Tags: Chicago House

Review: An integral figure on the Motor City scene for the best part of two decades, Specter has always been a particularly prolific producer. Built To Last - appearing on Theo Parrish's significant Sound Signature label - is his first album-length excursion. It offers an expansive summary of his inspirations and influences - many will notice subtle nods towards local deep house, techno and electro heroes, as well as more experimental synthesizer music, off-kilter electronic jazz-funk, deep space dub and eyeliner-clad early '80s synth-wave - while also showcasing a trademark sound that's every bit as dusty, warm, loose and lo-fi as his lauded Detroit peers.

Review: Rebirth kicks off its 2024 with a remix EP that serves as "a tribute to the Brescian music scene in its many facets and declinations." The full original project is a complete 12-track album that brings together many different sounds, scenes and generations, with the best bits now assembled on this new 12". The revered deep house master Fred P opens up with some texture spiritual synth depths, K-Lone brings some nice house swing to his version of 'Paline' and edit maestro Rahsaan also keeps it paired back and late night on his soulful take on 'Scent Of An Old Life'. A great reimagining of some moving musical adventures, then.

Review: Hi Scores and Crammed Discs present SSR Records: In Retrospect, a 2LP compilation of remastered tracks from the Brussels based label that explored house, acid, rave, trance and more between 1988 and 2002. The album features pioneers such as Move D, Nu Era, Gemini, Bjorn Torske, Glenn Underground and Matthew Herbert. The gatefold sleeve includes liner notes on the history of SSR Records and the selected tracks. SSR Records: In Retrospect celebrates the visionary legacy of a label that was far ahead of its time.