Review: Last year Woody McBride's Minnesota label Sounds. reissued the Lovers EP, a 12" he originally released back in 1996 under his Modal alias. Now the remixes gets reissued to follow up, leading in with some Mariana trench depth charge gear from Roy Davis and DJ Skull. The Terry Mullan mix is a springy, 909 techno workout, while the Boom Box mix takes a lighter, drum machine jazz approach. There are so many old-school heroes involved here - Hyperactive, DJ Slip, Mystic Bill - but then what else would you expect from someone as invested in the scene and community as Woody McBride?
Review: Hard to believe this package, recorded in Berlin by techno originator Juan Atkins, is 30 years old - it still sounds like it's from 300 years in the future. Remastered here for a reissue on Atkins' own Metroplex label, it offers up three versions of the title track that vary from from luxuriously lively space jazz to speedy but elegant techno and shimmering, phasing, metallic percussion. Two more originals, 'Neptune' and 'I Wanna Be There', complete the set, and pressed across two slices of vinyl, this is prime fare for anyone who loves the more experimental end of Detroit techno.
Review: The Model brings great form and function to this arresting new EP on long-running French label Partout. It kicks off with 'I Am Always On Your Mind' which has bright, glass melodies and snappy snares that very much get your attention while 'Crossover' is a more frazzled bit of synth-laden techno with sci-fi motifs and withering melodies. 'Six Days Of Heat' is a slower groove with another big focus on the melodies, this time they are rather eerie and unsettling. Last of all is 'Global' with its smeared pads and dusty drum work.
Review: The fact that this is the 13th release in the Ohm series catalogue need not impede the assurance of quality by way of superstitions about unlucky numbers. New ones from Modernism, Tim Kossmann, Bec Kaczor and Kirill Matveev work through gassy textures that rasp against negative, membranous moulds, be this on the understated, unassuming 'Love Goes' or the neurotransmissive 'Deserve Rage'. Bjarnar Jonsson has a good radar for talent, and does a bang-up A&R job on this resistant, reactant techno comp.
Review: Glasweigian producer Modus follows an impressive run of releases on Alien, Communications, Sungate and Outer Zone with his latest effort on the ever reliable Assemble Music out of Portugal. This one is titled Expressions; a four track affair covering a wide selection of expertly engineered techno moods such as the Mills/Hood influenced minimal techno workout 'Drive A' and the futuristic electro beat mesmeriser 'Mako Reactor' on the first side, followed over on the flip with another hypnotising heads-down techno belter indebted to Detroit's second wave in the form of 'Plotting'. Tip!
Review: New York-based minimal electronica artist Brendon Moeller takes cues from drum & bass and lowercase on his latest record for ESP Institute. Like a sonic Hockney painting, just six generous tracks span a curtly two sides on 12", as classy deluges marry with designer percs, conspiring to make a large but radially controlled splash. Every experiential stylistic base Moeller has passed so far, such as IDM or ambient dub, is revisited and checked off, and combined to form a wet emulsion here. 'Vibrations', the highlight of ours, pays special attention to fricative, stimulant audio-exploits in the sound design, with its synthetic mid-claves and potent rubber basses sounding like the reflex responses it predicts and expects from us. No wonder ESP liken the entire record to one big tingling sensation.
Review: This electrifying release delivers a dark, immersive journey through the realms of sci-fi and subterranean soundscapes. Side-1 opens with 'Intro', a cinematic, otherworldly prelude that sets the tone with eerie atmospherics. It segues into 'Sarcofago', a compelling blend of alien techno and electro, drenched in shadowy, subterranean vibes that create a sense of unease yet intrigue. 'El Ritual' continues the descent, invoking a hypnotic rhythm that feels ceremonial and enigmatic. Side-2 picks up the pace with 'Ocultismo', an uptempo electro banger that combines relentless beats with sharp, futuristic textures. The closing track, 'Puerta Al Inframundo', is a climactic plunge into the underworld, where deep, resonant basslines and haunting melodies evoke a sense of crossing into uncharted sonic dimensions. This record masterfully balances dark energy with driving grooves.
Review: Italian house lover Fabio Monesi returns to his Wilson label - named and styled after that unforgettable volleyball in Castaway - with a collab EP next to Tom Carruthers. It's rooted in traditional tropes from the 90s and US scenes starting with the kicking, retro flavours of 'Mi Amor' before 'The Bass Theory' brings on, yep, some more heavy bass-driven grooves. Last of all is the more synth-laden 'Killer Fruit' which is a triumph in drum programming that will enliven any crowd.
Review: A fresh new take on progressive house with melodic depth and emotional resonance. The original version is a mainfloor gem, combining uplifting melodies with a tech-infused rhythm that creates a reflective and mood-driven atmosphere. Its swaying progression and emotional undertones make it perfect for peak moments on the dancefloor. On the flip side, the remix transforms the original into a reserved anthem with an inspiring vocal message. It leans towards trance with its euphoric build-ups, yet the tempo aligns seamlessly with contemporary techno trends, making it both versatile and powerful. Emotion-soaked dancefloor energy.
Review: Mono Junk has long been putting Finland on the map with his unique take on techno for decades. The irrepressible talisman this time makes a solo debut on Cold Blow with his IATI EP. As always it is atmospheric stuff that brings more than just machine grooves: the opener and title track marries slick drums with molten synth work and a dreamy male vocal which has a meditative effect. There is also synth heavy techno such as 'Love Divine' and the deep and bleeping sonic pulses of 'I Am Yours (You're Mine)' to lock you in. Another artful EP.
Review: Mono Junk only loosely uses techno as a foundation for exploration of various different forms on this new EP on Cold Blow. The opener has jacked-up beats with an electro feel and prying bass that brings great bounce. 'Gamma' is brilliantly dark and moody with domineering synth notes and shuffling hi-hats getting heads down and feet marching. Katerina's Mind mix of the opener then opens it up into a more expansive and widescreen synth world and the Sansibar is pure muscular rhythm.
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: Release Sustain, a London-based underground label, is pleased to introduce a new EP by Moody Waters, the label's founder. "Beneath the Moon" is a four-track EP that offers a refreshing blend of deep techno and house sounds. With steady beats and intriguing vibes, "Beneath the Moon" is a versatile addition to any DJ's collection. This EP explores an underground sound that combines the essence of house and techno, making it an enjoyable listen for those interested in electronic music in 2023. Don't miss the chance to check out this latest offering from Moody Waters and and awesome remix from Fred P. Grab your copy of "Beneath the Moon" and discover why fans are appreciating this new release from Release Sustain.
Review: Batu's Timedance is about as consistently fresh and forward-thinking as electronic labels get right now. Bristol's Daisy Moon is next up to carry the baton and is fresh off a standout house cut on Peach Discs in June. Here she opens with the precise drum rhythms and glitchy percussion of 'Eclipse' while 'Shadow Of Silhouettes' is a shimming, shape shifting arrangement with daubs of synth, frenzied lines, chopped-up vocals and plenty more all vying for your attention. 'The Abyssal Zone' then brings some dubby broken beats to the fore and 'Meadow Rap' flips the script entirely with some lush downtempo.
Review: London-based label Dancing With Strangers returns from a brief hiatus with its third vinyl offering and this one goes from boss man Oliver Moon. In his third solo release, Moon presents two impressive tracks that both exemplify his raw production style and maintain a consistent groove while blending deep, dreamy sounds with sophisticated percussion. Co-founder Agile Kind takes on remix duties for the dubby and heady 'Downstream' and enhances the lead bassline with lush pads and crisp drum programming. Completing the EP, the don that is Carl Finlow delivers a stellar electro remix of 'Drifting' and layers in plenty of cinematic synths and acid stabs.
Review: David Morley makes a triumphant return to De: Tuned with his electrifying Fashion EP which was captured live and is now served up as a limited edition release pressed on striking grey marbled vinyl. Back in the early 90s, Belgian fashion icon Dirk Bikkembergs commissioned David Morley to craft a special musical piece for Paris Fashion Week. The resulting 'Fashion - Show' DAT tape recording presented here immortalises the vibrant energy of Morley's captivating live performance and marks a fusion of art and music that defined an entire era.
Review: Basel-based Morphing Territories once again heads out into unknown electronic realms on this new album Imaginary Ark. His intergalactic exploration is defined buy its supple lines and mind-melting synth pulses. They sound at once ancient and mystic but also futuristic and new. Sub-aquatic sounds and cosmic signifiers coexist with distant bird calls, ripples in space-time and slinky minimal rhythms that are ever-present. As the sounds roam onward, there are bubbling basslines and shimmering melodies, reverberating echoes and ricocheting beats that are always on the move. To craft a world as fulsome and idiosyncratic as this is no mean feat but Morphing Territories does it with aplomb.
Review: Finnish twosome Morphology has released some incredible records over the years - mostly of the intergalactic electro time - but we'd wager few are as sonically sparkling, life-affirming or pleasingly melodious as their latest two-tracker. 'Destroit', the A-side cut, is simply sublime: a far-sighted, futuristic fusion of crunchy, Chicago-influenced machine drums - all snappy snares, tough kicks and fizzing cymbals arranged into a delicious post-electro rhythm - intergalactic chords and bright, breezy electronic melodies that tap into the sci-fi sounds of purist Motor City techno. The duo opts for a warmer and woozier, acid-flecked sound on flipside 'Distance', a classic-sounding chunk of deep ambient techno tailor-made for late nights and early mornings.
Review: London-based underground label Release Sustain is proud to announce the release of a brand new EP by Chicago's Jamal Moss, Mathematics Recordings label head, is one of the most uncompromising artists in the game. Famed for his raw, lo-fi approach to house, he messes with the rules and makes unpredictable, unforgettable sounds like few others. Here he arrives on London's Release Sustain with four cuts of relentless drum programming and acid melodies that traverse the line between house and techno. From the slow and wonky opener to the coruscated 'The Dark Hold of the Bold' via the distorted and deprived 'The Nu Glance Sound' this is a fine EP.
Review: David 'Move D' Moufang may have released music on many different labels over the years, but remarkably this contribution to the label's RX series marks his belated debut on Rawax. As you'd expect given the Heidelberg-based veteran's stellar career and exceptional track record, there's much to set the pulse racing throughout. He starts in sparkling, life-affirming mode via the deliciously dreamy synths, bustling drum machine percussion, acid bass and spacey synth sounds of 'Circle To The Square', before exploring darker, moodier, wilder and more twisted, techno-influenced tackle on 'Sweet Heini'. Boulliabass lends a hand on the ultra-deep, ambient techno-tinged house hypnotism of 'Drone', while 'Ripples (2023 Version)' wraps undulating melodies and hazy chords around a head-nodding, locked-in deep house groove.
Review: Of all the many projects tangled up in the late Pete Namlook's mercurial Fax +49 label, his enduring collaborations with Move D were surely some of the finest. Given they managed to commit to over 20 CDs in that time, it's no wonder many have struggled to get to grips with the sheer volume of material on offer. Luckily Away Records are manning a reissue operation which looks through these vast volumes and offers up some of the finest cuts. They last did this back in 2019 and now they're back from round two, picking the low-slung sci-fi electro funk of 'Silk Route' and the dubby ambient house mastery of 'Sleeplearnin' from 2008 and 2006 respectively as the abundant gifts to spoil our ears with.
Review: A part-posthumous reunion of a longstanding collaboration between two titans of German ambient, Move D and the late Pete Namlook hear three of their most enduring classics reissued via Away Music. Drawing on slightly different traditions - D hailing from sophisti-minimal and Namlook a denizen of the more beatless, heavenly ambient and trance flaunted on his FAX label - the pair almost always produced an unmistakable style together, mired in many-a hazy, padded cloud and modular texture. These hallmarks are on full display here with 'Hardwired Tangent' on particular - what sounds to be an early alt-version of their beautiful compilation cut 'Wear Your Love Out' - while the blissful B-sider 'Hardwired Hypotenuse + Asymptote' stands out as a more mathematical ponderance of ungrounded space.
Review: Keynote launches its debut with Keynote01 by the talented MOYA81, whose unique retro-synth style finds new life in a powerful industrial techno format. Known for his robotic vocals and experimental touches, MOYA81 brings a blend of gritty, machine-driven sounds and offbeat, playful elements to this 12" vinyl-only release. Rooted in a deep appreciation for both nostalgic and forward-thinking electronic music, this record showcases his unmistakable sound and is packed with character. It's a release as fitting for the dancefloor as it is for enthusiasts of industrial techno's distinct energy.
Review: Releases on the Ilian Tape label are nearly always two things - a) shrouded in mystery, and b) a little unconventional. Given that the painter who created the artwork gets a credit on the 12"s label but the musician or musicians themselves get no mention, it's fair to assume a) has been fulfilled. The music itself fulfils b) too, as hard edged rhythms clocking in closer to electro than techno provide a vehicle much softer, more sensitive musical flourishes. 'WantU' is probably the overall highlight, with its crystal clear arp riffing and Kraftwerk-esque bumping, but 'Chiemgau606', the rawer 'OSC' and 'Sinister808' should all appeal to those who like their grooves esoteric and full of personality - but ultimately still dancefloor slaying.
Review: While no two Mr G EPs sound the same, the veteran producer definitely has a trademark sound. That style - heavy, rough, stripped-back, smoky and fearlessly dancefloor focused - is naturally evident on his latest four-tracker for the Phoenix G label he founded a few years back as a vehicle for his productions. The Doin' Nothin' EP is pleasingly forthright and fiendishly heavy, with plenty of nods to his stomping techno past (he was, back in the 1990s, a member of heavy techno duo The Advent). For proof, check the throbbing, warehouse-ready nastiness of 'Sing It Loud', the razor-sharp intensity of 'Got My Groove On', where pulsating alien-sounding bass and jacking machine drums catch the ear, and the deep techno hypnotism of 'Been a Minute'.
Review: Utrecht's MRE makes his debut on 200 Records here and in doing so shows a passion for Detroit-style techno sounds. His rhythms draw from techno and breaks and ambient also helps cloud these classic, timeless grooves. 'Corizen' opens on a deep, dubby tip with languid chords for inward reflection, 'The Upper Room' then brings some gorgeous synth work straight from the Motor City and 'Do You See The Lighthouse Yet' is a lithe mix of wispy pads and elastic rhythms that ooze class. 'Zero Three Zero' shuts down this most sophisticated EP in a melancholic fashion.
Review: London label Fourier Transform welcome back Rekab (James Baker) and label debuter Mre for 'Ace High'. 'Armadillos' rolls up its chassis for a serious exercise in minimal weight, reconstituting tuned percussions as it trundles along, while Rekab's 'Always Having Fun' posits an ideal life-mode: a steady, direct current of enjoyment, set to hedonically calculated beats. 'Climbing High' rebates the percussions for a subtle lark's ascent in deep acid, while 'Ace' complementarily descends across cross-rhythmic breaks and harmonies.
Review: XTEP marks the first u-Ziq material from Mike Paradinas in some six years and precedes the release of a full album later from the Planet Mu boss due out this year. Having been coaxed away from his fine curation of Planet Mu over recent years with the Heterotic project done in cahoots with wife Lara Rix-Martin, Paradinas returns to his universally recognised u-Ziq project with this five track EP which seem to present a diverse and accessible snapshot of Paradinas' production palette, veering through smudged out analogue funk, gauzy piano house, pulsing electronic disco and more rhythmically diverse material. This would seem to justify Planet Mu's claim that Paradinas has abandoned "the furrow-browed quest for cutting-edge exploration, exchanging it for an altogether more carefree fun approach".
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