Review: Fourth part of the compilation celebrating the tenth anniversary of the Milanese record shop. This collection is entirely composed of previously unreleased music, exclusively produced for the occasion by many artists of great relevance in the worldwide music scene, who supported the store over the last ten years.
This EP features Ellen Allien, Kreggo, Timeslip89, Itinerant Dubs and Heith.
Review: A repress of Innershades & Betonkust's 2018 new beat sensation 'Forever In Boccaccio!' has long been requested by hardcore record collectors. And now it has become available and has been fully remastered and housed in a new sleeve design, limited to just 300 copies. It was first made, according to the two being it, in January 2017 "under grey Belgian skies," when they had been consuming lots of acid and new beat, which of course shows. The title cut is brilliantly dark and gothic but is backlit by haunting vocal harmonies and underpinned by a menacing bassline. The three other cuts explore similar moods and grooves with great authenticity.
Review: Third part of the compilation celebrating the tenth anniversary of the Milanese record shop. This collection is entirely composed of previously unreleased music, exclusively produced for the occasion by many artists of great relevance in the worldwide music scene, who supported the store over the last ten years. The artists who produced the music for this compilation are Egyptian Lover, Ellen Allien, Thomas Brinkmann, Neil Landstrumm, JD Twitch, Matias Aguayo, San Proper, Tolouse Low Trax, Jay Glass Dubs, Dj Marcelle, Jorge Velez, Tamburi Neri, Fabrizio Mammarella, Heith, Itinerant Dubs, Timeslip89, Kreggo and Intersezioni Ensemble. The entire work is composed of 4 x 12", plus a bonus EP.
Review: Two techno knights in shining armour, Joseph Capriati and Indira Paganotto, rise to a collaborative challenge on their latest split vinyl single. Brought to their resident Artcore Records, 'Ananda' and 'Mantra' are spiritually intoned yet no less hard psy-tech towerers. Paganotto is said to have laid down the exotic vocal chops on 'Ananda' directly and the final product hears these laced through a blossoming, emu-synth rising action and a stuttering pre-drop. Perfect fits for the larger club or festival stage, these twin tracks work the careful balance of grave and utopian sound.
Review: Four fresh new ones from the Molekul crew in Paris. The title 'Heavy Rotations' plays on the affective "heaviness" of toting records around the world and DJing them at raves; it's no wonder they say that where there is repetition, as in techno, there is unfinished business (in this context, the word 'rave' is no coincidence either). Needless psychoanalytic accounts of repetitive beats aside, the tools on this heavy-set, heavyweight, heavy-hitting 12" record - which merge the heavy-metallic industrial works of Beau Didier, Isaiah, and Flits - are hard, yet gut-wrenching enough to loosen even the tightest of screws. The tracks therein are speedier even than a mighty Mitre saw, by which the hardest of woods are split into two; and you can be sure that, like a saw, you'll soon see and hear these cuts on heavier rotation too.
Review: The cultured ESHU label has pulled other some more tasteful talents for this four track 'Conrexture' EP. It opens up with Julien Fuentes's 'Jah Justice' (Klaridub Ambient mix) which is a nice atmospheric opener with some conscious dub mutterings and sci-fi pads. Jocelyn & Yasin Engwer then kick on with some watery, sub-aquatic minimal dub tech bliss in the form of 'Sticks & Stones', Voal gets even more dark and dirty with some grubby dub basslines on 'Eight Ball' and Ivano Tetelepta/Christine Benz layer up watery droplets, melodic whistles, static electricity and rubbery rhythms to mind-melting perfection on 'Supreme.'
The Future Sound Of London - "Stolen Documents" (Jazz dub) (5:17)
Smart Systems - "Zip Code" (Stress Ball mix) (5:15)
The Future Sound Of London - "Innate" (W O W mix) (4:42)
Indo Tribe - "I've Become What You Were" (Insider mix) (4:21)
Review: The influential 90s IDM and techno act Future Sound of London continues to delve into their early career with the reissue of The Pulse EP Vol 2, originally released in 1991. This EP exemplifies the early techno sound, blending rave elements with the more intelligent and linear side of electronic dance music. Side-1 kicks off with 'Stolen Documents' (Jazz dub) by The Future Sound of London, a track that perfectly melds jazzy undertones with dub influences, creating a sophisticated and immersive experience. Following this is Smart Systems' 'Zip Code' (Stress Ball mix), a piece that balances high-energy beats with a stress-relieving ambiance. Side-2 begins with 'Innate' (W O W mix) by The Future Sound of London, a track that delves into deeper, more atmospheric realms, showcasing the group's innovative approach to soundscaping. Indo Tribe's 'I've Become What You Were' (Insider mix) closes the EP, with a pulsating techno rhythm that encapsulates the essence of the early '90s rave scene. Before their signature chill out sound was made, FSOL his some of their highest notes here with these early EPs.
Review: Shout out to Greek powerhouse Kinesthetik Recordings for making it all the way to a half a century of releases there. They celebrate in the best way they know - with more tranced-out sounds from artists in their orbit. Giorgio & Andreas open things up with 'Nice One' and its thudding tech drums and cosmic synth lines. Diskinesia gets much more raw and moody with the edgy drums of 'Back & Forth' and Interphase then drops a pair of industrial tech thumpers. Giorgio & Andreas reappear with a raw, roughshod and deep groove and Marcelino Sanchez's 'Motive One' offers dub techno to close.
Review: Released just days after their Reflections tour, I Jordan and Sherelle link with club institution Fabric and their new label Fabric Originals. Both artists currently working on inspiring stratospheric levels, their energy is captured here across the two unique tracks. I Jordan rinse us up and down the highways and byways of the UK with their high impact 'M1 / M3' while Sherelle goes full-on techno with 'Getoutofmymind'. Intoxicating stuff!
Jungian Archetype - "Pursuit Of The Blue Car (RIP)" (5:28)
I-F - "Shadow Of The Clown" (7:28)
I-F - "Casablanca Sunrise" (7:39)
Jungian Archetype - "Who Are You?! (Theme From Paranoid Stranger)" (7:48)
Review: Released back in 1996, Test Pilot Vol 1 has remained a highlight of the Viewlexx label ever since and has been one of those records that command regular calls for a repress. Kudos to I-F then for finally heeding these shouts and presenting a remastered edition for the masses. For the uninitiated, this 12" features classic Hague cuts from I-F and Jungian Archetype, another alias of the Viewlexx boss, with all four perfect for introducing a sense of bedlam to the dancehall. "Who Are You...?! (Theme From Paranoid Stranger)" in particular will bend many an unprepared mind. If you don't own an original edition, grip this remastered version and hold tight for a brand new second volume of Test Pilot featuring Gesloten Cirkel and Roberto Auser!
Floating Against Time (Wata Igarashi Shimmering mix) (5:45)
Ceremony Of The Dead (Michael Mayer mix) (7:01)
Abyss II X Darkness (Philipp Stoffel Fusion mix) (4:57)
Review: Known for his meticulous sound design and trippy, psychedelic approach, the Japanese producer gets key tracks from his 2023 Agartha album remixed with contributions from Kompakt veteran Michael Mayer and rising talent Philipp Stoffel. Opening the selection, 'Agartha (Wata Igarashi Sorcery Acid Mix)' plunges into heavy analog territory, channeling old-school acid trance with pulsing basslines and swirling synth layers. It's a trip that maintains a relentless and hypnotic momentum. In contrast, 'Floating Against Time (Wata Igarashi Shimmering Mix)' leans into atmospheric techno, unfolding with a celestial, meditative quality. The track's ethereal pads and evolving textures create a sense of weightlessness, staying true to Igarashi's deep, transportive aesthetic. Michael Mayer steps in with his version of 'Ceremony of the Dead', infusing it with an upbeat vintage techno feel. His remix brims with Kompakt's signature warmth, blending ravey elements with a steady, driving groove. Closing the set, 'Abyss II X Darkness (Philipp Stoffel Fusion Mix)' picks up the pace with rolling basslines and dubby, melodic layers. Stoffel's take is fast and fluid, balancing deep, introspective elements with club-ready energy. A refined touch for floor or sofa alike.
Review: Ignez's latest release, SMV 010, is a four-track exploration of techno that takes listeners on an extraordinary journey. This offering from Somov showcases Ignez's ability to craft compelling and distinctive sounds within the genre. Side-1 opens with 'Wounded Healer,' which features a strong beat and addictive elements that mesh perfectly with the groove. The track's tribal and darker undertones set a powerful tone. Next is 'Tavisupali,' a slightly demented and ominous builder that adds heavy movement and depth to the record. Flipping to Side-2, 'Ascend' delivers an epic groove, maintaining the momentum with its addictive rhythms. Finally, 'Lightworker' brings a haunting and eerie atmosphere, with melodic and unique strings that elevate the track to a new level. This is a very inventive approach and skillful execution. The seamless blend of dark, tribal, and melodic elements work great together.
Review: WSNWG visits the ongoing musical love affair between label head Rodhad and upcoming artist Ignez here. The assured studio wizards serve up some hefty techno that is rooted in rolling, drum-led funk and coloured with some edgy and emotive synth work. These four V'ermillion' tunes were recorded in February 2022 during a marathon week of studio sessions and after this first part there will be a second EP to follow it up later in the year. They are bulky cuts with rumbling low ends and sufficient details up top to keep the mind locked.
Review: Whilst remix EPs are by no means the most original of concepts, French label Desire should be applauded for their set of Ike Yard Remix EPs due to the calibre of those involved. Previous editions have seen contributions from Regis, Monoton, Tropic of Cancer and former Ike Yard synth player Fred Szymanski and this third and final EP sees the label turn to a younger generation with equally compelling results. Diagonal boss Powell might be new to remixes (this is only his second after reconstructing Silent Servant for Jealous God) but he's evidently willing and capable to dissect the source and reassemble in his own style. Put simply, little of "Half A God" remains here but Powell's remix will resonate immediately with anyone that consumed his original work last year. Elsewhere The KVB essentially throw down a cover version of "Cherish 8" whilst Vessel's accompanying mix of the same track should sound deafening on a big system and much the same can be said about Bandshell's refix of "NCR".
Review: Remixes of iconic New York no wave act Ike Yard by Regis and Konrad Becker's Monoton project feature on this joint release from Blackest Ever Black and Desire. Technically a complementary release to Desire's soon to drop reissue of Ike Yard's eponymous debut set from 1982, this 12" has the Downwards boss and Becker tackling tracks from that album. Led by Stuart Argabright, Ike Yard's brand of avant garde electro minimalism is not something you can easily digest, but both remixes here work as fine complements to the source material. Regis' take on "Loss" is a pattering, skeletal affair that develops ripples of uneasy analogue pulses without ever forgoing Ike Yard's paranoia inducing intentions, while Becker's Monoton Dub take on "NCR" is equally respectful, if much more foreboding in execution.
Review: Japanese techno producer Toru Ikemoto returns with a kicking new EP on Conundrum Records. Ikemoto has an uncompromising style which finds him boil things down to the bare essentials and dive deep into dark, hypnotic then worlds with hey low ends and a real sense of urgency. His three new jams here all foment that signature style, from the pulsing bass throb of 'Don't Play 171' to the more percussive loops of 'Don't Play 162.' 'Don't Play 170' is pure heady and linear techno bliss and a remix from Lindsey Herbert shuts down with some sub-aquatic rhythms.
There Was A Bird (Jonas Kopp Frequency mix) (5:46)
Rooibos (5:13)
Rooibos (Not A Headliner remix) (5:05)
Review: We head to Madrid for this one, a new label founded by Unkle Fon and co-owned by Javier Gantz. It kicks off with a rather monstrous techno offering from Ill Communication - the collaborative name given to the label founders' production work - with remixes by Not A Headliner and Jonas Kopp. 'There Was A Bird' is forted techno with rusty metal textures, clanging industrial hits and unrelenting drums. Kopp's Frequency mix is more distilled but no less potent. 'Rooibos' then has fluttering synths that suspend you above the dance floor while the white noise bristles over linear drums. The Not A Headliner remix is twisted, dubbed-out techno for the peak time.
Review: Plastik People are back with more of that garage house goodness, celebrating the uplifting sound of Alfredo Norese with Aquilla Fearon's gorgeous vocals and the joyous vibes of Matteo Esposito. Marc Cotterell really makes the track sing with his lead mix, leaning in on the emotive qualities in the music while retaining a certain depth and groove. The original meanwhile comes on strong like a crossover soul hit in the making, and then Shaka offers up a subtly club-aligned edit which keeps the source material thoroughly intact. Groove Boys complete the set with a more jacked up version which thumps in the low end for when you want to make sure the place is jumping.
Review: EC Underground is back with more inquisitors of low-end heavy sounds on Bass Scene Investigation vol 1 and again digs deep into the worlds of electro, techno, breakbeat and IDM. The compilation kicks off with the skittish percussive patterns of Illektrolab's 'Making Heads Dip', then heads into moody ground with ADJ, Pablo Funk brings some menacing synth work and Errorbeauty gets all weird and trippy with some mad electronics. Francois Dillinger offers a dystopian electro sound full of irresistibly jacked-up drums. A fine investigation indeed.
Asymmetric Information (Homemade Weapons remix) (6:30)
Don't Crush The Acid (Viels remix) (6:43)
Don't Crush The Acid (Fred P remix) (6:28)
Inner Sunset (Soramimi & Rondec remix) (4:36)
Review: Just before it hits the double digits milestone, Dusk Notes revisit earlier suns with a new imagery remix EP. 'Asymmetric Information' (Homemade Weapons remix) opens up with a jungle techno assault that comes on in waves of irresistible physicality, and 'Don't Crush The Acid' (Viels remix) then gets deeper and darker and more paired back. 'Don't Crush The Acid' (Fred P remix) is one of the New York don's famously heady, spiritual and jazz inflected works and 'Inner Sunset' (Soramimi & Rondec remix) then slows it down to a dubby mutant crawl.
Review: Imogen's 'Metanoia' on Tresor is a powerful six-track release that pushes boundaries within the techno sphere. Side-1 begins with 'The Way She Moves,' a hard-hitting, crunchy track that brings intense, aggressive energy to the table. The industrial-tinged 'Summer Kiss' follows, driven by an uptempo tribal rhythm, while 'Tired Bones' brings a deeper grooveiclassic Tresor with its wicked, pulsating proper techno vibe. Side-2 ramps things up with 'Growing In The Dark', a relentless, alien-sounding cut with sharp percussion that drives the energy to fever pitch. 'Breathe Again' shifts gears, incorporating breakbeats and a melodic layer with a touch of Belgian doom, adding a moody edge. The EP closes on 'DX Melancholyflower', an ambient and mysterious ender that feels stark and airy, leaving the listener in a reflective state. 'Metanoia' is a fierce, dynamic EP that features Imogen's ability to blend intensity and atmosphere, making it a thrilling listen for techno enthusiasts. Not for the faint of heart!
Indo Tribe - "Bring In The Pulse" (MFK mix) (5:10)
Indo Tribe - "In The Mind Of A Child" (First Born mix) (5:04)
The Future Sound Of London - "Hardhead" (Frothin' At The Mouth mix) (6:06)
The Future Sound Of London - "Pulse State" (831 AM mix) (7:20)
Review: Jumpin' & Pumpin' looks back into the seminal archives of The Future Sound of London here to reissue their fantastic The Pulse EP from 2008 which also featured tunes from Manchester pair Indo Tribe. It is they who start with 'Bring In The Pulse' which features some Happy Mondays hallelujahs, mad rave whistles and bristling electronic breaks. 'In The Mind Of A Child' (First Born mix) is then a bouncy techno cut with more visceral synth and acid lines and The Future Sound Of London kick off the flipside with 'Hardhead' (Frothin' At The Mouth mix) which is an assault of breaks, congas, whistles and rave signifiers. 'Pulse State' (831 AM mix) is that perfect tune to zone out to on a late night drive on the motorway.
Review: Ricardo Rodrigues had seemingly shelved his Industrialyzer for a number of years but then came back with a bang in 2017. Since then there have been a couple of new releases and this latest one is another high-impact affair on Rekids. His tackle always sells out because it is robust and well-designed and an absolute dead cert to destroy the club. This one is devastatingly simple but effective - hammering drums, deeply rooted bass rumbles and tight, busy melodies patterns that loop and evolve up top. As well as a nice ambient version from Radio Slave, the label head also offers up a deep and dynamic techno rework full of dub swing.
Review: As well as Model 500, Cybotron and his own name, Juan Atkins has a mighty fine back catalogue as Infiniti. It's where the Detroit techno pioneer's spaciest hi-tech soul cuts reside, which is especially evident on the classic 'Game One'. Originally released in 1994 on Metroplex, it's now getting the remix treatment via German label Kontakt, leading in with an outstanding version from Dutch legend Steve Rachmad who creates a supremely bouncy, dreamy version that speaks to sunnier days. Santiago Salazar steps up on the flip with two contrasting versions, from the cosmically-charged 4/4 funk of his straight-up remake to the deeper shades of the 'Sci-fi Xicano' remix under his S2 alias.
Review: Juan Atkins released some of the funkiest, dreamiest techno of his imperious career as Infiniti. a collaboration with Orlando Voorn,. 'Game One' originally came out on Metroplex in 1994 and it's since become an essential part of the Detroit techno canon. On this release for Kontakt we're treated to some visionary remixes of the track from trusted experts, leading in with Steve Rachmad's pumped up, springy rendition on the A-side. It's a version which upholds the machine soul sensibility of the original, paying all due respect to the blueprint Atkins laid down as a Detroit techno pioneer. On the flip we get treated to two contrasting versions from Santiago Salazar, with his first take heading into interstellar electro territory before casting adrift on the deep house-tinted 'Sci-Fi Xicano Remix'.
Review: The Fourier Transform label outlay an arresting sonic journey on their debut release, bringing together breakbeat, ambient IDM, ambient techno, and prog house under a single banner. Opening with Inkipak's 'Betwixt', we're met with sonorous low-mid square waves and machine-gun-fire breaks, recalling the breathtaking, verging on apocalyptic expanse of a warehouse rave turned laser light show turned warzone. We break from this warring weir with 'Omnicron Acid' and 'City Of Tomorrow' by Gimmik and Brian Kage respectively, which lowers the intensity and sonic flow via spacious atmospheres and dudding percussive pops. Finally, the perfect fusion of the former two moods is achieved on 'Corrosive Tongue', the lead synth on which sounds like just that.
Review: Innellea returns to Afterlife with an instalment from his ambitious live project, Five Phases. 'Forced Adaptation' growls with ominous venom. Midway through, we encounter a neon-tinged breakdown designed to ignite the dancefloor. 'Reflected Wisdom' has a little more urgency and jaunty energy, Innellea clearly bringing the electrified funk. Five Phases is a series of releases and an upcoming extended live set journey, taking the audience in five phases from birth to death. From light to light in an audiovisual reflection of life: this EP represents its third and fourth phase.
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