Suche:toronto

Stepping up for Punctuality number 8 is the dynamic duo of Ciel and Matthis Ruffing. Needing little introduction, both artists are prolific producers and collaborators across tempos and genres. Toronto-based Ciel has released music on labels like NAFF, Peach Discs, and !K7, while Berliner Matthis Ruffing’s work can be found on International Chrome, Infinite Drift, and Strictly Strictly, to name just a few.

Bonding over a shared love for the techno stylings of Claude Young and early 2000s tech/prog house from labels like Future Groove and Slide, the duo’s collaboration began with a spontaneous jam in Ruffing’s Berlin studio during the summer of 2022. With an organic studio chemistry, the pair continued to jam over the following years. Hot Squid is the result of these studio experiments: five tracks of sleek, muscular, contemporary tech house that fluidly distill the creative visions of both artists—slick, shimmering grooves, heavily weighted for the dancefloor.

The title track, Hot Squid, weaves dubbed-out waves of FX and low-end sonics around metallic, staccato drum bursts, sci-fi pads, stuttered vocals, and syncopated snares that flit and flicker around a rolling bassline reminiscent of golden-era UK tech house from the late ’90s. Roza Terenzi’s remix flips the original into a modern, low-stepping tek roller—a mind-bending re-fix that puts more focus on the snaking vocal groove and a sparser percussion arrangement, filled out with lustrous textures and razor-precise sound design.

On Little Voice, glossy synths and spiraling atmospherics cascade around a mesmeric vocal line, while tightly wound, minimal drum loops give way to a swaggering bassline that barely relents throughout the track. The result is a satisfyingly boshy, groove-driven roller, fit for the dancefloor at any time of day.
Late Summer maintains the EP’s high-grade production standard in the form of a dreamy, electro-leaning tech house number, resplendent with deep, pummeling kick drums, woozy low-end, and organic sonics. Its plucked melody and introspective pads nod to halcyon-era IDM and the Detroit techno that inspired the duo in creating Hot Squid.

The release culminates in Bong Bong—a meditative dancefloor tool suffused with ASMR-like nature documentary samples that lend the track a psychedelic intimacy. Careening percussion lines and swooning chord stabs anchor the rhythm, while the title’s “Bong Bong” mantra hums beneath the surface, carried along by barely perceptible sub fills and ultra-processed percussion. A cohesive, unique, and enduring take on seminal tech house and Detroit techno from Ciel and Matthis Ruffing.

While Toronto producer Demuir regularly features on a wide variety of house labels, it's always worth keeping an eye on his Purveyor Underground label and its' limited-edition offshoot. He's back on the latter label for this outing, where he shares vinyl space with long-serving Parisian producer (and Robsoul founder) Phil Weeks. Demuir handles side A, delivering two passes on 'The Spark': the lightly funk-fuelled original mix, where woozy jazz samples dance atop a rubbery bassline and vintage Masters at Work style beats, and the more bumpin', cut-up and sub-heavy swing of the 'Some Too Suspect remix'. On side B, Weeks delivers 'Party Time', a typically low-slung and analogue-rich deep house number where classic boogie-era vocal samples and occasional chords wrap around loose-limbed machine drums and a killer TB-303 acid bassline.

After recent Ron Allen reissues on Emotions Electric and our own Classic Cuts imprint, it's time to revamp the mothership itself: Strobe Records. First one up in this new campaign is R.A.S.E.'s The Ron Allen Sound Experience EP -- a four-tracker, originally out in 1991, that captures what is timeless about Allen's signature sound: warm basslines, soulful vocals, and that Toronto swing. The A-side serves up two uplifting mixes of Get On Up, while the B-side goes deeper, yet keeping the soul fully intact. A perfect reintroduction to one of Canada's prime house architects.

Kasablanca deliver their long awaited debut album ‘Higher Resolution’. Hitting milestone after milestone over the past five years, Kasablanca has quickly risen through the ranks of dance music must-see acts. Launching into the scene with their first singles in 2020 they struck gold early on with their hit collaboration ‘Run’ alongside Lane 8. With over 40M streams on the track since, the duo hasn’t looked back since. Hailing from Toronto, Canada the band has been explosive over the years since their first ‘Human Learning EP’ in 2020. Most widely known for their enthralling live performances, Kasablanca has played some of the world’s most well-known venues and festivals, like Printworks, Coachella, Red Rocks, Carnival in Brazil and The Gorge to name just a few. Their songs have also been heard worldwide across radio airwaves including features on BBC Radio 1 and Sirius XM (which brought in their #1 hit with ‘Run’) as well as thousands of spins from stations across North and South America, Europe and Asia.

A four-piece band based in Tokyo.

Initially playing reggae/dub music, the band gradually developed into an innovative fusion of diverse musical influences, such as jazz, soul, psyche pop, new age, and exotica. A sound is based on groove and euphoria, with nostalgic melodies.

They have performed at iconic events in Japan such as Fuji Rock Festival, and also have been looking overseas since they performed in Canada(Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver) in 2019. The new EP "Ramble In The Rainbow"(2024) is their first international release on the US label Peoples Potential Unlimited.

The work shows their musical maturity, drawing inspiration from Sun Ra, Lee "Scratch" Perry, and Yasuaki Shimizu.

"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. "

Scott Pilgrim EX, the newest video game from the Scott Pilgrim franchise developed by Tribute Games, is out now with an all new original soundtrack from Anamanaguchi. The sprawling soundtrack, which accompanies a brand-new storyline co-written by series creator Bryan Lee O’Malley, perfectly connects the band's legendary electronic past with their fuzzed out garage rock present while maintaining their unmistakable punchy style. Known for resonant world building across past projects, the depth of emotion and the range of styles displayed on Scott Pilgrim EX are uniquely Anamanaguchi while delivering a host of melodically anthemic and new energetic hooks that are sure to pack a punch for both newcomers and old school fans of the band alike.

Anamanaguchi's collaborative relationship with the Scott Pilgrim universe goes back to the early days of the band. After cutting their teeth programming music with playable Nintendo cartridges and helping to bring a wider audience to a largely internet based 8-bit chiptune scene, the band was brought in to score the fan-favorite soundtrack for Scott Pilgrim vs. the World: The Game. The success of this game soundtrack would help them to launch an early crowdfunding success story with their campaign for their debut album, 2013's Endless Fantasy. From there the band would go on to collaborate with virtual pop star Hatsune Miku (resulting in the perpetually viral, Fortnite featured hit, “Miku”), and later develop the intricately soundscaped compositions displayed across their second album, USA, but throughout it all the connection between the band and the Scott Pilgrim universe would remain a pivotal source of inspiration.

After being brought in to score the animated Netflix series, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, in 2023, band members Peter Berkman and Luke Silas would credit the live kinetic energy they channeled when writing songs for the in-universe garage band Sex Bob-Omb with helping them get back in touch with the roots of how they learned to play music even before Anamanaguchi's earliest releases.  This process would eventually lead to Peter and Luke alongside the remaining two band members — Ary Warnaar and James DeVito — flipping their typically meticulous digital writing process for the more collaborative, straight to tape, distorted angst that can be found on 2025's Anyway, marking another significant evolutionary turn for the band to come out of their relationship with Scott Pilgrim.  

Now fresh off the heels of a nationwide tour in support of Anyway, Anamanaguchi have returned to the 8-bit beat em up world of Scott Pilgrim with a relentlessly high energy and genre defying original soundtrack for Scott Pilgrim EX.  A return to form that comes with a depth of knowledge and innovative skills that have allowed the band to continue to evolve and grow alongside the characters in the Scott Pilgrim universe and the multi-generational fanbase that continues to follow along with them.

The new soundtrack for the latest installment in the Scott Pilgrim franchise, Scott Pilgrim EX

With his new offering"The Stone Tablet", New Jersey native Brainorchestra solidifies his legacy in underground hip-hop, carving out a raw and unfiltered masterpiece that feels as timeless as it is bold. Produced entirely by Brainorchestra himself, the album is a testament to his relentless pursuit of authenticity and artistry, drawing listeners into a world where intricate beats meet introspective bars, and sticking to his proudly independent operation.

Featuring guest appearances from UK’s SonnyJim and Toronto's Raz Fresco, "The Stone Tablet" brings together diverse voices that seamlessly blend with Brainorchestra’s visionary beats. Each track adds to the album’s mystique, with moments of reflection, hustle, and sharp wit, all contributing to Brainorchestra’s mark on the modern hip-hop landscape.

The album cover, crafted by Italian artist Claudio Scialabba, embodies the album’s theme with its raw, textured feel — reflecting Brainorchestra’s relentless, chiseled approach to his craft. "The Stone Tablet" is a statement, a monument that etches Brainorchestra's name alongside the genre’s most revered creatives.

In the wake of their widely-acclaimed album Union, JUNO-nominated duo ÈBONY rematerialize on the dancefloor with the otherworldly Shades of Meridian EP, projecting a waking futurist dream haunted by echoes of Detroit techno, Chicago house, South African melodies, and the rich mythology of Ancient Toronto.

Opener "Break My Skin explores a hidden pocket of after-hours techno space-time with an ethereal vocal by James Baley, leading into the tense, disembodied jack of "Forever." Next, "Dull Side First" rides a spectral break through a sepulchral warehouse trip, "RIFT" invokes peak-time witchcraft, and closer "My Daylight" entrances even the most self-possessed sound-and-lighting guys to spam the smoke machine until reality itself is occluded.

And to those who say that working with JUNO-nominated artists proves that Turbo is just a cog in the CanCon cabal, we would like to familiarize you with the facts: Canadian Tire refused to carry our 2023 Bryan Adams remix LP and we have rejected five separate demos from Justin Trudeau's tech-house alias "Arabian Nights." It's called integrity - try looking it up sometime.

N1_SOUND & Ras Yunchie join forces on an 8-track LP that transcends both definition and generation. INNA DJ STYLE, out November 7th, marks the Toronto veteran singer’s first-ever vinyl release.

Pairing four vocal cuts with four dub versions on the b-side, INNA DJ STYLE bridges experimental dub, digi, and roots, embodying what Ras describes as an “open” sound—one that draws from reggae traditions while boldly breaking new sonic ground.

N1_SOUND first encountered Ras’ distinctive voice and soaring falsetto at Toronto sound system parties. A cornerstone of the city’s reggae scene, Ras Yunchie has been performing since 1983 and remains a vital presence more than 40 years on. His contributions have been recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National DJ Association, alongside titles such as DJ of the Year, DJ Sound Champion, and winner of the 1985 DJ Sound Clash.

While the rhythms pulse with heavy bass and the three-dimensional lead melodies synonymous with N1_SOUND, it’s Ras’ vocals that make INNA DJ STYLE truly shine. Each track was recorded in a single take and left largely untouched—a testament to the raw talent and enduring artistry of the 61-year-old singer. Across the four vocal cuts, the alchemy of contrasting styles, influences, and lived experience highlights how collaboration can push sound and genre into bold, unexpected territory.

Pacific Northwest native and a mainstay of the Portland and Seattle scenes since the late 90s, Trevor Vichas, now becomes part of the Selections label family with the sort of smooth cruising EP that will quickly become a staple in the record bags of deep house heads. 'With You' opens with the sort of gentle, meandering chords that get you daydreaming while the subtle sax lines add some soul to a warm groove. London's Max Sinal of Soul Quest Records remixes with extra drive, then 'Your Love' brings a Terrence Parker-style soul to the EP. Rising Toronto DJ and producer Nicholas Nothing adds a more funky perspective to round out a diverse and delicious EP.

Another hot 2 sider from Chicago's STAR CREATURE and Miami's MIA (not to be confused with M.I.A.) and her "patented Bedroom Boogie meets Dancefloor Romance vibe". A-side features Toronto's ALADEAN KHEROUFI for a midtempo duet, the B-side is a hard but tender 2-step boogie bomb.

Toronto/Berlin producer and Big Trouble Records founder Andre Zimmer has emerged as one of house and techno’s hottest commodities, fresh off his scorching fabric Records release with Carlita. Now he joins DJ Tennis’s Life and Death label with the announcement of his 4-track Kwon Anthem EP, out September 19.

Arriving alongside the announcement is the lead single “Hypnotizing” — a piano-driven, ethereal cut that highlights Zimmer’s ability to channel rave nostalgia into shimmering, emotive house designed for peak dance floor moments.

The EP also features the standout track “That’s Right”, which has already been making waves across clubs worldwide. With early support from Peggy Gou, Jennifer Loveless, Massimilliano Pagliara, Alinka, Jorkes, Luigi Di Venere, and more — including rotations at Panorama Bar and viral fan videos from Bella and beyond — it’s quickly becoming one of Zimmer’s most in-demand productions.

Across Kwon Anthem EP, Zimmer balances hypnotic, orchestral breakdowns, progressive trance textures built from Roland SRX patches (“Kwon’s Anthem”), and a cosmic, downtempo detour structured around a 707 jam (“Hours”). It’s his most ambitious and wide-ranging statement yet — and a fitting debut on Life and Death.

With support from underground tastemakers and appearances at clubs and parties worldwide, Zimmer’s DJ sets reaffirm a classic but forward-thinking approach to house music.

The Beatles played two shows at the Montréal Forum on September 8th 1964, a matinee at 4pm and an evening performance at 8pm and at 6pm they held a press conference for Canadian Broadcasting Corporation from the Forum’s stage. A local newspaper had reported that somebody was going to kill Ringo, so instead of staying the night in Montréal, they flew out straight after the evening show and arrived at Key West at 3.30am where hundreds of fans were awaiting them. After a day off in Miami, the group performed at the Gator Bowl in Jacksonville, Florida the following night.
We have done the best we possibly could with these admittedly lo-fi yet important historical recordings. The source is AM radio and there is considerable distortion on the vocals. The broadcast was faded out halfway through A Hard Day's Night so the last two songs of the show, I Want To Hold Your Hand and Long Tall Sally were not transmitted.

For their second release, Shimmy turns to JK47’s ‘Vacation EP’, a mysterious record that slipped onto the shelves of Toronto record shops in 2003 and is now sought-after by discerning dance music collectors. Self-distributed by Kaelo Gallagher at the time, it joined a short run of his own releases that were clearly marked by his distinct sound. Combining elements of progressive house, breakbeat and deeper grooves, this EP is no different.

Soaked in dub and psychedelia, the four tracks on the ‘Vacation EP’ offer a unique take on the typical ‘prog’ sound. Crunching percussion meets cosmic synths and tripped-out vocals, with JK47’s iconic basslines rumbling throughout. Whether it’s played at peak-time, after-hours, or the grey areas in between - it’s time to shimmy.

The Vessel Recordings Group label is headed up by Ira James who has shown he has great taste when it comes to tapping into global house sounds. This new EP is another standout with Toronto talent Demuir behind the beats. He brings his signature mix of influxes to this one starting with 'Conversing With Angels' which has disco-tinged loops and soulful, feel-good vibes that liven up any party. 'Everynight' has a deep cut and funky groove that is made all the more arresting and emotive with the vocals and smart synth filters, while 'Mizz Hunni' comes as a hefty tech stomper and also as a dub.

Orphx makes a striking comeback with a six-track EP on KR3, celebrating Rich & Christie's three-decade career in the industrial music scene.

Theikos EP - spans multiple eras and moods, merging raw, ancient production methods with modern interpretations. The result is a sonic landscape that bridges pulsing club rhythms with the intense energy of extreme electronics and death industrial. The title track, "Theikos," began in 1998 and was only finalized in 2024, years of evolution shaping it into a truly formidable piece.

This 12" release stands out as a deep and fully realized body of work, filled with personal insight and resonant echoes of a primordial world.
The standard edition comes in a sleek single-pocket gatefold sleeve, featuring a 1997 photograph taken in Toronto by Michael Nine, capturing the duo in their early years and visually anchoring the album to the roots of their sound. Limited and special editions include an exclusive booklet with archival photos of Orphx and a poster, along with a promotional videos featuring remastered and reimagined archival footage created especially for this release.

Bangladeshi Born Producer Lady Tazz, debuts ‘Sleaze’ with a killer remix from Radio Slave this June. At the heart of Lady Tazz’s mission is Mind Medizin, her label and event series that champions the sound of kindred spirits, now inviting Radio Slave to the mix this June.

Lady Tazz has overcome many cultural obstacles to achieve her rightful place as one of Toronto’s foremost electronic dance exports. A renegade of sorts, as a teenager, she would regularly visit the UK and Germany without her parents’ knowledge to attend London’s Sound Academy and to party in Berlin, whilst continuing to pursue her aspirations of becoming a DJ.

The Bangladeshi producer and DJ is proud of her heritage but is realistic about the social expectations of throwing raves in her hometown. She moved to Toronto in her teenage years, where she grew up, educating herself on music and a place that has perfected a sound that remains organic and raw. Her record label and party series, Mind Medizin, taps into an erotic lifestyle that embraces the unconventional and free-spirited, which inspires and motivates Lady Tazz on numerous artistic levels.

For Mind Medzin’s latest release, Lady Tazz will drop ‘Sleaze’ on the 27th June, to include a special remix from Rekids founder and UK godfather, Radio Slave, making his debut on her label.
Foreboding and dripping with lascivious intent, ‘Sleaze’ brazenly stalks into existence by way of warping synth fills and glitching hi-hats. The lyrical component consists of a series of smouldering vocal hooks which salaciously enrapture one’s senses, tightly wrapping around the creeping melody before succumbing to the beat’s stomping dominance.

On the flipside, Radio Slave’s remix revs and fires with shots of ringing overtones atop a deep thud, husky vocal and swooshing cymbals. Whilst upping the ante of the original, its stripped-back charm remains, culminating in a moody, chugging rework bubbling with tension and fraught with Radio Slave’s brand of dark, fractured house.

2025 Repress

Bar Part Time launches its record label with none other than Toronto UFO hunter, certified bad boy DJ, and good friend Cal-C. Cal comes correct with a ripper of a 4 track EP, Bath Bomb. A deep digger and wild style DJ in his own right, Cal brings you a grip of tracks that a tasteful selector can make use of throughout all points of a night time music party. Title track "Bath Bomb" is a blissed out, downtempo joyride that would make a perfect companion for either sunset or sunrise. "Morning Dew" evokes sounds of all your favorite early 90s Italian records, with a particularly euphoric crescendo. Hey man, did you say this guy was from Toronto or Torino? Either way, molto bene! As we move on, "Blurry Moon" is a slice of dancefloor perfection that sounds like something Jose Padilla would've made if he were from San Pedro instead of San Antonio. And lastly, the aptly named "Wine 69" (nice) is an M1 organ cruiser that's practically begging to be heard in front of an azure sea in balmy temps. Vamos a la playa!

The Patchouli Brothers are best friends bound together by oddities. They share an affinity for the esoteric side of disco, house, and all other forms of soulful dance music. They hold down a residency at Beam Me Up, a disco night in Toronto & Montreal, and have had releases on some of their favourite labels like Defected, Nervous, Razor-n-Tape, Soundway, GAMM, Soul Clap, Star Creature, Pleasure of Love & Basic Fingers.

We are so stoked to have them join us here for their first release on Sosilly and our seventh vinyl release SSE007… Like Bond they delivered nothing short of pure class! 4 x absolute fire cuts that can turn any place upside down.