"HARD POP Vol.2” Vinyl limited edion is the album that contains 6 essential tracks to discover the essence of Hard Pop vol.2 and Deborah, connecng the electronic world with the pop and urban dimension, maintaining the unforge&able energec and sophiscated style of the DJ and producer Deborah De Luca. The album features surprising and unreleased featuring, exclusive remixes – from Geolier to Emma Marrone – and the smashing hit “Messege For My Ex” in the “edit” version. Limited and numbered edion of only 200 units and soon 300 units of the deluxe edion on
vinyl.
Something special happens when acts like 2fox and vocalists like Laville team up. In 2024 theybrought us one of the year’s most exciting soulful house releases called 'Elevation'. The trackhit #2 on Traxsource’s Best of ADE 2024 and it was consistentlyin the top 10 of soulful housecharts across DJ retail sites. This catchy vocal floating on top of a modern Motown inspiredbass line has had crowds singing along night after night. On this vinyl and digital package,legends Louie Vega and Tommy Musto take their remix turns on 'Elevation' along with labelbosses Soul Clap plus an exclusive percapella from 2Fox.
Louie Vega’s remix turns up the tempo and swings with a heavy bass piano line, knocking percussions, sweeping synth pads. Laville and background vocalists Nandi and Beth Aggetthave plenty of space to soar and give this remix a gospel tinge. It’s a nine plus minute ceremonyof sound that will still leave you wanting more and more!
Tommy Musto’s Zero Hour Mix dials in the soulful sounds of the track, bringing the organforward for a jazzy take for those who want to feel cosmic vibrations.
Soul Clap’s remix is future forward and Detroit inspired. As it evolves over 8 plus minutes, astrong melodic build up and eventual release will leave every listener feeling elevated!
These remixes along with original extended mix are available digitally and also packaged on 12-inch vinyl with artwork designed by Noah Prebish of Unknown Pleathers. Stay tuned for a dubs 12-inch release just a few weeks from now with unique versions of these remixes
In 1998 the release of Final Fantasy left an incredible mark on the electronic music scene. As a DJ I vividly recall the euphoria it sparked on dancefloors with its complex yet catchy Trance melodies - igniting a frenzy of hands-in-the-air moments. Fast forward to today and I've had the incredible opportunity to reimagine this timeless classic. My version pays homage to the original while infusing it with my Techno signature style, resulting in a track that's been met with overwhelming acclaim. (Thomas Schumacher)
Emerging from the suburbs of North London in the early 1990s, Hulusi was an experimental electronic music collective formed by four friends of multi-ethnic origin: Cypriot, Caribbean, Indian and English heritage. Cultivating their musical practice within very specific parameters of time and space, Hulusi instills the essence and spirit of the acid house movement (and its aftermath) that had taken much of England by storm from 1988 onwards. The ‘Dream’ EP was the collective's first release of their self-funded and limited output, offering up a categorically elusive record that could soundtrack the most esoteric and life affirming club moments, whilst simultaneously satisfying the ears and obscure desires of those found dwelling in the heavily occupied ‘chill out’ rooms and nocturnal after parties. As the emerging UK rave scene aligned with newfound accessibility of music production, the late 80s and early 90s became a fertile ground for experimental electronic music, spawning a generation of bedroom and basement producers interacting with and creating music for often the very first time. Like many, Hulusi was a musical project that connected the dots between DIY spirit, technological advancements and the burgeoning cultural phenomenon of acid house. The project operated outside of the then perceived, traditional band conventions, instead developing their sound and exchanging ideas through the format of demo tapes and floppy disks, nurturing their work through individual bedroom studios and feedback sessions. Considered a crucial and possibly defining element of the record, is Hulusi’s unconscious exploration of the groups hybrid cultural identity. Rooted in a shared desire for self-invention, the Dream EPreflects Hulusi's response to a world of rapid musical and technological change. Each track on the record draws inspiration from both Western and Eastern musical frameworks, symbolized through the record’s structure. The ‘Western Side’, featuring "Dream," echoes the ambient techno and acid house influences of early rave culture and bands like 808 State and Orbital. In contrast, the ‘Eastern Side’ of the record is highly decorated with samples, yet stripped back, through its purposeful use of organic sounds, reflecting the group's fascination with blending Western modernism with imagined Eastern themes. Despite operating in near obscurity, Hulusi - The Dream EP acts as an audible catalyst to transport the listener to a different time and place, offering a lucid snapshot into the musical and cultural explorations of the past whilst simultaneously remaining a timeless piece of music.
We are honoured to reissue Let’s Dance Tonight by David Gray. This record holds a status as a very sought after piece of Italo-Disco history and it’s no wonder - with a strong, unabashed pop sensibility and powerful vocal delivery from David Gray, it is dripping in catchiness and drama. This is expertly balanced by the record's production style, with a layered menacing synths and bizarre rhythmic breakdowns driving the track forward. This is allowed to take centre stage on the Instrumental version and then pushed to it’s logical conclusion with the Bonus Dubeats version by Castro that allows the dormant nature of the music’s strangeness to mutate into a driving, haunted dancefloor melter.
After over a year of being a floor-filling staple in their live set, we are pleased to release Say She She's stunningly bright and bold cover of the Jackson Sister's classic 'I Believe In Miracles.' Oozing with fresh and funky production from Orgone's legendary Sergio Rios, it's an utterly irresistible tune that will get you giddy with movement! The B-side, 'C'est Si Bon', is the group's French discodelia anthem -- encouraging listeners to throw their hands up and concede to joy. This catchy bilingual track is one of many hits off of their critically acclaimed sophomore LP 'Silver,' which was released to rave reviews last fall. This 45 is essentially a double A, and a collector and DJ must! Two tracks that will undoubtably get the crowd going, what more could you need?
Whether Re-defining Experimental Fusion Sounds With The Hugley Acclaimed Yussef Kamaal, Or His Catalogue Of 12's For Imprints Such As Mcde, Eglo, And Rhythm Section As Henry Wu, South London's Kamaal Williams Has Been A Key Figure In His Thriving International Scene For The Past Few Years. The Return Is A Natural Evolution From The Yussef Kamaal Project, Mining The Influence Of Visionary Jazz But Blended With All Kinds Of Texture, Sounds And Signals From The Over-saturated London Streets.
At Times The Keyboard Work Evokes The Classic 70s Fusion Work Of Lonnie Liston Smith Or Roy Ayers, But Underpinned By Rhythms More Reminiscent Of Blunted Hip-hop And Arrangements Subliminally Laced With The Cut-ups Of Pirate Radio. Progressive, Funky, Cosmic, Exploratory And Effortlessly Musical, This Is The Sound Of A Musician Honing Their Craft Into Thrilling New Shapes.
In The Us The Like Of Kamasi Washington And Thundercat Have Made Great Strides In Opening A Whole New Dialogue Between Jazz And Hip-hop, Drawing In A Young, Highly Engaged New Audience In The Process. Kamaal Williams Mine A Similar Seam On The Other Side Of The Atlantic Alongside Other Exciting London Talents Such As Ezra Collective, Ruby Rushton And Shabaka Hutchings.
The Return Is Exactly That: A Return And Refinement To The Sound Yussef Kamaal Were Progenitors Of, And First Set The Scene For One Of The Most Exciting Musical Movements London Has Had In Years.
Notable Tracks For Old And New Listeners Are 'slow', 'situations', 'medina', 'london Shuffle' Which Features Mansur Brown (of Mansur's Message) And For Those Die Hard Yussef Kamaal Fans - They Should Hear The Interpolated Roots Of 'strings Of Light' In The Title Track 'the Return'. And That Signature Wu Funk Can Be Heard On Broken Theme, And High Roller.
The Return Will Be The Debut Album Released On Wu's New Label Black Focus Records.
A collection of ten hypnotic guitar renditions that dive deeply into the traditional compositional musicality that underpins Harakami’s hallucinatory beatscapes before reconsidering them under a fresh, innovative and engaging new light. River: The Timbre of Guitar #2 Rei Harakami signals a new level of awareness and understanding of both Rei Harakami’s significance and Ayane Shino’s undeniable talent.
VITAL SALES POINTS:
In 1996 Tokyo-based label Sublime Records received a cassette demo from Rei Harakami, a 26-year-old Japanese experimental filmmaker, and musician. Within one year Harakami’s debut LP ‘Unrest’ was released. As the 21st century dawned, Harakami was becoming a critically acclaimed figure, and there was a feeling in Japan that Harakami would be an inevitable successor to such luminaries as Haruomi Hosono and Ryuichi Sakamoto. Sadly Harakami passed away at age 40 in 2011, leaving behind a musical legacy that seemed to deserve more recognition. A fitting tribute now comes from the incredibly gifted classical guitarist Ayane Shino. Continuing her album series ‘The Timbre of Guitar’ (the inaugural release of which was ‘Sakura’ - a cover album of Susumu Yokota's seminal album, released through the Swiss label, Mental Groove Records in 2021), she now presents ‘River ???? : The Timbre of Guitar #2 Rei Harakami’. Ayane has reworked some of Harakami’s standout tracks into an album of tranquil yet complex compositions helping to build a new level of awareness and understanding of Rei Harakami’s significance. A collection of ten hypnotic guitar renditions that dive deeply into the traditional compositional musicality that underpins Harakami’s hallucinatory beatscapes before reconsidering them under a fresh, innovative and engaging new light.
In the years that followed Harakami’s untimely passing, Sublime Records continued to sign and support new artists emerging from Japan’s rich and fertile electronic music scene. This eventually led to a meeting with gifted classical guitarist Ayane Shino in 2020. Although a new name within electronica, Shino’s classical resume is impeccable. She has performed with a range of prestigious orchestras in concert halls and at music festivals across Japan, Europe, and South America while playing classical guitar for numerous animations, movies and television commercials and holding various educational roles. These days, she also hosts the Tokyo Harmonics radio show, which is syndicated through Hyogo prefecture’s Ashiya Radio and TJS Radio in Los Angeles.
During her time completing a masters at Tokyo’s University of the Arts, Shino became fascinated by Brian Eno, Aphex Twin, Oneohtrix Point Never, Steve Reich, and, closer to home, Harakami and Susumu Yokota. ”I found myself in an environment where I was surrounded by fellow students who produced computer music, live electronics, and installations,” she explains. Following her meeting with Sublime, Hideoki Amano, the producer and owner of Musicmine, the parent company of the label, asked Shino if she would be open to transcribing and recording an album of covers of the late, great composer, producer and DJ Susumu Yokota’s music in incorporate into then-upcoming events commemorating the 5th anniversary of his death and reissues of his past works. “Yokota made music with the Roland TB-303 bass synthesizer and samplers, not in a way like a conventional instrumentalist, so I was aware it might be more of a challenge for her,” Amano explains. Fittingly, Shino was up for his suggestion, leading to ‘Sakura: The Timbre Of Guitars #1 Susumu Yokota’. Song by song, Sakura highlighted Shino’s free-flowing playing and prowess at translating electronic music into classical guitar shapes.
After considering Harakami’s background as an instrumentalist, Amano felt revisiting his catalogue should be the next step for Shino. Well-versed in how often classical versions of electronic music tend to fall flat, he asked her to examine Harakami’s songs closely, select the musical phrases suitable for guitar and create arrangements that would sound interesting to music listeners with a deep engagement with ambient, techno and electronica. In Harakami’s discography, Shino discovered “a sense of simplicity, warmth, moisture and a floating sensation.” “I was gripped by his songs, which had an array of sounds that gave me a sense of mystery but also coexisted with a sense of familiarity,” she explained. Moving beyond his official releases, Shino began digging through YouTube to find live recordings, radio appearances and obscure outtakes. Within her mind’s eye, imagining playing his songs on guitar was effortless. On her approach to the album, Ayane explains: “For this album, I succeeded in spinning some exquisite, silk thread like delicate tones, interwoven with human warmth, gentleness and simplicity. And I was also able to rework Rei Harakami's distinctive sound with a floating feel to it and transform it into a very classical guitar sound. I hope many people will be able to receive this group of sounds that I created in this album that I played with all my heart.” A record of limitless innate beauty, ‘River ???? : The Timbre of Guitar #2 Rei Harakami’ is a delicate and thoughtful body of work. A true masterclass in deconstruction and subsequent rebuilding, and an eternal lesson in how the art that we leave behind can outlive us all.
Appart … long time ne see on vinyl... And again a superb album, trippy and thin... very rich of many influences and ambiances... From Klez to jazz... Breakbeat Fanfare for everyone ! This is a real high level musician from the underground since years ! Don't miss !!
Unusual Systems' tenth release with various artists. Side A dedicated to the true old school sound with the track "Stay To me" by the Italian duo Two Opposites and "Sin Kontrol", an unreleased track by its founder. Side B from two Catalan producers Torrent and Adria with a couple of modern new wave tracks.
The late great Cosmic AC's vast catalogue again yields some posthumous treasure with part two of the For Now album. It's another record that is as sophisticated as it is adventures with plenty of painstakingly crafted but effortless smooth breakbeats on 'Larvy' topped with pensive synths. Elsewhere there are logic-defying rhythm structures on 'Snood', hooky synth shimmers and more raw textures on 'Wisconsin Desert' and jazzy, cosmic motifs on the wonderful 'Setting Sun'. This is a high-class mini-album full of next-level sound designs and turbo-brain drum patterns. It makes for a compelling listen wherever you may be.
South Londons’ indomitable Medlar delivers an ambitious new album
The long-time underground favourite has collaborated with the likes of Dele Sosimi, Rebekah Reid, Deevoenay, Finn Peters, Sam Virdie, Afla Sackey and Arnau Obiols on an album that finds him taking his production to new levels.
From roots playing illegal raves in the South West to building up a cultured catalogue that bounces between house and garage, Medlar has long been part of the underground conversation. He has dropped a previous album and many innovative remixes and edits for the likes of Billy Cobham and Shirley Lites, worked in the studio and on stage with Afro legend Dele Sosimi and most recently released an album under his own name that collected myriad different sonic sketches from the past 15 years.
Islands is an altogether different proposition that comes after establishing himself as a mix engineer and producer of other people's music. In that time, Medlar has honed his skills, learnt new tricks and grown more able to express himself in sound. The result is an album that explores a more electronic palette inspired by '80s fusion sounds whilst maintaining a loose, organic flow through his use of live instrumentation. “The idea for the LP was for a collection of music which could sit alone as club tracks, but would work equally well as part of a whole. The name Islands came from this, as there's some connecting ideas but the tracks sit independently in their own little sonic worlds. I took a lot of inspiration from early 80’s electronic music produced during early years of MIDI technology… proto house, jazz fusion, electronic disco and experimental ambient. I wanted to juxtapose some of these methods with more contemporary production and make something that's ultimately quite fun!” says Medlar of the record which could easily soundtrack a summer road trip.
Across 11 tracks, he blends old-school techniques like a fusion of live instruments, FM synthesis and MIDI triggered vocal samples with more contemporary touches such as punchy, club-friendly drums and dub inspired, speaker-wobbling low end. The result is less reliant on samples than his previous works and makes for a perfect blend of retro authenticity and future freshness.
No words are needed for tracks and collaborations this bold, but we still decided to give it a short introduction.
Hips don’t lie on the title track “Make A Scene”, which comes with two massive remixes. Dirty Dutch legend Chuckie teams up with Finnish talent Skuwa to deliver some real old-school bubbling beats. Man of the moment, DJ Babatr, completes the A-side with his Raptor House remix—a heavy, drum-driven build-up that erupts into a volcanic dancefloor moment.
Koperblond collaborates with hot new producers AUTOFLOWER and Beau de Wit on “Feel You”, a piano house track with a catchy vocal. It’s all fun—perfect for getting every crowd on their feet.
Closing duties for “Plan B.”, a deeper house groove that captures the bittersweet loneliness of being without your love. Even when everyone assures you it will come, the emptiness can still feel real— and this track captures that emotion perfectly.
The British jazz/hip hop fusion collective Us3 founded in 1992 in London and its notable members included producers Mel Simpson and Geoff Wilkinson. The group scored a major hit in 1994 with “Cantaloop (Flip Fantasia)”, a track that displayed the group’s fondness for sampling classic recordings from the Blue Note label (in this case, Herbie Hancock’s “Cantaloupe Island’). The track was included on their debut album Hand On The Torch.
The album was a result of their connections with Blue Note owner Capitol Records, which gave Simpson and Wilkinson free rein to sample anything from the Blue Note catalog. Together with several musicians and rappers Kobie Powell and Rahsaan Kelly, they sampled a series of Blue Note classics, from Art Blakey and Thelonious Monk, to Horace Sylver and the previously mentioned Herbie Hancock. With the release of Hand On The Torch, Us3 had forged one of the most elaborate union between styles and became one of the best-selling jazz albums on the Blue Note label.
One of the most iconic labels in house music made a major return in 2024. King Street Sounds is celebrating its legacy with a series of re-releases that dive into its extensive back catalogue, showcasing some of its biggest releases. One of these being Dennis Ferrer’s iconic debut solo album The World As I See It from 2006. A body of work that sounds as good today as it did 19 years ago and, in that time, has gone on to become one of the greatest house music albums of the last 25 years. This release will be the first time all ten tracks from the album have been included in one vinyl package, and will include a frameable, double sided record sleeve sized poster. With copies of previous editions of the album costing close to £100 on the second-hand market, this limited sky blue vinyl edition will give a new generation of house & electronic music fans an opportunity to own this piece of dance music history.
"Petrol", one of Manu Kenton's most iconic tracks, makes its highly anticipated return in a limited edition that will appeal to both collectors and techno enthusiasts. This special version features not only the original track, but also exclusive remixes that reinterpret the piece from different angles, offering a diverse and exciting sonic palette.
Manu Kenton, staying true to his creative genius, revisits his own track by adding an energetic and catchy vocal, bringing a fresh new dynamic to the already electrifying atmosphere of the original.
The Gregor Size remix is a true powerhouse: dynamic, industrial, and powerful, it transforms "Petrol" into a heavy, punchy piece, with dark textures and irresistible rhythms that leave a lasting impression.
Greg Denbosa, on the other hand, delivers a progressive techno remix, with a dynamic and repetitive beat that builds tension, creating a hypnotic experience perfectly suited for the dancefloor.
Finally, Bestien offers a nervous, straight, and punchy version, ideal for the peak moments of a night. His explosive remix ramps up the intensity on the dancefloors, with raw energy and power that demands attention.
Visually, this vinyl stands out with its "Yolk" effect, a unique blend of white and white with luminous accents, creating a striking and modern design that will enhance any collection.
Français
"Petrol", l'un des morceaux les plus emblématiques de Manu Kenton, fait son grand retour dans une édition limitée qui séduira aussi bien les collectionneurs que les passionnés de techno. Cette version spéciale inclut non seulement la version originale du titre, mais aussi des remixes inédits qui réinterprètent le morceau sous des angles différents, offrant ainsi une palette sonore variée et excitante.
Manu Kenton, fidèle à son génie créatif, revisite son propre morceau en y ajoutant un vocal énergique et entraînant, donnant une nouvelle dynamique à l'atmosphère déjà électrisante de l'original.
Le remix de Gregor Size est un véritable tour de force : très dynamique, industriel et puissant, il transforme "Petrol" en une œuvre lourde et percutante, avec des textures sombres et des rythmes irrésistibles qui marquent les esprits.
Greg Denbosa, quant à lui, propose un remix techno progressif, avec un beat dynamique et répétitif qui crée une tension croissante, offrant une expérience hypnotique et parfaitement calibrée pour les sets dansants.
Enfin, Bestien livre une version nerveuse, droite et percutante, idéale pour les moments intenses d'une soirée. Son remix explosif fait monter l’intensité sur les dancefloors, avec une énergie brute et une puissance qui ne laisse personne indifférent.
Visuellement, ce vinyle se distingue par un effet "Yolk", un mélange unique de blanc et de rouge lumineux, créant un visuel frappant et moderne qui enrichira toute collection.
Nanel 008 marks another solid release for the label, packed with two stunning tracks that will speak to both DJs and listeners alike. On the A-side, "Farfor" offers an infectious blend of groovy basslines and punchy breakbeats, creating a track that’s both energetic and deep. The smooth, atmospheric pads intertwine seamlessly with a catchy piano melody, giving the track an uplifting vibe that’s perfect for those dancefloor moments when the energy needs to rise. It’s a perfect combination of classic and contemporary elements, with a sound that feels both fresh and timeless.
Flipping the record over, "Ready" takes things in a more dubby direction, featuring a deep bassline that rolls smoothly beneath crisp percussion and atmospheric elements. The track’s vocal shots add an extra layer of texture, cutting through the mix and pulling you into its hypnotic groove. The percussion is tight and purposeful, adding a rhythmic complexity that draws you in and keeps you moving. With its dub influence and a steady, captivating groove, "Ready" creates an immersive listening experience that showcases a different side of your production style. Together, these two tracks offer a diverse yet cohesive sound that exemplifies the signature style of Nanel.
More than a year after its last compilation, Amsterdam’s Locked-in returns with a glistening selection of club-ready tracks further anchoring the label’s progressive groove while opening avenues to different sounds and scenes.
Blending minimal techno and ambient aesthetics, Hamburg’s Rupert Marnie opens up the A-side with “Half-Baked Spel”, a mysterious yet dancefloor-ready cut elegantly setting the tone. Norwegian house and techno DJ and producer A:G (Asgeir Giskegjerde) follows up with an escape into trance influenced sounds, delivering a playful, ambitious and infectious bopper. On the flip-side, Barcelona-based Aniano takes things one notch deeper offering a dimmed light minimal groover. With its moody atmosphere and catchy samples, the track gracefully hints at Perlon's catalogue. To close the journey, Frog Dog Records crew member Slacks from Philadelphia takes the listener apart with a very subtle emotional break composition, crafting an intricate and moving piece of music reminiscing of good times.
With four tracks stemming from different parts of the world, Locked-In once again showcases the quality of its curation and the consistency of its sound and vision. This release is dimmed to resonate on both dark and sun-drenched dancefloors.
Every label’s first release sets a tone. With "Pegasi EP", Saraw establishes itself with a focus on sonic precision and ethereal atmospheres, exploring the intersection of house, techno, and minimalism. Founded by Root, the label debuts with Apolinic, a project that approaches these genres with a sharp, cinematic aesthetic. "Pegasi EP" emphasizes rhythm, space, and texture, with remixes by label owner Root and seasoned producer Tommy Vicari Jnr.
'Alt Nod De Cravata' (A1) builds around crisp percussion and evolving walls of sound, creating a subtle yet persistent momentum perfect for special peak-time moments. 'Root’s remix' (A2) deepens the original’s swing, heightening its hypnotic effect through morphing basslines, shuffling hi-hats, whispered vocal fragments, and emotive pads. 'Sense Of' (B1) plays like a sequel to A1, delving further into its subdued yet cinematic power, infused with oriental-tinged atmospheres. 'Tommy Vicari Jnr’s Remix' (B2) reshapes the original with a refined, pumping house structure, threading acidic undertones through the same atmospheric palette.
Saraw is centered on refined electronic music—focused, understated, and designed for both dancefloor action and deep listening, and "Pegasi EP" marks the beginning of a carefully curated catalog.
You’ve enjoyed it digitally for the past few months, now it’s time to get your hands on the real thing.
Masšh & Adam Port feat. Ninae - All I Got is finally here on a fresh vinyl pressing. The cathartic emotionality of the track sees Adam Port returning to his sonic roots, collaborating with Masšh to imbue it with authentic South African soul. Out on Madorasindahouse Records
The iconic DJ Sotofett comes with a real treat--a 12-track album on Clone West Coast Series that showcases a playful take on electronic music. Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of DJ Sotofett & The Colours of Computer Generated Instruments. With 12 electrifying electro tracks that blend a wide spectrum of rhythms with 80's Nintendo console vibes and holy grail analog vs digital synthesis, this album is a jubilant celebration of that sound. Prepare for an exhilarating journey filled with surprises, seamlessly transitioning from acid infected vibes and catchy electronic pop to groundbreaking avant-garde electro cuts. Each track intricately weaves together influences from over 40 years of electronic dance music, inviting listeners to explore the rich tapestry of genres that have shaped the landscape. As you delve deeper, you'll uncover the intricate layers and innovative production techniques that define Sotofett's distinctive style, transforming this album into more than just a collection of tracks -- it's a true sonic adventure that beckons you to listen, dance and dream.
This is long time overdue. Hugo Danin is one of Porto’s most recognizable drummers with a huge importance in the local scene. Wether it is because of the many projects he lends his skills to or the work he has developed with the Porto Drum Show this record has been on our calendar almost ever since we started this journey as Jazzego. At the time Hugo was drumming for the Minus & MRDolly live show and we had this idea of re-releasing his record from (at the time) 10 years ago as kick starting point for new path of his as drummer within the jazz scene. This kind of makes this record an one off in our catalogue as re-issues and re-releases are not really our thing and we are always on the lookout for something new. However we felt from the get go that this would be a good fit in our roadmap and decided to do this straight away and in order to bring some of this “new flavor” that is so dear to us we decided to bring Azar Azar and Divorce From New York with Piek on board to remix two of the tracks and make them available on this Gatefold Vinyl edition.
Side A’s “Intergalactic Love Song” by the Diddys & featuring Paige Douglas is a vocal version of the Charles Earland's instrumental classic (who also produced the track) & is a disco-tinge jazz-funk groover that you will want in your bag. It glides across the dancefllor with a breezy ease & pulls you in.
B. side
On the flip, we have“Searching The Circle” by Barbara & Ernie from the classic psyche-folk soul album “Prelude To …” (Ctollion - SD 9044), produced by Joel Thorn. It’s a wonderfully weird little record that has a sound that's unlike anything else I can think of.
This trippy early-70s folk-jazz-soul nugget featured here from guitarist Ernie Calabria & singer/keyboardist Barbara Massey (back-up for Cat Stevens, amongst others). Arrangements are by the pair, but Deodato also had a hand in the record too along w/ Grady Tate on drums, Ralph McDonald on percussion, & Sam Brown on guitar.
It holds a righteous groove undercurrent that recalls Richard Evans or Charles Stepney. Massey’s vocals have a flanged-out quality that's clearly overdubbed, creating a double-voiced sound that's almost a bit like Brasil 66! Completely
The fifth album from H. Hawkline (Huw Evans), ‘Milk For
Flowers’, is released via Heavenly Recordings.
Following the 2017 album, ‘I Romanticize’, and 2015’s ‘In
The Pink of Condition’, the album was produced and
features musical contributions from long-time collaborator
and celebrated solo artist Cate Le Bon. Artwork is
designed by H. Hawkline.
Recorded at Rockfield Studios in Monmouthshire, the
album features a host of musical collaborators - Davey
Newington (Boy Azooga) on drums, Paul Jones (Group
Listening) on piano, Tim Presley (White Fence, DRINKS,
The Fall) on guitar, Stephen Black (Sweet Baboo) and
Euan Hinshelwood (Younghusband, Cate Le Bon) on sax,
Harry Bohay (Aldous Harding) on pedal steel and John
Parish (PJ Harvey, Aldous Harding) on infrequent bongo.
The record was then engineered by Joe Jones (Aldous
Harding, Parquet Courts) and mixed, after an unlikely and
fortuitous crossing of paths, by the Grammy-nominated
Patrik Berger (Charli XCX, Robyn, Lana Del Rey), and
mastered by Heba Kadry (Deerhunter, Cass McCombs,
Cate Le Bon).
‘Milk For Flowers’ is at once visceral and enlightened, its
soundscapes verdant yet delicately rendered, and with this
latest, most intimate work, H. Hawkline bares his blood,
bones and soul beautifully. And quietly, along with the
entrails and rubble held in ‘Milk For Flowers’’ reliquary,
there hides a small, green kernel of life; hope, perhaps,
that today’s decay might nourish tomorrow’s blooms.
Available on CD and LP with rigid ‘tip-on’ sleeve with antiscratch matt lamination and digital download code.
Celebrating 40th anniversary of Yves Deruyter's musical career with this 10 x 12" Vinyl Box Set. Including tracks from F.U.S.E. vs LFO, Tronikhouse, Robert Armani, L.S.G., Edge Of Motion, Plastikman, The Prodigy, Ecstasy Club, and the master himselfYves Deruyter.
Yves Deruyter - 40 Years at the Pinnacle of the Night
Forty years. A rollercoaster of a musical career, meandering through five decades, leaving timeless marks on the collective dancefloor memory. Yves Deruyter is the exception that proves the rule. An icon behind the decks, celebrated far beyond national borders for his legendary sets, impeccable musical choices, and the anthems released under his name. The result of collective effort, where Yves, with his vision and unique touch, consistently left his mark-transforming good tracks into inescapable bombs that still resonate through time.
If you've spent forty years living to the pulse of music, the night is in your DNA. Yves Deruyter, a DJ to the core-the real deal. The man who bent the night to his will, dragging weekend vibes into the workweek like a warrior, a true master behind the turntables who made his people dance. His beats: the oxygen that generations lived on.
Yves sharpened his musical weapons in the early '90s within the iconic afterparty scene of Barocci and The Globe-places that became sanctuaries in Belgium's endless night. Here, die-hard dancefloor warriors, cutting-edge music lovers, and night owls from the four corners of the globe gathered. They willingly followed Yves' masterful mixing and his razor-sharp set construction. Clubs with a more conventional timeframe were the next step, with the iconic Cherrymoon as his home base for years-alongside endless guest DJ spots and global gigs. From there, the underground pulsed through Yves' hands and crates, reaching ever-larger crowds-without ever compromising for commercial or crossover sounds. Yves stayed true to his choices, lifting his audience to euphoric heights like a craftsman, armed with his hits, hidden gems, and freshly unearthed nuggets.
From the pounding energy of Rave City to the flippy, epic flashes of Calling Earth-tracks that not only captured the spirit of the times but conquered dancefloors worldwide. This isn't just music; it's a time capsule-a connection between generations and a reminder of the energy from a golden era.
With musical partners like Roel Butzen, Frederico Santini, M.I.K.E. Push, and more recently, Insider, Yves forged a sound that etched its place into rave and dance history. From The Rebel to The House of House, parts of Yves' musical taste have become immortal pillars of dance music heritage. In the early rave days, he topped Belgium's DJ rankings year after year, elevating every club he played to the highest echelons of popularity. The same held true for the records where his name appeared like a badge of honor.
From The Globe to the globe itself-it seemed almost written in the stars. Yves, thestar DJ, became one of the instigators of the electronic music storm that put Belgium on the global map-a storm that never subsided. Festivals like Love Parade, Mayday, I Love Techno, Nature One, and Tomorrowland saw Yves as a trusted force, effortlessly commanding crowds and turning dancefloors inside out. Forty years later, that storm still ignites partygoers, vibrates through dancefloors, and keeps entire generations moving.
Even today, Yves still holds a steady residency with Yves Deruyter and Friends at Club Moustache, where his concept always sells out. Here, both fresh talent and seasoned DJs deliver a killer blend of modern electronic dance music and timeless classics, creating an atmosphere that hooks the crowd every single time.
Because partying doesn't need an excuse. But forty years? That deserves the spotlight-not as a mere milestone, but as a showcase of timelessness. Music mutates, reinvents itself for new generations, yet retains the same impact as that very first time. Yves proves that forty is just a number, and relevance isn't about trends-it's about vision, energy, and an unmistakable touch. His sets? Indestructible. His sound? A heartbeat echoing through time.
And Yves? He doesn't live in the past. Today, Yves distills those four decades into a compilation capturing the essence of his career. Belgian beats, interpreted and refined into a sound that powered raves around the world. Ten vinyls featuring not just a fiercely curated selection that contextualizes the magic of his early days, but also new versions of three unbeatable anthems-potent hits designed to turn dancefloors upside down in wonder, without losing a shred of their soul. Yves remains a beacon in the night, a searchlight for that one perfect beat-always relevant, always chasing that magical moment.
Yves Deruyter-a name spoken in the same breath as the greats of the scene. A ten-vinyl compilation is more than a celebration; it's a well-earned trophy. As unique, indestructible, and uncompromising as the man himself.
Crush of Souls is the musical endeavour of Charles Rowell (Crocodiles, Flowers of Evil, Issue). One foot in early Industrial and the other in 80’s Synth-Pop, Crush Of Souls hold the whip and demand that you submit your soul.
Returning once again to Catacomb Soul studios where he had recently finished recording “(A)Void Love”, Charles Rowell mapped out the next chapter for Crush of Souls, limitations were set in place while new faces appeared to lend a fresh coat of black magic to the album.
The album is a love letter to Paris; all of its beauty and decay. “Lézire” which is a slang mixture of the French words for Lizard and Desire provides a sinister title to an album full of hard hitting, romantic songs.
Harry Howard (These Immortal Souls) provides his signature snarl and profound lyrics to the haunting ballad “You Rose Up”. Long time sax player Stanislas de Miscault colors the dark corners of the record with his unhinged personality and one half of new look COS, Stevan Dinet bangs both the martial beats and the Fairlight sample pads.
An album cover full of chains and S&M can provide enough of an explanation as to the new direction of Crush of Souls. Cronenberg’s “Crash”, David Lynch’s “Lost Highway”, Psychic TV and Sisters Of Mercy are constantly mentioned.
In October 1987, four months after the release of their critically acclaimed Sister LP, Sonic Youth showcased their latest work in a blistering set at Cabaret Metro, Chicago. The concert was introduced by Big Black's Steve Albini (who at the time was banned from the venue) and subsequently released as a semi-official bootleg under the title Hold That Tiger on writer/provocateur Byron Coley's impishly Geffen-baiting label Goofin' (years later the band would use this nom de guerre for their own imprint).
Hold That Tiger's sterling reputation among the Sonic Youth faithful is well deserved. In fact, it isn't a stretch to suggest that the album is to the first handful of SY releases what It's Alive is to the first three Ramones LPs – a feral and liberatory public snapshot of a band's blossoming imperial phase. Indeed, HTT is the sound of a group at the peak of their powers, presenting new songs alongside a handful of older ones with the kind of wild, cathartic enthusiasm common to rock 'n' roll's most revered live albums.
Taking nothing away from Sister – inarguably one of indie rock's first true masterpieces – it is reasonable that many fans prefer the live versions heard on Hold That Tiger to their studio counterparts. On HTT, Sonic Youth is a spiky, pummeling and confident force, alternately mammoth and meditative. Sister and its predecessor EVOL notably added an airy, dreamlike reverie to the band's turbulent doom-lurch, a stylistic evolution that seems to crystallize on HTT. Throughout, Kim Gordon's sinewy, sumptuous bass and Steve Shelley's propulsive, tom-heavy percussion provide the bedrock groove for Thurston Moore and Lee Ranaldo's ferocious barrages of noise-guitar crunch.
By 1987, the band was confidently articulating their dual lexicon of punk-noir dissonance and supernal, psychedelic sonic calligraphy – bending their jagged, streetwise gnarl into balloon animals of dazzling and beautiful songs. This collision of splendor and chaos would become a hallmark of the group's singular alchemy as well as provide a blueprint for the post-SST American underground they would help invent and ultimately nurture.
Hold That Tiger's encore – four songs by the band's beloved Ramones, which Thurston would later astutely compare to "the perfect pudding after a hearty meal" – serves as a reminder that, like any true punks, Sonic Youth never could resist a good, rousing anthem to send the kids home with their ears ringing, their hearts hot-wired.
This first-time reissue with speed-corrected master comes in a gatefold tip-on jacket. Mastered by Bob Weston from the original tapes. Recorded by Aadam Jacobs. Audio repair/editing by Aaron Mullan.
Back in stock due to popular demand, the 41st release in our signature Brazil 45’s series. Turning the spotlight to two monster funk/bossa nova cuts from Rosa Maria, we reissued a double header of firm favourites here at Mr Bongo HQ. Originally released on 7” in 1972 via Tapecar, copies of the OG are extremely difficult to get your hands on.
The A side houses ‘Deixa Nao Deixa’, with its distinct afro-Latin feel courtesy of the guitar, horns and percussion. Add in the catchy lead vocal, strong harmonies, funk/bossa drum grooves, shuffling percussion and the continuous build to the end, and you have one of the greatest Brazilian funk records ever pressed.
‘Avenida Atlantica’ takes the B side. Funk and bossa drum grooves alternate underneath the layers of vocals, horns, piano and percussion for a fiery, energetic dancefloor heater.
Next stop... Second reference in the PHASELAB catalog and twenty-third of our PHASE IMPRINT label! What a satisfaction to finally present this project (vinyl and digital) by Aizikovic, the yout from Madrid who is trying to bring an especially fresh, as well as profound, vision to our city. This EP transmits us; altered visions in music, many experiences linked to the dance floor and feelings of light in a dark space. And in case anyone wanted a little more, Comissar Lag aka Lag has prepared a melting remix for us.
Many thanks for the designs to the snowboarder of the strokes @judyisangry, to Mario Castillo for the Master and to Pedro O'Connor for the Mix.
‘Nothing Iz Sacred’ is a statement, a collection of tracks that resist the pull of the fleeting, throwaway nature of today’s music scene. In an age where everything is often stripped down, consumed, and discarded, this 8-track LP stands as both a nudge and a reminder—a poke at the culture that surrounds it - it isn’t here to blend quietly into the background, nor to satisfy the urge for quick hits and shallow thrills.
Each track on the LP is woven with the sounds and textures Workforce has become known for, yet there’s a rawness here—a willingness to push boundaries, to blur the edges of genre and style. The LP is a blend of the familiar and the experimental, where thoughtful moments meet jagged beats, and where soulful undertones collide with darker layers. It’s a space that resists easy categorization, daring listeners to explore without expectation, to find meaning in the spaces between the sounds. This isn’t a record designed for the disposable playlists of tomorrow; it’s for those who know that music can mean more, and who understand that it is meant to live with us, to grow, and to shape the communities around it. This record isn’t about the chase for the next hit or the endless scroll; it’s for the ones who value artistry, who find culture in the smallest details, who want something real to hold onto.
‘Nothing Iz Sacred’ is brought to life with the voices and musicality of some incredible collaborators. Tyler Daley’s unmistakable warmth, Bobbie Johnson’s sharp lyricism, Tamara Blessa’s haunting soul, Leroy Horns’ textured brass, and Ed Zuccollo’s nuanced piano work all carve their own paths through the record. Together, they amplify the album's heartbeat, adding layers of richness and depth.
At long last: the classic Steely Dan catalog is back on vinyl. Led by Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, Steely Dan released 7 albums from 1972-1980. The vinyl series continues with Aja, the band’s 1977’s platinum-selling jazz-rock masterwork, which includes the three hit singles –“Deacon Blues,” Peg” and “Josie” – and the elegant title cut. The LP has been remastered by Bernie Grundman from an analog, non-EQ’d, tape copy.
So many stellar albums by Fagen and Becker in the 70′s but this one is timeless. Amazing songs produced and performed to perfection by some of the best session musicians and singers in the business. An Absolute masterpiece from start to finish!
"For Toronto outsider pop auteur Saya Gray, music is a glittering mosaic of endless influences. Her debut album is akin to a sonic chimera; its limbs assembled from disparate, but complimentary musical organisms. Does she make pop? Folk? Rock? R&B? The moment you think you’ve got her pinned, she’s gone like a flash.
Gray’s often collage-like sonicspheres, blanketed with layers of riffs upon layers of electronic chatter, demonstrate the limitless potential of music as an art form.
Saya Gray has received support from Pitchfork, The Guardian, The Times, Colors, The New York Times, BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 6, NTS, Fader and has recently recorded an incredible Tiny Desk session to be release around her new album. "
Source of an all-time 'Breaks and Beats' classic, Mr Bongo reissue Herman Kelly’s timeless 1978 album Percussion Explosion!. Immortalised in hip-hop folklore, when the anthemic 'Dance To The Drummer's Beat’ was featured on the influential Ultimate Breaks & Beats compilation series in 1986.
Percussion Explosion! was the brainchild of drummer, percussionist, producer and arranger, Herman Kelly and his percussive disco-funk group from Miami, 'Life', that featured Aaron McCarthy, Oliver Well, John DeMonica, Michal Cordoza and Travis Biggs. The album houses a collection of disco, funk and Latin-inspired cuts that were destined for greatness. Nestled within the grooves is the B-Boy and B-Girl’s anthem, 'Dance To The Drummer's Beat’, which contains a now legendary break. A cursory glance at Whosampled will show that it has been sampled in over 125+ songs. These include Double Dee & Steinski on their groundbreaking 1985 production 'Lesson 3 (History Of Hip Hop Mix)', as well as by DJ Shadow, N.W.A, Masters At Work, Run D.M.C. and a whole host of heavyweights across hip-hop, dance and pop music.
When the album was released in 1978 it came out on two different labels, Alston Records and Electric Cat. Each label pressed different versions of 'Dance To The Drummer's Beat’, with the former featuring a 4:12 version and the latter a longer 5:09 version that has a different structure, crowd noise at the start and overdubbed percussion.
For this Mr Bongo reissue, we have chosen the classic 4:12 version from the Alston Records release, which would later find its way on to the illustrious Ultimate Breaks & Beats compilation. To make matters even more confusing the Alston version art on the back cover also states the track length as 5:09, whilst the centre label lists it correctly as 4:12.
Aside from the much celebrated 'Dance To The Drummer's Beat’, the album includes a range of other fantastic overlooked cuts. From the percussive soul stepper 'Share Your Love', to the beautiful Latin-flavoured 'A Refreshing Love' or the party disco-funk groover 'Who's The Funky D.J.?'.
This wonderful and inspirational record features an important piece of hip-hop heritage and deserves a place in every collection.
Love Raid is first in a series of cassette-only mixtapes with the cult WFMU show and blog Bodega Pop collecting assorted digs from across New York's bodegas and cell-phone stores. This first edition is focused on leftfield, novelty, and protest 45s from across the Arabic world recorded between 1960 & 1974.
"A series of random discoveries in the mid-1990s led me to abandon American and British pop and focus on non-English-language music, predominantly Arabic, for the next two decades.
Feeding my ears required biking down to Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, or hopping on the subway to Steinway Street in Queens, where I would pop into a handful of the local bodegas and immigrant-run cell-phone stores, some of which offered music from North Africa and the Middle East on cassettes and compact discs.
When CDs spiralled into obsolescence in the mid-2010s, I reluctantly made the switch to vinyl, concentrating on 45s and intentionally filling holes not well represented in the digital era – more artists than not hadn't made the transition from analog in the 1980s. This meant focusing on singles by a lot of artists I'd not heard of, and it quickly became evident just how much of the era – from approximately 1960 to 1974, when 7" records were all but abandoned in Egypt and Lebanon – had been forgotten.
What also became evident was the breadth of popular music issued by even hegemonic titan Sono Cairo. The consensus is that state radio and music publishing ignored traditional folk, shaabi, and other lowbrow pop in favor of the exalted art song we associate with Oum Kalthoum, Abdel Halim Hafez, and Farid al-Atrash.
While this active neglect of the broadest Arabic pop spectrum is mostly true, I accumulated a not inconsequential number of what I can only describe as "novelty" records by mostly one- and two-hit wonders. From catchy gimmicks like the "doktor, ya habibi" of Maha's "Doktor" and the "boom boom boom" of twins Thunai Badr's "Love Raid," to the Monty Python-level silliness of Sayed Mandoline's fake Italian crooning and maniacal laughter in "I Present to You the Mandolin," these were sounds I was genuinely surprised to hear.
Even more remarkable were the songs recorded in English: Karim Shukry's celebratory "Ramadan" and Motyaba & Nada's civil-rights plea "No Black No White" are two of my favorites, and thus included in the present collection.
The tracks compiled here are often as beautiful as they are beguiling, but while the intention was to absolutely put together a solid listen, it was also my hope to slightly expand our understanding of Arabic music of this period beyond not just the usual suspects, but also subjects – and treatment of same."
This album represents a significant evolution in the musical journey of Nick Viola, transitioning from the powernoise and heavy industrial sounds of his previous project, Fractured Transmission, into a techno-framed landscape. Spanning seven tracks, including remixes, the album features recurring sounds sourced from machinery, field recordings, and personal travels. These elements create an uneasy atmosphere oscillating between slight discomfort and absolute dread, offering a dystopian sonic experience fitting for the times we unfortunately live in.
The opening track, ‘A Ghost in Your World,’ sets an intense tone with distorted atmospheres and ‘It’s Still Real’ follows with a relentless pulse and swirling mechanical sounds, seamlessly flowing into Kenny Campbell’s remix of ‘A Ghost In Your World’, providing a cathartic release for the A side.
‘Drop Out,’ guides listeners on a psychedelic journey into the B side of the record, while ‘Negative Nancy’ ramps up the energy with an aggressive industrial techno assault offering an antagonistic jab at the current trend within the genre. Substencia’s remix of “Drop Out” delves deeper into psychedelia, offering an immersive trance-like experience relieving the tension of “Negative Nancy”.
The digital-only bonus track, ‘Tensor,’ maintains the album’s heavy industrial techno feel of a well-oiled machine, ready to pummel any underground sound system.
About Artist:
Nick Viola is a versatile electronic music producer known for his distinctive blend of industrial and techno music, drawing inspiration from a wide range of influences spanning from the gritty sounds of powernoise to the pulsating energy of techno.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Nick began his musical journey immersed in the industrial club scene, where he cut his teeth performing at the legendary Los Angeles industrial club Das Bunker. Here, he honed his craft and developed a deep appreciation for the raw, aggressive textures of industrial music. As the driving force behind the project Fractured Transmission, he made a name for himself with his uncompromising approach to power and rhythmic noise, earning recognition for his intense live performances and relentless sonic assaults.
However, Nick was always drawn to the rhythms and sounds of techno, and in a bold move, he embarked on a new chapter in his musical career, transitioning from the abrasive sounds and rhythms of powernoise to recontextualizing those sounds into a more techno landscape. With this album, “A Ghost In your World”, he showcases his evolution as an artist, seamlessly blending the industrial aesthetics of his past with the pulsating energy and frame of techno.
Spanning six tracks, “A Ghost In Your World” is a sonic journey through dark, dystopian landscapes and pulsating dance floors, where distorted atmospheres and mechanical rhythms collide to create a mesmerizing and immersive experience. From the haunting textures of “A Ghost in Your World” to the relentless energy of “Negative Nancy,” each track offers a unique glimpse into Nick’s sonic universe, inviting listeners to explore new depths with each listen.
Polish saxophonist, producer and composer Jerzy Mączyński fuses utopian electronics and organic improvisation on sci-fi jazz odyssey, DO 555ps. Building on his 2023 collaboration with Jamal Moss aka Hieroglyphic Being, DO 555ps is Mączyński’s first self-produced album – a tour de force of spacious, galactic sound design that leans into drone, minimalism and the rich history of sci-fi soundtracks for a 10-track suite of astral proportions.
Mączyński’s sound is both maximalist and restrained, sensitive to detail and atmosphere, defying categorisation and swirling in an orbit of its own making.
Set to be released on Eivind Vullum’s Vibrasjon label in Norway, DO 555ps follows the 2023’s TUNE IN, made under Mączyński and Hieroglyphic Being’s Universal Harmonies & Frequencies moniker.
Described by The Quietus as one of the most interesting records of the year (“as bold as it is massive”), TUNE IN laid the foundations for Mączyński to strike out alone on DO 555PS, inspired by Moss’s skewed production and arrangements to striking and unique effect. - Anton Spice
Emerging from the depths of the Minneapolis underground scene, The Worm is one of the best underground techno duos in the US, composed of midwest stalwarts Naughty Wood and Heckadecimal. Naughty Wood brings decades of experience, including collaborations on Traxx’s esteemed Chicago imprint Nation. The machine wizard known as Hecka- decimal boasts a deep catalog with releases spanning Always Human Tapes and Great Circles. In early 2016, the mysteri- ous tape-duplicator Ryan Wurst received some demos, which soon became The Worm, a very rare and limited cassette on Always Human Tapes. In April of that year, The Worm flew to Denver to perform live at a basement rave co-hosted by Deep Club and Always Human Tapes, at which Traxx also delivered a DJ set. The Worm’s sound was minted in Ryan Scannura’s brain.
Fast forward 8 years, and Ryan S. saw it time for two absolutely mental tracks from the AHT cassette to finally be pressed to wax, together with two other cuts. The A-side kicks off with “12 Days Of Squirm,” a deep, pulsating acid earworm that builds in intensity. “LISA” could almost be an outtake from a lost Nation session. The tune melds haunting melodies with a demented beat, sure to scare off most casual diggers. Deep Club presents two new-old tracks on side B. “808 Verb Talk” is a slimy, wiggly mix in the vein of 12 Days. Finally, “Pytch1” brings the energy down in an extended, slow-burning closer. Eight years and two Ryans later, this collection is finally ready for turntables in living rooms and foggy basements around the world. Only for the most devoted midwest techno warriors!
Spanish imprint Clock Poets returns with its sixth release, a nicely curated three-track V.A. that brings together Dan Andrei, Root, and label founders Marco and Javier (Clock Poets). Aptly titled Surrealism, the EP explores different shades of minimal techno and micro-house, offering a dynamic range of textures and grooves.
Dan Andrei sets the tone with 'Si Un Ecou' (A1), a stripped-back, bass-heavy roller with a raw, hypnotic energy. Laced with eerie, Hitchcockian tension, the track simmers with understated menace until a burst of heavily modulated synth chords cuts through the groove like a sudden flash of light — turning the mood on its head. Subtle yet striking creative decisions like these highlight Andrei's refined sonic evolution. On (A2), Root's 'Apophis' is a swing-heavy slice of classic micro-house. Shuffling drum patterns dart unpredictably, locking the dancefloor into a stealthy groove while growling synth textures add an air of mystique and atmospheric tension. A nod to the golden era of the genre, yet firmly grounded in the present.
Clock Poets close the EP with 'Galaxy' (B1), a sprawling 14-minute live-recorded behemoth, through microscopic sound design and intricate rhythm programming. Filtered, syncopated drum patterns weave through evolving bass stabs and delicate melodic fragments, crafting a hypnotic groove that pulls listeners deeper with every loop.
"Surrealism" is a carefully balanced record with a range of moods and styles for the lovers of thoughtful minimal dance music, and yet another compelling addition to the Clock Poets catalogue — refined and immersive.
The story of So-Do is both familiar and completely unique. A classically trained multi-instrumentalist with a poet’s sensibility and a passion for folk music meets a worldly bar owner with a love for psychedelia, post-punk and dub in the small town neither could bring themselves to leave. Over two years, they play dozens of shows in independent live houses across Japan, cut and self-release three singles – two 7”s and a 12” – and leave behind just eight tracks, all of which are set to be reissued for the first time forty years on.
So-Do’s Studio Works ’83-’85 collects the full output of this iconoclastic post-punk phenomenon, whose sparse, syncopated arrangements were infused with a dubbed-out flair that owed more to Dennis Bovell’s productions of Orange Juice, the Jah Wobble basslines of Public Image Limited or Adrian Sherwood’s live dubs of Mark Stewart than even they knew at the time.
Because for lead songwriter Hideshi Akuta, music offered an escape from the existential malaise of small-town life, folding a melancholy nihilism into tracks like ‘Kakashi’ and ‘Hashiru’ (which translates as ‘run’), or taking aim at the inequalities and creeping apathies of the middle classes, as he does on ‘Get Away’ and ‘Nothing’.
And if Talking Heads had CBGBs, Sex Pistols had the Roxy, then So-Do had Buddha. Influenced by Buddha venue owner and amateur producer Atsuo Takeuchi, Akuta turned So-Do’s sound towards dub, crafting playful, ironic and funky compositions that crackle with live energy at the vanguard of Japan’s nascent independent music scene.“So-Do is hard to explain,” Takeuchi says. “It’s been a struggle for years to try to find the words for our music.” The answer perhaps, is just to listen.
Both familiar and completely unique, So-Do extend Time Capsule’s genre-defining exposition of Japan’s reggae-inspired music of the ‘70s and ‘80s, as collected on the label’s two critically acclaimed Tokyo Riddim compilations, and London-based live outfit Tokyo Riddim Band.
Embracing the rip-it-up-and-start-again ethos of the early ‘80s, So-Do burned bright for a short time and then burned out. Their legacy is about to be reignited. Expect it to catch alight once more.
All songs are written & composed by Hideshi Akuta
Produced by Atsuo Takeuchi
Artwork by Ben Arfur
Liner Notes by Anton Spice, Ayana Honma, Kay Suzuki
Curated by Kay Suzuki
Licensed from Atsuo Takeuchi (Oregano Cafe)
Tape Restoration and Mastered by Mike Hillier at Metropolis Studios, London, UK
Limited run of cassettes, full on body print & double sided J-card, design by Ciaran Birch.
Over the last couple of decades, Dj.Mc (Hyperdub / Planet Mu / Good Street) has been consistently laying down release after release. His unique take on footwork catching plenty a ear, beginning with his single 'Y Fall' on Mu's VA compilation in 2011. Fast forward to 2025 and he lands on UK label Accidental Meetings, a shapeshifting & forward thinking imprint.
