Fat Records presents the next single in the lead up to Baobinga & I.D.’s eagerly anticipated debut album ‘Big Monster’. Out late October, ‘Jewelz’ marks up yet another venture into new stylistic ground for Baobinga & I.D. as they continue to showcase their ability to produce a range of musical styles spanning hip hop, house, breaks and techno (watch out for future hip hop cuts featuring the vocal talents of Virus Syndicate).
With the shockwaves still being felt from Logistics’ award winning debut album 'Now More Than Ever', 12 months have flown by for drum'n'bass' hottest property. Logistics has regenerated and now it’s time to set off a firework selection pack of an EP. Out early November, 'Wide Lens' kicks things off with a lush synth build up warming it up nicely until bang you are into a bassline straight out of murksville. Switching things up 'Cold World' burns white hot with half time pressure that will turn heads, crossing over into the dubstep domain nicely. With lasers set to stun 'Glitch' is a jaw dropping piece of future funk with glitchy bitcrushed synths and some heavyweight reese bass pressure jostling for attention. The awesome foursome is rounded off in spectacular fashion with the filtered cyber stomp of 'Spotlight'.
Early November we see Calibre's debut single on Shy FX’ Digital Soundboy label and both tracks are up the top of his recent output. ‘Thoughtless’ is a melodic roller with dreamlike strings, double bass and solid breaks championed by the likes of LTJ Bukem, whilst the B-side ‘Trip It’ is more of an old skool break with abstract jazz overtones whose fans include DJ Hype.
Having just finished remix duties for the Stanton Warriors and a soundtrack for the eagerly anticipated skateboarding film ‘Xtremely Sorry’, Baron (real name Piers Bailey) steps up with one of the big tunes of the autumn entitled ‘Endless Summer’. Never mind about the summer ending, did it ever begin? Anyway this is a great track that featuring Ayah on vocals; the vibe is liquid but with a slightly harder edge to it making it playable across the board. On the flip we have Dr Agnostic with a more agressive approach with film score speech and great rave stabs.
Freerange are happy to welcome X-Press 2’s Diesel to the fold where he dons his Yellow Sox guise for this huge techno-infused deep house track entitled ‘Zig Zag’. Out early November, 'Zig Zag' is a finely crafted monster which will appeal equally to fans of Carl Craig as it will to Ame’s Stepping up to the remix plate is Roland Appel with intense synth sirens, mammoth chord stabs and rave breakdowns by the bucketload. Rounding things off nicely is a concise edit of the original for those preferring to cut to the chase.
Swedish electronic duo Plej are back in late October with their new single 'Safe Place', taken from their highly anticipated second album which is set for release in early 2008. The original version of ‘Safe Place’ is classic Plej – subtle yet satisfying that demands repeated listens and leaving you craving for more. On the B-side, Rekids’ Toby Tobias reworks ‘Safe Place’ into a dubbed-out cosmic disco trip and Exceptional’s very own and Hird’s younger brother Cloud (aka Alex Berg) confirms that he’s a name to firmly keep our eyes on.
Freeflow 45 (real name Dom Sweeten) is is warmly welcomed back to iBreaks Bass, the bass-heavy cousin to iBreaks and iBreaks Funk. Out late October, 'Substantial' is a real peak-time crowd pleaser with a squelching dutty ass bassline, bleepy electro flourishes, and old skool samples. Entity step up for remix duties adding skippy beats and another fat dollop of funk to proceedings with jazz flute and bongos.
Brixton Britschooler Adele is without a doubt one of the finest voices to emerge from this country in years, perhaps even decades. Her debut single ‘Hometown glory’, out on limited release on Jamie T’s Pacemaker label in late October, frames perfectly Adele’s husky soulful voice which soars above a beautiful, melancholy piano melody sounding uncannily like Yann Tiersen’s ‘Comptine d’un Autre Ete’ from quirky underground French film ‘Amelie’. Despite having been recommended to Rolling Stone magazine by Lily Allen, Adele’s debut could not be further from Lily if it tried. A sort of anti-LDN, ‘Hometown Glory’ is a gorgeous ode to the wonders of London and the unity of its vibrant community. Adele is a true shining gem, combining a voice that can’t help but enchant you, and a message we all need to hear.
Watch the video of Adele 'Hometown Glory' (Pacemaker/XL)
In a year of dance-music crossover success stories, when 1990s touchstones like Chemical Brothers and Daft Punk have returned to the public eye, techno kingpins Underworld have gone comparatively unmentioned. It's been five years since the UK duo of Karl Hyde and Rick Smith released their last album 'A Hundred Days Off', following the departure of Darren Emerson to pursue DJing full-time. 'Crocodile', the first single from upcoming fifth studio full-length 'Oblivion With Bells', makes a few updates but doesn't stray far from the trance-inducing formula that gave Underworld their 1996 "Trainspotting"-boosted dance anthem 'Born Slippy Nuxx'. It takes just a few seconds of gauzy synths for the kick drum to enter, followed by a minimal bass groove.
Watch the video of Underworld 'Crocodile' (Underworldlive.com)
With musical credentials that most producers would kill for, the organic breakbeat mastermind that is Ils (real name Illian Walker) really does not need an introduction! For his new album ‘Paranoid Prophets’, Ils has reshaped his sound once again, drawing influences from right across the musical board. 'Everybody Needs A Shrink' (the first single lifted from the album, due out in mid October on the Botchit & Scarper label) taps into the darkest corners of the mind, soaked with haunting vocals from regular collaborator Gina matched with manic drums and spine grabbing bass. On the flip the studio amps get warped up to plus eleven, for the acid guitar speaker buster ‘Burn Again’, digging the nails in skin deep. When this one drops you better pay close attention!
Recent newcomers Pieces Of Eight Records release their most promising record to date – the new single ‘Gimme What You Got’ by Black Daniel, the hot new electronic rock outfit that were once Medicine 8 . Out late September, head straight for the Alex Metric mix which is, in the words of DJ magazine "stunning... any club, any time, anywhere this will cause devastation". The 12” comes complete with the Original Mix and a Popular Tyre Mix.
Fedde Le Grand (of ‘Put Your Hands Up For Detroit’ and ‘The Creeps’ fame) has remixed Ida Corr’s original 'Let Me Think About It' into one of the most addictive and ingenious dance records for some time. The track’s monster hook is dominating dancefloors already, with Pete Tong simply calling it “one of the records of the year”. Released late September on the Data Records imprint, remixes come courtesy of Micky Slim, Eddie Theonick, Jason Herd, and Gregor Salto & Madskills. It’s a right bulging package.
Ed Solo & Skool Of Thought drop final album taster
Ed Solo & Skool Of Thought drop the final single before their eagerly anticipated album ’Random Acts Of Kindness’ is released on Against The Grain. Out late September, this single sees their versatility of style, edge them out of the breaks genre and into the worlds of drum'n'bass and dubstep. First up, ‘Always There’ is a liquid drum'n'bass reworking of the 1991 track of the same name by Incognito, which originally featured Jocelyn Brown. The label have cleared the samples and are proud to represent this classic record with some firing beats and rolling basslines strapped to its back. The flip ‘Sludge’has the type of bassline that needs sedating and locking up to protect the public. It’s heavy dubstep at its finest and begs repeat listens.
Unique 3 release their new album 'Invasive Signals' this autumn, and the wet our appetite they bring us a 12" sampler highlighting the album'skey tracks. Out late September, the single features brand new material with the all-out club track ‘Serial Killer’, the radio-friendly ‘Take This Love’, and the deep 90s electro-influenced ‘Shades Of Grey’.
Envision Recordings' latest offering comes from the mysterious Nuboy, who will be known to some of you under a different alias, an alias close to the heart of En:Vision. Out in mid September, this double-A single has some delectable grooves for you to get down to, although the a side probably wont be receiving much airplay, with its Peter Cook sampling lyrics, taunting the listener for buying the vinyl. Flip over for a fresh, funk fuelled vibe that is going to get the girls flustered for sure!
Hitting us where it hurts Atomic Hooligan return with a double-headed genre blurring electronic beast in early October, the first fruits of the forth coming album ’Sex, Drugs And Blah Blah Blah’. First up to get the party in fine style is ‘Papercuts’ featuring the instantly recognisable vocal tones of full time Hooligan Justine Berry who is laying down her distinctive style once again over a furious medley of light speed beats, acid drenched synths and speaker busting bass. On the flipside, ‘Weed’ takes on whole different path, slamming on the rocky breaks; its teasing intro leading us into a false sense of security it’s not long before we’re royally slapped around the chops with a pound of beat and a meaty slice of low end bass.
Following the release of their album ‘Re-Licked’ in June the Soul Of Man duo present their next single ‘Trouble’ featuring The Ragga Twins ijn mid September. Widely regarded to be a highlight track from the album, the boys once again prove why they are top of their game and that breaks isn’t about dark, hoody-wearing boys in basements. The original version is an undulating, bass riddled, disco dub workout, with the Ragga Twins toasting over rhythm guitar licks and a heavy bleep-laden riddim, a signature sound of the Soul Of Man. On the flipside, the one-to-watch on the scene this year Deepcut creates arguably one of his finest remixes to date, building on the original bassline and adding an electro edge to proceedings.
We welcome back DJ Fresh with his brand new single ‘Scream’. Out in early October on the Breakbeat Kaos label, 'Scream' has a deliberate contrast between quirky sounds and Hammond stabs against heinous breaks and nasty sub bass over a backdrop seemingly borrowed from 60’s horror movies and interesting subliminal whispers. The B-side ‘Steam’ sees Fresh team up with breakbeat dons Deekline & Wizard, slowing the tempo down to massive stomping breaks with the insanely catchy vocals of Ivory & Spyda.
Late September sees the second release on Vibez Recordings from the consistently popular Future Engineers, and it comes as a split 12" with newcomer Hobzee making for a quality 12". Future Engineers ‘Eden’ does not disappoint with the intricate and emotional content that allies deep bass and flying atmospherics to build into a movie-like epic rolled along on the world famous amen break. The flip ‘Revolutions’ by Hobzee is an eloquently sparse piece of music with intelligent programming to establish a mix of edgy yet elevating music made all the more impactful with the choice use of a Malcolm X sample.
Hitting the streets at the end of September is the highly acclaimed LP 'Rhythm & Bass' from Suv (of Reprazent/Full Cycle fame) and UK Soul legend Don-e. To compliment the full CD release, the Playside label is releasing a very special sampler 12": the first side features a Roughcut remix of ‘Get While’,which will only available on this 12". On the flip we have the original mix of ‘Make A Difference’, a track that is blowing up with the cooler DJ’s and even making it into selected R&B DJ’s sets.
The second part of Swell Session's 'Swell Communication' sampler is being released in late September as a nice little limited edition 10” for the true vinyl addicts, collectors and backroom DJ’s out there. Most will know Swell Session as Gothenburg based producer Andreas Saag, formerly known on Freerange as Stateless. 'A Heart To Cover For' is a collaboration with Domu and features the vocals of Andreas’ better half Elsa Esmeralda. It’s a kind of broken beat ballad if you will… On the flip you’ll find 'All Of Me' which was written with Mark De Clive-Lowe and features Anni Elif on vocals. This is a proper haunting late night torch song but with fat hip-hop beats.
Fresh from his success on iBreaks with his stupendous releases ‘Inc 2 Funk’, ‘Shrazinger’ and ‘Superfashion’, Spanish producer Digital Base (real name Andy Base) makes a welcome return in late September with a chunky double header. Acid house pianos and solid crunchy percussion are the order of the day on ‘White Line’; a perfect lesson in deep, rolling tech funk and sounding like nothing we’ve ever heard before! The B-side ‘Miriam’ that Andy Base has seen fit to dedicate this bass heavy tech funk workout to must enjoy being locked into the groove and posses a huge appreciation for bass.
In mid September we are treated with the third release from tech-funk pioneer Elite Force’s Used & Abused imprint, this time coming courtesy of hot new house producers Speculum (of Audiojack’s UFO and James Harcourt’s Twisted Frequency fame). Used & Abused have already carved out a niche as the essential label for all things tech-funk after just three releases, with an assortment of killer cuts built solely for the dancefloor.
High Contrast releases an inspired drum'n'bass re-interpretation of Iron Butterfly’s 17 minute rock odyssey 'In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida' in mid September, and sculpts it into his own twisted 21st century classic. Thrusting the instantly recognisable riff centre stage and supplying a heavyweight rhythm track to back it up, it’s pure dancefloor drama with a subtle hint of psych rock. On the flip, High Contrast brings us a hands-in-the-air epic ‘Forever And A Day’ which is reminiscent of his early anthem ‘Return Of Forever’, this time with MOBO winner Jnay on the vocals.
New artist Mistabishi makes a massive debut on Virus Recordings, selected by Optical as worthy of going on this classic label. Out in mid September, both tracks have dancefloor edge and serious production. ‘Pleasures’ has heavy electro rhythms, a sick bass and an outstanding vocal. The flip ‘Brunt’ is currently being caned in the clubs by the likes of Ed Rush & Optical, Andy C, DJ Hype, Grooverider, Noisia and many more.
Whilst their debut release 'I Like You' is still causing havoc on near by dancefloors, Shimon & Nixon are proving themselves a force to be reckoned with! Out in late August on the Finger Lickin label, 'White Noise' is more the instant club banger, taking a trip to the darker reaches. The omnipotent bassline pulsates its way into your brain and builds to a powerful breakdown then bashing its way back to the jugular. On the B-side, the burbling bass of 'Around The Edge' is destined for sun-soaked dancefloors and homegrown festival tents alike. Shimon's junglist influences are evident, minimal keys sit atop warped synth lines and atmospheric vocals.
The busy Krafty Kuts man unleashes the final single taken from his ‘Freakshow’ album, which won "Best Album" at this year's Breakspoll Awards. Out in mid September on the Against The Grain imprint, Krafty Kuts' own remix of ‘Freakshow’ is full of his trade mark funk with added beats, bass and clever edits, reloaded with dynamite and ready to blow. On the flip is ‘Bring Back The Funk’, the most requested song for vinyl release at Against The Grain, consequently the most downloaded song from the album. But that’s not all folks! Krafty Kuts has whipped a special treat with an exclusive set of DJ tools or all the DJs out there. The tools feature shouts from Dynamite MC, TC Iz, stabs, bass tones and loads more.
Last year was dominated by the release of Hyper's debut album 'We Control'. This year Hyper returned to the studio with an agenda in mind - that of producing some killer club and dancefloor gems, 'No Rockstars' being the first to see the light if day! Out in mid September on the Kilowatt imprint, Hyper delivered a club smash fusing punk rock, bass heavy beats and an electro hook suitable for the most innovative dancefloors. The remix is care of Australians Bass Clef. Taking the original killer electro hook and maxing it out amongst his own style of tuff, tight electro production, this mix will have them jumping from Hoxton to Sydney and back!
Nozl Recordings proudly present Lone Wolf’s debut on wax 'Rivers Of Shaolin EP', who is an artist who has been steadily defining his own space and distinctive sound in the dubstep arena. Out in late September, ‘The Plague’ begins with haunting echoes and creaking synths before a blistering drop featuring diseased guitar riffs, warping programmed melodies and metal vocals over a loping rhythm. ‘Slayed By Shadows’ expertly marries thrash drums and guitar with pulsing bass to creat a burst of pure dance floor terror. Finally, ‘Uproot’ is a dubbed out, reggae tinged sparse bass'n'drum workout that unravels into a dancefloor kiler.
If you have been on any discerning dancefloor in the past few years then there is every chance that you’ve been grabbed by ‘The Creeps’… Ever since it first appeared a few years ago, this infectious underground anthem has refused to go away. Now thanks to a brand new remix from Vandalism (aka Andy Van & Kam Denny) and an insanely catchy full vocal from Freaks vocalist Stella Attar, ‘The Creeps’ is stepping up to a new level and is certain to turn into something of a crossover monster when it’s released this summer! Data Records also have enlisted hot favourites Thomas Gold and Birmingham’s answer to Switch, Micky Slim to twist this club monster into a complete dancefloor frenzy. Also featured is the Steve Bug remix, perfect for any late night electro set.
Dope Skillz (real name Ben Pettit) makes a welcome return to his own Bingo Beats label in mid September with another pairing of dancefloor movers and shakers. Both, 'Suddenly' and the B-side 'Sparky' have been supported by some of the scene's finest DJs yet such as Nicky Blackmarket, Friction and Bassline Smith to name a few.
Another surprise from the Burrito kitchen with a tasty main course served up from Brancaccio & Aisher (of Bedrock, Credence, Renaissance fame and lately their wicked alter ego as the Suicide Sports Club). Out early September, the superb bouncy 'Freak Around' has a summery vibe and is a perfect slice of funky retro electro breaks. Of course you know Burrito were gonna make this an extra special platter with a bit of Koma & Bones seasoning! With their newfound unstoppable electro vibe and the original’s vocal, chuck in some phat dirty bass and their massive production values and you have a Spielberg-sized summer blockbuster.
Breakage (real name Jamie Boyle) has built a loyal and expanding fanbase over the last few years, with tracks on Reinforced, Bassbin and Planet Mu among his most important. Having linked up with Shy FX’s Digital Soundboy label earlier this year with the ‘Loved U So’ single, he now drops possibly the finest release of his career. Released in early September, ‘Clarendon’ is a challenging mid-tempo monster of a bassline tune, proving that drum'n'bass can be grundbreaking and still work on dancefloors big and small. ‘The Shroud’ on the other side is another exploration of bass science, deep and deadly with a nod to the Burial sound.
Phonat (real name Michele Balduzzi) makes a more than welcome return to the Splank label. Out late August, ‘The Quake’ has a completely fresh sound, not strictly breaks, house or electro, but possessing elements of all three genres. On the flip, Splank favourite Malente provides the remix action for this single, which takes a 4/4 route, as Malente keeps many of the original parts but re-arranges them into his original production style, and creates an absolute monster that goes into overdrive after the drop.
The Idjut Boys' Tirk Recordings label releases a 12” sampler for the forthcoming retrospective album charting the solo career of the legendary Chaz Jankel (of The Blockheads). Due out in early September, the release includes three of the more dancefloor friendly cuts from the album, including a re-edit exclusive to this 12”. Included from the album are “You’re My Occupation” – an early 80s boogie style track – and “Call Me” and upbeat disco number. “To Woo Lady Kong” was a hugely popular dub-reggae influenced version of Chaz’ platinum selling disco classic “Glad To Know You”. Also included is DJ D’s Ichiban re-edit of “Number One”, which takes elements of the original track and combines them with FX to create a more modern sounding, nu-disco style version.
Pier Bucci was unknown to the scene when Damian Lazarus first brought his unique Chilean sound to our shores. Since then many fellow countrymen have joined burst onto the scene including Luciano and Dandy Jack but none surpass the talents of Bucci. Crosstown Rebels have subsequently released his and their first artist album, ‘Familia’ in 2005 to huge critical acclaim and ‘Chiloé’ (due for release in late August) is the first single from his forthcoming album early 2008. This EP features four exclusive tracks from Pier Bucci. Essential listening for the club and on headphones – it's music to stimulate the mind and the body. The EP will appeal to lovers of underground, innovative electronic music, previous and future fans of the Chilean sound Pier is famous for and followers of the label.
Pitched to be the summer madness tune after being played no less than eight times at the "Space" opening party in Ibiza! CR2’s next No.1 Ibiza 2007 anthem as big as Fedde Le Grand ‘Put Your Hands Up For Detroit’, Federico Franchi's 'Cream' (due out in mid August) is characterized by an obsessive sound based on an innovative groove. All the sounds of this release are performed with the originals analogic keyboard of 70's that gives to this RBS011 the correct electronic feeling.
Mantra Breaks have two menacing Italian dancefloor destroyers from Andrea Lai ready for action. Out in mid August, ‘Beat Stealers’ has thundering beats and nasty searing leads rolled out into a heads down gritty workout. The flip ‘Time’ provides a more upbeat jacking groove with plenty of energy to whip the floor into a frenzy. Andrea Lai really proves he is stepping up his game.
Zero’s 'Emit/Collect' was released five whole years ago and the Rennie Pilgrem remix was without doubt one of the largest breaks tracks ever. In late August, Streetwise Recordings unleash some completely fresh retakes on the tune. First up, the mighty Coburn interrupts the program by teaming up with Anne Savage in her Dumb Blonde guise to deliver a housey breaks crossover that sounds like an ice cream man on acid has got inside your head and is squeezing your brains out of your ear. On the flip, Precision Cuts weave their beautiful magic taking the track deeper than the Marianas Trench resulting in a piece of sublime music so divine that groups of monks in the Himalayas have actually started to use it for ceremonial purposes.
After months locked in the Virus HQ studio lab emerge Virus Syndicate with a fresh batch of highly infected vocal dirt bombs. Out late August on the Tyke imprint, 'Wasted' (that first appeared on the 'Work Related Illness' album) is reworked by the full Virus crew and is a homage to one of Virus Syndicate's favourite past times… The flip 'Red Eye' is a sorry story of a hypocritical drugs councillor told by Nika D, where MRK1 delivers yet another militantly crafted beat, majestic strings and huge subs combine with the deafening snare and monstrous underlying bass line to create on of the darkest Virus numbers to date.
The latest release from Spin Out Recordings (due out late August) is sure to be a big summer tune for the house and breaks DJs alike, as Vandal brings his first ever house release under his Simpleton moniker. 'Just Let Go' is a cool 4/4 electro style workout with synths and cut up vocals in all the right places. On the flip, breaks monsters Baobinga & ID got enlisted with their remix which is a storming acid squelcher from start to finish.
Passenger Records proudly announce the launch their brand new album project ’This Way Up’, a representation of the current and rather vibrant breakbeat scene with tracks created by producers from every corner of the planet. To kick-start the project they deliver the first double A-side in early August to be released from the project: first up we have the versatile genius that is Nick Thayer teaming up with his new writing partner Micah representing the sound of Australia. Their tune is something completely different from Mr.Thayer, a sort of cross between the Prodigy and a Roy Budd film score. On the flipside we have breaks newcomer Phetsta, representing Perth Australia, whose 'Four Eight Three' has a similar vibe as Noisia’s ’Gutterpump’ and with equal production abilities, this is a summer groove that will keep the dancefloor warm and bubbling till winter.
The Cyberfunk juggernaught continues with DJ Quest taking the reigns once again in the shape of the huge hardcore-esque ‘Back To The Old Skool’ and the hugely original ‘Robot Dance'. Out late August on the Cyberfunk imprint, ‘Back To The Old Skool’ can be best described as something with early 90’s hardcore influences with modern 2007 production in true Quest fashion. Flip the script and you have another unique weird funky roller 'Robot Dance' as only Quest knows here. With beats swinging like a pendulum and crazy bass and fx, this completes another quality Cyberfunk package.
Another classic "hot" one for the Bingo Beats and Redeyes lovers out there... Redeyes' (real name Julien Salvi) new single ‘Hey Lover’ (out late August) is a slick and soul-fuelled roller, whilst the flipside ‘Breakable’ is a soulful jam that holds its own with beautifully layered pads, atmospheres and chords to send a shiver down the spine.
After much anticipation, new kid on the block Culture Shock (real name James Pountney) delivers what could be one of drum'n'bass’ coolest EPs of the decade. Out late August on Ram Records, the 'Third Stage' four-tracker oozes style and class and works well on all fronts. ‘Rework’ is a drum'n'bass disco-enthused workout that features shining new talents The Brookes Brothers. ‘Zeppelin’ is a brand-new track that no one has had on dub-plate/CD and is fresh to this release which everyone involved is very excited about. ‘Vice Chase’ has been going down very very well and has grown a massive underground appreciation. Finally ‘Asteroids’ is on a different tip and a first for Ram being of the breaks genre. Available as a double pack and also as two separate picture discs, expect to see this release blow up large!
German DJ/producer Oliver Moldan returns on the Hope label in early August with one of the best tracks of the summer with its soaring Moroder-style line that growls and grooves across the beats rising to meet a great warm string line that neither trances out nor washes down the downright reckless no nonsense danceability of this record. On the flip, electrohouse merchants Kaiser Souzai deliver a surprising mix pulling all the elements apart and creating something that cuts an edge but also sounds strangely reminiscent.
Adam Freeland's Marine Parade label welcomes new signing Alex Metric (real name Alex Drury). Out in early August, the genre-smashing 'Whatshewants' is a squelching dancefloor stormer whose chunky hooks bring rude rock intensity to electronic club thump. On the B-side, the slamming 'Oh' percolates with ironic electro-pop synths and brash hip-hop attitude, while 'Breakin Hearts' seduces with chunky guitar glitch given the trademark Alex Metric acid wash.
The cool Dump Valve label returns with some cutting edge vocal grime courtesy of Wonder (real name Wayne Gardner). The 12" 'Call My Name' (due out in early August) features vocal tracks from two of the UK's finest MCs. On ’Call My Name’ the distinct vocals of top UK hip hop MC and "Mercury Prize"™ nominee Sway are a great compliment to Wonder’s futuristic urban beats. Also featured is the groundbreaking collaboration with Kano, only ever available as a very limited release in 2004. Finishing the package is an essential instrumental version of ’Death B4’, one of Wonder’s heaviest tunes to date.
The Contagious label returns with another bass heavy 12", this time seeing Finland’s No.1 Tes La Rok on the buttons. Out in mid August, 'Roll Out' as featured on 'Dubstep Allstars 5' has been battered all over by the likes of N-Type, Hatcha, The Plastician, MRK1 etc and has seen crowds screaming for the reload all over the world. The flip 'Lickashot' has also featured on 'Dubstep Allstars 5' and is another bass-heavy jump-up dubstep track that needs no introduction.
Ed209 (real name Ed Davis) is back, this time hooking up with the legendary reggae artist Earl 16. Released early August on the Hardcore Beats label, 'Tijuana Fever' is a sun-drenched slab of electronic funk – a peak-time bassline monster! The twisted bass and fantastic drops of the B-side 'Biscuits And Gravy' are equally as impressive and prove that Hardcore Beats know where its at.
‘Rise up’ by Yves Larock (real name Yves Cheminade from Neuchatel) is sure to be crowned soundtrack to the summer of 2007. In the same vein as the massive hits from Funkstar Deluxe ‘Sun in Shining’ and Bob Sinclar’s ‘Love Generation’, one listen instantly stamps sunshine on the brain! On ‘Rise Up’, Yves has yet again expertly blended uplifting house and a reggae vocal, this time courtesy of Jaba, who took time out of his busy touring schedule with his band Moonraisers. With a hook big enough to land Moby Dick, expect Yves’ career to catapult to the next level when ‘Rise Up’ does some serious chart damage in early August. Remixes come from Harry ‘Choo Choo’ Romero, Vandalism, and Raul Rincon.
Soul is where the heart is for many of us and on the latest Soul Heaven Recordings release (due late July) Chicago DJ/producer Terry Hunter teams up with Terisa Griffin for the storming new release 'Wonderful'. The single also includes top mixes that have been getting hammered by the New Yorkers MAW.
Following Unique 3’s recent re-release of their classic ‘The Theme’, Fat Records present their debut production on the label in late July, which preceeds their forthcoming album ‘Invasive Signals’. Remix artist Si Begg is a household name amongst techno and electronica DJs, with releases spanning over a decade on labels such as NovaMute, Hope, Fused & Bruised, Virgin, Mercury, Compost and his own label Noodles Recordings.
Black Mustang's new single ‘Mad As Hell’ (due out late July on the Lo Experimental Beats imprint) is a collaboration with the magical Kerrier District (aka Luke Vibert), who provides the chunky disco beats over which the Mustang stack layers of Moog and tripped out dub vocals and fx. The Sleeparchive Disco Dub comes from a planet way out in the solar system where people dance only in their minds and where dub is a powerful narcotic taken only by the clinically insane. On the flip things get seriously warped as sheets of feedback battle intense Moog action, culminating in a climax of arpeggios and deep space noise. Truly psychedelic, disco mind funk from another cosmos...
iBreaks is a tech-breaks label orientated towards peaktime dancefloor tracks. In late July the label welcomes back J‑Mekka, Robosapiens and Andrea Lai to its roster with two dancefloor ravers. The A-side ‘What’s Going To Happen’ is a journey into linear acid techno breaks that stomps and tweaks its way across the dancefloor like a big-booted, flouro haired, bug eyed sunglasses wearing techno raver. On the flip, J-Mekka and Andrea Lai get to work on ‘Obrigado’, a minimal trip down a particularly sinister k-hole that has the potential to seriously confuse and send you over the edge if you find yourself having over-indulged and entered an alternative existence on the dancefloor.
Hailing from Finland, the man Muffler (real name Konsta Mikkonen) has a secret Hospital history. Under the name Konsta he had a cheeky 12” on Hospital’s M.A.S.H. label back in the day, and a track on 'Hospital Mix 3'. Out in early August, his new single 'Mermaids' is a track as elegant and beautiful as the name suggests; there’s no fishy business going on here as synths from the deepest ocean trenches come correct with a swelling bassline and a rolling Balearic guitar hook. But there’s more to this 12” with the sublime 'Waves Breaking' on the flip – a consummate slice of electric soul. The intro washes over you before the hypnotizing piano hook snares you in like a siren and you come crashing down on the rocks of the drop.
Radio Slave (real name Matt Edwards) certainly excelled himself when he created his gnarly acid-drenched minimal-tech shoulder popper 'Screaming Hands' that first surfaced in late 2006 on the 'No Sleep EP'. But now in late July it's time for the remixes! First up is Josh Wink, a man whose reputation goes before him. His "interpretation" is nothing short of colossal. On the flip, Cosmo Vitelli delivers a corker along with the gnarly Screamapella tool!
Shackleton has become in a very short period of time the toast of the UK underground dubstep scene and beyond. His latest single 'Next To Nothing' (due in late July on the Crosstown Rebels label) features the vocals of Jackson Del Ray, ex-lead of Savage Republic, the cult band from L.A.'s West Coast. Middle Eastern percussion and buzzing bass give this track his typical ominous feeling of impending doom, Jackson’s vocals cut through, painting the full picture on Shackleton's canvas. On the flip, Guillaume & The Cotu Dumonts' remix is a peak time tribal monster, turning the track on its head and bringing the Middle Eastern percussion forward, whilst Exercise One strip the track back to its minimal funk in their inimitable way.
Oblong (aka Patrick Kenmore of Kaidi Tatham/Spektrum/Blockheads fame) releases his new single 'Playing On My Mind' on the fine Exceptional label in mid July. The Vocal Mix features a haunting string riff and a meaty stomping beat that heads straight for he mainstream dancefloor. Exceptional labelmate Cloud goes for the cooler more minimal approach as befits his Swedish background putting the emphasis more on the guitars to deliver a heavily atmospheric mix. On the flip, Elite Force delivers a mashed up breaks/ techy and many points in between monster which makes us all very happy round here at exceptional HQ. Last but not least, Oblong rounds off the package with his Alternative Mix which to our ears is deeply weird but also rather wonderful.
Distinctive Records unleash the second remix from Hybrid's third album 'I Choose Noise' in late July – this time a breaks fest from two of the key operators on the scene, Elite Force and Future Funk Squad respectively. Already ripping up breaks nights everywhere, this release will be big with both the large and loyal Hybrid fanbase and fans of the remixers. This one is a serious dancefloor heavy hitter!
Elite Force unleashes second single off current LP
After the huge success of 'You', Used & Abused Records keep the releases rolling with ‘Return 2 Mind Funk’, another killer cut from head honcho Elite Force's 'Modern Primitive' album. Out late July, ‘Return 2 Mind Funk’ is treated to a set of genre straddling remixes, ensuring that DJs of all persuasions are catered for.
Out early July on the Breakin Even imprint, 'Live For The Weekend' is the Groove Diggerz' eighth single and boy they don’t get much phatter than this! With vocals from Jul-C this track is the absolute bomb, using a cheeky "Human Traffic" sample, a bassline badder than Snoop Doggy Dog, a breakdown that even your mamma would be proud of and tight rolling beats phatter than the Nutty Professor after elevenses… The magnificent Diverted take the reigns again for the remix and take the tune in a tougher direction as we have come to expect from the boys; an absolute roller this one with kick ass beats and the original bass line using the vocals to great effect.
Koma & Bones are pushing the Burrito boundaries again with an architecture-based double header in late July. 'Skyscraper' opens proceedings with stripped down mad broken beats, f**ked-up vocals and a tweak of acid. Just when you are lulled into a false sense of security, the drop arrives, and there’s no going back, and no escape from that acid line! Next up, the title 'Multistorey' may suggest a smaller construction than 'Skyscraper', but this is not the case, it’s equally as large! An addictive nagging bassline, large Germanic riffs and bleeps and quirky effects make this another monster.
The fourth and final installment from Matrix & Futurebound’s ‘Universal Truth’ album is the icing on the cake. Out late July on the Metro/Viper label, the monstrously large ‘American Beauty’ finally makes its way onto full single release and gets the VIP treatment, retaining all the magic of the original but adding that bit of extra strength to the winning formula. The B-side ‘Sand Storm’ sees the dynamic duo take a deeper more mystical vibe.
Following hot on the footsteps of their debut EP, ‘Lesson 1’ which received heavy support from Steve Lamacq and Annie Nightingale on Radio 1, Nursery Of Naughtiness(real names Alastair Dawson and Gavin Whyte) are quickly developing into one of the most exciting electronic acts coming from the North of England. Out early July on the Exceptional imprint, ‘Eyes’ is razor sharp breaks smoothened out by the track’s epic arrangement. Far Too Loud’s remix goes straight for the dancefloor with its take-no-prisoners electro breaks approach. The package is completed by ‘Substanced’ – similar in style to their label mate Culprit 1’s output, the track is never short of ideas fusing guitars, strings and even flute into a psychedelic journey into tripped out electronica that easily bridges the gap between indie and dance.
Funkatech’s rising stars Specimen A (real names Morris Jones, Phil Jones, and Dan Smart) deliver the goods with a classy double A-side offering their versatility up and proving they’re worth their weight in gold! Out laste June, 'Dirty Disco' is a naughty dancefloor groover, keeping cheese factor to an absolute zero and replacing it with pure class! The flip ‘Pull The Pin’ is closer to the Specimen A sound, with a harder edge and ready to rock any given dancefloor at any given time!
Scuba (real name Paul Rose) returns to the Scuba label with a much anticipated release on wax. Released late July, 'Frisco' is the logical conclusion to recent guitar-infused Scuba productions. Reaching for the four-string this time, Scuba comes up with a big tongue-in-cheek snare roll, leading to a digital dubstep bouncer strangely reminiscent of the Police. On the flip, 'Brown' gets serious for one of the deepest Scuba tracks yet – electronic melodic minimalism...
The Freestylers new single ‘Security’ (due late July on the Against The Grain label) was originally written by The Beatclub in 1992, inspired by the rhythmic insanity of the Miami Bass movement, the techno-savvy of Kraftwerk and the pop sensibilities of New Order. When rewriting ‘Security’, the Freestylers teamed up with shit hot producers Pendulum and they’ve once again produced a truly magical piece of music. On remix duties from London's breakbeat underground are Ctrl Z, keeping it rocky and breaky. On the second disc, Australia's Sam La More of Tonight Only fame reworks 'Electrified' with absolutely awesome results, whilst on the flip Lee Coombs deliveres a cracking relick of 'Security'!
Having already nailed the definitive soulful drum'n'bass anthem early in 2007 in the shape of “Everything’s Different” High Contrast is back once more – and this time he’s bringing the biggest slice of retro jungle funk this side of the millennium. Out mid July on Hospital Records, “If We Ever” features the spine tingling vocals of the legendary Diane Charlemagne. An instantly memorable piano hook and sublime oldschool breaks and bass lines fool you into thinking you know the tune from back in the day. As always the flipside brings the contrast – “Pink Flamingos” smacks the dancefloor hard. With the raw energy of early Prodigy tracks, the vowel filter, the synth strings, the vibe is distinctly electric on this one.
After the awesome ‘Im With You’, Paul Harris and Jay P return in fine form under their Superbass guise with ‘Don’t Be Silent’ from the forthcoming Superbass album. Released late June on the Toolroom imrprint, 'Don’t Be Silent' will be a main stay throughout the Ibiza season with its infectious vocal, uplifting strings and melodic undertones. The remix package caters for all tastes. Man of the moment Dirty South takes the original to a new level with his trademark sound of filthy bass and energetic beats to create a dancefloor anthem! Hungarian Workidz turn in a quality remix of bouncing beats and bass with the guitar riff in full effect! Audiofly round off the package with a sublime deeper take suitable for any dancefloor.
Wonderland Avenue return with a blinder of a release named 'As Good As It Gets' already being touted as the summer anthem of the year. Wonderland Avenue is the pseudonym of Harvey Dawson (aka Trisco) and Steve Lavers (of Move Ya & Steve Lavers fame). As Good As It Gets' is released on Kinky Vinyl in late June, and with Timo Garcia Emjae and Jerome Robins on the mix you're getting a special package.
Border Community returns with the follow up to the outstanding Misstress Barbara record, ‘Barcelona’. This time, governor James Holden employs Avus for a second outing 'Furry Hat' on the label. Released late June and with some great early support, this is set to be another Border Community monster…
Set to be one of the summer’s biggest tunes in clubs and festival fields alike, Manchester’s indie-dance heroes The Whip return with the epic floor filler ‘Divebomb’ on Kitsune in late June. The Whip have moved on from their early New Order-ish inspired sound to one that is fully ingrained onto the dancefloor. Also gone is the electroclash style which made previous singles like 'Trash' sound very dated. That said 'Divebomb', which in its original mix takes elements of early 1980's electronica and uses them to great effect, sounds fresh as a daisy with it's bleeps and energetic rhythms. The Crystal Castles remix has a more updated beat to it and is headed right for a dancefloor burn-up, post haste.
Introducing a brand new re-edit series from sunny Bristol, Thumbs Aloft launch a rather fine Pointless Edits label in mid June. A favourite with the Unabombers, Tom Middleton, Chris Duckenfield, and Frank Tope already, 'Stick Around' is a six-minute slab of mop top-shaking Balearic discofunk with more kazoos, saxes and crazy synth twiddles than your average boozed-up busking session. Flip over for ´TK Max´, a percussive disco beast crafted from cheap end-of-sale outcasts that no other producers would touch, and ´Pedalo Disco´, the track that sent Freddie Flintoff on a crazed Caribbean drinking spree.
Baobinga (real name Sam Simpson) makes his Mantra Breaks debut with ‘Shake It’. Released late June, 'Shake It' is a rolling bass monster that will literally leave you quaking in your boots! There is also a heavy techno influence with uplifting stabs and plenty of electronic weirdness.
Legendary producer/DJ Justin Robertson launches his own label Neverwork, to showcase Justin’s various alter egos encompassing techno through psychedelic folk and onto Justin’s band project Thee Earls. Out in late June, the melodic house A-side ‘Pylon Theory’ is accompanied by the stripped down ‘Diceman’ and the atmospheric percussion led ‘Subway Sky’ on the flip.
Danish producers Djuma Soundsystem's notorious ‘Les Djinns’ returns on UK electronica label Critical Mass Records with an invasion re-edit of Trentemoller’s classic remix and a brand new remix from Great Stuff’s rising star Swen Weber famous for his First Stroke and Bassman record. 'Les Djinns' hits the streets in mid June.
Soul:R, Creative Source, Bingo Beats, and Digital Soundboy are just some of the labels which will be releasing a track this summer by up-and-coming drum'n'bass artist Lynx (real name Steve Nobes). First up in late June we have Fabio's Creative Source imprint with the fantastic 'Mariachi' which started a snowball effect in the scene when world-famous Marcus Intalex played the track on his Solutions Radio show in summer 2006.
Injecting heavy dose of soulful sounds and distinctive vocal hooks, DJ Mutiny (real name Carlos Rule) has cunningly crafted his own musical corner within breakbeat. For his first release on Botchit Breaks (due late June) we’ve got the rolling funk shaker that is 'Soul Monster', laced with chopped hip hop vocal snippets, funky ass stabs and one beastly bass line! On the flipside with no other than Superstyle Deluxe who turn the original track on its head and take it on a completely different journey, soaked with pounding drums, twisted acid lines and bass so low it could bring a rugby team to their knees!
The Vertical Sound label goes gargantuan in late June with a release that they’ve been building up to since, well, the last ice age it seems! In come The Body Snatchers with a turbo-charged instalment of electro-booty-house: an anthem of intergalactic proportions so large it’s making waves that are shaking the craters on all eight of Neptune’s moons. Flip for the excellent ‘Homicide’, tickling the boundaries of electro and breaks, and pulling off a foot shuffling monster riddim.
watch the video of Body Snatchers 'Big Ass Mini Skirt' (Vertical Sound)
In early June, jump-up legend Aphrodite (real name Gavin King) proves he's still alive and kicking with a fresh slice of drum'n'bass pie from his own Aphrodite imprint. Chucking a ragga vocal, rolling breakbeats and an ultra bouncy bassline into the mixing bowl, Aphrodite whizzes it all up in his own inimitable style, adding big ravey lead stabs and plenty of rudeboy swagger. On the flip the ‘Deadly Dub’ version keeps the vocals to a minimal peppering while retaining all of the elements of the original version, making a more DJ friendly alternative.
Remixed and re-modelled by Mylo to thank Anu Pillai from Freeform Five for whipping up the vocals for his track 'Muscle Car', Freeform Five's 'No More Conversations' has already become a club monster and is well on its way to becoming a classic track. To compliment the Mylo remix, Apollo Recordings have dug deep to get you the mix package to die for featuring Fedde Le Grand, Mason and Switch when the single hits the streets early June.
watch the video of Freeform Five 'No More Conversations' (Apollo)
If you're fed up to the back teeth by modern culture, then Man Like Me's nihilistic assassination of great swathes of MTV-endorsed shite will, literally, be music to your ears. With a thick-Brit accent, lines like "I Really couldn't give a toss about that music video" take on an oddly comical/menacing spin, made all the more brusque by the electro-pepped backing and squelchy bass. Released in mid June on up-and-coming independent label Nonstop (home of Spektrum), remixes are supplied by A Guy Called Gerald in tune with the recent nu-rave revival, plus Roll Deep for the edgier more underground mix.
Having caused a stir with their limited edition 10” debut ‘Photobooth EP‘, young NME favourites Friendly Fires continue their funk fuelled attack on the nations’ clued-up dancefloors. They present the 'Cross The Line EP' (due in mid June on the People In The Sky label), a release for plugged in players and better bedsits with another eclectic three tracker. Friendly Fires are so good that it's difficult not to give the impression of typical music-journo hyperbolic frothing when writing about them. But, truly, they might be the most exciting band in the UK right now!
Last year was dominated by the release of Hyper's debut album 'We Control'. This year Hyper returned to the studio with an agenda in mind - that of producing some killer club and dancefloor gems, 'No Rockstars' being the first to see the light if day! Out late June on the Kilowatt imprint, Hyper delivered a club smash fusing punk rock, bass heavy beats and an electro hook suitable for the most innovative dancefloors. The remix is care of Australians Bass Clef. Taking the original killer electro hook and maxing it out amongst his own style of tuff, tight electro production, this mix will have them jumping from Hoxton to Sydney and back!
Heading up the hotly anticipated debut album ‘No Fighting In The War Room’, ‘Dear Constable’ is the latest single from Sheffield scamps Harrisons, and like previous releases ‘Wishing Well’, ‘Blue Note’ and ‘Monday’s Arms’, it’s another blue-collar belter; a vitriolic rant set to an infectious dance beat. On the B-side, another exciting proposition - a Harrisons cover of the Nick Cave classic ‘Red Right Hand’, famously one of the best songs ever written about masturbation. Here, Cave’s droll baritone is swapped for singer Adam ’Jubby’ Taylor’s distinctive Yorkshire accent. 'Dear Constable' is out on Melodic in late June.
watch the video of
Harrisons 'Dear Constable' (Melodic)
The iBreaks label is going from strength to strength, and in late May they come up with a massive new 12" from Freeflow 45 (real name Dom Sweeten) who smashed it up with his previous single ‘Low Contour’. On the A-side we have 'Peaktime' with its shaker bass, murderouse samples and a euphoric breakdown. Flip over for 'Inside' with its heavy kick drum and 90s old skool sample start which then rolls into a signature grinding bassline.
Warning: this is going to be the biggest breakbeat/electro/house/techno club tune of 2007! After destroying the breakbeat scene with 'Gutter Pump', Noisia return with thier own label Division in late June. The first release features a dirty electro track called 'Yellow Brick' and a strange breaks/techno experiment called 'Raar'. With Daft Punk, Sven Vath, Fat Boy Slim, Laurent Garnier all supporting, you know this is goona be massive.
Tayo’s distinctive dub breaks style has forged its way forwards onto a worldwide platform and his fusion of other genres into breakbeat can clearly be heard on his ‘Fabric Live 32’ mix CD. This time around (as he releases his new single on the Mantra Breaks label in mid June) he teams up with the dynamic duo Ctrl Z, who have an impressive repertoire with releases and remixes on respected labels such as 777, Hardcore Beats and Rat Records. It’s no surprise then that we have a heavy dub influenced groover ‘Everytime’, which makes a perfect summer time party tune. On the flip ‘Lovers Rock’ teases it way from a slower reggae groove to a full force bassline that will tear any dancefloor apart.
Hybrid is one of the most successful, influential and renowned electronic acts in the world. In early June they release the first remix from their third album including a huge remix from Dave Seaman and The Group Therapy crew. The mix of ‘Last Man Standing’ is brought to us by the infamous Group Therapy crew. With the legendary Dave Seaman at the helm, this is a huge, progressive remix and already a club favourite. The Stefan Anion mix of the festival favourite ‘Until Tomorrow’ is mixed in true Hybrid style, and is expected to be a big favourite with Hybrid fans everywhere.
Following hot on the heels of Dylan Rhymes & Jono Fernandez’ massive release ’Breathe’, Lot 49 returns with the first of two vinyl samplers taken from Meat Katie's forthcoming compilation series 'A DJ Compilation'. Featuring Rogue Elements’ remix of the classic Dylan Rhymes’ tune ’Muzika’ and a track from rising star Jamie McHugh, this is sure to be another fine release from Lot 49 when it hit the streets in mid June.
Soundtrax Recordings are proud to announce the debut of seriously talented German producer Syncopix (real name Roland Bogdahn) on the label. Out late June, the A-side 'Go Went Gone' has his typical, intricate programming and full of clever musical touches with more than enough weight to work on the dancefloor. The flipside 'City Birds' sees Syncopix rollin things out in a smoother style but again this track still has the kick needed for todays most discerning clubs.
Our favourite Austrian drum'n'bass producer D-Kay (real name David Kulenkampff) has announced details of his forthcoming debut album 'Individual Soul'. To wet our appetite, we get a first taster 12" single on the Brigand Music label in late June. On the A-side, D-Kay joins forces with Matt for the dancefloor smacker 'Jungle Funk' which is bare jump-up partyarty business. Flip over for the dreamy smooth roller 'Twin Peakz'.
Concord Dawn sign to Klute's Commercial Suicide camp alongside non-other than Chris Su. Out late June, ‘Scream To The Stars’ intro’s with a haunting riff-melody, thumping drums and is packed with rave-dancefloor-energy. The flip ‘Ice Age’ is a dreamy journey , gospel-like chords , ethereal strings and drops into squelched lfo’s to tear-out the dancefloor.
The breakthrough dance collective of the year bar none, Noisia have made a name for themselves creating the evilest drum'n'bass music the world has ever seen, but in recent months Noisia have been seen DJ-ing at house clubs, releasing singles with prominent house labels and most recently remixing for the likes of Robbie Williams! However, it wasn’t long before they decided to go back to the dark side and join forces with good friend Mayhem to come with something more disgusting than ever, and they got KRS One to provide the vocal! Out late June on the Vision imprint, ‘Exodus’ has a truly breathtaking intro bursting with evil foreboding sets the scene, before Noisia and Mayhem unleash the darkness with their signature drum programming alongside futuristic never heard before beats and breaks. Be sure to wait for the hip-hop-esque interlude that features the immense vocal talents of none other than KRS One...
It’s been a long time coming but finally the debut single from Sheffield legends Reverend & The Makers. Produced by Jagz Kooner and mixed by Cenzo Townsend, this first single is a massive wild eyed statement of intent. A record that instantly grabs you by the scruff of the neck and sounds like all your indie rock dreams mashed together in one band. ‘Heavyweight Champion Of The World’ (out late May on the Wall Of Sound label) has all the swagger of Manchester’s ‘finest’ with a lyricist that puts almost everybody else in the shade. As if that wasn’t enough, flick to the B side’s ‘18-30’, with its wry commentary on boozy package holidays and singalong anthemic qualities, and its patently obvious that this is the start of something special.
Lace up your dancing shoes for the sizzling, summery new single from rising star and multi-talented musical force Ben Westbeech. Whilst a typically Bristol sized elephantine bassline underpins the original mix, there’s no shortage of finesse and funk here. On the remix front that man Switch introduces a tougher, grimier edge whilst retaining all the ferocious funk of the original. Also one of the founding fathers of UK garage, Mr MJ Cole steps up next and presents a mellower sunnier vista with his effervescent edit.
Armand Van Helden’s ‘NYC Beat’ was intended to be another underground taster from the ‘Ghettoblaster’ album (like the previous single ‘Touch Your Toes’) but the response has been so emphatic that it’s now getting a full release late May on the Southern Fried label. At club level the support has been widespread, which isn’t surprising looking at the list of remixers, with MSTRKRFT being the most well known, but Emperor Machine, Prince Language and Nathan Detroit have all had specialist support for their mixes too.
The fantastic Signature Recordings imprint returns with some more inspired productions from the Irish wizard Calibre (real name Dominick Martin), this time with DRS blessing these tracks with his smooth vocal touch. Out in mid June, 'Hustlin' (backed with the excellent 'Movin') is a future classic!
Unique 3 are bona-fide rave heroes. Back in 1988 their classic anthem 'The Theme' laid the blueprint for breaks, drum'n'bass, and countless other genres with its pioneering use of sub bass and bleep melodies. Major label deals and UK Top 20 chart success followed, and Unique 3 have since been cited as inspiration by The Chemical Brothers, Coldcut, LFO and Goldie. Fast forward 19 years and Unique 3 are back with a vengeance. 'The Theme' is due for re-release on Fat Records in late May, and remixes come from the some of the leading new talent around - Merka and The Rogue Element handling the breaks duties in the first 12", while Dom Kane and Rhythmatic take care of the house beats on the second disc.
Early June, Spin Out return with another eclectic chunky piece of vinyl with a fantastic original by James Harcourt. It’s a nicely filthy record (as you might expect) with a real big-room house appeal. Remixes come from some of Australia’s hottest property at the moment, Aston Shuffle who twists up the track and spits it out with a bouncy, glitchy and all around massive rework. Lee Coombs also turns in a growling builder which takes some of the best parts of the original and creates one of the best crescendos we’ve heard in a long time.
Clipz follows up the almighty 'Download' single later this month with something just as special with 'Rubbish'. Known on the dubplate scene as 'Chattin Rubbish', this track has been abusing the dancefloor masses for months. It’s the usual affair, original application of proper beats and bass. Clipz (real name Hugh Pescod) is without a doubt one of the best producers in the game, he comes trumps every time he gets in the studio, this is just another example of how good it can be done.
Yet again Kurd Maverick (real name Cihan Ötün) manages to pull out all the stops to provide one of the biggest tunes of the Miami Winter Music Conference. Out early June, 'Let's Work' is the follow up to last year's Ibiza anthem 'The Rub' and it follows perfectly with a sumptuous rolling bassline and acid hooks, interspersed with the catchy "C'mon let's work" vocal snippet. Already a firm favourite with Pete Tong, Tom Novy, David Guetta & Deep Dish. Look out for some amazing remixes coming soon...
The Berkane Sol label returns on mid June with another quality two-tracker created by Nottingham-based producer Geiom (real name Kamal Joory). 'Unnecessary Stress' on the A-side introduces new vocalist Marita; her sultry style brings to mind the more spaced out moments of Tricky’s back catalogue. But this is not trip hop – the drums and bass that power the tune are coming straight from the future. 'Auxology' on the flip takes things into a much brighter world of sound. Drum wise this track is totally futuristic with two main influences – electro in one sense but also taking inspiration from contemporary dubstep and grime tunes.
Paving the way for the re-release of his critically-lauded ‘Modern Primitive’ album, Elite Force (real name Simon Shackleton) kicks off his brand new label Used & Abused Recordings with the stunning single ‘You’. Hybrid kick things off, working the track’s wistful vocals in and around their trademark morphing synths and gritty strings before unleashing a thunderous breakbeat. Up next is the man himself, Elite Force, who injects his trademark drums and screeching synths into the mix – another surefire hit for the tech-funk brigade. With a re-release of the ‘Modern Primitive’ CD imminent, as well as a stack of fresh material forthcoming from Elite Force, Used & Abused Recordings look set to be one of the labels to check for exciting and forward-thinking music in 2007.
'Rising Sky' is taken from Merka's debut album 'Beserka' that has already received massive press coverage and critical acclaim. Alongside the album version, the release combines Merka's unique style of melodic funky breaks with the soul-full vocal talent of Heidi Levo. Also included on this spectacular release is the Retrodub Remix which encapsulates club-thumping beats, bass and intricately placed samples to form a track that will fill any dance floor. All in all this release (due for release late May on the Fat label) has something for everyone music lovers will adore this one.
Hyperdub’s first release of 2007 is a two-barrel volley designed to put some spring in your (dub) step. Out late May, on the A-side, Kode9 finally drops his long-awaited bouncing re-rub of Massive Music’s 'Find My Way’. Like Augustus Pablo trapped in Tron’, this arcade game skank has a drop that has caused power cuts everywhere it’s been road-tested from Beijing to Brixton. The B-side then takes equal honours with a chunkier and broken edit of Kode9 & Spaceape's 'Quantum', a tune first spawned from the 'Find My Way' remix session, and which is the concluding track from the 'Memories Of The Future' album.
Finally arriving one year after the last Pendulum single on Breakbeat Kaos, the massive ‘Blood Sugar/Axle Grinder’ is known worldwide having been played across the globe by all the DJs fortunate to have copies. Released late May on the Breakbeat Kaos label, both tracks showcase Pendulum's unparalleled production talents, and is available as a vinyl and download release only, which also sets the scene for a re-packaged version of the album on CD format which will include ‘Blood Sugar’ and ‘Axle Grinder’ in place of ‘Another Planet ’ and ‘Still Grey’.
The third single 'Family' to be taken from the massive ‘Universal Truth’ album shows Matrix & Futurebound's more soulful side in the shape of two huge vocal tracks. Drawing on their old school house roots, the boys have draughted in the one and only Robert Owens to deliver the goods on ‘Family’, a deep and melodic trip back to the golden age of Chicago house. The flip ‘Coast to Coast’ has already been described by Pendulum as the “biggest dancefloor track around at the moment” and features the vocals of Louis Smith (known for recent work with Optical & Ed Rush) whose style is somewhere between Sid Vicious and Sam Cooke with his own twist.
Playaz Recordings is another new imprint in the True Playaz empire and we see the fresh talent of Hazard kicking the label off... Right off in fact, 'Busted' is a signature TP track that has all the elements of a opener for DJ Hype with its hard drums and a drop that will always get the rewind treatment... On the flip '0121' is more darker with scary chords and a hell of a bassline.
Two heavy weight dubstep artists Kromestar and Hatcha team up for the first release on the new Dub Steppers label. Due late May, the 'Twin Towers EP' features three tracks 'Riddick', 'Twin Towers' and 'Fuel Head'.
After remixing the likes of Deep Dish, Medcab, DK8 & Shut Up & Dance, Move Ya & Steve Lavers return in mid May with a double header on Audio Bug. First up is the seriously rude ‘We Rude‘ with some nasty b-line action and a breakdown that needs serious medical attention! Next up is ‘Jack Trak‘ with its electro-style bassline and oddball bleeps and squelches.
There are big dance records, and then there are huge dance records; Dada’s ‘Lollipop’ sits firmly in the latter bracket. Out in mid May on Data Records, ‘Lollipop’ is the work of Matt Schwartz, formerly of chart-toppers Deepest Blue and The Drill, and the production genius who can count Massive Attack, and many more, as past projects. Super-cool girl Trix, from hotly tipped electro-punk band Lips is joined on vocals by dance legend Sandy Rivera (of Kings Of Tomorrow fame and the producer of the house anthem ‘Finally’). A range of mixes come from Jerry Ropero, Nic Fanciulli and The Drill.
Sao Paulo producer XRS (real name Xerxes de Oliveira) emerged on global drum'n'bass scene with the release of the ‘Brasil EP’ on V Recordings in 2001, but he is better known for his work with DJ Marky (‘LK’). Now recording and DJing on his own, XRS has signed exclusively to Horizons Music, and this 12" 'System Halt' is his first offering to the label. The euphoric ‘System Half’ oozes memories of the rave days with its repetitive synth stabs, smoothly mixed with XRS’ uplifting breaks, perfect to get a dancefloor going any night! The mellower ‘X Type’ features some beautiful warm keys and melodic bass contrasting nicely with militant beats.
They just can’t get enough of 10 Rapid (real name Dom Gentry) on planet Burrito, and lucky for them ‘Master System’ is yet another killer! Oit in mid May, 'Master System' comes with Dom’s trademark quality organic beats, a massive dirty bass that builds and grinds away at your head and your feet. As if the original mix wasn’t enough, they’ve completed the platter with a master stroke - an enormous Koma & Bones remix. More often than not they come out with an absolute floor smasher, and this is one of those times.
As a preview of the forthcoming album ‘Back Of Beyond’ Nu:Tone (real name Dan Gresham) delivers the first single 'Beliefs' from the batch of fresh music for 2007. Out late May on the Hospital stable, ‘Beliefs’ is a massive house-influenced track that's had people from all genres in awe of its power. Phat chord stabs and rising pianos lead the way to Pat Fulgoni’s full on vocal, anthemic in feel and effect. The flip ‘Beatnik’ is an altogether different fish, a real deep track with pitch bent synths and delicately placed bassline.
In 2007, online records shop Juno Records will be ten years old, and to celebrate we are releasing ten classic dance tracks, each remixed by leading producers including Julien Jabre, Spirit Catcher, Dimitri from Paris, Lindstrom, Troy Pierce and many more. To launch the series, Faze Action's seminal deep house classic ‘In The Trees’ is remixed by Carl Craig, Jerome Sydenham and Tiger Stripes. Available on two separate 12"s and a CD single featuring all mixes, this release hits the streets early May.
Punks Recordings is breakbeat’s biggest selling label and the only outlet for purchasing the Stantons’ exclusive tracks and edits. The label's latest release (due out in mid May), 'Pop Ya Virus' and 'Bollywood Beatdown' were featured heavily on Stanton Warriors’ Fabriclive compilation, and are among the most requested tracks from the mix. Showcasing the Stantons’ diverse influences, both tracks are set to blow the breaks scene apart all over again, as well as continuing to find their way into the boxes of the more adventurous house, garage and urban DJ’s.
Due out in mid May, the follow-up single 'Rising Sky' to Merka’s critically acclaimed debut album 'Beserka' provides a radio-friendly, vocal take on the album version. Heidi Levo has provided session vocals for Isaac Hayes, TY, EZ Rollers & The Brand New Heavies with a release also forthcoming on Defected.
Phonetic are proud to present the new Drum Bums 12” ‘The Idea’ in early May. Originally given to five key DJ’s, David Morales and Hector Romero flipped over it, Nic Fanculi loves it and Deep Dish made it their No.1 track – seeing Yousef and Steve Mac produce one the most highly anticipated tracks leading up to summer.
France’s finest funky breaker Maelstrom (real name Joan-Mael Péneau) returns with a storming two-track 12" on the Menu Music imprint in early May. Combining tough techno style groove and straight ahead breakbeat swagger on ‘Rocksteady’ and chunky French style synth wizardry on ‘Disco Funk’ this tough nut of a package will have you punching your dog in the face for looking at you wrong, while savoring the bouquet of fine Cabernet Sauvignon.
Random Movement's latest work on Fabio's Creative Source label hits the club systems with just the right blend of melody, depth and presence in early May. Complete with solid electric piano work, rolling drums, and a catchy vocal riff, 'Face to Face' brings the backs up off the walls and the feet to the floor where they should be. The flip 'Reaching Deeper' is exactly what he was doing in this one. Heavy sampling and filtering on this one, along with straight ahead head-bobbing drums and a warbling wicked bass that moves the cabinets.
Nearly one year since Meck scored it large with Leo Sayer, now Dino Lenny gets on the case, featuring a big riff from Felix. Meck isn't resting on his laurels as he goes down the same musical path again. 'Feels Like Home' utilises the classic riff from Felix's 'Don't You Want Me' but is light years away from what you maybe expecting. With vocals written and sung by the much underrated Dino (known to most of you as the talented Dino Lenny) and road tested by Meck on his DJ travels around the world, this is a true club monster in both its original and the mixes.
Diverted Traffic have hit a real milestone and are ecstatic to present the next instalment to their catalogue in mid April. Their man No Hands has been bizzy with the fizzy and with a little help from his now best friend, and second biggest fan The Bassbin Twins, have concocted this intense refined cocktail of exo-funktastic mayhem!
It may be cold outside but with Miami just around the corner, Hed Kandi are primed and ready with their very own slice of sunshine in the form of De Souza's new single 'Guilty. Released in early April, ‘Guilty’ is a dazzling house anthem that screams of summer time. Remixes come from Bimbo Jones who adds a bouncier bassline, whilst Eddie Thoneik messes with the tempo for a darker journey and arrangement that takes it in a totally different direction. Prepare for one of the biggest dance hits of the year...
The third instalment of Hospital Recordings' "Weapons Of Mass Creation" series is back with a bang and to wet our appetite, they release a taster single in early March. On the A-side, the legendary Blame brings the rabble rousing anthem that is ‘Avalon’, whilst on the flip Apex' track ‘The Space Between’ is one for the vocal crew, taking a detour from his harder hitting productions as Unknown Error.
Grab hold of whatever is nailed down! It’s that time of the year when Backdraft switch the gameplan up and unleash fury for 2007. Passenger are proud to present the warlords Backdraft with their freshest, newest, sickest outing. Passenger, the original home of bassline breaks have had a longterm love affair with the Stockport duo of Karrie Price and Paul Chadwick, who are presently preparing their debut longplayer for Passenger but in the meantime are keeping the masses happy with this filthy breakbeat slab’o’funk. Expect 'Funk Rock' to hit the streets early April.
'What Now' will be the prelude single to Merka’s forthcoming debut album ‘Beserka’, out in April on the Fat Records label. Harking back to earlier, sample-heavy musical era’s, Merka's production features a real mixture of styles that has gained interest from outside of the breaks market including from the drum'n'bass, electro, broken beat, and lounge scenes. “Wicked crossover potential – love it” (Zane Lowe).
A record comes along every now and then that blows your mind, and 'Miscalate' is one of them! The infamous Audiofly (real names Luca Saporito and Anthony Middleton) and Paul Harris (of Dirty Vegas fame) present the beautiful sounds of 'Miscalate'. Out in mid April, the harmonies on this are fanstastic as is for the moody bass groove. On the flip, Partial Arts (aka Ewan Pearson and Al Usher) give it a twisted makeover with a wicked electro bassline.
Fresh from remixing 10 Sui, The Ragga Twins, Bitrok, and Aquasky, as well as compiling their first ever mix album ‘Export 1’, The Drumattic Twins unleash two tracks that appeal to both breaks and house DJs alike. Out any day now on the Finger Lickin imprint, ‘Hyperspeed’ features the vocal talents of the legendary 80’s electro pioneer Captain Rock, with pumping bass and concrete beats laying the foundation for this funk-filled slice of old skool electro inspired breakbeat. Flip over the record and discover the gem which is ‘333’, where rising bass melodies and bleeping riffs add a sense of urgency.
Armed with a refreshingly different take on the beats scene, Stephen Baxter and Lee Richardson (aka Diverted) have suddenly found themselves occupying the enviable position of ‘bright young things’. Following releases on labels such as TCR, Sokolov Sounds and their own Diverted Traffic label, their music has caught all the right ears. With its deep driving beats, ‘Annihilating Rhythms’ (their new single which is due late March on Airfix Recordings) was featured on Ali B’s ‘Air Breaks’ compilation, whilst the B-side ‘Fing’, a bass heavy club monster, has been stirring up sound systems over the last few weeks via a select few DJs who have been blessed with an upfront copy.
Turbofunk's new single ‘Gotta Move’ is currently shaping up to be one of the biggest tastemaker records in clubland, receiving glowing recognition from a broad spectrum of DJs. Released late March on the fantastic Phonetic label, ‘Gotta Move’ is a fresh and extremely large sounding production, with a serious set of remixes courtesy of Air Bureau, Trent Cantrelle & Chris Cox. Turbofunk is a pseudonym of a very well known producer, using a specially designed programme that only he and Thomas Bangalter have… ‘Gotta Move’ is the result…
Following the massive success of singles by Fedde Le Grand and Eric Prydz vs Floyd, Data Records are set to start spring with a bang as they unleash the massive ‘Destination Calabria’ by Alex Gaudino in mid March. ‘Destination Calabria’ has been building itself a cult following since it began life as ‘Destination Unknown’, a track Alex put together with his studio partner Maurizio Nari back in 2003, which featured vocals by Crystal ‘Gypsy Woman’ Waters. Jim Tonique was called in on remix duties, and to add a little something special to his mix, he replayed the irresistible sax hook of the Ibiza classic by Rune, ‘Calabria’.
Eddy Temple Morris’ forthcoming ‘Dance Rocks’ mix is set to alight sound systems from Lebanon to London, and Botchit & Scarper now release a 12" and limited edition 7" sampler for those who seek that special slice of wax. Deekline & Wizard pull out the knee dropper ‘Woah’ with mammoth size beats, space age acid tweaks and bass so low that it could bring the toughest rugby team to their knees. On the flipside indie giants Snow Patrol get the electronic make over thanks to our main man Eddy TM, whilst Snow Lions storms the floor with the filthy grinding rock beast that is ‘Transitions’.
The Freestylers return with a new single 'Electrified' on the Against The Grain label in late March. ’Electrified’ is a choral blend of guitar licks and trademark Freestylers beats which sees MCs Bad Manner, SirReal, Ragman and Ayak spit storytelling lyrics around a soulful rock-esque hook. In contrast, ’Old Skool Fool’ kicks off with an instantly recognisable homage to LL Cool J’s ’Rock The Bells’ and is some more traditional hip-hop breaks fare from the West London funksters. On the flipside, the Deepcut Remix gives the title track a grimier edge, turning it into a true dancefloor filler with bleeps and scratches in all the right places.
Adam Freeland's Marine Parade label relaunches with a stunning new single from K-Swing (born Katie Kabel), who is a well established name in the USA known for rocking the party with her deliciously tasteful mixes of electro, house and deep breaks. Teaming up with Marine Parade regular Beber they present the deep and delicious sounds of 'This Is The Sound', which is outstanding and builds and builds into a monstrous breakbeat soundscape. Flip for the quirky vibes of 'This Was The Sound' on which the beats are out of this world and will rock anywhere to death.
Lee Burridge’s new label carries on perfectly where the much-lauded first release left off with the new joint-single between Lee Burridge and Steve Porter. 'Raw Dog' is a rolling house track which displays the perfect balance between Burridge’s ear for a groove and Porters feel for electronic-funk.
Next up on Koma & Bones' Burrito label is the second release from Dom Gentry (aka 10 Rapid) with the mad vocal talents of Mister Who. Out late March, ‘Run’ is a solid, full vocal, groovy, hip hop masterpiece! A touch of Evil 9? A slice of Dizzee Rascal? Who cares, this is top and is undeniably a further example of 10 Rapid’s excellent work. The remix comes courtesy of Sweden’s finest David Ekenback, a purveyor of fine electric funk who takes the quirkiness of Mister Who’s vocals and adds a robotic electro bass background and 4/4 beats that’ll wet the appetites of the house crew out there.
Clipz & Die return on the Full Cycle imprint in early March with another slice of dancefloor smashing drum'n'bass. Roni Size's VIP Mix keeps the flava of the original tune whilst beefing up the beats and adding a heavy reggae vibe to the bassline. The flip 'Work It Out' is one of the new productions from Clipz & Die featuring Jenna G on vocals – classic Full Cycle vibe from the start.
The Soundtrax imprint unleashes the second 12" sampler to be taken from the forthcoming Big Bud album 'Fear Of Flying Remix Project'. This time it’s an all Russian affair with remix duties being handled by upcoming production duo DK Foyer & Jebar, who strip 'Rice And Beans' down to the bone for a heavy dancefloor workout, whilst on the flip Electrosoul System deliver a superb remix of 'Red Snapper' complete with drum switches and an epic breakdown.
Phil Barry follows up his debut for Streetwise, ‘Make A Move’, with a pair of techy breaks stompers. Out early March, ‘Get A Grip’ is a behemoth of a tune that grinds along with a deep druggy groove and has recently featured on the Lee Coombs mix CD ‘The Land of The Monkey Snake’. The flip ‘Rocker’ is an altogether more firing affair that builds to ecstatic peaks as it works its magic on the dancefloor.
Released late March on the Against The Grain label, ‘There They Go’ is the latest club smasher taken from Krafty Kuts critically acclaimed ’Freakshow’ album and features the slick vocal talents of the unrivalled Dynamite MC. This bumping, hip-hop/breaks classic is co-produced by Dr Luke (of Kelly Clarkson ’Behind These Hazel Eyes’ and ’Since You’ve Been Gone’ US No.1 fame) and also features Finger Lickin’s funky monkey, A-Skillz. Also included in this heavyweight package is a thumping remix from the Body Snatchers (currently one of the hottest remix duo’s in breaks, also known as 30hz and Baobinga).
Tracey Thorn delivers a superb song 'It's All True' (taken from her forthcoming album) over the most deep minimal groove that will put your mind somewhere very nice. The release comes with a mix from Escort (who keeps it chilled but steps up the beat a little and makes the most of Tracey's glorious vocals), whilst Martin Buttrich adds a funk guitar lick and takes you on a very deep trip. The second disc contains a very deep and twisted minimal version in the shape of the DSE Dub, whilst the Kris Menace mix has a cool bass mid riding over the stripped down groove helped along by some funk synth stabs.
Second single for Andy Cato's Pack Up & Dance label
Released late February on Andy Cato's Pack Up And Dance imprint, Journey Man DJ (aka Andy Cato) presents the fresh sounds of 'Shellys'. The bassline on this is better than good, the sound and the weight are perfect and the groove its played in is awesome, making for some very hot dancefloor action. Ob the flip, Digs & Claude Foncept come with a funky little number called 'Good Vibration' and Journeyman DJ supplys you with a no messing 'Shelly's Breakdown Dub' version that is drenched in that sexy bassline.
Baroque's bad boys Shiloh come full tilt on a guest appearance for Hope Recordings. Out in mid March, 'Cafe Del Mariachi' builds energetically around what can only be described as a distant twisted fairground organ, glacial melodies and a fast ping ponging rubber bassline and finally peaks reminiscent of a track from Frankfurt's Eye Q label, for those old enough to remember them. Nick Warren (who is quickly making a name for himself for his solo projects whilst Way Out West are on hiatus) has managed to take out a lot of the light and deliver a proper dark twitching stripped back monster on the flip.
The Scratch Perverts trio are serious contenders in the world of music production, as shown here with the new awesome ‘Stand By’. Released early March on the Supercharged label, 'Stand By' is a truly outstanding and original piece of mid tempo, twisted, electro breaks, proving the trio’s talents extend far beyond the boundaries of turntablism. The track comes complete with a super sonic remix from Krafty Kuts, who shows off his more underground sensibilities on what has to be the strongest release ever on Supercharged.
Fresh business from the consistant Functional Recordings label, as DJ Killer (real name Rafael Francisco Alcantara Vega) supplies the beats this time. Released early March, 'Acid' (as you would expect) has some awesome acid lines and the all important "Acid" sample. Remix duties are taken by Plaza Da Funk (real name Marcello De Angelis) who inject their sound into the track turning it into a must play driving slab of breaks with that all important funk groove.
The sixth release on the fine Track Records label sees Blim break with tradition by collaborating with not one but two people, namely Lee and Steve of Diverted. Released in mid March, 'Give' and 'Take' both weigh on the heavy side, the former going for a syncopated gnarl whilst the latter favours a more straight up bouncy gait.
Camille Jones' new single gets Fedde Le Grande remix
Camille Jones' new single ‘The Creeps’ (due in mid March on Data Records) finds Fedde Le Grande taking a slightly different but no less addictive direction. Sprinkling his trademark magic over a superb club record, Fedde has mixed Camille’s haunting vocals with his raw bass heavy production. The results are huge. Fedde is working with Camille on his debut album and 'The Creeps' is testament to these talents at play. With the imminent release of his first 'Sessions' mix album, this Flying Dutchman is proving to be someone very special. Data Records have started 2007 with a bang… and it continues!
Late February, Little Sister Records release ‘I Want You To Know’, the first single from Charlotte Hatherley’s second solo album ‘The Deep Blue’. ‘I Want You To Know’ has the jagged punk-pop sound that’s receiving huge support - irrepressible hooks and thunderous drums are overlaid with a catchy chorus line. Released on two limited edition 7”s and CD single, the package has two totally exclusive B sides: ‘Sister Universe’ produced by Luke Smith (Clor) and the gently beautiful ‘Suspiria’ produced by Rob Ellis (PJ Harvey).
Juju (real name Neil Zarama) returns with a spanking new single 'Juju' on the Narcohz label in early April. Got to be the biggest tune on the dubstep scene right now, and a rewind everytime, 'Punks' is one big stinking rolling slap of dubfunk! Supported around the globe from DJ Distance, DMZ, N Type, Joe Nice, Pinch & DJ Craze, so watch this mutha go!
The Pigeon Detectives have worked with Kaiser Chiefs producer Cenzo Townshend on their new single 'Romantic Type'. Set to be released late February on the Dance To The Radio label, The Pigeon Detectives are one of the hottest new bands in the UK with 200,000 MySpace plays and a Zane Lowe "Single Of The Week" on BBC Radio 1.
Desyn Masiello’s Alternative Route label have had the most amazing year in 2006, starting with the release of Chris Lake’s 'Changes' and they breeze into 2007 with Andy Slate's (aka Spacegypsie) tech-house outing with 'True Love'. Bridging the gap between house, techno and progressive, this release (due out late February) crosses over for a huge selection of DJs.
CR2 Records follow up Fedde Le Grand’s UK No.1 ‘Put Your Hands Up For Detroit’ and The Eggs' huge No.3 hit ‘Walking Away’ with French artist Arno Cost, teaming up with fellow producer Arias to produce the new single 'Magenta' in mid February. Having already been made "Essential New Tune" on Pete Tong's radio show, this looks set to dominate the clubs over the coming months. If that wasn’t enough we have heavyweight remixes from two of the most in demand producers on the planet, Dave Spoon & Tom Novy. This release is aimed at any fan of big room epic house records.
The long wait for the most requested Burrito recipe of 2006 is finally over with the awesome Koma & Bones ‘Medium Cool’, due late February on their own Burrito imprint. Since its inception in early 2006, Koma & Bones have been dropping both mixes of this track at their gigs around the globe to massive reaction everytime. The Bassbin Twins remix here comes with a pounding 4/4 beat, wobbly, techy loops, a filthy synth line, and the coolest old school bleeps and breaks that’ll take you back to 1992 again.
Ed Solo & Skool Of Thought have been enjoying the lime light of late, and with their debut album ‘Random Acts Of Kindness’ just around the corner, the duo keep the pressure on with the new single 'Babylon Breaks'. Out late February on the Against The Grain label, ‘Babylon Breaks’ draws on reggae influences yet it avoids the all the usual cliches, sampling King Tubby’s ‘Leaving Babylon’. On the flip the guys come correct with a funky low slung groover with a funky bassline and vocoded vocals showing this duo have many styles.
Following the huge reception to Rebel Sketchy’s last single ‘Submarine’, he has delivered another fine 12"'Lilo' (due late February on the Payback Project label) that steps things up once again. First concieved when messing around with a lilo and a drumstick (!), hence the name, he then doctored the sounds and the recording and added them to his drum patterns. A heavy bassladen bubbla of a tune ‘Lilo’ has his signature bleeps and squeaks all over it as well as an appearance from Mr Bukue One. Myagi remixes the previous single ‘Submarine’ turning the former groover into a rollin piecewith bits cut up from the original to keep the flavour.
One of the original dubstep pioneers, Benga (real name Beni Uthman) hits heavy with his first release on Tempa in late February. Something of a departure from his usual sound, ’Crunked-Up’ is a grime and crunk influenced banger that has been ripping up dancefloors worldwide emerging as THE Benga anthem of the moment. Finally making a vinyl appearance (taken from Benga’s early 2006 street CD album ‘Newstep’) ’Electro Music’ has been caned on dub by N-Type (recently voted Best DJ in the dubstepforum.com awards). Completing the package is Benga in deep techno-influenced mode, ’Skunk Tip’ has been at the centre of pioneering FWD>> resident and Rinse FM DJ Youngsta’s sets for some time now, characteristic of his deeper-than deep selection.
Ben Watt’s Buzzin Fly kicks off 2007 in the same way they ended 2006 – deep and electronic. Sounding like Giorgio Moroder on horse tranquilizers, “Road Of Injury’ (Stuttgart's Alexander Maier's debut for Buzzin’ Fly) is an instant dance floor killer, energized by widescreen pulsing trancey washes, an irresistible alt-Euro-disco b-line and an insistent plucked Kraftwerkian synth melody. On the flip is another original, the richly evocative ‘Made In Nebraska’, a throbbing electronic landscape of cascading pianos and dark sweeps. This is dense, modern main room electronic house at its best.
Brighton bad boy Nu Balance (real name Alistair Ash) lands on the Bingo Beats label in late February with two distinct flavours. ‘Bounce Back’ is a hyperactive digital party track that's been tested by the likes of Zinc, Hype, Friction and Andy C and comes guaranteed to elicit a strong dancefloor response. ‘Corinthians’ is an infectious little Latino number named after the Brazilian football team, supported by DJ Marky.
London based Breakage (real name Jamie Boyle) turns in his first release for Shy FX' Digital Soundboy in late February with the double a-side ‘Loved U So/I'n'I’. This follows a multitude of releases for various labels that began with work for the legendary Reinforced, including the remix of the equally legendary Doc Scott classic ‘Here Come The Drums’, and reached a pinnacle last year with the release of his debut album on Bassbin. Both tracks here are representative of Breakages rollin dub edged style, whilst at the same time being of different intensities.
Due late February on the Melodic label, 'Monday’s Arms' is the latest single from Sheffield rockers Harrisons, and it’s further proof that this is a band to watch for 2007. Eschewing the upstart leanings of previous releases 'Blue Note' and 'Wishing Well', this latest single finds Harrisons in full-on, floor-filling disco mode, but in a down-to-earth, working class hero kind of way. We ain’t talking Scissor Sisters here...
The Plump boys are back late February with the stomping floor filler 'Mad Cows'. Yet ‘Mad Cow’, the cult tune making the wait less painful for the eagerly anticipated new album (expected Spring 2007) from Laboratoire Plump, has become so huge it has even spawned its own dance. The Horn Dance, as it has become known, symbolises the cult status of ‘Mad Cow’, when played hundreds of enraptured ravers herd in front of the DJ pit making horn signs on their heads as they moo along in unison. Now fabled by Pete Tong and the online breakbeat community, the craze has spread across the country and greets Lee Rous and Andy Gardner whenever they play.
Leeds electro-punk stalwarts Yes Boss unleash a first single 'See It Through' from their forthcoming debut album 'Look Busy' on the Dance To The Radio label. Ignore all labels, Yes Boss cannot be categorised. Working in tune with the original ideas of hip-hop, they are unique amongst acts right now. Gripping and vital, Yes Boss are making music like no one else, blending grime, hip-hop, punk and techno to create a sound that’s 21st century, true to itself and others. Questioning and angry, Yes Boss are a kick to the conscience.
Top northern dubstep DJ Distinction finally releases his long awaited debut on Dub Police in late February. 'Afterlife' sets the tone with unsettling choral chants, film score strings and bleeping electro synths, 'Bug Chaser' features filtered slimy synths and intensive drum break action, whilst the final track sees Distinction team up with Omen from Random Trio for 'Overdose', raising the levels with distorted breaks and square wave grime synths giving this hard edged collabo a distinctly dark side.
Tom Real and The Rogue Element pull out their fattest beats to date and destroy clubs all over with the sounds of their new single 'Feel My', due mid February on the Functional imprint. Purposely written to appeal to more experimental DJs out there from breaks, electro and house, 'Feel My' focuses on a pulsing bassline and key change, building into a massive organ section. It features a rather tasty remix from Italy’s golden boy Madox, who continues his run of excellent remixes by funking the ass off this.
Digital Breaks Foundation's single 'Come Closer' has been on the scene for a while and was due for release late 2006 but due to the unfortunate closure of Intergroove has been held back until now… Out late January, 'Come Closer' is awesome upfront breakbeat with an absolutely stunning electro mix from the up-and-coming boy 8‑Bit on the flip, who has released and remixed Southern Fried and Skint amongt others!
The Lot 49 label returns early February with a massive package from newcomer 30Hz. His original ‘Space Age’ comes with a remix from Alex Metric, and on the flip he joins forces with label-boss Meat Katie for their collaborative effort titled ‘With You’. Finally, the package also features a 30Hz collaboration with October titled ‘Over Cooked’.
Sub Focus kicks off the Ram 2007 schedule in mid February with one of the most anticipated records of the last couple of years. 'Special Plate' is so in demand that Ram had been threatened with it being bootlegged if a release date wasn’t set! Originally being held back for the debut Sub Focus album due later in 2007, it was decided that this track be bought forward for a single release. The flip ‘Druggy’ is brand new, fresh out of the studio and only being aired in demo form by Sub Focus and Andy C at various high profile events.
'No Sun In The Sky' is the latest single to be dropped from Kraak & Smaak´s debut album 'Boogie Angst' and talk about saving the best till last. DJ Kicks hot shot Henrik Schwarz leads the charge with a seven-minute deep house extravaganza that climaxes with the lush chords of the original. Tom Belton, fresh from mixing Jamiroquai and Coldcut, turns out a melodic main room house mix. Finally, Noogman (actually an alter ego of the K&S boys) is a heavy breaks mix with a superb funk guitar breakdown - destined to be a hit on the floor.
The 'Labrat' track that cemented Backdraft (real names Karrie Price & Paul Chadwick) into the breakbeat sidewalk of fame in 2004 is back and revamped into a nasty, grimey, filthy affair. Released in mid February on the Passenger imprint, the A-side is taken on by label bosses Aquasky who delve into their past and go back to the 2003 sound when their music was tough and militant, showing that they haven’t lost their touch at knocking out a tune that rattles club ceilings and throws satellites out of orbit. The flip is crafted by Mampi Swift, taking the lead from the dub fusion of the original and mixing it up with a strong bashment feel.
Hospital Recordings' finest High Contrast returns with the massive fast soul anthem 'Everything's Different'. Released mid February, ‘Everything’s Different’ is classic High Contrast fodder with subtlety and poise and belting vocals of legendary session singer Ian Shaw, not to mention a devastating hook to set the dancefloor on fire. ‘Greenscreen’ on the flip allows Eastern influenced horns to collide with electro bleeps before a monstrous squelchy drop.
Orbital were that rare thing in dance music - they made classic singles, and albums that didn't sound ten years out of date the moment the euphoria wore off. So, a few years after their decision to disband, Paul Hartnoll displays where he's been heading in the years since. Released late January on the Kids label, the rather fantastic 'Patchwork Guilt' starts with a melancholy blend of warping synths and melodies, creating a relaxed, textured intro before the electro beats and keyboard line scythe through it. The flip 'Gloopy' is more of a bouncy electronica thing that cuts operatic voices and heavy metal guitars into the mix.
Join Mason and Princess Superstar for a pop-soaked electro baptism as they release ‘Perfect (Exceeder)’ on Data Records late January. Over the past few months Mason's instrumental of 'Exceeder' has whipped clubland into a frothing mass of hysteria, becoming a permanent fixture in the record boxes of everyone from underground electro noodlers to mainstream spinners. Based around a minimal, bouncing electro riff the original track has been blended together with Princess Superstar's 'Perfect' to create a crossover anthem steeped in underground credibility.
West are back with possibly their best tune so far! Released late January, 'Listen' is a slamming electro-esque breaks workout that literally smashes the dancefloor apart. Rock solid beats and bass plus a killer lead provide the music, whilst Lady Waks adds just enough of her sublime voice to create a proper monster. On the flip Steelzawheelz turns in a funked-up breaks reworking that rounds this release of nicely.
Unbalanced Jack make it onto the Broke imprint in style with the phenomenal 'Kickin Rhyme Steady'. Out later this month, the bassline on this is 100% awesome skipping about all over the shop but held together by the solid heavy beats. On the flip the mighty Autobots pump up the track with steroids giving it a much more nasty edge.
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