s who laid much of the groundwork and the later movements of Fluxus, Minimalism, and the broader practices of experimental music, but Tenney is credited as having contributed one of the earliest applications of gestalt theory and cognitive science to music in 1961, before helping to pioneer the field of computer music at Bell Labs, during the following years.
Over the course of his career, Tenney produced music of such complexity and sophistication - paying little mind to the seductions of taste or dominant tropes of its own moment - that his work and legacy have largely remained under-recognised by the broader publics that have attended to most of his peers. Perhaps more pertinently, the body of work he produced can be perceived as too varied and complex to fit neatly within standard creative histories or critical frameworks, comprising harmonically complex works for acoustic instrumentation, musique concrète, the groundbreaking 1961 “plunderphonic” composition, “Collage No.1 (Blue Suede) (for tape)” - sampling and manipulating a recording of Elvis Presley - as well as algorithmic and computer synthesized music. Even here, within this single decade, a clear image of Tenney’s endeavours remains elusive. In addition to penning important theoretical texts, he collaborated and / or played with Max Neuhaus, La Monte Young, Steve Reich, Philip Glass, Michael Snow, Terry Riley, and numerous others; was an active member of Fluxus; starred in and composed music for Stan Brackage’s films; regularly worked with the Judson Dance Theater; co-founded and played in the ensemble, Tone Roads, with Malcolm Goldstein and Philip Corner; was a vocal advocate of the works of Conlon Nancarrow and Charles Ives, playing a significant part in the revival of both of their legacies; and regularly collaborated as a composer, musician, and actor with his then-partner, the artist Carolee Schneemann, notably co-starring in her film, “Fuses” (1965) and her legendary 1964 performance, “Meat Joy”, as well as creating sound collages for her films “Viet Flakes” (1965) and “Snows” (1970). Curiously, for a relatively absent figure in the historical and critical narratives, Tenney seems to have been the thread that bound multiple generations and disciplines of avant-garde practice in New York during this period.
Tenney was deeply invested in the quality and perception of sound. By 1970, this led him back to composing exclusively for acoustic instrumentation (though sometimes processed with tape delay) - in most cases utilising non-well tempered tuning systems to explore harmonic perception - a practice that he would remain steadfast to for the remainder of his life. This development roughly corresponded with his relocation to California, at the outset of the 1970s, following an invitation to teach at the newly founded music department at California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) in Valencia. Finding himself in regular contact with the harpist Susan Allen and the artist Allison Knowles, as well as at a great distance from many of his friends, in 1971 he completed (with the assistance of Knowles and Marie McRoy) “The Postal Pieces”, a project he had begun in 1965.
A suite of eleven compositions, “The Postal Pieces”, stands among Tenney’s well known and celebrated compositions, and illuminates the dualities embraced by the composer, notably his use of sound to develop consciousness in and of others, and his willingness to draw on elements and observations of everyday life; citing his strong dislike of writing letters as being the primary inspiration for their inception. In lieu, he conceived to send his friends - John Bergamo, Allison Knowles, Pauline Oliveros, La Monte Young, Harold Budd, Philip Corner, Joel Krosnick, Buell Neidlinger, Susan Allen, Max Neuhaus, and Malcolm Goldstein - short scores on the back of postcards. The suite is composed around three themes: Tenney’s concept of swell form (utilizing repetition and progressing through a structurally symmetrical arch), intonation, and the desire to produce “meditative perceptual states”.
A hugely important addition to Blume’s ever expanding efforts in context building and networks of creative practice, James Tenney’s “Post Pieces” is issued in a highly limited vinyl edition of 300 copies, which includes a exact replicas of the original postcard graphic scores, and features newly commissioned liner notes by Bradford Bailey.
DJ Khetama aka Stefan Reimer released a steady stream of records on labels Hyper Hype and Time Unlimited during the mid 90's with much acclaim.
For this Rezpektiva we have compiled tracks from those releases and put them onto one vinyl. Rezpekt to DJ Khetama !
- A1: Black Detroit Intro
- A2: The Dark Streets
- A3: Funeral Biz / Welcome To Detroit (Interlude)
- A4: From Home To Work, And Back (Reprise)
- A5: Mon Amie De`troit (7&Quot; Version)
- B1: Running The Motor (Reprise)
- B2: The Motor Is Running
- B3: There`s No More Soul (Feat Diggs Duke)
- B4: Rain Into The Nite (Outro)
- B5: Floating
First Word Records is very proud to bring you the 10th anniversary edition of Tall Black Guy's debut LP '8 Miles to Moenart'!
It includes two brand new jazz interpretations ('From Home To Work, And Back' and 'Running The Motor'), recorded with a live band, as well as a new intro cut ('Black Detroit'), and an alternative mix of the single 'Mon Amie De'troit', previously only available on 7" vinyl.
The original vinyl LP release was a one-time limited edition pressing; this being the first time this project has been available on wax since then, and also includes entirely new artwork and photography.
From humble origins in Detroit, raised on a healthy diet of Motown, jazz and hip hop, Terrel Wallace (aka Tall Black Guy) has become a standard bearer for the hip hop beats scene. Through a steady stream of soulful productions filled with incredibly clever sample flips and deft production chops, he has won fans across the world, including Gilles Peterson, Benji B, Don Letts, Lefto, Tom Ravenscroft, Lord Finesse, Huey Morgan, Anthony Valadez and countless others, along with sessions for Boiler Room and more.
'8 Miles To Moenart' literally brought Tall Black Guy full circle, and proceeds to do so once again. Detroit was where he started making music, and it's to his hometown he took inspiration for this debut album. Taking in low-slung hip hop, downtempo house and jazz-tinged street soul, it's a record of rare focus. It encapsulated the musical heritage of Detroit, through the looking glass of Tall Black Guy's own signature sound.
Follow up releases included his sophomore First Word album 'Let's Take A Trip' (which also featured the likes of Masego, Daniel Crawford, Miles Bonny and Moonchild), and records on Ubiquity, Bastard Jazz and Street Corner Music, to name a few, along with a steady slew of limited self-released edits amd productions, most recently with his #7DayVaults series.
He's worked with a number of formidable artists worldwide, including recent extensive work with Zo! (Little Brother), Ozay Moore, Deborah Bond and Dee Jackson (80's Babies), as well as collaborations with 14KT and First Word label-mate Allysha Joy, to name just a few. He is also an integral player for DJ Jazzy Jeff's infamous PLAYlist Retreat sessions, along with more First Word family, Kaidi Tatham and Eric Lau, as well as artists like James Poyser, Ali Shaheed Muhammad and Questlove, and he was a core contributor to First Word's 'Nothing Leaves The House' series, along with Eric, Mr Thing and kidkanevil.
Tall Black Guy has firmly established himself to be one of the most influential producers working today.
Terrel says "I made the bulk of this album back in Detroit around 2012/2013, before I relocated to the UK. I've been back living and working in the States for a while now, and it's great to look back on this project. But while it's nice to reminisce, it's important to look forwards, so I wanted to include something new here to represent my progression as an artist, so there's some new versions included, that I created with the help of some jazz musician friends of mine."
'8 Miles to Moenart' (10th Anniversary Edition) will be released on digital & vinyl on October 18th 2024.
c 03: Funeral Biz / Welcome to Detroit (Interlude) feat. Malice & Mario Sweet
e 05: Mon Amie De`troit (7" Version) feat. Ozay Moore
- A1: The Guiding Stars - Been Dipped In The Water
- A2: The Religious Five Quartet - Let Me Lean On You
- A3: The Butlerairs - He's So Good To Me
- A4: Eastern Star Chorale - Until You Try Jesus
- A5: The Sensational Bells Of Joy - Lord Take My Hand
- A6: Green Street Baptist Church Youth Choir - He's All Right
- A7: The Singing Son Of Zion - Steal Away
- B1: The Gospel Voices Of Soul - Woke Up This Morning
- B2: The Gospel Motivators - Trust Him
- B3: Joe Thomas - I Feel Like Pressing My Way
- B4: The Indiana Wonders - Thank You Jesus
- B5: The Webster Singers - Stay By Our Side
- B6: Rev Eddie James And Family - Jesus Will Fix It
- C1: The Solomonaires - Come Out Of The Wilderness
- C2: The Antioch Majestic Voices - Peace Until My Soul
- C3: Rev Thomas N. Pride - He Knows It All
- C4: The Ecclesiastics - He Made A Way For Me
- C5: The Gospel Descendents - Jesus Is All I Need To Get By
- C6: The Gospel Chanteurs - Lord Don't Leave Me
- C7: Newburg Radio Chorus - Calvary
- D1: Cleo K Joiner Iii And The Metropolitan Comm. Choir - Spirit Of The Living God
- D2: Jimmy Ellis And The Riverview Spiritual Singers - I've Come A Long, Long Way
- D3: Rev Charles E. Kirby - Lord You Been Good To Me
- D4: The Golden Crowns - We Are Trying
- D5: Indiana Community Choir - Lord Don't Move That Mountain
- D6: God's Girls - My Time Ain't Long
Hardcover Book which includes a 208-page book documenting Louisville's rich Black Gospel music legacy and access to a comprehensive digital archive.
In the mid-20th century, Louisville gospel music was occasionally recorded when members of the local gospel community pressed 45rpm records and LPs, and released them through grassroots record labels such as Sensational Sounds, Grace, Blessed, and D.J.S. Over the years, a substantial body of work was produced in our city, but those recordings are in danger of being lost forever.
The Louisville Story Program has been working with dozens of people in the local gospel music community to locate, digitize, and preserve hundreds of these recordings and to develop a book that documents and honors the legacies of the people and communities that produced them.
For decades, the passion, hard work, and support of countless people across dozens of Black church communities in Louisville have nurtured and sustained a rich gospel music ecosystem. This music has served as a central part of people's religious practice and as an expression of Black pride, joy, affirmation, love, dignity, determination, and hope. This legacy continues to this day.
With support from The Owsley Brown II Family Foundation and Owsley Brown III Philanthropic Foundation, LSP has partnered with members of the gospel community and a local advisory group of local gospel historians and luminaries:
To locate, clean, and digitize gospel records of local artists released by small local labels
To accompany the local Black gospel music community in developing a 4 CD box set that includes a 200+ page hardcover book with first-person documentation of their rich history
To create an accompanying double LP featuring 26 of those songs
To create and maintain a public-facing digital archive of 1,000 songs and 1,000 photographs
To celebrate the final release with a large concert at the Brown Theatre (September 28, 2024)
Two iconic 80s Disco/Boogie anthems of the era are set for a re-release on 12-inch vinyl via RCA, with a fresh mix from Brooklyn-based producer, Mike Maurro.
Keni Burke - Risin' to the Top (A Mike Maurro Mix)
'’Risin’ to the Top’, originally released in 1982 on Burke’s third solo album, ‘Changes’, has become Burke’s most successful hit as a solo artist since departing from his former band, Five Stairsteppers. Countless producers have utilised the song as a choice sample for their own tracks with artists such as Mary J. Blige, LL Cool J, Madlib and more.
Maurro’s mix works the stems and gives the record some fresh guitar licks alongside new percussive elements, whilst maintaining a heavy lean into the sensual, laid-back swing of the original.'
Evelyn ‘Champagne’ King - I'm In Love (A Mike Maurro Mix)
'The flip side sees the release of Evelyn 'Champagne' King’s hit single ‘I’m In Love’, originally released in 1981 and taken from King’s fourth studio album of the same name. A feel-good, sing-a-long anthem, once again given a fresh feel thanks to Maurro’s new take on the record.
Both tracks serve as trump cards to whip up any dancefloor at the right time'
This EP marks a sixth outing for the always fresh Stereo:type which deals in soulful house and disco fusions with a timeless edge. Risk Assessment is behind plenty of them, including this lovely 12" which opens with the deep house throb of 'The Way I Feel'. A dub version strips out the soulful vocal hooks then the flip opens with 'Do U Love Me' (feat Vanessa Freeman - The DJ mix) which is a proper bit of house music songwriting with US garage drums and soaring vocals. Last of all is 'The Party' (feat Hannah Khemoh) which is more upright and intended to get the floor pumping.
- A1: World Is Dog
- A2: Cctv (Feat Creature)
- A3: Yottabyte
- A4: Bad Pollen (Feat Billy Woods)
- A5: Slum Of A Disregard
- A6: Rfid
- A7: Instant Transfer (Feat Billy Woods)
- A8: Ikebana
- B1: In The Shadow Of If
- B2: Skp
- B3: Hushpuppies
- B4: 14 4 (Feat. Skech185)
- B5: Voice 2 Skull
- B6: Xolo
- B7: Zigzagzig
Black Vinyl[35,08 €]
We’re teaming up with ELUCID and Fat Possum for a limited edition of 300 copies of a Rush Hour black ice coloured edition.
E L U C I D, one half of the illustrious duo Armand Hammer, is here with the full-length follow-up to 'I Told Bessie'. Further experiments in the sonic, expanding on the 'live' side of music paired with the embracing of chaos. Something you haven't heard, or not so for a very long time. E L U C I D is here to reveal the bleakness of reality.
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''There is never time in the future in which we will work out our salvation. The challenge is in the moment; the time is always now.''
James Baldwin
A raw, crackling urgency runs through rapper-producer ELUCID’s new album REVELATOR like an underground power line. There is no space here for sepia-toned reminiscences or indulgent self-mythologizing. Intellectual rabbit holes have been filled in with concrete and rebar ; there is nowhere to hide and no off ramp from the audio Autobahn that ELUCID has fashioned—a renegade Robert Moses with gold fronts, bulldozing the homes of the powerful and the complicit. REVELATOR brims with the energy of now, with a refusal to look away. Carpe diem in a murder one mask.
Born in Jamaica, Queens, ELUCID has been on the cutting edge of New York’s underground scene since the mid-2000s. From the beginning, he has defied both convention and expectation. He ran with Okayplayer darlings Tanya Morgan, but his own music eschewed their throwback charm for glitchy noise experiments and bass-swamped culture jamming. His 2016 debut studio project Save Yourself (re-released in a deluxe edition last year) announced him in earnest. But in recent years, his Armand Hammer releases with partner-in-crime billy woods have received significant attention and acclaim. Serving as a followup to his last solo album—2022’s comparatively balmy I Told Bessie—ELUCID hoped to “re-distinguish” himself with REVELATOR, setting himself apart amidst the increasing attention around the music he and his friends are making together.
For ELUCID, this meant setting bold new challenges for himself. One of these was diving further into live instrumentation than ever before—”getting my Quincy Jones on,” as he puts it. The testing ground for this approach was Armand Hammer’s most recent project, 2023’s We Buy Diabetic Test Strips’ Möbius strip soundscapes, warmed with instrumental flourishes and skin-shedding beat progressions. With REVELATOR, though, ELUCID strove to create an atmosphere of chaos, embracing experimental electronics and atonal sample bursts. He worked on much of the album with co-producer Jon Nellen, who comes from a background in avant-garde and Indian classical music. “I wanted to get as freaky as I could at this moment. I wanted people to hear things, maybe for the first time, or in a way they haven’t for a long while,” the rapper explains.
ELUCID arrived at the studio with a collection of noise sources: non-referential samples, glitches and noises. Together he, Nellen, and others created forms out of them and, as ELUCID recalls, “just started playing drums with it.” Their fried, distorted sound was directly inspired by Miles Davis at his most uncompromising—specifically, the tone-clustering funk track “Rated X” from his 1974 double LP Get Up With It. At times, the pairing of rap with avant-fusion sounds also brings Emergency! from The Tony Williams Lifetime to mind, perhaps in an alternate timeline where the late drummer was listening to Ice Cube’s AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted.
“The World is Dog,” REVELATOR’s lead single, functions as the album’s aesthetic thesis statement. Like the Davis track, the textures are punishing, the tonality is in free-fall, and the driving breakbeat of a groove cuts in and out unceremoniously. Avant-jazz bassist Luke Stewart, who appears throughout the record, holds the whole thing together just long enough for ELUCID to tightwalk over the beat. This tension is exactly where REVELATOR sets itself apart; in a time of drumless loops, and safe soul samples, this is a high-wire act with no safety net. Similarly, the song announces the themes of the album within just a few phrases, evoking the way societies accept and adjust to new levels of debasement and brutality while suffocating under the weight of history: “Can’t clock the kill, all a mystery/Forced past will eating everyone eventually/The world is dog.”
Many of the songs on REVELATOR grapple obliquely with dissolution and disenfranchisement in America and across the world—the grim realities of our domestic sociopolitical climate and our involvement in foreign conflicts. “Much of my artistic and political sensibility comes from the Black arts movement here in New York,” ELUCID explains. “Recognizing the interconnected global struggles against oppression, artists and thinkers created works and actions in solidarity with freedom movements in South Africa and Palestine.” ELUCID cites intellectuals like Amiri Baraka, Kwame Nkrumah, Audre Lorde, Sonia Sanchez, and Nikki Giovanni among his heroes. (One track on the album is specifically inspired by Lorde’s work, “SKP,” citing the scholar’s paper “Uses of the Erotic: The Erotic As Power.”) Songs like REVELATOR’s insistent closer “ZIGZAGZIG,” find ELUCID applying up-to-the-minute messaging, making explicit reference to the conflict in Gaza: “Feed a war machine…from river to sea, in lieu of peace.”
Despite ELUCID’s preference for cacophonous system overload here, the rapper also provides moments of respite. Recorded at The Alchemist’s Los Angeles studio, the laid-back, wheezing “INSTANT TRANSFER” is a collaboration with billy woods, which crystallizes their shared sense of creative determination. “With much momentum behind us and even more on the horizon, I knew a purpose, and that every step was ordered to that purpose,” ELUCID said of the experience. Meanwhile, the jittery “HUSHPUPPIES” is a playful anomaly on the track list, providing a snapshot of ELUCID watching his grandparents in the kitchen while preparing for Friday night fish fry dinners.
“Love still rules over on this side,” ELUCID says. ”I’m raising a family. We are making meaning and finding joy in the midst of all the fucked up-ness of everything around us because the alternative is cowardice and slow death. We remain rooted. We celebrate our people and our wins. Struggle is necessary.”
“IKEBANA” is one of ELUCID’s strongest statements of purpose on the record, blending the record’s heaviest themes with its most hopeful sentiments. supported by a shoutalong refrain and an urgent prog-funk groove. Breaking away from images of dissolution and crumbling societal systems that populate REVELATOR, ELUCID notes that the only way to navigate life’s bleakest landscapes is to cling to love and believe in those around you—to look forward toward something better that may or may not be possible. For the rapper, one of the album’s most trenchant lines comes during a centerpiece of a beat drop: “Being alive/I must look up.”
“The lyric ‘being alive I must look up’ is important especially in the context of this album. Much of the album imagery is harsh and reflects the actual doom some of us experience. But still I/we exist,” ELUCID explains.
Every artist is, in one way or another, the product of their time, bound by life’s leaden gravity to operate within the space of that which is already known. But there are some who are able to shake free of these ties, to shape the culture as it unfolds, to make the present their own.
Revelation, as a concept, points to the scales falling from people’s eyes—something that has been hiding in plain sight becoming clear. “The revelator relates to things that have been talked about, things that have been forecasted,” ELUCID adds. “And now they’re really here, and everyone sees it. And there’s no escaping.” REVELATOR plays out with the unmitigated power of those storms, laying waste to any genre conventions in pursuit of a certain physicality. Here, ELUCID develops a wholly distinctive musical language to explore our fractured modernity.
REVELATOR's packaging was designed by longtime Armand Hammer / Backwoodz art director, Alexander Richter.
Michael Mayer albums don’t come round too often, which is one of many reasons why his fourth collection, The Floor Is Lava, is a genuine event. It’s been eight years since his last one, the collaborative & released on !K7; its predecessors, Mantasy (2012) and Touch (2004), took their sweet time, too. It’s no real surprise, given the many hats Mayer wears – globetrotting DJ, revered remixer, inveterate collaborator, and boss of both Kompakt and Imara – that his solo productions are relatively sparing. But this also speaks to their quality: Mayer’s name on a record sleeve is a sign of quality, of music that’s both looking to the future and calling back to the past, that balances the imperatives of the dancefloor and the loungeroom, that’s as exploratory as it is functional.
On The Floor Is Lava, Mayer seems to be taking the temperature of both the music that surrounds him (past and present), and the ides of the industry he works within. There’s that iconic album title, for a start. “The album’s mindset,” he says, reflecting on those four words together. For Mayer, it’s partly a critique of the way the industry boxes in both producer and listener, focuses them on genre, on market, on the next new thing: “Being a free minded spirit that transcends genres has become an uphill battle.” A battle worth fighting, though, and with The Floor Is Lava, the result is an album that’s varied, quixotic, idiosyncratic, charming, and deeply, addictively listenable.
Throughout, Mayer finds thrills in exploration and juxtaposition, allowing unexpected things to blossom and giving them their life, their platform, throwing the listener exciting curveballs: “It’s a DJ album by a DJ that’s easily bored.” Either easily bored, or endlessly curious, The Floor Is Lava is rich with ideas. It opens with “The Problem”, which looks back to look forward, embracing the rickety way early house productions threw samples together with gleeful abandon. Mayer mentions Pal Joey, and the scene around Rockers Hi-Fi and their Different Drummer imprint, as reference points, and you can hear that freewheeling spirit throughout.
It’s followed by “Vagus”, a slinky, sensual minimal house number that Mayer describes as his “musical catnip”. The flow of these two opening cuts defines the dynamic of The Floor Is Lava, defining the dialectical drive at its core: thesis and antithesis leads to synthesis, but with a welcome prickliness that means you’re always excited, always engaged. It’s also productive in the way it derives energy from rubbing genres and sounds against each other, in unexpected ways, for maximum musical frisson. There’s psychedelic techno on “Feuerstuhl”, more minimal techno with “Ardor” (Mayer mentions ‘Immer 1’ era 90s minimal as inspiration), slippery, Shepard-tone breakbeat through “Sycophant”, a lovely, lush vocal turn on the poppy “The Solution”.
The album closes with the melancholy “Süßer Schlaf”, where Mayer sets a poem by Goethe to one of his most haunted, moving pieces of music yet, in abstract tribute to a lost friend. It’s one of the most affecting moments on The Floor Is Lava. There’s also an update on 2020’s wild Brainwave Technology EP, with the surrealist glitter-stomp of “Brainwave 2.0” (check out those handclaps!),where Mayer’s thinking about the socio-political precipice of the now: “I’m reading with great interest about this whole complex of how humanity is about to cross so many lines and the implications that the resulting financial and educational inequality will bring.”
That’s The Floor Is Lava: then and now, brainwaves and nerve structures, problems and solutions, genres on fire; the real, the unreal, and the surreal. An album for the easily bored and the endlessly curious. Mayer has the last word, telling us all you need to know about the album’s spirit: “Burning for the cause, being zealous, being addicted to the heat of the night, the exuberant powers of music.”
Michael Mayer veröffentlicht nicht oft Alben, was einer von vielen Gründen ist, warum ‘The Floor Is Lava’ ein echtes Ereignis ist. Es sind acht Jahre vergangen seit seinem letzten Werk, dem Kollaborationsalbum &, das auf !K7 erschien; seine Vorgänger, Mantasy (2012) und Touch (2004), ließen ebenfalls auf sich warten. Es überrascht nicht wirklich, da Mayer viele Rollen gleichzeitig erfüllt – weltreisender DJ, vielbeschäftigter Remixer, unermüdlicher Kollaborateur und Chef von sowohl Kompakt als auch Imara – weshalb seine Solo-Produktionen eher sparsam ausfallen. Doch das spricht auch für deren Qualität: Ein Album mit Mayers Namen auf dem Cover steht für Qualität, für Musik, die sowohl in die Zukunft blickt als auch auf die Vergangenheit verweist, die das Gleichgewicht zwischen den Anforderungen des Dancefloors und des Wohnzimmers hält, die genauso erforschend wie funktional ist.
Auf The Floor Is Lava scheint Mayer sowohl die Musik um ihn herum (vergangen und gegenwärtig) als auch die Strömungen der Branche, in der er arbeitet, zu reflektieren. Da wäre zunächst der ikonische Albumtitel. „Die Grundhaltung des Albums“, sagt er, drückt sich in diesen vier Worte aus. Für Mayer ist es teilweise eine Kritik daran, wie die Industrie sowohl Produzenten als auch Hörer in Schubladen steckt, sie auf Genres, auf den Markt und auf das nächste große Ding fokussiert: „Ein freier Geist zu sein, der Genres überschreitet, ist zu einem steinigen Weg geworden.“ Ein Kampf, der sich jedoch lohnt, und mit The Floor Is Lava ist das Ergebnis ein Album, das vielfältig, eigenwillig, charmant und tiefsinnig, aber auch süchtig machend ist.
Im gesamten Album findet Mayer Freude an der Erforschung und Gegenüberstellung von Stilen, lässt unerwartete Dinge erblühen und gibt ihnen Raum, überrascht den Hörer mit spannenden Wendungen: „Es ist ein DJ-Album von einem DJ, der sich schnell langweilt.“ Entweder langweilt er sich schnell oder er ist unendlich neugierig – The Floor Is Lava ist reich an Ideen. Es beginnt mit „The Problem“, das in die Vergangenheit blickt, um nach vorne zu schauen, und die wilde Art, wie frühe House-Produktionen Samples mit fröhlicher Unbekümmertheit zusammenwarfen, aufgreift. Mayer nennt Pal Joey und die Szene um Rockers Hi-Fi und ihr Label Different Drummer als Referenzpunkte, und dieser freie Geist zieht sich durch das gesamte Album.
Es folgt „Vagus“, eine sinnliche Minimal-House-Nummer, die Mayer als seine „musikalische Katzenminze“ beschreibt. Der Fluss dieser beiden Eröffnungstracks definiert die Dynamik von The Floor Is Lava und den dialektischen Antrieb im Kern: These und Antithese führen zu einer Synthese, jedoch mit einer willkommenen Schärfe, die dafür sorgt, dass man immer aufgeregt und engagiert bleibt. Zudem gewinnt das Album Energie, indem es Genres und Klänge auf unerwartete Weise aneinanderreibt, um maximalen musikalischen Nervenkitzel zu erzeugen. Es gibt psychedelischen Techno in „Feuerstuhl“, mehr Minimal Techno mit „Ardor“ (Mayer erwähnt ‘Immer’ Ära Minimal als Bezugspunkt), gleitenden Shepard-Ton-Breakbeat in „Sycophant“ und einen lieblichen, üppigen Vocal-Auftritt im poppigen „The Solution“.
Das Album schließt mit dem melancholischen „Süßer Schlaf“, in dem Mayer ein Gedicht von Goethe vertont und eine seiner bisher eindringlichsten und bewegendsten musikalischen Kompositionen schafft, als abstrakten Tribut an eine verschiedene Freundin. Es ist einer der ergreifendsten Momente auf The Floor Is Lava. Ebenfalls gibt es ein Update der wilden Brainwave Technology-EP von 2020, mit dem surrealistischen Glitzer-Stampfer „Brainwave 2.0“ (hör dir diese Handclaps an!), in dem Mayer über den sozio-politischen Abgrund der Gegenwart nachdenkt: „Ich lese mit großem Interesse über diesen ganzen Komplex, wie die Menschheit dabei ist, so viele Grenzen zu überschreiten und welche Auswirkungen die daraus resultierende finanzielle und bildungstechnische Ungleichheit haben wird.“
Das ist The Floor Is Lava: Damals und heute, Gehirnwellen und Nervengeflechte, Probleme und Lösungen, brennende Genres; das Reale, das Unreale und das Surreale. Ein Album für die schnell Gelangweilten und die unendlich Neugierigen. Mayer hat das letzte Wort und sagt uns alles, was wir über den Geist des Albums wissen müssen: „Brennen für die Sache, leidenschaftlich sein, süchtig nach der Hitze der Nacht, den überschwänglichen Kräften der Musik.“
Ulterior Motives launch their main label with a single from DJ Persuasion, featuring a Liftin’ Spirits remix from Ant Miles. The label, which is helmed by DJ and producer Noah Tucker, began life in 2021 with an anonymous edit of a much-loved underground hip hop gem. Two further 12”s in the white label series followed along similar lines, joining the dots between jungle, footwork and r’n’b in UM style. Since then, they have also launched their cassette series with a Metrist mix covering golden era tech step and d’n’b.
DJ Persuasion is principally known for A History Of Hardcore, a series of ten mixes covering ’88-’98 which appeared across a number of platforms between 2015 and 2020. Certain entries in the series appeared on cassette via The Trilogy Tapes, Blackest Ever Black (Id Mud) and Tape Echo. Persuasion also hosted the NTS Demon Poetry show (now the Drum Poetry show) for some years, and contributed In Focus sessions covering the work of Dillinja and LTJ Bukem, alongside Dev:Null.
Jameela EP covers four contrasting, but also concentric areas of the hardcore continuum, featuring a remix from Liftin’ Spirits aka Ant Miles of Origin Unknown. The title track rolls out at bleeding edge jungle hardcore tempo, taking in a mixture of familiar and unfamiliar references. Liftin’ Spirits contributes a standout remix which reframes Jameela as a drum’n’bass epic, opening with a panoramic intro and a quaking bass drop, then building to soaring strings. Robin Gets Revenge is an audial intervention into one of the last remaining unsolved mysteries in acid house, and a stomping 89’-’90 style jammer to boot. The B2 finds Jameela in a slower guise, offering something for after the club and the warm up.
You feel the weight of concrete, steel, and decades of history alongside every beat. "Berlin," by Clark Davis is a homage on Europe's ultimate home of techno. In cooperation with Clark Davis, a series of artists who definitely wrote long time techno history, have lend their support with thrilling remixes. G-Man, aka Gez Varley, renowned from his groundbreaking work with LFO, lends his innovative touch by two remix versions. Steve Stoll, a fixture on the global techno scene since the early 90s, brings his minimalist approach. Additionally, Roseen, inspired by sounds and rhythms of Detroit and influenced by Berlin's subcultural night life, contributes his unique sound. All this makes "Berlin" a deep techno journey that does justice to the spirit of Berlins techno history.
No stranger to the Spatial family following the release of his excellent Age of Awareness EP back in 2023, Eusebeia brings his eclectic breakbeat driven vibes to sister label
Curvature for an EP spanning a variety of energies with a free-spirited approach to drum patterns and atmosphere you wont want to miss.
A1 Set In Motion
Shimmering melodic keys and light hi hats quietly introduce Set In Motion, as Eusebeia takes a laid back opening approach to his Curvature debut. Clean, wandering breaks enter the mix and develop continually, as a subtly used, luscious female vocal greets the listener with a curiously soothing vibe. Following the breakdown, a deep, pounding bassline punctuates skillful synthwork riddled with intrigue and atmosphere to round off
a unique, eclectic track.
A2 In Perpetuum
Stepping things up with a doggedly breakbeat focus, In Perpetuum is an energetic piece with an opening backdrop akin to an aging printer being coaxed back to life,
before an echoed vocal welcomes hyperactive, rasping breaks, edited and chopped with the scintillating talent we have come to expect from Eusebeia. The latter half of the
track changes up the vibe slightly with inquisitive padwork gliding above the omnipresent edits.
B1 Flow State
Subtle cowbell style cymbals and gentle melodies introduce Flow State, before an inimitable duality of old school atmospheric breaks pass the baton repeatedly through the track in typically impactful style from Eusebeia. The melodies and an understated bassline wrapped around kickdrums continues through the various phrases before the beats depart, leaving the listener to reflect on a truly captivating track just as the title
suggests.
B2 The Cure For What Ails You Reverberating percussion and classic whale sounds instantly grasp your attention
before ominous 808 bass ushers in a thunderous helping of pure amen pleasure sent straight from the old school - edited and programmed to perfection by Eusebeia with a
finesse seldom seen in modern production. Dense kickdrums vibe perfectly with the highs and mids of a track destined to headline many an atmospheric junglists set.
After two collaborative releases on raum…musik — first with Federico Molinari and then Giuliano Lomonte — Alexis Cabrera steps into the spotlight for the 118th release of the label. "Dreaming Of A Silver Future" is a club-ready 3-track EP exploring various shades of Tech House, solidifying his talent for crafting fresh dancefloor groovers brimming with swag.
The title track, 'Dreaming Of A Silver Future' (A1), is the most colourful offer of the EP — a relentless groover immersed in organ chords, synth stabs, addicting vocal samples and a fully pumpin' bassline. 'Your Name On My Arm' (B1) puts its wicked bass and hypnotic vocal samples at the centre of the stage, creating an atmosphere of frantic, slightly wicked vibes drenched in hip-hop swagger. 'Do You Wanna Wonder' (B2) closes the EP in full swing, forefronting yet again its ominous-yet-hypnotic bassline between bouncy drums, shuffly rhythms and quirky vocal samples reminiscent of some sort of hypermodern pop.
"Dreaming Of A Silver Future" continues Cabrera's reputation for delivering groove-heavy music for the hottest dancefloors, showcasing his ability to navigate, with style, the infinite nuances of the Tech House spectrum, all while keeping things undeniably club-focused. And raum…musik, known for its refined curation of underground top-shelf dancefloor records, is the perfect home for this release.
Modbox returns with a fresh release on his own label, Castanea Records, delivering the Cosmic Wind EP. This release moves through the realms of tech house, acid, neo trance, and broken beat, creating a textured sound that reflects Modbox’s forward-thinking approach to electronic music.
The EP opens with'Cosmic Wind,' where atmospheric layers float over a steady groove, setting a hypnotic, introspective tone. 'Acid Galaxy' follows, bringing sharp acid lines and raw energy to the forefront, offering a punchy, floor-focused experience.
On the B-side, Arno reworks 'Acid Galaxy' into a deeper, more hypnotic journey, adding subtle shifts in rhythm and expanding the track’s immersive qualities. 'Flow' rounds out the release with its broken beat structure, delivering a refreshing change in pace and a more experimental, layered vibe.
The Cosmic Wind EP showcases Modbox’s ability to blend rhythmic complexity with atmospheric depth, making it a versatile addition to any DJ’s collection.
After solidifying its presence in the electronic music scene, 'Anva' returns with its fourth release, featuring a collaborative effort from Tagir & Indigo Minds. Meditation Dance EP explores the balance between minimal house and tech house, offering four original tracks that traverse atmospheric soundscapes and punchy rhythms.
'Meditation Dance' opens the EP with a deep, rolling bassline that gradually unfolds into a hypnotic groove. Layered with subtle textures and rhythmic nuances, it invites dancers into a meditative state while keeping the energy moving forward. 'Bandit' shifts the momentum with tighter percussion and playful melodic accents, creating a steady groove that’s both engaging and dynamic.
On the B-side, 'Donut' introduces intricate sound design and spaced-out synth work, maintaining a relaxed yet detailed rhythm that adds depth to any set. Closing out the release, 'Jack' brings a bouncy and upbeat vibe, with sharp beats and a syncopated groove that injects playful energy into the dancefloor.
The Meditation Dance EP offers a versatile selection of tracks, perfect for DJs who seek to mix minimal precision with engaging rhythmic flow.
Stefano De Santis makes his debut on Quattro Bambole with five captivating tracks, delivering some blend of jazzy house, broken-beat rhythms and city-pop oriented synth-boogie, including a remix of Sean McCabe. Stefano is a young musical maestro from Rome involved in the jazz and deep-house scene for several years and he released music for ZRecords, Colin Curtis Presents, Local Talk, Ramrock, Tenlovermusic, Cognitiva. Even new listeners can dive into this small ocean of constantly evolving sounds and that the often changes of rhythm and mood.take us by surprise... with enormous joy!
Mood Child is back with 'Various Moods Vol. 3', a captivating collection of six tunes, each possessing its own distinct mood and power.
Led by founders Manda Moor and Sirus Hood, this superb album features standout contributions from label favorites Reboot and Marian (BR), while also shining a spotlight on fresh talent, including Crewcutz, Band&Dos, Sterium, Samarone, and Drewski.
Available now on both vinyl and digital formats, *
'Various Moods Vol. 3' continues Mood Child's tradition of delivering innovative, boundary-pushing music.
Paddan's Sigtryggur Baldursson and Birgir Mogensen are lifelong friends from Kópavogur, Iceland, who started as mates on the local football team, then graduated to making music together as teenagers, and even later as young men doing time in the experimental punk collective KUKL, from 1983 - 1986.
KUKL was populated by survivors of the post-punk scene in Iceland in the early 80s, which is well documented in the film Rock in Reykjavik from 1982. The band was released by the Crass collective in London and featured members, apart from Birgir and Sigtryggur, like Guðlaugur Óttarsson, Einar Melax, Björk and Einar Örn, some of whom would become better known later in outfits like the Sugarcubes and their respective solo work and other collaborations.
Sigtryggur has a long career in music, having worked with among others, Emiliana Torrini, Howie B, Les Negresses Vertes, Tomas R. Einarsson, Petur Ben, KK, Kaktus Einarsson, and many many others. He also produces an award-winning documentary music show for RUV called Hljómskálinn.
Birgir Mogensen is a classically trained classical guitarist and bass player who has worked through the years with artists ranging from KUKL to Killing Joke to Spilafifl and Inferno5.
Birgir and Sigtryggur formed Paddan during the 2010s, and are now preparing to release their EP Fluid Time, which has been inspired by their perception of time and space. Birgir Mogensen says, "As a duo, we trusted our musical intuition and were guided by allowing the first idea to remain unchanged during the recording process"Recorded, produced, and arranged by the pair, Sigtryggur and Birgir play basses and drums along with various other instruments.
All recordings are played on live instruments except a modular synth which is programmed in the background of two tracks The duo is joined by the great harmonica and lap steel player Gaukur Davidsson on "Vaguely" and "Bug," and trumpet player Eirikur Orri Ólafsson on "Splash," not to mention the mixing expertise of Vaccines bassist Arni Hjörvar Árnason on "Bug," "Splash," and "Kokka," and sound-mixer Albert Finnbogason on "Vaguely."
Moodena & Charles Levine drop ‘Badman’ on Rekids. Radio Slave and Cratebug remix the track, with the EP landing this October.
‘Badman’ sees Moodena & Charles Levine team up on Rekids this October, including remixes from label founder Radio Slave, and Cratebug. The vocal mix of Moodena & Charles Levine’s ‘Badman’ is up first, a high-energy dance track with classic house strings and an infectious bassline, telephone-like samples dialling the keypad, and a big vocal to top it off. Chicagoan edit royalty Cratebug steps up to remix ‘Badman’ first, turning the track into a hypnotic after-hours cut with plenty of dub echo, the original faintly shining through its rolling elements.
On the B-side, Moodena & Charles Levine’s ‘Badman’ is then remixed by Rekids’ own Radio Slave, who in turn transforms the track with a more low-slung vibe, cruising along with tripped-out sonics and traces of the vocals while bringing the dial-up sounds forward. Closing out the EP, there is also a dub which loses the original ‘Badman’ vocal but maintains the classy house heat.
Moodena has been active in the Disco and Nu-Disco scenes for over thirty years, earning accolades via releases on Midnight Riot, Nervous Records, and his own Tropical Disco Records. Following a twenty-year-long friendship, he collaborates with one-half of Soul Clap, Charles Levine, for the first time for the ‘Badman’ EP on Radio Slave’s Rekids. With Soul Clap, Levine influenced the House and Nu-disco scenes through varied tracks on labels like Defected and Crosstown Rebels while releasing tracks from artists like Jkriv, Josh Wink and DJ Rocca on their eponymous Soul Clap Records label.
dBridge - "So here we have it: the final plate of the Exit 100 series. I’ve been immensely proud of this project, and I believe this release is a fitting way to conclude it. We’ve curated a collection full of great music from artists I love, and I’m pleased that we’ve created a project that represents Exit’s future rather than its past."
DJ Support: Gilles Peterson, Yogi Haughton, Rocky, Greg Belson
Moton takes its time to select the best tracks for it’s loyal but hungry fan base, however, this EP was worth the wait. A killer 3 tracker cleverly edited from vaults of much respected don of the scene, Ghosted Edits, aka David Hill. The A side is an 80’s style boogie disco dancer to destroy the better floors, flipped with an infectious gospel vocal dancer that will have you singing out loud, alongside a wonderful soul 2 stepper with a touch of Balearic goodness! Proper pool side vibe. Enjoy.
From London to Ibiza via Berlin, inspired by Chigago and Detroit, Ceri finds her truth in proper house music. ‘Can’t Pay My Bills’ EP provides a message of hope during uncertain times. Acknowledged as a “rising selector” by Crack Magazine, producer, label boss and record digger Ceri steps into 2024 with a brand-new EP ‘Can’t Pay My Bills” via her imprint “Find Your Own Records”.
“The title track is inspired by the current economic situation in the world, and also features a positive message that reflects the values and true origins of house music, reinforcing the belief that we can overcome our circumstances and improve our situation” - Ceri
The new four track EP drips with Chicago, New York and Detroit jackin’ house with garage influence, and a sprinkle of ripping UK breakbeat for good measure. The people’s producer D'Julz steps up, on remix duties, contributing not one but two remixes to the label’s ongoing message of artist authenticity and collaboration. The remixes will be vinyl only, and the originals will see a digital release later in the year.
“I have collected D'Julz music for many years, his label started around the same time I started DJing, and it was and still is, one of the few labels that I buy on sight. I know it will always be quality. Something I aspire to do with my label too.”– Ceri
As an artist led label 'Find Your Own Records’ has become a home for genuine house legends Mr G, Fred P, Alex Arnout, and has rightly gained support from Mixmag, Resident Advisor, BBC Radio 1, BB6Music and BBC1Xtra.
Support for the label so far comes from the likes of:
Midland, Ben UFO, Move D, K-HAND, Fumiya Tanaka, Fred P, Paranoid London, Steve O'Sullivan, Tristan Da Cunha, Ryan Elliot, Lakuti, DJ Deep, Kerri Chandler, Chloe Caillet, Fred P, Jeremy Underground, Cici, D’Julz, Chez Damier and more…
As a DJ Ceri has performed marathon sets at Fabric, Corsica Studios, Pikes Ibiza, Thisishaven, and recently made her debut at the legendary Panorama Bar/Berghain. Confidently sharing the booth with club favourites Ryan Elliot, Jeremy Underground, Paranoid London and Objekt it’s certain the next year of live shows will be ones to remember for the UK artist. Inspiring far beyond the dancefloor, Ceri also regularly steps up as a masterclass host / panelist on creativity, mental health, meditation and wellness with renowned platforms Beatport, ADE, RedBull, Point Blank and Native Instruments, earning her a distinctive reputation as a multifaceted artist and
thought leader.
Ceri – ‘Can’t Pay My Bils’ EP is out on Find Your Own Records. Vinyl end of Feb tbc. The remixes re vinyl only. And the originals will be released digitally in the summer.
Nottetempo are welcoming a new artist into their fold. Caramel Chameleon will be known already to many, his fluid brand of braindance having graced imprints like 030303 and Undersound’s NOUN sublabel. The sonic shapeshifter, Francesco Pio Nitti, arrives at the Milan label with Compact Demons.
Distorted beams and a steady kick introduce “…And You Feel So Lucky.” Drums descend into a glitchy soup of snare rolls before gentle notes take hold, a melody of soft synth warmth is dappled with breathy samples. Pound and thump are given a full workout in “Monologue Duetto,” echoes of glowsticks glimmer before the floor is calmed by silken keys. “d-_-b Future Is Blind” opens with oozing basslines and skittish beats. Tender pads and playful melodies bob and weave, breaks creating generous spaces for string-filled meditation to bloom in this absorbing work. Kicks return for “Inter27wined (cottage mix)”, a nervous energy soothed by globular synth-lines. A late evening feel permeates the piece, a comfort countered by Nitti’s bending and stretching of percussive patterns. For those needing a little more, Nottetempo have drafted in Legowelt for a remix of “…And You Feel So Lucky.” The track, available digitally, sees Wolfers sideline his own trademark sound to focus on the essence of the original. The result is considered interpretation, beats are relaxed and steady with a touch of analogue dreaminess coming to the fore.
There’s a sense that Caramel Chameleon is building up a head of steam. With each release, the Italian artist is further honing his sound as he crafts ever more intricate melodies and structures. Compact Demons is proof of this. In the same breath, Nottetempo continue to fortify their catalogue and roster with a release of excellent electronics. Quality cuts from Milan.
Erich Fromm's “Escape from Freedom” was published 83 years
ago. His assumption was that modern man, having freed himself
from the shackles of the old days and living freely, longs to
return to the totalitarian, destructive and conformist world. In
2024, the pluralistic and individualized way of life of the socalled West seems self-evident. Boundless freedom is suggested -
but we continue to flee. Utopias are crumbling and conservatism
is experiencing a renaissance. At the same time, the freedom to
decide “ to be able to stay” in contrast to “having to leave”
currently seems to represent a high value.
This EP, between the two producers from Germany and Ukraine, was
created in this field of tension. David Heine and Konstantin
Kost are already working together on the current AMAS project
(Odessa EP)
"Freedom From Esacape" adapts the former title of Erich Fromm's
central work, which is given a prominent role on this record.
Music and techno are freedom and escape at the same time:
transcendence and escapism. In interaction and contradiction at
the same time.
The cover picture was taken on 25 July 1909, when Louis Blériot
became the first person to cross the English Channel in an
aeroplane with the Blériot XI, which he had designed himself.
The reversal of the title and the idea for the cover artwork
came about during a conversation with the artist Jennifer Mattes
in Vienna.
About the tracks:
On the A-side, the two protagonists create a world of minimalist
dub techno, which also has melodic, flat side strands in its
narratives. The more than 60-year-old fragments from TV
interviews with Erich Fromm on the subject of freedom,decisions, constructivism and destruction are presented so
densely and rustlingly that you don't feel compelled to follow
the lecture. Instead, the spoken word corresponds with the
minimalist framework of the two pieces. The old audio recordings
are embedded as part of the composition. Some of it may be
understood and arouse the listener's curiosity, but again and
again you get lost in the repetitive swamp of sound, so that you
may understand more of the text each time you listen to it
without it imposing itself on you.
The two remixes of the first track take a different approach.
"Save Your Atoll" specifically frames and limits the spoken word
in its interpretation and embarks on a hypnotic journey that is
less worldly and more futuristic.
"Anna Kost" goes one step further by literally suffocating the
old man's spoken word, as if the destructive drum patterns were
trying to shut him up.
"Freedom From Escape" will be released on 18 October 2024 in a
physical edition of 200 records and is available digitally on
all common portals.
WEIRDMOUTHRECORDS2024
- A1: The Visitor Theme
- A2: Animal (Feat Roy Inc)
- A3: Japonica (Feat Ghost Culture)
- A4: The Family
- B1: Eat It
- B2: Maid
- B3: Mother
- B4: Oilpella (Feat Ziah Ziah
- B5: Licking Wounds
- B6: Daughter & Visitor
- C1: Tweak (Feat Josh Caffé)
- C2: Father's Feet
- C3: She's Giving Cray (Feat Joy Joseph)
- C4: Lament
- D1: The Screamer (Feat Jonjo Jury)
- D2: Glass Lin
- D3: Sexual Revolution
- D4: Church Cruise
- D5: Levitation
Spotlight Records is proud to announce the release of the original soundtrack for Bruce LaBruce’s new film, The Visitor. Composed by the acclaimed UK-based DJ and producer Hannah Holland, the soundtrack presents an eclectic mix of cerebral soundscapes and pulsating dance floor anthems, a defiantly bold score for a truly provocative narrative. The deluxe limited edition double vinyl package comes with a guerilla sticker sheet.
The Visitor sees the legendary filmmaker and photographer continue his decades-long creative journey with a transgressive reimagining of Pier Paolo Pasolini’s 1968 classic Teorema, set against the dystopian backdrop of a paranoid, xenophobic post-Brexit London. Washed ashore from the sea in a suitcase, a mysterious refugee disrupts the lives of a privileged white family, leading them through a series of explicit and transformative encounters. The film, which features performance artist Bishop Black amid a series of explicit, hardcore sex scenes, premiered at the 2024 Berlinale Film Festival.
With reverence and reference to Ennio Morricone’s iconic score for Teorema, Hannah Holland has crafted a soundtrack that both honors the original and brings a contemporary twist. The album features collaborations with a stellar lineup of artists from both the queer and electronic music underground, including Ghost Culture, Jonjo Jury, Josh Caffé, Joy Joseph, ROY INC, and Ziah Ziah.
- A1: Roni Size, Reprazent - Heroes (Kruder's Long Loose Boss
- A2: Alex Reece - Jazz Master (K&D Session Tm)
- B1: Bomb The Bass - Bug Powder Dust (K&D Session Tm)
- B2: Lamb - Trans Fatty Acid (K&D Session Tm)
- C1: Count Basic - Speechless (Drum 'N' Bass)
- C2: Rockers Hi-Fi - Going Under (K&D Session Tm)
- D1: Depeche Mode - Useless (K&D Session Tm)
- D2: Count Basic - Gotta Jazz (Richard Dorfmeister Remix)
- E1: Aphrodelics - Rollin' On Chrome (Wild Motherfucker Dub)
- E2: Knowtoryus - The Revenge Of The Bomberclad Joint (K&D S
- F1: Rainer Trüby Trio - Donaueschingen (Peter Kruder's Remix
- G1: David Holmes - Gone Ft Sarah Cracknell (K&D Session Tm
- G2: Sofa Surfers - Sofa Rockers (Richard Dorfmeister Remix)
- H1: Mama Oliver - Eastwest (Stoned Together)
- H2: Bomb The Bass - Bug Powder Dust (Dub)
- H3: Kruder & Dorfmeister - Boogie Woogie
- I1: Sin - Where Shall I Turn (K&D Session Tm Vol
- I2: Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
- I3: Kruder & Dorfmeister - Lexicon
- J1: Knowtoryus - Bomberclad Joint (K&D Session Tm)
- J2: Rockers Hi-Fi - Going Under (Evil Love & Insanity Dub)
- J3: Strange Cargo - Million Town (K&D Session Tm)
- K1: Count Basic - Speechless (Peter Kruder Vocal Mix)
- K2: Lewis Taylor - Lucky (Kruder & Dorfmeister Suicide Mix)
- L2: Ufo - L O.v.e. (K&D Session Tm)
- L3: Lewis Taylor - Lucky (Kruder & Dorfmeister Reprise Mix)
- K3: Roni Size - Heroes (Peter Kruder Powercut Mix)
- L1: Madonna - Nothing Really Matters (Kruder & Dorfmeister
Normal[58,78 €]
Occasionally an album comes along that seems to capture the mood of the time. "The K&D Sessions" was one. In the late 1990s no afterparty, smoking session or languid Sunday afternoon was complete without Kruder & Dorfmeister blasting from the Bang & Olufsen. Now approaching it"s 25th anniversary the lore around this iconic release, steeped in a silvery cloud of smoke, retains a star quality which only shines brighter as time hurtles on. With the original having sold well over a million copies by this point in time, it"s hard to imagine a mix or remix compilation being able to inform a movement like "The K&D Sessions" has. To celebrate this monumental milestone, we"ve created a limited boxset in 6LP and 3CD of "The K&D Sessions", mastered and cut by LA luminary Bernie Grundman for a luxurious listening experience, with newly designed inner sleeves using unseen photos from the original photo shoot. Inserted in the box is a forty-page booklet containing multitudes more never before seen photos from the same shoot and notes which recount humorous tales surrounding the duo and the people who spent time with them in this epoch. Included on the 6th LP is their legendary 11 minute shimmering remix of Madonna"s "Nothing Really Matters". The 6th LP also contains Peter Kruder"s Powercut Mix of Roni Size"s "Heroes" and K&D"s remix of U.F.O, "L.O.V.E.". In addition there are two cerebral alternate remixes of Lewis Taylor, one being completely dubbed and the other the using the vocal line for this beautiful gem, "Lucky" and a special remix of "Speechless" by Count Basic. These have been staples in K&D"s sets and now take their rightful place collected in the canon of "The Sessions".
"Killer edits!" - Gilles Peterson
Monologues boss Ben Gomori has found acclaim far and wide with his official edits of African gems for labels like Sterns Music and Analog Africa (for artists including Orchestra Baobab, Amadou Balake, Oby Onyioha). Here he rounds up four of his reworks of tasty tracks from artists across the Afro-Caribbean spectrum on four edits licensed from the good folk at Mr. Bongo, Soundway Records and Analog Africa.
South African legends Marumo's joyous 'Khomo Tsaka Deile Kae' gets a good juicing, full of triumphant energy, while Black Truth Band's infectious 'Umbala' is stripped back to a slinky, bumping disco groove. An exuberant slice of 1980s Camerooon comes from Emmanuel Kahe Et Jeanette Kemogne on 'Ye Medjuie', where rousing trumpet refrains meet undulating bass funk. Peter Britto's gorgeous lo-fi soca anthem 'I Want Your Love' rounds off the package, its sweet melancholy given an extra bit of energy for maximum dancefloor effect.
Support comes from the likes of Gilles Peterson, The Blessed Madonna, Make A Dance and Tigerbalm.
Or
Music From Memory is thrilled to introduce Dead Sound, the collaborative project of Marco Sterk (aka Young Marco) and Berlin-based pop-auteur John Moods. Both artists are no strangers to the label; Sterk forms one third of the trio Gaussian Curve, while Moods released the 2022 album ‘Hidden Gem’ with The Zenmenn.
Their collaboration was both planned and spontaneous; Sterk initially reached out in 2022 expressing his desire to work with Moods. The pair finally got together in 2024 to produce ‘Into The Void’, an album that burst into life over the course of a few creatively charged days in each other’s company.
Moods’ dream-like, emotionally charged music wears its heart on its sleeve; its very human vulnerability makes it a perfect match for Sterk’s strong sense of melody and textural sonic visions.
‘Into The Void’ carries these psychedelic traits in its DNA, but they exist layered deep amongst the shadows. Painting on a wide canvas that effortlessly skips between genres, the pair weave anything that inspires them into a truly unique tapestry; a bold attempt to touch at the beyond.
Exploring the space between perception (level of the mind) and the nature of the universe (actual level of reality) seems traditionally like an impossible task. But there’s gotta be a time and a space for the profound and this album invites the listener to go deep, letting go of concepts such as love and opening oneself up to one’s own authentic journey. This transformative force of healing is a central theme of ‘Into The Void’, a path that is lined with light and darkness in equal measure. But, as Moods says, “do not skip the darkness, let that door open and swallow you. And maybe you’ll find, it's not as dark as you perceived at first."
Sleeve art by Michael Willis.
Ephemera is the debut album by Fergus Jones, the artist formerly known as Perko, an Edinburgh-born, Copenhagen-based producer, DJ, and founder of the FELT record label. The nine-track release is out on Numbers on 18 October 2024.
Ephemera was developed with collaborative energy as the creative priority, produced by Jones alongside an extensive list of like-minded musicians, lyricists and vocalists including Huerco S, James K, Koreless, Birthmark, ELDON and Withdrawn of Bristol’s Cold Light crew, Laila Sakini and Lia T. The album embodies Jones’ inner journey as he ranges further than ever sonically and emotionally, emphasising instinct, intensity, tactility and rapture.
“Heima” was written and produced with Huerco S and James K between Iceland, Copenhagen and the United States’ East Coast. Developed during and named after the same Icelandic artist residency that birthed Perko & Huerco S’ debut collaboration “Prang,” “Heima” is a shimmering piece of fortified trip-pop featuring vocals from James K, appearing here following solo releases for AD 93 and collaborations with Yves Tumor. “Tight Knit” aligns Jones’ graceful production with the raw emotions thundering from the performances of Birthmark, ELDON and Withdrawn of Cold Light, the shadowy Bristolian collective channelling the city’s deep sonic history into an equally rich future.
In his own words, Jones says “This album was made over the last five years in various studio and outdoor locations around the world, reflecting my ongoing emphasis on natural collaboration as a creative ideal. It’s my most personal record yet, written with experimentation and an open attitude as guiding lights.”
The album makes a distinctive impact that reverberates and glows long after its runtime. Analogue audio sculpting, adaptive processes and imaginative approaches to creating sound are at the forefront – whether resulting from an endless exchange of iterative stems with Huerco S, or hydrophone recordings with Koreless. Evocative vocal performances and songwriting combine with weighty sound design, gliding easily between the organic and synthetic to reflect and expand the thin spaces of transcendence in each.
Another big Shaka tune from the late 1980s - Bionic Singer's anti-apartheid shot 'Botha Warning' - coming out of the same Jamaazima vaults as Hugh Maddo's Pop Style LP that we reissued late last year under the kind courtesy of the imprint's Nami Harmon.
The late Bionic Singer a.k.a Osbert Maddo, or more commonly Madoo, was brought up in East Kingston and as a child attended the legendary Alpha Boys School. He began singing together with his brother UU Madoo (aka Hugh Maddo) and soon became a regular on the Stereophonic soundsystem during the late 1970s. Recording mainly with Joe Gibbs & Errol Thompson and for Winston Riley's famed Techniques stable through the early '80s, he then moved to the US in 1983. Ceasing to record for a period, he returned towards the end of the decade under the Bionic Singer alias on the Bronx-based Jamaazima label, recording this searing indictment of South Africa's apartheid government under P.W. Botha following his stroke in 1989.credits
- A1: Basement 5 - Silicon Chip
- A2: Disconnection - Bali Ha'i (Us Discomix)
- A3: A Certain Ratio - Shake Up
- A4: 23 Skidoo - Language
- B1: Pil - Home Is Where The Heart Is
- B2: Mark Stewart And The Maffia - Jerusalem
- B3: The Unknown Cases - Masimbabele (The Original Version)
- B4: Allez Allez - She's Stirring Up (Dub)
- C1: Animal Magic - Standard Man
- C2: Lifetones - Distance No Object
- C3: Snakefinger - I Gave Myself To You
- C4: Startled Insects - Overrzoom
- D1: Maximum Joy - Silent Street / Silent Dub
- D2: African Headcharge - Throw It Away
- D3: Ep-4 - Tide Gauge
- D4: 400 Blows - Declaration Of Intent
(incl 40p fanzine written by Matt Annis with photographs by Simon Pyke and Ian Brodie) Postpunk Theory is a meticulously curated compilation by the legendary Tony Thorpe, known for his work with The Moody Boys, 400 Blows, and The KLF. These classic tracks were played at parties by Thorpe at the time, making them his personal classics. The compilation features 16 rare and sought-after tracks from the post-punk era, including works by Mark Stewart and The Maffia, Basement 5, 23 Skidoo and more.
Defining post-punk is no easy task. While punk was defined by a raw, rebellious simplicity, post-punk (1978-1986) expanded into a diverse array of sounds and ideas. It maintained punk's independent spirit but embraced experimentation, incorporating influences from various musical and cultural traditions, resulting in a movement far more eclectic and fragmented than its predecessor.
At its core, post-punk broke away from traditional rock structures, blending genres like industrial, goth, and punk-funk with emerging dance music cultures. This era's spirit of innovation and defiance against musical norms continues to inspire, making post-punk a pivotal moment in music history that defies easy categorization.
Tony Thorpe presents Postpunk Theory - Alpha ? is a meticulously curated compilation by the legendary Tony Thorpe, known for his work with The Moody Boys, 400 Blows, and The KLF. These classic tracks were played at parties by Thorpe at the time, making them his personal classics. The compilation features 16 rare and sought-after tracks from the post-punk era, including works by Mark Stewart and The Maffia, Basement 5, 23 Skidoo, African Headcharge, and more.
Growing up in a vibrant musical environment in South London, Thorpe was deeply influenced by the eclectic sounds around him, from jazz-funk to Brit-Funk, and later, the post-punk records he discovered. As Thorpe recalls, "Post-punk was a mishmash of different cultures and ideas. Out of post-punk came dance music culture. That period was the most creative time because the culture was in its experimental phase." This compilation captures that innovative spirit, offering a glimpse into the era that shaped Thorpe's musical journey.
The album comes as a limited 2xLP set, accompanied by an extensive 40-page fanzine. The fanzine, written by Matt Annis (Join The Future), dives deep into the post-punk movement, offering insight and context enriched with striking photographs by Simon Pyke and Ian Brodie.
- A1: Tower Of Power - Addicted To You
- A2: Carmichael Musiclover - Pure Sweetness
- A3: Dw3 - Never Gonna Stop
- A4: Lou Draws - Come Over
- B1: Charlie Wilson - Forever Valentine
- B2: Will Downing - Right Where You Are
- B3: Super Db - Kool Funk (Chris Bangs Extended Remix)
- B4: Jb Rose - Back To Love
- C1: Johnny Baker - It's Your Night
- C2: Randy Hall - A Beautiful Dream
- C3: Cool Million - Keep On (Feat Matthew Winchester - Boogie Back Remix)
- C4: The Weather Girls - Stand Up (Rob Hardt Mix)
- D1: Sam Wills - Undercover
- D2: Privatproject - Don't Walk That Way (Feat Stefanie S - Chic A Delic Xtended Mix)
- D3: Paprika Soul - Standing Right Here
Expansion’s most successful and longest running compilation series returns with its 2020 collection. It’s the 20th Anniversary edition. The concept remains, the tracks better than ever, fifteen must-have modern soul room gems telling the story of the past 12 months. Tracks here have topped UK soul charts including many that have not been available in all formats. Participants this year include Charlie Wilson (biggest dancefloor spin before lockdown), Tower of Power, Will Downing, Randy Hall, JB Rose The Weather Girls, and Sam Wills all prolific on soul radio through the summer with other artists delivering signature songs of 2020. Then there’s the biggest revival track of the year from Johnny Baker, “It’s Your Night”, the 300 copy limited edition 7” pressing now exchanging hands upwards of £50 a copy.
Amazing deep groovin minimalistic anthems! Incl. Tonga Fidan, RAD & Tech Remixes.
Techfui returns with another stand out 12” this summer as label founder Salah Sadeq delivers a refined remix package of the sought after “Hibiki Awa” a track which was initially released four years ago with studio companion Rashed Al Dhaen on their “Locus” release. A partnership that was built during covid restrictions, clicking directly when starting to jam, all whilst enjoying the “Hibiki Awa” Japanese whisky during the extended sessions.
For the tastemakers amongst us, it is great news that the Techfui imprint continues to carry the torch, presenting sleek and classy house music for the dance floor. After many years of producing music together in Bahrain and releasing music, four years on we get to appreciate the masterpiece track once more with this heavy hitting, and eclectic remix package.
The limited, and coloured wax will feature the track receiving a new lease of life from Romanian producer Techu, the ever prolific Tolga Fidan with two refreshingtakes, and Rashed himself steps in for a reshape of the original. Four meandering cuts exploring a multitude of textures ready to make an impression on your record bag. The record also comes in a unique sleeve design from Georgian artist NUMB, and the campaign will also feature a t- shirt design on Everpress seeing the the artists collaborate further.
- A1: Michel Cleis Feat. Totó La Momposina - La Mezcla (Paul Kalkbrenner Remix)
- A2: Freaks - Where Were You When The Lights Went Out (Extended 12" Version)
- B1: Undercatt - Britannia
- B2: Juliet - Avalon (F*** Me I'm Famous Remix By David Guetta & Joachim Garraud)
- C1: Lustral - Everytime (Nalin & Kane Mix)
- C2: Walter One - Startrack
- D1: Markus Schulz Presents Elevation - Clear Blue
- D2: Sander Kleinenberg - Sacred
- E1: Whirlpool Productions - From Disco To Disco (Extended Disco Mix)
- F1: Smoke City - Mr. Gorgeous (And Miss Curvaceous) (Mood Ii Swing Vocal Mix)
- F2: Tony Di Bart - The Real Thing (Original 12" Dance Mix)
- G1: Binary Finary - 1998 (Paul Van Dyk Remix)
- G2: Delegate - Want You To Stay (Remix)
- H1: Cevin Fisher - Loving You (When It Comes To) (Cevin Fisher's 2001 Summer Mix)
- H2: Dj On - Super Sexy Girl (Deeper Discomix)
- I1: Michael Forzza & Dimitriandreas - Kahana
- I2: Fanny Cadeo - I Want Your Love (Mr. Marvin Mix)
- J1: Jason Downs Feat. Milk - Cherokee (John Creamer & Stephane K Remix)
- J2: Wishmountain - Radio
- K1: Soma - Soma Romanz
- K2: Didier Sinclair - Lovely Flight
- L1: Kosmas Epsilon - Innocent Thoughts
- M1: Maria Nayler - Angry Skies (Terrestrial Vox Mix)
- M2: Nikolai - Ready To Flow
- O1: Tomcraft - Prosac
- O2: Paragliders - Oasis
- P1: Josh One - Contemplation (King Britt Funke Remix)
- P2: Sarah Mclachlan - Fallen (Gabriel & Dresden Anti-Gravity Mix)
- Q1: Perry O'neil - Wave Force
- R1: Corvin Dalek - Pornoground (Mr Sam's Acid Pornstar Remix)
- S1: Travel - Pray To Jerusalem (Incisions Remix)
- T1: Jamnesia - My Memory Is Back
- T2: Reckless - Still In The Groove (Def Offenders Remix)
- N1: Dj Buzz - Situations
- N2: Aerosoul - Celebrating Life In Independance
Limited Edition! The "LaBush - Temple of House" Volume 2 Vinyl Box Set for the 30th Anniversary of the Legendary Club!
Barely six months after the phenomenal success of the first box set, La Bush - Temple of House makes history once again, celebrating its 30th anniversary with the release of Volume 2 in a limited edition 10x12" vinyl box set. A true must-have for collectors and electronic music enthusiasts!
This exclusive box set features no less than 35 tracks, an incredible number for a vinyl collection, offering unparalleled pressing quality that guarantees an exceptional listening experience, perfectly suited for any turntable. Each track has been meticulously remastered, preserving the essence of the original versions while enhancing every sonic detail.
The deluxe packaging of this box set is a work of art in itself, designed to captivate the most discerning vinyl lovers. Moreover, with tracksfrom legendary artists like Paul Kalkbrenner, Paul van Dyk, David Guetta, Tomcraft, Oliver Lieb, Matthew Herbert, and La Bush resident Mr. Sam, this box set is an essential treasure.
For those who already own the first box set, this new volume is the perfect opportunity to complete your collection in the best possible way, adding a new centerpiece to your La Bush ensemble.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to add a masterpiece to your vinyl collection. Order now before it's too late!
White Lunar, an underground electronic music label from Seoul, South Korea.
Founded by Lyumin and Oho, is excited to release its first project.
This debut features four talented artists in the world Oho, ffrvnco, Stefano Andriezzi, and Jucid. Each artist brings their own unique sound, creating a diverse and powerful collection of tracks.
Get ready to experience a fresh and energetic mix of electronic music from these rising artists.
Zy The Way hails from Taiwan and are a jazz ensemble that interlaces their dynamic sounds with ancient Chinese poetry compiled by Confucius. They also bring in more contemporary compositions which results in an utterly original sound and great gateway to some of the world's oldest literary works. They recently finished a debut full-length album and now the single 'Blue Collar' from it comes on limited edition vinyl. The track tells the ancient tale of young scholars in love with a powerful narrative and moving melodies. The one and only DJ Spinna steps up on the flip to offer his own classy deep-house remix.
Argentinian starboy TOBI inaugurates the new Italian imprint Spirito Novanta with his high classy House sound. The first part of this double cut features four shimmering cuts that hit deep. That's the spirit !
Long overdue, we are happy to welcome Damiano von Erckert to Cocoon Recordings with his debut single, bringing late summer vibes that were well worth the wait. Damiano's lovely energy shines through in this EP, resulting in music that blends soulful character with his signature house sound.
“Steam (Staub Mix)” lifts your spirits from the very first beat, and the summery vibe of the housey Rhodes piano brings a smile to your face. Yet, the track retains a somewhat wistful and melancholy feel. Skillful intonation gives the break a jazzy feel, it's this friction that makes it special. Von Erckert showcases his skill with this playful arrangement, sure to have dancers' hands reaching skyward. The second track “Das Was Not Around” is a masterclass in purism, where simplicity meets profound emotion. Swirly synth pads unfold to create a dreamy, immersive atmosphere, pulling listeners into its depths. Despite its introspective title, a sense of hopefulness permeates the track, as if reaching for light through the shadows. Damiano’s approach allows every element to shine, making the deep grooves and ethereal sounds feel both intimate and expansive. It’s a journey of reflection yet imbued with a quiet optimism that lingers long after the final beat fades.
The essence of reduced Chicago drumming is brilliantly embodied in “Roh”, channeling a raw, stripped-back rhythm that strikes with precision and purpose. This forms the bedrock of a composition that feels timeless. The track carries an unmistakable grandeur, echoing the majestic hymns of certain legendary French artists. As the beats develop, they evoke a profound sense of reverence and nostalgia, seamlessly blending classic house influences with a modern edge. It's a track that honors the roots while confidently advancing the frontiers of contemporary house music. "Fantazia 93" is a nostalgic dive into a ‘90s House vibe, channeling the essence of that unforgettable era with authenticity. Damiano's signature sounds are front and center, infusing the track with a unique touch that’s fresh while reminiscent of classic house anthems. The track exudes an Ibiza after-hour feeling, transporting listeners to those sun-drenched days where time seems to stand still. It’s a sonic journey that feels like sunbeams warming the skin, bathing the senses in a radiant, feel-good energy that resonates long after.
Step into the realm of legends with « This Thing EP » by Lukas Lyrestam & Simoncino, featuring the iconic voice of Robert Owens—a true gem on vinyl. This release brings together the visionary talents of rising stars Lukas Lyrestam and Simoncino with the remix artistry of house music luminary Chez Damier, crafting a blend of past and future that resonates with the magic of timeless house. The EP opens with « This Thing » a creation by Lyrestam & Simoncino, elevated by Robert Owens’ soulful vocals that weave effortlessly into the groove, setting the tone for a transcendent sonic journey. Chez Damier, one of the genre's most revered figures, takes the reins with a masterful remix that transforms « This Thing » into something even greater, infusing his deep and emotive style to further enrich the track's essence.
« This Thing EP » is more than a release; it's a celebration of house music’s enduring legacy, uniting legends across generations. Available in limited edition on Skylax Records, this vinyl is a must-have for true aficionados. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of house history secure your copy and join the legacy.
If ever a producer could be hailed as the true heir to New York's storied house music throne, it's undoubtedly Mike Terra—and his new, seriously weighty Rhythm of Love EP on Nat Wendell's Depths imprint is a testament to that in strides.
The EP begins with the peak-time infectiousness of A1 "7th & C," setting the commanding tone for what's to come. The fittingly Big Apple-titled A2 "27th Street (Dub Mix)" follows, a rollicking shuffler whose fat kicks, stabbing synths, and snapping cymbals recall Johnick's steamier cuts. New York in the 90’s is indeed the frame of reference for this EP, and the B-side finds Terra doing what he does best: creating bumping, stomping, and uplifting must-have workouts for the floor. Whether you prefer the swarthy slapping, Todd Terry-esque groove of title track B1 "Rhythm of Love" or the conga-driven, deep-padded chunk of late-night house that is
B2 "City Got You Trippin'," a late-night jam crafted for those still standing, both tracks are bound to find their places in the record bags of DJs—and heads—worldwide.
This October Jamiroquai celebrates the 30th anniversary of ‘The Return Of The Space Cowboy’. Their second album, it will be reissued as a double-LP set on 140g “moon grey” vinyl and includes Michael Gray’s Good Vibe Zone edit of ‘Space Cowboy’ - which has never been released on a physical product. The packaging has also been re-designed for this anniversary release including foil enhancement of the original cover design.
‘The Return Of The Space Cowboy’ is the follow up album to the band’s huge 1993 debut, ‘Emergency On Planet Earth’. Selling over 3 million copies globally, ‘Emergency On Planet Earth’ put the band on the map with their distinctive sound standing them apart from other popular acts of the time.
‘The Return Of The Space Cowboy’ was released just one year later and was met with great critical and public acclaim. Certified Platinum in the UK, Japan and France, it achieved chart success in multiple countries and spawned the single ‘Space Cowboy’ which remains one of their biggest tracks to date. Critically the album was lauded with Rolling Stone saying "Jamiroquai parlay jazzy soul pop so tight it crackles… Nowadays, when most funk comes out of cans, Jamiroquai's live spark glows", The Guardian said “... this second album sounds like vintage Stevie Wonder and Johnny 'Guitar' Watson, but Kay's vocals are as snappy and engaging as his extrovert persona" and Q magazine said it “combines intricate arrangements with several long, free-form workouts crammed with virtuoso performances".
For many, this album is defined by some of the most complex songwriting the band have ever produced and Jay Kay called it “one of our most creative and accomplished albums”. The process of making the album came with many challenges. Having to recruit a new drummer (after Nick Van Gelder failed to return from holiday), the band were met with second-album syndrome with Kay proclaiming since that lyrics weren’t coming "... because suddenly I wasn't homeless, I had everything I needed. So I found myself creating problems to write about." The songwriting process was complex for the band as Jay Kay was often dissatisfied with the results, leading songs to be scrapped or rewritten, but half-way through recording Kay wrote ‘Space Cowboy’, a song which reflects darker times during the recording session, and it became the catalyst of creative inspiration helping them finish the record. On this 30th anniversary edition of the album Space Cowboy gets a modern dance makeover courtesy of DJ Michael Gray, shedding new light on the track and emphasising it’s already infectious groove.
The album built on the success of ‘Emergency On Planet Earth’ and Jamiroquai have become one of the UK’s most pioneering and ground breaking bands of the past 30 years. Pushing boundaries and bringing jazz and funk to a mainstream audience, their sound is not only unique, but immediately recognisable.
The saga continues. With his second V/A vinyl release, Giano Electronics has the pleasure to host a great producer like Teslasonic with a proper electro-bomb, also joined by stunning electro tracks from Direct Y, the acid duo Twist Head Groove, Stefano Rocchi and iQbit’s atmospheric vibes.
Artwork by Abu Qadim Haqq
Masterd by Andrea Merlini
Future sounds from the eternal city
- A1: Flore
- B1: John Iii
- B2: Us
- C1: Just-Test
- D1: We The Blessed
- E1: Mother Africa
- F1: Sweet Evil Miss" Kisianga
- F2: Virginia
- G1: C Marianne Alicia
- G2: Dr Oliver W. Lancaster
- H1: Palm Sunday
- H2: Prima - Mr A.a
- I1: Keno - Exactement
- I2: Providence Baptiste Church
- J1: Just Test
- J2: Work And Pray
- J3: Rib Crib I
- K1: Rib Crib Ii
- K2: Loving Kindness
- K3: Dogtown
- L1: Love Always
Souffle Continu records presents Byard Lancaster – The Complete Palm Recordings 1973-1974, the definitive package of Philadelphia-born jazz wizard Byard Lancaster including his 4 legendary albums released on Jef Gilson’s Palm Records in the 1970s, Us, Mother Africa, Exactement and Funny Funky Rib Crib, along with the first ever standalone edition of Love Always, a fifteen minute modal jazz beauty plus a 20 page booklet with rare photos and in-depth article about Byard Lancaster’s Parisian years by Pierre Crépon.
At the beginning of the 1960s, at the Berklee College of Music, Byard Lancaster met some feisty friends: Sonny Sharrock, Dave Burrell and Ted Daniel. It is easy to see why he rapidly became involved in free jazz. Once he was settled in New York, he appeared on Sunny Murray Quintet, recorded under the leadership of the drum crazy colleague of Albert Ayler.
In 1968, the saxophonist and flutist recorded his first album under his own name: It’s Not Up To Us. The following year he came to Paris in the wake of... Sunny Murray. He would come back to France in 1971 (again with Murray) and in 1973 (without Murray for a change). This is when he met Jef Gilson, the pianist and producer who encouraged him to record under his own name again. On Palm Records (Gilson’s label), he would release four albums: Us, Mother Africa, Exactement and Funny Funky Rib Crib.
“Us”, the first of the four records was recorded on November 24th, 1973 with Sylvin Marc on electric bass (a Fender... Lancaster?) and the evergreen Steve McCall on drums.
On the album, the trio works from the John Coltrane model; free jazz shook up by the timely contributions of the bassist, followed by a mesmerizing atmospheric music. Then, Lancaster delivers a sinuous solo path, which is a reminder of his unique tone. On the album’s companion single, the trio launches into great black music of a different genre which would lead the clairvoyant François Tusques to claim that Byard Lancaster is an “authentic representative of soul/free jazz”, to sum up this is Great Black Music! A few months after recording “Us”, Lancaster recorded “Mother Africa” along with Clint Jackson III, a trumpeter, partner of Khan Jamal or Noah Howard on other recordings.
On march 8th, 1974, Lancaster and Jackson headed up a group composed of Jean-François Catoire (electric and double bass), Keno Speller (percussion) and Jonathan Dickinson (drums). Together, they create an immediate impression. From the first seconds of “We The Blessed”, they develop a free jazz which rapidly abandons any virulence under the effect of blues and soul based interventions. When Gilson’s composition “Mother Africa” begins, listeners are transported into the studio, listening to the musicians setting up: chatting and joking... Then comes the melody: a dozen or so notes of a repeated theme which is accelerated and deformed according to their whims... The jazz played by the association Byard Lancaster / Clint Jackson III is rare: creative AND recreational. “We the blessed”, is apt listening to this again today!
The recording of “Exactement” required two sessions in the studio: February 1st and May 18th 1974 – in between the two dates, Lancaster recorded, alongside Clint Jackson, the excellent Mother Africa.
Two names appear on the cover of “Exactement”: Lancaster (Byard) and Speller (Keno). Byard Lancaster wanted to be precise, moving regularly from one instrument to another: first on piano, which was the first instrument he learned. On “Sweet Evil Miss Kisianga”, his inspiration is first and foremost Coltrane (even if leaning more towards Alice than John), this announces the storm to follow.
It is Lancaster’s horn-playing which really stands out: on alto (the sound of which is transformed by an octavoice on one track, "Dr. Oliver W. Lancaster") or soprano saxophones, as well as on flute or bass clarinet, the musician walks a tightrope making the most of all the risks he takes. Using the full register of his instruments, he has fun with the possibilities.
Then, Lancaster invokes or evokes Ornette Coleman, Eric Dolphy and even Prokofiev, before going into a danse alongside Keno Speller on percussion. Above all, he has a unique sound. Byard Lancaster, on whatever instrument he plays and by continually seeking, always ends up hitting the right note... ends up by playing exactement the note he had to play.
“Funny Funky Rib Crib” is an unforgettable recording (made up of several sessions dating from the middle of 1974) of creative jazz overwhelmed by funk and soul. If Lancaster had already made successful albums in the same genre – notably New Horizons, under the name Sounds Of Liberation which he co-led with Khan Jamal –, this one is an homage to James Brown and Sammy Davis enjoying the company of a host of guests including François Tusques (electric piano), Clint Jackson III (trumpet), François Nyombo (guitar), Joseph Traindl (trombone)...
Funny Funky Rib Crib’s cover is a three-quarter profile portrait of the saxophonist (who can also be heard on flute, piano and even vocals), however, on the record, it is the whole group, inspired and frenetic, that tests the melodies of “Just Test”, “Dogtown” or “Rib Crib” – the two versions of which display leader Lancaster’s art of nuance. On both sides of the album, the group also moves into a calmer groove, infused by blues and soul, “Work And Pray” and “Loving Kindness” are meditative tracks where listeners can lay back and relax before asking for more: Funny Funky Rib Crib!
The magnificent “Love Always” was originally released on the fourth (and last) volume of the Jef Gilson Anthology series released in 1975.
Recorded on 8th March 1974, it is a beautiful 15-minute-long modal jazz piece. Four notes from the bass (the relentless Jean-François Catoire, who makes up the rhythm section alongside drummer Jonathan Dickinson and percussionist Keno Speller), and the group is up and running!
On piano, Gilson shows the subtle tact of a sideman, leaving the lions’ share of the place to the horns. This allows us to hear the trumpet of Clint Jackson III and the alto (which sometimes sounds almost flute-like) of Byard Lancaster each staking their claim in a long hallucinatory march which moves from moments of direct exaltation to profoundly sensitive collective playing. And if further proof was required of the confidence that Byard Lancaster and Jef Gilson inspire, “Love Always” provides it on this one sided release exclusive to the box set.
A sense of destiny hangs over Sentir Que No Sabes, Mabe Fratti’s fourth solo-credited album released in a five year span. Her work has always possessed a finely tuned sense of drama capable of expressing a range of emotional states, and across this new album, she conveys the struggle to process various relationships or situations–and the actions that come next. Sentir Que No Sabes is urgent and clear, poppy, generous and approachable, while showcasing a considerable emotional hinterland. It is also, as Fratti is quick to mention, “groovy.”
Written and recorded with her partner, multi-instrumentalist, and co-composer Héctor Tosta (I.La Católica, Titanic), Sentir Que No Sabes is the result of an intense, detail-oriented process. Fueled by a new confidence gained in their collaborative project, Titanic, and its critically acclaimed 2023 LP, Vidrio, the two hunkered down in the familiarity of their studio (aka Tinho Studios) to bash out the initial sonic coordinates of her new record. “We talked and talked, and discussed ways of playing and recording, until things became inevitable,” Fratti explains. “We recorded a bunch of demos at our home studio and that meant we had a lot of time to re-edit and experiment. We really dug in. We were super focused on detail.” Tosta also took up the controls as producer and arranger-in-chief for all additional instruments. The album was later completed at Willem Twee Studios in Den Bosch in the Netherlands, and Pedro y el Lobo Studios and Soy Sauce Studios, in Mexico City.
For the final studio recordings, the pair were joined by drummer Gibran Andrade and trumpetist Jacob Wick to fill out and expand on Tosta’s percussion and brass arrangements. This small group of friends were able to work quickly and openly, and without fear: a testament to the exhaustive groundwork put in at Tinho Studios. This can be heard in three short, intermediary tracks that also manage to be the most aggressive on the record: “Kitana” (a scratch-laden instrumental that acts as a strange prelude for the last track, “Angel nuevo”) and a pair of two-minute instrumental interludes, “Elastica” I and II. None are throwaway mood pieces; rather they act as emotional cue cards, and hint at the way Fratti and Tosta created the overall atmosphere of Sentir Que No Sabes.
A strong sense of rhythm irrigates the sound from the jump, as heard on the glorious opening track, “Kravitz.” Here, the brilliant plucked cello line acts as a bassline and props up the steady thump of the kick drum. The cello’s growl serves as a conduit for a set of slightly paranoid lyrics that tell us “Quizás haya oídos en el techo” (“maybe there are ears in the ceiling”), while the song also introduces another staple of the record: the clever brass stabs, whistles, parps, and other interjections that paint a canvas of traffic in a city. It’s a postmodern, widescreen sound that for some might recall The Blue Nile’s Hats.
Sentir Que No Sabes is a record full to the brim with a modern pop sensibility, invoked by the sort of magpie spirit that ensnares anything it can find, repositioning sounds for the here and now. The keys and melody on the melancholy “Pantalla azul” (“Blue screen error”) transport us back to the glossy mid-1980s. “Oídos” (“Ears”) is a beautiful slice of contemporary, hybrid pop, in which Fratti’s vocal lines delicately spin themselves around the lean structures erected by the brass and drums, and the descending “plink” of a set of piano chords. Then we have a gloriously strong ending with the swell of “Angel nuevo” (“New angel”), another cinematic track full of gentle, instrument-rich swells and eddies that manages to be almost endless in its range–and yet intensely personal, as Fratti’s voice is close, almost whispering in your ear. A much needed lullaby for our fractious times.
The lyrics, for their part, have a stop-start quality to them, and hint at the small, incremental emotional taxes we pay through just living our lives. They circle around the music like birds waiting to swoop. There is something of the spiritual in all of Fratti’s work that expresses itself in a form of yearning: she looks to new horizons while personal dramas find themselves internalized, contextualized, and then dealt with through metaphor. Here, she was keen to mention Tosta’s constant encouragement in her finding a path to best sing or phrase her words to impart their maximum effect. “Hector was super inquisitive about my lyrics and asked me questions about what I meant, which sometimes is something you don't wonder so much about in isolation,” Fratti explains. “Besides, he is a great poet, and you can see that in what he did on the Titanic record. This made me go deeper into my lyric writing and definitely transformed it into something that I feel super happy about now.”
Take “Enfrente” (“In Front”), a track that initially comes across as a languid, glossy number, with plucked cello strings standing in for a bass line and brittle synth parts. Soon we catch on to a brilliant minor chord switch, which mirrors the fear and doubt expressed in the lyrics as someone “trembles up to the podium” in a “search for meaning.” There’s also the startling introduction of a vocoder in “Quieras o no” (“Whether you want it or not”); it comes precisely at the point Fratti sings “Quieras o no es un desastre” (“Whether you want it or not, it's a disaster”). Moments like these leave room for interpretation and, over time, create a strong bond between the listener and the record.
In fact, across Sentir Que No Sabes, each phrase–whether instrumental or vocal–becomes at some level emblematic of acts and moods that impart deep emotional significance. We see this best on “Intento fallido” (“Failed attempt”), which could be the score to feeling trapped in self-doubt, only to suddenly be sprung free by the song’s gloriously upbeat ending. On “Márgen del índice” (“Index margin”), the quicksilver switch between initial disharmony and a beautiful melody is breathtaking, all augmented by evocative arrangements, textured production, and the slightly playful, gnomic lyrics. The track’s emotional ecosystem allows another brilliant ending, which uses the simple repeated phrase, “Cómo lo va a ver?” (“How are you going to see it?”).
So what to make of Sentir Que No Sabes? High gloss Pastoralism? The sound of a city-bound, post-post modern soulscape? No matter the emotions evoked, it's the work of an artist coming into their own, and creating a benchmark record.
After an extensive catalog of digital deep, minimal and tech house releases, Mole Music makes its debut in the realm of vinyl with a fresh selection of dancefloor weapons from a fine array of artists, each offering their unique takes on deep house, tech, and minimal sounds. The A-side kicks off with JHNS "Nevermind", a minimalistic, low-end heavyweight groove driven by rubbery drums and a tight bassline. Steve End & Colau follow with a silky late-night hypnotic track, while El Funkador closes the A-side with an uplifting, drum-shuffling deep house cut, complete with funky synths and chord progressions. On the B-side, "Night Strobe", a collaboration between Alben, LAJE, and Erratic, brings a retro-futuristic feel with a fast-paced, garage-tinged vibe. This sets the stage for HOT DLVRY's "Friction", a thumping deep groove led by spacious chords and keys, all anchored by an analog bassline. To round off this well-balanced compilation, Craftsmanship delivers a warm, humid deep house sound featuring bold chords and punchy drums - one of the defining motifs of this standout EP.
Wellington, New Zealand-based producer, drummer and band leader Cory Champion aka Borrowed CS delivers his second release on Planet Trip Records ~ Rise N Shine EP, expanding the infectious outsider boogie sound he explored on ‘Mystic Shuffle’ (off 2020’s Balance/Ascend EP) into a six-song suite of neon-lit machine funk, mutant post-disco and uptempo future soul. Draped in synthesisers that sparkle and glitter like summer sunlight hitting the harbour waters, the programmed Roland TR-606 drums and keyboard bass on these club tracks absolutely snap, wobble and groove.
From the space-aged melodies and throwback electro bounce of ‘All My People’ (featuring the pioneering British electronic soul vocalist Steve Spacek) to the dialled-in dancefloor weaponry of the title track and ‘Potplant’, the A-side of Rise n Shine unfolds like Friday night at a 1980s roller disco. On the flip, Champion reconnects with the idiosyncratic Māori singer-songwriter Mara TK to pen another golden-voiced chapter in the hi-tek South Pacific future soul story with ‘Hearsay’ before diving into some deep mid-tempo body music on ‘Subsonix’ and ‘Mystic Dream’. One for the dancefloor dreamers, Rise n Shine, will be available in 12” vinyl (limited to 300 copies) and digital versions.
Lab Music’s latest release presents an EP from various artists, each offering a unique perspective on electronic music. This release showcases the label’s commitment to experimentation and innovation, allowing artists to freely explore their sound. Side A sets the stage with “Cylinder,” a collaborative effort between Slak and Stephanie Sykes. This track takes listeners on a journey into ambient-rooted breaktechno, featuring cinematic pads and powerful drums. Appleblim follows with “Every Blade Of Grass,” a wild break-electro beat that combines ferocious reese bass and solid synths. Side B begins with Datafive’s “My PC Is Not Political Correct,” delivering his personal take on low-tempo drum and bass merged with wistful idm melodies, and the usual dose of sound design. The compilation concludes with Anna Kost “W03 X” delves into the world of futuristic electro, with accurate sound design and drum programming combined with spiritual atmospheres. This EP offers a diverse listening experience, showcasing the talent and creativity of the artists involved. Mastered by Beau Thomas at Ten Eight Seven. Artwork by Geso.
All lights reserved. Lab Music 2024
- A1: Steve Watson - Born To Boogie
- A2: Jam Band 80 - Jammin
- B1: Sonny Khoeblal - Craziest
- B2: Errol De La Fuente - Happiness
- C1: Sumy - The Funky "G" (Only Comes At Night)
- C2: Explosion - Wakka Mang
- C3: Eddie Tailor - Love Dance
- D1: Ronald Snijders - Kaseko Attack
- D2: Astaria - Jamasa Roro
- D3: Sound Track Orchestra And Silvy - Tirsa Song
2024 Repress
A compilation of highly collectable and rare Surinamese 45's and LP cuts. Compiled by Antal Heitlager & Thomas Gesthuizen this is the follow up to the Kindred Spirits released Surinam! compilation. This volume goes even deeper into the field of 70ties and 80ties funk music from the Surinamese dance floors...Recommended!
Boudica is proud to present their first record of 2024, featuring an artist who holds a special place within the platform - none other than DJ and producer Wallis.
DJ, live-act and former mastering engineer, Wallis speaks for a generation searching for novelty and emotion in the electronic music realm.
Sharp engineering skills coupled with a unique approach to sound design allowed her to develop a trademark sound. Using an array of synthesisers, effects units, and experimental studio techniques, Wallis produces melancholic electronic music rapidly shifting between different patterns and atmospheres.
She tours as a DJ and Live Act around the world, having played large festivals such as DGTL or renowned clubs like Berghain, and will happily play at a large stage one day but at a small intimate sweaty basement the next.
In 2024, she started producing music for fashion shows and debuted that project by creating the music for the entire Natasha Zinko runway show at London Fashion Week February 2024.
The EP's opening track, "Hell is a Girl from Before (Rainy Summer Mix)," introduces a stirring blend of emotions. Starting with an emotional melody, accompanied by synths and a plucked instrument, it swiftly transitions into energetic segments driven by the drums. Vocals emerge, their words almost imperceptible, adding an intimate layer to the experience. The track maintains a steady pace, evoking the ambience of a rainy summer day. This creates a melancholic yet hopeful mood, transporting listeners through a journey of introspection.
As "Protect Me From My Friends" unfolds, it feels like being whisked away to a new dimension, greeted by otherworldly, robotic sounds. The introspective journey of the previous track mutates into raw emotions, driven forward by a relentless bassline. Clear vocals take the forefront, guiding the listener through the sonic landscape, only to be interrupted by the commanding presence of the bassline, which assumes the main character role.
In "Sleeping Pills Are Gone," an atmospheric and gloomy introduction is abruptly interrupted by an acid and hefty bassline that dynamically evolves throughout the track, plunging the listener into an eyes-open dream born of a sleepless night. The vocals echo the track's title, creating a haunting repetition. Wallis strategically grants brief breaks, constructing a powerful crescendo that heightens the experience. These are momentary escapes before immersing the listener once more into the hypnotic trance induced by the solid four-to-the-floor march.
Closing the EP with a striking finale, "Teenage Apocalypse" introduces a clunky melody that encapsulates the signature sound of the record. Characteristic vocals weave throughout, guiding the listener towards the track's crescendo. Driven by a flawless fusion of drums, the song transitions seamlessly into a powerful breakbeat moment, accompanied by yet another impeccable bassline. True to its title, it evokes the intensity of a day of judgment, leaving a lasting impact as the EP draws to a close.
This EP is a testament to Wallis's growth as a producer and her fantastic storytelling ability through sound.
In the artist's words: "Sometimes life takes a weird turn. Angry, confused and dealing with moral: this EP targets the pain and absurdity of attachment and strongly themes Gregg Araki's teenage apocalypse trilogy. The artwork poem plastered on the wall was written by wallis."
Teranga Beat returns to its roots in West Africa and more precisely to Gambia, to present Galgi, the second album of Bai Janha’s groovy steamroller Karantamba on the label. The first album of Karantamba - Ndigal was a crucial one for the label as it was its third release, marking its identity: exploring cultural hybrids where traditional music is still present, in that specific region of West Africa in the beginning and later on to other parts of the continent and the Mediterranean.
Galgi was recorded 4 years after Ndigal in 1988 in Studio Wings in Dakar on reel tapes. An Afro-Mading jewel that remained unreleased until today and as an original ‘80s recording, guitars and synthesisers are thriving together with a killer groove throughout the entire album. The difference between Galgi and the previous recordings of Karantamba is not only the ’80s sound but also the female vocals of Ndey Nyang!
Galgi means “Slave ship” in Wolof, a track dedicated to the people who suffered during the Atlantic slave trade, and this is why the photo of the cover was shot in the emblematic House of Slaves in the Gorée island in Dakar. The song remains contemporary, as many people today take the risk of sailing through the maelstrom of the Atlantic Ocean towards unknown shores—a journey reminiscent of the historical immigration from the West Coast of Africa, where slave ships once set sail. This time though, it reflects an effort to escape the realities imposed on Africa by former colonisers since the continent gained independence.
This album was realised with the support of Eligo Audio Culture
“A New Chapter” by Clawz SG marks a profound evolution in the artist’s sonic journey, offering a blend of melodic techno that straddles the boundaries between deep house and ethereal techno. Known for his ability to craft immersive soundscapes, Clawz SG delves deep into the human experience with this album, exploring themes of hope, transformation, and introspection. Released on Steyoyoke, the album invites listeners to embark on an emotional voyage through richly textured melodies and poignant rhythms that resonate with the soul.
The album comprises eight meticulously crafted tracks, each weaving a tapestry of deep, melodic undertones that evoke both serenity and introspection. The opening track, “Updraft”, sets the tone with its uplifting yet contemplative energy, while “Echoes Of Hope”, the album’s lead single, stands out with its delicate balance of melancholy and optimism. Collaborating with violinist Félix Vanghem, Clawz SG delivers “Whispers Of The Past”, a track that seamlessly blends electronic and classical elements, creating a hauntingly beautiful soundscape. Throughout the album, Clawz SG showcases his signature ability to intertwine dreamlike melodies with driving techno beats, most notably in tracks like “A Glimpse Of Forever” and “Serendipity”.
“A New Chapter” is a carefully curated sonic journey that reflects Clawz SG’s growth as an artist and his deep connection to the emotive power of music. With each track, the listener is drawn deeper into a world of introspection and emotion, making this album a must-listen for fans of melodic techno and those seeking a deeply immersive musical experience.
London-based label Dancing With Strangers is back, after a brief hiatus, with the third edition being served up by none other than head honcho Oliver Moon.
On his third solo outing as an artist, Moon delivers two solid tracks in the shape of ‘Downstream' and ‘Drifting’. Both of which exercise his signature raw take on production and showcase an ability to carry a consistent groove whilst weaving deep, dreamy sounds into classy percussive work.
Dancing With Strangers Co-founder Agile Kind returns on remix duties to tackle ‘Downstream’ and does so wonderfully. Following the lead baseline, he layers lush pads around crisp skippy drum programming and lands on pure euphoria.
Last but certainly not least, the inimitable Carl Finlow (2020 Vision) rounds off the EP with a stellar electro remix of ‘Drifting’. Leading with a thick, growling bass and fusing cinematic synth work with playful acid stabs, Finlow captures the essence of the original. The end result is a beautifully emotive track entwined with stunning melodic elements destined for the dancefloor.
After more than ten years, four albums and countless shows, Swiss artist Joell Nicolas takes a turn and releases her last album as VRVN. Despite being an ending, Storia is also a place for beginnings. For the first time, VRVN brings together her semi-modular synth with an acoustic instrument, but not just any: a church organ. Filled with air like a dragon, it becomes both emancipating and dangerous, weaving its sounds with synthetic ones, together with voices and lyrics: in English and –also for the first time– in French.
Three years of musical research condensed in ten tracks, sometimes structured as songs, sometimes as sensitive soundscapes. Stemming from an exploration of textures over structure, Storia meanders through intimate topics, such as childhood, silence, risk, healing and transformation.
With the support of Ville de Lausanne and Canton de Vaud.
Open Space is proud to present our first ever full-length LP by LA’s newest 3-man band, Puli. Some words from our dear friend Matt McDermott below:
In recent years, a cadre of musicians from the east side of Los Angeles have reestablished the city of angels as the first city of Balearica. Alex Ho’s “Move Through It” followed in the lumbering footsteps of Project Sandro’s “Blazer.” Now, there’s a new landmark for the floating west coast sound. Swirling, the first album from LA supergroup Puli.
If you’ve got your ear to the ground you know the names involved here. Drummer and producer Damon Palermo’s pedigree stretches back a good 15 years or so, starting off with dub punks Mi Ami. Phil Cho is one of the busiest DJs, musicians and advocates for the deep stuff in LA, throwing legendary hillside parties under the Third Place banner. John Jones, the preternaturally talented guitarist and electronic tinkerer, records as AV Moves, is a key member of the Suzanne Kraft and Baba Stiltz live configurations and plays in The Trilogy Tapes-affiliated act Geo Rip.
But this listing of personnel and credentials puts too fine a point on it. Puli are three close friends who go to parties, DJ and get tacos together, repairing to their Chinatown studio a few times a week and coming out with remarkably textured, idiosyncratic downtempo jams. Building off the solid foundation of their 7-inch of heavyweight dubs for Melbourne’s Constant Delay, Swirling is an exploration of new horizons in chill out.
“Ramona” acts a statement of purpose—with halftime/double-time dub-tinged rhythms, hazy yet bright synth motifs and atmospheric guitar from Jones, not terribly far from the expansive approach of Japanese dub aesthetes Pecker. “Cloudy,” meanwhile, is a sort of deconstructed and bittersweet Balearic pop featuring Cho’s ethereal vocals. “Bongo Springs” is steppers’ house not far from close LA peer Benedek or the Mood Hut crew up north.
But what truly sets this record apart is the space and layers in the production—while it’s nominally an electronic record, Puli is a band that has slowly crafted these songs in the rehearsal space. “Havana Jam” cruises along a sliding roundwound bass guitar take with dubby chords and textural guitars. Palermo’s hand drums and live percussion enmesh perfectly with icy pads on “Leech Seed Dub.” Cho is back on the mic for the gorgeous closer, “C.S.B.”, underpinned by breakbeat and trunk-rattling sub bass. Puli doesn’t sound like anyone else, and is ultimately reflective of the city itself. Listening to Swirling feels like navigating a warren of side streets in the eternal sunshine. Take the drive and dive.
































































































































































