Back catalogue: All genres

Notes: Sound:
- 4-operator FM Sound Engine offers dynamic and expressive additive synthesis

- A new feature of this engine is continuously variable feedback on every operator allowing for a wide-range of sound creation

- Two programmable effects blocks with seven effect types per block:
(The effect types are: VCM Touch Wah, VCM Flanger, VCM Phaser, Chorus, Delay, Reverb and Distortion)

- Multi-touch control interface gives direct access to four simultaneous parameters

- 32 Voice memory locations allow storing and recalling favorite Voices

Control:
- Based on the FS action found on the flagship Motif XF, HQ (High Quality) Mini Keys provide premium feel and response for fast, accurate and natural playing

- Sustain pedal input allows the sustain function for all FM generated sounds

Looper:
Integrated Phrase Looper: capture song ideas or just jam.

Mobility & Connectivity:
- Speakers

2W 3cm stereo speaker system lets you play any place, any time.

Specially designed bass reflex port technology enhances bass response for full, rich sound.

- USB

USB "TO HOST" allows MIDI connectivity to your USB-equipped computer or iOS device.

- Audio output

Dual 1/4"unbalanced line outputs provide connection to mixers, audio interfaces, DI boxes and more.

- Audio input

A 3.5mm aux line input lets you connect and hear mobile devices, tablets and more through the instrument.

- Controller

Continuous controller pedal input for volume control.

Battery powered:
Uses six "AA" batteries with five hours of life.

Create your Soundmondo. Inspire and be inspired:
Soundmondo is a free sound sharing community that lets you discover, create and share reface Voices and Set Lists using Google Chrome any place, any time you're online.

Powered by Web MIDI, Soundmondo is simple to use - just connect reface to Chrome and you're ready to create or start browsing.

Notes: When the classic MS-20 analog synthesizer appeared in 1978, it had a trusted partner in the SQ-10 step sequencer. Now, after thirty years, the MS-20 has been reborn as the MS-20 mini, and the SQ-10 has evolved into the more modern SQ-1.

The SQ-1 is a compact step sequencer with 2 x 8 steps. It's wealth of connection jacks allows it to be connected to the MS-20 and a variety of other synthesizers. Vintage analog synths or the latest compact synths can be controlled from this single unit. You can also switch between a variety of synthesizer modes and use the step buttons to create performances overflowing with spontaneity, just as when using a volca unit.

Liberate yourself from the numerically-bound parameter editing that's typical on a DAW; you'll enjoy truly musical inspiration as you train your ears and concentrate on what your fingertips are doing. Don't miss the experience of music that's driven by your instinct.

Rather than the commonly used V/Oct standard, the CV design of the MS-20 always used the Hz/V standard that provides excellent pitch stability limiting the step sequencers that are able to correctly control the MS-20. As a descendant of the SQ-10, the SQ-1 supports the Hz/V standard, enabling it to perfectly control the MS-20 or MS-20 mini. It goes without saying the V/Oct standard is also supported, and the voltage level of the CV output and polarity of the GATE output can be specified as appropriate for the device you've connected. This versatility will enable you to control a wide variety of other synthesizers as well.

As a connector, the SQ-1 provides two CV/GATE OUT channels, the standard MIDI OUT and USB MIDI, littleBits out (to connect to the littleBits synth kit by littleBits Electronics Inc.), plus the SYNC IN/OUT channel that allows you to connect to the volca series and monotribe. Compact and complete with all the functions you need, the SQ-1 is the ideal hardware sequencer.

The SQ-1 provides two channels (A and B) of 8-step sequencer that can operate consecutively, or be used in a variety of other modes. For example, you can run A and B following each other to function as a 16-step sequencer, ignore the order and make the steps play randomly, or use A and B to control different parameters as they run in parallel. From simple sequences to complex changes, you can choose from a variety of modes to suit your needs.

The 2 x 8 step buttons can be used in the usual way to turn notes on/off, but you can also use the MODE button to switch their function, opening up powerful possibilities such as letting you "perform" the sequence itself, as on a volca unit.

"Active Step" lets you skip steps mid-way through a sequence, and "Step Jump" lets you instantly play just the step that you press, producing irregular rhythms or effects that are reminiscent of short loops. "Slide" produces an effect in which steps are connected smoothly; using this to control a synth bass is an easy way for anyone to generate an acid sound.

Packed with carefully selected functionality, the SQ-1 features a compact and very sturdy sheet-metal body. Placed beside the MS-20 series, you'll notice a sense of solidity that gives the impression they were manufactured in the same era. The unit can operate on two AA batteries or on USB bus power.

Sequence step resolution is selectable as quarter notes, eighth notes, or 16th notes.

You can specify the way in which the step knobs control the pitch. The knob values can specify the pitch directly, or they can specify the closest note in a major, minor, or chromatic scale.

Notes: A good delay was an essential part of the classic analog synthesizer sound. More often than not, that delay came from a tape-style echo machine until affordable digital delays were created. The Monotron Delay is an analog synthesizer optimized for sound effects. In addition to its analog oscillator, filter and LFO, it also provides a space delay that's indispensible for swooping, cosmic sounds. The monotron Delay even reproduces the pitch changes that occur when you vary the delay time, just as though you were using an analog tape echo. This fat and warm delay will add an authentic edge to your analog sounds.

It also features Korg's class VCF filter for full control over your sounds. The distinctive tone of an analog filter (VCF) can dramatically alter and enrich the sound. The Monotron Delay uses the same highly acclaimed VCF circuit as Korg's classic MS-10 and MS-20 semi modular synthesizers. Originally released over 30 years ago, these instruments are still coveted today for their aggressive, dynamic filters. The VCF Cutoff knob sets the frequency or tone of the filter; the VCF Peak knob adds emphasis. A powerful filter is an essential aspect of any analog synthesizer, applying dramatic tonal changes to the sound, and projecting an intense personality that will stand out in any live performance.

Create classic sounding analogue tape delays to add warms and new dimensions to your synth sounds. Also included is Korg's fantastic enhanced ribbon controller keyboard, while a mini jack input also allows you to run any external audio, such as a Kaossilator, digital piano or guitar, through the Monotron Duo. As standard, the Monotron range comes with a powerful built-in speakers and is battery operated for the ultimate portable experience.

The Low Frequency Oscillator (LFO) waveform used to modulate the pitch now offers a choice of waveshapes, which is a new square wave plus the traditional triangle wave. Both the rate (speed) and the intensity (depth) can be adjusted independently. In addition, a trimpot on the back panel can continuously adjust the shape/direction of the triangle wave or the pulse-width of the square wave to deliver even more versatility. Used in conjunction with the delay, the LFO can create dazzling effects and provide unique possibilities for embellishing your songs.

The Monotron Delay's ribbon controller keyboard features a wide, 4-octave range. This design allows the pitch to be controlled even more aggressively and dynamically, making the Monotron Delay a great weapon for a DJ to get the floor moving with irresistible sound. The reversed white keys and body adornments glows under black light illumination, making the monotron Delay ideal for delivering a striking visual impact in nearly any club environment.

The input jack (AUX input) built into the Monotron Delay's compact body allow you to place any audio source into the Monotron Delay's signal path, directly before the analog filter and delay circuit. This provides a great way to connect a Kaossilator, a guitar, or a digital audio player to the Monotron and enjoy tone-bending filter and delay effect.

A miniature speaker is built into the Monotron Delay. Along with the battery operation and compact size, this feature allows you to enjoy the share the Monotron Delay's analog synthesis sound with your friends, anywhere, at any time. There's also a headphone output that you can use when practicing in private, creating sounds at home, recording, or for connecting to an amplifier or PA system.

Notes: The fastest and most intuitive way to make beats.

A production machine that lets you create using a gigantic array of samples.

The Electribe sampler is a sample-based production machine that lets you construct beats at maximum speed. You can freely edit and resample using waveforms that you've loaded and preset samples. Modulation and effects can be controlled easily just by turning knobs on the top panel. In addition, a variety of input interfaces optimized for inputting rhythm, bass, or melody allow you to smoothly create sequences as fast as you can think.

The sequences that you create can then undergo additional evolution on stage or in your laptop. You can enjoy intuitive live performances that link various devices with the Electribe sampler, or utilize this capability for full-fledged music production by exporting sequence data to Ableton Live for detailed editing and final mixing.

The latest system version 2 adds a much-requested pattern chain function that will be a great asset for live performances or music production. The lineup has also become more colourful with the new metallic red model. And Korg have also provided bonus patterns that reveal even greater sonic potential.

Making your beat-making ideas rapidly take shape. It's the Electribe sampler; a sampler + sequencer that's thoroughly optimized for speed.

The Electribe sampler continues to evolve

A new metallic red model - a nod to the legacy of electribe

Following the dark black unit, the lineup has been joined by a metallic red model that's reminiscent of the previous model, the ELECTRIBE SX. Complemented by the numerous colourfully illuminated LEDs, this unit will energize your playing.

Many new functions added via system update

Updates make the Electribe sampler evolve daily. System version 2 adds support for the much-requested pattern chain function and undo function, as well as support for original value display. Users who already own an Electribe sampler can update their unit and then enjoy playing.

Download over 200 bonus patterns

Electribe artists, sound designers, and beat makers from around the world have created bonus pattern data packed with new sounds, phrases, and sequences. These 237 different patterns are packed with sample sounds, drum kits, and ideas for a wide range of musical styles. They are provided as reference materials for your beat-making or as foundations to give you new inspiration.

Specifications

Sound System
Type: PCM sound engine + Analog modelling sound engine

Maximum Polyphony
24 voices
* The polyphony of the entire pattern varies depending on the Oscillator, Filter, and Insert Fx type.
* Independent parameters for each voice have been simplified; four voices share the parameters of one conventional voice.
Sample: Type (920), Pitch/Glide, Edit
Sample Types: Analog (16), Audio In (2), Kick (37), Snare (44), Clap (12), HiHat (37), Cymbal (8), Hits (33), Shots (44), Voice (31), SE (7), FX (30), Tom (10), Percussion (31), Phrase (15), Loop (22), PCM (31), User Sample (499)
Filter: Filter (Cutoff), Resonance, EG Int, LPF/HPF/BPF (3)
Modulation: Type (72), Depth, Speed
Amp/Envelope Generator: Level, Pan, Attack, Decay/Release, Amp EG On/Off
Scale Types: 35
Gate Arpeggiator Types: 50
Sampling Frequency: 48 kHz
AD/DA Conversion: 24 bit

Sampler
User Samples: Up to 499 samples
Memory
Total maximum approximately 270 seconds (calculated as monaural)
* Regardless of the capacity of the SD card
* Including presets
Edits: Start/End Point, Loop Start Point, Tune, Time Slice, Level, Direction, Resampling

Effect
Insert Effect:One unit (can be used on each of the 16 parts)
Type (38), Edit, Insert FX On/Off

Master Effect:
One unit
Type (32), Touch Pad, Master FX On/Off, Master FX Hold On/Off
Sequencer
Number of Steps: 16 steps x 4
Number of Parts: 16 parts (one part consists of a sound, steps, insert effect, modulation sequence, etc)
Number of Patterns:
250 patterns (150 Presets / 100 Initial)
(one pattern consists of parts, master effect, key, scale setting, etc)
Motion Sequences: Up to 24 motion sequences can be stored (for each pattern)
Groove Types: 25
Pattern Set: Up to 64 patterns can be stored
Pattern Chain: Up to 250 patterns can be chained
Export: Ableton Live project file format, WAV file format (48 kHz, 16 bit)
Event Recording: Up to 100 files can be saved

Trigger Pads
Number of Pads: 16 pads (Velocity sensitive)
Modes: Trigger, Sequencer, Keyboard, Chord, Step Jump, Pattern Set, Touch Pad
Modes: Gate Arp, Touch Scale, Master FX

Connectors

Audio:
L/Mono, R Output (Standard phone jack)
Headphones (Stereo mini jack)
Audio Input (Stereo mini jack)

MIDI: In, Out (Use an included MIDI adapter cable)
USB: Type micro B
Sync:In, Out (Stereo mini jack)

External Storage Device: SD Card (512 MB -- 2 GB), SDHC Card (Up to 32 GB)

Power

Power Supply: AC adapter (DC 9V) or AA battery x 6 (Alkaline battery or Nickel metal hydride battery)
Battery Life: Approximately 5 hours (Power Saving: ON, with Nickel metal hydride battery)
Current Consumption: Less than 500 mA
Chassis: Zinc die cast

Dimensions (W x D x H): 339 x 189 x 45 mm / 13.35" x 7.44" x 1.77"
Weight: 1.6 kg / 3.53 lbs
Colour Variations: Metallic Red (electribe2s-RD), Black (electribe2s)
Included Items: AC adapter (DC9V), MIDI adapter cable x 2, Ableton Live 9 lite (License card included)
Accessories: Sync Cables SQ-CABLE-6, Gig Bag DJ-GB-1

Review: Italian singer Elena Ferretti was popular on the Italo and Eurobeat scene between the early '80s, produced by the likes of Giacomo Maiolini, Mauro Farina, Sergio Dall'Ora and Giancarlo Pasquini. One of her best known hits is the song "My World" (as Sophie). Here we have a reissue of Feretti's highly valued Italo classic (to those who know) in the form of "Witch" under the Helen alias - with which she used for half a dozen or so tracks in her career. A typically neon-lit Italo disco anthem of the timeless variety, with additional remixes by Centre Neptune chief Flemming Dalum and mad Aussie Hysteric - both of them giving the track a nice reshape for modern dancefloors.

Review: On its initial release in 1983, 'Dolce Vita' - the debut singe from Fabio Roscioli under the Anglicised Ryan Paris alias - sold five million copies in Europe, briefly turning the Italian artist into a colossal star. This 40th anniversary reissue naturally features both versions from the original 12" - the glossy, mid-tempo cheeriness of the Italo-disco-goes-synth-pop flex of the 'Extended Mix' - and the similar sounding instrumental. Over on side B, we get the obligatory remixes. Italo-disco specialist Flemming Dalum delivers a sparkling Italo-disco take that's arguably even better than the 83 original, while Van Edelsteyn beefs up the original and adds a touch of 21st century dancefloor throb with added early Warp Records style bleeps.

Review: MCL tracks back to the late 80s and the time when EBM, techno and house were colliding in Frankfurt. The project was spearheaded by Alexander Henninger and Ken Taylor, who had a barrel of laughs cutting up dark and punchy box jams with some cheeky Big Apple samples for the kind of unexpected dancefloor drop which will always incite a reaction from the crowd. There are a variety of mixes to choose from depending on which specific energy you want to bring, plus there's the bonus 'Short Wave Symphony' as the consummate B2 track which offers some pure synth divisions after all that seat-inducing action on the rest of the platter.

Review: A real doozy of an early Italo, proto-darkwave heater from Fred Ventura-led Fokewulf 190, bound to illicit dancefloor devastation any darn time of year. Straddling the boundary between the more uptempo chapters of Italo and the more austere permutations of synth pop, Fokewulf's timeless anthem lends itself well to DJ Tin Tin and Flemming Dalum's respectful but gently modernised remixes. If anything though, they cast the original in a more innovative light, with its sparse, classy drive.

Review: Swiss venue Zukunft Club Zurich made the logical expansion into a record label earlier this year with Zukunft Recordings, which was inaugurated in fine fashion by The Legendary Lightness, with Ripperton making the 12" all the more special thanks to his wonderful remix. Zukunft clearly felt there was further room to explore "Hey Ron" with two more remixes pressed up for their second 12" release. Up top Frank Wiedemann from Ame/Howling creates a hymn for the dancefloor, whilst the flip sees Kejeblos veering off into groovy disco territory on a revision blessed with early electro influences.

Review: Zodiak Commune reaches right back into the early days of the Dutch acid techno and electro scene, and it remains an essential outlet for tough and gnarly rave gear for darkened souls. This new record is a split between Umwelt and Serge Geyzel, continuing a series of split discs pitting serious underground operators against each other. Umwelt's side kicks off with the blistering acid electro of 'The Wake Of The Anthropocene' and follows up with heavy but melodic pearler 'Cosmic Dancer'. Geyzel's 'Off The Ground' is a nervy slice of acid with sad-hearted undertones, and 'Hostage' completes the set with a moody, percussive throwdown.

Review: Human Behind Pluto, johnfaustus and VSO all contuse to this new split red vinyl from Zodiak Communte. Human Behind Pluto goes first with a warp speed, electro-tinged techno track that has a knack-snapping beat and brilliantly mangled acid line. Johnfaustus's 'Red Sonjia' is dark and twisted electro from the underworld and VSO offers two sick jams: 'Sinking' is a bumping and coruscated bit of electro-crunk and 'Complacency' is a dense full flavour cosmic assault with fearless drum programming and plenty of suspenseful synths. This one takes no prisoners and comes with its own unique insert.

Review: French electro botherer Kafkactrl came up over the past couple of years with releases on Vortex Traks, and now they've been snapped up by Kluentah's Zement label which means rubbing shoulders with the likes of LTF and Chupacabras. Fine company indeed, and this promising newcomer more than steps up to the plate with assured, moody and brooding electro gear produced with flair and precision in equal measure. Across the six tracks you get a lot of ground covered, from 'Interzone's edgy dystopian machine funk to the lurid robo-nightmares of 'Gradient Descent' and the Drexciyan body pop of 'Checksum Zero'.

Review: Zement welcome back Ole Mic Odd and Alonzo for another punch of high impact tunes aimed squarely at the floor. There is plenty of cosmic urgency to the electro-tech of 'B-A-D' and all its withering sci-fi aesthetics. 'Automate Your Mind' bristles eve more with brilliantly tight drums and hits and mystic pads up above. 'Body Rocking' gets busy with pixelated melodic arps and vocoder vocals with punchy kicks and 'Smoke Break' is a more mindful and slower jam for thoughtful reflection.

Review: Blind Prophet & Ishan Sound come together for their first pan-atlantic collaboration here in what is a fine return to the ZamZam label. The pair first met in Portland in 2019 and so it's good to finally have some sounds to get stuck into from their meeting of minds. 'The Labyrinth' kicks off with hefty and stepping drum rhythms that are overlaid by bright synth lines and mystic flutes. The interloping melodies and a menacing bassline finish it in style. On the flip, things get much more dark with 'Minotaur Dub' which is a shadowy world of refracting drums and oodles of reverb and echo. There is a predatory sense to the rhythm that never lets up as fizzing bass pries every deep into the dead of night.

Review: Dave Lee's "AC Soul Symphony" alias has been releasing delectable and sultry disco since 2005 but reached his magnus opus in 2023 with the release of the "Metamorphosis" LP. Here we find two tracks handpicked from the album and delivered, for the first time, in a 7" format. The single starts much as the album does with the track "Windy City Theme", beautifully scored, recorded, and produced legato strings envelope the track, punctuated with horns and vocals reminiscent of a Love Unlimited Orchestra production. This version of the track has been rearranged, speeding up the pacing of the track and reaching the juicy parts in a really satisfying way. On the flip side we have the title track from the album "Metamorphosis", which is the first time the vocal version has been made available on Vinyl. A bass laden intro gives ways to glistening pianos and those signature strings (have we mentioned how good the strings are?). A more laid back and seductive track than the A side, but no less appealing. Again, due to the limitations of the 7" format, "Metamorphosis" has been expertly rearranged with loving care and attention.

Review: Originally recorded in the late 1970s and using many of the musicians employed by Diana Ross on her track 'The Boss'. 'Can't Put No Price On Love' has long been regarded as North End's 'long lost' single - an inspired disco workout employing that pre-dates the Arthur Baker/Tony Carbone-helmed project's most famous song, Tee Scott/Larry Levan favourite 'Happy Days'. The original multitrack was unfortunately lost, but the track finally appears, 40-odd years after it was recorded. Whether what we're hearing was finished and mixed at the time is uncertain, but the 'Club Mix' is certainly authentic sounding - a genuinely energetic, joyous and effervescent New York disco number with full orchestration, addictive vocals (Jocelyn Brown & Dennis Collins on backing Vox) and a killer groove. Elsewhere across the EP, we get two versions of 'We Can't Live Like This Anymore' - the synth-laden, solo-heavy disco-boogie style original mix (B2) and a superb 'drum break' percussion tool (A2) - and a brilliantly low-slung instrumental dub-disco cover of The Temptations' 'Cloud 9'.

Review: Time to Attack the Dancefloor once more as we supply some heavy Disco & House weaponry. Featuring the brand new remix of Opolopo's storming 'Stroke my Disco' by dutch funkateers Fouk who double down on the Piano and Clav workouts for the peak time. Exclusive new material from Wipe The Needle who's 'Skyscrapers' track is a modern Jazz-Funk masterpiece, heavy on the flute and soulful bass. On the flip Dave Lee takes it back to '97 with his rework of Backroom Productions 'Classic Vibe' which sees him flex his house-ier muscles, re-arranging the classic elements and adding extra keys to this much loved underground tune. Finishing off the EP is Dave's remix of nu-soul diva Raquel Rodriguez, where he crafts Raquel's dynamic vocal delivery over chunky Disco drumming & soulful synths before letting loose into Roy Ayers-esque vibes finale!

Review: This special 12" features two tracks that will not be on the vinyl version of the forthcoming AC Soul Symphony, Disco opus "Metamorphosis" featuring a 20 piece orchestra alongside a whole host of top live players. That makes it an even more vital pick up because both are pure disco fire. 'I Want To See You Dance' has the title's classic refrain repeated over big Salsoul style string licks, funky basslines and soloing piano. 'The Talented Mr Adams' is a tribute to the legendary disco producer Patrick Adams and is a super sweet swooner with golden live strings and brass backing up a loose-limbed rhythm and vamping pianos that get you in the mood for love. These two tracks act as a fine teaser for what's to come on the much-anticipated album from a contemporary version of acts like MFSB and Love Unlimited Orchestra.

Review: Dave Lee's Z Records continues to fly the flag for disco-tinged house, or house-tinged disco, from new school artists and old-school mainstays. One thing you can be sure of with music n this label is that it will be big, crowd-pleasing tackle that never forgets its roots. There is real religious rapture in the thrilling Doug Godbizniss mix of 'The Mighty Douglas' which gets the EP underway in fine style. After that is a sumptuous, string-laced house classic from Ron Basejam, a lush mix of the wonderfully ethereal 'American Dram' from lounge-y house don Atjazz and classy, hip-swinging vocal house bomb from Dave Lee himself.

Review: Dimitri From Paris has the kind of masterful touch which makes any one of his remixes buy on sight material. But if you need to know more, on this 12" for Z Records he's taking on the Russian band Leonid & Friends and their cover of 'Street Player' by Chicago. Of course the original was an iconic joint made even more classic by 'that' Bucketheads tune, and you can hear DFP having fun nodding to that iconic bit of 90s chart-topping house in these deadly versions. If you like your disco house fierce and fiery but still delivered with finesse, this record is all you need.

Review: Soul meets speed garage on this new V/A EP from Z Records, blurring the lines between the genres in just the way we like it. The opening track - Grant Nelson's mix of 'Starlight' by Dave & Omar - is a euphoric, piano-laced uplifter which both sonically and lyrically urges us to reach for the sky. That's followed by the DJ Fudge production 'Everything' by Chocolate Fudge Band, featuring lots of live instrumentation and a Curtis Mayfield style vocal, while over on the flip, 'Looking For You' proves to be a deep and bouncy cut filled with soulful Motown vocal chops and an organ workout worthy of any Sunday service, over a beautifully wonky house framework.

Review: This 2023 RSD release on Z Records is a treat for fans of soulful disco and 2-step garage. The A-side features a special 45 version of 'Secret Life Of Us', a catchy and uplifting anthem from The Sunburst Band's fourth album. The B-side showcases a 2-step soul mix of 'Look At The Stars', a smooth and romantic tune from Dave Lee's Produced With Love II album. Both tracks showcase the vocal talents of Maurissa Rose, who adds warmth and emotion to the songs.

Review: Dave Lee aka Joey Negro has pulled together a fine team of remixers here to serve up their own versions of tunes by him, Jakarta, The Sunburst Band and Prospect Park, all for his own Z Records. Freerange boss and deep house Don Jimspter goes first and brings real sunshine to his take on 'He Is.' Detroit badman Andres then does what he does best to 'I Recognise', that is layering in hip hop slanted beats and nice rolling baselines under lush chords. On the flip are two more positive house vibrations to make this a handy EP.

Review: Originally dropped mid-summer as a digital release, the quality on this remix package from The Sunburst Band was just too good to keep off wax. First up, bandleader Dave Lee himself steps up with a 'Jazz Funk Renaissance' version of 'Listen Love' which frames Wayne Hernandez's stirring vocal turn with molten Rhodes and wah-wah guitars aplenty. Then the Louie Vega-Josh Milan dream team come correct with two spellbinding versions that speak to their prowess in the field of live, deeply rooted house music. For good measure, Lee rounds things off on the B2 with a 'Flute Reboot' for those who just want to zone in on the groove.

Review: In its full digital form, Z Records' excellent Life's Better With Disco Comp is an epic 37 tracks deep. Naturally there aren't that many cuts on this sampler 12", but the four on show are undoubtedly amongst the set's many highlights. Boss man Dave Lee kicks things off via a superb classic disco-meets-nu-disco revision of Firefly's 'Love Is Gunna Be On Your Side', before there's a chance to cop an obscure Backroom Productions rework of their early proto-house/garage-house gem (as Ruffneck), 'The Power - The Rhythm'. The mid-'80s fun continues on Larry Levan's vintage remix of Jonny Dynell's 'Rhythm of Love' - a killer fusion of dubbed-out synths and drums and Konk style Latin percussion - while Doug Willis' 'Doug's Disco Theme' is a classic disco-house number from Lee under one of his many alternative aliases.

Review: Sean McCabe's work has formed a solid backbone for Dave Lee's Z Records in the last couple of years. He has a fresh disco style that pairs the old with the new in essential ways. For this new 12" he teases his new album with a sampler of four reworks and remixes. His take on 'Now What' is deep and glossy, then he takes The Blackbyrds' 'Mysterious Vibes' in a slick and soulful deep house direction complete with standout lead sax. The deep house mood continues on the 'Timeline' remix chi has late night keys and exudes real warmth. Last of all is a fantastic broken beat workout that is lush and jazzy.

Review: Z Records' ongoing 'Attack The Dancefloor 'series of compilation style vinyl EPs has long been a reliable source of disco-fired excellence, and this 21st edition is another high-quality affair. We're first treated to a superb Jimpster revision of recent Mistura single 'Want Me Back', where Jemini's spoken word vocal, jazzy keys and spacey synth sounds rise above loose-limbed deep house beats and wiggly TB-303 lines, before Birdee drops a genuinely joyous, organic-sounding disco-house take on 1991 classic 'Do What You Feel' (now credited to Joey Montenegro, rather than his now retired Joey Negro alias). Elsewhere, Lee's own rework of Lakeshore Commission's Bluey collaboration 'In The Light' is a smooth, soulful, string-drenched delight and the veteran producer's 'Destination Boogie' tweak of Destiny II's 'Play To Win' is a revivalist '80s electrofunk delight.

Review: The latest in the 'Superfunkanova' series hears Woody Bianchi unearth little-heard-before rarities in the genre, with two rather naive and lo-fi but ultimately delightful songs peeking through the fold. The deep-friend strings of 'Calif Curl Calif Gurl' by the Together Band helms up the A-side, while the inflammable, instrumental soul mass that is 'Firebolts Hustle' by The Firebolts comes hits us like a Flaming Moe on the B.

Review: Z Recordings chief Dave Lee has teamed up on this one with Omar, a prolific multi-instrumentalist who was awarded an MBE in 2012 for services to music. The result is 'Starlight', a serving of emotive soul funk with a nod to legend Stevie Wonder. Over on the flip, we have the late night boogie-down vibe of Destiny II's 'I'm Here For This' featuring Aria Lyric's powerful vocal delivery, underpinned by an uplifting arrangement that has summertime vibes abound. A new project by Lee, it debuted earlier this year with the excellent 'Play 2 Win'

Review: Chris Korda's latest EP, we are reliable informed, "interrogates the myth of human superiority and the barbarism that flows from it." A high faulting concept for sure, but that doesn't mean this music isn't sure to bang on the dance floor even for those who haven't heard the backstory. The opener has a brilliantly odd monologue over a squelchy bassline and edgy technoid beats. 'K35' then paid thumping deep house drums with winky and off-grid chord full of colour. 'Lunch Break' is a broken jungle rhythm and 'SAZ' rounds out with glowing retro-future melodies and more thumping deep house grooves. A truly fresh sound for sure.

Review: Yuku come correct with this special blue vinyl remix 12". Two vibes per side, both Traka and Granul go under the knife. On one side we have Serbian crew Traka under scrutiny as Commodo flips 'Yosai' into a menacing slab of tension while Muqata takes the Killa P-fronted 'Start Taking Note' into a brutalist sonic rainbow. Flip for two remixes of Turkish maverick Granul; Jtamul turns two-step inside out with stacks of eerie space on 'Deformity' while Iskeletor turns 'Interconnected' into the twisted, halftime heaver of your dreams. Stark sermons!

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Review: Le Motel, le hotel, les Holiday Inns. Wherever you choose to stay after your raving trip, be sure to pack this wonderful collection from the innovative Belgian craftsman Le Motel. Delivered by the ever-impressive Yuku collective, the whole EP flexes the spectrum in terms of tempos and influences. From the deep ploughman techno swing of 'Raving Crew' to the electroid funk and percussive fire of 'Helix' via the cumbia-inspired and turns of the minimal head-bender '429 Too Many Requests', this is an exceptional journey into the more esoteric side of breaks and club music. Essential.

Review: Portuguese electronic artist Pedro Goya lends his latest and best efforts to French label YoY - a sublabel of the Yoyaku family - for a textured sway through dreamy minimal house and elegant acid progressions. Much like picking flowers, the EP puts across the feeling of being 'in the zone', with the tracks seeming to flow seamlessly through similar keys and timbres, all while nailing a raw, real, even ancient feel.

Review: The music that makes up Harmony of Difference, Kamasi Washington's first EP of note since the release of acclaimed 2015 album The Epic, was premiered live as a "six-track movement" earlier this year. The "suite" - here stretched across both sides of an essential 12" - sees Washington continue to explore the idea of what it means to be black in America in the 21st century. Musically, the EP contains some of his smoothest and most laidback compositions yet, with all his musical collaborators being on fine form. The headline attraction is undoubtedly 14-minute flipside "The Truth", an almost operatic jazz epic full of swelling choral contributions, fizzing drum solos, rising horns and, of course, plenty of Washington's distinctive saxophone.

Review: The latest single from Jamie Smith's 2015 album In Colour, featuring The xx bandmate Romy Madley Croft, gets the remix treatment from a pretty stellar cast. Starting off, Hivern Discs boss John Talabot gets on board with his "Loud Synths Reconstruction" which definitely lives up to its name on this driving proggy take on the track. Ed Russell aka West Country bass techno auteur Tessela steps up and delivers a typically thumping and funked up rendition which is a real highlight on here. On the flip, Cologne's Barnt delivers yet another dark journey through the cosmic hole and the legendary Matthew Herbert offers us his take; sublime deep house and yet again; sampling everything but the kitchen sink!

Review: Indica Dubs and Kai Dub link up here for their second collaboration, which is the first release of the year for the label. It features the full flavour and futuristic stepper that is 'Elevation Dub', complete with wooden hits and Digital pads, warrior chords and a nice sleek aesthetic. 'Higher Dub' then flip sit into a more heady affair with plenty of mad studio effects and endless reverb, floating toms and sizzled pads. These triumphant tunes are primed and ready for big plays on huge sound systems.

Review: Daniela Lalita grew up in an apartment in Peru with her mother and grandmother. That apartment gives its name to her debut EP, Trececerotres, which is an exploration of experimental electronic music rooted in magic, healing and ritual. Lalita's vocals feature throughout, and she first came to realise their power when she learned to do different voices for TV commercials as her first job. They mesh with distorted drums and Buchla synth to make for off-scale tracks where rhythm is implied, culture is explored and moods range from bleak and intense to more heartfelt and assured.

Review: "Dubb Me Some'tin Fresh" first appeared on wax way back in 2001, as part of Halo, Hipp-E and Tony's first outing for YoshiToshi under the 6400 Crew alias. It remains one of their strongest cuts; a dark, sweaty and trippy fusion of tribal drums, acid bass and dub-house sensibilities. This reissue contains the freshly re-mastered original version, plus a trio of tasty new reworks. Deep Dish man Sharam steps up first, emphasizing the dub-influenced elements on a big room version that strips back the original's dense tribal drums without sacrificing any energy. In contrast, Sinisa Tamamovic's remix is loose and more tribal-minded, while Hector opts for more acid lines and heavier sub-bass on his big room-friendly interpretation.

Review: American Anthony Nicholson is one of the underground's most noxiously outspoken characters, especially during his days with the Dope Jams record store where he would right diss notes on 12"s and LPs he didn't like. Thankfully his own work is up to scratch and now the veteran becomes part of the Yoruba family. 'Nucleus Scene1' is his contribution - a signature deep house cut laced with real soul, jazzy chords and life-affirming melodies in a vibrant arrangement. The Yoruba Soul Mix gets even more soulful and mind-expanding with its funky guitar riffs and then Cee ElAssaad brings the Afro house vibes with some extra piano. Great stuff.

Review: Johnny Malek is a Detroit-based fashion designer-turned-producer who makes a strident arrival on Yoruba with this EP of gospel-infused deep house. It's a potent approach which chimes perfectly with Osunlade's esteemed label, reportedly prefacing a larger project to come. There is an abundance of Afro house drums on 'I Promise', an anthem in the making with a vocal which will lodge itself in the hearts and minds of any assembled throng it's faced with. 'Venus Rising' maintains the vibe, confirming Malek's arrival as an artist to keep tabs on in the new wave of deep house artists.

Review: Yoruba has always done tech house with a difference - a genuine sense of spiritually and Afro groove permeates the music it put out. A prime example of that is this new collaboration between Oveous and Don Kamares. The former lays down spoke-sung lyrics that muse son legacy and being true to yourself. They're stream of conscious and never stop as the production from Kamares shines. It's a deep house cut with lithe drums and shiny synths that move about the mix and grow in stature. If you prefer to keep it more striped back, a flip-side instrumental will do the trick.

Review: The Yore label has got some lush jazzy house delights on its hands here thanks to Shaka, who steps up to the plate with Days Of Life. The EP opens with 'Cosmic Bossa' which has golden sustained chords and Latin stuffing rhythms with a worldly vocal bringing the heat up top. 'Days Of Life' has a rich feel-good vibe with rousing horns and lots of happy pianos all stitched into another steamy and organ-laced deep house beat. Last of all is 'Our Instinct,' a playful US garage-style cut with skip in the drums and more serious synth craft full of joy.

Review: Having appeared on Yore in mixed by Patrice Scott and The Memory Foundation format on a rather dashing 7" release earlier this year, label boss Andy Vaz offers up his first original Yore material of the year with the equally well presented Bicycle Love 12". Unique handmade red paint bicycle wheels patterns on the front record sleeve - Each a unique individual piece, sleeve backside handstamped, vinyl comes as transparent light rose transparent coloured vinyl. Music-wise, both the original version of "Bicycle Love" and the two accompanying remixes from Brad P and Damon Lamar slot neatly into the Yore aesthetic - indeed Vaz is on wonderfully sweet and Detroit influenced form here!

Review: Deep house is the perfect crossover genre for anyone looking for a danceable blend of jazz and trance, and we think Irishman Glenn Davis' music is at the pinnacle of this fusion. On his new EP 'Better Daze', nighttime soundscapes and high-street sonic smokes are washed out by extreme reverbs and infinity-mirror echos. The 4-tracker has as much Blade Runner as it does Soul Connection in its palette; 'Your Time' swaps out sax for synth, while bongo boings on, and vibraphone ('Dance') and even balearized speed garage ('Inner Monologue') sticks it to the man of the house.

Review: Yore Records have past form in sneaking out Detroit-rooted gear from legends masquerading under pseudonyms - rumours abounded around the one-shot Trackleton release back in 2009. Now here comes P0lyrhythm with a minimal amount of background information and some highly refined machine soul referencing the origins of techno in its title. It's either an extremely authentic-sounding tribute or a sneaky gift from a pioneer, who knows for sure, and more to the point who cares? It's magical techno with pure uplift in its bones, offering the kind of restorative approach which is so desperately needed when so much club music tilts towards annihilation. Highly recommended for all lovers of the original techno sound.

Review: Soulful acid house flavours with a hint of dub techno sauce from Sebastian Gummersbach here, debuting for Yore Records. It's a neat addition to the Andy Vaz-run label, out from which many similar releases have emerged, yet none quite so unique. The charming FM knocks on 'Calming Solitude' are enough to calm our nerves to the extent of passing up the CBD oil, while the EP highlight 'Eden' dips its toes into gushing emotion, its sunset pads tempering an otherwise raw and scratchy 909 backing. An overall neat emoter-stonker in the mode of acid.

Review: Yore is a low key but always worth checking label which has got together one of its best releases in some time here. P0lyrhythm is the artist behind it and the title, 'Motor City Dreams' gives you an idea of what to expect inside - Detroit-style techno with retro-future synth work. Opener '313 Hazy Days' is just that - an acidic mix of swirling pads and driving techno drums full of hi-tek soul. 'Shimmering Lights' has old school percussive sounds and singing synth patterns that light up the deeper drums and then the title cut takes off to the stars on wispy leads and sleek beats. 'Ray Eyes' completes this most tasteful of deep techno EPs.

Review: With a dizzying array of titles to his name - from multi-instrumentalist, to writer, to arranger, and producer - Kaidi Tatham is one of the UK's finest members of the nu-jazz and soulful dance music scene. 'It Never Stops' is his latest jazz-infused deep house EP, marking his first appearance on the iconic Cologne-based label, Yore. Following stand-out releases from Andy Vaz and Kez YM, this is another glistening addition to the label's catalogue. Tatham's delicate arrangement of light-footed grooves accompanied by melodies imbued with warmth grants this release suitability for both the cosy environs of home listening as well as dancefloors. Part of the label's highly sought after "limited" range, this is a release you'll want to get your hands on ASAP.

Review: Destination Japan: Metricmania pays homage to the motherland with this EP named after one of the country's biggest national parks. As with previous explorations, the vibes are far-reaching, star-gazing and steeped in jazzy motifs. Highlights include the woozy vapour trails and loose off-grid breaks of the title track 'Daisetsuzan', the Detroitian marching jam '33.a- Vero' and the tightly-coiled spring energy and jittering drums of 'Www.arai'.