Fokuz Recordings Holland Schallplatten & CDs

Review: We've all looked skyward for inspiration at some point and now it's the turn of Pittsburgh-based d&b producer Alpha Rhythm. Michael Gorman, to use his real name, deals in the kind of introspective, ethereal rollers that suit rainy day reflection as much as the deeper part of a dance, and he applies that style to the celestial bodies of our solar system to great effect. There are notable vocal spots from Leo Wood, Natus and Gemma Rose which only add to the heavy load of feels pouring out of this expansive long player dropping on Fokuz.

Review: Still riding high off the success of their album with Charlotte Haining back in May, BCEE now come back strong with a powerful EP on Dutch label Fokuz Recordings. It's 'Crystal' that opens in thoughtful fashion with bold bass notes and a crisp breakbeat that meanders as you get lost in a day dream. There's a more raw energy to 'Poodle Dub', while playful horns bring some colour. You head will be amongst the clouds as the lush chords of 'Love Drunk' are draped over a rolling break and airy vocals soar up top. 'Stitched Up' closes out with more crisp beats, and this time tumbling melodies that fall like rain.

Review: Rolling since the mid 90s and showing no signs of slowing, Swedish D&B maestro Seba bounces straight from his Ingaro LP on Secret Operations to deliver this retrospective of highly sought after classics on Fokuz. Seba originally released 'Dangerous Days' in 2009 backed by his remix of Polar's 'Hi Voltage', and both cuts of dreamy drum funk make a welcome return here, with the title track in particular being an immersive slice of ambient D&B to write home about. 'Metropolaris' and 'A Wonderful World' both came out a little further back in 2003, but they equally complement the other tracks with their soft-shaped synth tones and crisp, intricate beats.