Abstract Drums & Optimystic - "Energy To The Universe" (6:33)
Justice & Metro - "Shadowkid" (5:40)
Pixl & Peeb - "Koi Fable" (5:49)
Sicknote & Escher - "Trouble Part 2" (5:48)
Review: Proper pristine, technical drum & bass here from the Transmute crew, expending far more effort than most junglists in fleshing out the body, weight and polish of each constituent sound. Mostly forgoing sampled breakbeats, the 'DUOS' EP hears refreshingly unusual sound design choices dance over a more straight-up rollage in the rhythm section(s). From the opening washer pads of Abstract Drumz & Optimystic's 'Energy To The Universe', to the closing techstep clanks of Sicknote & Escher's 'Trouble Part 2', this EP brings a variety of emotions to a gestalt whole, unified by its consistently clean production.
Andy M & Dream Frequency - "I Want Your Love" (6:07)
A Plus - "Just High" (re-edit) (4:52)
Review: Back in 2020, Mike Stewart decided to reactivate his B.I.T Productions label - an imprint that originally delivered a string of forthright house and trance EPs in the late 1990s. This multi-artist four-tracker is decidedly retro-futurist in tone, mixing sounds reminiscent of the label's late 90s output with nostalgic nods towards earlier rave sounds. Stewart kicks things off by re-editing and extending Awesome3 & Ondamike's 2021 breaks/electro/rave mash-up 'Ready For This', before "dirty bass" loving rave revivalist Retropolis peppers a sweat-soaked breakbeat with massive piano stabs on '5AM'. Andy M joins forces with original Mancunian rave crew Dream Frequency on the 1992 breakbeat hardcore style rush of 'I Want Your Love', while Stewart picks up his scalpel for a second time to rework the full-throttle rave madness of 'Just High' by A.Plus.
Review: The Discontinuous Various I release from Discontinuous Germany brings together a diverse selection of artists, including Bakked, Alessio Barletta, Omar Akhrif and Ildec. Longtime collaborators and new talents combine their unique styles, showcasing the deep bonds formed through shared musical journeys. With Barletta as a core contributor, this compilation pushes the boundaries, blending fresh ideas with the label's signature sound. A testament to creative synergy, the release highlights the connection between these artists and the growing influence of Discontinuous on the electronic music scene.
Blinkduus Dischetto - "Sein Cirque Les Poppies" (4:45)
Monica Venturella - "Page Not Found" (4:52)
Orso - "Bastardo" (6:00)
Review: Proper euphoric tune-tutelage from the Ajaccio label Digital Finesse, a good name for the label for sure. Run by Jimmy Batt, Digital Finesse's M.O. encompasses curt EPs as well as multitrack V/As, polished and readied for maximum credo. 'I Bastardi Aiaccini' is one of the latter, a six-track compendium fleshing the best one-offs from their personal roster, all while accelerating and hyper-modernising the classic electro and Italo sounds native to the Mediterranean. Beginning with the crisp, hyperactive, arpeggio-heavy metrosexual fascinator 'Electromotion', we then move into the comparatively gradated boxer 'Concorde' by Human Aventura, before rounding off the A on a note of bursting acid innovation, the instrumental version of Pasqua Pancrazi's 'Danesi'. The B opens on a note of sleaze-funk with the speedy 'Sein Cirque Les Poppies' from Blinkduus Dischetto, before going full-throttle dystopi-speed by way of a minimal but no less driven flat-beat cutup from Monica Venturella, 'Page Not Found'. Orso's 'Bastardo' flaunts the more experimental ends of the label's capacity, with 'Bastardo' hearing motifs of IT-hardcore get plunged into more-than-smokey scourings of Reese and sizzle.
Review: Anita Ward's 'Ring My Bell' was itself a restir of an intended teenybopper hit. However, it found much better palatability as a disco number, saved for later and unveiled at the right time. Now, again, the original Frederick Knight penning hears an instrumental vivifying, but this time it assumes reissued dub reggae form under the 2002 aegis of the Blood Sisters, the three of whom duly vampirise the song, resurrecting it in a compellingly plodding take. Very little about The Blood Sisters is known; and this shapeshifting mystique is only compounded by the fact that this record and its dub version were produced by the much more prominent band One Blood, suggesting an offshoot project of a mystical nature. The track was also included in the game GTA: San Andreas; probably a keystone moment in its proliferation as a well-known and popular rendition.
Review: Phosphor continues its vinyl-only series with a vibrant tribute to the golden age of 2000s electro. This four-track release traverses the spectrum of the genre, from sun-soaked melodies to dark, club-ready cuts. Blue Vision, the duo behind the label, sets the stage with 'Making Up My Mind', a quintessential electro track brimming with groovy basslines, soaring melodies, and relentless drums. Parisian talent Occibel delivers another dancefloor gem with 'Shake The Future', a vibrant banger fueled by catchy melodies and infectious percussion. Kolter takes the helm on the B-side, venturing into darker territory with 'Electronic Mind', a haunting and evocative track driven by powerful vocals and mesmerizing melodies. Eric OS closes the release with 'Navigator', a journey through diverse influences, blending hard-hitting rhythms with moments of introspection and hope. 'Exploration Begins' is a testament to the enduring appeal of electro, showcasing both its timeless qualities and its potential for future evolution.
Review: This is a four-track sampler taken from parts one and two of the One Hundred and Fifty Steps VEP series which is all about exploring the rise of 150 bpm dubstep, a sound that characterised by fast basslines, broken rhythms and heavy halftime pulses. From VEP pt. 1, L.A.'s Carre delivers pacey wobblers and then Berlin's Formella debuts with playful breaks and more wobbly bass on 'Dripstep'. VEP pt. 2 features Leipzig's Old Man Crane with their intricate, syncopated style shinning through on 'Grey' and Valencia's Andrae Durden then shows class with a Kryptic Minds-inspired low-end powerhouse.
Review: This new collection offers up a quartet of tracks that are all tailored for slightly different moments on the dance floor. On side A, Dani Casarano kicks off with deep, hypnotic grooves that make for an immersive atmosphere before transitioning to punchy, bass-driven energy with other cuts. Side B introduces a new alter ego from Felian and Bruno Schmidt and the pair explore a robotic, looping groove with incidental breaks and nostalgic synths in the euphoric third track. Closing the release in style, Omar Akrhif & Lucretio present a minimalist masterpiece that is aimed at heady after-hours sessions.
Review: The Distorsion camp offers up its first sampler as a way of teasing you with the sort of quality sounds and artists it has on its roster. First up is a three-way collab between Citybox, Hankook & Orebeat whose 'Dangerous Changes' is an intense breakbeat workout for the peak time. Orebeat & Alex Clubbers keep the energy levels high and inject early 00s video-game style synths, Orebeat & Citybox keep it dark and raw with 'Gangsta' and Orebeat & JottaFrank laced up their thrilling breaks with acid lines and sleazy vocals on "Noche De Paris.' This is potent stuff for strobe-lit floors.
Review: After years spent serving up tasty, digital-only singles, Polish imprint That's Right Dawg Music finally makes its vinyl bow via a six-track mini-album featuring some of their most-checked catalogue cuts. Demarkus Lewis kicks things off via the carefully crafted disco-house release of 'TGIF', before Federfunk slams down the jazz-sampling peak-time punchiness of 'We Keep It Groovin' and Jazzmik offers up the funky deep house bounce of 'Get Him Outta Here'. Over on the reverse, Oggie B cannily combines mind-mangling electronic stabs, pumping beats and orgasmic vocal samples ('Steady Old Foot'), Makson makes great use of vintage rap and disco guitar samples on the energy-packed house thump of 'Last Man Standing', and Casserta and Jonny C join forces on the bass-heavy garage-house bump of 'Party #1'.
Review: The small but already well formed Lets Discult label is back with its third out and again has us hooked. It is a various artist affair that opens with the label's own in house Discult Soundsystem and their rugged and bass driven tech house cut 'Teknoid.' Bartaub's 'Thanks In Advance' then brings a zoned out and celestial feel with the swirling and heavenly pads and loopy drums that suspend you just above the dancefloor. Edine's 'Back To School' is a more busy and kinetic cut pampered with toms and run through with freaky vocals and Ollie Drummond's 'Cyberdawg 23' closes out with direct, heads down minimal excellence.
Review: The undeniably wonderfully named Chippy Chasers label return with a neat selection of four very playable, friendly-on-the-ear cuts from four undeniably wonderful artists. Fedo's 'Tunisian Rex' leads the chage, with a solid house shuffle liberally peppered with nicely trippy effects and bonkers vocal snippets that give it heaps of personality. Andrey Djackonda & Ovil's 'Lui Lui' is a little more stripped down and a little more soulful, with an old jazz hand muttering atmosphercially on top. Legit Trip's 'Skripi Daddy' is the most loop-laden of the quartet, but its ebbing and flowing brass samples and high frequency tweaks keep it interesting, before Firesc's 'Left Or Right' closes things down with the kind of polyrhythmic funkiness and space jazz trimmings that made Cheap Records so essential back in the day. Well worth Chasing down.
Review: Orlando Voorn and Blake Baxter deliver a powerhouse collaboration that channels the raw vitality of house music's formative years. Driven by a relentless bassline and crisp, propulsive rhythms, the production is both punchy and atmospheric, striking a balance between grit and groove. Baxter's unmistakable vocal style adds depth and urgency, weaving seamlessly into Voorn's dynamic arrangement. There's an immediacy to the track that feels alive, capturing the spirit of dancefloor culture while paying homage to the genre's roots. This is a meeting of two titans, where history and innovation collide with thrilling results.
Groove Armada - "Get Down" (feat Stush & Red Rat - Mark Knight extended mix) (6:15)
Illyus & Barrientos - "When You Gonna" (extended mix) (5:41)
David Penn & Offiah - "Satisfied" (5:18)
Ben Remember - "Waiting 4 You" (extended mix) (5:16)
Review: Mark Knight's epic Toolroom label returns with a four-track sampler featuring plenty more big-room house excursions. First up, the boss himself offers up an extended mix of Groove Armada's legendary 'Get Down' which is full of rave stabs and big vocals. Illyus & Barrientos offer the synth laced and peak time sounds of 'When You Gonna' and David Penn & Offiah combine for the supersized piano house rollercoaster that is 'Satisfied' complete with big hooky vocals. Last of all comes Ben Remember's 'Waiting 4 You' (extended mix) which ducks and dices with some smart filters, chopped-up vocal stabs and raw percussive house energy.
Review: Jooice, yet another sublabel of London-based proggy dance and electro label Lirica Archives, drop a swell new dark acid trance release collectively smithed by five sound-stokers: J6, Christian Sarde, Aline Umber, Krol and Otis. Each titans in their respective scenes (between which there is much crossover on this release), the overarching mood is one of renegade sci-fi escapism and revolution, with glitching, quivering robo-vocals and technic, sciencey sound-tunnellings aplenty.
Review: Four new prangers from France's BOOOoo! crew, startling our ears with audio-apparitions by ghosts of the resident French sceno-system: Jamahr, Mooglee, Jucid and Odeon. 'Black Loops' and 'Flex (Booty Mix)' invade elastic terrains of bass and flicky synth, churn them back through meshes of gradated beats and rond-squelching stab notes. 'The Question Is' eliminates much of the A-side's establishing layers and overdubs, harking rubbery and slip-tastic FX design, countered by the equally sticky 'Jimbeldance'.
Review: Speciale 02 on Orion Italy is a collaboration between Ben Kaczor and Orion that brings together a remarkable mix of spacey, otherworldly techno sounds. Side-1 opens with Ben Kaczor's 'Gambler,' a lower BPM track that offers a refreshing change of pace for techno enthusiasts. The chill sounds and beautiful melodies woven into the composition create a soothing yet engaging atmosphere, making it a standout for those who appreciate a more relaxed vibe within the genre. Orion's 'Technocut009' follows, merging melodic techno with elements of IDM and a house-inspired bassline. This unique combination results in a track that feels both experimental and accessible, pushing the boundaries of traditional techno while maintaining a good groove. Flipping to Side-2, Orion continues to impress with 'NR2X,' an uptempo track that blends an analog groove with moody, trance-like elements. Its driving rhythm and atmospheric layers are great for deeper listening. Ben Kaczor closes the EP with 'Murano,' a track that leans into the more classic techno sound while still offering his signature touch. Overall, Speciale 02 delivers a diverse and intriguing journey through modern techno.
Kwengface vs Joy Orbison vs Overmono - "Freedom 2" (3:30)
Kwengface - "Freedom" (3:19)
Review: These tracks have received some huge hype just from the plays they have been getting from DJs luckily enough to have them. Now they finally get a vinyl pressing so the rest of us can join in the fun. First up is a three way collab between a trio of well-regarded artists in the UK drill rapper Kwengface, master bass producer Joy O and techno's Overmono. 'Freedom 2' has cut-throat rhymes and two-step garage influences with low-end subs which will destroy the club. The original version features on the flip with a less club-ready and more drill-centric sound.
Review: LVCA and Otis channel the sounds of their homeland into a brooding mix of addictive lines and vocoder fire in 'Ritmo Electronico'. The track opens with a steel-edged snare driving smeared synths through a neon-stained cityscape, with robotic lyrics adding menace to the scene. 'Tanzen' pulls listeners deeper into A Promise In The Cold Night, featuring Alex Vincent's glitchy words, bright burbling bars, and a clean clap that light the way. The album's true coldness emerges with 'Synthesised Emotion,' where stabbing keys and a haze of hi-hats create a smoky, electrical atmosphere. This haze thickens in 'Sphere Of Light,' as aquatic tones and static distortion blend with ghostly vocals, encapsulating listeners in a fog of bending bodies and forms. LVCA and Otis have crafted an album that is perfect for those seeking a dark, electronic escape.
Review: Future Tones hear producers Luis Malon and Omar drop two utter floor-heaters respectively, not holding back for a second in their admission that these are 'Tracks From The Future'. Malon's 'Freeze' and 'Flesh Is Stronger' are surprisingly (at least for a pair of time-travelling tracks) humanistic statements, bringing belligerent bangout beats, rapturously Reesing rhapsodies and even G-funk whistles to a driving pair. Omar's flips are much more vintage, moving seemingly laterally in dimension rather than linearly in time, and finding solace in a more neo-retro-modern vision of the future; 'Niusing' especially entices with its cascader twinkles and sawwing bursts.
Review: Ohm Series #10 continues to be a shining example of the remarkable work being done in the dub techno genre, consistently featuring top-tier producers who excel in their craft. On Side-1, Monomood kicks things off with 'Spring In Space,' a track that boasts deep sub-bass hits and long, blending chords. Its strong kick and clean production make it a powerful example of dub techno at its finest. Following this, Octal Industries delivers 'Rewind Repeat,' a piece that layers epic strings and a soaring melody over an abstract broken beat. Powerful and evocative! Side-2 opens with G-Prod and Taho's'"Light Forest,' an uptempo dub techno track with a techy edge. Its smooth production and dancefloor-ready vibe make it a seamless fusion of technical prowess and groove. Closing out the release is Gradient's 'Track 4,' which offers classic dub techno sounds. Gradient's exceptional craftsmanship is evident in this track, which epitomizes the lush textures and hypnotic rhythms that define the genre. Overall, Ohm Series #10 upholds its reputation by delivering high-quality dub techno that resonates with both purists and new listeners alike. This release is an ideal example to the innovative spirit of the genre.
Review: Thompson Sound and Dubquake Records collaborate here to present O.B.F-style renditions of classic roots and rub-a-dub tracks from Linval Thompson's esteemed label. Rico O.B.F revitalises gems from the '70s and '80s using original recordings with each release featuring reinterpretations of the vocals, dubs, and mixes that include the beloved Nazamba. Following 'Curfew' and 'Sweet Sensimilia', the latest offering is 'Evening Love', a fresh take on Sammy Dread's emotive 'Morning Love' from the iconic dub album Scientist Meets The Space Invaders. Nazamba shines on 'She Nah Lie', delivering poetry steeped in warmth and romance, enhanced by the finesse of the Roots Radics.
Review: Peggy O'Keefe's 1966 recording, made during her six-year residency at Glasgow's Chevalier Casino, captures the Australian-born pianist's true musical talent. Her rendition of 'Cubano Chant'ioriginally popularised by Art Blakeyiremains a stand-out, a highlight in jazz dance circles ever since. Praised by jazz legends such as Cleo Laine and Oscar Peterson, O'Keefe's piano playing is rich with skill and passion, demonstrated to full effect in these two tracks. Now rediscovered and presented on 7", this gem has been hidden away for nearly six decades but is now ready for a new audience.
Review: O'FortyFour - Interjections EP marks a powerful return for Twig, featuring four dark and compelling club tracks by Ukrainian producer O'FortyFour. The EP opens with After Hours Messiah,' a mid-tempo techno track that flirts with progressive house and goa influences, setting a deep, hypnotic tone. 'Cold As Funk' continues the dark ambiance, offering gritty, pulsating beats perfect for late-night dancefloors. On Side-2, 'Texcotzingo' seamlessly blends psy trance elements with a techno foundation, creating a unique and energizing club-ready sound. The EP concludes with 'Hoodlum On Acid,' a nod to classic West Coast acid breaks, delivering a nostalgic yet fresh vibe. This is a very vibrant record that will do damage on the floor.
Review: Steve O'Sullivan returns to Phonogramme Records with his latest EP, Tribal Dubs, a strong three-track offering that exemplifies his mastery of deep grooves and atmospheric textures. Building on the success of his debut on the label, O'Sullivan reaffirms his position as a leading figure in the techno scene with this mesmerising release. The EP's title track, 'No Aura,' sets the tone with its hypnotic rhythms and immersive soundscapes, while 'We Got Dis' on Side 2 delivers a deep, looped tech-house burner that is both hypnotic and irresistibly funky. Closing the EP is 'Tribal Dub,' a sultry and deep exploration of dub-infused house music that further showcases O'Sullivan's talent for pushing boundaries while maintaining his signature style.With Tribal Dubs, Steve O'Sullivan demonstrates once again why he is regarded as one of techno's most respected artists, delivering an exceptional release.
Review: Arjuna Oakes' Abbreviations on 7" vinyl is a delightful journey through jazz and soul. Side-1 features 'The Love That I Feel,' a soulful track brimming with emotional depth and vibrant energy. Oakes' expressive vocals and the band's tight performance, especially with the legendary Nathan Haines, create an uplifting and captivating experience. On Side-2, 'Mallet Groove' offers a contrasting, yet equally engaging, experience. This downtempo track is soothing and gentle, with beautifully played keys that set a relaxing mood. The groove is soft and inviting, drawing listeners into its calming embrace. The emotional drive within the music is palpable, making it a deeply compelling piece that encourages introspection. Overall, Abbreviations shows Arjuna Oakes' ability to blend soulful performances with smooth, relaxing grooves, making it a standout release in contemporary jazz and soul.
Obatala Sango Ochun - "The Beginning" (Afrikan Latino mix) (6:24)
House II House - "Into The Night" (5:25)
Bizzy B - "Summer House" (3:20)
Rohan Delano - "Inflight" (5:17)
Montana Orchestra - "Esto Parese Amor" (Tribal Love beats) (5:11)
Uncle 22 - "The Man From" (6:22)
Review: Hotmix deliver another two-track slaying from an aliased ambassador of the label itself, this time the first edition in the new 'Obscure Bad Dreams' series. An homage to Sauro Cosimetti (the Italian house and techno mastermind whose credits include releases on Frequenza, Natura Viva and Beatfreak), six acolytes of the artist bring six, discoic house hosing-downs to the table. Most exciting among the selections are the lively African trad chanter 'The Beginning', the dreamy soulful house 'Inflight' by Rohan Delano, and Montano Orchestra's freestyle-inspired dub-electro-disco 'Tribal Love Beats' version of their own 'Esto Parese Amor'.
Review: Craigie Knowes has solidified its standing as a label synonymous with quality electro and techno releases. Known for its consistent ability to unearth and champion fresh talent, the label's latest addition, Obergman's Pentaquark EP, continues this tradition with commendable flair. This new offering, marked by its distinctive blend of classic electro and modern dance floor sensibilities, is a testament to Craigie Knowes' keen ear for cutting-edge sounds. The EP opens with "Quasiparticle," where a melodic hook resonates with echoes of "Blue Monday." Its crisp, metallic quality and syncopated rhythm create a hypnotic effect that is both captivating and rhythmically engaging. Following this, "Omega Centuri" delivers a satisfying dose of acid-infused, chugging beats that cater to the needs of any club environment. On Side B, the title track "Pentaquark" presents a dark, spooky acid bassline, showcasing Obergman's skill in blending eerie atmospheres with classic acid sounds. Finally, "Cuspy Halo Problem" rounds off the EP with its crunchy drums and a similarly dark, acid-tinged vibe. The Pentaquark EP is a fine addition to Craigie Knowes' roster, reinforcing the label's reputation for releasing high-quality, innovative electronic music. Obergman's latest work is a prime example of the label's commitment to pushing the boundaries of the genre while maintaining a solid connection to its roots.
Review: Objekt's 'Chicken Garaage' serves up two tracks that redefine breakbeat with a fresh, inventive spin. Side-1's 'Chicken Garaage' unfolds with creative energy, weaving acid-tinged beats and a tribal rhythm that feels both raw and sophisticated. The track's melody is subtle but perfectly placed, enhancing the track's intensity without overpowering its intricate layers. On Side-2, 'Worm Dance' dives even deeper with crushing beats and a hypnotic progression that makes for an unforgettable listening journey. Equally intense and rhythmically compelling, it's a track that feels like a full-on "trip".. Both tracks combine to create a distinctive, edgy release that brings a unique sound to the breakbeat scene. Killer stuff!
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