DJ MAG TOP COMPILATIONS OF 2023

ABOVE BOARD PROJECTS / VELOCITY PRESS

View this list on the website with audio and pre-order information ➠

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Hi All,

We’re happy to see a few of our releases in this years ‘DJ Mag Top Compilations Of 2023‘ list – see below.

Please note, HLLP2 is currently out of stock but please send your pre-orders as we’ll be repressing in the new year.

Thanks,

AB x

Fabio Presents - Generation Liquid

Fabio, Various Artists

Generation Liquid (Volume 1)

Above Board Projects

GENLIQ001

2 x 12"

£16.99

Fabio, Various Artists

Generation Liquid (Volume 2)

Above Board Projects

GENLIQ002

2 x 12"

£16.99


Happy Land (A Compendium Of Electronic Music From The British Isles 1992-1996)

Various Artists

Happy Land (A Compendium Of Electronic Music From The British Isles 1992-1996 Volume 1)

Above Board Projects

HLLP1

2 x 12"

£16.50

Various Artists

Happy Land (A Compendium Of Electronic Music From The British Isles 1992-1996 Volume 2)

Above Board Projects

HLLP2

2 x 12"

£16.50


Who Say Reload (Original 90's Jungle and Drum & Bass)

Various Artists

Who Say Reload Volume One (Original 90s Jungle and Drum & Bass)

Velocity Press

VELOCITY001

2 x 12"

£16.50

Various Artists

Who Say Reload Volume Two (Original 90s Jungle and Drum & Bass)

Velocity Press

VELOCITY002

2 x 12"

£16.50




Releases in detail:

Fabio Presents - Generation Liquid

Artist Fabio, Various Artists
Title Generation Liquid (Volume 1)
Label Above Board Projects
Cat No GENLIQ001
Format 2 x 12"
Price £16.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 06/10/2023
Assets Download
All Genres [Bass] [Drum & Bass] [Liquid Drum & Bass]

Track Listing

A1. Artificial Intelligence - Switch On

A2. D. Kay - It’s On The Way

B1. Chase and Status - Hurt You

B2. Alix Perez - Forsaken (ft. Peven Everett & Spectrasoul)

C1. High Contrast - Racing Green

C2. Jaheim - Put That Woman First (Calibre Vocal Remix)

D1. Jonny L - Oh Yeah

D2. MJ Cole - Sincere (Marcus Intalex & S.T. Files Remix)

Description

Fabio, a true legend in the music industry for over three decades, kickstarted his illustrious career as a Pirate Radio DJ in the mid-80s. Throughout the years, he masterfully evolved his style across various musical genres, ranging from Dub and Hip Hop to House, until he ultimately solidified his position as one of the pioneering forces behind Jungle and Drum and Bass. Fate played a remarkable role in Fabio's extraordinary musical journey. Serendipitously, he landed a pivotal spot on the pirate radio station Phase One, all thanks to a connection through a close friend. This opportunity allowed Fabio to showcase his raw talent and hone his early skills. As destiny continued to guide him, Fabio formed a powerful partnership with Grooverider, and together, they soared to fame, headlining numerous major outdoor raves and orbital M25 parties during the late '80s acid house boom. The duo's magnetic presence and innovative sound captivated audiences, setting them apart as trailblazers in the electronic music scene.

As club culture blossomed, Fabio and Grooverider became the distinguished residents at the iconic club night RAGE, hosted at Heaven in the heart of London. Their influence was immense, as they were credited with moulding the early Jungle sound and orchestrating the world's first-ever weekly Jungle night. Fabio's unwavering passion and dedication to music have not only left an indelible mark on the industry but have also inspired countless aspiring artists. His boundless creativity and willingness to push the boundaries continue to shape the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music, solidifying his status as a true pioneer and a living legend.

After the Jungle scene declined and underwent a distinct shift in sound and style, Fabio took the initiative to establish London's first dedicated soulful deep Drum and Bass night, known as Speed. Week after week, Fabio shared the decks with LTJ Bukem, and their skillful sets eventually garnered immense popularity, drawing in not only junglists but also celebrities, club kids, record label A&R representatives, and the who's who of the West End at that time. When the curtain fell on Speed Fabio's legacy continued to flourish with the inception of his legendary Swerve weekly residency at The Velvet Rooms, which later relocated to the iconic club, The End. The influence of Swerve was profound, serving as a catalyst for the creation of influential labels like Hospital Records, Tony Coleman (also known as London Elektricity) became a regular attendee, further contributing to the scene's growth and innovation.

The term 'Liquid', was born out of Fabio's deep admiration and support for his protégé, the talented Northern Irish producer and DJ, Dominick Martin, famously known as Calibre. This inspiration led to the creation of his acclaimed 14-year radio show on BBC Radio 1, 'The Liquid Funk Show', which drew from Calibre's masterful productions that Fabio likened to "liquid gold" for the ears. Through this show, Fabio played a crucial role in breaking numerous iconic records, and artists such as Chase & Status, High Contrast, and many many more.

Now, 'Generation Liquid' takes the baton from the legacy of Speed, Swerve, and 'The Liquid Funk show', capturing the essence of the era and the soulful, deeper music that Fabio has championed throughout his illustrious career. This meticulously curated collection celebrates records that embody the spirit of soulful D&B, making it a must-have for anyone who has followed Fabio's musical journey since the vibrant days of the 1990s up until now.

The compilation is a treasure trove, featuring contemporary classics, late-night rollers, iconic remixes, and timeless Fabio originals. The roster of producers on 'Generation Liquid' is stellar, boasting names like Calibre, Alix Perez, High Contrast, MJ Cole, Chase & Status, and many others. It is an essential snapshot of soulful D&B at its peak, handpicked and presented by the genre’s Godfather.

Rest assured, all music is fully licensed and cleared, accompanied by stunning archival artwork courtesy of Karma London.

Fabio Presents - Generation Liquid

Artist Fabio, Various Artists
Title Generation Liquid (Volume 2)
Label Above Board Projects
Cat No GENLIQ002
Format 2 x 12"
Price £16.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 27/10/2023
Assets Download
All Genres [Bass] [Drum & Bass] [Liquid Drum & Bass]

Track Listing

A1. Alix Perez - Crooklyn

A2. DJ Marky ft. XRS - Rotation

B1. High Contrast - Twilights Last Gleaming

B2. Calibre - Drowning In You

C1. Calyx and Tee Bee - Elevate This Sound

C2. Refusal - Zero T (Calibre Remix)

D1. Calibre - Second Sun

D2. dBridge & Artificial Intelligence - Odessa

Description

Introducing the eagerly awaited second instalment of Fabio's meticulously curated collection of liquid Drum & Bass classics - 'Generation Liquid.'

Fabio, a true legend in the music industry for over three decades, kickstarted his illustrious career as a Pirate Radio DJ in the mid-80s. Throughout the years, he masterfully evolved his style across various musical genres, ranging from Dub and Hip Hop to House, until he ultimately solidified his position as one of the pioneering forces behind Jungle and Drum and Bass. Fate played a remarkable role in Fabio's extraordinary musical journey. Serendipitously, he landed a pivotal spot on the pirate radio station Phase One, all thanks to a connection through a close friend. This opportunity allowed Fabio to showcase his raw talent and hone his early skills. As destiny continued to guide him, Fabio formed a powerful partnership with Grooverider, and together, they soared to fame, headlining numerous major outdoor raves and orbital M25 parties during the late '80s acid house boom. The duo's magnetic presence and innovative sound captivated audiences, setting them apart as trailblazers in the electronic music scene.

As club culture blossomed, Fabio and Grooverider became the distinguished residents at the iconic club night RAGE, hosted at Heaven in the heart of London. Their influence was immense, as they were credited with moulding the early Jungle sound and orchestrating the world's first-ever weekly Jungle night. Fabio's unwavering passion and dedication to music have not only left an indelible mark on the industry but have also inspired countless aspiring artists. His boundless creativity and willingness to push the boundaries continue to shape the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music, solidifying his status as a true pioneer and a living legend.

After the Jungle scene declined and underwent a distinct shift in sound and style, Fabio took the initiative to establish London's first dedicated soulful deep Drum and Bass night, known as Speed. Week after week, Fabio shared the decks with LTJ Bukem, and their skilful sets eventually garnered immense popularity, drawing in not only junglists but also celebrities, club kids, record label A&R representatives, and the who's who of the West End at that time. When the curtain fell on Speed Fabio's legacy continued to flourish with the inception of his legendary Swerve weekly residency at The Velvet Rooms, which later relocated to the iconic club, The End. The influence of Swerve was profound, serving as a catalyst for the creation of influential labels like Hospital Records, Tony Coleman (also known as London Elektricity) became a regular attendee, further contributing to the scene's growth and innovation.

The term 'Liquid', was born out of Fabio's deep admiration and support for his protégé, the talented Northern Irish producer and DJ, Dominick Martin, famously known as Calibre. This inspiration led to the creation of his acclaimed 14-year radio show on BBC Radio 1, 'The Liquid Funk Show', which drew from Calibre's masterful productions that Fabio likened to "liquid gold" for the ears. Through this show, Fabio played a crucial role in breaking numerous iconic records, and artists such as Chase & Status, High Contrast, and many many more.

Now, 'Generation Liquid' takes the baton from the legacy of Speed, Swerve, and 'The Liquid Funk show', capturing the essence of the era and the soulful, deeper music that Fabio has championed throughout his illustrious career. This meticulously curated collection celebrates records that embody the spirit of soulful D&B, making it a must-have for anyone who has followed Fabio's musical journey since the vibrant days of the 1990s up until now.

The second volume of this immersive exploration into the soulful realm of Drum & Bass is just as indispensable as its predecessor. It boasts a curated collection of rarities, timeless classics, and straight-up anthems from the vibrant liquid D&B scene. Esteemed artists such as DJ Marky, Calibre, Calyx & TeeBee, and dBridge all contribute to what is undeniably becoming a seminal anthology of the subgenre. The track selection and seamless programming are expertly guided by none other than Fabio himself, providing listeners with a nostalgic glimpse into the electrifying atmosphere of being right on the dance-floor at iconic events Speed and Swerve.

Happy Land (A Compendium Of Electronic Music From The British Isles 1992-1996)

Artist Various Artists
Title Happy Land (A Compendium Of Electronic Music From The British Isles 1992-1996 Volume 1)
Label Above Board Projects
Cat No HLLP1
Format 2 x 12"
Price £16.50
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 14/07/2023
Assets Download
All Genres [Ambient] [Electro] [Electronica] [House] [Techno]

Track Listing

A1. Cabaret Voltaire - Soul Vine (70 Billion People)

A2. Ultramarine - Happy Land (ft. Robert Wyatt)

B. Thunderhead The Word By Eden - True Romance

C1. Xeper - Carceres Ex Novum

C2. Herbert - Housewife

D1. Liquid Son - Big Decision

D2. Syzgzy - Meditation

Description

Future Jazzers, notorious experimentalists and outfield eccentrics stumble onto the dancefloor. In the 90s. In the UK.

From an electronic music perspective, the period 1992 to 1996 in the UK that this compilation celebrates, was one of dizzying sonic diversification.

It was also a particularly turbulent time in the UK, not only politically and economically, but also culturally too. Economic catastrophe in ‘92 was followed by widespread poverty, a cost of living crisis and countless political scandals. Meanwhile, John Major’s Tory government pandered to its political base via unpleasant, authoritarian legislation that seemingly sought to crush rave culture, alternative lifestyles, and traveller communities. The UK was not so much a ‘Happy Land’ – to quote the name of this compilation – as an angry and divided one. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it?

Throughout, the music created by producers based across these Isles remained uniquely British, speeding up a process begun in the late 1980s through the emergence of street soul, bleep & bass and breakbeat hardcore – musical styles whose roots in multicultural inner-city communities made them distinctly different from the Black American sounds that had inspired their creators. It was here, rather than in the indie pubs of Camden, that real musical revolutions were taking place.

This deep diving selection brings together some truly adventurous and original electronic music from this period, much of it very hard to find. Major label outings connect with white label oddities with ease. Perhaps it could even be argued that many of these unearthed gems fit more easily into DJ sets in 2023 than they ever did at the time. The off-kilter swing of Richard D James’ obscure and highly sought after Strider B outing, ‘Bradley’s Robot’ is joined by further rare cuts from Cabaret Voltaire and the Black Dog, and artists as diverse as Ultramarine, Herbert, Fretless AZM, and Radioactive Lamb, amongst others.

This collection has been lovingly selected, compiled and mastered for maximum sonic playback. This very special release boasts sublime pastoral themed artwork, as well as informative and passionate liner notes by celebrated music scribe Matt Anniss (‘Join The Future’).

Happy Land (A Compendium Of Electronic Music From The British Isles 1992-1996)

Artist Various Artists
Title Happy Land (A Compendium Of Electronic Music From The British Isles 1992-1996 Volume 2)
Label Above Board Projects
Cat No HLLP2
Format 2 x 12"
Price £16.50
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 14/04/2023
Assets Download
All Genres [Ambient] [Electro] [Electronica] [House] [Techno]

Track Listing

A1. Strider. B. - Linmiri ≠ Bradley Stryder

A2. Radioactive Lamb - Bellevedere

B1. Max - Pull Thy Boots

B2. Fretless Azm - Dreamland

C1. Sandoz - Armed Response

C2. The Black Dog - Cost II

D1. Zone Smut - Sub Dub Rub (Holyfield Vs. Tyson Remix Totally Killed By Sub Dub)

D2. Slow Rotor - Space Disco (Dub Edit)

Description

Future Jazzers, notorious experimentalists and outfield eccentrics stumble onto the dancefloor. In the 90s. In the UK.

From an electronic music perspective, the period 1992 to 1996 in the UK that this compilation celebrates, was one of dizzying sonic diversification.

It was also a particularly turbulent time in the UK, not only politically and economically, but also culturally too. Economic catastrophe in ‘92 was followed by widespread poverty, a cost of living crisis and countless political scandals. Meanwhile, John Major’s Tory government pandered to its political base via unpleasant, authoritarian legislation that seemingly sought to crush rave culture, alternative lifestyles, and traveller communities. The UK was not so much a ‘Happy Land’ – to quote the name of this compilation – as an angry and divided one. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it?

Throughout, the music created by producers based across these Isles remained uniquely British, speeding up a process begun in the late 1980s through the emergence of street soul, bleep & bass and breakbeat hardcore – musical styles whose roots in multicultural inner-city communities made them distinctly different from the Black American sounds that had inspired their creators. It was here, rather than in the indie pubs of Camden, that real musical revolutions were taking place.

This deep diving selection brings together some truly adventurous and original electronic music from this period, much of it very hard to find. Major label outings connect with white label oddities with ease. Perhaps it could even be argued that many of these unearthed gems fit more easily into DJ sets in 2023 than they ever did at the time. The off-kilter swing of Richard D James’ obscure and highly sought after Strider B outing, ‘Bradley’s Robot’ is joined by further rare cuts from Cabaret Voltaire and the Black Dog, and artists as diverse as Ultramarine, Herbert, Fretless AZM, and Radioactive Lamb, amongst others.

This collection has been lovingly selected, compiled and mastered for maximum sonic playback. This very special release boasts sublime pastoral themed artwork, as well as informative and passionate liner notes by celebrated music scribe Matt Anniss (‘Join The Future’).

Who Say Reload (Original 90's Jungle and Drum & Bass)

Artist Various Artists
Title Who Say Reload Volume One (Original 90s Jungle and Drum & Bass)
Label Velocity Press
Cat No VELOCITY001
Format 2 x 12"
Price £16.50
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 28/04/2023
Assets Download
All Genres [Drum & Bass] [Jungle]

Track Listing

A1. DJ Tamsin & The Monk - A Better Place (DJ Trace Remix)

A2. Nookie - Shining In Da Darkness

B1. Origin Unknown - Valley of The Shadows (Long Dark Mix)

B2. Chimeira - Deeper Life

C1. DJ Nut Nut - Special Dedication

C2. Omni Trio - Renegade Snares (Foul Play Remix)

D1. Slipmatt - Breaking Free (DJ SS Rollers Remix)

D2. Rude Bwoy Monty - Steppas Anthem

Description

In 2021 Velocity Press published Who Say Reload: The Stories Behind the Classic Drum & Bass Records of the 90s, an oral history of the records that defined jungle/drum & bass straight from the original sources. The deluxe coffee table book has since sold thousands of copies and prompted many to comment that it should have an accompanying soundtrack.

Now author Paul Terzulli has compiled a Who Say Reload album. However, where the book focused solely on classics and anthems, the compilation takes a different route and offers up a selection of top-quality tunes from some of the scene’s most respected artists and labels.

Like the book, the album covers the genre’s nineties golden era, and the many styles of D&B are represented. Pioneering producers and crowd-pleasing favourites sit alongside a few sought-after obscurities by the unsung heroes of the scene. Most importantly, there are some absolute bangers!

The 16 tracks are spread over two volumes of 2 x 12"s, and there is also a 13-track digital version, taking you on a journey through music forged from raw breakbeats and basslines that soundtracked a culture of all-night raves, specialist record shops and pirate radio stations.

Jungle/drum & bass is approaching its 30th anniversary. Its sonic and cultural legacy is still being felt today. There’s still plenty of old music that might be “new” to some, and these tunes still pack as much of a punch as they did back in the day. That unique energy generated by a combination of breakbeats, bass and creativity never gets old.

Produced in conjunction with Above Board distribution. All tracks mastered from original sources and fully licensed. Mastering by Beau Thomas @ Ten Eight Seven Mastering. Liner notes from Who Say Reload author Paul Terzulli. Photography by Eddie Otchere. Artwork and design by Protean Productions.

Who Say Reload (Original 90's Jungle and Drum & Bass)

Artist Various Artists
Title Who Say Reload Volume Two (Original 90s Jungle and Drum & Bass)
Label Velocity Press
Cat No VELOCITY002
Format 2 x 12"
Price £16.50
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 30/06/2023
Assets Download
All Genres [Drum & Bass] [Jungle]

Track Listing

A1. Omni Trio - Soul Promenade (Nookie Remix)

A2. Prisoners Of Technology - Trick Of Technology

B1. Dope Skillz - 6 Million Ways

B2. Amazon II - King Of The Beats

C1. Wax Doctor - Heat

C2. Roni Size / Reprazent - Watching Windows (DJ Die Gnarly Instrumental Mix)

D1. Jonny L - Wish U Had Something

D2. Optical - Bounce

Description

In 2021 Velocity Press published Who Say Reload: The Stories Behind the Classic Drum & Bass Records of the 90s, an oral history of the records that defined jungle/drum & bass straight from the original sources. The deluxe coffee table book has since sold thousands of copies and prompted many to comment that it should have an accompanying soundtrack.

Now author Paul Terzulli has compiled a Who Say Reload album. However, where the book focused solely on classics and anthems, the compilation takes a different route and offers up a selection of top-quality tunes from some of the scene’s most respected artists and labels.

Like the book, the album covers the genre’s nineties golden era, and the many styles of D&B are represented. Pioneering producers and crowd-pleasing favourites sit alongside a few sought-after obscurities by the unsung heroes of the scene. Most importantly, there are some absolute bangers!

The 16 tracks are spread over two volumes of 2 x 12"s, and there is also a 13-track digital version, taking you on a journey through music forged from raw breakbeats and basslines that soundtracked a culture of all-night raves, specialist record shops and pirate radio stations.

Jungle/drum & bass is approaching its 30th anniversary. Its sonic and cultural legacy is still being felt today. There’s still plenty of old music that might be “new” to some, and these tunes still pack as much of a punch as they did back in the day. That unique energy generated by a combination of breakbeats, bass and creativity never gets old.

Produced in conjunction with Above Board distribution. All tracks mastered from original sources and fully licensed. Mastering by Beau Thomas @ Ten Eight Seven Mastering. Liner notes from Who Say Reload author Paul Terzulli. Photography by Eddie Otchere. Artwork and design by Protean Productions.