OCCIBEL Vinyl & CDs

Review: Phosphor continues its vinyl-only series with a vibrant tribute to the golden age of 2000s electro. This four-track release traverses the spectrum of the genre, from sun-soaked melodies to dark, club-ready cuts. Blue Vision, the duo behind the label, sets the stage with 'Making Up My Mind', a quintessential electro track brimming with groovy basslines, soaring melodies, and relentless drums. Parisian talent Occibel delivers another dancefloor gem with 'Shake The Future', a vibrant banger fueled by catchy melodies and infectious percussion. Kolter takes the helm on the B-side, venturing into darker territory with 'Electronic Mind', a haunting and evocative track driven by powerful vocals and mesmerizing melodies. Eric OS closes the release with 'Navigator', a journey through diverse influences, blending hard-hitting rhythms with moments of introspection and hope. 'Exploration Begins' is a testament to the enduring appeal of electro, showcasing both its timeless qualities and its potential for future evolution.

Review: Novaj Records presents its second vinyl release - 'Space Energy', an electrifying compilation EP inviting listeners on an interstellar journey through a wide array of sonic cosmologies, in good stead with the nascent trend of space-age acid house emergent of late. Lauching into the boundless realms of space, the likes of Donnie Cosmo's 'Venus Transit', MLink's 'Frequencia' and Sunaas' 'Flash Dancer' are all as enchanting as they are out-of-body-experience-inducing.

Review: Occibel cranks up the decibels on this new outing for the fledging label Playful. The artist taps into a fresh tech and minimal sound from the off with 'Behind The Walls' spinning out on disco stabs and phased basslines. The kinetic 'Look Around You' then pangs more prickly drum programming and spaced-out synth work with sensuous spoken words and 'Freak' layers up balmy pads and bright, shiny and sugar melodies for a nice colourful exploration. 'The Mess' shuts down with more menace thanks to its monstrous bassline and snappy drum hits.