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The sunshine of Andalucía has come to the Bordello. The musical magpie that is Daniel Monaco arrives with just a hint of a Spanish accent and a daring record under his arm. Known for finding the intersections of boogie, disco, italo and house, Monaco is going that bit further with Manuel Rodriguez for the Flamenca EP. Melting the percussive drive of his machines with the spirit of Southern Spain, the four tracks on offer are a journey into a sound and style that is inspiringly original. Ruffled hi-hats and smooth basslines are the foundation for the title piece. The soul of the Sierra Nevada and the warmth of Granada pour forth through Rodriguez’s unparalleled performance. The claps of Chicago are reimagined as an interplay of melody and rhythm awakens; the traditions of Flamenco married with a modern groove. Talent and technique are coupled with pure passion in the intense instrumentation of “Fantasia” before the flip shifts with “Sìnteme.” The culture of Italy and Spain combine, taut string plucks peppered in handclaps before the Only Bee’s vocals descend. Ardent, the lyrics tell of our shared humanity through the dialect of Ischitella from the southern tip of Italy. The homes of our musicians are the inspiration for the finale. Blending the decadent splendour of Napoli with the old-world romance of Granada, Rodriguez’s guitar is the focus of “Granapoli.” Bitter-sweet, blissful and sorrowful, a lone beat wandering through the winding melody that twins these great cities. From Italy and Andalucía to Amsterdam, a 12” like few others.

NYC's Sweater on Polo follows up his acclaimed L.I.E.S. 12 inch from 2023 with debut full length double LP, "Almighty Grand Essence" This is pure to form 1985-1988 Chicago House worship, and while many have attempted to recreate this sound, most fail to deliver with correct reverence. Names like Saunders, Mixx, Virgo Four, undoubtedly appear in this conversation with Sweater on Polo taking cues and transforming the vintage sound into re-imagined dancefloor classics. Raw but clean, psychedelic but functional...this nine track record can move the crowd in all the right ways, with the lush deepness of "The Creation" to the nu-wave-house hybrid of "Proto Wave" or BMX beat track closer Psychotic Seance, its rare to find a young producer tapping into the vaults in such a focused, effective manner. Highly recommended to house heads worldwide.

Originally released in 1994, MSD - Moonboom is a true cornerstone of Irish dance music and one of the defining dancefloor anthems of the '90s. Fusing Techno, Progressive House and raw 303 energy, it became a staple on floors across Ireland and beyond, a track whose power has only grown with time. Now beautifully remastered and repressed on the newly launched CeltTribe label, Moonboom returns sounding bigger and sharper than ever. Created by Fintan McDonald alongside Dublin DJ Liam Dollard, with Paul Clifford and Peter Coss present during the original mixdown, the track was produced on a Tac Scorpion desk using Akai S1000 and S950 samplers, capturing the raw, hardware-driven spirit of early '90s dance music. Originally released on the Inner Conscience label, this reissue celebrates Ireland's underground dance heritage and is expanded with a strong set of 2026 remixes. The "Love Will Save the Day" Remix delivers a piano-led '90s House groove with nods to New York and Chicago, reflecting the deep Irish house sound loved in Cork and Waterford. The Lanzatech Remix is a tribal, acid-fuelled slammer driven by reworked piano, 303 lines and Detroit-inspired synth pads. Collie's "Midnight" Dub dives deeper into jazzy, hypnotic territory, while Ian's Techno Mix pushes Moonboom into darker, harder underground space with reimagined piano and vocals. A timeless Irish classic, respectfully reimagined!

LLL is back and this time on the properly sized up "HELLLINN EP" full of unhinged and deliberate, off the wall acidic mutant house. Caustic synth lines and furious electro sludge made to ooze out of club speakers. This 4 track EP strikes with intense Chicago club tracks with savage synths.

His next 7" from southern Italy's GIOVANNI DAMICO cements his reputation as a honorary Chicago native. "THE POWER" b/w "ANALOG SESSION" is a perfect blend of tracky Italo early drum machine bang the box type of proto house electro soul. Released on 7" with a pic sleeve on

The only album by Descendants Of Mike and Phoebe, a family band made up of Bill Lee and his brothers, who are also known as the father of Spike Lee, the director of films such as 'Crooklyn' and 'Do The Right Thing'. A Sprit Speaks. The great song 'Coltrane' by Bill Lee, also famous for his performance of Clifford Jordan, is a miraculous balance of dignified and beautiful piano tones and a heavy waltz beat. M3 'Chick Chick', which seems to have been dedicated to Chick Corea, is an up-tempo, fast-moving song. From there to the last track, 'Too Little, Too Late', a beautiful, tear-jerking piece that conveys the depth and greatness of 70s spiritual jazz!

Some big names feature on the second volume of ENSOULED's 'Freedom, Innovation, Resonance' series, and they serve up suitably profound sounds. Dutch mainstay Orlando Voorn gets the hairs standing on end with his 'Deeper', a sumptuous blend of soft synths, undulating rhythms and spiritual keys. The Cee ElAssaad remix has still soft edges but a little more upright groove, and then Chicago legend Boo Williams cranks it up further with his loopy, melodically intense 'Loose Cannon'. Lastly, Nawfel's 'Fight Or Flight' is a textural deep house affair with mechanical, rigid rhythms softened by the lush pads. It echoes greats like Omar S and Theo Parrish and closes in style.

ANiML comprises accomplished and storied electronic artists. Their Stratasonic label has become a respected home for their freeform musical explorations, with no genre restrictions. They often call on friends and influential pioneers to collaborate on releases, and the originals they produce are defined by improvisation, creative songwriting, and intentional collisions of different moods and grooves.

'Unioness' is a tender but crisp late-night sound. Soft, jazzy melodies drift over orchestral swells with drum breaks cascading below. Abstracted vocals and serene strings further enrich this sophisticated sound, which draws on soundtracks and instrumental soul groups.

Stoned Autopilot is an alias of long-time studio magician Martin Buttrich, who is also part of Better Lost Than Stupid and has a fulsome catalogue on many of the scene's most recognisable labels. His dub rides smooth waves with aching vocals melting into the mix, and the melodies looped, smudged, and smeared in hypnotic fashion.

The second rework comes from DJ Sneak, the hugely prolific and consistent Chicago house innovator whose famously raw, tracky sound keeps him in a class of one. His fantastic Big Bawse Re-Rub brings a rolling four-four groove, a delicate sprinkling of percussion, and a loopy rhythm that locks you in and zones you out as curious melodies unfurl up top.

The mysterious artist behind the alias Your Ex returns after a self-released EP in 2025 and a deep house killer 7-inch on Scruniversal Records in 2023. Now joining Vibes And Pepper Records, Your Ex opens 2026 with a five-track EP that channels a European twist on Chicago deep house—warm basslines, soulful chords, and hypnotic percussion layered with emotional depth and a timeless groove. Drawing inspiration from Jazz, Funk, Fusion, Library Music, Dub, and “out there” Electronic sounds, Your Exalso draws deeply from the foundational vibrations of Chicago and Detroit. These influences flow through every track—lush harmonies, intricate rhythms, and raw analog textures that bridge eras and styles. Staying true to an elusive identity, Your Ex lets the music speak: smoky late-night grooves, dusty hardware tones, and an undeniable sense of movement that nods to the roots while pushing forward. With Vibes And Pepper, the artist continues to blur the line between mystery and motion—a perfect start to the new year for those who still believe in the deep.

Laseech, a Croatian producer and Cosada label owner with releases on BBE, Lumberjacks In Hell, Red Ember Records, and Forbidden Dance, is continuing a string of excellent releases with Rising Soul. Known for his dedication to house music, Laseech has built an international reputation through collaborations and remixes with some of the genre's most respected architects, including Ron Trent, Patrice Scott, Javonntte, and Dego. "Rising Soul is actually one of the first tracks I did back in 2017 while I was heavily into sampling. I was jamming with my MPC1000, and Rising Soul came up. I never thought that it would become such an effective song that works on the dancefloor every time." Laseech explains. Kez YM, a highly respected Japanese producer and DJ, has been a key figure in the global house music scene for almost two decades. Originally from Chiba and now based in Berlin, his unique approach to house music has led to releases on esteemed labels such as City Fly, Faces Records, Yore, and 4Lux. When describing his version of the track, Kez simply stated: "VIBES." Well, no one will argue with that. The last version comes from Cycle Records' founder Jan Kincl, a prominent Croatian music producer and DJ with releases on labels like BBE, Far Out, Sonar Kollektiv, and Get Physical. "I've been playing Andrej's original for years. He undoubtedly made some good stuff recently, but this one remains among my firm favourites from him. Kez delivered a beautiful version that took it further towards jazz territory, so I decided to make a version that would bridge those two." Jan explains. "I knew we could build a very good record around Rising Soul, with versions that would give DJs different options for different moments during the party. I guess we did a good job because some of the early supporters include DJs from all over the place - Laurent Garnier, Alex Barck from Jazzanova, Marcel Dettmann, Alex Nut (Eglo), Sasse, Chicago's K' Alexi Shelby, Lakuti, Ian Friday and Truncate, among others.

Following the success of his recent releases, Mendekua and Electro Bloody Music, Barro’s honcho Nöle demonstrates that he is at one of his creative peaks with this new four-track EP.

The fortunate owners of reference number thirteen will not only take home a substantial slice of vinyl but also a powerful teleportation device that will instantly send them to the dance floor. Demencial chico acelerado features four tracks of techno infused with elements of industrial and EBM, as dark as it gets.

The EP kicks off with the enigmatic “IDDDQD,” a complex industrial techno track packed with sharp synths, devastating basslines, and an incredible punch.

“Lemmy Dust” comes next showing no mercy from the moment that the powerful kick hits, captivating you with its hypnotic sound and not letting go until you’re exhausted.

Cinematic as its name suggests, “Xenomorph” is a claustrophobic industrial techno powerhouse, brimming with intense EBM nuances that are both unsettling and frenetic—perfect for dancing with your hair standing on end.

Last but not least, “Ghost Dancer,” is one of the most purely techno tracks, showcasing haunting synths mid-way through. It’s heavy material fit for the dance floor.

Without a doubt, this demencial accelerated kid knows exactly what he’s doing.

The above references have already been supported by artists such as Dave Clarke, Phase Fatale, The Hacker, Lokier, NX1, Unhuman, Alienata, Reka, and many more.

Text by : El Garaje de Frank

We're excited to announce 2 stone cold classics from Theo Parrish on Peacefrog - First Floor Part 1 and First Floor Part 2.

Originally released in 1998 "First Floor” is Detroit/Chicago auteur Theo Parrish’s debut album. Released on vinyl in two parts for maximum playability; the raw bluesy, soulful offbeat grooves have long since buried themselves deep under the skin of the house community.
Showcasing Theo’s innovative use of drum programming and effects its uniquely loose but taut knit of minimalist elements worked to maximal, hypnotic effect have solidified its reputation as a contemporary classic and served as a corner stone for Theo’s truly legendary status.
"First Floor” is one of those albums that has transcended generic borders to influence heads of all stripes with its unmistakable soul-nuzzling texture and groove. Essential.

Uncompromising 2 tracker from the duo FLML, recorded live in their studio through the use of analog synthesizers and drum machine. Both tracks draw influences from early Detroit techno and Chicago acid, moving towards wild trippy and gloomy sonic palette. Vinyl is recommended for the powerful 12″ 45rpm experience. Limited to 150 copies.

Maurice “Mobetta” Brown has always thrived at the crossroads—between jazz and hip-hop, improvisation and songcraft, trumpet and microphone. With Betta Days, the Grammy-winning trumpeter, composer, and MC sharpens his genre-bending vision into one of his most dynamic statements yet.

The album plays like a conversation between worlds: lush horn arrangements sit beside hard-hitting beats, verses weave seamlessly through melodies, and Brown’s trumpet leads with equal parts fire and finesse. A student of jazz tradition who came up in Chicago’s storied scene, he’s since expanded his reach into hip-hop and soul, collaborating with icons like Aretha Franklin, Santigold, Talib Kweli, and Anderson .Paak. Betta Days captures the spirit of all those influences while standing firmly in Mobetta’s lane.

At its core, Betta Days is about resilience and growth—finding light even in heavy times. The songs carry a message of pushing forward, fuelled by the energy of community and the joy of creation. Whether he’s delivering sharp verses or soaring trumpet lines, Maurice Mobetta Brown reminds listeners that the future is wide open, and that better (or Betta) days are always ahead.

Large Music is proud to announce the highly anticipated reissue of the iconic collaboration between Roy Davis Jr. and Jay Juniel: Transitions. Originally released in 1997, this seminal piece of Chicago house music has been remastered and is set to return to the world with the same raw energy and grit that made it a classic in the late '90s.

Coming on the heels of Roy Davis Jr.’s legendary hit Gabriel, Transitions captures the raw, emotional intensity of Chicago's underground house scene. Blending soulful melodies with thumping basslines, the EP brought forth an undeniable sound that resonated with house music fans globally. A testament to Davis’s versatile talent, Transitions also introduced Jay Juniel, who contributed his own dynamic flair to the project, creating a distinctive fusion of deep, experimental rhythms, intelligent spoken words and a vibrant club-ready pulse.

The reissue of Transitions offers fans both the original tracks and newly remastered audio to further elevate the listening experience. The gritty, hard-hitting vibe that defined the late '90s Chicago house movement is unmistakably present, from its throbbing basslines and kick drum to the smooth, haunting melodies. This release not only pays tribute to the timeless influence of Chicago House but also serves as a reflection of the ever-evolving nature of the genre itself.

With Stronger, her third EP, Mira Ló continues her rapid ascent within the French electronic scene. A cathartic project born from a period of personal upheaval, this EP is both a cry of resilience and a celebration of club culture as a space for healing. The Paris-based queer producer and DJ turns pain into creative force, and the dancefloor into refuge, release, and rebirth. Across four emotionally charged tracks, Stronger traces the contours of a club where one rises through the energy of the beat, the warmth of a caring community, and the affirmation of self through sound and movement. “This EP is my response to a very dark period in my life. I chose to turn pain into strength, to stand back up through music, and to reconnect with joy, intensity, and the collective. Each track follows a movement, of a body rising, a heart beating stronger, a soul regaining its light. Stronger is also a tribute to those who carried me when I could no longer stand on my own. It's proof that even in chaos, we can rebuild together.” Mira Ló The first chapter of this inner journey, “Riser” is a house track filled with enveloping melodies, ethereal pads, and organic chords that create a suspended sonic space. Its steady pulse and warm basslines evoke a rising from within. “I wanted this track to feel like a build-up, like breathing again. It's about that moment when you feel you're ready to rise once more, even after a fall, like a gentle but powerful wave,” says Mira Ló. With its R&B textures, pop-infused touches, and radiant production, “Brighter” glows with warmth. It captures the return of inner clarity, the rediscovery of joy and ease. Made to bring people together, it’s Instagram | Youtube | TikTok | SoundCloudboth immediate and heartfelt. “It’s a song about shining again, after the dark. I wanted something full of light and simplicity, a track that speaks to the heart and makes you want to dance without thinking.” A personal and introspective nod to the French Touch, “Higher” is driven by filtered basslines and hypnotic grooves. It channels a sense of euphoria that builds gradually, almost meditatively, like a joyful vertigo. “This track is about finding euphoria again, that moment when music lifts you beyond yourself. I grew up with the French Touch, and this is my way of coming back to it with my own voice.” Closing the journey, “Louder” is the most assertive track on the EP. Inspired by the UK bassline and garage scene, it bursts with percussive, punchy energy. This is where everything comes into full light, bold, unapologetic, and free. “I wrote Louder as a statement: I’m here, I exist, and I won’t stay silent anymore. It’s about partying as self-affirmation, as a joyful, powerful scream of identity. Meant to be played loud. Very loud.” Mira Ló, born Ana Lopez, is a queer producer and DJ based in Paris. Drawing from the full spectrum of club music, her sets and productions blend melancholic emotion with a unique, high-energy, euphoric touch - inspired by artists like Disclosure, salute, and Sammy Virji. From her early days playing in Parisian bars and intimate clubs, she quickly rose to the lineups of top French venues and festivals such as Peacock Society, Marvellous Island, and Lollapalooza - extending her reach across Europe and even to Chicago. She’s carved out a strong place for herself within the new wave of the French electronic scene, leaving a lasting impression with every appearance. In 2023, she released her debut EP Memories and was featured in Apple Music’s “Women In Electronic” series. That same year, she became a resident at Sacré in Paris, before unveiling her second EP Tribute To Chicago in 2024. She returns in 2025 with her third release, Stronger - once again proving she’s one of the most promising artists shaping the future of electronic music.

Chicago producer Ellery Cowles lands on Apnea Records with three tracks that draw from the city's foundational rhythms while reaching for something more devotional. Walking by Faith isn't chasing nostalgia--it's after deeper ground. "Fall of Jericho" kicks things off with syncopated Chicago swing colliding with latin percussion and acid basslines that curl and bite in equal measure. "Fly" builds around a looped vocal fragment, letting raw drum patterns stretch and breathe as the track slowly reveals itself. Closer "Crying of Yahweh" is the most patient of the three--seven minutes of hypnotic techno coiling around latin rhythms, carrying a quiet spiritual weight that lingers long after it fades. Cowles moves between reference points with ease--Chicago house, devotional threads, latin heat--but never forces the connection. The music feels like it's been lived in rather than simply constructed, generous with its time and intentional with its space. Out now on Apnea Records.

Abacus - The Relics E.P. - A Deep-House Masterpiece from 1994 Re-Released Somewhere around 1993 or '94, a quietly profound landmark in deep house emerged: The Relics E.P. by Austin Bascom, better known as Abacus, originally released on Chicago's Prescription Records (catalogue #006). With four tracks spanning roughly 26 minutes, this record has since gained cult status among DJs, collectors, and aficionados of the deeper, more soulful yet futuristic side of house music. Abacus crafted a quintessential deep-house journey: warm grooves, lush textures, scorched sub-bass, and a deeply introspective futuristic atmosphere. Bascom produced a record that never chased trends, but instead quietly built a lasting legacy. This record remained rare and highly sought after. In an era when house music was splintering into countless directions - even reaching the pop charts - The Relics E.P. planted its flag firmly in the underground, soulful terrain. Collectors and DJs continue to cite it as essential deep house, often describing it as ''one of the finest deep-house records of all time.'' Its scarcity and enduring emotional pull have only strengthened its legend. Decades on, The Relics E.P. continues to surface in DJ mixes and playlists, and as a touchstone for producers seeking that timeless balance of groove and emotion. Now, three Decades later, Clone Classic Cuts is proud to present a fully remastered edition of The Relics E.P., including previously unreleased material from the same recording sessions. Pressed on 140-gram virgin black vinyl, this edition restores and elevates a true cornerstone of deep-house history.

We're excited to announce 2 stone cold classics from Theo Parrish on Peacefrog - First Floor Part 1 and First Floor Part 2.

Originally released in 1998 "First Floor” is Detroit/Chicago auteur Theo Parrish’s debut album. Released on vinyl in two parts for maximum playability; the raw bluesy, soulful offbeat grooves have long since buried themselves deep under the skin of the house community.
Showcasing Theo’s innovative use of drum programming and effects its uniquely loose but taut knit of minimalist elements worked to maximal, hypnotic effect have solidified its reputation as a contemporary classic and served as a corner stone for Theo’s truly legendary status.
"First Floor” is one of those albums that has transcended generic borders to influence heads of all stripes with its unmistakable soul-nuzzling texture and groove. Essential.

For its 25th anniversary, Cocoon Recordings returns to its roots with an elaborate vinyl LP box set, marking the first part of a two-volume anniversary project. 25 Years Cocoon Recordings – Volume
One brings together exclusive contributions from international artists who have defined the sound and diversity of the label over the past two decades, complemented by fresh talents who are helping to shape its future.
Over the span of 25 years, Cocoon Recordings has created a catalog that now comprises hundreds of releases, 12-inches, albums, mix CDs, and iconic compilation box sets, always bridging past, present, and future. While firmly rooted in techno and house, the label has also provided space for electronica,
ambient, and other evolving genres.
25 Years Cocoon Recordings – Volume One is more than just a compilation. It is both a homage to the label’s history and a glimpse into what lies ahead. With exclusive tracks that embody the Cocoon sound in all its depth and complexity, this release marks a milestone in the legacy of one of electronic
music’s most influential labels, arguably the strongest compilation in Cocoon’s history. To mark this special occasion, Sven Väth’s label presents the first of two carefully curated volumes, uniting 15 exclusive tracks from international artists in celebration of nearly three decades of Cocoon
Recordings. The luxurious 5x12" box set features a spectral-reflective foil finish and includes contributions from renowned names such as Butch, Robag Wruhme, Josh Wink, Guy J, and Dino Lenny, alongside longtime companions of the label including Extrawelt, Harvey McKay, Johannes
Volk, and Raxon. New discoveries of recent years, Jonathan Kaspar and Riccardo De Polo, enrich the release in their own distinctive ways. The compilation is completed by the unmistakable talents of Damiano von Erckert, Fedele, and ja:ck, who provide the perfect conclusion to the first of two parts.
This release sets the stage for what's next: a daring diptych where musical voices emerge, shining with originality and passion, carrying the spirit forward. The story is just beginning. Something special is on the horizon. One can only wonder which artists will shine on the second chapter.

Mit Tove Lo kehrt eine der prägendsten Stimmen des internationalen Pop zurück: Die preisgekrönte Künstlerin und Grammy-nominierte Songwriterin steht für kompromisslos ehrlichen, emotional aufgeladenen Pop zwischen Grunge-Einflüssen und skandinavischer Klangästhetik. Spätestens mit ihrem Multi-Platin-Hit „Habits (Stay High)“ etablierte sie ihren unverfälschten, direkten Stil, der sich durch ihre gesamte Diskografie zieht.

Nun präsentiert sie mit „ESTRUS“ ihr sechstes Studioalbum: ein kraftvolles, stilprägendes Werk zwischen Euphorie und Melancholie, Verlangen und Zweifel. Auf 13 neuen Tracks verbindet Tove Lo pulsierende, körperbetonte Produktionen mit pointierten, persönlichen Texten und fängt so die ganze Bandbreite menschlicher Emotionen ein – roh, intensiv und ungefiltert.
Thematisch steht das Album für Selbstbefreiung und Individualität, visuell untermalt von einer düsteren, kultähnlichen Ästhetik mit emo-chic Einflüssen. „ESTRUS“ ist ein starkes Statement für alle, die Pop mit Haltung, Tiefgang und internationalem Hitpotenzial suchen.


Vinyl in Gatefold Jacket with Printed Inner Sleeves, 8x12 Matte Photo Insert and 12x12 Lyric Insert

Mit Tove Lo kehrt eine der prägendsten Stimmen des internationalen Pop zurück: Die preisgekrönte Künstlerin und Grammy-nominierte Songwriterin steht für kompromisslos ehrlichen, emotional aufgeladenen Pop zwischen Grunge-Einflüssen und skandinavischer Klangästhetik. Spätestens mit ihrem Multi-Platin-Hit „Habits (Stay High)“ etablierte sie ihren unverfälschten, direkten Stil, der sich durch ihre gesamte Diskografie zieht.

Nun präsentiert sie mit „ESTRUS“ ihr sechstes Studioalbum: ein kraftvolles, stilprägendes Werk zwischen Euphorie und Melancholie, Verlangen und Zweifel. Auf 13 neuen Tracks verbindet Tove Lo pulsierende, körperbetonte Produktionen mit pointierten, persönlichen Texten und fängt so die ganze Bandbreite menschlicher Emotionen ein – roh, intensiv und ungefiltert.
Thematisch steht das Album für Selbstbefreiung und Individualität, visuell untermalt von einer düsteren, kultähnlichen Ästhetik mit emo-chic Einflüssen. „ESTRUS“ ist ein starkes Statement für alle, die Pop mit Haltung, Tiefgang und internationalem Hitpotenzial suchen.


Vinyl in Gatefold Jacket with Printed Inner Sleeves, 8x12 Matte Photo Insert and 12x12 Lyric Insert

Warehouse Find

Massiande has become one of the most captivating talents South America has produced for authentic House music.
An artist of multicultural roots, he was born in 1988 in Santiago, Chile, has lived most of his life to the side of US American people, has Dutch family heritage and his name derives from a Sierra Leone dialect. All of these global influences have had a great effect in the way he perceives and lives music.
Growing up as a profound and dedicated fan of Soul, Jazz and Disco; discovering House, a genre that connected these genres' roots with electronic experimentation, was a life turning point.
DJing since 2007, he is known for performing emotive and dynamic sets, with a moving soulful drive that resembles much of the spirit of New York, Chicago and Detroit pioneers.
After starting to focus on music production, 2013 brought his debut record "Heart Rushed Love" through German label Housewax, a record of classic vibes that received praise for its charm and character on underground scenes worldwide and, most notably, from House music artists in Chicago, including his personal hero, House maestro Larry Heard. Such a start would be a sign of great things to come.
Inspired by the same Chicago spirit, in 2015 the release of "Stand", through the prestigious MOS Recordings, represented a step further in his career as a producer, finding its place on the crates of DJs as diverse as Patrice Scott, Voiski, Apparat or Honey Soundsystem.
These days, Massiande brings a deeper and mature House sound which is reaching a wider audience, with his conceptual "Freedom" EP through UK's Phonica Records and the landmark "Yesterday, Today, Forever" EP on Jimpster's Freerange, while also revealing a consistent variety of skills on a fully dancefloor-oriented EP for Hercules & Love Affair's Mr. Intl imprint.
With a growing discography whose flair endures the test of time, Massiande's path thrives with a true passion for House that's appealing to both casual listeners and the most loyal purists of the genre around the world.

Daybreakers return with another one for the deep heads, welcoming Chicago legend Vick Lavender to the fold for Essential Traxx Vol. 1. A musician, producer and DJ with over three decades in the game, Vick’s music lives in that space where house, jazz, and soul connect.

Back in the 90s, Vick came up alongside Glenn Underground and Boo Williams as part of the influential Strictly Jaz Unit, helping shape a sound that still echoes through dancefloors today. In the years since, he’s built his own world through Sophisticado — music rooted in live musicianship, deep feeling, and that unmistakable Chicago soul. It’s real house music.

On the A side, 1.4.4.5 (Where It Started) lays down that signature Chicago pulse — rolling percussion, Rhodes chords, and basslines that unfold like a live jam. Deep, patient, the real Vick Lavender sound.

Flip it for Tiano Nuevo featuring Spike Rebel, a lush meeting of house, Latin, and jazz sensibilities. Guitars, percussion, and keys come together, the kind of tune that keeps a dark room or a sunrise session dancing.

Essential Traxx Vol. 1 captures what Daybreakers is all about. Deeper than deep house.
Buy or cry

Veteran DJ, producer and Kyiv's K41 booker Christoph Faust showcases the diversity of House music across four tracks. From tech house to clicky minimal, mysterious deep house, and classic Chicago style, "The Window Upstairs" has it all.
On the B-side, there's a surprise remix by Berghain regular and Room Trax co-founder BLANKA, adding a dubby tech housetwist.

Unreleased Marcus Mixx session, recorded in 1988 at Head Studios in Chicago.

Another DINTE tape curated by cult WFMU show and blogger Bodega Pop; Gary Sullivan's long-running project rooted in a passion for digging for music in bodegas and cell-phone stores across NYC's boroughs. This edition focuses in on late 1990s and early 00s hip-hop & rnb from across Southeastern Asia.

"While on a work trip to Chicago in the mid-2000s, I was craving a bowl of pho. A bit of sleuthing led me to hop on the red line "L" up to Argyle Street, ground zero of Chicago's Little Saigon. In the 1960s, Chicago restaurateur Jimmy Wong invested in property on Argyle Street with a vision to build the city's new Chinatown, a kind of mall with pagodas, trees, and reflecting pools. In 1971, the Hip Sing Association, a labor/criminal organization, established itself in the area, and along with Wong, they bought up 80% of the buildings on a three-block stretch of the street. Wong reportedly broke both hips in an accident, leaving his dream to wither; in 1979, Charlie Soo of the Asian American Small Business Association brought it back to life.

Soo expanded the area into a vibrant mix of Chinese, Vietnamese, and other Southeast Asian businesses, pushing for renovations, including an Argyle station facelift and the Taste of Argyle festival. At the time I exited the station and crossed the street to get a better look at a shop with a poster for A Vertical Ray of the Sun in the window, the area was home to some 37,000 Vietnamese residents.

Opening the door, I was gobsmacked by a cavernous Southeast Asian media store, bigger than any I'd been to in Dallas, Montreal, New York, or Seattle. I spent some time at the bins, pulling out collections by some of my then-favorite singers — Giao Linh, Khánh Ly, Phương Dung — before approaching the register to ask the young woman behind the counter if the they carried any Vietnamese rap. It was a longshot, I knew, but if such a thing existed on physical media and anyone carried it, it would be this place.

'Have you heard Vietnamese rap?' she replied, her tone of voice and facial expression betraying a comically exaggerated level of distaste. I admitted my ignorance but assured her that I had long cultivated a high threshold for cheesy pop music of all kinds and genuinely tended to like hip hop from around the world.

She rolled her eyes and pointed to an area I had missed. I walked toward a far corner of the store and knelt over a small box on the floor sparsely populated with CDs, VCDs, and cassettes. I pulled out half a dozen Vietnamese hip hop compilations and a strange-looking CD with a cavalcade of odd typefaces in a queasy multitude of colors: THAILAND RAP HIT, it boasted, with 泰國 "燒香" 勁歌金曲 below it. The information on the back provided an address in Kuala Lumpur and the titles in Thai and English translation. The first track included three simplified Chinese characters after the English-language version of the title, "The Chinese Association": 自己人.

WTF was going on here? Walking back to the register, I waved the CD, asking "What's up with this one?" She gave me a look. I placed it on the counter so she could bask in the cover's full glory. She shrugged. "I'm guessing it's Thai rap?" She looked disappointed in me when I said I'd take it.

It turned out to be a Malaysian pressing of half-Chinese Thai hip hop artist Joey Boy's third album, Fun Fun Fun from 1996, and it completely changed my sense what the genre could sound like. The rapper's self-assured, effortless, silly-but-cool rapid-fire delivery weaved in and out of the most bizarre, antic beats I'd ever heard. The six Vietnamese hip hop CDs were a mixed bag, mostly "serious" sounding mimicry of US rapping over predictable production, but the highs were very high. When I got home and listened to it all, I made a point to find as much hip hop from this part of the world as I could.

The tracks collected here provide a limited but potent reflection of the two-decade ascendency
and ultimate world-takeover of hip hop, as it displaced rock and its endless variants for millions of listeners. This not a fair and balanced overview of regional production: I've only included tracks from Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. Nor is this a biggest or most important artists collection; instead, I've tried to recapture the pure visceral thrill of that first time I heard Joey Boy, choosing bangers that sound like nothing else, from nowhere else."

—Gary Sullivan

A collaboration between THE FUNKIN' MACHINE and Chicago's STARCREATURE RECORDS. This 6 track LP features full color art and cuts from cosmic disco to mediterranean boogie. THE FUNKIN' MACHINE specializes in sparkling and groovy funky sounds from the slopes of Vesuvius.After a sold-out 7", KIBBI GIBBONS returns with an album's worth of smooth of smooth, spaced-out, jazz-funk delights. Their debut LP is 7 tracks of deep house/acid jazz instrumentals that land you between an Ibizan beach and a liminal Mario Kart character selection screen. Limited to 300 copies.

Limited Edition Transparent Black Vinyl Version - 500 Units Only

There are few people across the globe, who will have not been touched by the work of Frankie Knuckles. Forever regarded as ‘The Godfather of House’ for his unrivalled contribution to the house music we know today; what started as an underground movement in Chicago has grown to international heights thanks to Frankie. His records earned him recognition on a global scale, allowing him to work with some of the globes biggest names including the likes of Diana Ross, Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson.

Five years ago, Frankie passed away in Chicago on 31st March 2014 leaving behind one of the greatest house music legacies spanning almost four decades. Now he is commemorated by long time writing and production partner Eric Kupper. Eric, himself a seasoned DJ producer and writer, has worked on over 116 Billboard #1 Dance Records and played a pivotal role in a many of Frankie’s productions. Having both worked together for many years they established themselves at ‘Director’s Cut’ from 2011 and set about producing original releases and remixes based on the classic ‘Def Mix’ sound while sharing equal credits for their creations.

Together they re-produced and re-purpose classic cuts for modern dancefloors, with reworks including tracks from Marshall Jefferson, Ashford & Simpson, Artful & Ridney and The Sunburst Band, alongside Frankie Knuckles originals. These releases have now been brought together by Eric to feature on special album called ‘The Directors Cut Collection’ on SoSure Music. It includes the Director’s Cut reworks of Frankie’s classic cuts such as ‘Your Love’ and ‘Take You There’ with Jamie Principle, alongside Frankie’s first #1 single - ‘The Whistle Song’ on which Eric shares writing credits.

Within a multitude of classic reworks, highlights include a previously unreleased version of Ashford & Simpson’s ‘Bourgie Bourgie’ and a huge Director’s Cut Retro Signature mix of Marshall Jefferson’s The House Music Anthem (Move Your Body) featuring Curtis McClain.

The Director’s Cut Collection is a fitting tribute to commemorate the fifth anniversary of Frankie’s passing whilst giving Eric a platform to tell his side of the creative story. This album is to be released in collaboration with The Frankie Knuckles Foundation who work to continuing Frankie’s legacy well into the future.

Recorded in the wake of Dr. King's assassination, this 1969 single from Mississippi-born, Chicago-raised Syl Johnson stands as one of the starkest and most soul-wrenching protest songs ever committed to tape. Built around a slow, smouldering groove and the raw ache of Johnson's vocal, 'Is It Because I'm Black' is less a call to arms than a question hung in the air-resigned, frustrated, defiant. The Pieces of Peace deliver a restrained but deeply felt arrangement: skeletal drums, moody bass, mournful horns, all circling Johnson's voice like a sermon in minor key. What could feel like despair instead pulses with something tougher-dignity, clarity, and a refusal to shut up. The record would later be sampled by Wu-Tang and reinterpreted in Jamaica, but nothing quite matches the grit and sorrow of the original. A landmark in American soul music, whispered more than shouted.

From the heart of Tamanrasset in South Algeria, Imarhan transcend Tuareg tradition, weaving hypnotic synths into desert blues. The result is a timeless work—deeply respectful of their roots, yet alive with a stirring sense of modernity.

ESSAM is the band’s fourth album, recorded with the same core lineup, but marks a significant shift in their sound and approach. Musically, it marks a departure from the rocky, bluesy, psychedelic Tuareg guitar-driven sound influenced by Tinariwen’s heritage — moving toward something more open, modern, and exploratory.
For the first time, their long-time sound engineer Maxime Kosinetz stepped in as producer. He travelled to Tamanrasset with Emile Papandreou (of the French duo UTO), a multi-instrumentalist who introduced electronic elements by sampling live instruments and reprocessing them in real time with a modular synthesizer — subtly reshaping the band's sonic identity.
The album was recorded mostly live, in one big room at Aboogi Studio — the band’s own rehearsal and recording space in Tamanrasset. The studio, a converted concert hall, has become a kind of cultural hub for the local youth. Friends dropped by during the sessions to contribute handclaps, vocals, and just be part of the energy. It’s a space where people gather, hang out, play dominoes, smoke chicha — a rare communal spot in a city that doesn’t offer many for young people, somewhat like a youth and community center.
This context — the creative shift, the live recording process, the atmosphere around Aboogi — might be interesting threads to explore in the conversation.

Chapter two for Small Edits featuring Chicago edit master Rahaan!

LTD Edition Clear Vinyl Version

Arguably one of the most memorable house music moments, born out of the black LGBT scene in Chicago at the legendary Warehouse and known as one of Frankie Knuckles earliest productions; ‘Your Love’ is a stone cold classic. A record that is up there with the greats, instantly recognisable and a song that only get better with time.

Written by Jamie Principle and originally released in 1986, ‘Your Love’ has become a seminal recording over the past 34 years. Originally an underground club anthem, famously borrowed on the crossover hit ‘You’ve Got The Love’ (The Source feat. Candi Staton), and most recently re-produced by as part of the Director’s Cut project which aimed to update a number of classic cuts for the modern dancefloor, this is a record that endures the test of time. Working alongside The Frankie Knuckles Foundation and Eric Kupper, SoSure Music now releases two new remixes for 2020 from Darrius Syrossian and Alan Dixon.

First up, House music aficionado and legendary Sankey’s resident Darius Syrossian offers his unique blend of beats to the remix package. With releases on the likes of Get Physical, Viva Music and Hot Creations, Darius’ production is heavily influenced by some of the greats – think of the finest spinners from Detroit, New York and Chicago – and is well placed to approach this huge task. Darius introduces a rolling house beat and some old skool breakbeats into his mix, keeping the energy high throughout; bringing a feeling of a euphoria and hitting the peak time moment.

Charting a rapid rise through the ranks in a relatively short time Alan Dixon is already building a name for himself in House and Nu Disco scene and has recently released on labels including Glitterbox, Permanent Vacation, Running Back and True Romance. Alan’s remix aims directly at the centre of the disco dancefloor. A strong beat dominates a unique energy through the mix along with a slightly nostalgic vibe. With a beautiful floaty interlude and a raw emotion this remix updates a classic with respect while also giving a fresh new twist.

Follow up to last years 12" on Voyage Direct from this active Amsterdam DJ/Producer. TIP!
.
" Back in December 2014, Elias Mazian debuted on Voyage Direct with a 12' that perfectly encapsulated his open-minded but interconnected approach to electronic music. He'd already showcased this ability to blend sounds and styles by becoming one of the most talked-about DJs on the Amsterdam scene. With Future Times' (and its superb flipside, They Don't Know'), Mazian gave notice of his undeniable production credentials.

Fast forward to the summer of 2017, and Mazian is ready to drop an EP that not only confirms his status as a rising star of Dutch dance music, but also showcases a newfound ability to combine a finely-tuned sense of what works on the dancefloor with the kind of compositional skills that can take a lifetime to perfect.

The Duplicate EP is an altogether more mature proposition than his debut 12', but retains many of the sounds and influences that marked out his first appearance on Voyage Direct - not least his love of spacey electronics, mood-enhancing chord progressions and sparkling synthesizer motifs.

This can be heard in particular on the title track, an ear-catching club jam that wraps chiming melodies, Mazian's own rapped vocal refrains and electro-era synths around a gently jacking, Chicago style house groove. It's deep, poignant and attractive, with subtle nods to the dreamy Windy City deep house of Larry Heard, the retro-futurist boogie business of Moon B and Dam Funk, and the kaleidoscopic electronic funk of Parliament.

Further proof of Mazian's increased musical maturity can be heard in the breathtaking Dream Mix' of Duplicate'. Featuring a yearning, almost melancholic vocal from the producer himself, the remix offers an analogue style deep house interpretation bristling with cascading melody lines, classic Chicago house bass and bubbly, deep space electronics.

The EP closes with superb bonus cut Ride That Shit Baby', an expansive chunk of mind-altering analogue deep house full of restless ride cymbals, crunchy drum machine hits, starburst electronics, delay-laden organ lines and swirling chord progressions. It's as intricately programmed and produced as anything Mazian has released to date, and twice as emotion-rich. In some ways, it's the perfect end to an EP in which Mazian brilliantly showcases the depth and breadth of his emerging talent."

Efde's first release on Voyage Direct. Here he gets a chance to showcase his trademark sound on an expansive, four-track E.P for the Amsterdam-based label.
Some may be familiar with Efde's work through his occasional 12' singles for Nordik Netrecords and Soweso, where he distilled a variety of influences - think dreamy, ultra-deep house, the Chicago bump of Chez Damier, and the sci-fi pulse of Detroit - into tracks that had a distinctive vibe all of their own.

My Bleep' is arguably his most stunning production yet: a spine-tingling re-imagining of Detroit futurism built around sparkling, intertwined melody lines, dusty drum machine rhythms, hissing hi-hats and throbbing, analogue bass. While a thing of rare beauty, it also comes blessed with moments of sweaty percussive intensity, with stacked snare hits that increase in energy as the track progresses. The original's inherent beauty is emphasized further on the accompanying Ambient Mix', which recalls the glory days of Pete Namlook's FAX Records in the early 1990s.

There's more far-sighted dancefloor futurism to be found on the flip, where the spacey chord progressions, sprightly synth-bass and restless rhythms of Just Did It' capture the spirit of both the Motor City, and the classic UK techno-funk of Dave Angel and Luke Slater. A fine EP is completed by the ultra-deep shuffle of CMP135', which successfully draws on Efde's love of bumpin' U.S deep house whilst retaining the intergalactic sounds that are such a key part of the Dutchman's club-ready productions.

Chicago based Toddsonic33 shows his skills for edits and reworks for the sixth volume of Edits Collection imprint. House and Disco tunes unmissable for your sets!

2024 Repress.

Chicha Libre’s debut album, Sonido Amazonico is finally available on vinyl in Europe. The double album contains all original tracks first published as a CD back in 2008. The vinyl edition is comprised of 3 sides of music, and a fourth side with an etching of iconic Venezuelan saint Jose Gregorio.

Chicha, Peruvian psychedelic cumbia, was first popularized outside of Peru by a compilation released by Chicha Libre's own Olivier Conan and entitled "The Roots of Chicha." The music proved popular around the world, being championed by people such as Elijah Wood, Matt Groening, Alex Kapranos and director Almadovar.

The Brooklyn band Chicha Libre started out as a tribute to Peruvian pioneers but quickly evolved into an original project which MTV has called “one of the world's preeminent Tropical Psychedelic band”. Indeed, while they remain true to their Chicha roots, Chicha Libre's quickly took a more psychedelic turn drawing from its members' alternative background.

Made up of Mexican, Venezuelan, French and American the band used surf guitar, organ sounds and Latin percussion to play a mixture of borrowed and homegrown sounds – but its music remains a freeform reinvention, not an exercise in nostalgic duplication.

The re-release coincides with the release of a new EP “Tequila y Aguardiente”, in collaboration with Son Rompe Pera and La Sonora Mazuren.

How about a volley of hydraulic heaters from one of Denmark’s finest?

Already a man of many projects, both on the label side and in the studio, Natal Zaks has minted a brand-new alias… Enter Aquafaba, the ocean floor operator kicking it on a subaqueous tip.

Not many moving like this today. Properly submerged techno, masterful and ultra-essential by Aquafaba, self-monikered after the starchy, liquid byproduct of cooking chickpeas. Patrick Star would be proud for sure.

From Aarhus to the deepest ocean trenches in pursuit of that fathoms-below sound. Nods to the Midwest – chiefly mid-’90s Robert Hood and Cajmere’s ‘Percolator’ – felt in parts, but it’s also riddled with ultra-engrossing detail. Zaks goes heavy with the effects as tracky rollers are propelled to new mesmeric heights, even allowing for a moment of proper widescreen ascension.

Heads-down dynamixxx in full effect as we harness immense hydraulic power. Eschewing instant dancefloor gratification, Zaks emerges with tension and funk, like only the finest strains of techno can achieve.

Global Sounds for Modern Dancefloors. Das sechste Album des DJ/Produzenten Captain Planet aus L.A. fängt den globalen Spirit seiner berühmten DJ-Sets ein. Clubs & Festivals rund um den Planeten feiern Captain Plant für seine Fähigkeit, afrikanische, lateinamerikanische und karibische Traditionen mit Hip-Hop, Dancehall und Electro-Funk zu fusionieren. Mit jahrzehntelanger Erfahrung liefert er einen vielseitigen und verbindenden Sound, der die Dancefloors weltweit zum Beben bringt. DIG vereint Sänger aus Brasilien, Kolumbien, Haiti, Nigeria, Ghana und Angola und verwebt ihre Traditionen zu bass- und drumslastigen Tracks mit mitreißender Energie. Die Top-Single "Tony's House" ist eine Neubearbeitung von Tony Allens "Afrodisco Beat", das gefühlvolle Outro "Mi Calor" featuret den langjährigen Koop-Partner Chico Mann.