TITLES COMING SOON FROM ABOVE BOARD

RELEASES FROM JOE BOY, WONDER PALACE, DEFECTED & MORE!

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HOUSE

Sophie Lloyd & Amy Douglas

Sweet Love

Classic

CMC398

12"

£8.99

Various Artists

LCSTRAX004

LOCUS

LCSTRAX004

12"

£7.99

Various Artists

EP18

Defected

DFTD681

12"

£7.99


TECHNO

Midland

You Never Take Me Dancing EP

Graded

GRD007

12"

£8.99

Jdotbalance

Sublimate b/w Precipitate

ESP Institute

ESP113

12"

£7.99

Megalon

The Collected EP's (Volume 2)

Above Board Projects

ABPLP009

2 x 12"

£16.99


DRUM & BASS / JUNGLE

Krust

Irrational Numbers Volume 3

Wonder Palace Music

KRUST003

2 x 12"

£16.99

Fabio, Various Artists

Generation Liquid (Volume 2)

Above Board Projects

GENLIQ002

2 x 12"

£16.99


Wigan Casino Classics 1973-2023

Various Artists

Wigan Casino Classics 1973-2023

Joe Boy

CC50LP

12" LP

£12.99


REPRESSES

FRANÇOIS K.

FK-EP

Wave Music

50004-1

12"

£6.99




Releases in detail:

HOUSE

Artist Sophie Lloyd & Amy Douglas
Title Sweet Love
Label Classic
Cat No CMC398
Format 12"
Price £8.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 20/10/2023
Assets Download
All Genres [Deep House] [House] [Soulful House]

Track Listing

A. Sweet Love (Love Hangover Mix)

B1. Sweet Love (Luke Solomon's Always Love Revision)

B2. Sweet Love (Sweet Lovin' Mix)

Description

Sophie Lloyd returns to Luke Solomon’s imprint alongside the effervescent singer songwriter Amy Douglas for a wax release of ‘Sweet Love’, an anthemic disco release bursting with sensuality. The pair are well known to Classic fans; Sophie for her debut release, ‘Calling Out’ with Detroit trio Dames Brown, and her subsequent release ‘Angels By My Side’ which received a soulful remix package from Floorplan.

Additionally, nostalgic house vocals from Brooklyn’s Amy Douglas have appeared on tracks from Luke Solomon’s ‘Love. Hope. Happiness’ to Horse Meat Disco’s ‘Message To The People’, also featuring the Dames. For the Love Hangover mix of ‘Sweet Love’, a slow, intoxicating intro erupts in a burst of energy as Amy’s vocals and Sophie’s production come together for an ambitious, driving composition.

The vinyl also features a remix from the label boss himself; Luke Solomon’s Always Love Revision of this modern disco anthem ups the ante, adding huge swathes of energy to the previously sensual record. Similarly, the Sweet Lovin’ Mix capitalises on the raucous finale from the original Love Hangover Mix.

HOUSE

Artist Various Artists
Title LCSTRAX004
Label LOCUS
Cat No LCSTRAX004
Format 12"
Price £7.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 27/10/2023
Assets Download
All Genres [Deep House] [House] [Tech House]

Track Listing

A1. Danny Snowden - Essence

A2. Job de Jong - OOC

B1. ADR - Bungee Gum

B2. OURMINDZ - Dusty

Description

LOCUS unveils the lineup for the fourth instalment of its ‘LOCUS Trax’ VA series, Danny Snowden, Job de Jong, ADR and OURMINDZ delivering label debuts across the package.

Blossoming as a label with its own identity, FUSE’s sister imprint LOCUS is continuing to serve up dancefloor heat at an impressive level, with 2023’s releases featuring material from Lauren Lo Sung, Youandewan, Nolga, Okain, Garrett David and more. Returning with another edition of its ongoing ‘LOCUS Trax’ VA, shining a spotlight on emerging talent of note, late October welcomes four new names to the label as UK trio Danny Snowden, ADR, and OURMINDZ join Dutchman Job de Jong.

Danny Snowden kicks things off with the euphoric tones of ‘Essence’ as he combines glossy synths with skippy percussion and a snaking groove, while Job de Jong draws for rumbling low-ends and playful, bouncy electronics Across ‘OOC’. Heading up the b-side, ADR’s ‘Bungee Gum’ brings hazy chords, snaking drums subtle acid-dipped melodies, before OURMINDZ merges resonant organ stabs and elastic synths on the lively ‘Dusty’.

LOCUS Trax Volume 4 drops on 27th October 2023 via digital and physical formats.

HOUSE

Artist Various Artists
Title EP18
Label Defected
Cat No DFTD681
Format 12"
Price £7.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 15/03/2024
Assets Download
All Genres [Deep House] [House]

Track Listing

A1. Butch & Nic Fanciulli - I Want You

A2. Hannah Wants ft. Ara - The One

B1. Archie Hamilton ft. HQA - Let The Light In

B2. Ferreck Dawn ft. Jena - Better

Description

The eighteenth 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 in this format. EP18 collates four impeccable releases in one tidy package, celebrating the modern-day titans of the industry. Kicking off the A-Side, Butch & Nic Fanciulli’s early summer release ‘I Want You’ lifts the mood with its arresting groove and looped rhythms; the revered producers secured primetime radio and club play well into 2023, with many labelling it the tune of summer. Next up, Hannah Wants continues her streak of Defected successes with the dancefloor-ready earworm, ‘The One’, featuring West London singer/songwriter ARA. On the B-Side, British house favourite Archie Hamilton explores classic vocal house influences on ‘Let The Light In’ featuring Mancunian vocalist HQA. Closing out the vinyl collection is Dutch powerhouse Ferreck Dawn with ‘Better’, a record that saw heavy club play thanks to infectious vocals from American vocalist Jena.

TECHNO

Artist Midland
Title You Never Take Me Dancing EP
Label Graded
Cat No GRD007
Format 12"
Price £8.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 17/11/2023
Assets Download
All Genres [Electro] [Techno]

Track Listing

A1. Drift Into The Algorithm

A2. Side Gurn

B1. You Never Take Me Dancing

B2. Strangers on a Train

Description

Midland returns after 4 years with his first solo record “Drift Into The Algorithm” taken from his forthcoming EP “You Never Take Me Dancing.” Following on from 2019’s “Alchemy of Circumstance” the EP consists of four tracks that represent the next chapter in his studio process.

TECHNO

Artist Jdotbalance
Title Sublimate b/w Precipitate
Label ESP Institute
Cat No ESP113
Format 12"
Price £7.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 13/10/2023
Assets Download
All Genres [Techno]

Track Listing

A. Sublimate

B. Precipitate

Description

Jdotbalance left the moon and the sky for a city that works. This is their first offering for the ESP Institute. On side A, 'Sublimate' combines two aspects of a digital pipe and mallet assortment—both as the percussive base for a groove, and as an interstitial layer where inherent resonances are massaged into melody. Bubbles and squeaks dance around the sound-stage periphery, occasionally pierced by high frequency statements, presenting as either ghostly yelps from the aether or as bursts of kaleidoscopic shards. A third of the way through the track, the instrumentation truly does sublimate, crystallizing into a new self—bolder and naughtier, abandoning its pensive optimism for a detour around the spectrum's dark end. On the flip, 'Precipitate' continues with its predecessor's primer of metallic percussion, but accelerates the pace to reveal Jdot’s attitude leaning toward cunty malice. The kick drum relentlessly pounds us as 16th note droplets metamorphose from chrome-dipped hail into full-blown acid wind. As intensity retreats beneath the digital rubble and the track draws to a close, so does our stream of Jdot’s consciousness. These two songs will accelerate your nervous system.

TECHNO

Artist Megalon
Title The Collected EP's (Volume 2)
Label Above Board Projects
Cat No ABPLP009
Format 2 x 12"
Price £16.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 27/10/2023
Assets Download
All Genres [Electro] [House] [Techno]

Track Listing

A1. Pod

A2. Traffik

B1. Echno

B2. Asteroid

C1. Deff

C2. Ghost

D1. Spook

D2. Medusa

Description

Introducing Part 2 of Megalon's highly anticipated archival collection, showcasing their studio output between 1995 and 1997. This compilation brings together the best tracks from the EPs released by Megalon on esteemed labels like R&S and London's Plink Plonk Records.

Continuing their sonic voyage with finesse, this selection embodies the duo's forward-thinking approach. The music presented here is a testament to their ability to explore diverse styles and capture various moods, maintaining a striking modernity that remains relevant regardless of time. These tracks possess a timeless quality, sounding as fresh today as they did when they were first conceived. For any dedicated techno enthusiast, these records are a must-have addition to their record collection. With its true school UK techno essence and minimal electronic stylings, this compilation stands tall above much of the music produced on this island during that era.

Drawing from Megalon's extensive DAT tape archive, all the music featured in this compilation has been meticulously restored by the renowned Curvepusher. The artwork and design have been crafted under the keen eye of Rogan Jeans, the original designer for Plink Plonk Records and Megalon, ensuring a visually captivating experience to complement the exceptional sound.

DRUM & BASS / JUNGLE

Artist Krust
Title Irrational Numbers Volume 3
Label Wonder Palace Music
Cat No KRUST003
Format 2 x 12"
Price £16.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 10/11/2023
Assets Download
All Genres [Bass] [Drum & Bass] [Jungle]

Track Listing

A1. Black Marbles

A2. Gang Related - Rukus

B1. The Resister

B2. 3 Colours Black

C. Soul In Motion

D1. Future Talk

D2. Future Unknown

Description

Presenting the third volume of forward-thinking electronics and peerless Jungle / D&B expressionism from iconoclastic Bristol producer and DJ, Krust. An artist who has always been pushing the sonic envelope while keeping dancefloors fully locked.

Introducing 'Irrational Numbers,' a meticulously curated collection of five parts, available on both vinyl and digital formats. This 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 3 serves us a plethora of unmissable highlights from Krust's enviable back catalogue. From the raw jump-up chaos of 'Rukus', the early rolling business of 'The Resister' to the epic genre defying voyage that is 'Soul In Motion', no stone is left unturned on what is - once again - an essential purchase for any serious lover of electronic music.

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.

DRUM & BASS / JUNGLE

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.

Wigan Casino Classics 1973-2023

Artist Various Artists
Title Wigan Casino Classics 1973-2023
Label Joe Boy
Cat No CC50LP
Format 12" LP
Price £12.99
Territory Worldwide
Release Date 01/12/2023
Assets Download
All Genres [Funk] [Northern Soul] [Soul]

Track Listing

A1. The M.V.P.'s - Turnin' My Heartbeat Up

A2. Major Lance - You Don't Want Me No More

A3. Paul Anka - I Can't Help Lovin' You

A4. The Vibrations - 'Cause You're Mine

A5. Laura Greene - Moonlight Music In You

A6. Lou Edwards & Today's People - Talkin' 'Bout Poor Folks Thinkin' 'Bout My Folks

A7. The Seven Souls - I Still Love You

B1. Dana Valery - You Don't Know Where Your Interest Lies

B2. Shane Martin - I Need You

B3. The Metros - Since I Found My Baby

B4. Sandi Sheldon - You're Gonna Make Me Love You

B5. Lorraine Chandler - I Can't Change

B6. Lou Courtney - Trying To Find My Woman

B7. Johnny Robinson - Gone But Not Forgotten

Description

Wigan Casino - the original UK dance culture super club - ran its’ first Nothern Soul All-Nighter in September 1973. It’s last session was in December 1981, and by then its 500 plus frantic All-Nighter had firmly stamped Northern Soul as an integral part of the British music landscape,

Wigan Casino Classics 1973 - 2023 proudly celebrates 50 years since the birth of the most important ever Northern Soul venue with 14 all time classic floor fillers. The Sandi Sheldon, Major Lance, The Seven Souls and Johnny Robinson gems were originally released on the Uber cool Okeh label but despite being part of the mighty Columbia Records empire sank without trace on release in the USA only to be discovered (and revered) by UK Soul devotees.

The Metros and Lorraine Chandler tracks were produced by Detroit’s mighty Pied Piper Productions crew and demonstrate that Motown were far from the only Motor City set up that knew how to conjure up truly breathtaking music.

In Northern Soul lore there is an intriguing story behind all 14 tracks - who produced and wrote them, which Rare Soul detectives - the original crate diggers - discovered them, what DJs played them..

But at the centre of it all is Wigan Casino, the seen better days Lancashire dance hall where 2,500 plus Soul fanatics flocked to every weekend to dance dance dance at the pre Rave era ultimate Rave. The recent 50th Anniversary celebration in Blackpool attracted a 5,000 turn out. The legend lives on.

This release marks the return of the always style wise Joe Boy label. Their trademark on point graphics are reinforced with the LP front sleeve being devoted to an iconic photograph by Francesco Mellini taken at the last ever Casino All-Nighter.

Soul plus Art from The Heart of Soul.

REPRESSES

Artist FRANÇOIS K.
Title FK-EP
Label Wave Music
Cat No 50004-1
Format 12"
Price £6.99
Territory WORLDWIDE
Release Date 04/04/2025
Assets Download
All Genres [Deep House] [Techno]

Track Listing

A1. Hypnodelic

A2. Mindspeak

B1. Edge Of Time

B2. Moov

Description

Francois Kevorkian is a name that should need no introduction. With over 40 years in the game FK has occupied numerous roles in his long and storied career - drummer, DJ, A&R man, remixer and producer - his skills know no boundaries. Having DJ-ed during the nascent days of club culture in NYC alongside Walter Gibbons, Larry Levan and more, Kevorkian has been there from day one. Years spent in the seminal clubs of the day sharpened his ears and his prowess behind the mixing desk saw him become the A&R man at the legendary Prelude records in the early 80's, this in turn led to him working with everyone from The Eurythmics, Depeche Mode, Erasure, D-Train, Yazoo, The Smiths, Kraftwerk and many many more. A true NYC original and legend, Kevorkian is still active today and the respect he commands amongst his peers has never waned, his adventurous extended DJ sets, seminal mixes and remixes and his open ears and open mind have ensured that he will go down in history as a musical pioneer.

Rewind to 1995. Kevorkian's 'Wave Music' imprint has come into existence with a handful of releases. No-one could imagine that his self-produced 'FK EP' - the next release on the label - would be a stone cold classic. Easily one of the most consistent, exciting and solid EP's to come out of NYC during this golden era of dance music. Across 4 tracks we are taken on a sound journey through a world that is undoubtedly informed by FK's time as an engineer, DJ and most importantly, a music lover.

EP opener 'Hypnodelic' brings us into this world, a deep, driving cut that fuses the dubbed out vocals of Freddie Turner against FK's keyboards and immaculate drum programming, oozing cosmic electronic soul, this track was destined to be a future classic. 'Mindspeak' also boasts some tough drums and with a respectful nod to Chicago is an incredibly mixed and arranged peak-time cut that will drive your dancefloor into deep space again and again. 'Edge Of Time' welcomes us to the flipside of the EP, wild Latin percussions, tablas and old school horn stabs drive this monstrous cut, not to mention cavernous dub FX and that huge bassline that just doesn't let up. Essential. 'Moov' rounds things out on a more subdued, stripped back vibe. Reversed percussions and spaced-out synth chords lace this beautifully understated and warm track, one that builds into a crescendo of melodies and hypnotic rhythms and the perfect way to close what has been a truly special musical journey.

This essential reissue of the 'FK EP' has been fully licensed, sanctioned and remastered in conjunction with FK from the original master sources by Optimum Mastering, Bristol UK, repressed onto high quality vinyl and packaged as the 1995 release was. A truly classic record indeed, available again for 2018. Welcome back Wave Music!