Harry Romero - "Revolution" (House Masters edit) (5:13)
Prunk & Rona Ray - "Keep It Simple" (6:41)
Review: The mighty Defeated has got a fun package on its hands here with some fat disco and house anthems primed and ready for big room summer fun. A'Studio's 'SOS' (feat Polina - Skylark remix - Nic Fanciulli edit) is chunky house with a hooky vocal and rolling groove designed to sweep you up and away. Chloe Caillet then remixes Tensnake's classic 'Coma Cat' into a hands-in-the-air house stomper with epic strings. Harry Romero's sweaty 'Revolution' gets its drums buffed up and well swung by a House Master's Edit and Prunk & Rona Ray steal the EP at the last with their lush vocal house cut 'Keep It Simple.'
Toby Tobias - "Streets of Gold" (Alphonse remix) (5:12)
Pyramids Of Space - "Quantis" (5:20)
Dance - "Amber" (4:25)
Review: Voice Notes is a new imprint run by London underground veteran Toby Tobias with Alphonse. A five track various artist EP, Voice Notes 002 is a time-honoured memorial for its sister label London Housing Trust, that they shut down a few years ago after 10 releases. Featuring tracks by label boss Tobias who delivers some emotive electro on 'Streets Of Gold', his evil twin Alphonse on the UK flava of 'Rujac', plus introducing Dance with the dub techno deconstruction of 'Amber', Rodney Bennett with the classic Stateside deep house of 'Palm Sunday' and Pyramids of Space with the downbeat IDM journey 'Quantis'.
Review: Deep Inspiration Show Records is back with a second part of its Global Essence Sampler and it is another 12" that offers great nourishment for mind, body and soul. Barce from Spain featuring Roger Versey opens up with some slow but heavy house grovers awash with rugged synth loops. Dan Piu's 'Ocean' is an aquatic and dubby roller for bliss doit vibes, and Zarenzeit taps into dreamy old school Italo house on 'Heard Echoes.' The same three artists appear in the same order on the flip with three other originals which tap into deeper Detroit schools of house, Balearic and electro stylings.
Review: B2 Recordings is a label run by Greek talent Bengoa as a platform to offer up his own diverse sounds. Here he serves up a new single featuring Pan that is sublime, seductive and deep. The vocals you will recognise from a classic pop hit but here they get all resung in an even more libidinous fashion. The drums roll, and the percussion is loose, and bright but soft chord stabs heighten the mood. Flip it over for an instrumental version of 'Thelxis' that is all about the late-night grooves. Two stylish sounds for romantic moments.
Review: Needs' commendable charity drive continues to bring forth the goods, both in terms of good causes and world class club music. Rallying round in support of World Mental Health Day 2020, Shanti Celeste kicks the record off in style with the rapid fire, deep-diving workout 'Fantasma'. OCB keeps the pressure up with the psychotropic techno of 'RS3', while Michelle works up some delightfully freaky synths on playful jacker 'Aesthetic'. Bobby's 'Free Your Mind' is a 90s-tinged, full fat techno production indebted to Detroit, Peder Mannerfelt keeps things stripped and raw on 'Our Levels' and Yu Su weaves a beautiful tapestry of interweaving rhythms on 'Brittney'. Adam Pits' trippy techno sounds resplendent on 'Wind Tunnel' and DJ Sports completes the set with the inventive, dembow slanted funk of 'Needs Dub'.
Peter Seiler - "Timebend" (feat Sheryl Hackett) (4:32)
Eoism - "Ultraverse" (5:00)
Voertuig - "Cego" (5:19)
Voertuig - "808 Ambient Jazz" (3:45)
Eoism - "Even Flow" (5:45)
Review: Colkin from Raw Soul and Mauke Club sets the tone on this new FUTUR compilation, which has been curated by Benedikt Meger with a spherical acid house meditation. Peter Seiler's track, a standout from the reissue of his debut album Flying Frames, features Sheryl Hackett's soulful vocals and merges song structure with jazz improvisation. Eoism from Pulse Drift, Undersound, and Inch By Inch delivers low-swung electro flavours perfect for sunset vibes while the B-side opens with Voertuig of Tonal Oceans and Cobra Club who presents a seriously raw acid jam followed by an experimental, jazzy piece, reminiscent of the 90s downtempo era. 'Eoism' closes things with a floating, futuristic banger, going to make a well rounded (in more ways than one) and ultimately very useful piece of vinyl.
Review: Burnski's high-quality Constant Black is back with more essential club-ready sounds. Donnie Cosmo and Pascal Benjamin step up for one side of action each. Cosmo's 'Holo Glitch' is first and pairs balmy synth work that is colourful and silky with some punchy tech drums and rolling bass that pulls you in deep. 'Echo Drift' is another lithe and lively one to get you on your toes while the groove flows and 'Airplane Mode' is another stylish mix of lush synth design and great rhythm. Benjamin's trio on the flip is a little more gritty with industrial-space-tech many the most fitting way to describe these curious cosmic cuts.
Review: It would be fair to say that Roy Davis Jr and Peven Everett's "Gabriel" (originally written "Gabrielle" on early pressings) has become a timeless dance music classic - a track that both soulful house and UK garage DJs reach for in times of trouble. Should it not be in your collection already (and it should be), Large Music has decided to re-master and re-press the original 1996 12". It does, of course, contain the now ubiquitous "Live Garage" version - the groovy two-step, trumpet-laden mix that became popular with early UK garage DJs - plus a trio of lesser-known remixes. The Tambourine Dub, in particular, is something of a tough, warehouse-friendly deep house treat.
Review: House Cookin''s series House Cookin' Wax serves up a sixth delicious collection of trad house sounds here, all from a range of fresh names. DJ Merci's 'Just A Groove' is perfect 90s revivalism with golden, soft focus chords and nice woody beats and hits. Bruno Bar's 'A House Of Music' layers in some pensive spoken words to a nice chord-driven groove that is deep but dynamic. Pat Lezizmo continues on this same deliciously deep tip with more analogue excellence on 'Not In A Hurry', all with a nice dub underbelly, then Reagan Mian's 'Caracole' closes out with a little more bump and grind
Review: Part one of Refuge's new La Decima V/A 12" series hears select tunes from select artists, all of whom have made significant contributions to the label's catalogue over the years. Spanning everything from firmly driven nu-disco to scratch n' sniff garage house to Chi-style stompers, we're more than enthralled by this well-rounded resonator. The best of the bunch has to be Demuir's 'Vibez High', which moves unabashed and stringy, its clawing claps, freeze-locked funk licks and scraping open hats painting a vivid street scene set outside the house.
Doni & Leo Young - "Rebelion In The City Of Gangia" (6:03)
Pastaboys - "On & On" (Panna mix) (6:32)
Hiver - "Magic Crusade" (5:51)
GPM, Steve Mantovani, Dan-E-MC, Daniele Mad - "House In Full Effect" (9:21)
Feel Fly - "Armaduk" (6:08)
Review: Rebirth is thrilled to announce the release of three bonus parts of the 'Ciao Italia. Generazioni Underground' album in 2023, available on limited edition vinyl. 'Ciao Italia' Bonus Quattro, Cinque and Sei continue to connect two generations - the trailblazers of the early 90s and those continuing the legacy today, with a futuristic perspective and renewed energy. Bonus Sei includes classic tracks from legends like Doni & Leo Young, Pastaboys, G.P.M., Steve Mantovani, Dan-E-Mc, Daniele Mad, along with unreleased material from newer Italian artists such as Hiver and Feel Fly.
3kelves & We Are Neurotic - "Laguna Reservoir Funk" (4:00)
Naux - "Foxxy Cleopatra" (6:18)
Partner Music - "People Should Romance" (5:15)
Review: Moiss Music is dropping two slabs of heat this month - their sixth and seventh EPs overall. Both are various artists' collections with plenty of 'floor-facing disco fun. Mathew Ferness opens this one with 'Paradisio' which has plenty of inspiration taken from late afternoon dances somewhere like Ibiza. 3kelves & We Are Neurotic get you working your feet with the busy percussive grooves and squelchy synth funk of 'Laguna Reservoir Funk' while Naux brings lots of loopy fun and throwback vocal goodness to his steamy 'Foxxy Cleopatra.' Partner Music rounds out the EP with the most energetic and busy of the lot - the restless melodies of 'People Should Romance.'
Review: 'Suite For Chick' is a heartfelt tribute to the late jazz legend Chick Corea. This 12" was assembled to reimagine classics like 'City Gate, Rumble,' 'Time Track,' 'Hymn of the Heart' and Return to Forever's 'Romantic Warrior.' It finds Bangkok-based Maarten Goetheer collaborating with Thailand's jazz virtuoso Pong Nakornchai and blending Wurlitzer chords, Moog basslines, ARP leads and Rhodes phasings. Inspired by his jazz-pianist father, Maarten fuses classic jazz with modern genres like techno, cosmic disco and ambient for a fresh take on jazz fusion. These electrifying interpretations honour Corea's pioneering legacy in jazz and fusion from his groundbreaking work with Miles Davis to founding Return to Forever.
Review: The Fourier Transform label outlay an arresting sonic journey on their debut release, bringing together breakbeat, ambient IDM, ambient techno, and prog house under a single banner. Opening with Inkipak's 'Betwixt', we're met with sonorous low-mid square waves and machine-gun-fire breaks, recalling the breathtaking, verging on apocalyptic expanse of a warehouse rave turned laser light show turned warzone. We break from this warring weir with 'Omnicron Acid' and 'City Of Tomorrow' by Gimmik and Brian Kage respectively, which lowers the intensity and sonic flow via spacious atmospheres and dudding percussive pops. Finally, the perfect fusion of the former two moods is achieved on 'Corrosive Tongue', the lead synth on which sounds like just that.
Review: Intrallazzi and Dario Piana have been friends and Milanese scene contemporaries since 1981, when they both fell in love with the distinctive Afro-Cosmic sound of local DJ (and later Piana collaborator) Daniel Baldelli. Since then, they have both made records aplenty under a variety of aliases, but this EP on Leng marks their first joint release. The headline attraction is opener (and lead cut) 'Out of Control', a dubbed-out cosmic disco chugger propelled by echo-laden percussion and a deep, low-slung bassline, smothered in psychedelic synth and guitar sounds. Fellow Italian producer LTJ Experience remixes, offering up a stripped-back and acid-flecked interpretation. Elsewhere, 'Lazise' is a TB-303-sporting cosmic shuffler and 'Saocraffen' is a Baldelli-influenced fusion of Afro-cosmic funk and ethereal Balearic sounds.
John Summit & Parachute Youth - "Better Than This" (5:44)
Parachute Youth - "Can't Get Better Than This" (5:06)
Review: Indie house duo Parachute Youth released their 'Can't Get Better Than This' single back in 2012 and it went on to become a huge international hit. Now they have resisted it after pairing up with Chicago house vocalist John Summit. Renamed 'Better Than This' it becomes a spine-tingling vocal house cut with warm, shuffling drums and subtle synth work. Packed with blissful and youthful vibes and plenty of sun, it is an energetic rework that has a nice touch of nostalgia and a bassline that will lock in any crowd for days. As well as the easy to love new version, the still lush original version is also included on the flip.
Review: The third volume in Colpo Grosso's edits series amounts to yet another slinky slice of sensual post-Italo disco sundries. With each original artist and track title on the record respectively lent a three-letter and N-letter abbreviation, we'll leave it to you to piece together the puzzle as regards to whose source material is being reworked here. On this occasion, the hired hands are Massimo Voci, M.B. Funk, Wandevogel and Legowelt, each of whose takes on the various steam-downs and sweat lodgings of the genius genre that is Italo amount to four farther, slammingly sexual condensations of the sound. Our fave has to be Vandevogel's version of 'PRNDLCS', which starts out dramatically downcast before launching into a well-placed implantation of baritone sax and *bonne brisse* vocals.
Review: Whether she likes it or not, Sophie Lloyd will always be known for the unfeasibly uplifting gospel disco-meets-gospel-house anthem 'Calling Out'. That was released five years ago and ever since, she's struggled to embrace it's shadow. With 'Angels By My Side', Lloyd seems to have embraced this, delivering another fine gospel-powered number that inhabits a similar sonic space while being different enough to avoid accusations of treading water. It's genuinely good, too, with Pauline Taylor delivering superb lead vocals over a hybrid gospel disco/stomping gospel sound hybrid full of Hammond organ licks, booming bass guitar, piano house riffs and stirring orchestration. In other words, it's another anthem in waiting.
Review: According to the hype sheet we have to hand, the "Home Turf EP" is House of Disco's first multi-artist extravaganza for two years. There's plenty to get the juices flowing throughout, from the bounding bounciness of LPM's rap-sampling disco-house cut "Get With It", to the impeccably warm and sun-kissed jazz-house vibes of Purple Ice's "Adeus". In between you'll find the rolling, synth-heavy warmth of Mix & Fairbanks' deliciously loved-up "Shergar's Revenge" and "Me, You, Us" by Shee, a chunky sample-house number full of swirling strings, looped guitar riffs, hazy chords and righteous spoken word samples.
Review: Andrew Macari joins up with Paka Project for a first outing on the fledgling Greenhouse Recordings labels here and delves deep into some true-school deep house. 'Beeston Fields Drive' is a warm and diffuse opener that rolls on loopy drums with balmy chords melted over the top. 'Hold Dat' has jazzy motifs and funky bass riffs down low that remind of early West Coast tech house sounds from the likes of Fresh & Low and 'All We Need' then layers up r&b samples and even more smooth and silky late-night chords into a real smoocher. 'PR Process' ends on low-slung and lumpy drums and spoken word samples run through with dubby chords.
Tu Amor (feat Persona RS - Your Love Spanish version) (5:40)
Tu Amor (feat Persona RS- Double Drop Luke E Soul re-edit) (7:14)
Review: Sometimes, the right track just lands in your lap. That's exactly what happened with Mamacita's 'Tu Amor', a Chilean cover of Jamie Principle & Frankie Knuckles' 'Your Love'. Originally released in 2012, it started making waves after being played in sets by the Idjut Boys, catching the attention of DJ Steve KIW, who passed it on to Mr Bongo. It quickly became a favorite. While playing in Barcelona, Luke Una dropped the track in his set, and it instantly clicked with him. The track's raw, DIY vibe, paired with its quirky arrangement, made it a perfect fit for E Soul Cultura, and now it's getting its first vinyl release. The song was created by Chilean DJ Mamacita (Carolina Vallejos) and producer Persona RS (Sebastian Roman) on lo-fi equipment, channeling a DIY energy that recalls early Chicago house. It became a hit in Chile's underground scene, though it didn't receive much attention outside of Latin America and the US. For this release, Luke Una and Luke Solomon re-edited it, extending the track and emphasising its wonky synths, while still keeping that unique cosmic feel. Both the original and the re-edit are included in this vinyl release, bringing new life to a previously overlooked gem.
Review: Visions returns with another sharp collection of future-facing house, opening with a luxuriant, mid-tempo glide from Sean McCabe. A long-time figure in Bristol's soulful house scene, McCabe is known for his richly textured arrangementsiand this one, built on warm keys and featherlight percussion, leaves plenty of air in the mix. 'Rawai' from Alex & Stephan Attias moves in deeper, with Sohan Wilson's Rhodes work lending a dusty, meditative energy that simmers beneath the surface. The Attias brothers, both key players in Geneva's jazz-not-jazz underground, remain fluent in groove and restraint alike. Patrice Scott, a cornerstone of Detroit's second wave, brings both heft and elegance with 'Movements', arguably his most hypnotic production in recent memoryislow to unfold but rich with detail. Finally, Eva May debuts on the label with 'Test One', a slinky, electro-leaning cut bristling with sinewy funk. Based in Paris and new to production after years of DJing across Europe, she keeps things stripped-back and sharp, with a promise of more to come.
Review: This week in minimal tech house we have some wicked underground material courtesy of new label Syntaxx out of Leeds. If the tracks on Syntaxx Waxx Vol 1 are anything to go by, this crew are on to big things in 2021 and beyond. Features Mehlor with the hypnotic swing of "Wurk" reminiscent of local hero Jack Wickham, AWSI goes into UKG territory on the woozy "SPD" while over on the flip Parsec delves into druggy microhouse realms on the afterhours paranoid shuffle of "Error" and Nate SU delivers the mandatory Rominimal style track on the lean groove of "Trip".
Review: Weirdo minimal tech soul, anyone? Any takers should be directed towards this oddball release from Melchior Productions and Paul Walter. Two tracks of serious strangeness: timestretched vocals and repetitious yeahs blossom between the beat-thickets of Melchior's 'Yeah X 3', while many more percussive hits and cuts and clicks and pops and booms come courtesy of Walter's B-side, 'Xvive'. It's an impressive first foray for Maria Newyen's new imprint Scious; let's hope future 12"s stay just as weird.
Review: Edition 8 from Bread & Butter Recordings is another sophisticated outing into the world of minimal and tech house from four fine artists. Modebaku's 'Kindred' is the kinetic, waify, wispy opener that gets deep under your skin and Primarie then gets more zoned out on curious and nebulous pads on 'Euforie.' Techu's 'Storytelling' then rides on super warm and smooth-cruising beats with supple synths laced throughout. It is the sort of tune you want to hear as the sun peaks through the blinds at the afters, while Ted Amber's 'Snozeer' is another colourful and diffuse tech house charmer.
What Cha Gonna Do With My Lovin (instrumental mix) (7:00)
You Gonna Make Me Love Somebody Else (extended club mix) (8:14)
You Gonna Make Me Love Somebody Else (instrumental mix) (7:38)
Review: Spencer Morales taps into the most lavish and soulful end of the house spectrum here with a glorious new single 'What Cha Gonna Do With My Lovin.' The glossy and sophisticated production oozes charm and high end touches while the vocals are as pure as they come - soaring, full of soul and nicely in sync with the rolling beats and golden chords, sumptuous strings and loose percussion. On the flip, 'You Gonna Make Me Love Somebody Else' is a rework of a disco classic with another catchy vocal and more infectious soulful house grooves.
Review: A rich exploration of minimal and tech house sounds with a nostalgic twist. The EP kicks off with 'Istinto,' blending futuristic techno with elements of house music and early 90s bass vibes, all wrapped in spacey sounds that evoke a sense of cosmic adventure. Next, 'Aura' delivers a stomping, darker beat designed to capture attention and drive energy on the dancefloor. Side-2 features 'Potenza' which channels raw techno reminiscent of 1991, incorporating trance elements for a nostalgic feel. The track's energetic vibe and vintage touches make it great for old skool sets. 'Essenza' ends the EP with a great groove and atmospheric feel good melody. A devastating blend of beauty and brawn. Dynamic, engaging tracks that will resonate with techno enthusiasts.
Vente Pa Ca (feat Jimena Angel, Jah Sazzah & Poirier) (4:34)
Vente Pa Ca (feat Jimena Angel, Jah Sazzah & Poirier - Poirier remix) (3:47)
Review: This is a global single with a great story that starts with an afro-funk groove made by Italian Jah Sazzah. He wanted a vocal for it so turned to Nickodemus who handed his own touches and then sent it Grammy-nominated Colombian vocalist Jimena Angel. The result is a vibrant Afro tune with vivid melodies. Remixer Poirier is a legend in Latin music circles. The Montreal man has formerly been associated with Ninja Tune and is synonymous with lots of classy remixes and fresh takes on a modern Afro-Caribbean sound. This is another one that reworks the ring into a more bouncy and infectious sound with gorgeous vocals and a clean arrangement that allows the drums and perc to shine.
Review: FXHE maintain their monthly heat emission for 2012, with label boss Omar S displaying all aspects of his production prowess (as well as skill for a humorous track titles) across four productions - one of which features the button bashing assistance of one Patrik Sjeren. There's something icily brilliant about the restrained "Income Tax Refund Dance" melding a dark piano riff with snapping 808 kicks and rippling lo fi rhythms which only further justifies the title of Omar S's killer 2011 LP. It's complemented by the far rowdier box jam "The White Castle Song" which jackhammers a simple yet highly flammable key riff over low rent percussion for FXHE's most potent ode to the perfect warehouse moment since the all conquering "Here's Your Trance..." Given the lack of additional info, we presume the Patrik Sjeren that produces the B Side "Untitled" track is the same Patrik Sjeren that released in the mid 90s under a multiplicity of aliases, and his contribution is every bit as incendiary as the track preceding it, whilst "3c 273" sees Omar S slip into pensive utopian electro mode with aplomb.
G-Connection - "Free Your Spirit" (Spirit mix) (6:12)
Snare Dream - "LaLaLa" (Deep Ambient) (5:26)
TiEs - "Trying To" (5:59)
Review: Rebirth invites us to go back, way back, to the Italian underground techno scene of the 90s with this new selection of alternate versions, unheard gems and certified classics. Oneiric & Vortex open up with a tune that brings to mind the warmth of Motor City techno on 'Oasi' before GNMR layer up supersized hi hats and seriously weighty beatdown drums, Populous offers the loopy melodic delight of 'Barragan' and G-Connection heads into the cosmos with the dreamy ambient of 'Free Your Spirit', a perfect mood build if ever we heard one. Two further gorgeously blissed-out post-rave comedown sounds close out this gem of an EP.
Review: Back Of The Bus is always where the cool kids hung out and on the evidence of this first release that will be true of this label too. It comes with fresh and characterful artwork and minimal house beats packed with charm. Manchester-based producer Pach is the man behind them and he opens up with the bouncy 'Double Trouble' before cutting up a more tough-edged groove with '7am Start.' 'Hassle In The Castle' has a nice percolating bassline that never lets up as narcotic pads drift and smear all around and 'Stairway To Heaven' gets all trippy and late night. This is a high-quality first EP.
Review: Manchester-based producer Pach, who you may remember from his much loved 'Pull Up & Dance' anthem on Darius Syrossian's popular Moxy Muzik label last year, produces a generously proportioned four track EP for the Aesthetic stable. Take note of the title, as it dictates the contents, with the A-side's two tracks, the title track and '21 Bump Street', proving to be the definite uppers, both adding a delirious feel of disco euphoria to a sturdy tech-house framework. The flip side features the slightly darker and more mysterious cuts 'Sticky Fingers' and closer 'Six N Switch', the latter featuring the sound of some rather decadent X-rated activities in full swing. Nice work if you can get it.
Review: After a near two-year break, the shadowy CUE Point label - an imprint based in Valencia, Spain - returns to stores. To reintroduce itself, the imprint has decided to offer-up a multi-artist EP featuring cuts from new signings, old heads and friends of the label. Pad Union kicks things off with the deep, dusty and gently jazzy 'Holodnaya Para' - all rich Rhodes chords, languid bass guitar and crunchy drum machine beats - before storied producer ScruScru joins forces with Guydee on the acid-fired, funk bass-propelled house bounce of 'Nesting Down'. Over on side T, Negroove's ghostly, slipped tech-house jam 'Smoked Jazz' (a track blessed with Villalobos-influenced percussion programming) is paired with EP highlight 'Grisha (Soe)', a chunky and organ-rich slab of peak-time tech-house by label regular Heavenchord.
Espantapajaros (feat La Perla - Poirer remix) (4:36)
Flor De Jazmin (feat Paz Court - John Beltran remix) (4:40)
Review: Pahua is a Mexican singer, percussionist, DJ and producer who was once part of the Sotomayor band but went solo in 2020. Her sound is steeped in Latin influences and resulted in a debut album in 2023 and she recently landed on Razor-N-Tape with some tracks that now get remixed on this new 7". First up is 'Espantapajaros' (feat La Perla - Poirer remix) which is a mix of deep drums and synths with some florid flutes up top to bring the colour and charm. On the flip side is 'Flor De Jazmin' (feat Paz Court - John Beltran remix) which layers in some lovely sunny melodies to the shuffling samba rhythms and expressive vocals.
Review: Ravanelli Disco Club has assembled a selection of remixes of Palavas and this first instalment of them comes from the likes of deep house master Jimspter, disco king DJ Rocca and the melodious Musumeci. It is the Freerange boss Jimpster who goes first with his version of 'One Night Is Not Enough', a lithe and soul drenched sound with horns, chords and vocals that all melt the heart. Musumeci brings a more direct and soulful techno sound, and the DJ Rocca remix is a sparkly one full of cosmic energy. 'Chevauchee Fantastique' (JKriv remix) brings some classic string-laced Philly sounds and Dicky Trisco shuts down with Metro Area style nu-disco.
Review: Ukrainian selector and producer Lola Palmer makes her first appearance on Get-Traum with a blend of groovy, vestibular, and deep sonorities, blending the very best of lo-fi and progressive house motifs to produce a slickly recalled dream. Backed up by a filtrating titration of flicky acid funk by Alci, the bulk of the EP can be best qualified as a lurch through liminal space. Best in this category is 'Be Sure', a warming buildup not to be belied, if only for its creep-up pads and automatic, deep-mind, reflexive bass lines.
Review: Aimed's return to its roots with Palmiz channels a familiar energy for fans of the label. 'Strange From 94' sets the stage, with euphoric, atmospheric vibes perfect for expansive, open-air raves. 'Chimera' follows, blending trance and house into a hypnotic groove, its smooth synths and rolling percussion creating a captivating intro for any set. On the B-side, 'Tropyc' offers a more utilitarian rhythm, moving away from melody and focusing on functionality, perfect for building momentum. 'Acid Washing' closes the EP with a driving bassline that intensifies the release's energy, adding an edge that pushes the vibe into sharper territory, capping off a well-rounded, nostalgic journey.
Review: CWPT will play home to Palms Trax's original productions. His latest offering is 'Petu', a new single featuring South African vocalist, Nonku Phiri. Originally debuting in dub form (featured for your convenience over on the flip) during his appearance on The Music Locker as part of Grand Theft Auto Online, it is an absolutely emotive number reaching near spiritual moments and complemented by Phiris' wonderful vocal. Masalos' remix takes the track into neon-lit disco territory and is equally worthy of your attention.
Review: It's been a long time since we heard from Pangaea, one of the three famous faces who made up the original Leeds label come ubiquitous DJ's DJ's DJ imprint - Hessle Audio. Though perhaps less appreciated than his contemporaries Ben UFO and Pearson Sound, now's his time to shine again: Changing Channels is his second ever album, following up 2016's In Drum Play (which for all its quality, rough, juddering techno experiments, will always line the shelves of many a budding selector). Like its predecessor, oddball bassy techno is here Pangaea's preferred mode, whether reflected in the sassy femme vocal cutups of 'Installation' or the spitting basses of 'Squid'. This is one of two vinyl 12"s over which the album is spread; an effort to enhance its playability for DJs.
Review: Pangaea's latest album Changing Channels comes a notable seven years after his debut, In Drum Play, and again hears the Hessle brain lay down a whopping demo in dance histrionics. Made in a period of oscillation - between international DJ sets and holidays of downtime and r&r - we get the impression of a remarkably clear-headed album, with the production crisp, and the choice and placement of samples neat. On this 12", we hear the LP's first part, with the no-fuss garagey 'Hole Away' and the stabby 'Changing Channels' piquing particular interest.
Review: The exceptionally named Panty Soaker Sound System bursts onto the scene here with a powerful debut EP on their own self-titled label. 'Hormones' marks the inaugural outing and is a track that ignites the floor while exploring self-empowerment and inner desires. It has picked up early praise from Honey Dijon and is a full-throttle and steamy, erotic house sound that is sure to become a bit of a winter anthem. The EP includes three acid-infused original mixes, followed by the Prosumer HorMoans Remix which is a dark stomper with prickly 303 lines and a heavy groove. For those craving a harder vibe, the LUXE Dark Room Remix delivers a broken-beat reimagining with high-energy that takes you to new heights.
Paolino & Gianni Bini - "Love" (Classic mix) (6:33)
Sasha - "Key To Heaven" (6:14)
Paramour & Adrian Morrison - "Transmutation" (7:51)
Open Spaces - "The Far Side Of The Mood" (5:46)
Review: Rebirth's fresh new 12" is a various artists affair that looks back while striding forwards. It is full of the sort of bliss out, dreamy, soft-edge deep house that is perfect for the warmer months and outdoor dances. Paolino & Gianni Bini lead the way with the effortlessly hazy and lush feeling 'Love' (Classic mix) while Sasha's 'Key To Heaven' is a perfect prog house tune that harks back to the heyday of Renaissance. Paramour & Adrian Morrison then link for the more dark and driving 'Transmutation' which has train track drums and suspensory chords always building but never bubbling over. Open Spaces run out with the widescreen and chunky dub house of 'The Far Side Of The Mood.'
Review: Floorbound body-occupiers from Papa Nugs and The Trip for Tessellate, blanching wildstyle hip electro and irky rave sounds. With the A-side totally taken up by 'Keep Rocking' in two versions, we've a modish street style version in 'Casa Nova' form and a 'Hip House' breakbeat rendition. Then come the underside dread ones: 'Fearsome' tilts in the direction of ever more raviness with tuned, sandstorming stabs and gated voxes, while 'All Night' takes a dash of speed garage to the mishmash, air-raid sirens sounding through held chords all around.
Review: Aad de Mooy is better known as Paradise 3001 and has been releasing his fulsome take on techno since the mid 90s. Blue Highway is an EP from back then, 1994 to be exact, and it has aged faultlessly because these tracks will slot into any modern set without a problem, and likely be some of the best in it, in fact. It kicks off with the warped synth and bass entanglements of 'Mind & Motion' before the more gloopy and cosmic bass of 'Ludomil 75'. It's a masterful bit of future music that's followed by the vibrant Jaydee-like 'Blue Highways' and dreamier scapes of 'The Gates Of Dawn' and progressive cosmic funk of 'Mellow Moebe.'
The Parallax Corporation - "Shadow Figures" (6:11)
Ron Morelli - "Hot On Wheels" (5:59)
Robert Bergman - "Acid Tapes 88" (9:02)
Redray - "Early Swang" (4:41)
Review: Heat Recordings presents a special release marking the comeback of The Parallax Corporation (I-F & Intergalactic Gary) after a 20-year hiatus, alongside works by Ron Morelli, Robert Bergman, and Redray. This compilation features four tried and tested cuts from real-life gatherings, assembled onto a single disc for maximum impact. On Side-1, The Parallax Corporation's 'Shadow Figures' - A catchy and unusual blend of house and techno, sure to capture attention with its creative clash of sounds. Ron Morelli's 'Hot On Wheels' is afuturistic romp featuring unusual sounds that propel the track into the future For Side-2, Robert Bergman's 'Acid Tapes 88' is a deep acid cut, heady and raw, paying homage to the underground sound of house and techno. Lastly, Redray's 'Early Swang' harnessing Detroit and Chicago's legacy in all their glory. This has us flashbacking to our warehouse days, offering a nostalgic yet fresh take on the genre. Heat05 is as strong as it is diverse, offering essential gear for those exploring the depths of minimal, experimental and acid techno.
Review: Spencer Parker delivers a masterclass in unadulterated house, stripping back the excess to focus on raw, direct energy. The opening track pushes forward with a tight rhythm section, a pulsing bassline, and crisp percussion, all working in seamless sync to create a groove that demands attention without overcomplicating things. The vocal sample on 'You're A Cool Girl' is looped into a hypnotic motif, evoking a sense of urgency and repetition that doesn't wear thin. Later, the mood shifts with a darker, more industrial tone, where staccato beats and metallic edges add an intensity that builds steadily. There's no fluff here, just focused, dancefloor-ready rhythms that get straight to the point.
Review: In classic Detroit house style, genius Terence Parker of the outstanding 'Love's Got Me High' takes it to church with the previously unreleased re-edit 'Help Is On The Way'. If you love your house raw and deep with an intensely driving organ, hi hat and the call and response of pumped up choir and preacher, be transported by this next level house track, his first release in eight years! Each track a joy, the soulful and destined for dance floor greatness 'Tonight We Love' provides an array of brass and bassline that breaks and builds with percussive claps and syncopated cymbals united in weavings of voices and instruments. Then, the gorgeous 'I Love You (More Than You Know)' brings an endearing vocal over a driving and deliciously relentless techno back beat and organ refrain that winds up and down throughout. Enjoy too the instrumental version of A1, harder, deeper and more analogue in feel. Spoiling us, this EP on Parker's Intangible label, illustrates the infectiousness that deep house produces when in exceptionally loving hands. A total must for all who love house and beyond...
Review: A true classic by the Detroit house legend Terrence Parker on his influential Intangible imprint here. It's none other than 'A Emancipation For My Soul', a seminal track originally released in 1995. Properly soulful and life-affirming house music that captures the zeitgeist of the mid-'90s just perfectly. Over on the flip there's 'A Track 4 O.J. Simpson', recorded around the same time as the criminal trial which gripped the world - this is one deep, down and dirty stomper sure to rock the dancefloor.
Review: This is the latest repress of a classic from Terrence Poker who dedicated it to Detroit DJ Legend Ken Collier when it first arrived. His passing "deeply touched" Parker and no doubt many others given the influence he had with the music he played. It comes on silver vinyl and opens with Parker's classic house gem 'Love's Got Me High' (Tribute mix) then takes in the blissed-out 'Love Love' and gets more jacked up and loopy with the B-side 'Why After All This.' Closer 'Somethin' Here' is steeped in loopy disco baselines with dancing chords and irresistible funk. A must-own 12".
Review: New Theo Parrish? Yes please. The Sound Signature boss remains in a class of one and continually finds new ground to explore in the studio, often taking a freeform jazz mindset to roughed-up house and techno that blends the mechanical with the soulful in otherworldly, hypotonic fashion. 'Orange Barrel Action (Yellow Flashing Light mix)' is very much in that mould with lumpy drums detuned and off-grid keys and hissing hi-hats all coalescing into something seductive and subversive. 'Pianamonn' is a deep house foundation topped with weird and wonky keys in inimitable Parrish style.
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