Suche:chop

Decay Records celebrates its tenth anniversary with a new EP from Italian duo Neverdogs, backed by remixes from Nu Zau and Ivan Iaobucci.

Over the past decade Decay Records has firmly cemented itself as a purveyor of sophisticated stripped back house sounds, releasing music from the likes of Shaun Reeves, Mihai Popoviciu, Christian Burkhardt, Alex Arnout and of course Neverdogs duo who return here to mark the labels milestone ten years of existence. The Italian Neverdogs duo have been steadily making their own mark over the past decade through material on Bamboleo, Kluki, This And That and Tamango.

Title-cut "In The Mood" leads with crisp drums, hazy atmospherics and a dynamically evolving construction. Ivan Iacobucci's twist on "In The Mood" follows and shifts the original into a murky, twisted interpretation with choppy stabs, glistening textures and crunchy drums intertwined with fragments of the original.

"Lion Heart" follows on the flip side and lays focus on a bouncy bass groove, plucked synth stabs and shuffled percussion before Nu Zau's take on "Lion Heart" rounds out the release, employing twisted acid squelches, dubby synth flutters and subtly nuanced drums all unfurling across its six-minute duration.

Fate is a funny old thing. One day in 2011, DJ/producer Tom Trago found himself sharing a train journey with Steven Van Lummel, a DIY musician, artist and co-founder of PIP, an underground nightclub and cultural hub in The Hague. Over the course of a rambling, open-ended conversation, the idea of making music together came up; a few weeks later, Trago travelled to van Lummel’s place – a former industrial unit that was now home to a rotating cast of artists and musicians – and didn’t leave for a month.

Cossetted away from the outside world in van Lummel’s loft, with multi-instrumentalists Janneke Nijhuijs and Wieger Hoogendorp joining them to create a musical four-piece, MEGA WEGA was born. Over the course of four weeks, the quartet embarked on an almost continuous creative session punctuated only by impromptu parties and mixing sessions. Life-long bonds were made and over 70 tracks recorded before the mundanity of day-to-day life came calling.

For one reason or another, the project never saw the light of day, with tracks sat gathering dust on hard drives for the best part of a decade. During the madness and loneliness of the COVID-19 pandemic, Trago rediscovered the tracks. Delighted by what he heard, a collective decision was made to add finishing touches and release the resultant album on van Lummel’s PIP Records imprint. Further instruments and vocals were added over two days at Hoogendorp’s studio, before mutual friend Tom Ruig got on board to mix the album.

So, what can you expect from Haunted, Mega Wega’s debut album? First and foremost, it’s the sound of pure creative expression – the distillation of a freewheeling, no-holds-barred, spontaneous musical journey variously inspired by the do-it-yourself ethos of musical counterculture, shared inspirations and influences, epic jam sessions, distant stars (Wega, sometimes known as Fidis or ‘the harp star’, is one of the brightest in the night sky), imaginary journeys across dusty deserts, and the comradeship of four new friends.

Enchanting and alluring, it’s an album that gleefully denies lazy categorization and ploughs its own eclectic, atmospheric musical furrow in vivid sonic detail. It’s a collective exploration of heady musical eclecticism unified by saucer-eyed vocals, low-slung bass, loose-limbed beats, sweaty percussion workouts and hazy electric piano motifs.

Haunted begins with the woozy and hallucinatory slow-burn soundscape of ‘Get Things Done’ – an effects laden shuffle akin to lying flat on your back tripping under an intense desert sun – and ends with the creepy, mind-mangling post-punk funk of ‘Brain Carpaccio’; in between, you’ll find spaced-out, low-tempo lo-fi soul (‘Move Around’, ‘Haunted’), tactile synth-powered boogie revivalism (‘Make Me Work’), deep and off-kilter opioid jazz (‘Copenhagen’), intoxicating psychedelia (‘Last Night on Earth’), piano-laden dream-pop epics (‘Shake Or Fall’), and Latin-infused, percussion-powered hedonism (‘Chopping Heads’).

Born out of spontaneous collaboration and immersive, almost endless recording sessions, Haunted is an album shot through with imagination and boundless energy, captured for posterity by four friends and collaborators at the top of their game.

Mood Child label owners Sirus Hood and Manda Moor curate a sonic journey featuring global talent as they proudly present their latest compilation, ‘Various Moods’. A kaleidoscope of experiences, the release showcases six tracks from diverse artists, each contributing their unique vibe to this eclectic musical package.

Hailing from Brazil, Wayne Le’s ‘This is How’ pays homage to the origins of electronic music with a rolling bassline and a vocal tribute to classic Roland machines, the 808 and the 303. The track’s energy crescendos, making it a highly sought-after ID. Spanish duo Fourth Phase brings ‘WTF’ to the compilation, a groovy masterpiece characterized by 909 drums, a massive bassline, and a playful vocal, reminiscent of the 90s. From Curitiba, Brazil, guerrA. presents ‘Storno’, a fast-paced old-school beat that weaves chopped vocals from a rap DJ tool into a groove enriched with analog drums and a powerful bass sound.

A fusion of French and Taiwanese influences, Nathan Alzon’s ‘Flashback’ captures the essence of a new beginning. The track features a vocal saying “take me away”, blending seamlessly with the groovy sound characteristic of Alzon’s productions. Representing Mexico, Gama delivers ‘Tatata’, an explosion of Latin percussive elements blended with a hypnotizing groove. Inspired by his hometown Cancún, Gama experiments with new rhythms and sounds, infusing a significant Latin influence into the track. Marseille’s Malikk, known for his releases on Hot Creations and Hottrax, collaborates with Palermo-based Side B. The duo draws inspiration from '80s disco, funky, soul, and retro movies, crafting ‘How I Feel’ with punchy drums, a heavy bassline, and unique grooves.

Recut & Repressed!

Tbilisi based party series Pluto’s Plan launches a new label sharing the same name. To start the things off 3 local producers collabed to merge their sounds in 1 decent wax. A stellar VA compiled EP “Starship of Charon” consists of 2 pure house, acid pumper and slow breaks. A1 and B1 house joints were delivered by the label's own Hatsvali. A2 is claimed by a very good friend of a label Toke, family member of D.ko he delivers a masterpiece with pleasing acid chops fitting any party at any given time. B2 is an unheard side of Horoom resident Hamatsuki, a smooth slow burner for early heat.

Orphic Apparition follow up their inaugural release by RAFRAM, the collaborative project of Toronto's Raf Reza aka Raf Rizzla and UK acid house luminary Ramjac Corporation, with a new two-tracker from the transatlantic bass warriors. Where the RAFRAM 12" gifted us five variations on the same live jam cut from Grow Tottenham, here we have a spontaneous track written by Paul (Ramjac) on the A-side and a fully warped dancehall mix from Raf on the B. (short)

'Press 1 to Repeat' began as an on-the-spot demonstration of the musical self, a natural response to being asked 'What is it that you do?'. Within a few minutes Ramjac had his laptop out and was bashing out a quintessentially English sort of kitchen tabletop version of Kraftwerk - Numbers, the tongue in cheek automated voice on the other end of the line querying his account balance in tow. Proudly showing his friend Ryoko his improvisatory skills, a £10 hifi from a Japanese 2nd hand shop served as the portable monitors whilst the track waited to be brought back to his studio in London. The track is anchored by a bouncy, Irdial-reminiscent percussive workout which punches above its weight for its humble beginnings. Add the dubbed out synth pads and sort of electrical static FX in the background and everything syncs together in cosmic harmony. Hopefully Ryoko now gets the gist!

Raf Rizzla takes the stems and channels some inspiration from the Jamaican movie “Third World Cop” by turning the track on its head with a double-time baseline and half-time melody to craft a big dancehall version with a bit of a modern day On-U twist. Here Raf shows yet another side to his truly versatile production chops which have seen him release house, trance, breaks and downtempo cuts on a variety of Canadian labels prior to starting Orphic Apparition.

Repress!

'You got the stuff' is not 'Lovely day' - that much is true. This one's a wigged out, extended, trip into deep space from 1978 that is truly baffling.
Of course, it features Bill singing for the first half of the track but then all of a sudden we're launched into a cosmic wormhole as everything just falls back and the track is stripped of any earthly qualities. People find themselves asking 'this...... this is Bill Withers' as lazer guided synths and rock solid drums pull us into the sonic vortex. Truly amazing. Obviously a nugget like this has not gone unnoticed and has been edited and chopped and sampled deftly by the more sarcastic, left-field oriented crate diggers out there but it has never been reissued legitimately - Until now!

A hugely sought after and collectible gem right here, backed with the wistful slow jam 'Look To Each Other For Love' as per the original 1978 Columbia promo 12" version. This left-field, cosmic classic has been legally reissued by Above Board distribution in conjunction with the legal rights holders - Sony Music Entertainment. This high quality repress features original Columbia pink label Disco 12" artwork and has been remastered from Sony's original sources by Optimum Mastering, Bristol UK.

Aphrose reveals her sophomore album, 'Roses,' a captivating amalgamation of Neo-Soul and R&B, delving into the wellspring of ancestral strength and love.

Hailing from Toronto, Canada, Aphrose, also known as Joanna Mohammed, unveils her sophomore album, establishing her as one of Toronto's best-kept musical treasures. Known for her commanding vocal prowess within her hometown, this gifted songwriter and vocalist is rapidly garnering global acclaim and accolades from both fans and music critics alike. Signed to independent Soul label LRK Records, 'Roses' remains firmly rooted in Aphrose's signature style characterized by resounding R&B vocals. However, it also embraces a softer, more introspective aura that brilliantly showcases her remarkable versatility in navigating diverse genres, moods, and musical approaches with remarkable finesse.

This album offers a little something for everyone, catering to enthusiasts of Neo-soul, traditional Soul, Hip Hop, and R&B. Produced by her longtime friends/collaborators at SafeSpaceship Music (Scott McCannell, Chino De Villa, Ben Macdonald), the album serves as a compelling testament to the collective creativity of Aphrose and this exceptional production trio, delivering a kaleidoscope of soundscapes, textures, rhythms, and grooves. 'Roses' weaves together both lighthearted and profound elements as Aphrose explores her life journey, delving into her familial past and present, grappling with the challenges of new motherhood, and contemplating her relationships with herself, her partner, and her friends. Across the 35-minute LP, Aphrose draws inspiration from Neo-soul icons like Jill Scott and Erykah Badu, pays homage to Soul legends such as Aretha Franklin and MJ, and infuses contemporary R&B influences from artists like Frank Ocean, SiR, and SZA. The result is a sound that distinctly bears the 'Aphrose sound,' reflecting her deep admiration for her inspirations while imparting a refreshing twist to familiar genres.

The album commences with its title track, 'Roses,' which was released as a single on August 25th. This song sets the stage, invoking the strength of Aphrose's ancestors, particularly her late Grandmother Rose. Following suit is 'YaYa,' also released as a single on July 7th. This buoyant dance track whisks listeners back to the disco era of the late 70s and early 80s. The album's third track, 'Heavenly Father,' offers a brief interlude featuring a recording of Aphrose's Grandmother Rose engaged in prayer, setting the tone for the subsequent track, 'In The Time Of Sorrow.' This contemplative, chill piece captures Aphrose's musings on navigating a world often shrouded in fakery, while craving authenticity. 'Honey (Don't) Come Back' seamlessly transitions between two distinct musical personalities, commencing with a deep, almost Trap-like bass/drum beat before transforming into a spirited Funk/Soul jam—an anthem of empowerment encouraging the listener to leave a situationship that is no longer working. 'What You Don't See' strips the production down to its core, as Aphrose and guitarist/co-writer Heather Crawford craft an intimate ode to a friendship's sad ending.

The B-side opens with the evocative 'Weapons,' featuring a five-person choir including LRK label-mate Claire Davis, Nevon Sinclair (Daniel Caesar and LOONY), Kyla Charter (Aysanabee and Alessia Cara), Lydia Persaud, and Marla Walters. The track is adorned with a stirring string arrangement courtesy of Jessica Deutsch. 'Chop The Cake' acts as a breather, interlude-style, easing the intensity. 'Soft Nuclear' channels the spirit of the early 2000s R&B movement, bearing traces of influence from Lucy Pearl. 'Good Love,' released as the first single off this body of work on May 19th, transports listeners to the 70s with its soulful resonance, drawing inspiration from the likes of Michael Jackson and Teddy Pendergrass. 'Higher' stands as Aphrose's tribute to Prince, capturing the essence of his music within its hook and production. The album's culmination arrives with 'ZAG,' an acronym derived from Aphrose's daughter's name, commencing with the sound of her daughter's heartbeat in-utero from a sonogram taken when Aphrose was pregnant. This heartfelt composition serves as a dedication to her daughter and all parents navigating the rollercoaster of parenthood, emphasizing the imperative of nurturing love to shape the future.

'Roses' stands as Aphrose's homage to her history—her Grandma Rose and the ancestral trailblazers who paved her path to the present life she enjoys; her current experiences—her self-discovery, her relationships with her partner and friends; and her aspirations for the future—her daughter and the generations to come. This album crystallizes these temporal dimensions, prompting introspection, celebration, laughter, and tears. 'Roses' is a musical odyssey that scrutinizes the multifaceted beauty of existence, inviting listeners to partake in this thing called life.

The radio world has taken notice of Aphrose's talent, with national Radio Capital's Italy Massimo Oldani spinning her latest single "YaYa" for the entire month of July on his show "Vibe." And both singles getting to number 10 in the UK soul chart.Additionally, Aphrose has received national radio play on renowned stations such as BBC in the UK, RTVE in Spain, and Radio France FIP.

Aphrose has also made CBC's Top 100 finalist list for their Searchlight competition.

Huey Morgan played "YaYa" the second track off the album on his BBC radio six show

After a long hiatus Klaus Benedek comes back on his own mothership Fortunea Records with a brand-new production. ‚Tombstone’ heralds the autumn. You can feel the melancholy that brings the end of the warm and bright days with it. Although the subject matter is dark and eerie, the track wanders with its epic instrumentation through pensive optimism. The remarkable chopped hookline and the concise and soft bassline are casted in a flowing deep sounded carpet full of hope. An epic excursion that you definitely should give a try.

A considerable move into a different sound sphere goes Berlin-based artist and Tieffrequent-founder Siggatunez. He has had an outstanding array of vital productions this year and with his remix he lets you „feel the unknown“. In a very detailed way he made a serious dancefloor intended track, in the signature style of his current output, where beats and groove take the lead, but keeping the soul of the
original with the use of its pads, strings and bass.

Tombstone will come out on limited 200 copy vinyl and in its digital form onstreaming services and download stores on the 27th of october. There will be no repress!ö

Regardless of where you’re from, it’s where you at. These wise words are some that the Watch Patrol wants you to remember as we all trying to find and stay on our path..

These wise words start off the A side and prepare us for a funky and synth fueled, cow bell-ing journey.

Next we head into Trial & Error, a bouncing tech which has already been proven to bring some big energy on the dance floor.

The B side contains the breaks you’ve been waiting for. Two big tunes that have been deliciously dialed in to spread groove and funk on the dancefloors. Trance, breaks, arpeggios, chopped up vocals, and special effects that will get you to keep this one in the bag at all times.
Limited copies as always, be quick!

Welcome back to sublabel Trix Trax, our series dedicated to sharing the Techno side of things.

After a little hiatus Trix Trax is back with a stacked four track VA, Technotations Vol. 1. Blending techno, IDM and breaks this releases showcases some of the many styles and energies the genre has to offer.

Starting off the VA, we have the track ‘Losing’ from Japanese producer MAGPOST. This loopy, hypnotic groover will add a layer of intrigue and mystery to your deep and moody sets!

Next up we have ‘Rise’ from JD Typo who’s debut EP, started off the Trix Trax series. This speedy techno cut will cause mayhem on the dance floors, nourishing souls in its wake with ethereal lush pads and vocal chops that creep in as the track progresses!

On the flip side we have a sobering track from Ukrainian producer Taras Vinnichenko called 24.02.22. Created the day Russia invaded Ukraine, t’s an auditory diary of Taras’ reaction to the unfolding of events. The crunch of the bass and breaks audate the panic and disarray on the ground.

Closing off the EP we have a unique groover from US producer Mr. Projectile who recently released an album on Wex sub label, La Luna. This crunchy and jittery cut takes you on a bass heavy, boom-filled journey of speedy techno and IDM!

On the sleeve, Sonia Malpeso delivers another whacky custom design on the front sleeve as well as a beautiful typographic showcase on the back and inner sleeve!

Kay-Dee Records is coming at you with a 45 double-hitter, presenting Bert Hector’s ‘The Phoenix’ and ‘The Kraken’ with Kenny Dope on remix duties.

On the first record, we’re treated to ‘The Phoenix’: a sure-fire funk gem with a super warm sound. The beat is as cool as it gets, with a laid-back and funky attitude, sitting beneath a joyous intermingling of sitar, flute, brass and guitar - all performed at expert levels.

‘The Kraken’ has a killer groove, struttin’ along at 85 bpm with a real old-school sound on the beat. Joining the breaks is a huge brass section which pumps loud, while flute solos and funky Wah-wah guitar chops take things up a notch. This is a pure, unadulterated groove.

Bar Musica is a brand new label that promises to inject plenty of charm and originality into the underground house and techno world. The first release kicked up quite a storm from label owner Bartolomeo, and the second release features a trio of great originals by J Paraguai, with a remix from long time electronic talent Bruno Pronsato.

Rumba is up first and is a full fat, corrugated house track with tribal percussion, punchy drums that swing down low and Afro vocals. It is a dynamite groove with roughshod tin pot hits that are carefully treated and bring a lovably wild side to the track. Thesoundsays founder and Berlin based New Yorker Bruno Pronsato has been on the fringes of the underground for more than a decade with inventive EPs and LPs on labels like Hello repeat and Bosconi. His remix is stripped back to a forceful and rubbery techno groove. Blistered synths rip up the middle and spooky voices, trippy effects and manic loops all make it a freaky late night or after-hours tune that will send floors wild.

Ble is then another J Paraguai, and this one is again unhinged and urgent, with intense synths exploding above shuffling, tightly knotted minimal drums and sweeping pads. It's pure WTF music for brave DJs and dancers and is a truly original production.

Then last original Atles is rugged and impactful in the way in combines house and techno into new ideas. It is stripped back to little chopped loops that bury deep in your brain and have you in a trance in no time. As such, it rounds out a fine EP and keeps this exciting new label going off in great style.

2026 Repress

Pure UKG gold from ’98, as the masterful M.A.D Productions aka M.J. Cole and Darryl 'B' joined forces with the queen Carroll Thompson to produce the highly sought after underground cut ‘Too Late’. With originals selling for £90+ it’s about time a remastered, reissue hit the racks.

Providing a snapshot into the explosion of UKG across the country in the late ‘90s, a melting pot that bubbled up so many classics in its heyday, ‘Too Late’ is straight up, soulful UKG perfection. The ‘Deep Vocal Mix’ lays Thompson’s slick, sensuous vocals over a skippy bumper of a beat, subby bassline and sublime pads. Peaktime, warm-up or warm-down this is an unquestionable garage groover.

Take to the flip for the ‘Underground Dub’. The duo chop up the vocals in trademark style, turn the swing and skip of those hats up to the max, whilst wobbling and weaving soulful stabs to create a 4x4 heater that is guaranteed to have hands drawing for wheel-ups left, right and centre.

Next up on Toolroom’s 4-track vinyl sampler series is another tasty collab from label founder, Mark Knight with legendary House DJ and producer Todd Terry and the Darryl James & David Anthony Project. Diving straight back into that classic 90’s House sound, Mark Knight delivers a taste of his finest production to date after unearthing Todd Terry’s edit of ‘Buddah’ by Darryl James & David Anthony Project, shaping up a seriously killer reworking of this gem fresh for the dance floor in 2023.

Next up, renowned German selector Eddie Thoneick makes a label debut with his club orientated big room weapon ‘Take It Back’. Taking it back straight through to the dance floor, Eddie Thoneick has become a name synonymous with high quality productions, providing remixes for Armand Van Helden, Steve Angello, Bob Sinclar and David Guetta. Eddie’s chunky production style shines through on ‘Take It Back’, offering up a slice of raw Tech House with deep, rumbling bass lines, metallic percussive elements and a resonating hook which will cause uproar in any club its played in.

Up next is another heater from DJ, producer and Toolroom Academy tutor Pete Griffiths who drops what can only be described as a House anthem in the making, with his brand-new track ‘Get Together’. A peak time record that sees Pete Griffiths dive deep into the sound of 90’s nostalgia, dropping a seriously well-produced and classy House banger. Also featuring on the record is American R&B, Gospel vocalist Ann Nesby, formerly the lead vocalist of the Sounds of Blackness ensemble who brings her powerful vocals to the forefront, elevating this release to anthemic status.

Last but not least, Hungarian duo Muzzaik return to the label with StadiumX on their collab track ‘Echoes’. Together, Muzzaik and StadiumX bring their signature sound to Toolroom with ‘Echoes’, a record that’ll command any dance floor it’s dropped on. Featuring a toughened-up groove, rolling bass line, and chopped vocal cuts mixed with just the right amount of edge.

100 bpm leftfield Dancehall inspired by early 2000s riddims. Silvestre's reaction to his research and digging on dancehall music resulted in composing a 6 track Ep with heavy influence in this genre adding his own dreamy melodies and razor synths which he has got us used to.

In addition to melodies, you can notice chopped vocal samples which actually are taken from UK Drill tunes proposing the connection between the two genres.

Here we are - the new release from the italian project Club Soda is finally here!

The trio, made up of Nicola on bass, Simone on drums and samplers, and Filippo on keys, is bringing some real, raw, authentic sounds to the table. Their first LP, "Vibin' Places" dropped in 2020 and it's a versatile homemade electronic album that hits different, whether you're a listener, DJ, or clubber.

This new EP is fire too. A1 track "Basso e Batteria" with Sara Loreni on lyrics and vocals, has clear echoes of a '00s vocal-house joints, but sounds like it was recorded in a Chicago basement. The dirty grooves, thumping bass, and enveloping pads create a free-form vibe that's perfect for you summer madness.

But then they go and take it to the next level with the remixes on B side. Cristalli Liquidi's remix is on some current dance floor-ish, with bouncing rhythms, a wild bassline, and a catchy vocal cut. And Hill's dub mix is straight up trippy - like you're lost in a warehouse at 6am, with dreamy pads, a solid bassline, and rhythms that are distant but still pull you in.

And let's not forget "Gin Tonic" (A2) - it's a dope sunset jam session that's pure “Club Soda style”, with congas, DX7 keys, funky bass, and an MPC chop. This EP is the real deal, from start to finish! Shout out to Giulia Dall’ Ara for the sick artwork on the cover and label too - she killed it!

2025 Repress

Beste Modus, we_r_house and Unison Wax co-founder Cinthie launches her new imprint Crystalgrooves this October with three raw House cuts.

Berlin's Cinthie has long been a respected figure in the underground electronic music scene of Berlin and further afield, heading up the Beste Modus and we_r_house imprints, as well as Unison Wax alongside Diego Krause amongst holding a residency at the infamous Watergate club in her hometown and recently opening her new record store in Friedrichshain, Elevate. It's clear to see electronic music scene plays a huge part in Cinthie's life and here we see her adding another label to her already impressive coterie of imprints, namely 803 Crystalgrooves, a platform for her own material edging towards more classic, raw House sounds in contrast to the deeper more stripped back sounds heard across the other labels. Leading on the package is the anthemic heavy hitter 'Together', a heady House groove fuelled by a filtered, funk-infused bass line, bright organ chords and bumpy 909 drums, the result is an emotive slice of peak-time house to kick start the EP.x 'Ada Lovelace' follows and tips the focus over to dusty, swinging drum sounds and an amalgamation of choppy disco string and vocal samples all intricately programmed to create a dynamic dance floor workout. 'No Need To Worry' then rounds out the package with murky bass tones, wandering stab sequences and stripped-back shuffled percussion to close the package on a more dark and brooding tip.

Two little ducks, it's 22! You asked so we have delivered, with this mind and groin boggling 12''. Kicking things off with some monsterous uptempo garage courtesy of Grant Nelson’s Remix of Dave & Omar 'Starlight'. Next up is a forthcoming DJ Fudge production ‘Everything' by Chocolate Fudge Band, featuring lots of live instrumentation and a Curtis Mayfield style vocal.

Flip it over for Dave’s super soulful 4/4 workout of 'Look at the Stars' featuring Maurissa Rose and the brand new Opolopo - 'Looking For You', a deep and bouncy cut filled with soulful Motown vocal chops and an Organ workout worthy of any Sunday service. Take your trousers off, lie back and enjoy.

Empress Enigma:
The contradictory language of speech, rhythm and melody generate this musical paradox.

Drivetrain (Detroit, USA)
It Can Never Be The Same (Parts 1 & 2)
Deep and moody, Part 1 is driven by a captivating bass groove with lush, silky pads constructing a mesmerizing wall of sonic euphoria. The vocal hook echoes the commentary with one simple phrase.
The stripped down Part 2 replaces the drums with hand percussion while Drivetrain shows off his bass guitar chops charismatically with an emotional solo throughout.

Rennie Foster (Vancouver, CAN)
Guiding Light
A ghostly banger, poised in atmospheric essence. Shifting layers of sound harmonize to the unyielding bass line as Alejandra Garcia sprinkles vocal seasoning on top.
I Haven't Forgotten
Built on the foundation of a rock-solid bass progression, the ambience of melodic strings and piano blend an audio sedative accompanied by an airy vocal presence and bits of acid integration.

2026 Repress

Kerri Chandler delivers ‘Lost & Found Vol.2’ this March, marking the second instalment of the series which focuses on tracks from his archives.

Kerri Chandler’s Kaoz Theory unveiled the label bosses ‘Spaces & Places’ LP in 2022, showcasing Kerri’s globetrotting career of the past few decades and featuring recordings produced on the dance floors of many leading clubs such as DC10, Sub Club, Rex, Printworks and more.

Here the label kicks off 2023 with a glimpse into Chandler’s archived material, offering up four cuts in his inimitable, iconic style.

‘Fluff Rehab’ leads the way and see Kerri offering up crisp drums, spiralling dub stabs and fluttering low-end pulsations throughout.

‘What If’ follows and tips the focus over to a more soulful feel, fusing a wandering bass line and airy textures with vocal chants, choppy keys, and a gritty drum groove.

‘Who Are You (Main Vox)’ then opens the B-side, retaining a similarly soul drenched feel, bringing Kerri’s own harmonious vocals into the mix alongside a crunchy, swinging rhythm and jazzy elements.

‘Dem Joy Ride’ rounds out the EP next, flipping the switch to a funk-infused, organic feel as brass lines, hypnotic keys, dynamic drums, and guitar licks collide across an ever unfolding five and a half minutes.

Italian DJ and producer Francis De Simone debuts on Lee Foss and Jamie Jones' label Hot Creations with London Bass. Having built a solid back catalogue in recent years, his first Hot Creations release embodies the dynamic sound of the Palermo-born artist, channelling chunky tech house and disco-flavoured melodies.

De Simone explains his creative thinking behind the EP. "These tracks fully express my devotion to music. I ranged a lot, trying to remember an 80's sound up to a more raw and synthetic groove with Latin vocals to embrace the different ethnic groups." Reflecting his thoughts to a tee, the title track rumbles with a massive bassline and chopped-up vocals that add an instant burst of energy. Things get weird on Saludos A Todos, as thumping kickdrums collide with a trippy melody and even trippier vocals, creating a wavey atmosphere. The ideal club curveball. On Off White, De Simone delivers a pacey number packed with burbling beats and clicky percussion, complemented by dreamy vocals. The hint is in the name on closing track, This Is Undergound. A big room delight, De Simone drops a stripped-back banger, where the lyrics do the talking in tandem with a driving bassline. An excellent addition to the Hot Creations discography.

Based in Palermo, Italy, Francis De Simone stems from a family of musicians. Having played the drums from age two, the versatile artist can make anything from rock, pop and jazz, but these days, De Simone pens electronic music. His father worked as a bouncer for various local discos and exposed De Simone to dance music from a young age, later inspiring him to produce house and techno with an uplifting tint. Releases on Glasgow Underground, LW Recordings and REALM Records have helped shape the profile of this flourishing artist, with plenty more to come further down the line.

Following a first successful 2020 instalment and a contribution to our VA series, Blame The Mono are back on the Taapion mothership to deliver their second household EP. This 4-tracker stays true to the beloved influences of the duo by showcasing multiple genres and heavily using vocals, while keeping a dancefloor-focused essence. ''Sustain The Rigour'' translates the hard disciplined work Blame The Mono put in the studio switching over the techno recipe while keeping its original ingredients. Throughout the coldwave sonic explorations of Forlorn, endless vocal looping drive of Front Left Rodeo, bombastic Moog bassline of Conepusher or the spaced -out garagey vocal chops of Caledonian Woofers, this EP keeps both pace and inventivity rigorously high.

For their sixth instalment, Lowlife Cartel follow up to their last two compilations (“Pimps Improvisations” in 2018 and “Omnia Vanitas” in 2020) with a new six-track VA named “Kodoku”; a vortical release, both bold and forward-looking, while fully geared for the club environment. Taking its title from a poisonous magic from the medieval Japanese era obtained by placing several venomous insects in a jar and letting them kill one another until only one survives, “Kodoku” - which interestingly also translates as “solitude” - features a cast of producers old and new to the fold including Saverio Celestri, the faceless △, Prince de Takicardie, Tundramane & Ko$te, Solar Alliance and Shampoo.

A staple element of the Lowlife Cartel bunch, Saverio Celestri paves the way and dishes out one of his signature jagged, EBM-informed weapons in “Sundays”. Through this hotchpotch of acid-steeped bass entangled with a frantic newbeat-ish swing and razor-sharp synthwaves, the Italian producer shows off the raw and playful facets of his craft to optimal effect. Unknown contributor △ clocks in with “Crachats de Lune”, a proper ominous banger going straight for the jugular with its clever mix of dusty, drum-laden churn, processed vox stabs and sci-fi-indebted laser bursts flashing by unrelentingly. Tailored for hi-octane action at the defunct Boccaccio or Hacienda, Prince de Takicardie “Jam’on’Acid (House Mix)” blows the winds of euphoria across the club like it was done in 1995. Vibing to a pulsating mix of rabid snares, 303-vehicled charges and mangled vocal samples on a classic free rave tip, throwback material that packs a punch.

Flip it over and here is North-American duo Tundramane & Ko$te shifting the scope to Memphis chopped-and-screwed in true hardcore fashion. Straight-out aggression, “Brick To The Face” lives up to its title, so expect leaving the place with a few teeth out your mouth and a good concussion, though more side effects could appear over repeated listens. A radical U-turn from the previous, Ute.- related triplet Solar Alliance - alias Ekkel, Oprofessionell and Mikkel Rev - bring their dashing trance touch to the comp with “Quest for Kiba”, an uptemp maelstrom for the senses, swirling and whirling up until space and time make no damn sense any more. Topping off that versatile tour de force, Japanese producer Shampoo adds his delectably sensuous spin on the record with the lush, sample-heavy lo-fi appeal of “四季ノ歌”. Unpolished feelgood vibes, sun- streaked soulfulness and deft-handed MPC wizardry are on the menu for this ultimate ride and jolly finale.

Force Placement's AEROBICIDE EP is a killer workout of afterhours acid and galaxian breakbeat.

Four hypnotic bangers from Los Angeles with remix support from DJ Manny, D.I.E., and Martyn Bootyspoon

Los Angeles – Following releases on 100% Silk, Clave House, BANK NYC and Lost Soul Enterprises, FORCE PLACEMENT arrives on EVAR Records with four tracks of naughty squelching acid and breakbeat techno hypnotically calling you to the afterhours, backed by a trio of remixes from Martyn Bootyspoon, Detroit In Effect, and DJ Manny, representing North American excellence in techno, electro, and footwork, respectively.

A longtime friend of the EVAR crew from renegade breakcore parties in Santa Barbara to underground experimental electronics happenings in Los Angeles, Into the Woods and The Black Lodge resident Jason "Force Placement" James taps into his love of weird trippy atmospherics, rhythmic complexity and DIY punk/noise aesthetics to create this quartet of mystic, mysterious bangers, crafted with the MPC1000, Elektron's Octatrack sampler, the Korg minilogue, and Ableton.

The AEROBICIDE EP begins its killer workout with "Yeeks," a cabalistic ass-mover driven by a haunted female vocal sample floating atop locomotive bass and shakers – a factory's worth of industrial sounds and eerie accents move in and out of the mix, adding intrigue and interest.

Moving to the main room of the rave, "Balloon Animal" shoots you through an inflatable tube of squelchy acid techno as knives cut the air around you, while "Upsetter" adds a shuffling breakbeat rave bounce into the acid mix. "Quartered" chops it up with Clone-style dark analog electro that gets increasingly deconstructed by dirty, stretched percussion and rivulets of synth reverb raining down the walls.

Rounding out this occult aerobics class, some of North America's most compelling forces in dance music are called in for remix duty. Unsung electro hero Detroit In Effect aka D.I.E. – the man behind such classics as "RU Married" and "Get Up" – leans deep into the classic Motor City palette, pairing lush, spacey pads with that hard-swung Detroit bounce to create a mellow groover that will keep you going all night. Montreal's world-class party starter M. Bootyspoon recalls Substance Abuse-era Hawtin and mid-'90s Midwest techno on his "Balloon Animals" remix, with nasty claps and concentric loops of hard acid bleeps and squelches. And who better to tackle "Upsetter" than Southside Chicago's footwork futurist DJ Manny? The Teklife king eschews the romantic R&B tones of his recent Planet Mu album for a tough-as-nails rework that ups the tension and the tempo to create an otherworldly saga for the dance circle.

Birimingham’s TRMNL Records returns with its third release this September, coming courtesy of Paris, France’s Djebali.

Djebali has been releasing his twist on House and Techno since 2008 via the the likes of Fuse London's label and sub-label Infuse, Burnski’s Aesthetic, Chez Damier’s Balance Music, REda daRE Records and of course his own self-titled Djebali label which has been the predominant home for his output over the past decade.

Here though we see Djebali join the roster of the fledgling TRMNL Records, launched by the Birmingham club night of the same name so far the imprint has unveiled two EP’s by East End Dubs and Samu.l to date and here the story continues.

Title-cut ‘Rave Vision’ leads with a squelchy acid bassline and robust drums running alongside gritty stabs, spacey atmospheric pads and choppy vocal samples. ‘Line 56’ follows, shifting focus to dubby stab sequences, heavily swung drums and a bumpy bass groove all flowing with a subtly nuanced feel throughout.

The Hypnotic floaty sounds of ‘Cotton Candy’ then round out the release, diving deeper via an amalgamation of airy synth flutters, resonant synth licks and snaking subs atop a shuffled drum groove.


DJ Support:

Marco Carola
Chris Stussy
Rich Nxt
Davide Squillace
Mahony
Ilario Alicante
Jorge Savoretti
Silvie Loto
Hermanez
Tobi Neumann


DJ Feedback:

Rich Nxt - Top groove!

Salvo Borrelli - una bomba !!!!

Carlos Valdes - dope!

Alejo Galvez - lovely grooves!

Hermanez - Loving the grooves.

Tobi Neumann - Decent grooving & sounding tracks..

Karlos Sense - Wow!!!.Amazing EP. bro!!!

Mirko - super ep!

Mancini - Great EP as usual from Djebali!!

Sasa - Solid EP

Adrian Barr - Solid release, cool club rollers

Jade - Brilliant !

Lis Sarroca - all nice!

Juliche Hernandez - MASTER Djebali!! Amazing!!

Ocean Lam - Lovely summer vibes! Rave Version is my fav,

Chris Davis - rave vision is amazing!

Jorge Savoretti - Love Line 56, Djebali groover all the way

Lele Sacchi - cool deep acid driver, reminiscent of early 00's brit electronic deep, yess.

London’s SlothBoogie records welcomes Subjoi to its roster with his four-track ‘Reflections’ EP.

Hailing from Warsaw in Poland and now residing in Adelaide, Australia, Subjoi has been gaining steady traction in the House scene over the past five years, racking up releases on the likes of clipp.art, Shall Not Fade’s Lost Palms sub-label, Lobster Theremin sub-label Distant Hawaii and 13th Hour amongst others. Here we see him joining the roster of SlothBoogie Records with some more soul-infused and sun-drenched house cuts.

Up first on the EP is ‘At A Time’, seeing Subjoi lay down an amalgamation of disco string, brass and vocal samples atop a swinging drum groove, dynamically evolving with filter sweeps and a loopy feel throughout. ‘Gone’ follows next and employs more classic house tropes courtesy of a bouncy piano line, robust drums and hooky vocal chops.

Opening the B-side is ‘What You Do’, shifting things aesthetically to 2-step drums alongside airy stab sequences, bubbling synth melodies and processed R&B style vocal lines. ‘Sapporo Nights’ completes the EP next on a deeper tip, journeying through hazy string lines, warm bell chimes, heavy doses of sub bass and stripped-back, bumpy drums.

Made in two versions - classic black and limited multicolor vinyl. Limitied Surprise Edition was pressed in 200 copies and has got an OBI.

After a six year hiatus Twardowski returns with his fourth album on U Know Me Records. The newest outing is a retrofuturistic trip to the author's two biggest influences: instrumental hip-hop and… video games. The new album eschews Twardowski's previous synth-heavy style in favor of multiple layers of chopped and mended together samples, topped off by cuts from U Know Me's own jazz guitarist/turntablist Żyńy. The album invokes video games with the track titles, the LP's title being a homage to coin-ops and via the overall sound: wonky, heavily shuffled, almost-out-of-sync rhythms sounding almost as if the tracks were done sampler in one hand gamepad in the other, over a lengthy, laid back gaming/sequencing session. Maybe if a gamepad was a sampler and instrumental hip-hop was a game, "One Coin Clear" could have been its soundtrack.

One year after its original release, the Placid Angles album Touch The Earth is being remixed by an impressive array of artists from the extended Figure family. With John Beltran being a distinct voice within the electronic music scene for over thirty years now, Figure is thrilled to reveal a whole LP’s worth of reinterpretations, including two works by the original artist himself.

Opening up is Marcel Dettmann, who seamlessly has integrated the lush soundscapes of the original album into a beat-driven but equally serene journey. Picking up on the LP’s underlying dark garage tropes, Planet Mu headmaster M-ziq infuses his rework with even more rolling drums and ethereal vocal chops. The also inherent IDM roots of Touch The Earth have been kept close by Warp-veterans Plaid who deliver a shuffling flurry full of horns, synths and syncopated rhythms. More straightforward interpretations include Dauwd’s dazzling piece of feathery, fast, atmospheric techno; a gorgeous melodic house remix by Baltra and Cassy who turns in a rigid UK stomper.

Amidst all the reworks, John Beltran himself makes two appearances across the record. As Placid Angles he adds another heads-down percussive/ambient swirl, which represents exactly what the producer has been hailed for since more than three decades now. His own remix finishes the record on an epic note, with an organic drum track that celebrates life and the necessity for communal gathering in order to dance.
Beltran’s own additions to this LP are like the essential glue that makes it all bind together, forging the old and the new into something equally exciting as already intimately familar.

Daje Funk Records makes a triumphant return with the latest instalment to the spectacular ‘Slam Dunk’ series bringing you the Slam Dunk EP3.

First up on the A-Side of this stellar four tracker is Strange, with the acid laced disco burner, ‘Keep On’. From the intro of delicious 120bpm beats with added ‘Bongonaise’, the cleanest of guitar riffs leads to a hot disco bass with stabs of Rhodes keys lovingly applied. Just when you think you have it all worked out, the acid rug pull is a masterstroke. ‘Keep On’ has a classic (but often elusive) disco vibe with a wickedly acidic twist. ‘Strange’ will rule the summer, guaranteed. Any questions?

For A2, the considerable production chops of Ezirk are on full display with ‘Erotik’ - an 80s funk inspired taxi ride through rush hour traffic to the best cocktail bar on the planet. It’s infectious, demanding fist bumps and virtual high fives. It’s a melody that sets all the possibilities of a great night out through wielding the ultimate synth power. And that breezy sax? Heaven. Put the needle down and let it take you!

On the B Side, we start with label co-owner and master of the groove, De Gama and his carefully crafted ‘Higher’. The tempo is dropped right down here, with De Gama showing his darker and funkier side. Like a joint Gil Scott Heron and Robert Plant fever dream, ‘Higher’ is an intricate lecture in immaculate beats, unimaginable concepts and chord progressions. Serious grooves. Very serious.

Rounding things off on the B Side and closing the EP is ‘R.O.C.K.’ by Hungary’s The Magic Track. These boys know how to deliver a chugger from the MT workshop. You expect them to lure you in, and ‘R.O.C.K.’ does just that. One minute you’re in church, the next in a heaving club with retro beats, thumping bass and driving piano filling the air. The Magic Track are selling magic dreams and you’re buying. The whole bag.

The Slam Dunk EP 3 slam dunks with such force it shatters the backboard. Get it in your record boxes for the summer, and let it stay there!

Another seemingly obvious addition to the chosen Planet Euphorique family is underground icon Angel D'lite, presenting “303 Dalmations” as the label’s 18th release. The 5 tracker screams ruff ‘n’ ready rave with a delicate touch, embodying playfully rude dancefloor attitude politely requesting you to check your ego at the door. The South Londoner Mz D’lite carries the torch for the ambitious wave of Nu skool sounds, inspired throwbacks and masterfully crafted break work that has you stomping the house down.. Boots. Bold, brave & in your face; not for the faint hearted, a true sonic reminder to not take yourself too seriously.

Setting the tone is the title track, a tongue in cheek laugh in your face. With no messing around a brazen breakbeat assault leads the way for bleeped out bliss and building sub bass; cheekily tricking you into a 4/4 moment. The climactic chaos continues through Just Trippin, offensively tense stabs; building — ferociously, borderline losing control with the UKG hybrid ventures elevated by filtered chops and screws and a late blooming 303 workout. Tempos? High as hell.

Ell Murphy lends her passionate vocal essence to 7am on the A side closer. Feel the rush; transporting you to a moment in the dance which feels nostalgic and yet still to come.

Emo-jungle, cyber centred and spine chilling; Liquid Skies feels like a cold london morning after the rave, introspective yet unable to stay still, “in and out of control”. The record ends on a comparatively weightless low-key progressive builder Relaxcersizer. Holding the same sentimental harmonic bone engrossing sensation that trickles through the EP; with a little more patience, a moment to absorb the kaleidoscope of frantically exciting musical ideas laced throughout. This record is an ode to the dancers..Need I say more? You’ve read enough, now listen.

Three years after he released the incredible New Experience EP (picking up plaudits from Bill Brewster, Tim Sweeney, Laurent Garnier, Horse Meat Disco, Leo Mas & 6Music’s Tom Ravenscroft, among many more), Tokyo’s Kota Motomura returns to Hobbes Music for his debut LP, Pay It Forward. This is the first vinyl release on Hobbes Music since the much-loved ‘Aranath’ EP by Leonidas & Hobbes last Spring. While the label maintains the level of quality control for which it has become recognised, the artist continues to subvert electronic and dance music norms in his iconoclastic way on this extraordinary record.

He’s a mysterious character with an ear for idiosyncratic music that runs the gamut from ambient, exotica and jazz to disco, house and techno via post punk, new wave and funk. It’s highly original and all adds up to a confection perhaps best described as ‘Balearic’.

Album opener Paradise is a certified jazz-funk JAM. Destined for dance floors worldwide, this one’s been dropping well with DJs, Motomura demonstrating his piano chops alongside Mutsumi Takeuchi’s sax. Tropical pushes the boat in a more rhythmic direction, some pretty wild drum programming laced with more sounds of the, um, tropics, before mad vocal yelps suggest something yet more tribal. To Be Free initially resembles early 90s progressive house (pulsing bassline, synth-driven melodies), before the arrival of some new wave guitar licks a la classic Talking Heads/David Byrne and ooh ooh vocal chants take it to another dimension altogether.

B-side opener Emotion features Takeuchi again (on flute this time) and more vocal chants before things take a dramatic turn, threatening to open up into a full fanfare before calming and then bursting into wild life again with the exhortation that “C’mon, everybody dancing!” Rhythm flirts with an energy and pace more akin to a techno record: drums, drums, more drums plus a fair few yelps and chants - the kind of DJ tool that will send a simmering dance floor wild in the right hands. Flower closes things in a more melancholy style, familiar to fans of ‘Aboy’ from the New Experience EP, with plaintive acoustic guitar (performed by Akichi), birdsong and big piano chords.

Support from Bill Brewster, Leo Mas, Al Kent, Red Rack’em, Nick The Record, Phil Mison, Phat Phil Cooper, KZA, Sean Johnston (ALFOS), S/A/M, Dribbler, Joe Muggs, Monolith Cocktail and more…

‘Gonna review in MÜ mag... very fine stuff!’ JOE MUGGS
‘Will be reviewed on the blog’ MONOLITH COCKTAIL 
BILL BREWSTER played Flower on the DJ History podcast #641 (25.3.22)
'I really like this album, Flower and Paradise are my favourite' LEO MAS
‘I like Paradise’ AL KENT
‘Woo this is tasty. DEFO playing on my next radio show. The label’s A&R is defo getting better and better. HM has been putting out some dope stuff and this one seems really good quality’ RED RACK’EM
‘Paradise and Flower sounding good’ NICK THE RECORD
‘Tunes sound great!’ PHIL MISON
‘Going to include Paradise and Flower on my Sunday Ibiza global radio show PHAT PHIL COOPER (Nu Northern Soul)
‘Very nice album with influences from many different genres. I especially like To Be Free with nice synths and guitar cutting, and Flower, which is a chill vibe’ KZA (Mule Musiq, Endless Flight)　
'100% correct about the ALFOS potential of To Be Free!' SEAN JOHNSTON (A Love From Outer Space)
'Stunning, will fit perfectly with the vibe of my radio show’ S/A/M (Music For Dreams, DK; Playa Del Sol, Ibiza)
'Stellar work, i'll make a bet that Flowers is a Balaeric classic this summer' DRIBBLER (Breakfast Club, Ibiza)
‘It's cool in a nice smelling psycho sense, it was a very DEEP sound that I couldn't produce. Congrats!’ ALTZ (Altzmusica)
‘Paradise is my jam, it's deep, sunny and never boring. I'm interested to see how this will work on the dance floor. Overall a great album with solid composition and impressive use of live instruments!’ SOBRIETY (fka Chloé Juliette)
'Very tidy selection' ASTROJAZZ (Kelburn Garden Party, Wee Dub, Samedia Shebeen, Disco Makossa)
‘This is a lovely release. Follows on from New Experience in the best way possible. It's got lots of vibes going on but holds together as a cohesive piece of work. Love it’ JAMIE THOMSON (La Cheetah, Glasgow)
‘To Be Free is a track i could imagine Andy Weatherall playing in one of his sets at A Love From Outer Space’ KIRSTIE PATON aka She-Bang Rave Unit (Threads Radio, Radio Magnetic)

On the A side with ‘Joy’, Bruise head in a jubilant direction. Chanting vocal chops ride along deep cut kick grooves and vivid piano riffs; modernising the classic house sound and forming a track that would as likely go off in a club in the UK as it would on the sun-soaked beaches of Ibiza.

In ‘The Theme’, Bruise switches things up and offers up a weighty, bass-driven progressive techno heater; bolstered with rattling break chops and polyrhythmic analogue synth arpeggios. As the track progresses, rip-roaring, squelching acid-lines are introduced at the crescendo; creating a versatile club record; primed and ready for the clubs reopening.

On this single ‘When Pianos Attack’, the vibe is instantly recognisable. Piano chords lead the charge of yet another dancefloor destroyer, with that signature sound of swinging beats, layered pianos, lashings of strings, and hosts of heavenly soulful choirs. Just close your eyes, look up, feel the rush, and dance.

+ Includes the unreleased vinyl exclusive ‘Akiba Choirs’. A new school dance anthem!



Huge support from: Annie Mac, Pete Tong, Laurent Garnier, Severino / Horse Meat Disco, Sasha, A Trak, Andhim, Spiller, Graeme Park, DJ EZ, John Digweed, Fatboy Slim, Sam Devine, Laurence Guy, Gilles Peterson, Fred Everything, Soul Clap, James Lavel, Basement Jaxx, Francois K, Luke Solomun.

'Joy'
- Pete Tong’s Essential New Tune + Tong asked Bruise to record a Joy themed Essential Mix for BBC Radio 1.
- Premiered by leading dance authority Mixmag.
- Featured in Defected / Faith’s behind the counter.

‘When Pianos Attack’
- Played by Blessed Madonna as an artist to watch 2022!
- Played at Warehouse Project by Graeme Park, and then again by Terry Farley.
- Magnetic Magazines Best of Month

Bruise appeared in Faith Magazines taking a full page for interview with a heavy focus on When Pianos Attack.

Retromigration returns to WOLF Music for his 2nd solo outing on the label with a trademark, warm, jazz-flecked house journey.

Hot property by anyone’s standards, the Amsterdam-based producer stretches his legs across six MPC chopped and screwed heaters, from the punchy, deep deliciousness of ‘Hafenluft’ and sun-soaked vibrations of ‘Mad Fox’, to the bouncing bubbler ‘Tinger’ that features Nephews.

On the flip, the Dam-Funk channeling, keytar cruise ‘Be Alright’ sits side by side with ‘Disk Yard’ and ‘Nur Wir’, two twilight cuts that showcase Retromigration's love of the beats and hip hop scenes whilst putting his own unique spin on them. Another sure-fire example of why you’re seeing Retromigration’s name popping up all over the place right now – pure class from start to finish.

The Minneapolis-raised DJ/Producer’s second album following 2014’s ‘Monoliths’ lands on Radio Slave’s Rekids imprint in November.

Although based in Berlin for several years, Dustin Zahn has continued to exert influence over the fertile but steadfastly underground Minneapolis techno scene as part of the Intellephunk collective whilst cultivating a worldwide rep via releases for Blueprint, Token and his own Enemy Records. The ‘Gain of Function’ LP sees Zahn channelling the groove-fuelled techno of the late ’90s and early ’00s and shaping eight powerful but funky contemporary techno tracks that display the decades of experience under his belt.

Forged from a series of live jams with two drum machines and two synths, the album is a refined collection of raw, purist techno brilliance. Across the A-side ‘Tell Me About Paradise’ brings shimmering staccato chops under bright and airy percussion before ‘Tangie Groove’ picks up the pace with floating pads, vocal slices, and a rumbling bassline. On ‘Lucid Dreams’, scattered percussion plays with hypnotic synth licks, while ‘Smoking in Silence’ sees off-kilter leads dancing between emotive vocals and evolving drum loops.

Opening the second disc is the deep and shuffling ‘Crimson Cheeks’, with trance-inducing samples nestled between sharp drum hits and rolling synthesis, and ‘Days Like These’ takes a darker turn as twinkling arps and droning pads carry the track. ‘Shark Rodeo’ featuring Jeremy Black mangles samples into a dense rolling affair, before closing number ‘Next Level Looseness’ drops the 4/4 pattern for a raucous club track, combining oddball sound sources and unruly production techniques for a trippy finish to the album.

Since the late ’90s, Zahn’s hypnotic and driving techno has consistently caught the ears of top DJs and labels worldwide, with anyone catching his marathon sets at the likes of Berghain exposed to expansive sets. In addition to his techno-heavy catalogue and DJing prowess, Zahn has lent production and engineering skills to bands and singers, recently working with Poliça and on Carm’s Pitchfork approved eponymous album. Beyond this, his vital work with Intellephunk includes the nearly two decades long running Communion after-hours events, cementing his invaluable contributions to the scene.

So strong was EPMD’s epochal debut album ‘Strictly Business’ that it spawned three all-time classic singles, providing part of the soundtrack to, arguably, the height of the original Golden Age. When discussing the landmark artists of that era – Public Enemy, Boogie Down Productions, Eric B & Rakim – the duo of Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith are certainly in the conversation. And when it comes to all-time duos, they might be at the head of the table.

The original release of ‘I’m Housin’ came in 1989, and the only previous 7” release was confined to the UK – it now fetches sky-high prices. Hence this reissue couldn’t be more timely, showcasing just how fresh E Double E and PMD sound over even the most rudimentary but feverishly catchy of beats.

That was their genius – trading ‘slow flow’ punchlines over deceptively simple backings – and that’s exactly what you get here. The loop of Aretha Franklin’s indelible 1971 gem ‘Rock Steady’ does all the heavy lifting musically, the only adornment a brief vocal snippet taken from their own ‘It’s My thing’ – EPMD is a world premiere.

At a time when sampling was still in its infancy, and before producers started to pride themselves on obscurity, and on chopping up samples creatively, this was the approach of many a hip-hop song, and rap was none the poorer for it. When you have voices as distinctive and strong as EPMD, less is more.

Kerri Chandler returns to his own Kaoz Theory label with ‘Prayer’, featuring the vocals of F L Brown, and in true Chandler fashion comprised of a variety of mixes on the single
Over the past twenty releases Kaoz Theory has showcased material from the likes of Ben Rau, Satoshi Tomiie, DJ Sneak, DJ W!ld, Art Department and DJ Deep as well as of course material from the label-boss himself, Kerri Chandler.

Here the latter deliver his latest single, entitled ‘Prayer’ and as the name would suggest channelling gospel house influence in varying forms.

The ‘Media Mix’ leads the way over choppy bass stabs, cinematic piano lines and shuffled 909 drums. Followed by the instrumental for those who like to get the heads down, and just groove.

The ‘623 Again Vocal Mix’ on the flip, shifts things into Dub Techno realms courtesy of a bumpy, driving rhythm, unfaltering stabs and robust low-end tones.

To wrap things up the ‘Feel Mix’ follows next, stripping things back to crunchy drums, airy chords and a snaking bass groove.

Red Splatter Viny

Redscale is back! Fantastic news that was hard to keep secret the last few months. After a solid 3 years of working exclusively on building the Greyscale label, owner grad_u felt its the right time to also focus
on his own music. And we all can't be more happy to hear what he's been up to!
Redscale #10 has all the hallmarks of the classic output but the energy is dialed up to 11. 'Siren' is a pure dancefloor packer! It has that ideal combination of underground techno club power and catchy
supporting chords. Think Aril Brikha's 'Groove La Chord' and you get the idea of a true heater.
'Dancefloor is Dangerous' is on the B-side and it was specifically made for a gig where grad_u showcased his live chops warming up the crown for Jeff Mills. That big club dub techno sound made to perform live in China, Iran, France and others.
This vinyl will come with full printed cover and special center label artwork. Pressed with black and orange splatter effect on transparent red vinyl with one side that even plays inside out! Expect to move
the masses with these 2 showstoppers!
We can't say it enough. Redscale is back!