New releases this week: All genres

Notes: An exact replica of the legendary Pearl SY-1 Syncussion drum machine, featuring expanded I/O board. Classic analogue sound with individual trigger inputs, two voices and six different oscillator modes per voice.

Supplier's Notes:
The Michigan Synth Works SY-1 Drum synth is a full size, exact replica of the Pearl SY-1 Syncussion. Every detail has been replicated from the original board layouts to the mechanical construction. The assembled version has been modernized to use current manufacturing processes while still using the original board layouts and all parts have been carefully chosen to match the behaviour of the original. Case, boards, and I/O Boards are all interchangeable with the original Pearl device.

Assembled versions come with the METAL back standard, the wood case is available as a DIY kit separately.

The Syncussion:

The Syncussion is a 2 voice drum synthesizer with two oscillators per voice and six different modes. Five modes mix and modulate the oscillators plus a noise channel. Each voice has controls for TUNE, DECAY, SWEEP amount, SWEEP Speed, Sweep up/off/down, LFO amount, and LFO speed, LFO Shape (Tri or Square), and sample and hold.

OSC Modes:

A: One oscillator sound, at this position the regular drum synthesizer sweep can be effected.

B. Sound of one oscillator adjusting the other oscillator frequency; produces a metallic sound.

C. Sound of a mix of two oscillator outputs; sound is similar to that of a vibraphone.

D. Sound of mix of two oscillator outputs; produces a low to high sweep and is done by hitting pad softly or hard; there is no connection to SWEEP SPEED and SWEEP RANGE

E. Sound of one oscillator adjusting the other oscillator frequency with a mix of noise; produces a sound similar to hitting thin metal.

F. Sound of only noise

Triggering:

The SY-1 is designed to be triggered via drum triggers which output a very low pulse signal. Modern 5V trigger signals (v-trig) can be used, how it i recommended experimenting with simple audio samples or more dynamic triggers. One of the more interesting features of the Syncussion is the dynamic response to the drum triggers and just sending a straight pulse which maxes out the trigger inputs does not do the device justice.

Tuning:

The original SY-1 uses a tune pedal to adjust the pitch of both oscillators while playing. This functionality has been retained in the original configuration but is of limited use without the pedal. The expanded version DOES have per voice CV control (1v/Oct) as well as the MIDI.

The inputs and outputs use 1/4" Stereo to 1/4" (3 included) to greatly expand the capabilities of the device. The Mod input is prewired to VCF freq but can easily be switched to decay via jumper on the voice cards.

The SY-1 ships with a metal base panel but the DIY wood case can be used instead. It is provided UNFINISHED and sold separately.

Whats included:

SY-1 Synthesiser

Universal Power adapter (100-240V, 12V DC out, Tip Positive)

Expanded I/O: 3x 1.5m TRS 1/4" Phone to 2x TS 1/4" Phone

Notes: Excellent polyphonic hybrid synth module from Michigan Synth Works, based on the Mutable Instruments Ambika. Six digitally generated voices are processed through a Polivoks-derived low-pass filter. Also available with Roland-style Shruthi SMR4mkII filter.

Supplier's Notes:
Xena is a rework of the legendary Mutable Instruments Ambika DIY synthesiser. Now fully machine assembled with an updated layout and an improved modern power supply. Available with all original 3 voice cards and compatible with 3rd part operating systems as well as a new AS3109 (modern reissue of the original Roland filter chip) filter

Xena Features:

6 voices with individual outputs, one Mix output (Mono)
2 digital oscillators per voice, with 36 oscillator algorithms/wavetables.
1 sub-oscillator, also configurable as a transient generator.
Pre-filter overdrive and bit-crushing effect.
Analogue 4-pole filter (or 2-pole multimode filter depending on the type of voicecard used) and VCA.
3 ADSR envelopes, 3 patch-level LFOs, 1 voice-level LFO.
Modulation matrix with 14 slots and 4 modulation modifiers.
1 arpeggiator, 1 note sequencer and 2 step sequencers per part.
Flexible mapping of the 6 voices. A single patch with 6 voice-polyphony, 6 independent mono parts, 2 layered patches with 3-voices polyphony, a 3-voice unison bass line on the lower half of the keyboard with a 3-voice unison lead on the upper half... all are possible!
MicroSD storage allows the storing of a life-long of patches, programs and multis, along with the history of editing operations for undo/redo.
Easy to change voice cards
Case size: 10.5"x6.5"x1.75"

Filter Options:

The device is available with the original 3 Mutable voice cards (more will be added later one). Mixing voice cards is possible but not recommended.

SMR Filter: This filter uses the same topology as the Shruthi SMR4mkII. It is a low pass 4 pole OTA-C filter. Its is a smooth "Roland-ish" type filter.
4P Filter: This filter uses the same core as the Shruhti 4-Pole Mission but only offers the LP4 output. The 4P filter is perhaps a a bit fuzzier than the SMR type.
SVF Filter: This filter board features a 2-pole state variable filter with low-pass, band-pass and high-pass modes. It is half of the Shruthi SVF Filter.

Includes:

Xena Desktop Synth
12V DC universal (100-240V) Power Supply
Preformatted SD card

Notes: More than just master keyboards, the SL mk2 series is a new chapter in musical keyboard controllers. From the innovative UX Logic interface, seamless integration with the Numa Player, high-definition MIDI 2.0, to the immersive realism of our new keybeds, every detail is crafted to bring your music to life.

The SL gets smarter. With the revolutionary Studiologic UX Logic, first introduced with the Numa X Piano, the SL mk2 series redefines simplicity and elegance. A sleek, modern control panel empowers your creativity, making navigation intuitive and effortless. Create, explore, and control with unparalleled ease.

SL Link, Studiologic's groundbreaking protocol, bridges the gap between your gear and your imagination. With compliant external apps taking full control of the SL mk2, every nuance of your performance stays in perfect sync.

Seamlessly connect the SL mk2 with Numa Player 2, our cutting-edge music software is built now to complement the SL series perfectly.

Numa Player is cross-platform and designed for ultimate versatility, offering a rich selection of high-quality sound libraries. Best of all, these libraries are free for every SL user1, providing you with a full musical experience straight out of the box. Whether you're composing, performing, or exploring, SL Link and Numa Player ensure your creativity knows no bounds.

The SL mk2 takes a leap into the future with MIDI 2.0. Unlock the full potential of your music with greater resolution, richer dynamics, and unprecedented precision. It's not just MIDI; it's music at its most expressive.

Take charge of your studio with dedicated DAW transport controls. From playback to recording, essential features are just a touch away, so you stay immersed in the creative process without breaking stride.

The SL mk2 doesn't just control; it delivers. With dual audio outputs and a headphone jack, it functions as a professional-grade audio interface. Powered entirely by USB-C, it delivers pristine sound from computer or mobile device directly to your speaker system no extra hardware needed.

Featuring the TP/400 Wood, our finest keybed ever. Designed to deliver an unparalleled touch, it offers a playing experience remarkably close to that of an acoustic grand piano. From the precise hammer action to the timeless beauty of wooden keys, every detail is crafted to inspire and elevate your performance

Review: AgainstMe makes a powerful debut on 47 with four tracks of deep, spiralling techno rooted in Berlin's famous underground energy. The Greek producer showcases his signature multi-dimensional sound design well here as he fuses dynamic rhythms and immersive atmospheres with great precision. Each track builds on a foundation of undulating basslines and intricate textures, which takes you on a trip through shifting sonic terrain. From hypnotic momentum to cavernous depth, there is a balance between raw propulsion and detailed production that makes for a bold, immersive statement that positions AgainstMe as a key rising voice in forward-thinking techno.

Review: Amorphic and Tensal hook back in to the machine to dialyse their crafts once more, with 'Highland Frequencies' offering up four, machine-numbered atoning lambs to our mech overlords, following up the equally arrayed 'Distant Landscapes' EP (2024) on Blueprint. Now bringing their distinctive cataloguing system to the discographic vanitas Mord, four more 'AT' tracks make for an irresistibly well-layered, synthetically one-of-a-kind release. Only 'AT4' gets a subtitle, 'The Sleepwalker', where a sandman's slumbrous, lollygaggling beats somehow, at the same time, betray a subconscious, paradoxical restlessness.

Review: ANAZANAUT is a time-bending audio artefact stitched together from decades of disparate sonic moments. With recordings spanning from 1984 to 2024, the techno project feels like a cosmic scrapbook-fragmented memories reborn through meticulous remixing and remastering. From the icy atmospherics of 'Voice on the Air' to the vintage grit of 'Poacher Path (Extended Mix),' these tracks vibrate with echoes of past lives stitched together by a logic only time understands. ANAZANAUT doesn't follow a linear path; it loops, folds, and bends with compelling grooves and myriad occult sounds adding character and curiosity.

Review: The fledgling WEorUS label rolls out more stylish, minimal and tech here from a trio of artists. Andrade goes first with 'Kubernetes,' a driving minimal house cut packed with hefty groove. It is followed by 'Content Security Policy' which is a slick, rhythm-forward roller that locks you into its flow. Flip to side-B and get swept into Dragosh's 'One Way,' a deep, hypnotic workout that's all tension and release and rounding off the trip is Fabrizio Siano's 'Control Your Emotions,' a poignant, late-night burner that delivers introspection through rhythm.

Review: California-based, British drum & bass musician ASC returns with more homages to late 90s atmospheric drum & bass on his excellent sub-label Spatial. Anyone who has been following his work and the releases that he's put out on his Auxiliary label and sub labels in the past few years should know what to expect. Following on from last month's excellent full-length Next Time You Fall, 'Undercurrents' is four tracks of impeccably produced ambient jungle. The first cut, 'Ocean Breeze', has a simpler rhythm than you would expect from him, which could be a hint at a more liquid future direction. The next three cuts are classic ASC: cut-up, spaced-out breaks interspersed with dreamy vocals.

Review: Granada's Cosmic Tribe know the definition of "electro" in its broadest sense; their new Xtrictly Electro comp keeps the dystopian sound endemic to the genre's most present incarnation, but refuses to restrict itself to one tempo: the standard 130-ish that has sadly infected the otherwise genius genre as a necessity. An international splinter cell of spec-ops and mercenaries are recalled from retirement here, as we hear Calagad 13, Nachtwald, EC13 and many more mechanoid ilk lay down all manner of slick utilities, making up a morbid multi-tool. 5zyl brings further lasery Lithuanian steeze on 'Vilnius Bass', whilst Spectrums Data Forces betrays the existence of a sinister corporate entity, whose business model works towards the object of instilling 'Darkness In My Head' through giant, killer mozzy basses.

Review: Rico Casazza is Italian-born but currently based in Prague. Here he returns to the Moving Pictures label with another new electro and techno exploration full of his trademark sound designs and high-speed grooves. 'Climax' opens with deep, dobby drums and fizzing static that snakes around the mix while chords bring melancholy and 'Remind Me Pls' twitches with acid deftness and more optimistic chords. Moving Pictures founders Roman Rai and Taino step up with their own remixes. The former flips 'Climax' into deep space trip with lush layers of silky synths and emotive breakdown,s then Taino reconfigures it as a hot stepping house cut with choral vocal swirls and a rubbery bassline that brings the bounce.

Review: Matthieu Chedid and Seu Jorge's long-running collaboration reaches a new peak with this latest release. A-side, the track 'Parioca' brings together the duo's signature stylesiChedid's French flair and Jorge's Brazilian rhythms, resulting in a seamless fusion of groove and melody that invites listeners into a warm, joyful world where their distinct musical identities meet. The B-side's dub mix of 'Parioca' takes things in a deeper direction, layering hypnotic rhythms and atmospheric textures that open up the track, creating an expansive, dubby atmosphere. It's a perfect companion to the original, showing the depth and versatility of their musical partnership, which continues to evolve after more than a decade of collaboration.

Review: A double dose of dancefloor bliss is administered (subversively without doctor's orders) by Kent Soul. These two numbers have been faved by fans from several scenes and the world over: first, there's The Cheques' 'In The Groove', a longingly upbeat homage to a groovin' place by the obscure Louisianan organists. Lead organist Tony Nardi, would later go on to form the Thai funk group Salt & Pepper, famously recording 'Man Of My Word', but for then and now, this 60s manoeuvre would serve to transcend its mod origins, attracting the Northern soul crowd in the years to come. After, 'Arabian Jerk' by The Merits rehears a Goldwax production out of Memphis: mod and exotica collide in a steaming instrumental excitation of backbeat accents and parping 2-4 guitars, making a mod belly dancer's anthem.

Review: The Manchester producer, already known for his work with Hot Creations and Cuttin' Headz, channels a refined, magnetic energy here that solidifies his rising-star status. Back for his eighth EP since breaking on to the scene, AJ Christou makes a triumphant full EP debut on Crosstown Rebels with Desire, a sleek two-tracker that feels both sharply contemporary and deeply rooted in classic house vibes. The title track is a smouldering cut built around a throbbing bassline, crisp, polished percussion and a teasing, seductive vocal that coils through the mix. It's a slow, deliberate burn that feels primed for those moments deep into a set when the dancefloor is locked in and the lights are low. Flipping over to 'Patience', Christou leans into a more textured, intricate sound. The drums are playful yet tight, driving a track that's equally effective but more subtle in its progression, with layered synths and understated melodies gliding beneath. Both tracks show Christou's talent for crafting grooves that are as detailed as they are danceable.

Review: CRYME launches his new label SEVEN with a head-turning and ear-pleasing debut single 'Hold On', accompanied by four standout remixes. SEVEN is a queer and FLINTA*-leaning imprint dedicated to uplifting, genre-blending house and techno and it kicks off with CRYME's hypnotic original which is driven by pulsing bass and echoing vocals. Berlin house Queen Cinthie brings a soulful house spin with airy strings and bouncy grooves, while Obscure Shape delivers a darker, techno-driven rework. Lydia Eisenblatter adds a rave-tinged breakbeat flair, and VOLPE closes with a dreamy dub-techno version. 'Hold On' perfectly embodies SEVEN's mission to showcase unexpected sounds, fierce energy and dancefloor joy.

Review: Spanish label NeighbourSoul bring a heraldic design sensibility to wildout disco edits on 12", with this latest record taking on a leonine art direction on the inner label and sleeve. A top-up to their enduring vinyl-only series, this one hears a resident editor arride four more most-pleasing disco loops, believably emulating a bygone time in which DJs would sticker and knife their records to create workable tools, in the absence of software.

Review: Ron Hardy's legacy lives on though stories of his legendary DJ sets but also his seemingly endless catalogue of edits and reworks of the tunes he played in his heyday. Here we have another such exhibit in which he flips some classic disco. The original version of 'No Way Back' is riddled with picked guitar licks and dreamy keys while a funky low end moves on this disco-rock gem as brass bursts out for added oomph. Hardy ups the pace, twists it beyond this realm and adds big drum breaks that are Prue bit for dancers. It's a classic in its own right that gets regular plays by more bold and eclectic DJs.

Review: Japanese talent DJ Koco aka Shimokita is a hardcore 45rpm devotee. They are his chosen tools as a beat-juggling DJ who can do logic-defying things with his grooves. He is a regal on Bloom and already dropped serious heat in January with 'World Famous'. This time he is back with a fresh take on 'Made In New York' which is a 1985 classic by renowned Brazilian funk and jazz pianist Tania Maria. He brings his signature hip-hop flair and creativity with his trusted crew, 45trio, and enlists the dynamic saxophonist King TJ (DA-Dee-MiX) to elevate things further.

Review: A record that crafts a smooth, jazz-infused deep house journey, blending classic influences with a refined musical touch. Side-1 opens with 'Waves', where warm piano chords and a laid-back groove create an effortlessly rich atmosphere. 'Let's Love' brings in house legend Robert Owens, elevating the track with soulful vocals, shimmering keys and uplifting energyiclassic house music with a deep jazz undercurrent. On the flip, 'Move Me' delivers a dynamic blend of funky basslines, crisp percussion and spacious keyboards, keeping the groove fluid and expressive. 'Wistful Melody' rounds out the EP with a driving four-on-the-floor rhythm, yet retains a melodic softness, balancing energy with deep, emotive textures. A beautifully crafted collection that pays homage to house music's roots while pushing toward a more intricate, jazz-leaning sound.

Review: Formerly known as AI Robot, Calin Dumitrescu refound his human side under his own surname as alias, having found residence in local labels Atipic, Particular and Unutrei since 2020. His debut for Myriad Records finds the third EP in the UK label's catalogue, with the headshaking chords and feverish acids of 'Acid E' helping synthesise a pharmaceutical drug we didn't know could or should exist, while 'Lucid Dream Gone Fucked Up' implies the necessary disturbance of a dream we'd never want to wake up from, by the intrusion of mechanic breaks, spy-vs-spy basses and creepazoid pads. The final two, ending on the perc-heavy 'Play Pause', contrast the A with a celebratory mood.

Review: Joe Claussell is a proper legend of the scene and New York powerhouse who has a sound so emotionally intense it brings people to tears. Here, he breathes new life into the Far Out Monster Disco Orchestra with a powerful remix of 'Black Sun' that arrives exclusively for Record Store Day 2025. Since debuting in 2014, the Orchestra, which features Azymuth's Jose Roberto Bertrami and Alex Malheiros, has attracted top remixers like Theo Parrish and DJ Spinna, and Claussell now joins that esteemed list by infusing the original with his signature spiritual energy and rawness. The result is a euphoric journey towards pure ecstasy driven by Heidi Vogel's soaring vocals as classic disco and grooves collide in pure magic.

Review: Originally released in 1979, this is a highly sought-after gem due a reissue to bring its soulful, classic charms back into the spotlight, complete with the original B-side. The opening track, 'Hollywood Dreaming', is a smooth, catchy piece that expertly blends a funky rhythm with a rich horn section and excellent vocals. The infectious melody and creative arrangement make it a standout in the band's catalog. It's a track that embodies the essence of late '70s soul and funk while still feeling fresh and timeless. 'Shine On' delivers a late-night disco groove, heavily influenced by the genre's rise during the era. Its funky bassline and smooth rhythm provide a perfect soundtrack for dancefloors and intimate settings alike. The track oozes with soulful energy, showcasing the band's ability to seamlessly merge funk and disco influences into a cohesive sound. Father's Children, formed in Washington, D.C., originally as a doo-wop group, evolved into a funk and soul powerhouse by the late 70s. It is certainly bittersweet to hold this piece of music in your hand - and especially without having to take out a second mortgage.

Review: Dookuzot is the entrancing debut from Floid & W92 aka Woody92, and it's released on their own Omen Wapta imprint. Across eight tracks, they craft a labyrinthine soundscape full of shadowy textures, tribal rhythms and eerie, dissonant tones that feels both ancient and futuristic-an ambient-techno blend that channels family history into sonic myth-making. Standout 'Maushe' hints at dancefloor tension, while 'Veriyou' is seriously deep and heady as part of what is a haunting, high-definition journey through imagined realms and moody post-human worlds.

Review: A true Chicago veteran with over 100+ releases to his name(s) steps into a fresh chapter with this first EP on a new label, delivering four cuts that reaffirm his mastery of deep house expression. 'Lush' opens with silky, melodic textures, driven by emotive keys and a warm, jazzy touchipure late-night soul. 'Magic (Gherkin Syndrome Mix)' ups the energy, blending jackin' rhythms, funky basslines and a misty atmosphere, while still rooted in deep house sensibility. Flipping to Side-B, 'Showing Off' cools things down with a laid-back piece that is a worth alternate to all the heat elsewhere on this disc. Closing track 'U Don't Own Me (Destructive Beauty Inst)' dives deeper still, a spacious, textured instrumental that has a timeless, defiant spirit. Every track feels like a personal statement from an artist still pushing forward, rooted in tradition but reaching more great emotional heights.

Review: If we had a pound for every hush-hush Sade remix or re-edit we'd heard over the years, we'd likely have enough to fund a night out - or at least a light lunch at an overpriced London restaurant. This one comes from - surprise, surprise - a mystery artist, on the freshly minted Illegal Paris rework imprint. It sees our shadowy hero give his, her or their take on 1984's 'Hang On To Your Love', re-framing the classic cut as a smooth, subtly nu-disco tinged slab of warming deep house excellence built around a rising and falling bassline, crunchy drums and tech-house tinged electronic flourishes. The superb full vocal A-side version comes accompanied by a dancefloor dub style 'instrumental'. This features occasional vocal snippets and loads more spacey synth sounds.

Review: Brighton-based producer Pierson brings a refreshing diversity to his deep house and disco house offerings, blending multiple influences with an ease that keeps his tracks exciting and unpredictable. 'Forget It Mate' starts off with a slow groove that feels like a nostalgic nod to vintage deep house, but it's much moreithis track is a skillful blend of old-school vibes and modern energy. It seamlessly moves between different styles, creating a dynamic and infectious vibe. 'Mr Miami' follows with a lively piano-driven melody, uplifting the listener with its ambient house feel, where lush chords and smooth transitions create a feel-good atmosphere. On Side-2, 'Spank Dat' is a funky standout. With its rich groove and rare disco aura, it's a killer track for any dancefloor, offering a unique fusion of genres. Finally, 'Just No!' dives into a tribal, electro-driven territory. Its organic yet robotic funk takes on an 80s electro feel, offering a quirky, dynamic sound that pushes boundaries. This EP delivers something for everyone, effortlessly blending styles while staying rooted in deep, groove-driven house. A true example of the producer's range and creativity.

Review: Eddie Parker offers a compelling slice of Detroit soul for northern soul enthusiasts, repurposing the unmistakable Pied Piper backing track from the Hesitations' rare 'That's What Love Is'. Revered within the scene, both versions of this stomper are beloved for their punchy, soul-filled power. With this 45 release, the track finds its rightful place in the hands of collectors and dancers, bringing the unmistakable Pied Piper sound back to life in a more accessible form, ready to ignite the dancefloor once again. On the flip, 'Soul Superman #2' makes its debut on 45, expanding the Pied Piper legacy with a previously unreleased track that shares the same bold, masculine energy as its more famous sibling, 'Soul Superman'. While '#2' might not have the chart success of its predecessor, it holds its own with a driving rhythm and recognisable hooks that will easily appeal to fans of the original. This release proves once again the timeless quality of the Pied Piper sound, replete with its rich, groove-laden atmosphere

Review: After a top first appearance in the series, Dutchman Tammo Hesselink returns to the Mantis project with another deep, immersive release full of his signature hi-fidelity sound design and meticulous drum patterns. Blending dub's echo-laden atmospheres with industrial percussion and the sparse textures of minimalism, his sound design is as distinctive as ever as once again, rather than relying on melody, he sculpts emotion and intensity through texture, space and rhythm. Metallic hits and reverberant effects create a physical, tactile experience that is both abstract and structured, designed for powerful sound system delivery while rewarding close listening. Hesselink offers a cerebral yet visceral trip here.