Search:the groove

Though she was Stax Records' Queen of Soul (and Otis Redding was her king), there was much more to Carla Thomas. In 1967, even while being promoted by the name of her most recent album, The Queen Alone, she was expanding her sound, developing a cabaret act that showcased a mix of genres and styles and that was built around her beautiful voice. She was exploring new vistas when these two sides were recorded.
Isaac Hayes wrote "Loneliness". Carla's suave delivery evokes Diana Ross, and the shiny brass horns call out a Burt Bacharach arrangement as much as Stax. This is Carla with a nice polish on the groove.
Labelmate and friend Deanie Parker wrote "If It's Not Asking Too Much". A sparer presentation, the organ drives the tango rhythm and also—a second keyboard, I think—swells behind Carla, everything entwining and deepening the song's brooding tone. This is the kind of side that can both start your night or finish it.
Carla Thomas has got it all.

It is with great pleasure that we announce Mitchum Yacoub's debut album Living High in the Brass Empire_ a showcase in unique stylings of tropical funk, afrobeat, cumbia, and soul; a musical patchwork threaded by a heavy, hypnotic rhythm section and powerfully vibrant horn lines. What sounds like a 12-piece ensemble was actually mostly recorded and performed by Yacoub at his home in San Diego, featuring a few close friends from local groups Sure Fire Soul Ensemble and Boostive. The horn section is comprised of Travis Klein, Bradley Nash, and Wesley Etienne (featuring Todd Simon on "Los Muñequitos"), each with distinguished performances that send the music to higher heights. Nuanced vocalist Divina Jasso lends humanity and introspection throughout the head-nodding soul sounds of "Never Knew", latin dance anthem "Cumbia Divina", and the syncopated funk of "Empire". You'll hear rhythms from Colombia, folkloric percussion of Cuba, interlocking grooves à la Fela Kuti, 70's r&b influence, and something in between it all. Drawing many inspirations into a refreshing and unified record, we think you'll enjoy Living High in the Brass Empire.

Italy's Francesco Argentieri mints his TRUE IDENTITY label with the 'Self Control' EP, landing September 2024.
Argentieri has been active since 2019, with a discography spanning labels like Dutch institution Planet Rhythm, Insolate's Out Of Place and his 2021 'Natural Killer' album on Diffuse Reality - now starting his own label as a home for his output.

First up on Fransesco Argentieri's 'Self Control' EP is the title track, a raw techno tool with excellently built-out loops set to keep the dance floor in full flux. Next up, 'Chili' boasts an infectious groove shot through with soulful techno stabs before 'Awareness' rattles and shakes with ample layers of distortion. Argentieri's 'Self Control' EP on TRUE IDENTITY is a versatile release that will find a home in the record bags of many, with closer 'Model' being yet another classy and gorgeous techno cut with plenty of nostalgia.

Volume Two in the Electro Sampler Series of Nijmegen's finest Shipwrec. Another compelling electro V/A with tracks by Konerytmi and Ian Martin, amongst others. SES1 set out what quality electro means for Shipwrec. The first in the series brought together six musicians from far and wide, musicians who journey through the colder edge of their analogue instruments with a clear ear for the floor. SES2 starts where its predecessor left off. The genre bending Ian Martin opens with the frigid funk of "Metaphysical Travellers." Stripped back, the track is bare in terms of its elements. Despite such meagre ingredients, Martin concocts an engaging and rich work of darkened grooves and sinister undercurrents. o-0._.0-o is the playful pseudonym of acid freetekno enthusiast Owen. His contribution, "Acidrobotik", releases a free and wandering 303 lines that forges a bubbling path through crisp percussion. The flip brings an artist better known for his work in techno. Cliche Morph delves into the clinical side of his palette and emerges with the stunning "Placebo." Balancing alienated and arctic blasts with a thawing warmth, the outcome is pure classic electro. A rising star of machine music follows, Fleck E.S.C. A dirty bassline is further sullied by layers of gritty distortion and glitched vocals in this re-wired work of ghetto. A legend of electronics closes, Kirill Junolainen. Under his lauded Konerytmi moniker, this synthesiser shapeshifter delivers "Kuva Alkio." Stuttering bass and tight drums are the foundation from which sci-fi inspirations take hold, sailing strings tethered by a terse snare as SES2 is brought to a triumphal close.

'Daily Rituals' is the debut EP by DJ and Producer IDA. Released on her own Savy Records label, this is an immersive four-tracker that draws together IDA's years of experience playing techno, breaks, electro and 'everything in between'. 'Daily Rituals' offers club-focused compositions with heart, intuitively guiding us through the multitude of moods that colour the party from midnight to well past daybreak. The A side opens with the mood-setting, acid inflected 'Vapauteen', then delivers the characterful, distinctive bassline and addictive grooves of 'Dopamine Hunt'. The B side features 'Currents', including a remix from cosmic sound voyager and fellow Finnish producer Sansibar, with his dubby, drum-driven version of 'Currents' highlighting how these two artists both slickly sidestep genre constraints. The result is the emergence of IDA's singular musical voice, boldly and brightly expressed across her debut EP.

Fusing old skool flavours with a refreshed new focus, classic production outfit Universal Project are back on the forefront, making their mark in 2024 with their debut album ‘Universal Language’.

“Music is the one that is the hero. It is the Universal Language and we carry a certain message” - Bob Marley

Regardless of dialect, location, background or era, music transcends divisions and unites us together, the language of the soul. Universal Project set out to spread their language for everyone to understand.

Alongside remixes of classic UP tracks by Jubei & Zero T, the vinyl is backed by two exclusive original productions; chest shaking sub bubbler ‘Funk’d Up’ plus the darkside groove stepper ‘Zero DB’ with Xtrah.

Merkwürdig is thrilled to present you our second VA EP, featuring a lineup of talented artists who are pushing the boundaries of electronic music. Nate.SU, Bodj, OBG Felix Bergleiter & Thomas Grün and Fabiano José come together to deliver a diverse and captivating collection of tracks.

First up, Nate.SU takes us on a cosmic adventure with „Neutrino". This mesmerizing track combines atmospheric textures with pulsating beats, creating a sense of weightlessness and exploration.

Next, Bodj invites us to explore „Inside Reflux" with his intricate production. The track blends deep grooves with obscure melodies, creating a hypnotic and immersive experience.

OBG takes us on an travel „with the wave" with their atmospheric composition. Ethereal pads and mesmerizing rhythms.

Closing the EP, Fabiano Jose brings the vibes with "Discotale". This infectious track is filled with funky basslines, and catchy vocal samples, guaranteed to get the dancefloor moving.

Merkwürdig MW 002 is a testament to the label's commitment to showcasing innovative and forward-thinking music. Stay tuned for this Vinyl-only release, as it promises to be a journey through diverse sonic landscapes.

Secretsundaze marks a new chapter in the institution’s storied history with the foundation of imprint 9FINITY. Stemming from founder James Priestley’s daughter Ludo’s toddler-speak of ‘9FINITY’ to define something massive or huge, the label aims to run with this descriptor through no-nonsense, discerning dance records from artists at the vanguard of modern club music.

The label makes a statement with its maiden release, a V/A compiled with the considered curation synonymous with the Secretsundaze name.

9FINITY001 brings together the talents of Eoin DJ, DJ Life, Luca Attanasio, Coffintexts and E-Talking across 5 tracks and digital bonus that act as a distillation of the label’s sonic vision.

The EP kicks off with Eoin DJ’s ‘Red Rubber Roses’ (Rhythm Dub). A deep, yet driving affair that melds a subtle break with an organ bass line. Think Junior Vasquez meets Radiant Love and you’re getting close. Joining Eoin DJ on the A-side is Naarm production wizard DJ Life with ‘Aberration’. A true headspinner, Life pulls out all the stops on this one, brooding D n’ B style low end, his trademark psychedelic flourishes and a mid-track pace change for good measure. A statement of intent for the imprint on its opening stanza.

The flip opens with exciting newcomer Luca Attanasio’s ‘I Like You Mind’. Straight up intelligent modern house music to kick start the B-side with moody keys and sensual vocal samples juxtaposing a rising bassline that emphasizes groove. Next is Coffintexts’ percussive ‘Make U Sweat’. Doing exactly what is says on the tin, a bold club track with a heavy Latinx vibe that implores the listener to move. Last but certainly not least, E-Talking closes out an impressive opening outing for 9FINITY with the balearic tinged, progressive ‘Party’.

The EP also has an exclusive, Bandcamp only digital bonus with Coffintexts providing a dub wise, 140 version of ‘Make U Sweat’.

Jomni and Jori is an electronic music duo that has been deeply involved in the Japanese club scene, consistently producing sounds with an emotional and spacey vibe while bringing out the gem in electronic music to create unique club experiences. The record lovers who met in Kyoto have now dispersed to Cologne, Kyoto, and Tokyo, and have started a new label influenced by old records yet dedicated to exploring fresh sounds together with Miki.


"Slips" is a captivating blend of swinging beats and retro sound, featuring lush pads, melancholic chords and the randomly pitched synths. "Naizo" includes the catchy lead synth that serves as a guiding light, encouraging acceptance and self-discovery with its unforgettable melody and infectious mid-tempo groove. "Neuk" transports listeners to a world of liberation, where shimmering pads evoke the luminous breeze beyond deep-sea caverns. Underpinned by an expansive sub-bass that conjures visions of vast landscapes, it embodies an unwavering devotion to the art of dance. "Hitoshio" unveils the pulsating stab synths project the afterimage of the body onto the dancefloor with accelerating drums and anchored by classic house vocal samples.

Quintessential compilation of early collaborations by Silverlining (aka Asad Rizvi) with other artists between the golden years of 1996 and 2001. The album reinvigorates several timeless tracks—some known, others rare or unreleased—across a beautifully packaged 3LP with extensive sleeve notes and exceptional analogue mastering. The album includes sought-after and rare works by Two Right Wrongans, Impossible Beings, Appleheadz, Southern Comforters, and Bluegoose vs. Silverlining. The compilation includes one previously unreleased Impossible Beings track rescued from DAT archives. Moving from blissed-out listening into up-tempo underground grooves and then back, the anthology serves both headphone and heads-down-on-the-dancefloor listeners alike.

Axces Recordings presents the debut EP by CX, the producer alias of label affiliate Søren Kinch. The tracks on this release evoke a sense of melancholy and ethereal beauty, with a refined approach that complements the sound of modern club music.


The three tracks—Formula, Cobra, and Plethora—share a common structure of fast-paced grooves with a patient progression throughout. However, while Formula and Plethora both create an airy and hypnotic atmosphere, Cobra stands out by combining soft vocals with a harsher sound reminiscent of Robert Leiner. 

As a teenager, Søren met Torsten aka Helmuth Kool (1976-2015), a beloved figure and promoter from Aarhus who profoundly influenced his approach to music and raves. They often traveled to Berghain in Helmuth's old Saab 900 with only 4 gears. On this EP, Søren has dedicated the final track to Helmuth, who sadly passed away way too young—A playful and soaring track that Helmuth would dance to at his afterparty in heaven. 



Søren has been a part of the former Vektor crew and co-founded the renowned, though now defunct, club 'Et Andet Sted' in Copenhagen before joining Axces Recordings—a label that focuses on releasing club music and hosting intimate dance parties. It’s run by Alfredo92, A. Waze, Kasper Marott, Martin Gilleshøj, Matilde Gomes, and Popmix."


On this new EP by Lithuanian producer Pletnev on space•lab, we’ve got four tracks bristling with hypnotic rhythms and driving basslines. Each track is infused with warm and bouncy groove, punchy drum programming with a sprinkling of Pletnev's signature EFX and unique one shots.

On space•lab 013, Pletnev continues to push the boundaries, solidifying his reputation as one of the most exciting new producers on the scene.

As we get into the groove of the summer time; it comes with great pleasure to introduce the next release instalment that comes as a collaborative pressure of collectivity & quality musicianship to produce the EP that we had decided to title as the 'Forward On Riddim' which best describes the vast amount of works that has been going on with this link up between Ashanti Selah & Hark's riddim factory (many work in yet to be released in the pipeline!)

Featuring on the Forward On Riddim we have the vocal works of Zed Regal with a version called 'Magical Connection' which describes the deep sense of understanding and empathy between what would be seen as a search for the search of that divine soulmate.

Then leading into the next version on the riddim 'Overstand' with a message of upliftment for the good of Humanity to rise up and stand as one for the right cause in the spirit of Equal Rights & Justice for all Mankind - that is what we must overstand!

Last but not least we have the real deal artist Mad Sam with a track that he had voiced with no rehearsal fresh from the vibes of JA called 'Unbreakable' preaching words of wisdom to the youths of today to keep it firm and always show love & respect to receive it!

Hope you feel the vibe and message in the music as we bring you these heartikal sounds with an immense line up of top-class international musicians in what turned out to be the first collaborative project between Ashanti Selah and Zac Harkavy!
credits

Riding a wave of critical praise and positive feedback for his most recent Emperor Machine album, the fabulous Island Boogie, Andrew Meecham returns with a typically wild and dancefloor-focused set of dubs, ‘versions’ and remixes.

According to Meecham, Island Boogie is his most personal set to date – a full-length excursion that not only delivers perfectly formed expressions of his dub-tinged, off-kilter synth-boogie sound, but also tracks that draw deeply on his earliest influences and long-held musical expressions.

It’s fitting, then, that this remix EP begins with his own sparse, stripped-back ‘version’ rework of ‘S-S-S-Single Bed’, a fine cover of the mid-80s Fox single featuring the vocals of Michelle Bee. Meecham’s dub-wise revision is a skeletal and driving affair, with snippets of echoing guitar, colourful synths and Bee’s distinctive vocalisations rising above a weighty dub disco bassline and rock-solid percussion.

It's followed by two revisions of album favourite ‘Wanna Pop With You’ from A Love From Outer Space main man Sean Johnston under his now familiar Hardway Brothers alias. Combining his own love of raw, analogue-sounding electronics and trippy dancefloor psychedelia with select elements of Meecham’s original – percussion, synth sounds, crisp guitar licks and elements of Severine Mouletin’s lead vocals, Johnston’s main ‘remix’ is a weighty, mid-tempo treat. Arguably even better is his accompanying dub, which is more groove-and-effects focused and makes more of Beecham’s superb original bassline. It’s heavy, spaced-out and undeniably intoxicating.

To round off the package, long-time friend of the label (and sometime contributor) Rose Robinson dons her Tigerbalm pseudonym and gets to work on ‘La Cassette’. Brilliantly cutting up Severine Mouletin’s vocals, she delivers a driving slab of spaced-out, synth-heavy dub disco that adds more weight and energy to Meecham’s original. It’s a fittingly on-point way to close out a superb selection of club-ready revisions.

Marazion is a new colourful various LP inspired by the infamous Ballacid channel.

This LP contains 12 warm acid techno and electro tracks by upcoming artists all over the world.

Taken from the ultra-rare Japanese promo mix CD released in 2004 by madlib himself on his Mind Fusion label. Now on multi -coloured splater viny for the first time. Taking a selection of the best tracks, grooves and breaks from the legendary Mind Fusion Volume 2 mix CD here on vinyl for the first time ever are the entirety full length unmixed original versions. An amazing collection of extremely rare Jazz, Funk , Brazilian and Soul music from Madlibs eclectic and uber diverse record collection. The sleeve design is also a wonderful piece of contemporary art as first displayed on the Japanese mix CD now fully blown up to album cover size making this a must have for all rare art and music lovers.

In their musical journey spanning 15 years, Jungle by Night always knew their music isn't about individual talent, but in the blend of all elements its members bring to the table. This realization birthed the theme of their seventh album, “Synergy”. With the mantra "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts" echoing in their minds, Jungle by Night embarked on a mission to make an album that is recorded right in the moment, and as live as possible, to capture the energy between musicians. And to take it a step further, they threw open the doors of their studio in Amsterdam and invited some of Holland’s most prolific vocalists such as: Spinvis, Sef, Merol, Pitou, and Meral Polat. Each vocalist brought their unique style to the mix, infusing the tracks with depth and emotion. Recorded in their beloved studio in Amsterdam Noord, "Synergy" captures the essence of Jungle by Night's creative spirit. Here, imperfection is embraced, and spontaneity reigns supreme. It's about capturing the energy of the moment, where music comes alive in all its vibrant glory. So, dive into the world of "Synergy" and experience the crazy world Jungle by Night, and friends. It's more than just an album – it's a testament to the beauty of coming together and creating something greater than the sum of its parts. Jungle by Night are seven Dutch guys who together form a live act to be reckoned with. This Amsterdam band consists of a lot of synths, drums, bass, guitar and percussion enhanced by a trumpet and trombone. From more brass-heavy earlier albums to a stronger focus on the electronic groove on their latest, they bravely go where no band has gone before and now find themselves in the goldilocks zone between analogue dance music, nu-disco, Krautrock, 70’s funk and 80’s electro. The transfer to a more electronically driven sound might have been a small step for this merry band of highly skilled musicians, but it became a giant leap for the people on the dance floor. Their radiant and energetic live shows have become the must-see festival act that festivalgoers all over Europe include as a staple in their concert schedule. They know this won’t be a show, it’ll be a downright party. It’s like that tree in the forest. Was it really a festival if you didn’t see Jungle by Night? What constitutes this ever-present attraction is the highly danceable and addicting build up of their set, in which they take their audience by the hand and lead them into the groove. What happens when you come out on the other side? Depends. Just know you won’t be the same.

Over a catalog of six albums, Native Harrow have produced a discography of “rich, engrossing records” and “instant classics” while single-mindedly following their own artistic code, acquiescing only to the exigence of the song: each song its own world with its own rules.

Formed a decade ago, Native Harrow spent their first five or six years crisscrossing the United States and Canada on numerous tours, averaging more than 150 concerts per year in 47 states and 4 provinces, on the back of two self-released albums, Ghost (2015) and Sorores (2017). In 2019, they released Happier Now, partnering with London alt-country stalwarts Loose Records. The record garnered glowing reviews, with Rough Trade selecting it for its album of the month, writing “Beautifully soaring... rolling grooves ground languid and dreamy clearwater shimmers of sound.” The critical acclaim and Americana chart success of the album prompted three back-to-back UK tours in 2019 and early 2020, ultimately leading to a three-year stint living and touring in the UK and Europe. In this time, Native Harrow released two more critically acclaimed records with Loose; Closeness (2020) and Old Kind of Magic (2022), playing for audiences ranging from rock clubs in Norway and Sweden to opera halls in Portugal, and every stop in-between, as well as performing at festivals such as BST Hyde Park (supporting the Eagles and Robert Plant & Alison Kraus), Greenman Festival, Black Deer Festival, The Great Escape, Celtic Connections, Moseley Folk Festival, SXSW, and many more.

Following the eruption of its title track, Side A of “Divided Kind” transitions nimbly through hazy tremolo-laden dusty canyons, past an intimate soulful love letter, and towards a moody anthem of devotion buoyed by propulsive grooves, before ultimately settling on a gentle bird’s-eye-view of love and transcendence. Side B opens with the debut single, “Goin’ Nowhere” a soul transmission over incendiary bass and undulating layers of guiro, congas, tambourines, shakers, and handclaps that sidesteps into moments of infinite dial-toned burnished, Rhodes-propelled soul-jazz and self-assured blues rock à gogo before ending in a spectral folk reading on celestial meditation.

“Divided Kind” was produced and recorded by the pair, in their home studio surrounded by the vintage acoustic and electric guitars, dusty semi-functional amplifiers, and out-of-date Rhodes, B3, piano, and assorted percussion they’ve grown accustomed to. Chicago-based Alex Hall was again drafted to add drums and to mix, and Philadelphia drummer and engineer Joshua Friedman mastered the record. London-based musician Joe Harvey-Whyte added the pedal steel to “Borrowing Time”, with all other voices and instruments being performed by Tuel and Harms.

Almost exactly one year after their debut album on Sdban Ultra (2023), the pan-European trio KAU continues their energetic trip with a double single release. This release, packed with intricate synthesizer arrangements, rapid drum patterns, and deep resonant basslines, is once again focused on capturing and translating their infectious live sound to tape.

Fully playing off their energetic band dynamics, the trio draws on elements of jazztronica, combined with familiar jam sounds from acts such as Yussef Dayes and corto.alto, transitioning into a groove atmosphere reminiscent of Flying Lotus. Imagine the fusion of British jazz with the innovative, vibrant 'Brussels sound'-that's where KAU sits.

"Kaugummi" (chewing gum) is the latest original track produced by the trio. The idea evolved by combining a 'dub' bassline with an intricate drum pattern. The melody is reminiscent of the EP's other side, "Mad Kau," as it uses similar unapologetic, richly diverse, and grooving elements. Both tracks culminate in highly energetic moments distinguished by aggressive arpeggiators and synths.

"Mad Kau" is a present-day remake of their previous 2022 release "Mad Max." It's a true representation of how the track is played by the trio on stage, with its iconic melody as the heartbeat of the song. It evokes moments of madness both within the musicians and the listener, hence the title.

The new album from the original founding member of Kool & the Gang -- 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees! Drummer George “Funky” Brown, along with Robert “Kool” Bell on bass, his brother Ronald Bell on tenor and lead vocalist James "J.T." Taylor, was one of the main songwriters in their pop/R&B band Kool & The Gang, whose classic hits like “Jungle Boogie,” “Hollywood Swinging,” “Celebration,” “Get Down on It” and “Joanna” made for a novel and immensely successful pop-funk groove in the 1970s and ‘80s. Such songs have been featured in films (“Jungle Boogie” was in Pulp Fiction while “Summer Madness” appeared in Rocky) and have been sampled countless times by artists including DJ Kool, Mase, Too Short, DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince, Boogie Down Productions, Brand Nubian, De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, Nas, N.W.A., Kris Kross and Jermaine Dupri. Aside from being crowned 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees, Brown, with Kool & the Gang, has been inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame--and there’s a street in Jersey City named in the band's honor. The Grammy-winning group has received the Soul Train Legend Award and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Even though it came out on a major label, this record sells for hundreds of dollars if you can find it at all (we know…we paid for a copy), and it’s no wonder… it’s the perfect blend of raw R&B passion and smooth, sophisticated soul production. First, the passion part… Willie Tee was a New Orleans pianist and singer best known for recording a series of burnin’ 45s (some cut for Harold Battiste’s short-lived AFO label) during the ‘60s. I’m Only a Man was Willie’s album debut, cut for Capitol in 1970, and he brought the same deep-seated intensity to the record that he did his singles. The difference was, for I’m Only a Man, Willie’s warm, raspy voice was lovingly bathed in spectacular arrangements by H. B. Barnum and produced by the great David Axelrod. Strings, brass, xylophone, bluesy guitar licks, and a funky rhythm section are all percolating inside this record’s grooves, with a daring choice of material that ranges from Cannonball Adderley’s “Walk Tall” to the Bacharach-David nugget “Reach Out for Me” to the self-penned highlights “Mirror” and “Bring On the Heartaches” to the album closer “People” from Funny Girl. Capitol wasn’t known for breaking soul acts at the time, which may explain why this record remains a cult classic; we’re happy to give it the exposure it deserves, with a purple vinyl pressing limited to 1000 copies.

Opium Warlords' sixth album "Strength!" out on Svart Records in September 2024! Opium Warlords, led by Sami Albert ”Witchfinder” Hynninen (Reverend Bizarre, The Puritan, The Candles Burning Blue), return with their sixth album Strength! It is a versatile but tight combination of pussy techno, sludge, industrial pop, hardcore punk, drone, shamanistic pulse, noise, heavy metal, old school gothic rock and march music. It is a take on European rhythmic patterns: stagnant factory beat – no groove, no swing, just a rhythm of industrialism that pierces through different genres and styles. Comparing to the dark and oppressive Nembutal (2020), Strength! is significantly more light-hearted, with its postmodern lyrics emitting from sources such as shampoo bottles and television UFO series to the Pan-Europa myth or morbid lore of death-hungry Transylvanian Iron Guard. However, the sting of irony and sarcasm is balanced with more serious subjects: Strength! is a hate/love letter to Europe and a self-reflection on Machiavellian and Nietzschean philosophies of strength and elitism. True to the band’s soul everything is covered with pure toxic misanthropy. Strength! 2LP/digital/2CD will be released 13th of September on Svart Records. Album’s first outtake, Erotomania, is out right now via digital services worldwide.

Opium Warlords' sixth album "Strength!" out on Svart Records in September 2024! Opium Warlords, led by Sami Albert ”Witchfinder” Hynninen (Reverend Bizarre, The Puritan, The Candles Burning Blue), return with their sixth album Strength! It is a versatile but tight combination of pussy techno, sludge, industrial pop, hardcore punk, drone, shamanistic pulse, noise, heavy metal, old school gothic rock and march music. It is a take on European rhythmic patterns: stagnant factory beat – no groove, no swing, just a rhythm of industrialism that pierces through different genres and styles. Comparing to the dark and oppressive Nembutal (2020), Strength! is significantly more light-hearted, with its postmodern lyrics emitting from sources such as shampoo bottles and television UFO series to the Pan-Europa myth or morbid lore of death-hungry Transylvanian Iron Guard. However, the sting of irony and sarcasm is balanced with more serious subjects: Strength! is a hate/love letter to Europe and a self-reflection on Machiavellian and Nietzschean philosophies of strength and elitism. True to the band’s soul everything is covered with pure toxic misanthropy. Strength! 2LP/digital/2CD will be released 13th of September on Svart Records. Album’s first outtake, Erotomania, is out right now via digital services worldwide.

Through X Scroll Era, Gabo Barranco, aka AAAA, conducts a rigorous overhaul of the aesthetics and statements of low-profile IDM, trance, and progressive-acid music typical of the early 2000’s. In addition to this inherent and undeniable veneration for the era, the pieces on this album — which originated from recordings and experimental exercises with gear and accidentally became an album — serve also as a kind of retrospective inspection of Mexico City's suburbs (Lomas de Sotelo), with landscapes full of indiscriminate concrete, highways of two and three levels, factories, and parking lots that have supplanted nature with their own detached beauty. It is a sound memory, a specific melancholy that praises skate squads of the area, friends from the past, parties, and substances. It reviews the decline of rave culture but also its resilience and capacity for transformation. What AAAA offers us with X Scroll Era is an almost multigenerational soundtrack, a memory that feels collective and recollects euphoria, ecstasy, and nostalgia.

After several LPs and EPs (Acid Test, Omnidisc, Janushoved) and several years active in the dance and contemplative electronic music circuit (MUTEK, BERGHAIN, iii Points, RBMA), X Scroll Era is the first album by Gabo Barranco, aka AAAA, published on the Mexican label Umor Rex.

The 2nd album from the Franco-Swedish songwriting duo. An album that blends airy poetry and pointillist pop, accompanied by the groove of drummer Larry Mullins (Swans, Nick Cave, Iggy & The Stooges redux) along with superb brass arrangements.

8/10 REVIEW IN METAL HAMMER : ‘’YOU GET THE FULL ON THRASH AND SLAYER-ESQUE SQUALLS OF FIRING SQUAD ALONGSIDE THE AWESOME CRUNCH OF AND GROOVE OF EXECUTIONER’S TAX (SWING OF THE AXE). IT SOUNDS IMMENSE’’

A razor sharp recording that effectively proves how lethal this band was in the flesh. As the title states this album was recorded live in Seattle at Neumos 5/28/18.

The set list is a brutal selection of cuts from the Nightmare Logic & Manifest Decimation albums + a deep cut/fan favourite: “Suffer No Fool" . 11 killer thrashing tracks full of all the fire and venom that only this band can deliver.

8/10 REVIEW IN METAL HAMMER : ‘’YOU GET THE FULL ON THRASH AND SLAYER-ESQUE SQUALLS OF FIRING SQUAD ALONGSIDE THE AWESOME CRUNCH OF AND GROOVE OF EXECUTIONER’S TAX (SWING OF THE AXE). IT SOUNDS IMMENSE’’

A razor sharp recording that effectively proves how lethal this band was in the flesh. As the title states this album was recorded live in Seattle at Neumos 5/28/18.

The set list is a brutal selection of cuts from the Nightmare Logic & Manifest Decimation albums + a deep cut/fan favourite: “Suffer No Fool" . 11 killer thrashing tracks full of all the fire and venom that only this band can deliver.

8/10 REVIEW IN METAL HAMMER : ‘’YOU GET THE FULL ON THRASH AND SLAYER-ESQUE SQUALLS OF FIRING SQUAD ALONGSIDE THE AWESOME CRUNCH OF AND GROOVE OF EXECUTIONER’S TAX (SWING OF THE AXE). IT SOUNDS IMMENSE’’

A razor sharp recording that effectively proves how lethal this band was in the flesh. As the title states this album was recorded live in Seattle at Neumos 5/28/18.

The set list is a brutal selection of cuts from the Nightmare Logic & Manifest Decimation albums + a deep cut/fan favourite: “Suffer No Fool" . 11 killer thrashing tracks full of all the fire and venom that only this band can deliver.

Everything is out of control / from melting pots to melting poles - das aktuelle Album der Grazer Alternative-Bande The Base lässt unsere Welt abgeranzt und hässlich glänzen. So beginnt es gleich wie ein dunkler, erdiger field holler. Bei einem field holler rufen sich Sklaven, Gefangene oder Zwangsarbeiter Worte und Sätze zu, die durch ihre Wiederholung den Rhythmus zum Arbeiten angeben - und zum Überleben. Sing or die! Everything falls apart / and everyone is acting smart. Norbert Wally und seine beiden Spießgesellen starten ihre torture de force im tiefen Süden, in der Ursuppe des Rock`n`Roll, im tiefen Sumpfland des Delta-Blues. Aber The Base sind weit davon entfernt, eine Bluesplatte aus dem Schlamm und Dreck auszugraben. Bei "It's all Going South" stehen eher Bands wie Fun Lovin' Criminals, The Clash oder Pixies Pate. The Base verstehen Blues als Brandbeschleuniger: Die Stories, die Statements, die Visionen - kaum je waren Norbert Wally (Voice/Guitars), Albrecht Klinger (Bass) und Karlheinz Miklin Jr. (Drums) so politisch, so sozialkritisch, so wütend. Und nie waren sie so sarkastisch wie 2024. Blues, das heißt Tanzen auf dem Vulkan. Lachen beim eigenen Begräbnis. Und die Fäuste ballen, wenn miese Abzocker das Gute und Schöne beflecken um aus der Wahrheit eine Ware zu machen. Der Opener "High Time For Panicking" ist ein Meisterwerk für sich: Innerhalb von eineinhalb Minuten schießt er uns vom Pre-War Blues alter Lomax-Shellacs in den lärmigen Groove einer New Wave Combo, die um ihr Leben spielt. Der Titeltrack "It's All Going South" flimmert der Ferne wie ein Wüstenkaktus in, der gerade von Mr. Tarantino in einem 1967er Chevrolet Impala Sport Sedan niedergewalzt wird: dünenweise Hall auf der massiv geforderten Gitarre, die in Slow-Mo durch die Story wandert. Ein Bass, der vor Clint Eastwood den Hut zieht. Die Atmosphäre: Calexico deluxe. "Alles geht den Bach runter" so Wird die titelgebende Redewendung ins Deutsche übertragen. "Chemically Speaking Alcohol Is Still A Solution" könnte als Antwort auf alle gutgemeinten Versuche gehört werden, eine Welt voller Diktatoren, Kriegsgerät und Wahnsinn mit Vinyasa-Yoga und Lactobacillus bulgaricus im Joghurt zu retten. Waren die vorhergehenden Alben betont reduziert und puristisch, so gönnen sich The Base auf "It's All Going South" Backgroundchöre, fetten Vintagesound und lassen ausgiebige Studioeffekte. Das sitzt jedoch alles wie angegossen und zeigt die Qualität der Songs, denen knapp anliegende Taucheranzüge ebenso gut stehen wie schillernd verbrämte Kostüme. Niemand zieht aus dem Wort "happy" so viel Melancholie wie Norbert Wally und folgerichtig ist auch die Single-Auskoppelung "Waiting for June" ein Liebeslied, das gar keines ist. Aber der zwingendste Grund das Album anzuhören heißt "No One's Safe". Ein Song der sich wie ein Drillbohrer durch das Innenohr zur Großhirnrinde vorarbeitet. Soundcollagen, Voice-Over, eigenartiger Noise - immer tiefer bohrt sich der Song, bis er den Erdkern erreicht. Norbert Wally zeigt in seiner Stimme eine elegante Verletzlichkeit, die an einen David Bowie der 70er-Jahre erinnert. Die Intensität von OK Computer drängt sich auf. Niemand ist sicher. Game over! "It's All Going South" ist die bisher schmerzhafteste, politischste Platte von The Base. Wie schade, wir werden alle untergehen - und das kann zumindest verdammt sexy klingen.

We’re excited to present you Yurk’s First Vinyl album on Chomp! Chomp! This six-track all original music by Yurk, is diverse and rhythm heavy across the electronic genres. Kicking off the album with “Delay Tech,” this 90s-inspired acidic house track is festival-ready with big energy. Then we dive into “Bustin’” - a bouncy Tech House with punchy and multiform tones. Follow by “Sin Control,” warm Jazzy House grooves accompanied by delayed filled Trumpet theme. On the B side, “Cosita” - a hard-hitting Detroit-inspired dub techno composition that treks into 90s territory. Follow by “El Nuevo Jazz”, a playful and dynamic track which combines punchy percussive electro breaks with a high-spirited bassline. To conclude the album - “Satori,” takes us on a spaced-out acid house journey, inspired by the Japanese Buddhist term for awakening, offering a psychedelic and uplifting finale.


Yurk is a dynamic producer and DJ from Puerto Rico, now making waves in Brooklyn's music scene. Blending Latin rhythms with global electronic beats, he has released music with local labels like Mechanical in Queens, NY. As the head of Organized Disorder, Yurk hosts a biweekly radio show, along with an all vinyl monthly Saoco! Party focused on Caribbean and outernational music.


All Tracks written and produced by Yurk. Mixed and mastered by Justin Van Der Volgen. A3 trumpet by Robert PM. B1 vocals by Timo Lee. Album Art by Bráulio Amado. "Dedicated to Erik and my beloved mother Laura, whose spirits guide every note with love and grace.” -Yurk

Max Jaffe wasn’t planning on creating an album commemorating the decade-plus he spent living in New York City while recording Reduction of Man. Operating as a preemptive elegy, Reduction of Man traces Jaffe’s musical trajectory while in New York City - a process of becoming fluent in several musical languages and cultures all at once, rather than the linear education of an MFA musician (which Jaffe also is). Jaffe’s second “solo” album finds him at the helm of an ensemble - leading the project as he plays: one hand drumming, the other composing and editing on the fly, shepherding multiple musical voices towards a single end - a sinewy tension between noise and groove.

FOR FANS OF: Soundgarden, Foo Fighters, Queens Of The Stone Age, Silverchair, Black Sabbath
Wie sie selbst zugeben, gab es eine Zeit, in der es unwahrscheinlich schien, dass Torus überhaupt hier stehen würden, um der Welt ihr Debütalbum
vorzustellen. Das ist an sich schon eine überraschende erste Aussage, die aus dem Mund von Frontmann und Band-Mastermind Alfie Glass kommt,
während er und seine Bandkollegen im Wohnzimmer seines Hauses außerhalb von Milton Keynes sitzen. Jeder Schritt, den Torus bisher
unternommen haben, wurde mit Interesse und Beifall bedacht - bereits vor der von der Kritik gelobten Debüt-EP Sail" schwärmten die wichtigsten
Kritiker wie Kerrang! und Classic Rock von ihrer Marke des Null-Bullshit-Hardrocks", der gigantische Riffs und dicke, monströse Grooves" in der
Tradition von Rockgrößen wie Kyuss, Queens Of The Stone Age und Smashing Pumpkins bietet. Wenn Ihnen der Name Alfie Glass noch vertrauter
vorkommt, liegt das wahrscheinlich daran, dass Black Sabbath-Gitarrenlegende Tony Iommi die Fähigkeiten des Sechssaiters in der TV-Talentshow
Guitar Star lobte, als Glass gerade mal 12 Jahre alt war. Torus begann als Ein-Mann-Schlafzimmerprojekt, wurde aber schon bald durch den Bassisten
Harry Quinn (2020) und den Schlagzeuger Jack Orr (Anfang 2022) ergänzt. Trotz ihrer unterschiedlichen musikalischen Hintergründe und Einflüsse, die
von Wüstenrock über psychedelischen Prog bis hin zu Punk reichen, verbindet das Trio der gemeinsame Wunsch, Musik zu machen, die die Köpfe zum
Klingen bringt und die Füße bewegt. "Wir kommen alle aus verschiedenen Ecken, haben aber eine gemeinsame Vision für die Musik, die wir schreiben
wollen", nickt Orr.

"Sometimes you have to take sides", singt Adele Ischia im Opener des Debüts der nach ihrem Nachnamen - aber mit kleinem "i"! - benannten Band (nichts zu tun mit der gleichnamigen italienischen Vulkaninsel). Sowas nennt man wohl Statement. Da schadet auch nicht, dass "Sides" mit einem hypnotisch wabernden Gitarrenriff herein prescht, wie es einem Kevin Shields unter die Finger hätte kommen können (Ischia ist hörbar ein My Bloody Valentine-Fan, nicht die einfachste Vorgabe, die man sich als Gitarristin stellen kann). Im Februar erschien die krautrockig groovende Debüt-Single "Sleep", im September kommt das Album! In ihrem Line-Up versammeln sich Leute, die sonst mit anderen Größen der Wiener Indie-Szene auf der Bühne stehen (Endless Wellness, Yukno, Sharktank, Cousines Like Shit...). Tatsächlich sind ischia aber kein Seitenprojekt, sondern die aus jahrelanger Freundschaft und spontaner Assoziation entstandene Band rund um Frontfrau und Namensgeberin Adele Ischia. Auf ihrem Debüt-Album "Leave me to the Future" offenbart sich die breite Palette ihres Sounds, von Krautrock-Grooves bis zu Post-Shoegaze-Psychedelik, doch in dessen Kern steckt dabei stets ein melodiöser Popsong. Und ischia präsentierten einen gänzlich anderen, veritabel psychedelischen Post-Shoegaze-Pop-Sound als gewohnt gehört, entpuppen sich als Band mit breiter dynamischer Vielfalt, beseelt von einer zugänglichen Mischung aus Witz und Melancholie, ziemlich gut für eine Band, die sich erst vor etwas mehr als einem Jahr zusammengetan hat. Neben dem Release ihres Albums werden ischia dieses Jahr aus praktischen Gründen übrigens vor allem gemeinsam mit Endless Wellness auftreten. Luckily, sometimes you don't have to take sides.

"Sometimes you have to take sides", singt Adele Ischia im Opener des Debüts der nach ihrem Nachnamen - aber mit kleinem "i"! - benannten Band (nichts zu tun mit der gleichnamigen italienischen Vulkaninsel). Sowas nennt man wohl Statement. Da schadet auch nicht, dass "Sides" mit einem hypnotisch wabernden Gitarrenriff herein prescht, wie es einem Kevin Shields unter die Finger hätte kommen können (Ischia ist hörbar ein My Bloody Valentine-Fan, nicht die einfachste Vorgabe, die man sich als Gitarristin stellen kann). Im Februar erschien die krautrockig groovende Debüt-Single "Sleep", im September kommt das Album! In ihrem Line-Up versammeln sich Leute, die sonst mit anderen Größen der Wiener Indie-Szene auf der Bühne stehen (Endless Wellness, Yukno, Sharktank, Cousines Like Shit...). Tatsächlich sind ischia aber kein Seitenprojekt, sondern die aus jahrelanger Freundschaft und spontaner Assoziation entstandene Band rund um Frontfrau und Namensgeberin Adele Ischia. Auf ihrem Debüt-Album "Leave me to the Future" offenbart sich die breite Palette ihres Sounds, von Krautrock-Grooves bis zu Post-Shoegaze-Psychedelik, doch in dessen Kern steckt dabei stets ein melodiöser Popsong. Und ischia präsentierten einen gänzlich anderen, veritabel psychedelischen Post-Shoegaze-Pop-Sound als gewohnt gehört, entpuppen sich als Band mit breiter dynamischer Vielfalt, beseelt von einer zugänglichen Mischung aus Witz und Melancholie, ziemlich gut für eine Band, die sich erst vor etwas mehr als einem Jahr zusammengetan hat. Neben dem Release ihres Albums werden ischia dieses Jahr aus praktischen Gründen übrigens vor allem gemeinsam mit Endless Wellness auftreten. Luckily, sometimes you don't have to take sides.

"Sometimes you have to take sides", singt Adele Ischia im Opener des Debüts der nach ihrem Nachnamen - aber mit kleinem "i"! - benannten Band (nichts zu tun mit der gleichnamigen italienischen Vulkaninsel). Sowas nennt man wohl Statement. Da schadet auch nicht, dass "Sides" mit einem hypnotisch wabernden Gitarrenriff herein prescht, wie es einem Kevin Shields unter die Finger hätte kommen können (Ischia ist hörbar ein My Bloody Valentine-Fan, nicht die einfachste Vorgabe, die man sich als Gitarristin stellen kann). Im Februar erschien die krautrockig groovende Debüt-Single "Sleep", im September kommt das Album! In ihrem Line-Up versammeln sich Leute, die sonst mit anderen Größen der Wiener Indie-Szene auf der Bühne stehen (Endless Wellness, Yukno, Sharktank, Cousines Like Shit...). Tatsächlich sind ischia aber kein Seitenprojekt, sondern die aus jahrelanger Freundschaft und spontaner Assoziation entstandene Band rund um Frontfrau und Namensgeberin Adele Ischia. Auf ihrem Debüt-Album "Leave me to the Future" offenbart sich die breite Palette ihres Sounds, von Krautrock-Grooves bis zu Post-Shoegaze-Psychedelik, doch in dessen Kern steckt dabei stets ein melodiöser Popsong. Und ischia präsentierten einen gänzlich anderen, veritabel psychedelischen Post-Shoegaze-Pop-Sound als gewohnt gehört, entpuppen sich als Band mit breiter dynamischer Vielfalt, beseelt von einer zugänglichen Mischung aus Witz und Melancholie, ziemlich gut für eine Band, die sich erst vor etwas mehr als einem Jahr zusammengetan hat. Neben dem Release ihres Albums werden ischia dieses Jahr aus praktischen Gründen übrigens vor allem gemeinsam mit Endless Wellness auftreten. Luckily, sometimes you don't have to take sides.

Comparsa is the third studio release by the musical group Deep Forest. The group consists of the duo Michel Sanchez and Éric Mouquet and are known by composing a style of world music, mixing ethnic with electronic sounds and beats. Comparsa features a pronounced focus on Latin and Caribbean grooves, provided by musicians from Cuba, Belize, Mexico and Madagascar, among other places. It became #8 French export album of 1998 and was certified Platinum by SNEP Export Awards, with more than 500,000 albums sold outside France.

Every Trick in the Book' is the new single from Bristol-based beat makers, The Allergies. True to form, they've whipped up a sun-kissed groove that'll add a splash of colour to your day, whatever the weather. This A-side takes a vintage vocal sample from the 'Queen of Rock n Roll' herself – none other than Tina Turner! Yeah, you know 'Private Dancer', 'What's Love Got To Do With It', 'We Don't Need Another hero' etc. That Tina Turner! Jeez Louise!
Well the guys have supplemented her pipes with loops from a long-forgotten Latin boogie 12", and layers of live horns, cuts, drums, and FX, to give us a joyous mid-tempo groove that you'll be humming for weeks. While the flipside takes it back to '91, as long-time Allergies collaborator, Andy Cooper, reworks his hero Big Daddy Kane's classic 'Nuff Respect'.
This cover version takes the fast raps of the original, tweaks them, and fires them back over an explosive backdrop of scratches and b-boy beats.

Next up on _NRV, CHKLTE takes us on a mesmerizing journey. "Enchanted Alley" establishes a hypnotic groove with deep basslines, perfect for late-night sets. "Fallen Algorhythm" delivers a dynamic auditory experience with a driving tempo and ethereal synths. "The Other One Follows" features a rolling bassline and snapping percussion, a straight groove torpedo launched from the kind of sub we'd rather be around. Cristi Cons's remix of "Fallen Algorhythm" adds a pulsating bassline and slicing percussion, creating a high-energy rave weapon sure to vaporize anyone standing in front of the speakers, all while maintaining the essence of the original, if you were at Sunwaves 32, there's no way you didn't hear this bomb drop.

Spanish new grooves for the new era! The latest sample of some of the best tracks from the effervescent and creative new scene of funk, soul and R&B produced in Spain!

For the first time on vinyl! We present the fourth volume of the SAMPLADELIA series. After the resounding success of the previous volume, Enlace Funk magazine has selected sounds from funk, soul and R&B made in Spain 2023 and which are published for the first time on vinyl format.

The fourth installment of Sampladelia opens with an infectious tribute to Prince by Calequi, El Sr. Rojo brings then a bomb of raw hip hop and funk. Astrid Jones & The Blue Flaps delights us with their luxury soul and Chacho Brodas with the production by Griffi, surrounded by an all-star of names, offers solid R&B.

Lalo López ends the side A with his Limited Orchestra with the best electro funk hit. The B side starts with Julia Martín´s modern soul anthem with a positive message for the dance floor. The second track, the debut of Donny's Black Shoes, is a shocking declaration of principles that will give a lot to talk about.

Drunk In Palace updates the sound of the 80s in a personal way and Juli Giuliani brings the groove to the dancers. The last track, “Las paro todas” by Javier Simón offers R&B loaded with a message. This volume of Sampladelia presents the effervescent and creative new scene of proposals based on funk, soul and R&B made here in Spain and never before published in physical format.

Tracklist Side A A1. Calequi Y Las Panteras: Sandía A2. El Sr. Rojo: Dos Gatos A3. Astrid Jones & The Blue Flaps: Shine A4. Chacho Brodas: Sta. Mandanga A5. Lalo López Limited Orchestra: Contradicciones (Ft. Brigitte Emaga Y Kapi One) Side B B1. Julia Martín: Low B2. Donny´S Black Shoes: Why?! B3. Drunk In Palace: Hardfunk B4. Juli Giuliani: On My Way B5. Javier Simón: Las Paro Todas

Hittin your decks in 4 weeks time on a Cannonball Records' 7"/45rpm, “U need me” by the LA Propinquity surfaces as part of a body of productions initially meant to be put out all together on an album. As often seen, for many reasons this didn’t happen and we are offered the privilege to release it on our flagship label first time ever. A modern soul dancerof the highest order out of a couple of premium recording studios in Los Angeles (included Hit City West with award winning engineer Avi Kipperat the controls) by the hands of Maestro Sanifu Hall and his Aljoni Music Co. featuring what could easily be defined the L.A. Dream Team of musicians, to include the infectious groove of drummer supreme James Gadson (previously featured also on our long sold outs with Mike James Kirkland) and many other stellar players from the area. I know I’m a weirdo so, to my taste, the most remarkable stuff sits on the flipside. Sanifu’s slick instrumental arrangement enriched by the flute of Todd Del Giudice, seamlessly in and out from the verses, makes it a sublime slice of original Soul Jazz from the late 70’s. Actually we really struggled to put this version on the back up side of this release as, with that hint of west coast fusion, it’d be worth a main side on its own. Just listen to both versions, judge by your excellent selves and make your move accordingly. Full links and presale details on our website for your consideration. ***The full cover above is an artwork done exclusively for digital & social media promotion.