Suche:modern underground music

Between improv, pop and r&b abstractions, and contemplative balearics, Sam Gendel and Ugné Uma “Tam tikri objektai erdvėje” subtly meanders through a fragile and forward cosmos both inward and out.

Sam Gendel and Ugnė Uma’s Tam Tikri Objektai Erdvėje album sketches a layered, melismatic and intertextual view on what both performers define as a lightness of being. Ugnė Uma’s musical stance is influenced by experimental poetry and Lithuania’s 20th century underground music scene - jazz and folk, resulting from the liberation of the country’s independence movements. Sam Gendel, from Los Angeles, is a saxophonist and producer, proficient on more instruments than the saxophone alone, whose recorded work both solo and collaborative has brought him acclaim as a vital new voice in modern jazz and beyond.

Tam Tikri Objektai Erdvėje is Lithuanian and translates as Some Particular Objects in Space. The six tracks on the album stand for every letter of the word Saturn. They sketch out a sound palette both fragile and full of forward momentum. With hints of improv, sampling their own recorded work and sounds of a childhood’s Yamaha Portasound PSS-290 synth into abstractions of pop and r&b, some of these tracks reach an almost balearic feel, the more contemplative end of it. With lyrics delving into cosmic phenomena, Tam Tikri Objektai Erdvėje is an album about space, whether cosmic or inward or the one in between. It easily surpasses the sum of its influences and the materials and tactics used to produce it.

Building on their shared exploration of forward-leaning UK club sounds, EM + STAV herald the arrival of their new label JoyLift with the Endless EP. Having entrenched themselves within the free-spirited landscape of Bristol’s music community, the pair home in on a focused sound which draws on the city’s storied bass mutations as a springboard for their own take on modernist dance music.

There’s a tough, brooding quality to Endless EP which speaks to the meditative pressure of soundsystem immersion, but equally EM + STAV build out evocative, shifting narratives within that club-ready framework. From dubwise processing to deft sound design, a broad church of processes are wielded to shape out these pieces, and physicality comes in many forms whether in weightless sub lines or pointed, angular drum programming. Given their long-standing connection to developments within the underground music scene, there’s a keen instinct for the dynamic shifts which can set a dance alight, while the ill- defined shape of the wider genre-not-genre allows plenty of space for movement and experimentation.

Alongside the three original productions from EM + STAV, kindred spirit Forest Drive West steps up for a remix of ‘Odd' which aligns with the aesthetic intentions of JoyLift while demonstrating the idiosyncratic qualities associated with the scene’s most vital artists. The cohesive feel of Endless EP extends to Luke Griffin’s artwork, in which natural source material undergoes heavy processing to wind up in a striking new form, shot through with colour but ultimately shrouded in a moodiness that harks back through the lineage of hardcore-rooted UK dance music.

By its very nature the future is unwritten for JoyLift, but EM + STAV’s new project commits itself to an ever-evolving palette of sound, rendered as music with a strong sense of identity - tracks to shake the dance without resorting to obvious tropes, responding to and feeding into the inspiring tides of ideas emanating from the environment around them.

In the late 1980s, Disco was taking a backseat to the burgeoning psychedelic scene in San Francisco, marking a pivotal shift in musical culture. A dynamic transformation was underway as the younger generation sought a fresh auditory adventure, all while the devastating AIDS epidemic cast a somber pall over the city's nightlife. Amidst this evolving backdrop, a subtle yet distinct sonic movement quietly emerged within the confines of San Francisco’s vibrant club scene, often referred to as "The Beat." Although Hip-Hop, New Wave, Gothic, Punk, and the burgeoning Modern Rock genre held considerable sway, the pre-RAVE clubs in SF witnessed the fusion of these genres into a unique amalgam of sound that insiders dubbed “The Beat.” This musical tapestry encompassed everything from Hip-Hop and Freestyle to Industrial, New Wave, Boogie, Miami Bass, and Techno – the unifying thread being the distinctive vibe that characterised this eclectic mix.

As House, Techno, and Raving gradually gained prominence along the West Coast, a distinctive interpretation of these evolving sounds took root. Drawing inspiration from influential hubs like New York, Chicago, Detroit, Europe, and notably the UK, which saw a wave of talented young DJs migrate to California, San Francisco became the backdrop for its own version of the second Summer of Love. While the exact chronology might spark debate – some recalling '92, while others leaning towards '93 – what remains indisputable is the era spanning from 1990 to 1994, an unparalleled epoch of exuberant dancefloor revelry on the western shores.

In the face of limited backing from major labels or established independent dance music entities of the time, a grassroots movement of labels and producers emerged organically, ardently championing this distinct sound and catapulting it onto the global stage. This sonic identity was deeply influenced by “the Beat,” acting as a creative wellspring that informed the musical landscape. While the tracks compiled in these volumes might not encompass the entirety of this transformative musical epoch, they offer a vivid snapshot of the melodious tapestry that coloured San Francisco and the broader West Coast during that era. Each track featured stands as a 100% Sure Shot that was played heavily by DJ Spun back in those very heady days.

The second installment of this remarkable journey into the underground scene maintains the same profound level of depth and significance as its precursor. Showcasing tracks from Electroliners, High Lonesome Soundsystem, Single Cell Orchestra, DJ Emma, and Spun's own Central Fire project, all harmoniously enclosed within the captivating and arresting artwork by Villain Standard, this release stands shoulder to shoulder with its forerunner. Beyond a mere compilation, it's an indispensable extension of the narrative that has indelibly shaped the culture of underground American dance music within the region, embodying the era and the individuals involved. This is the authentic underground sound that reverberated across San Francisco and its surrounding environs, a truly distinctive and exceptional moment in time and space.

Twoonky, the brothers duo from Brescia (Italy) formed by Michele and Simone Bornati, is back on Macadam Mambo for a second album. After their brillantissimo ‘Dezzo’ from 2019, which was well noticed by the underground scene, the new opus ‘Ottico’ won’t leave you static. This is the kind of masterpiece that the more you listen, the more you love.

At the opposite of grandiloquent music that would have immediate effect, ‘Ottico’ is much more subtile, surfing on a cool wave of styles, a collage of vibes going from 70’s Kraut to 90’s Trip-Hop, where the analog sounds of guitars, synths, distorded voices, saxo, samples and electronics FX match so well, creating an ensemble in the unique mutant flow of the Twoonky’s that makes it so intemporal and so modern in the meanwile. It’s not about being curious, it’s about being open on crossing boundaries, like they are used to do with their unique place called Spettro in Brescia, where all the avant-garde of the electronic scene is coming to perform.

‘Ottico’ could be a kind of representation of the spirit of Spettro, and possibly one of the most interesting release of 2023. We don’t know why, but it’s true, Italians do it better 

With Resistance Belgium based Derlich presents his severly stripped down to its essence technoid visions. In avoidance of any irrelevant superstructures RESISTANCE delivers 6 equaly effective Tools ranging from ritual aesthetics with evolving rhythms and variations to unexpected heavy punches and deeply embeded obscurity reminiscent of the early Zhark releases.

Derlich erradicates the lines in genres as industrial, Underground Techno and Dark Ambient Minimalism, heavy strokes clarifies the abstraction of modern life. His passion for art, derelict dark landscapes, and abandoned locations feeds the inspiration to work in his shadowy area of electronic music.

tested 'Then After' EP by New York duo Wild Dark.
'...Stemming from a partnership with two decades of experience behind them, Wild Dark takes on contemporary song-writing and gives it a unique, thoughtful, modern-take using a wide spectrum of electronic music to tell a story. The duo, comprised of brothers Corey & Ryan Negrin, stray from cold digital samples in favour of a warmer approach to writing music. This allows them to merge house, techno and natural vocal work into a cohesive concept that uses soulful yet charming songwriting to nurture a sophisticated palate of contemporary work...'
Then After EP includes two tracks featuring Alex Who 'When we first met Alex there was chemistry off the bat. With inspiration of being young and free, the lyrics and vibe to "Why Not"came together with ease. As the production progressed, the darker tribal elements came to life.
We wanted this track to resonate with the free spirited. This track tends to be a favorite of night.
"Born By The River", A Happy Mistake. The vocals, the elements, the soul, all stemmed from animpromptu recording and this beauty was born. With a list of organic household recordings,accompanied by a warm low end, we aimed to create a track that defied all genres.
"Talky Talkie" is the most club oriented track of the EP, with a persistent groove and synth elements that work perfectly on the dancefloor.
"I'll Wait" brings our bohemian flavour to shine, a track that's comfortable being played anywherefrom Burning Man, lost in the desert to the deep warehouses of Brooklyn's underground.
The digital release will include a special remix by Superlounge, a German duo known for their smooth house vibes. This is a must have release, available first on the label's shop online;

t r u e C o l o r s
A Brooklyn / London based record label that channels artist's most honest version of their
creations and shares it with the world through vinyl and digital platforms.

Broadside has never been a band to stay in one place for too long—musically or otherwise. The Richmond, Virginia-based band has spent the past decade carving out their own space in the pop rock scene. Drawing influence from The Killers, AFI, Kings of Leon, and Taking Back Sunday, their sound seamlessly fuses nostalgic rock energy with a fresh, modern edge. Their evolution has been nothing short of remarkable, taking them from underground favorites to genre staples, all while embracing the idea that growth and change are not just inevitable but necessary. With Oliver Baxxter (vocals), Domenic Reid (guitar), and Patrick Diaz (bass/backup vocals) at the helm, Broadside has built a career on crafting music that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.

Their last full-length album, Hotel Bleu, served as a bold chapter in their story, using the transient nature of hotel stays as a metaphor for self-reflection, fleeting moments, and personal reinvention. The album marked a significant milestone in their career, amassing over 100 million streams and standing as their boldest, brightest, and most ambitious work to date. Now, as they prepare to enter their next era, the band is gearing up to release their most dynamic music yet, continuing to evolve while staying true to the energy and authenticity that first captivated listeners.

Broadside has never been a band to stay in one place for too long—musically or otherwise. The Richmond, Virginia-based band has spent the past decade carving out their own space in the pop rock scene. Drawing influence from The Killers, AFI, Kings of Leon, and Taking Back Sunday, their sound seamlessly fuses nostalgic rock energy with a fresh, modern edge. Their evolution has been nothing short of remarkable, taking them from underground favorites to genre staples, all while embracing the idea that growth and change are not just inevitable but necessary.

With Oliver Baxxter (vocals), Domenic Reid (guitar), and Patrick Diaz (bass/backup vocals) at the helm, Broadside has built a career on crafting music that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. Their last full-length album, Hotel Bleu, served as a bold chapter in their story, using the transient nature of hotel stays as a metaphor for self-reflection, fleeting moments, and personal reinvention. The album marked a significant milestone in their career, amassing over 100 million streams and standing as their boldest, brightest, and most ambitious work to date. Now, as they prepare to enter their next era, the band is gearing up to release their most dynamic music yet, continuing to evolve while staying true to the energy and authenticity that first captivated listeners.

Knowledge The Pirate returns with a powerful new statement with his new album, The Round Table, which is now available. The Round Table is produced in its entirety by longtime collaborator and legend Roc Marciano through his Pimpire International imprint.

With roots in New York’s revered ‘90s hip-hop scene, Knowledge The Pirate has steadily built a reputation as one of the genre’s most consistent and authentic voices. A frequent Roc Marci collaborator and key figure in the modern underground renaissance, Knowledge fuses golden-age grit with new wave innovation—bridging generations while staying firmly rooted in New York’s timeless sound.

Since his 2018 debut Flintlock, Knowledge has carved a lane entirely his own through his label Treasure Chest Entertainment, Inc. With five acclaimed projects under his belt, including the recent 5lbs of Pressure, he continues to deliver unfiltered street wisdom and personal reflection in every bar.

The Round Table stands as a testament to his evolution—an uncompromising body of work laced with Roc Marciano’s signature production and Knowledge’s lived-in lyricism. It’s not just a record—it’s a meeting of the minds, an audio council of kings.

“The Round Table is cinematic storytelling, teaching street knowledge, eating etiquette that will save your life” Knowledge professes. “This album is like an Honorable Elijah Muhammad book; How To Eat To Live. Produced fully by the true creator of the new wave sound, Roc Marciano, you are all invited to a seat at The Round Table; and break bread with the true Godfathers of this new wave rap renaissance.”

Delivering the second sermon in their Disco Gospel series, Chicago’s Sadar Bahar & Marc Davis hand-pick and re-edit two more under-the-radar disco/gospel fusion tracks for the modern dancefloor.

Both revered selectors and producers, Marc and Sadar are integral parts of Chicago's underground music scene, sharing the city’s spirit with the world. Through his own label, Black Pegasus, and the Chi Talo series, Marc has become an in-demand DJ known for his raw and eclectic sets. He joins forces with good friend, DJ’s DJ and Soul In The Hole head Sadar Bahar, whose name regularly tops the bill at some of the finest clubs and festivals around the globe.

Digging deep once again, the pair serve up two certified secret weapons from their renowned collections. Finding that sweet spot that drew out the most uplifting, powerful, and danceable elements of both gospel and disco, they shine a light on two beauties from Myrna Summers and also The Yancy Family. Tweaked and re-edited with style and consideration, they re-work the tracks with DJs and dancers in mind.

As Robert M. Marovich of Journal of Gospel Music puts it, “The rise of contemporary gospel music in the 1970s and 1980s changed the style, if not the substance, of Black sacred music. Artists, including the Yancy Family and Myrna Summers, worked within the groovy new sound to attract the attention of a generation growing up on rock, jazz, pop, and soul. Bring them into the church through the music, the maxim goes, and they’ll stay for the sermon. Likewise, these two re-edited album tracks by Sadar Bahar and Marc Davis keep the gospel music heritage alive while encouraging a brand-new generation to dance through the church doors.”

Up first, Myrna Summers ‘So Much to Live For’ channels that straight from the heart passion and collective joy that gospel embodies. Bursting with uplifting lyrics, scintillating organ melodies, and an infectious sing-along spirit, Marc and Sadar give it a club-ready DJ edit, extending it for maximum dancefloor deliverance.

The B side sees the duo work their magic on, ‘Lifted Me Higher’. Written by Kevin Yancy and taken from the Yancy Family’s 1989 album From One Christian Family to Another, it features vocals from siblings Kevin, Judy, and Rev. Darryl Yancy, along with Lois Scott. The all-star team of Chicago musicians includes Sherwin (Butch) Yancy on organ, Michael Wade on piano and synthesizer, and Richard Gibbs (longtime accompanist for Aretha Franklin) on piano and bass. With a soulful boogie flavour, dripping in slap bass and ‘80s synthlines, Marc and Sadar rework the intro so it rides out on a section of delectable instrumental grooves, before letting the glorious vocals hit home.

As a torchbearer of gritty lyricism and unapologetic authenticity, Conway The Machine takes the helm to introduce the world to the burgeoning talents that make up the Drumwork roster, a powerhouse assembly of artists ready to reshape the landscape of rap music.

At the forefront of the album stands Conway The Machine, delivering blistering verses and commanding attention with his trademark grit and authenticity. But "Drumwork Collective" is more than just a solo endeavor; it's a collaborative effort featuring guest appearances by Rome Streetz, Benny The Butcher, 38 Spesh, and others. Each artist brings their unique perspective to the table, adding layers of depth and complexity to the project.

Behind the boards, producers like Beat Butcha, Graymatter, Trizzy Williams, and more craft a sonic landscape that's as gritty as it is innovative. From soulful samples to hard-hitting drums, the production on this compilation sets the stage for the lyrical onslaught that follows, blending traditional boom-bap aesthetics with a modern edge. Together, these elements form a cohesive tapestry that captures the essence of hip-hop's underground renaissance, proving that the beat truly does strike back.

Crave Tapes is thrilled to announce the first vinyl release on the label which will be the second album from Frankfurt's underground post-punk/dark wave band Babes of Enola Grey, Krieg und Wohlstand.
Krieg und Wohlstand sees Babes of Enola Grey follow the path of their 2021 debut, Anfang vom Ende, and take a step further into the realm of melancholic and disillusioned soundscapes. While keeping a certain retro character to the songs, Deborah Vision, Salvador Islero and Fabian van Castorp focus on quite contemporary themes, which some might call the most German obsessions:
War and prosperity.
But this is not the only reference to the band's heritage. Sometimes more, sometimes less, there are musical allusions to various German influences and contributions to (modern) music and music history. While Doppelt Frei is a nod to EBM and bands like DAF or the early Die Krupps and Wie auf Schienen as well as Die Heuschrecken pay homage to German düster punk bands like Fliehende Stürme or EA80, Panik and the title track Krieg und Wohlstand refer to the romantic German art song tradition of the 19th century (not to mention the obvious hint at a certain successful German Schlager in Die Kugeln und das Herz).
This makes Krieg und Wohlstand not only a worthy epigone of the band's debut, but also takes the album and the artistic approach to another level.
Commenting on the chosen format (12" vinyl), the band members said: "It was clear to us that we wanted to release this album on vinyl. When you look atGerman history, war and prosperity have to be seen as two sides of the same medal, or in this case of a record".

Hip-hop royalty returns—Bun B and Statik Selektah team up once again for the fourth chapter of their blazing collabo-rative saga: TrillStatik 4. Recorded in real-time with that unmistakable underground urgency, this album is a master-class in modern rap chemistry, blending Bun B’s Southern grit with Statik’s boom-bap precision.

The guest lineup is nothing short of legendary. From DJ Premier setting the tone on “Live From Houston,” to Griselda heavyweights Westside Gunn, Conway The Machine, and Boldy James blessing “Trillselda 2,” every track hits with purpose. Regional flair runs deep, too—Paul Wall, Maxo Kream, and Lil’ Keke represent H-Town with pride, while East Coast lyricists like Termanology and Tek bring bar-for-bar fire.

This is more than a record—it’s a cipher of cultures, connecting street narratives, soul-drenched beats, and coast-to-coast talent.

"Collected Works and War of the Martian Ghosts" ist die ultimative Sammlung von Aufnahmen der lebenden Chicagoer DIY-Legende Dr. Charles Joseph Smith. Es ist auch die erste Archivveröffentlichung von Sooper Records aus Chicago. Die Musik hier ist zum ersten Mal überhaupt für alle zugänglich. Diese 90-minütige Sammlung umfasst 30 Jahre von Charles' selbstveröffentlichter Musik, darunter Konzertklavier, elektroakustische Experimente, elektronische Beats, freie Improvisation und zwei Instrumentalversionen seiner sich weiterentwickelnden Science-Fiction-Oper "War of the Martian Ghosts" (eine elektronische Version von 2023 und eine Klavierversion von 2018). Diese Doppel-Vinyl-/Dreifach-CD-Sammleredition enthält ein umfangreiches Booklet mit 9000 Wörtern über das Leben und Werk des Künstlers sowie Gedichten, Interviews, Zitaten und 30 Archivfotos. Dies ist ein Stück Musikgeschichte Chicagos. Die bemerkenswerte Geschichte von Dr. Charles Joseph Smith beginnt mit der musikalischen Begabung eines stummen Kindes und der zielstrebigen Art und Weise, wie er dieses Talent förderte, um es zu seiner Lebensaufgabe und Daseinsberechtigung zu machen. Charles erzählt von dieser künstlerischen Reise in seiner Autobiografie ,The 88 Keys that Opened Doors", einem selbst veröffentlichten Buch, das ein Leben beschreibt, in dem Musik der wichtigste Schlüssel war (und immer noch ist), um die großen Herausforderungen durch Autismus-Spektrum-Störungen (ASD) zu meistern. Seine Karriere als Musiker startet in der Kirche, führt ihn in die internationale Konzertszene und endet schließlich in Chicagos experimenteller Underground-Szene, wo sie seltsame Früchte trägt. Auf diesem Weg hat Charles Joseph Smiths kompositorische Stimme populäre Musik von Pop bis Jazz, den Gospel der Kirche, den Kanon des klassischen Konservatoriums, moderne Tanzmusik und den regelbrechenden Experimentalismus der DIY-Subkultur seiner Stadt, in der er seit über 30 Jahren eine tragende Rolle spielt, aufgenommen und verarbeitet. Seit Mitte der 1990er Jahre tritt Charles auf, tanzt und verkauft seine selbst veröffentlichten Musik- und Schriftwerke persönlich, oft bei lokalen Shows, die er regelmäßig besucht. In Chicago ist er als lebendes Symbol für die Kraft der Musik und den beliebten Gemeinschaftsgeist im Herzen der DIY-Szene bekannt. Dies ist die definitive Sammlung seiner Originalaufnahmen - auch wenn es unmöglich wäre, die ganze Bandbreite der Musik, Poesie und Prosa des produktiven Dr. Charles Joseph Smith zu erfassen.

Two original house cuts. One statement. Soulbound / Abracadabra lands as a double-header single as part of our new XPRESS Singles Series, bridging gritty South London soul with slick Franco-American house energy - a release designed for the salubrious moments on the dance floor.

“Soulbound” sees Bustin’ Loose deliver cutting-edge disco-soul infused house music straight from the concrete textures of South London. Sung and produced by Bustin’ Loose himself, the track rides a pumping, elastic bassline with warm strings and raw vocal emotion - modern house with classic soul DNA. Capturing the energy of London's expansive music culture, Soulbound is both uplifting, euphoric and street-wise. Inspired by the music of Fatboy Slim, rappers like JME and Ghetts and the club culture of London.

On the flip side, “Abracadabra” from Magnolia & Sam Karlson featuring LA wordsmith Relaye drips with French house sensibilities, blending glossy filters, catchy wah guitar and punchy grooves with razor-sharp rap vocals. Imagine Music Sounds Better With You colliding with the cool charisma of Q-Tip - hypnotic, stylish, and irresistibly repeatable.

The remix package pushes the release deeper into club territory:

• Dam Swindle transform Soulbound into a deep, bumping underground roller, rich in groove and late-night atmosphere.
• Phil Weeks delivers a signature Ghetto Mix of Abracadabra, crafted with his beloved MPC sampler - raw drums, stripped-back funk, and a pure nod to house music’s roots.
• La Felix closes the circle with a nostalgic, early-2010s-tinged deep remix of Abracadabra, balancing modern polish with timeless dance-floor warmth.

The track shows SUEP at their best - glistening synth pop with Marr-esque jangle, sweet but emotionally incisive. Singer Georgie Stott - also known for being the keyboardist of the recently ended Porridge Radio - is at peak performance, marrying catchy melodies with off-kilter storytelling.
Receiving acclaim across BBC 6 Music and the indie press for their ‘car boot sale’ pop music, SUEP rummage through the jumble bin of music history, selecting and reassembling its best parts into something playful, strange and deeply artful. The band are affiliates of the Gob Nation collective - including The Tubs, Sniffany & The Nits, Ex-Void, and others., described by the Guardian as uniting around “a leftfield sensibility, lacerating wit and snotty attitude.”

With a slightly darker edge than their delightful EP Shop or last year’s groovy The Rain, Highway II tells the story of hope slamming into disappointment - a Valentine’s date gone wrong. Tears, cigarette breaks, running makeup and snotty sleeves paint a picture of painful emotional dislocation. It comes with an incredible, multilayered dance-routine music video from frequent collaborator, artist Jess Power.

Singer Georgie Stott says: “The lyrics for this poured out of me on Valentine’s Day when me and my partner went out on a date in the Limehouse area, over the river from where we lived in Rotherhithe. I got drunk too quickly, he got grumpy, and tears started streaming down my face because I just wanted to have a nice romantic time. We made up in the Canary Wharf Wetherspoons at the end of the night, but I went to have a cigarette before, to get out all my sobs and wrote all the lyrics on my phone in one go. Then at a practice studio we quickly wrote it around some chords I made up in the room.”
Forever is a confident debut, a masterpiece of modern indie songcraft. Across the album SUEP dip into country, synthpop, garage rock, post punk, and pub rock, but always retain their signature penchant for melodic hooks, snappy structures and straight-to-the-heart lyrics. Artfully unpretentious, the album was recorded by friend Matt Green, best known for his work with The Tubs, and mixed by Mike O’Malley of the band caroline.

Led by Georgie Stott and Joshua Harvey, SUEP have become fixtures of south-east London’s underground through a series of shared living spaces, improvised studios and DIY venues. Now with George Nicholls (The Tubs, Joanna Gruesome, GN Band), William Deacon (PC World), and Louis Forster (The Goon Sax, Expiry) completing the line up, their debut is finally on its way.
Forever is a glimpse into one of the best bands on the scene, not fitting into any trend, but also never fading into obscurantism - SUEP are a band that wear a joie de vivre loosely but fashionably. Now is their time to shine.

Boutique-pressed 7" vinyls A-side: "Wonderin'" / B-side: "Dream"

Drawing influence from the likes of CAN, Faust, Mahavishnu Orchestra, and David Vorkhaus, Shakti Soundsystem traverses the borderlands of psychedelic rock, Krautrock, jazz fusion, and ritual improvisation. But this isn't a retro trip—this is future folklore.

Each track is a trance in motion, built on hypnotic basslines, spiraling melodies, and moments of ecstatic dissonance. The instrumentation is as unconventional as the process: Bulbul Tarang, modular synths, guitars, drums, and vocals that oscillate between invocation and surrender.



Their first singles have already made waves across tastemaker blogs and listener-curated Spotify playlists, includingNeo-Psychedelia, Psych Rock Melting Pot, Rock for when 26 King Gizzard albums aren't enoug and Psychedelic & Space Rock.

"Wonderin',"described by Analogue Trash (UK) as "an absorbing, psychedelic jam that thrives on hypnotic repetition and a raw, live energy,"introduced their trance-infused sound to a wider audience.
"Silver," hailed by RMAS (Mexico) as"a hypnotic journey between Krautrock and spoken word... a sonic delirium that recalls CAN and the free spirit of the European underground," cements their place in the modern psych scene.

Past Due Records is thrilled to announce the release of Midnight Blue's "One Wish - South Carolina 1975-83," a compilation showcasing the legendary funk and modern soul band from Columbia. This limited edition double LP compilation is an exclusive collection highlighting the band's peak during the mid-1980s American boogie funk era. Formed in 1975, Midnight Blue blended the talents of local musicians Myron Alford, Robert Hoefer, Jr., Ronnie Amiker, and many others. Despite their underground status, their music left a lasting impact, performing alongside legends like Midnight Star and Prince. The compilation includes their debut single "Feel It and Groove Together," their powerful rendition of "I Who Have Nothing," and unreleased tracks recorded with Cameo's Larry Blackmon. Fan favorites such as "All Because of You" and "Coolin' Out" will also be featured. This double LP comes with a full story and many never-before-seen pictures of the band, making it a must-have for any fan of eighties funk, courtesy of Past Due Records.

Special Friend have become the masters of weaving elegant and sophisticated pop musical webs while staying true to their low-fi indiepop roots. The French/American duo (Guillaume on guitar and vocals, Erica on drums and vocals) manage to create a sound like no other band. When they play live, audiences marvel at the huge, intricate structures the band construct, while falling in love with the crystal-clear vocal melodies that are threaded in between the shards of guitar and the rattle of the drums. How can a duo achieve so much? UK audiences will be able to ponder this question in March: Special Friend are coming over from France to do a substantial tour of the UK. These shows are highly recommended!
The new album is more diverse that the last, with the high-tempo indiepop of first single ‘Breakfast’, the majestic, Yo La Tengo-like dreampop of ‘Clipping’ and the country-ish, gentle, homesick melancholy of ‘Isolation’. Final track ‘OOO’ is a bold piece of Krautrock-inspired experimentation; ‘Mold’ is a beautiful slice of slowcore and opener ‘Paint A Picture’ is modern pop at its catchiest and most direct.

‘Clipping’, the album title, refers to the discipline of pruning growth back, removing dead wood to create a perfectly shaped tree with abundant blossoms: an accurate description of the album, and of the songs that hang from its elegant branches. The album artwork is by Erica: Special Friend are in control of every aspect of this elegant artefact.
‘Clipping’ was recorded in 2025 at Studio Claudio by Alexis Fugain and Margaux Bouchaudon. Set in an isolated rural environment conducive to immersion, the band had seven days in the studio—significantly more than for previous records—allowing for greater care in the recording process, particularly for vocals and arrangements. Several tracks feature synthesizers and organs, acoustic guitar, and even an electric bass on “Sanctuary,” a first for Special Friend. Overall, the record benefits from a more developed and detailed production while preserving the band’s direct approach and spontaneity.

The album was mixed by Syd Kemp, who has worked with artists such as Thurston Moore, Ulrika Spacek, Caroline, Crack Cloud, and Vanishing Twin.
Special Friend’s previous album on Skep Wax, ‘Wait Until The Flames Come Rushing In’ was an underground hit, with a significant amount of airplay in the UK and in the US.
‘Clipping’ is a co-release with Howlin Banana Records and Hidden Bay Records (both in France). Skep Wax is proud to present the album in the UK and in North America.

Crave Tapes is thrilled to announce the first vinyl release on the label which will be the second album from Frankfurt's underground post-punk/dark wave band Babes of Enola Grey, Krieg und Wohlstand.
Krieg und Wohlstand sees Babes of Enola Grey follow the path of their 2021 debut, Anfang vom Ende, and take a step further into the realm of melancholic and disillusioned soundscapes. While keeping a certain retro character to the songs, Deborah Vision, Salvador Islero and Fabian van Castorp focus on quite contemporary themes, which some might call the most German obsessions:
War and prosperity.
But this is not the only reference to the band's heritage. Sometimes more, sometimes less, there are musical allusions to various German influences and contributions to (modern) music and music history. While Doppelt Frei is a nod to EBM and bands like DAF or the early Die Krupps and Wie auf Schienen as well as Die Heuschrecken pay homage to German düster punk bands like Fliehende Stürme or EA80, Panik and the title track Krieg und Wohlstand refer to the romantic German art song tradition of the 19th century (not to mention the obvious hint at a certain successful German Schlager in Die Kugeln und das Herz).
This makes Krieg und Wohlstand not only a worthy epigone of the band's debut, but also takes the album and the artistic approach to another level.
Commenting on the chosen format (12" vinyl), the band members said: "It was clear to us that we wanted to release this album on vinyl. When you look atGerman history, war and prosperity have to be seen as two sides of the same medal, or in this case of a record".

WRWTFWW Records is very pleased to announce the first-ever vinyl release of Art Form 2, the seminal 1998 Various Artists compilation from Tokyo’s cult label FORM@ RECORDS, now available as a limited edition double LP housed in a heavyweight sleeve, as part of the ongoing collaborative series between the Swiss and Japanese labels.
Initially available only in CD form, Art Form 2 emerges as a quiet artifact from an exploratory phase in FORM@ RECORDS’ late-1990s trajectory. The compilation drifts through the deeper layers of Tokyo’s electronic underground, where IDM, techno, ambient, and downtempo dissolve into one another within an atmosphere of deliberate experimentation. Both intimate and forward-looking, it preserves a moment in which a local scene, largely unseen, was patiently reshaping the future beyond the reach of prevailing global narratives.
Flowing with carefully sculpted rhythms, immersive sound design, and a subtle sense of machine soul, Art Form 2 reflects the maturity of the FORM@ aesthetic in 1998. The compilation resonates with the spirit of Warp’s Artificial Intelligence era, Carl Craig’s melodic futurism, Ken Ishii’s cerebral techno, B12’s deep electronics, and Ian O’Brien’s emotive touch, while remaining unmistakably rooted in its own local context. Timeless and singular, it stands as a beautifully preserved time capsule of underground electronic music.
Following the vinyl excavations of Virgo’s Landform Code (1998) and Remnants (1999), Art Form 2 continues WRWTFWW Records’ collaboration with FORM@ RECORDS. It is released simultaneously with Art Form I (1997), further expanding this archival series, which will continue with the forthcoming vinyl edition of Re-Form Ver-1.0 (1999).

"The Outfit release career defining new album, Preservers of the Pearl, asserting themselves as messengers of the new wave of underground rock and roll, pushing the movement forward alongside fellow trailblazers Mystery Lights, Sheer Mag, Shadow Show, Uni Boys + more.

Everything has been leading here. Daniel Romano shifts from his position as sole writer, opening the floor to Outfit stalwarts Ian Romano and Carson McHone, and welcoming into the fold longtime friend and legendary Canadian rock-n-roller, Tommy Major. The band is functioning as a true collective — multiple voices and perspectives — all serving one creative pulse. The result is both a new beginning and a homecoming, a complete and fearless statement.

Tracked to tape at their own Camera Varda studio, the album captures the band live in the room — breathing, musing, and believing. It’s the sound of human hands and hearts at work, in a shared moment of co-creation, preserved in real time in stunning hi-fi.

Here is music as communion — rock n roll as experience. Preservers of the Pearl rejects the flattening forces in modern times — what the band calls “the mono-agriculture of the mind.” In a “target culture”, condemned to homogeny and banality, The Outfit refuse polish and uniformity, embracing imperfection as truth, and promoting curiosity through creativity. At the center of it all is a deep spiritual current — what The Outfit calls Rock & Roll Magick: the belief that music is a sacred act, a force that can reconnect the individual to what is larger.

The Outfit are making music that is purposeful and profoundly urgent. Preservers of the Pearl is an invocation - it’s fearless in a time of great compromise, and resolute in an age of peripheral bullshit. Here is a band serving something greater than themselves."

"The Outfit release career defining new album, Preservers of the Pearl, asserting themselves as messengers of the new wave of underground rock and roll, pushing the movement forward alongside fellow trailblazers Mystery Lights, Sheer Mag, Shadow Show, Uni Boys + more.

Everything has been leading here. Daniel Romano shifts from his position as sole writer, opening the floor to Outfit stalwarts Ian Romano and Carson McHone, and welcoming into the fold longtime friend and legendary Canadian rock-n-roller, Tommy Major. The band is functioning as a true collective — multiple voices and perspectives — all serving one creative pulse. The result is both a new beginning and a homecoming, a complete and fearless statement.

Tracked to tape at their own Camera Varda studio, the album captures the band live in the room — breathing, musing, and believing. It’s the sound of human hands and hearts at work, in a shared moment of co-creation, preserved in real time in stunning hi-fi.

Here is music as communion — rock n roll as experience. Preservers of the Pearl rejects the flattening forces in modern times — what the band calls “the mono-agriculture of the mind.” In a “target culture”, condemned to homogeny and banality, The Outfit refuse polish and uniformity, embracing imperfection as truth, and promoting curiosity through creativity. At the center of it all is a deep spiritual current — what The Outfit calls Rock & Roll Magick: the belief that music is a sacred act, a force that can reconnect the individual to what is larger.

The Outfit are making music that is purposeful and profoundly urgent. Preservers of the Pearl is an invocation - it’s fearless in a time of great compromise, and resolute in an age of peripheral bullshit. Here is a band serving something greater than themselves."

For more than three decades, Converge have delivered musical and emotional catharsis, putting purpose before perception and intent before interpretation. Whether it’s their 2001 landmark recording Jane Doe or their 2021 Bloodmoon: I collaboration with Chelsea Wolfe, they have created some of the most compelling music, lyrics, and visual art of the 21st century. During that time, fewer bands have had a greater impact on the underground imagination. It seems unlikely that anyone who has been making music for this long would create one of their best works for their eleventh album, in their 35th year as a band. And yet: Love is Not Enough might be the apotheosis of Converge’s decades-long journey through the punk, hardcore and metal microcosm. What vocalist/lyricist Jacob Bannon, guitarist/producer Kurt Ballou, bassist/vocalist Nate Newton and drummer Ben Koller have created is a strident artistic statement on the turmoil of living that hones their collective strengths to a razor’s edge. There isn’t an ounce of fat. Every song moves with a power and purpose that eclipses their human origins, that speaks to the anger, pain, and frustration of the modern age.

Far from being a nostalgic exercise, the record reasserts their daring artistry, merging legacy and rebirth. Known for melodic minimalism, elegant melancholy, and pulsing electronics, the band has often been compared to Depeche Mode, New Order, or Joy Division, yet their singular identity has always set them apart. On this new album, they reinvent their sonic language, blending vintage synths with classical textures and luminous modern production. The result is a sensory journey where light and shadow converse, where poetry meets pulse, reaffirming their timeless relevance. Their influence extends across genres: sampled by Madlib, reinterpreted by Tricky, reimagined by Theophilus London, and remixed by DJs such as Marcel Dettmann. Tributes, reissues, and appearances in cinema and fashion underscore their resonance, from Lucie Borleteau's Chanson Douce movie to catwalks by Chloe.

Born in Marseille in the early 1980s and led by Alain Seghir alongside Catherine Loy , Brigitte Balian , and Beverley Jane Crew , Martin Dupont left a mythic legacy with tracks like ' Inside Ou't and 'Just Because...' before dissolving in 1987. Rediscovered through Minimal Wave reissues, their music captivated a new generation of underground and electronic enthusiasts. Today, Martin Dupont are reborn. Seghir and Crew, joined by Sandy Casado, Thierry Sintoni, and Olivier Leroy, embark on a world tour that affirms their unique ability to move and inspire. You Smile When It Hurts proves that their visionary sound has never been more alive

Grammy award-winning titan of dance music Purple Disco Machine joins the illustrious list of Defected House Masters with a celebratory compilation. The German producer, DJ and global household name Tino Pointek, AKA Purple Disco Machine, is the blueprint for what makes a successful dance music artist in the modern age; respected on the underground scene while achieving major crossover success with remixes for the likes of Sir Elton John, Dua Lipa and Mark Ronson. The crate digging kingpin of house and disco first landed on Defected over a decade ago, and has since delivered remixes of iconic tracks like Fatboy Slim’s ‘Praise You’ and the London label’s top tracks including Shakedown’s ‘At Night’ and ‘Coma Cat’ by Tensnake – as well as striking originals like ‘Beat Fantasy’. From edits of the classics to remixes of the modern, as well as uplifting originals, Purple Disco Machine has birthed a distinct sound that is instantly recognisable, one that is not afraid to reference or not reference and is always bursting with joy. Across Defected presents House Masters: Purple Disco Machine, the full breadth of the iconic German selector’s sound is felt from the 2019 smash hit ‘Dished (Male Stripper)’ to deep cuts like his re-work of Fallout’s ‘The Morning After’ as well as remixes of legendary tracks like ‘Lola’s Theme’ by The Shapeshifters and Spiller’s ‘Groovejet’ featuring Sophie Ellis-Bextor. Defected presents House Masters: Purple Disco Machine is here to showcase the sound of a bona fide electronic maverick in full.

Dictaphone are back with their 6th full length called "Unstable". In the 25th year of the project Brussels born composer and mastermind Oliver Doerell is surrounded again by a lot of musicians & friends. Roger Döring is there, his clarinet and saxophone play has always been a trademark sound of the band - also Alexander Stolze's ghostly violins. The dark atmosphere and experimental sound of the new album is a reference to the 80s belgian art music scene, which Doerell had the luck to experience in his formative years. Minimal jazz meets musique concrete meets a postpunk mind. On this new album “Unstable“ more voices and vocals than usual can be heard - especially Helga Raimondi (who already sang on the last album “Goats and Distortions 5") . As a collage artist she is also responsible for the visual side of Dictaphone - she designed the cover artwork and the visuals for the live shows.

The Brussels-Berlin-Teheran connection: Other guests on "Unstable" are the voices of Kaveh Ghaemi and Ashkan Afsharian, who Doerell met during a modern ballet production by Modjgan Hashemian (2008). The trumpet of Shahab Anousha can be heard in the track “La fin“ - Oliver Doerell and Shahab Anousha also share the spoken words Project “Noufān”. For nearly 20 years Oliver Doerell is linked to the Iranian Diaspora in Berlin and the Dictaphone track “Rattle” from the classic album “ Poems from a rooftop “ (2012) has been a hit in Teherans underground scene since the beginning. Furthermore the title track “Unstable“ is a homage to Ian Curtis of Joy Division. The words of this piece are based on the setlist of Joy Divisions last show.

Dictaphone played more than two hundred shows all over the world (including festivals Mutek, Transmediale, Unsound , Benicassim and many others). Their music can be heard in countless films, tv series and theatre pieces - (“the responder“ (BBC) , “the love he knows” (Ali Mohammad) , “Don´t move“ (Modjgan Hashemian) , Ring (Felix Ruckert) among others.

A unique collaboration between two of the most inquisitive and important artists in modern avant-garde electronic music.

Paper Masks marks a striking new collaboration between visionary Mute labelmates Phew and Danielle de Picciotto. Developed quietly over nearly five years, what began as an experiment between friends gradually evolved into a fulllength album. Phew composed and arranged all the music, weaving in dePicciotto’s voice and freely reshaping it to create something entirely new. Performed in both German and English, the result is an exploratory work that balances electronic minimalism with emotional immediacy.

Described by Pitchfork as “a Japanese underground legend”, Phew - former member of Osaka punk pioneers Aunt Sally - has forged a remarkable solo career, collaborating with Ryuichi Sakamoto, members of Can, and many others. In parallel, Danielle de Picciotto, an American-born interdisciplinary artist based in Berlin, co-founded the Berlin Love Parade and has performed internationally, working with Crime & the City Solution, Gudrun Gut, Space Cowboys, and her partner Alexander Hacke (Einstürzende Neubauten and frequent Phew collaborator) in hackedepicciotto.

Paper Masks stands as a mesmerizing exchange between two singular voices in experimental music - an intimate dialogue across distance, language, and sound, and a compelling addition to both artists’ evolving legacies.

Available on limited edition jellyfish color vinyl, featuring lyrics and poetry, and on CD, housed in an eco card-pack with a lyrics and poetry booklet.

Two of the most respected voices in the underground connect for a heavyweight collaboration that's been a long time coming — BULLETPROOF CHICKEN is out now!

CRIMEAPPLE, the bilingual New Jersey spitter known for razor-sharp wordplay and a steady run of cult-favorite projects like Aguardiente and his collaborations with DJ Muggs, cementing his spot as a force in modern hip-hop.

On the boards, V DON has become a staple for his signature dark, cinematic production style. From Harlem to the world, he’s laced tracks for the likes of Boldy James, Estee Nack, A$AP Rocky, Dave East, Benny The Butcher among several otehrs, while also building his own lane with the underground classics like Omerta and his Deutsche Marks and Blue Note series with Willie The Kid. His beats balance grit and atmosphere, making him one of the most sought-after producers in the underground and beyond.

With BULLETPROOF CHICKEN, the two bring their worlds together — sharp rhymes, moody textures, and guest appearances from T.F, Bruiser Wolf, and Primo Profit only add more weight. This album is a testament to where both artists are right now, rising higher with every drop, carrying the underground to new levels.

As the man who basically brought the conga into the modern age with his innovative multipercussion set-ups and tunable congas, and as a former member of Dizzy Gillespie and Stan Kenton’s bands, Cándido Camero Guerra a.k.a. Candido already had a long and storied career when he cut Dancin’ and Prancin’ for the Salsoul label in 1979 at the age of 58. So, you might have been excused at the time for assuming this was just another case of an old-timer trying to cash in on the disco craze, right? But you would have been very, very wrong…the record was pure brilliance, as the infusion of Candido’s Latin conga beats into the disco-fied 4 x 4 syncopated rhythm proved irresistible, revolutionizing the sound of underground disco while pointing the way to the house music to come. Indeed, both “Jingo” (an unstoppable version of the Olatunji classic) and “Thousand Finger Man” are still DJ favorites. Speaking of DJs, we’re putting this one out on black vinyl, perfect for queueing up and spinning. for A must for any dance music library!

Nick Holder’s Iconic ‘Dance, Dance, Dance’ Finally Arrives Digitally with New Remixes from Jason Hodges and Trackheadz.
Definitive Recordings proudly presents a long-awaited milestone: the first-ever digital release of ‘Dance, Dance, Dance’ by Nick Holder’s Fruit
Loops project, originally released in 1995 and repressed countless times on vinyl since. This timeless house anthem, a pure expression of discodriven groove, now returns remastered and refreshed — accompanied by two brand-new remixes from fellow Toronto house legends Jason
Hodges and Trackheadz.

The original version of ‘Dance, Dance, Dance’ captures the raw magic of mid-90s house — a stripped yet irresistible jam that fuses classic 70s
disco sampling with a deep, rolling bassline and a straight house groove. It’s simple, it’s soulful, and it’s pure disco-house sexiness.
Jason Hodges delivers a playful rework that modernizes the cut while keeping its soul intact. His remix adds shuffled percussion, chopped vocals,
and a subtly reworked bassline — injecting a fresh rhythmic twist that stays true to the track’s roots while enhancing its dancefloor punch.
Trackheadz then takes the track into deeper territory, layering lush synth chords, organ lines, and sweeping strings over a steady, hypnotic build
— a masterclass in musicality and atmosphere for the late-night crowd.

A true veteran of Toronto’s house scene, Nick Holder rose to international acclaim in the late ’90s and early 2000s with releases on Definitive,
NRK, Stickmen, and Studio K7, shaping the sound of deep and soulful house. As the founder of DNH Records, he’s been a driving force behind
countless underground classics, including ‘Da Sambafrique’, ‘Trying to Find Myself’, and ‘Summer Daze’.
Jason Hodges, another staple of the Toronto underground, is known for his tough yet groovy sound that bridges New York swing and Chicago
grit. Having remixed the likes of DJ Sneak, Derrick Carter, DJ Heather, and Kaskade, Hodges continues to be a name synonymous with timeless,
floor-filling house. Trackheadz, helmed by Kaje Trackheadz, brings decades of experience in blending sweet strings, soulful brass, and deep club
energy. Responsible for underground staples like ‘Our Music’ and ‘Feel’, he has remixed everyone from Todd Terry to The Sunburst Band, and
continues to expand his vision through Trackheadz Records.

Nearly three decades on, ‘Dance, Dance, Dance’ still grooves as hard as ever — now revitalized for the next generation of house lovers.

Rich musical history of Yugoslavia reveals a long-lasting love for the music of Latin America.
Entwined in Afro-Cuban rhythms, ballrooms were shakin', swayin' and swingin', gathering musicians who were heavily into jazz bands and orchestras, most notably in Ljubljana, Zagreb, and Belgrade. Jazz could be heard on the streets of Split way back in 1919 when dancing became a symbol of freedom. Radio was the most loved household item, newest sheet music was in demand and collecting records was hip like today. In the aftermath of Second World War, jazz went underground but little by little, things changed and Ella, Satchmo, Dizzy and Miles came to visit, among others. Music festivals shaped the music for entertainment and variety of popular styles showed influences from all over the world. In the early sixties, one particular rhythm crashed on the coast of the Adriatic Sea: the rhythm of bossa nova!

In the whirlwind of various musical styles, Latin American music still played important part of the scene in the early sixties Yugoslavia. Beguine, tango, rhumba, samba, calypso, mambo and cha-cha-cha all found their place on the festivals inspired by famous Sanremo, festival of Italian popular song that largely shaped the musical taste of Europe. It was the era of instrumental rock, R & B and rock'n'roll - sounds of "imperialist America" now played freely on imported and hand-made electric guitars. While dancing halls had been turning into concert venues, bossa nova has come! Eydie Gorme with Blame It on the Bossa Nova and Paul Anka with Eso Besso (That Kiss!) tried to make us learn some new dance moves but it was Joao Gilberto's gentle singing and his new way of playing samba songs, along with Tom Jobim's modern dissonant harmonies and poetry of Vinicius de Moraes that created the magic. When American alto saxophonist and flautist Bud Shank visited Zagreb and Ljubljana in 1963 (with Boško Petrović in his quintet) "it was the first time we heard bossa nova!" remembers Stjepan Braco Fučkar. Jugoton, the biggest record company in Yugoslavia, released 4-track EP Bossa Nova by Bogdan Dimitrijević and his ensemble that same year! While not being fully accepted or understood completely, the archives of Jugoton reveal to us various interpretations of this new trend from their vast catalogue.

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.

They are sexy, powerful, and subversive! HUMAN TOYS is a raw punk rock duo fronted by fierce female vocals

Poupee Mecanik (vocals, theremin) thrives on playing with female archetypes, bringing a subversive edge to their music, all flavoured with a generous dose of irony.

The addition of guitarist Jon Von, formerly of RIP OFFS, since their previous hit record "Spin To Win" (Topsy- Turvy Records), has revitalised the band with an all- new punk rock sound that lands somewhere between THE RAMONES and THE AVENGERS.

Since their debut album "Excuse My French" (Records Ad Nauseam), HUMAN TOYS has evolved musically into a wild punk rock riot grrrl-style force. Anyone lucky enough to catch one of their electrifying live shows around the globe knows they deliver relentless energy, raw power, and a tough yet seductive attitude. That same fierce energy shines through in their new album "At The Poor Cow", named after a legendary underground punk rock bar in Tokyo. The album features fantastic covers of IGGY POP's "I'm Sick of You", THE NERVES' "When You Find Out", and BOB CENTER's "Lost In The Jungle", alongside addictive and wild HUMAN TOYS originals. This record is a true modern-day punkrock-classic!

Hercules & Love Affair music has always been about folding past, present and future together – and never more so than in the latest phase, encapsulated by the track that launches things, “Someone Else is Calling.”

If the song-first, ultra-gothic mind-movie of the last H&LA album In Amber was partly motivated by Andy Butler falling out of love with dance culture, this new body of work – an EP titled Someone Else Is Calling – is an unabashed resurgence of the love affair. A co-production with London underground veteran and inspiration to Butler, Quinn Whalley of Paranoid London and Decius, the lead single is a surging, tactile acid track woven around the vocal of Icelandic icon Hips & Lips aka Elín Ey – who hits that new wave disco sweet spot between Grace Jones and Yazoo era Alison Moyet.

Elín’s lyrics work perfectly with the bodily momentum of the sounds, circling around themes of self-possession and the urge to move on to the next experience, the next sensation: hunger for reality. And this taps into Andy’s feelings on escaping New York and moving to Belgium, discovering that dance culture was anything but the hollowed-out, identikit-festival-lineup conveyor belt he’d feared, and still had plenty of outposts where it was still – as he’d first experience it as a teen – about the hot, sweaty reality of diverse people seeking communion, communication and heightened ways of being in the here and now.

The video, filmed by Tatsumi Milori couldn’t be a better expression of exactly this. A love letter to the strange and glorious party scene of Mexico City, it captures people who are both tapping into the eternal verities of those magical dancefloor communions, and thrilling – against all the odds of oppressive forces – at the sense of possibility in the flow of gender and sexuality in the present moment. It’s powered by innocence and experience as intertwined forces, and it amplifies the heartbeat of the song a thousandfold. There will be more, much more, to follow from the partnership of Andy, Elín and Quinn. It digs deeper still into the decades of dance and other underground cultures that feed into this modern moment – but this shining beacon should give you a pretty good hint.

Someone Else Is Calling will arrive on one of Los Angeles’s most exciting new independent labels and creative hubs, StrataSonic, on December 14. The lead single of the same name, along with the music video directed by Tatsumi Milori, is out now. This marks the first collaboration between Hercules & Love Affair and Stratasonic.

The ever-prolific Mihai Popoviciu returns with a stunning three-tracker on Sublease Music, delivering another masterclass in groove-oriented deep house. Known for his unmistakable precision and subtle emotional touch, the Romanian producer continues to bridge the space between warm underground energy and refined studio craftsmanship.
Over the past two decades, Popoviciu has become one of Eastern Europe’s most respected exports in electronic music, releasing on labels such as Bondage, Poker Flat, and Hudd Traxx, and earning international acclaim for his deep yet functional approach to house. On Sublease, he strips things back to their essential form: hypnotic basslines, crisp percussion, and fluid arrangements that move the dance floor without ever shouting for attention.
Each track radiates Popoviciu’s signature flow, a careful balance between drive and depth, tension and release. Sublease Music, the sister label of Poker Flat, continues its mission to present pure, modern house music from some of the most consistent artists in the scene. This release fits perfectly into that lineage, deep, timeless, and irresistibly groovy. From intimate after-hours sessions to peak-time sets in discerning clubs, these cuts prove once again that Mihai Popoviciu doesn’t follow trends, he defines the standard.

The ever-prolific Mihai Popoviciu returns with a stunning three-tracker on Sublease Music, delivering another masterclass in groove-oriented deep house. Known for his unmistakable precision and subtle emotional touch, the Romanian producer continues to bridge the space between warm underground energy and refined studio craftsmanship.
Over the past two decades, Popoviciu has become one of Eastern Europe’s most respected exports in electronic music, releasing on labels such as Bondage, Poker Flat, and Hudd Traxx, and earning international acclaim for his deep yet functional approach to house. On Sublease, he strips things back to their essential form: hypnotic basslines, crisp percussion, and fluid arrangements that move the dance floor without ever shouting for attention.
Each track radiates Popoviciu’s signature flow, a careful balance between drive and depth, tension and release. Sublease Music, the sister label of Poker Flat, continues its mission to present pure, modern house music from some of the most consistent artists in the scene. This release fits perfectly into that lineage, deep, timeless, and irresistibly groovy. From intimate after-hours sessions to peak-time sets in discerning clubs, these cuts prove once again that Mihai Popoviciu doesn’t follow trends, he defines the standard.

Claude VonStroke makes long-awaited Crosstown Rebels debut with ‘Noche Clara’, featuring Honeycomb. A full-circle moment between two house music icons finally comes to fruition, with the two-tracker out on 5th December 2025.

Two decades after label founder Damian Lazarus first booked him to play in the UK, American electronic icon Claude VonStroke finally lands on Crosstown Rebels with ‘Noche Clara’ - a release that bridges friendship, history, and the enduring spirit of the global underground. Built around hazy tones, captivating synth melodies, and sweeping atmospherics, ‘Noche Clara’ captures the playful minimalism and late-night atmosphere that defi ned his early work. On the flip, ‘Bam Bam’ layers warped vocals over a trippy off kilter sonics and a tunnelling, hypnotic groove, providing a haunting and commanding deep dive into the late-night hours. A collaboration with beatboxer, producer, DJ, and instrumentalist Honeycomb, who recently toured with The Floozies and Dirtwire, the link-up came naturally following a joint appearance between the pair at California’s infamous Zenyara, plus multiple Dirtybird festival appearances and more.

A true maverick of modern dance music, Claude VonStroke has spent over two decades shaping the sound and culture of house. From founding the iconic Dirtybird label, home to artists like Fisher, Eats Everything, and Catz ‘n Dogz, to headlining the world’s most respected clubs and festivals, his legacy is built on connection, humour, and an unfiltered love of the dancefloor. Now exploring more underground and experimental sounds, VonStroke is entering a new creative chapter ahead of his forthcoming artist album in early 2026 - a shift perfectly exemplified by this impressive debut on Crosstown.