ORDERS FOR THIS WEEK

RELEASE DATE: 2ND FEBRUARY 2024

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

Download a CSV order sheet of all the releases in this email ➠

ABOVE BOARD PROJECTS

Optimo, Various Artists

Optimo 25 (Part 1)

Above Board Projects

OPTIMO2501

2 x 12"

£16.99

Optimo, Various Artists

Optimo 25 (Part 2)

Above Board Projects

OPTIMO2502

2 x 12"

£16.99


HOUSE

Various Artists

Crosstown Rebels present SPIRITS VI

Crosstown Rebels

CRMLP052

2 x 12"

£13.99

Aroop Roy

Re Bulele EP (Incl. FNX Omar Remix)

Freerange Records

FR294

12"

£7.99

Ada Kaleh

Unravelling ft. Eric Leeds

R&S

RS2306

12"

£7.99

Zone+

A Star

WTR by MDLBEAST Records

WTR004V

12"

£8.99

Timmy Regisford

Some For This And That

Nervous Records

NER26245

2 x 12"

£13.99

YokoO

You

SATYA

SATYA013

12"

£8.99


ELECTRO / TECHNO

Various Artists

Needs Vol. 1

Unlimited Happiness Records

UH003

12"

£7.99


JUNGLE / DNB / BREAKS

Krust

Irrational Numbers Volume 4

Wonder Palace Music

KRUST004

2 x 12"

£16.99

Automation

The Remixes

Triple Helix Records

TXXX1

12"

£7.99


ESP INSTITUTE

Bartellow

Noosphere

ESP Institute

ESP104

2 x 12"

£17.49


LAST COPIES

Doxa Sinistra

The Other Stranger / Strange

Midnight Drive

DRIVE009

7"

£6.99


REPRESSES

CODE 6 (JOEY BELTRAM)

UNTITLED EP

Midnight Drive

DRIVE005

12"

£6.49

Kerri Chandler

The Mood

Nervous Records

NE20136

12"

£7.49


ICYMI

Hiver

Dream Universe

Gudu Records

GUDU019

12"

£8.99

Amazingblaze

Believe EP

KNTXT

KNTXT023

12"

£8.99

Various Artists

EP16

Defected

DFTD655

12"

£7.99

Earth Boys

In The Sun

Public Release

PR28

12"

£7.99

Various Artists

EXIT100.2

Exit Records

EXIT1002

LP

£13.49

Elements Of Life Featuring Josh Milan

Let Us Shine

Vega Records

VR213

12"

£8.99

Tony Touch

Apaga La Luz (Remixes)

Vega Records

VR219

2 x 12"

£13.99

Jackmaster

Party Going On EP

Slacker 85

SLACKER004

12"

£7.99

Hilit Kolet

Hot Mess (Incl. Mike Dunn Remix)

Rekids

REKIDS234

12"

£7.49




Releases in detail:

ABOVE BOARD PROJECTS

Artist Optimo, Various Artists
Title Optimo 25 (Part 1)
Label Above Board Projects
Cat No OPTIMO2501
Format 2 x 12"
Price £16.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 16/02/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Ambient] [Bleep] [Dub] [Electronica] [Gwo Ka] [Hi-NRG] [House] [Optimo] [Post-Punk] [Psychedelic Rock] [Reggae] [UK Garage]

Track Listing

A1. Brainticket - Places Of Light

A2. T.J. Lawrence - Fireplay

A3. Robert Rental - Double Heart

B1. African Head Charge - No, Don't Follow Fashion

B2. Keith Hudson - Nuh Skin Up Dub

C1. Smokin' Cheeba - When I Was A Youth

C2. The Wad - 15 inches

D1. Idjut Boys & Laj - Foolin' (Beatin on Dave)

D2. JBB Et Soprann - Tibi Lap

Description

Optimo (Espacio) started life as a weekly club night. It was born at The Sub Club in Glasgow on a wet, windy, wintry November Sunday night in 1997. Run by JD Twitch and partner in crime Jonnie Wilkes. Optimo was a reaction against what felt like an increasingly conservative musical soundtrack in clubs here at that time. Clubland felt as if it had become very bland and a bit too serious; it was the era of the dawn of the Superstar DJ. Clubs often felt like bastions of male energy. It seemed dance music and culture was going somewhere far, far away from where it was meant to be. The notion of fun had got lost.

It was no longer the world they had devoted ten years of their lives to already, and lots of their friends felt the same. When the opportunity came up to do a Sunday night at The Sub Club it felt like the perfect opportunity to rip it all up and start again. So they did. There was nothing in the city (or possibly anywhere) like it. As the club believed wholeheartedly in what they were doing, there was no pressure from The Sub Club to fill the club. So, they embraced the freedom. Groups of people who had never been in the same room at the same time before came together. A community of kindred spirits started to emerge.

Word spread, slowly. Lots of people checked it out. Many loved it, some hated it. The core of the Optimo idea was to embrace music they loved that might work on the dancefloor from whatever era or genre they thought felt right. It might not seem very radical now but at that time it was revolutionary.

After about a year and a half, the club went from having 100 people attending most nights to suddenly one week having 500 people turn up. It was very weird. It was as if a collective light bulb went off in people’s heads in Glasgow. From that week on, until the very last weekly Sunday night at the Sub Club, in 2010, over a decade later, it was packed.

There were 550 Sunday Optimo nights. A LOT of music was played. So, what was the music? People often find it hard to pin down exactly what Optimo is. This has been a positive but also a negative as we live in a world where people want easily defined “brand identities”. The simplest definition of the music played is “music for dancing”, which of course is a very broad definition. Even better than trying to define it in words, we have these 2 volumes of music that give a hint of what that might be.

This is not a “Best of Optimo” or a “Greatest Hits of Optimo” compilation. For people who come to, or used to come to the nights there are of course “Greatest Hits”. But, over such a long timespan they are “hits” belonging to a certain moment in time and space. Someone who came to Optimo in 1997 would have a completely different notion of the big tracks at the club to someone coming in 2003, or 2010, or today. This compilation is just a snap shot missing several genres that might make up the DNA of Optimo. There is though a broad sweep through lots of music Optimo loves, that they believe is amazing. Music that they know will rock a dancefloor, that they have played between 1997 and 2023. Of course Optimo nights were not all about rocking the dancefloor. The first hour was always a time for them to play music they loved that often was far removed from the dance. Side 1, Volume 1 of this compilation is the kind of music one might hear at the very start of an Optimo night.

Optimo have always loved a good slogan. The most long lived, and fitting Optimo slogan is "We Love Your Ears", which is in essence what it is all about to them.

ABOVE BOARD PROJECTS

Artist Optimo, Various Artists
Title Optimo 25 (Part 2)
Label Above Board Projects
Cat No OPTIMO2502
Format 2 x 12"
Price £16.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 16/02/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Ambient] [Bleep] [Dub] [Electronica] [Gwo Ka] [Hi-NRG] [House] [Optimo] [Post-Punk] [Psychedelic Rock] [Reggae] [UK Garage]

Track Listing

A1. Chris & Cosey - Take Control

A2. Isolators - Concentrate On Us

B1. Mike Dunn - Life Goes On

B2. KC Flight - Voices (Original Dub Mix)

C1. Faze Action - Good Lovin' (Special Disco Mix)

C2. Hannah Holland - Ekotypic

D1. Divine - Shake It Up

D2. XS-5 - I Need More (Extended Dance Version)

D3. Liquid Liquid - Optimo

Description

Optimo (Espacio) started life as a weekly club night. It was born at The Sub Club in Glasgow on a wet, windy, wintry November Sunday night in 1997. Run by JD Twitch and partner in crime Jonnie Wilkes. Optimo was a reaction against what felt like an increasingly conservative musical soundtrack in clubs here at that time. Clubland felt as if it had become very bland and a bit too serious; it was the era of the dawn of the Superstar DJ. Clubs often felt like bastions of male energy. It seemed dance music and culture was going somewhere far, far away from where it was meant to be. The notion of fun had got lost.

It was no longer the world they had devoted ten years of their lives to already, and lots of their friends felt the same. When the opportunity came up to do a Sunday night at The Sub Club it felt like the perfect opportunity to rip it all up and start again. So they did. There was nothing in the city (or possibly anywhere) like it. As the club believed wholeheartedly in what they were doing, there was no pressure from The Sub Club to fill the club. So, they embraced the freedom. Groups of people who had never been in the same room at the same time before came together. A community of kindred spirits started to emerge.

Word spread, slowly. Lots of people checked it out. Many loved it, some hated it. The core of the Optimo idea was to embrace music they loved that might work on the dancefloor from whatever era or genre they thought felt right. It might not seem very radical now but at that time it was revolutionary.

After about a year and a half, the club went from having 100 people attending most nights to suddenly one week having 500 people turn up. It was very weird. It was as if a collective light bulb went off in people’s heads in Glasgow. From that week on, until the very last weekly Sunday night at the Sub Club, in 2010, over a decade later, it was packed.

There were 550 Sunday Optimo nights. A LOT of music was played. So, what was the music? People often find it hard to pin down exactly what Optimo is. This has been a positive but also a negative as we live in a world where people want easily defined “brand identities”. The simplest definition of the music played is “music for dancing”, which of course is a very broad definition. Even better than trying to define it in words, we have these 2 volumes of music that give a hint of what that might be.

This is not a “Best of Optimo” or a “Greatest Hits of Optimo” compilation. For people who come to, or used to come to the nights there are of course “Greatest Hits”. But, over such a long timespan they are “hits” belonging to a certain moment in time and space. Someone who came to Optimo in 1997 would have a completely different notion of the big tracks at the club to someone coming in 2003, or 2010, or today. This compilation is just a snap shot missing several genres that might make up the DNA of Optimo. There is though a broad sweep through lots of music Optimo loves, that they believe is amazing. Music that they know will rock a dancefloor, that they have played between 1997 and 2023. Of course Optimo nights were not all about rocking the dancefloor. The first hour was always a time for them to play music they loved that often was far removed from the dance. Side 1, Volume 1 of this compilation is the kind of music one might hear at the very start of an Optimo night.

Optimo have always loved a good slogan. The most long lived, and fitting Optimo slogan is "We Love Your Ears", which is in essence what it is all about to them.

HOUSE

Artist Various Artists
Title Crosstown Rebels present SPIRITS VI
Label Crosstown Rebels
Cat No CRMLP052
Format 2 x 12"
Price £13.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 02/02/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Deep House] [House] [Tech House]

Track Listing

A1. Cameron Jack - The Vision

A2. Chris Bowl - Silent Plain

B1. Lauren Lane - Fair Game

B2. Marc Lenz - People Are People

C1. Cristina Lazic & Leia Contois - So Deep

C2. Iñigo Vontier - That Trippy Sound

D1. AJ Christou - Back & Forth

D2. TMPLE - The Girl In The Room

Description

Damian Lazarus presents the sixth volume of his Crosstown Rebels SPIRITS compilation series, boasting an impressive lineup of Lauren Lane, Cristina Lazic, AJ Christou, TMPLE and more.

Since its debut in 2017, Damian Lazarus’ annual ‘SPIRITS’ series on Crosstown Rebels has been a beacon for breakthrough artists, setting the label’s agenda for the year ahead. The sixth instalment in February is another meticulously curated lineup with ‘SPIRITS VI’ featuring a blend of new and recognisable talents, including Lauren Lane, Cristina Lazic, Iñigo Vontier, AJ Christou and many more.

London-based talent Cameron Jack kicks off what looks set to be a breakout year with ‘The Vision’, a bubbly and tropical cut with cosmic synths and loose, jumbled rhythms. Chris Bowl then brings his emotional style to the deep, rolling beats and fresh melodies of ‘Silent Plain’, while NY-born, LA-based house tastemaker Lauren Lane layers in smoky pads and tender whispers to her sublime deep house cut, ‘Fair Game.’ Next, German talent and Degree Records head Marc Lenz brings darker vibes to his track ‘People Are People’, while Rebellion artist Cristina Lazic and previous Lazarus collaborator Leia Contois combine for the alluring vocal soul and gritty minimal drums of ‘So Deep’.

Mexican Iñigo Vontier is a pioneer in his homeland after crafting a global reputation, and his twisted synths, shiny
textures and steely drums on ‘That Trippy Sound’ prove why as they work you into a trance. Next is influential Manchester-based DJ/producer AJ Christou, who has released on the likes of Hot Creations and Cuttin’ Headz. His track ‘Back & Forth’ brings an infectious groove with plenty of flair and catchy drum funk, before TMPLE shuts things down with the deft, airy grooves and floating bass of ‘The Girl In The Room’, complete with its tender male vocals.

At the forefront of electronic innovation, Crosstown Rebels stands as a pivotal platform and record label, reflecting the genre’s diversity and housing an impressive roster that includes renowned artists and household names like Art Department, Maceo Plex, and Jamie Jones. With sub-labels Rebellion and Secret Teachings in tow, the imprint consistently and continuously expands its musical canvas, creating an immersive landscape for leading and emerging talents to thrive.

The elegant ‘Mundo’ channels the machine soul of early Detroit techno, before ‘Mangabeira Manifesto’ featuring Dudu Bongo layers up wonky drums and bass with curling, soft acid sounds and a playful vocal line. ‘Triple Frontier’ picks up the pace and heads out on a high-speed cosmic house journey, all before ‘Overture’, another far-sighted astral trip with starry melodies and rich, rubbery bass, closes the package in fine style.

An expressive and adventurous yet coherent long player with a range of moods, feelings and grooves taking you to all corners of the house world, ‘Vista’ showcases Dabo’s most in-depth project to date and an album which provides the perfect platform for him to display his rich sonic universe.

HOUSE

Artist Aroop Roy
Title Re Bulele EP (Incl. FNX Omar Remix)
Label Freerange Records
Cat No FR294
Format 12"
Price £7.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 02/02/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Afro House] [Deep House] [House]

Track Listing

A1. Mama Mwana

A2. Re Bulele ft. Fox Meropa (FNX Omar Remix)

B. Re Bulele ft. Fox Meropa

Description

Aroop Roy’s star is deservedly in the ascendancy! As one of London’s most exciting selectors, he’s managed to position himself in the sweet spot of being the DJ’s DJ and causing wild scenes wherever he plays, with headline grabbing sets at Defected Croatia, We Out Here, Gilles Peterson’s Worldwide and many more.

As a producer, musician and label owner, he continues to excel, armed with a vast knowledge of outernational sounds, from rare African disco, jazz, funk, to house, UKG and seemingly everything in-between. His open-minded approach has led to brilliant releases and remixes for labels as diverse as Soundway, Heavenly Sweetness, Permanent Vacation, Club Bad, Delusions of Grandeur, Atjazz Recordings and his own Vive La Musique imprint.

Having played a few gigs together, it was only a matter of time before Jimpster convinced Aroop to get an EP together for Freerange and the resulting Re Bulele EP couldn’t be any more satisfying!

Leading the charge, 'Mama Mwana' captivates with entrancing thumb piano loops and a traditional African vocal all propped up by a subtle yet chunky house beat to lock the dancers in.

'Re Bulele' features the hypnotic vocals of Botswana native Fox Meropa. Aroop masterfully combines a deep, techy Afro House groove with glassy synth pads to form a stripped back instrumental with the vocals front and centre. Seemingly disparate elements shine on this wonderful alternative to the deluge of maximal Afro House tracks being released these days.

Moroccan producer FNX Omar delivers the goods with a sublime remix of Re Bulele. Creating tension with layers of looping vocals along with a rolling, percussive groove. Like the original, this remix transcends genres and will create special moments on the dancefloor, whether it be in a dark, sweaty basement or daytime festival in the sunshine.

HOUSE

Artist Ada Kaleh
Title Unravelling ft. Eric Leeds
Label R&S
Cat No RS2306
Format 12"
Price £7.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 02/02/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Afro House] [House] [Jazz] [Minimal]

Track Listing

A. Unravelling ft. Eric Leeds

B. Unravelling

Description

Ada Kaleh, the Romanian composer and DJ, follows up on his recent releases for R&S Records and Apollo with a brand new single, ‘Unravelling’.

Featuring the vocals of Fela Kuti at his most potent, ‘Unravelling’ also includes a featured performance from Eric Leeds, the American saxophone player most noted for his work with Prince, both in the studio and as part of the Purple One’s touring band.

Ada Kaleh constructs a hypnotising and minimalistic rhythm, reminiscent of Tony Allen's drumming style, speckled with dubbed out complexions and kaleidoscopic sonics that provide the perfect bed for Fela Kuti’s distinguished vocal delivery and conscientious lyric. The illustrious jazz musician Eric Leeds lends his prowess to the main mix here, as his smoky saxophone tones glide across ‘Unravelling’ with pure professional class!

HOUSE

Artist Zone+
Title A Star
Label WTR by MDLBEAST Records
Cat No WTR004V
Format 12"
Price £8.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 02/02/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Deep House] [House] [Melodic House]

Track Listing

A1. A Star

A2. Forever

B1. Petra

Description

An uplifting, feel-good record, that takes you on a journey deep into the groove. This EP from “Zone+”, DJ/Producer from Bahrain with an extensive release history with the likes of “Anjunadeep” and “All Day I Dream”, now returnes to WTR with a special vinyl release of previously digitally released “A Star” and “Forever” along with a vinyl-only release of “Petra”.

HOUSE

Artist Timmy Regisford
Title Some For This And That
Label Nervous Records
Cat No NER26245
Format 2 x 12"
Price £13.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 02/02/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [House] [Soulful House]

Track Listing

A1. If You Ever Need To Cry

A2. Heaven 10 Zillion

B1. Go Outside In The Rain

B2. Stay With Me Tonight

C1. Africa

C2. Khannyisa

D1. I Love

D2. Easy Ride

Description

Timmy Regisford’s enduring career is a testament to his talent and ability to always stay ahead of the House Music curve. For his new 2X12” album “Some For This and That” on Nervous Records he has combined afro house vibes with classic R&B vocals and signature Shelter chords and synths to create a musical mosaic unlike anything else currently on the market. “If You Ever Need to Cry” and “Go Outside In The Rain” are the stand-out songs on the album that feature stellar vocal performances, while “Heaven 10 Zillion” and “I Love” will transport the listener straight back to NYC in the 90’s to the best Shelter party they could imagine. “Africa” and “Khannyisa” exhibit the next level of percussion and authentic Afro House vocal elements that will set the direction for this very popular sub genre for years to come.

HOUSE

Artist YokoO
Title You
Label SATYA
Cat No SATYA013
Format 12"
Price £8.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 09/02/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Deep House] [House]

Track Listing

A1. When I Wake Next To You

A2. Promise I'll Slap Ya

B1. I Want More Of You

B2. I Want More Of You (Superlounge Remix)

Description

Fresh off the press, YokoO's latest release "You" sets the perfect mood for winter nights and summer days.

With three solid deep groovers, "whether it's the afternoon, evening, early night, or early morning the day after, there should be something for everyone to dig into on this record," says YokoO, speaking about the diverse appeal of the EP.

Adding to the allure of the package is the liquid smooth remix by the talented Düsseldorf duo Superlounge. Their unique touch infuses the release with an extra layer of sophistication, making it an essential addition to any Satya music lover's collection.

ELECTRO / TECHNO

Artist Various Artists
Title Needs Vol. 1
Label Unlimited Happiness Records
Cat No UH003
Format 12"
Price £7.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 14/06/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Electro] [Techno]

Track Listing

A1. Lamont Stigler - Humanoid

A2. Anci - Koo

B1. Redray - Reprogram

B2. Mills Boogie - Donut

Description

Unlimted Happiness Records is presenting their first Various Artist series “Needs Vol.1”. Inspired by the eager to discover, the need for new electronics day after day. A Fast pasted A-side by Lamont Stigler and Anci, steady and smooth on the B-side with Redray and Mills Boogie. The diamond city delivers.

JUNGLE / DNB / BREAKS

Artist Krust
Title Irrational Numbers Volume 4
Label Wonder Palace Music
Cat No KRUST004
Format 2 x 12"
Price £16.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 09/02/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Drum & Bass] [Jungle]

Track Listing

A1. Angles

A2. Asian Love Dance (Remix)

B1. Jazz Note II

B2. Burning (Alt. Mix)

C. 21st Century

D1. Not Necessarily A Man

D2. Coded Language ft. Saul Williams

Description

Volume 4 of Krust's career spanning collection is here, boasting some serious deep dives into his archives alongside some serious classics that every DJ and listener should own! Once again, this collection shows the breadth of Krust's anachronistic style and original flavour. Often imitated, but never bettered, this latest instalment once again shows it should be done. Truly original and engaging music from the streets of Bristol.

'Irrational Numbers' is a meticulously curated collection of five parts, available on both vinyl and digital formats. The compilation is a treasure trove of hand-picked records and archival gems from Krust's extensive discography, thoughtfully remastered and presented anew for both devoted fans and newcomers.

'Irrational Numbers' features a dizzying array of self-released 12" cuts, exclusive unreleased VIPs and dub-plates, alongside epic major label widescreen classics. It's an unmissable journey through the sonic output of one of the UK's most distinctive and forward-looking producers.

Volume 4 offers up the dubplate only mix of 'Asian Love Dance' for example, the anthemic 'Jazz Note II' for the heads and futuristic roller '21st Century' as well the groundbreaking 'Coded Language' featuring the stellar vocal talents of NYC poet and MC Saul Williams.

For longtime Krust enthusiasts, this project serves as a fond reminder of the boundless creativity and originality that flourished during the early 1990s and beyond. For those new to his work, it presents an enthralling introduction to innovative electronic music that has comfortably set the tone for generations to come. Get ready to experience the evolution of sound and immerse yourself in the visionary artistry of Krust.

JUNGLE / DNB / BREAKS

Artist Automation
Title The Remixes
Label Triple Helix Records
Cat No TXXX1
Format 12"
Price £7.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 02/02/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Breakbeat] [Hardcore] [Techno]

Track Listing

A1. Espionage

A2. Doomsday

B1. Pacemaker

B2. Electricity

Description

Originally released in 1991 via their own Triple Helix Records, Automation brings us 'The Remixes' EP, featuring 4 tracks that have stood the test of time, bridging the gap between Hardcore, Breakbeat, and Techno. Reissued via MPS!

ESP INSTITUTE

Artist Bartellow
Title Noosphere
Label ESP Institute
Cat No ESP104
Format 2 x 12"
Price £17.49
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 02/02/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Classical] [Modern Classical]

Track Listing

A1. Grana

A2. Vorsichtig - Mutiger - Verloren

A3. The Idea Of A Horizon

A4. View From My Parents House

B1. Folie

B2. X-Pulse

B3. Ungeheuer Ist Vieles

B4. Seance

B5. Nexus II On The Beach

B6. Langsame Bewegung

B7. Zwischen Luft

C1. Chez Charles

C2. P-Analyse

C3. La Caduta Degli Dei

C4. Aavikon (No Water)

C5. что такое человек

D1. Dark Matter Art Cabinet

D2. Hatch On A Hunch

D3. Theban Constitutional

D4. Kismet

D5. No Noosphere

Description

ESP Institute artist Bartellow, one third of the project Tambien and otherwise known in the Contemporary Classical sphere as Beni Brachtel, returns to the label with his second full-length release, Noosphere. While currently heading the SVS label and residency series out of Munich, Beni’s resume expands well beyond electronic music to include immersive sound installations such as The Adven- ture Of The Empty House (solo live performance across seven floors of Walter Henn’s Deckelbau building), a slew of compositions for the Bavarian State Opera (for which he doubled as conductor), and a prolific career of over twenty-five theater scores for institutions such as the Münchner Kammerspiele, Schauspiel Basel, Maxim Gorki Theater Berlin, Berliner Ensemble, Schauspiel Köln, Schaus- piel Graz and with directors Ersan Mondtag, Alexander Eisenach, Jessica Glause and Tobias Staab among others.

Noosphere is a compendium excerpting from theatrical scores WUT (Elfriede Jelinek, at Schauspielhaus Köln, directed by Ersan Mondtag, 2020), Ödipus and Antigone (Maxim Gorki Theatre Berlin, directed by Ersan Mondtag, 2017), Der Zauberberg (Thomas Mann, Schauspiel Graz, directed by Alexander Eisenach, 2017), Hass Tryptichon (Sybille Berg, Wiener Festwochen / Maxim Gorki Theatre, directed by Ersan Mondtag, 2019), Wonderland Ave. (Sibylle Berg, Schauspielhaus Köln, directed by Ersan Mondtag, 2018), Die Verdammten (after Visconti ́s film, Schauspielhaus Köln, directed by Ersan Mondtag, 2019) and Roi Ubu (Alfred Jarry, Theater Neumarkt, Zurich, directed by Alexander Eisenach, 2018).

The work traverses homages, infusing everything from Baroque to Impressionism, and while these types of references are certainly built into the canon of Theatre as a discipline, here we gather histor- ic layers in an even wider net. Under the self-referential thumb of Contemporary Classical music, this sort of "hindsight" approach has been largely avoided, however, in today’s all-access arena, the constant stream of historic causal-chained events has opened a delta where anything is possible. This defines Bartellow’s stance among his colleagues as well as his cultural position as a composer.

Beni considers beauty a fleeting objective in the arts, that expression is often expected to follow notions of Destructivism or the unfulfilled. Art will pore over wounds, collective angst, mourn- ing a loss of natural habitat or a fear of technological invasion, yet there is a bitter irreverence for the friction or salvation in beauty itself. Acknowledging this subjectivity — what one audience considers superficial pleasure may be deeply profound to another — he leans into musical instinct as if composing via divine conduit.

Noosphere conjures a array of suspense, ecstasy, melancholy, and dread, but in isolating the work from its theatrical component, Brachtel directs our focus toward formal qualities, clearing unim- peded space to conceive fresh narratives and examine dynamism and interconnectivity. In sympathy with often difficult theatre pieces, the passages can be dark and transgressive, but more importantly they remain relative to Brachtel’s circumstances at their time of creation. The title Noosphere speaks to the evolution of human thought and knowledge, opening a door to subjective points-of-view. For example, Nexus II On The Beach refers to both Roberto Musci’s Water Messages On Desert Sand as well as the film Bladerunner, invoking the image of an android enjoying the sunset, but whether or not this abstraction may be considered beautiful depends the listener’s cumulative life experience and perspective.

This is hybrid chamber music, augmented by electro-acoustic layers, juxtaposing various periods and successively processing their residual themes into a trans-generational rendering of “now.”

LAST COPIES

Artist Doxa Sinistra
Title The Other Stranger / Strange
Label Midnight Drive
Cat No DRIVE009
Format 7"
Price £6.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 11/10/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Electronic] [Leftfield] [Reissue]

Track Listing

A. The Other Stranger

B. Strange

Description

Mysterious Dutch outfit Doxa Sinistra have been operating on the fringes of the industrial-experimental and sound collage tape scenes since the very early 1980s. Their output has long been coveted by fans of DIY and left-field music since their earliest transmissions, and this featured 1983 recording 'The Other Stranger' might well be one of their most known. A truly strange offering, the track is a cascading acidic and minimal stripped piece, bathed in disparate resonant sample sources that could possibly have been recorded straight from the TV set. Nobody really knows what it all means, but it doesn't matter as the end result is an engaging mesmerising hypnagogic masterpiece of sampling and rhythmic free sound. A true classic from the outer reaches of electronic music.

Midnight Drive label owner Brian Not Brian featured 'The Other Stranger' on his now infamous 'Holywell Session' cassette tape for the sadly missed Blackest Ever Black ever label in 2014, and the track was also a highlight of Boards Of Canada's cult 'Societas X Tape' for NTS in 2019. This special 7" vinyl only edition also features the more stripped back rhythm track version entitled 'Strange' on the b-side that is a slightly longer mix with a different arrangement and no samples, letting the minimalist acid and drum machine workout unfurl at its own steady woozy pace. This is the first time both versions have been remastered and have appeared together as a single and it is presented here with the blessing and involvement of Doxa Sinistra.

REPRESSES

Artist CODE 6 (JOEY BELTRAM)
Title UNTITLED EP
Label Midnight Drive
Cat No DRIVE005
Format 12"
Price £6.49
Territory WORLDWIDE
Release Date 02/02/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Detroit] [Techno]

Track Listing

A1 - Third Aura

A2 - Last Voyage

B1 - After Life

B2 - Tempest

Description

Techno, Disco, Italo, Electronics, House, Library, Cosmic and Ambient frequencies - These are the bedrocks of the Midnight Drive ethos and sound. A label shining a light on overlooked or unheralded creations and respectfully reissuing them for the contemporary audience. A label that respects and understands the connection between these disparate and sometimes forgotten forms of musical expression and celebrates them. Midnight Drive are extremely proud to present a long out of print and highly sought after NYC ambient techno classic - Code 6's 'Untitled' EP from 1993.

In the early 1990's, Code 6 was a side project by Joey Beltram. A name that is extremely well known and respected in the world of dance music, a true techno stalwart with a hugely impressive catalogue of music, including more than a few classics and with a DJ and production career that spans almost 3 decades.Recorded in 1993, this 4 track EP is a departure from the style Joey was most associated with during this time period, favouring a more ambient, breakbeat driven and esoteric aesthetic. Contained within is 4 wide-screen snapshots of sci-fi drenched emotion, a raw, melodic tour de force that leaves the listener wanting more. It's easy to make lazy comparisons with other sonic emanations of the time from Sheffield, Belgium, London and Cornwall in terms of feel, but the 'Untitled EP' is very much it's own planet, a truly original set of short but effective techno-vignettes that still captivate today in 2018. All of the tracks on this reissue have been remastered from Joey's DAT archive, with the exception of 'Tempest' which was transferred from his mint personal copy of the record. All efforts were made to respectively maintain the sonic integrity of this fantastic, lost record.

REPRESSES

Artist Kerri Chandler
Title The Mood
Label Nervous Records
Cat No NE20136
Format 12"
Price £7.49
Territory WORLDWIDE
Release Date 25/07/2025
Assets Download
All Genres

Track Listing TBC

Description

Sublime deep House of the highest order from New Jersey’s very own Kerri “Kaoz 6:23” Chandler

“The Mood EP” is pure quality from start to finish & is one of Chandler’s lesser spotted releases that is undoubtedly a classic

Released on the legendary Nervous label in 1998 it still stands head & shoulders above most other releases of the time

Fresh, essential & lovingly re-mastered & reissued for 2014

ICYMI

Artist Hiver
Title Dream Universe
Label Gudu Records
Cat No GUDU019
Format 12"
Price £8.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 26/01/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [House] [Techno]

Track Listing

A1. Dream Universe (Vocal Mix)

A2. Purple Phaze

B1. Lodash

B2. Higher Space

Description

Gudu Records label continues a 2023 for the books with Dream Universe, a new four-track EP by Italian duo Hiver.

Based in Milan, Giuseppe Albrizio and Sergio Caio have spent the last decade honing a very special take on electro and machine funk, driven by the duo’s trademark basslines, glossy strings that drip with emotion and an overall utopian nature.

On Dream Universe, a “tribute to early ‘90s house and trance”, built around trance elements, acid bass and Detroit-inspired rhythms made on iconic synthesizers like the Alpha Juno, Juno 106 and the Roland 303, 909 and D-550, they pack more energy and emotion into their music than ever before, from the high-emotional vocal that defines the EP’s title track, to the raw bass hits that drive ‘Lodash’.

At this point, Hiver’s sound is so distinctive that you know one of their tracks the minute you hear it, but Dream Universe feels like the high water mark of their work to date; a duo in complete control of their craft.

ICYMI

Artist Amazingblaze
Title Believe EP
Label KNTXT
Cat No KNTXT023
Format 12"
Price £8.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 26/01/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Techno] [Trance]

Track Listing

A1. Believe

A2. Strange Candy

B1. It Happened Again

B2. Boyz Makin Noiz

Description

This is a welcome return to the label for Amazingblaze who released his Can't Stop EP in January this year and his Venture EP in 2022. Since then he has continued to innovate with his heavy-hitting trance, techno and hardstyle influenced sounds. His ever evolving studio skills see him mix up old school influences with new school sound design that is perfect for engaging dance floors. His signature imprint is all over these four new cuts with their mix of big synths, bigger drums and all consuming grooves.

“Believe EP says it itself. All I wanted to say is that you have to believe in yourself”, Amazingblaze says. “This brand new EP contains 4 full-power tracks that definitely goes through your heart. Massive trance synths combined with vocals make it sound really mysterious and groovy. Hope you enjoy it, and believe in yourself.”

Charlotte de Witte adds: “It’s no secret that to me, Amazingblaze is one of the purest talents out there. This guy really understands what music is about and manages to create dancefloor bombs time after time. I’m super proud to have him on board for another EP on KNTXT and to watch him grow and become one of the top level artists out there.”

'Believe' kicks off with intense drum patterns and smart vocal samples that are lit up with bright and electric synths full of euphoric energy. 'Strange Candy' is a bulky and physical mix of clipped techno funk and throwback rave sounds with strobe-like lasers shooting across the face of the track. There is more peak time brilliance in the hard drums and hands-in-the air synth magic of 'It Happened Again' while 'Boyz Makin Noiz' shuts down with twitchy stabs and twisted acid lines and dark vocals appear from the shadows.

Amazingblaze delivers yet another exceptional EP, seamlessly blending forward-thinking techno and trance elements.

ICYMI

Artist Various Artists
Title EP16
Label Defected
Cat No DFTD655
Format 12"
Price £7.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 31/01/2025
Assets Download
All Genres [House] [Tech House]

Track Listing

A1. Claptone, Rune - Calabria (Claptone Remix Extended)

A2. Jack Back - Feeling

B1. Marco Faraone - My Name ft. Lolita Leopard

B2. Payfone - Day & Night

Description

The sixteenth edition of Defected’s vinyl series continues to commit the label’s biggest digital releases to wax, delivering some of the best house music previously unavailable on vinyl. EP16 brings together four recent releases from Defected’s catalogue of world-class house. First up on the A-side is Claptone & Rune’s ‘Calabria’, a highly anticipated release from summer 2022 thanks to its warm familiarity, big rubbery bassline and brassy saxophone hook that captivated dancefloors instantly. Similarly, Jack Back’s ‘Feeling’ has a hint of noughties nostalgia, released in March of 2022 ready to sweep dancefloors with a rave-ready bass and electrifying vocal. The B-side opens with Ibiza stalwart Marco Faraone’s 2021 release ‘My Name’, featuring intoxicating vocals from Lolita Leopard; dripping with attitude. Closing out this club-focused collection is Payfone’s distinct ‘Day & Night’, featuring an orchestral approach to composition and a deep house groove that bursts in with ease.

ICYMI

Artist Earth Boys
Title In The Sun
Label Public Release
Cat No PR28
Format 12"
Price £7.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 26/01/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Electronic] [House] [Techno]

Track Listing

A1. In The Sun

A2. In The Sun (Eden Burns Remix)

B1. Fog Night

B2. Chillb909

B3. Chillb909 (Mayurashka Remix)

Description

At the dawn of 2024, Earth Boys, the collaborative force of Michael Sherburn and Julian Duron, reemerges on Public Release with their latest EP, 'In the Sun.' Their signature raw and smoke-infused sound is as rugged as ever, reaffirming the unmistakable Earth Boys touch. The lead single gets a hypnotic tweaky groove courtesy of an Eden Burns remix—perfect for setting the stage for a peak-time build—while Tokyo's Mayurashka offers a deep and contemplative atmospheric chugger. This 5-track EP is perfect for a spectrum of cheeky activities on and off the dance floor.

ICYMI

Artist Various Artists
Title EXIT100.2
Label Exit Records
Cat No EXIT1002
Format LP
Price £13.49
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 26/01/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Ambient] [Bass] [Drum & Bass] [Electronica] [Techno]

Track Listing

A1. Heart Drive - It's Ok

A2. instramental - Hanger

A3. Synkro - Graisse

A4. Madison Willing - Youth

AA1. Lewis James, Kid drama, Alia fresco - Flawless

AA2. Joe Seven & Consequence - Noreso

AA3. Sinistarr - Lose Track

AA4. Currency Audio - Adder

Description

Exit Records proudly heralds a monumental achievement in its legacy with the advent of EXIT 100 - a celebration of innovation and creativity. Following the success of Part 1, we are proud to present Part 2 of our 4-part album series. 

This instalment features a diverse array of tracks from both established and emerging artists. Their contributions not only redefine our sound but also embody the future trajectory of Exit Records. Thank you for being a part of our journey.

ICYMI

Artist Elements Of Life Featuring Josh Milan
Title Let Us Shine
Label Vega Records
Cat No VR213
Format 12"
Price £8.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 26/01/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [House] [Soulful House]

Track Listing

A1. Let Us Shine (Josh Milan Honeycomb Mix)

A2. Let Us Shine (Honeycomb Remix Instrumental)

B1. Let Us Shine (Original Louie Vega Mix)

B2. Los Tonos Sagrados ft. Axel Tosca

Description

Elements of Life brings a full on boogie disco tune with some 80s synth goodness. The backgrounds are provided by an all star cast of singers including Cindy Mizelle, Audrey Wheeler, Anané, Dawn Tallman, and Ramona Dunlap. The song is penned by Nico Vega, just at 19 years old writing lyrics with the soul of a person who’s been through various experiences in life. It isa statement song coming from an adolescent stating where we are in the world today with war, and encouraging all to stop fighting, “no more war”,“Let Us Shine Bright As Day”, “Let Us Find A Peaceful Way”, “Let Me Hear You Say”, these words are crying out to the world.

Remixes by Josh Milan on the Josh Milan Honeycomb versions, feeding us an early 80s tune reminding us of the seminal label West End Records. The Louie Vega mixes stay true to the Elements Of Life sound mixed with some Detroit bass groove and synth overtones. A bonus track also added to the release featuring Axel Tosca on keyboards is entitled “Los Tonos Sagrados” which means The Sacred Tones.This instrumental has the early afrobeat rhythm with Axel Tosca ripping through with an organ solo and snare hits accenting the drums and music.Take a listen and enjoy the sounds of “Let Us Shine” and “Los Tonos Sagrados” and it’ll sure to have you with your arms up and eyes closed singing along with the choon in no time!! Available soon at all streaming and digital outlets, with vinyl coming too!!

ICYMI

Artist Tony Touch
Title Apaga La Luz (Remixes)
Label Vega Records
Cat No VR219
Format 2 x 12"
Price £13.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 26/01/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [House] [New York] [Soulful House]

Track Listing

A1. Apaga La Luz (Tony Touch OG Mix)

A2. Apaga La Luz (Mike Dunn Re-Touch)

B1. Apaga La Luz (David Guetta Remix)

B2. Apaga La Luz (Pablo Fierro Raw Dub)

C1. Apaga La Luz (Two Soul Fusion Remix)

C2. Apaga La Luz (Two Soul Fusion Beat-Sax Mix)

D1. Apaga La Luz (David Morales Remix)

D2. Apaga La Luz (David Morales Alt Mix)

Description

“Apaga La Luz” has proven itself to be a bonified club hit with the Tony Touchand Pablo Fierro mixes released last summer 2022. A new buzz has beencreated with the brand new 2023 remixes by Two Soul Fusion AKA Louie Vega & Josh Milan, David Morales, Mike Dunn, and David Guetta. Yes you heard correct, these all star super talents have lent their expertise and made it work once again on dance floors worldwide in a big way. Just click on play and let the remixes take control. 

Dancefloors at festival and clubs have been blowing up all summer to this sureshot fire choon championed by David Guetta, David Morales, Mike Dunn, Louie Vega, Anané Vega, Seth Troxler, Marco Corola, Paco Osuna, The Martinez Brothers, Pablo Fierro, and many more. Stream it, or load it in digital form, coming soon September 29, 2023 on Vega Records and what a true honor it is to have these leaders in thegame contribute their craft to these incredible remixes. Double Pack 12” Vinyl mastered by the DON of mastering Herb “Pump” Powers and Original cover art by artist RULER conceptualized by Pucci. Get the decks ready !!!

ICYMI

Artist Jackmaster
Title Party Going On EP
Label Slacker 85
Cat No SLACKER004
Format 12"
Price £7.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 26/01/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [House]

Track Listing

A1. Party Going On

A2. Freaky Like That w/ Jasper James

B. Let's Go (Tom Trago Remix)

Description

Following an appearance on the Slacker 85's inaugural various artists EP earlier in 2023, Jackmaster returns to Seth Troxler’s celebratory new label with a full EP, ‘Party Going On’. Showcasing a trio of tracks worthy of the Glaswegian DJ and club music expert’s instinctive, genre-spanning DJ sets and also including a new remix from Tom Trago, thoroughly tried-and-tested internationally.

Playful, powerful and elasticated with the Chicago influences that bounce close to his heart, ‘Party Going On’ unfolds as a Jackmaster calling card, a pleasure-seeking anthem built around a rousing B-girl vocal from singer Yvonne, responsible for a series of cult singles on New York’s prolific and influential house label, Cutting Records. With the assistance of a supremely cheeky original synth line, one that wouldn’t fail to move a crowd in any discotheque from 1989 until now, ‘Party Going On’ sees Jack Revill bridge generations of dance floors with contemporary energy.

On the sturdy, sensual 'Freaky Like That', Jack teams up with longtime collaborator & regular B2B partner Jasper James, to pay homage to the outsized deep house of MK, Cajmere or Todd Terry with a seductive arrangement that builds and explodes on command, simmering and swinging towards valleys of jack that anchor then shake ravers with a powerful kick-drum.

Finally, old friend and trusted voyager Tom Trago takes ‘Let’s Go’ on a cosmic journey. Initially appearing as a rolling anthem on the initial Slacker sampler, the versatile Dutchman’s extended reinvention offers a no-less than fifteen-minute trip that masterfully touches on territories including cosmic disco, Jersey garage and acid house.

Continuing a mission to showcase the oddball, esoteric and diverse sounds that inspire Troxler, Jackmaster’s first solo EP perfectly captures the bubbling energy of Slacker 85’s vision. No posing, no pretense, just party.

ICYMI

Artist Hilit Kolet
Title Hot Mess (Incl. Mike Dunn Remix)
Label Rekids
Cat No REKIDS234
Format 12"
Price £7.49
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 17/05/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Deep House] [House]

Track Listing

A1. Hot Mess

A2. Hot Mess (Even Hotter Mix)

B1. Hot Mess (Mike Dunn 'Deep Messy' Remix)

B2. Hot Mess (Mike Dunn 'Deep Messy' Instrumenatal Mix)

Description

Hilit Kolet debuts on Rekids with ‘Hot Mess’, including remixes from the legendary Mike Dunn.

Following her remix of Terry Farley & Wade Teo’s ‘Why We Dance’, Hilit steps up to the Rekids plate with her debut EP for Radio Slave’s label with her single ‘Hot Mess’. A relentlessly driving drum machine werqout, ‘Hot Mess’ sees her masterfully mixing compulsive, marching rhythms with a fiercely impassioned spoken word vocal.

With added raw jackin’ energy in the ‘Even Hotter Mix’, this has the kind of late night runway energy that demands the
Sound Factory be rebuilt. On the B-side, Chicago house legend Mike Dunn’s remix of ‘Hot Mess’ is a deep groove that adds a wriggling earworm bassline, while still embracing the enchanting vocal of the original.

Hilit Kolet has been an integral part of London’s house scene ever since she started slinging vinyl at Soho’s legendary Black Market Records. Her distinctive, energetic DJ style then established her behind the decks everywhere, from high fashion shows to some of the most celebrated underground clubs in London. 2023 saw Hilit going global with shows from Ibiza to Shanghai via Printworks, Warehouse Project and Ministry of Sound.

Her summer single on the Faith imprint ‘POV Siren’ has been embraced by DJs as diverse as Robert Hood and Paul Woolford, and her edit of Laurent Garnier’s ‘Crispy Bacon’ was rinsed by many from Carl Cox to Patrick Topping, before seeing an official release by Garnier himself. ‘Hot Mess’ sets Hilit Kolet up as a serious name to watch out for in 2024.