Cerca:the shine

From Sweden with Italo to Dresden with love. Stockholm's DJ City drops his first release on Dresden's Uncanny Valley with the COSMICOMICS EP, a 100% fun record for all the senses, deeply inspired by Italo Calvino's iconic short story collection.

The stories have inspired DJ City to a record that aesthetically draws from 80s Italo Disco and 70s science fiction films. In the book, each story is based on a scientific fact about the world and the cosmos whilst using fiction to ask how we understand it. Where Calvino's stories are comical and absurd, DJ City surrenders to the sublime and romantic and moves further into the metaphysical world that Calvino created to come up with three energetic and melodic tracks bursting heavily with fantasy and drama. Deeply rooted in dance music's history, they shine with Hi-NRG-vibes, strict dancefloor commitment and little easter eggs like that Drexciya-reference in COSMICOMICS.

The cover of the record is a painting from 2020 by Swedish artist Jens Faenge called THE INN. The picture seems to have been broken up into several dimensions, and abstract details make it difficult for the viewer to know exactly what and when the scene is taking place. When shown in Shanghai, the painting was censored by government agents and had to be taken down. A testament to the power of the image. Perhaps it shows our main character, perhaps it shows us the author or the artist. Depending on who listens, who reads and who looks, a multitude of universes open.

Myriad has always bought its A game to the table. This EP from Madcap and Shine showcases the perfect way to make a summer amen roller. Proper vibes for the dancefloor, the dj, or the lazy afternoon, this one drops hard either way and makes you want to move...

Building on the foundation of his two EPs for Samurai Music, we proudly present Urmah, the first LP exploring the 170 tempo from acclaimed Techno/Electronic producer Juan Rico aka Reeko, aka Architectural.

Reeko has now become an integral part of the overall Samurai Music sound. His work resonates deeply within the label's ethos, and Urmah exemplifies this synergy, highlighting his ability to enrich and expand Samurai Music's vision and push the boundaries of his own artistic expression.

For Urmah, Reeko delves even further into sound and psyche with a richer, more enveloping exploration into his distinct interpretation of the tempo. Reeko's production prowess shines brightly on Urmah with the warmth and weight of each track leaving an indelible impression.

Urmah focuses on heady fathomless grooves that tease shards of breakbeats like delicious icing, binding themselves to a gentle psychedelia with celestial textures. This is dexterous, meditative journey music from a producer who has an intimate relationship with groove creation.

As one of the most respected Techno producers in the genres long history, Reeko's influence and mastery are undeniable. With Urmah, he further showcases his expertise, expanding his palette to display a refined command of the 170 BPM tempo. The LP is a testament to his ability to innovate and redefine, solidifying his reputation as a pioneering force in electronic music.

Occasionally an album comes along that seems to capture the mood of the time. "The K&D Sessions" was one. In the late 1990s no afterparty, smoking session or languid Sunday afternoon was complete without Kruder & Dorfmeister blasting from the Bang & Olufsen. Now approaching it"s 25th anniversary the lore around this iconic release, steeped in a silvery cloud of smoke, retains a star quality which only shines brighter as time hurtles on. With the original having sold well over a million copies by this point in time, it"s hard to imagine a mix or remix compilation being able to inform a movement like "The K&D Sessions" has. To celebrate this monumental milestone, we"ve created a limited boxset in 6LP and 3CD of "The K&D Sessions", mastered and cut by LA luminary Bernie Grundman for a luxurious listening experience, with newly designed inner sleeves using unseen photos from the original photo shoot. Inserted in the box is a forty-page booklet containing multitudes more never before seen photos from the same shoot and notes which recount humorous tales surrounding the duo and the people who spent time with them in this epoch. Included on the 6th LP is their legendary 11 minute shimmering remix of Madonna"s "Nothing Really Matters". The 6th LP also contains Peter Kruder"s Powercut Mix of Roni Size"s "Heroes" and K&D"s remix of U.F.O, "L.O.V.E.". In addition there are two cerebral alternate remixes of Lewis Taylor, one being completely dubbed and the other the using the vocal line for this beautiful gem, "Lucky" and a special remix of "Speechless" by Count Basic. These have been staples in K&D"s sets and now take their rightful place collected in the canon of "The Sessions".

Locked-In returns with its eighth vinyl release, showcasing the talents of DOTT in a four-track EP.

The A-side opens with "Shock FM", setting the EP's tone. DOTT's masterful sound design is fully displayed, building tension and release through intricate percussion. The track's progression is sure to captivate dancefloors and headphone listeners alike.

"The Helper Returns" follows, diving deeper into atmospheric territory. Swirling synths intertwine with a driving bassline, evoking vast, subaqueous landscapes. The track's subtle evolution reveals new sonic details with each listen.

Flipping to the B-side, "A Bit of Dis & Dat" presents a more stripped-back approach. Its minimalist structure allows each carefully placed element to shine, from crisp hi-hats to a rumbling low-end. This is DJ material to maintain energy while adding depth to their sets.

The EP closes with "Sine Bass Runs Deep." Here, undulating rhythms and shimmering top-end create a sense of constant motion, perfect for those early morning hours when the dancefloor is locked in a collective trance.

The second taste of what is to come from the Dave & Maurissa album, 'What About My Love' is a modern slightly boogiefied take on the Johnnie Taylor classic. Here Maurissa shines with a heartfelt soulful vocal performance over Chic styled guitars, hip-cracking bass guitar and squelchy leads. On the flip is Disco Sparks's 'Keep Your Eye On The Sparrow' (feat Christine Wiltshire & The DS Orchestra) which is another life-affirming, lush disco/soul cut with funk drenched basslines, epic brass sections and standout vocal turns. Both specially edited for 7", this is an absolute must-buy for disco lovers.

Long overdue, we are happy to welcome Damiano von Erckert to Cocoon Recordings with his debut single, bringing late summer vibes that were well worth the wait. Damiano's lovely energy shines through in this EP, resulting in music that blends soulful character with his signature house sound.

“Steam (Staub Mix)” lifts your spirits from the very first beat, and the summery vibe of the housey Rhodes piano brings a smile to your face. Yet, the track retains a somewhat wistful and melancholy feel. Skillful intonation gives the break a jazzy feel, it's this friction that makes it special. Von Erckert showcases his skill with this playful arrangement, sure to have dancers' hands reaching skyward. The second track “Das Was Not Around” is a masterclass in purism, where simplicity meets profound emotion. Swirly synth pads unfold to create a dreamy, immersive atmosphere, pulling listeners into its depths. Despite its introspective title, a sense of hopefulness permeates the track, as if reaching for light through the shadows. Damiano’s approach allows every element to shine, making the deep grooves and ethereal sounds feel both intimate and expansive. It’s a journey of reflection yet imbued with a quiet optimism that lingers long after the final beat fades.

The essence of reduced Chicago drumming is brilliantly embodied in “Roh”, channeling a raw, stripped-back rhythm that strikes with precision and purpose. This forms the bedrock of a composition that feels timeless. The track carries an unmistakable grandeur, echoing the majestic hymns of certain legendary French artists. As the beats develop, they evoke a profound sense of reverence and nostalgia, seamlessly blending classic house influences with a modern edge. It's a track that honors the roots while confidently advancing the frontiers of contemporary house music. "Fantazia 93" is a nostalgic dive into a ‘90s House vibe, channeling the essence of that unforgettable era with authenticity. Damiano's signature sounds are front and center, infusing the track with a unique touch that’s fresh while reminiscent of classic house anthems. The track exudes an Ibiza after-hour feeling, transporting listeners to those sun-drenched days where time seems to stand still. It’s a sonic journey that feels like sunbeams warming the skin, bathing the senses in a radiant, feel-good energy that resonates long after.

Wellington, New Zealand-based producer, drummer and band leader Cory Champion aka Borrowed CS delivers his second release on Planet Trip Records ~ Rise N Shine EP, expanding the infectious outsider boogie sound he explored on ‘Mystic Shuffle’ (off 2020’s Balance/Ascend EP) into a six-song suite of neon-lit machine funk, mutant post-disco and uptempo future soul. Draped in synthesisers that sparkle and glitter like summer sunlight hitting the harbour waters, the programmed Roland TR-606 drums and keyboard bass on these club tracks absolutely snap, wobble and groove.

From the space-aged melodies and throwback electro bounce of ‘All My People’ (featuring the pioneering British electronic soul vocalist Steve Spacek) to the dialled-in dancefloor weaponry of the title track and ‘Potplant’, the A-side of Rise n Shine unfolds like Friday night at a 1980s roller disco. On the flip, Champion reconnects with the idiosyncratic Māori singer-songwriter Mara TK to pen another golden-voiced chapter in the hi-tek South Pacific future soul story with ‘Hearsay’ before diving into some deep mid-tempo body music on ‘Subsonix’ and ‘Mystic Dream’. One for the dancefloor dreamers, Rise n Shine, will be available in 12” vinyl (limited to 300 copies) and digital versions.

Not so long ago in 2017, the first release on Michiel Claus' and Ailsa Cavers' Basic Moves saw the light of day and especially the shine of night. Produced by founding father Walrus, BM01 set the tone for a record label that focuses on releasing hidden archives from the 90s, whilst combining them with modern club music from the here and now. By highlighting the musical heritage of the Belgian electronic music scene, the label illustrates the continuity between past and present, history and shaping identities of 21st-century artists, undeniably building on the strong foundations of their forerunners. Seven years and nineteen releases later, Basic Moves is rounding off the series with BM20, a final double 12'' by one of the major figures from the Belgian underground: Circadian Rhythms also known as Dj Deg. After many years of collecting, deejaying and producing music, his musical spectrum ranges from synth, library and wave, to jazz, funk and disco, from house to techno. His journey started in clubs like Bocaccio (1988 - 1993), and La Gait? (1979 -1989), where young Deg came across deejay's like Olivier Pieters or Eric Beysens who made him choose the path of becoming a devoted disc jockey himself. BM20 is a sonic witness of Deg's first musical encounters with his machines, revealing a withdrawn selection of six bedroom patchwork tracks produced between the years of '93 & '99, a time without the internet or user manuals to help you solve the riddles of technology. Though only at the very beginning of his creative process, Deg's unique personality is nevertheless already clearly identifiable: blending techno with jazz, where the sharp edges of 16-step drum-sequences are smudged and bent in different directions. In the lower countries, the second half of the 90s was a period of fast & funky, happy Detroit, 140 BPM techno. Whenever Deg was not oscillating between record shops or gigs and had a moment on his own, mostly during morning hours after the club, he would spend his leftover energy in the studio. Either by himself or with his loyal ally Mike DMA, he would benefit from these moments to slow down and give space to a different, introverted sound - processing moods, feelings and thoughts. This record therefore gathers only a few of many (unrecorded) one-shot live sessions which were never intended to be shared - and only existed for the love of music and its power to take you beyond all things known. Thank you Deg for sharing your music and giving us a glimpse of your universe. Without your productions, your memorable warm-ups and closing sets - many of us would not be where we are now, and Basic Moves might never have been founded. As a last note to a closing song, BM20 is about being fully committed to the music and the club, a medium and place of fruitful settings for encounters, creativity and growth. Where dreams and ideas have a chance to exist, being almost ready and thought out to shape future times to come - and many party nights. Gurl, December 2023

For over a decade, Mako has been a distinctive presence, both as an individual and through his music, a talent we've proudly showcased at Metalheadz.



This September, we are honoured to release his third album on the label, and his second solo endeavour, which serves as a seamless continuation of his earlier work. His 2020 album, 'Oeuvre', represented years of dedication and refined production, solidifying Mako's esteemed place within the Metalheadz family.



Now, four years later, we're thrilled to present 'Oeuvre – Part 2'. This 12-track album is a celebration of Mako's deep passion for music, while also reflecting his sometimes disillusioned views on a modern era that often seems to pass us by. In a world where individuality can struggle to shine amidst an overwhelming flood of content, Mako's superior production stands out as a beacon, demanding not just recognition, but active listening.



Mako's commitment to his musical community is evident throughout the album, with contributions from long-time collaborators Fields, Hydro, Villem, and Mikal, each bringing their unique expertise to the project. The album also features a special collaboration with the late Marcus Intalex, a friendship that blossomed in the years before Marcus' untimely passing and one that continues to bear fruit.



Diving into the heart of the album reveals Mako's charm as a producer: from the captivating vocals in 'Feed You', the sleek homage to techstep in "Suspension', to the pure dancefloor energy of 'Direct Source', a track long favoured by Goldie. As expected, Mako also delivers deeper, more contemplative pieces like the album's opener 'True Expression' and the graceful melodies of 'Overshare'.

For over a decade, Mako has been a distinctive presence, both as an individual and through his music, a talent we've proudly showcased at Metalheadz.



This September, we are honoured to release his third album on the label, and his second solo endeavour, which serves as a seamless continuation of his earlier work. His 2020 album, 'Oeuvre', represented years of dedication and refined production, solidifying Mako's esteemed place within the Metalheadz family.



Now, four years later, we're thrilled to present 'Oeuvre – Part 2'. This 12-track album is a celebration of Mako's deep passion for music, while also reflecting his sometimes disillusioned views on a modern era that often seems to pass us by. In a world where individuality can struggle to shine amidst an overwhelming flood of content, Mako's superior production stands out as a beacon, demanding not just recognition, but active listening.



Mako's commitment to his musical community is evident throughout the album, with contributions from long-time collaborators Fields, Hydro, Villem, and Mikal, each bringing their unique expertise to the project. The album also features a special collaboration with the late Marcus Intalex, a friendship that blossomed in the years before Marcus' untimely passing and one that continues to bear fruit.



Diving into the heart of the album reveals Mako's charm as a producer: from the captivating vocals in 'Feed You', the sleek homage to techstep in "Suspension', to the pure dancefloor energy of 'Direct Source', a track long favoured by Goldie. As expected, Mako also delivers deeper, more contemplative pieces like the album's opener 'True Expression' and the graceful melodies of 'Overshare'

Four of the freshest Blaze remixes come together on wax for the first time on Slip ‘N’ Slide, ‘Blaze Remixed’. The West London label is home to some of the best house music that crossed the Atlantic from the 90s onwards, and today the imprint continues to refresh Blaze’s legendary catalogue with remixes from leading industry figures. Up first, British producer Atjazz takes the cool feel of ‘So In Love’ from the minds of Kevin Hedge & Josh Milan as Black Rascals, adding his signature genre-crossing style. Jimpster’s take on ‘Wonderland’, featuring Josh Milan on vocals as Alexander Hope, stabilises the track while allowing the free-flowing feel of the OG to shine through. Brooklyn native DJ Spinna’s remix of ‘How Deep Is Your Love’ capitalises on Hope’s powerful vocals, supported by impeccable synth-laden production, before vinyl aficiando Natasha Diggs closes out this Blaze collection with her remix of ‘Breathe’; Diggs stays faithful to the original’s iconic saxophone and trumpet-led sound, sprinkling in her tasteful flair for smooth grooves and delicious synthwork at every turn.

We welcome Torn back to Samurai Music for a full length return trip.
Immortal ventures back into the abyssal realms that Ivans music inhabits with 13 meticulously crafted solo works. Meditative, brooding and hypnotic, it's a hauntingly immersive journey that shines a light on his singular vision and artistry.
From the outset, Torn descends into the subterranean with unmatched precision. Each track on Immortal is an intricate colage of raw, sinewy textures and eerie melodies,meticulously woven to create an intensely intoxicating experience.
Standout pieces like the title track 'Immortal', 'Into The Abyss', Unending Rails' and'Glacier' display the inimitable Torn style in its full glory. Immaculate rhythms and layered atmospherics, forever evoking a sense of inexorable momentum
What sets Immortal apart is its ability to maintain a cohesive narrative while exploring diverse sonic and rhythmic territories. Torn seamlessly transitions from the minimalist, almost meditative ambience of tracks like Reckless and I Dare to the more aggressive, beat-driven attacks of Inner Battle and Invisible Turmoil. Each piece contributes to the overarching foreboding atmospheric journey.
For aficionados of deep, shadowy atmospheric drum and bass, Torn's Immortal is indispensable, a tenebrous soundscape that is equal parts innovative, disquieting and enthralling.

Beat machine freak duo Bill Converse and Patricia (Max Ravitz) present 380/750, a new EP on Acid Test that blends the two producers’ singular styles to form an emotive “introspection on the dance floor” experience over the course of 4 tracks.

Recorded at Ravitz’s Brooklyn studio over the course of two days, 380/750 features raw, no-multitrack, no-edit live recordings that showcase the duo’s intuition for expressive rhythm tracks. Considering Converse’s roots in the 90’s Michigan rave scene, and Ravitz’s Chicago upbringing, the midwestern strains really shine through. With rhythm-composer mutations, acid dripping over atmospheric synth textures, and the ever-present jack throughout, 380/750 offers a deep sound to get lost in that feels both new and classic at the same time.

Dark Entries again shines a spotlight on bathhouse disco don Patrick Cowley with a newly remastered release of Kickin’ In. Although Cowley tragically passed from AIDS-related illness in 1982, he left an extensive archive of unreleased tapes, many of which Dark Entries has had the honor of releasing. While working as a lighting technician at The City, SF’s disco cabaret, Cowley saw rising star Frank Loverde perform. Cowley asked Loverde to contribute vocals to some material in progress, and Frank, Linda Imperial, and Peggy Gibbons joined Cowley in the studio. The resulting songs included “Kickin’ In,” a 9-minute cybernetic disco stormer that taps into the essence of Cowley’s hi-NRG sound: equal parts spaced out and zoned in on the dancefloor. In May 1978 Cowley joined Loverde on stage at The City to perform “Kickin’ In” as they opened for disco diva Sylvester.

“Kickin’ In” was initially released in 2015 via Honey Soundsystem who found the tapes in the basement of Megatone Records owner John Hedges. This newly remastered version was made possible due to the discovery of the original multi-track recordings of "Kickin’ In," allowing for a fresh mixdown by Jim Hopkins as well as the creation of a new instrumental version. Also included are two impeccably sleazy Cowley jams recorded in 1980, “Thief of Love” and “Make It Come Loose.” Cowley narrates excerpts from his erotic journals on these raunchy slow-burners, capturing the vibe of SF’s leather bars and backrooms. “Thief of Love” features frequent Cowley collaborator Paul Parker on background vocals. This reissue of Kickin’ In includes features an illustration by Gwenaël Rattke that originally appeared Cowley’s erotic journal, Mechanical Fantasy Box, as well as a postcard with lyrics. “Patrick parted the veil and entered a dark world of forbidden vices, wondrous musical panoramas and bold, strident, hopeful possibilities. Patrick brought the future to us and laid it at our feet.” – David Diebold, Tribal Rites

Continuing its streak of lit releases, Modeight Records now shines a light on an exciting new Romanian talent Raz, based in Manchester. Injecting some sick minimal house grooves, infectious energy into 4 original compositions. The young artist captivates the listener with his raw and rollicking flow. From the mega fun, head bobbing bassline jam and smooth vocals on "Time Chamber", to the slick electronic riffs of "Fun Ensemble". The deep, sub sonic wiggle of "A Sharp Delay", Raz carves out a sophisticated and hella enjoyable sonic journey diving into "Orange Glide". A breakout release for an artist who's definitely gonna be one to watch in the future.

With Australia‘s dance music scene being more prolific than ever, it‘s only fitting that one of the continent‘s hottest tickets appears in the Running Back universe. Sam Alfred‘s debut on it’s subsidiary Misfit Melodies melts the old with the new, swings the hips with the hits and unites the past with the future. The man with the adorable underground white label mp3 Shine II Dawn under his belt, is not only a DJ to die for, but also a witty, interesting and most of all enchanting studio talent. Aptly titled Roadblocks, this 5-track-EP once more underlines his appeal: his-speed house and sprinkles of retro rave meet the melodies of tomorrow.
While My Heart and Back To sound like Strictly Rhythm tracks played by UK Garage DJs, Drift and Fortune are prime examples of Sam‘s production powers. last, but not least the title track is the result of a trip to Dekmantel and a nod to the proggy bounce of the 90s. Built with love and made to last.