Review: Though now almost at 20 releases deep, the EEE label and production outfit remain a mystery to us. What we do know is that since debuting in 2017 they have served up a steady stream of playful, charming, accessible edits and mash-ups across the house and minimal spectrum. 'Dubs 4 Clubs' takes a classic vocal that keeps pushing on with thudding kicks, a rolling bassline and enough synth detail to make it a standout in plenty of Ibiza sets this summer.
Review: Bjorn Wagner's all-star tropical disco band, Magic Source, loves a cover version. The outfit's first EP boasted, as a bonus cut, a superb (and colourful) take on Tom Tom Club's 'Genius of Love'. On this belated sequel, they've gone one better by re-inventing A Guy Called Gerald's pioneering UK house classic 'Voodoo Ray' as a driving, all-live tropical disco jam. It's cleverly done, with all the key elements being replicated, sometimes in canny ways (the acid lines now become Clavinet lines, the synth-bass is now bass guitar, and so on). It's a fantastic cover all told and one that is far more than a smile-inducing novelty. Also superb is flip-side 'Interplanetary Bounce', a spacey jazz-funk/disco fusion cut rich in fuzzy horns, vintage synth sounds and shuffling drums.
Santonio Echols - "Piano In The Light" (Emanuell Echols mix)
Brian Kage - "This Saturday Night"
Ryan Sadorus - "Down Below"
Review: Upstairs Asylum is kicking off the year in some style with a couple of killer new EPs. This one is the first in what is presumably a new series to showcase the talents of the Motor City. Mike Clark & Marcus Harris get things underway with 'Hey' which has a subtly uplifting feel thanks to the bright, sustained chords and cuddly drums. Santonio Echols's 'Piano In The Light' (DJ Emanuell Echols mix) is laidback, playful deep house with magical chord work and Brian Kage brings his classy depths to the smooth grooves of 'This Saturday Night.' Ryan Sadorus brings things to a close with the smoky 'Down Below.'
Review: Some artists are always going to be a rich vein to mine for DJs looking to get instant results with the tunes they play. This 80s soul legend is one of those whose buttery smooth vocals only ever need a little extra weight adding to the drums to make them perfect for club deployment. Here we get a version of 'Nothing Can Come Between Us' with soulful drums that have a nice dusty, lo-fi edge and some smart melodies. On the flip is the more intimate 'King Of Sorrow' which becomes a melancholic groove for cosy back rooms.
Review: Originally released in 1983 as a B-side, 'Bad Luck' gets a fresh perspective thanks to seasoned producer and musician Eric Kupper, who refines this hidden gem with clean edits that amplify its timeless charm. The vocal edit on Side-1 bursts with energy, blending soulful vocals, funky guitar licks and sweeping disco strings. The arrangement perfectly balances soul, funk and pop influences, creating a groove designed to hook listeners in and remind them of the good disco nights. It's the kind of track that commands attention and keeps feet moving effortlessly. The instrumental edit on Side-2 lets the lush instrumentation take centre stage. With a focus on rhythm and melody, this version highlights the song's finely tuned balance of disco and funk, making it equally suited for dancefloors or late-night listening sessions and the horn section in the chorus really takes flight here.
Mark Knight & James Hurr - "You Take Me Higher" (6:12)
Friend Within - "Chain" (5:43)
Martin Ikin & Winnie Ama - "Control It" (4:51)
Flashmob & Raumakustik - "Club Talk" (5:45)
Review: Toolroom's 'sampler' series, which rounds up previously digital-only releases and sticks them out on action-packed 12" EPs, reaches its sixteenth instalment. Given the format, you'll be unsurprised to discover that there's plenty of bona-fide peak-time heat on show, starting with Mark Knight and James Hurr's excitable, filter-heavy, string-laden disco-house bomb 'You Take Me Higher'. Friend Within offers a scintillating blend of heavy acid bass, glassy-eyed female vocal samples, weighty beats and subtle disco samples on the superb 'Chain', while Martin Ikin and Winnie Ama opt for even heavier drums, warped bass, creepy electronics and dead-eyed spoken word vocals on the sweat-soaked 'Control It'. To round things off, we're treated to the tech-tinged funky house bounce of Flashmob and Raumakustik's percussion -rich 'Club Talk'.
Review: 'Unreleased Stuff Part 'I dives into the rich vault of Charles Webster, a revered name in UK house with a career spanning over three decades. This release brings out three hidden gems from his archives that capture the depth of his skill in minimal and tech house production. Side-1 kicks off with 'The Same Thing (instrumental mix)', a refined deep house track with a tasteful nod to 90s acid influences. Over on Side-2, 'Halftoo' delivers a melodic deep house vibe that feels fresh despite its 1997 origins. Rounding out the collection, 'FYU' combines smooth, classy production with that unmistakable 90s touch, creating a sound that feels timeless yet distinctly of its era.
Review: Matt Jam Lamont & Scott Diaz first joined forces more than a decade and a half ago and have been at it ever since, remixing Raze, Craig David, All Saints, Adina Howard, Rosie Gaines and more, as well as making waves with DJ appearances like their iconic B2B Glastonbury appearance. Having formed their Undagrnd Freqz label in 2020, serving up a brace of floor-slaying classics including a collaboration with US garage pioneer Todd Edwards, and 'Haribo' with Smokey 'Bubblin' B, clocking up more than a million streams and 36 million views as part of Fred Again's now legendary Boiler Room session. Their latest, 'The Best of Both Worlds', nods at their skill for fusing the best elements of both house and garage across four tracks of razor-sharp vocal chops, bumpin' beats and classy production flavours. Absolutely essential.
Review: Nenor is back on the Fossils imprint with another showcase of raw yet soulful take on deep house following some fine moments on the cultured likes of Mahogani, Defected, and Nervous. This time out he offers up four tracks that have been meticulously crafted, starting with 'The Underground', a dark, emotive groove with menacing pads and organs percussive sprinkles. 'No More' offers a deep, dubby sound with a rather haunting gospel sample while 'What's Coming' is a percussive, high-energy offering with twitchy pads, jumbled bass and beats and a characterful vocal. Closing out is 'The Get Down,' a raw jam that perfectly embodies Nenor's organic, vintage-inspired style - high on fun, classy and charm.
Review: New Omar S alert! The FXHE label boss wastes no time in dropping heat this New Year as he once again hooks up with vocalist Desire for this latest house gem. Up first is 'Something Real', in the classic Omar S mould of laying down a deep, heartfelt drum line and then topping it with a mad emotive vocal hook that is filled with r&b goodness and joined by the most subtle cosmic chord motifs. 'Hard Leaf Rag' follows next, so raw it will make your ears tickle with its busted drums and serrated stabs. Then flip it over for 'Conant Leaf Rag', which pairs warbling synth sounds with dusty hi-hats and tight kicks for a nice, full mind and body workout.
Dennis Ferrer - "How Do I Let Go" (feat TK Brooks)
Rain: A Lil Louis Painting - "Give It Up" (Masters At Work club mix)
Mood II Swing - "Sunlight In My Eyes"
Kimara Lovelace - "Misery" (Lil Louis club mix)
Review: Now under new ownership (international dance music powerhouse Armada Music, fact fans), long-serving New York house imprint King Street Sounds is doing a good job in showcasing gems from its vast archives. This second label sampler contains four more genuine must-have cuts. First up, there's a chance to admire the deep, soulful house wonder that is Dennis Ferrer's 2008 hook-up with honeyed vocalist K.T. Brooks, 'How Do I Let Go'. It's followed by Masters at Work's deliciously loose, disco-influenced deep house revision of 'Give It Up' by Lil' Louis' Rain project (first released in 2000), Mood II Swing's DIY Soundsystem favourite 'Sunlight In My Eyes' (easily one of the greatest deep house jams of all time) and Lil' Louis's swinging garage-house rub of Kimra Lovelace's 'Misery'.
Review: The latest from The Robinson - that'll be Milan-based brothers Marco and Riccardo Augeri to you - opens with the jazz, live-sounding and improvised 'Life Decisions' with its cosmic synths reaching up to the stars over raw beats. 'Unconscious Habits' follows on, bringing deep, dubby drums, organic percussive lines and a deep jungle vibe while 'Running Algorith' is another humid deep house closer with warm, diffuse pads and a spiralling of deft percussion.
Review: Richard Barrett is the man behind the Bitter End alias and he returns to it here to deliver some more beautifully soulful, full-bodied house music that follows on from his collaboration with Roisin Murphy. Known for his impeccable production, that shows here as the tracks are rich and lush and perfect for playing nice and loud. The grooves hit all the right spots, blending smooth vibes with infectious rhythms and in the case of 'Adjustment -> Love' delightful vocal hook. 'Maladjustment -> Love' is another sparkly cut with retro-future appeal and 'Something Going Nowhere' has a sleazy swagger to it.
Review: Swiss producer Shaka returns to Yore for an atemporal jaunt in the vein of spiritual deep house, building on the long-form jazz and blues gushes pioneered by Joaquin Claussell and his ilk. Hailed the European Glenn Underground by his releasing label, Shaka brings to our ears a headily original piano purgation over a depth-swelling hummer of a house beat on 'Build On Revolution', as if to describe the revolutionary potential of beauty and embellishment over solid bases of beat-driven competence. Things get more swung from there, with 'Consitand Blues' verging twinkly-soulful garage house, before two afterthoughts grace a much glossier and mellower B-side.
Review: Soul Quest proudly present their latest release from Berlin DJ and producer Jean Jez, who lays down an abstemious, soulful exercise in sound here. Brought forward by 'Did You Want To Dance' and 'Take Me To The Moon' on the A, Jez riffs on the outstanding feelings of his recent Kedi Bounce parties thrown in eastern Berlin with a perfect pair of warming soulful deep house numbers. The vibe maintains itself on the B, which starts out percussive and yet prefers a more gradual incline into depth and profundity; 'What Is It Tell Me' is our prowler of choice.
Reel It In (feat feat Madaline - Fingers remix) (5:53)
Between Us (feat Madaline - instrumental dub) (6:40)
Reel It In (feat Madaline - Summer Acid Burn) (5:49)
Review: 40 years have now passed since Larry Heard made his first record. Heard is, of course, without peers when it comes to deep house - he pretty much drew up the blueprint after all - though he does occasionally invite other producers to bask in his reflected glow. That's the case here, as he and Memphis-based Michael Kuntzman (an artist who has previously released music on Heard's Alleviated imprint) deliver a notable collaborative 12". Guest performer Maddaline whispers, sings and vocalises her way through the dreamy, richly electronic and sonically pristine 'Between Us', which is accompanied by a typically gorgeous 'Instrumental Dub'. There are two versions of 'Reel It In' - also featuring Maddaline - too: the deep tech-house shuffle of Heard's'Fingers Mix' and the back-to-Chicago-87 flex of Kuntzman's 'Summer Acid Burn' take.
Review: James Burnham aka Burnski aka Instinct aka a UK production powerhouse is back with another sure-to-sell-out release, this time on his new label Gravitate. It comes under a new alias of the same name and is pure dance floor heat with the opener layering up silky tech beats with some nice playful synth lines and chords adding the fun. The second cut is a disco-tinged and low-slung sound and then some garage vibes influence the drums of the B1 next to freaky vocals. Things close down with deeper sounds for late night and cosy back rooms.
Review: Smart dresser and dedicated beard groomer Manuold - real name Emmanuele Macagnone - has notched up some excellent releases since making his bow in 2017, including admired EPs on House Puff and Madhouse Records. Here he brings his classy brand of deep house to GLBDOM for the first time. With its squelchy synth-bass, loose-limbed garage-house drums, gospel vocal samples and warm pads, opener 'Jersey' sounds like a long-lost Kerri Chandler gem. He continues the retro-futurist theme on the low-slung and jazzy 'Hot & Crunchy', before doffing a cap to deep house/tech-house fusion on the Tenaglia-influenced 'Zanzibar'. Over on the flip, 'Night Long' is a chunky slab of 21st century New Jersey deep house with an Italian twist, while 'In The Clouds' sees him successfully lean into his Italo-house influences while retaining a dreamy and chunky deep house flex.
Myrna Summers & The Combined Choirs Of The Refreshing Strings - "So Much To Live For" (Joe Claussell Underground Ministry) (5:14)
Bishop Jeff Banks & The Revival Temple Mass Choir - "Jerusalem" (Joe Claussell Hymn) (8:29)
Review: Spiritual house diviner Joaquin "Joe" Claussell reissues his latest song of praise for the frankly named Gospel Music According To Joe Claussell imprint, documenting two obscure but rhapsodic ecstasies in kick-pumping form, this time on transparent 12" blue vinyl. First up is Myrna Summers' 'So Much To Live For', an affirmation to which Claussell testifies his allegiance through swirling piano backings and hand-clapping encomia. Then there's Bishop Jeff Banks with 'Jerusalem', to which Claussell leads a responsive liturgical hymn, mind-zapping us right on back to said promised land through rising walking basses and glorious sampled hollers.
Il Letto La Porta La Musica (Don Carlos remix) (5:26)
Losing My Feelings (6:17)
Love Calling (5:46)
Review: This EP from Peter LC is a vibrant and soulful exploration of house music, showcasing the Italian producer's versatility and deep passion for the genre. It's a captivating journey through infectious grooves, uplifting melodies, and soulful vocals. The original mix sets the tone with its irresistible energy, while the Don Carlos remix adds a touch of Latin flair and percussive drive. On the flipside, 'Losing My Feelings' delves into deeper, more introspective territory, its melancholic chords and ethereal vocals creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. 'Love Calling' closes the EP with a feel-good vibe, its warm melodies and soulful vocals leaving the listener on a high note. This is a must-have for any house music enthusiast, showcasing the diverse sounds and infectious energy of the Italian scene.
Carol Bailey - "Understand Me (Free Your Mind)" (Dreams Piano remix) (6:22)
The True Underground Sound Of Rome - "Secret Doctrine" (feat Stefano Di Carlo) (6:05)
Don Carlos - "Boy" (6:17)
Lady Bird - "Jazzy Doll" (Odyssey dub) (7:16)
Review: Italo house has enjoyed quite a resurgence in the last few years, with plenty of new releases popping up that sound convincingly authentic in their production and aesthetic. It's always nice to savour the real deal, though, and it doesn't get much more real than the one and only Don Carlos when it comes to direct-from-the-source dreamy 90s peninsula house. Here, the Don compiles a comprehensive selection of classics from the genre. With shimmering pads, soulful vocals and synth-flute leads aplenty, this bygone LP is steeped in both nostalgia and not-so-subtle reminders that not too many of the more recent pretenders have added a great deal to the form. Highlights permeate the comp, from Montego Bay's 'Everything' to Kwanzaa Posse's 'Wicked Funk'. The unabashed positivity of Golem's 'Music Sensations' makes for a welcome addition, as does the driving synth energy of Eagle Parade's 'I Believe'. In truth, the LP doesn't put a foot wrong, transporting listeners to the balmy hedonism of golden-age Rimini. Though it's never good to generalise, the old adage 'Italians do it better' certainly seems apt here.
Let Me Be Your Fantasy (Dimitri From Paris club mix) (6:14)
Let Me Be Your Fantasy (Dimitri From Paris dub) (7:16)
Let Me Be Your Fantasy (Masters At Work Clap Yo Hands dub) (7:25)
Let Me Be Your Fantasy (Moplen remix) (5:03)
Let Me Be Your Fantasy (Mousse T Fantastic Shizzle mix) (6:00)
Let Me Be Your Fantasy (Blackchild remix) (6:00)
Let Me Be Your Fantasy (Two Soul Fusion remix) (12:05)
Review: Anane's soulful vocal delivery takes centre stage on her reimagining of this evergreen disco cut - originally crafted by Love Symphony Orchestra in 1978 - rebooted here through a series of new mixes from some massive house names. Dimitri From Paris delivers two irresistible cuts, his club mix a vibrant and energetic journey through classic house sounds, while his dub strips things back to a hypnotic groove. Masters At Work's 'Clap Yo Hands Dub' injects a dose of infectious energy, while Moplen's remix takes a more atmospheric approach, its swirling synths and hypnotic rhythms creating a mesmerising soundscape. Mousse T's 'Fantastic Shizzle Mix' adds a touch of soulful bounce, while Blackchild's remix delves into deeper, more tribal-infused territories. Two Soul Fusion's remix closes out the collection with a smooth and uplifting vibe, its soulful melodies and infectious groove leaving a lasting impression. A true classic reimagined through the lens of a host of diverse, talented producers.
Review: Frits Wentink and Wolf Music join forces once again for the fourth edition in their collaborative series. This EP delivers four floor-filling heaters, each track crafted with Wentink's signature blend of deep house grooves and infectious melodies. 'Rhythm & Blaze', a track made exclusively for the Wolf Music 15th Birthday celebration, sets the tone with its pulsating energy and soulful vibe. 'Lost In The Moment' and 'Turbo Passion' keep the energy high with their infectious rhythms and captivating melodies, while 'Nocturnal' takes a slightly darker turn, exploring deeper, more hypnotic soundscapes. With its impeccable production and undeniable dancefloor appeal, this EP is a must-have for any house music enthusiast.
Review: An elusive producer, shrouded in mystery, emerges with a fresh batch of irresistible edits. With a knack for crafting infectious grooves and a growing reputation amongst discerning DJs, this anonymous artist is set to ignite dancefloors with their latest offering. Having garnered support from tastemakers like Hunne, CC: Disco and Shanti Celeste, this release is guaranteed to ignite dancefloors and satisfy discerning DJs. 'Forgive Me 1' sets the tone with its irresistible energy, while 'Forgive Me 2' offers a slightly different flavour, maintaining the infectious groove while exploring new sonic territory. Expect a collection of expertly crafted cuts, brimming with energy and primed for peak-time moments. With its limited availability, this a must-have for those seeking to add some heat to their record bags.
Review: Three standout tracks from Dave Lee's 2023 album Metamorphosis - which he dropped under his AC Soul Symphony alias - now get pulled apart and reworked by the one and only Dub-disco king Ray Mang. First comes 'It's Got To Be Love' with its super funky and bubbly bass and lush string elegance, then he flips 'Tradewinds' into a deeper, still lush and lavish instrumental disco gem that is seductive and warm for the winter months. Last but not least, 'K-Jee' brings an infectious groove to the dance floor with a little more percussive energy and upbeat bounce - but again swooning strings are the icing on the cake. All three of these are classy and sophisticated reworks from the one and only Mang.
Review: GLBDOM Classic drops a second vinyl release here in the form of a various artists' selection of vintage house sounds. Manuold's 'Hey Sunshine' gets things underway with some back-to-the-90s kick drums and playful horns with uplifting vocal samples making for a sweet vibe. Evenn's 'Inner Dance' is a nice raw house bumper with vamping chords and some soulful Detroit chords in the background. Scart Lead then keeps things silky with the smooth pads and muted melodies of 'Everglades' and Esspee and Kid Only close out with two more ageless house gems that pair dance for clout with heartfelt soul.
Review: B2 Recordings does house music deeper than most and for its 16th outing, it is Cabin Luv Affair that steps up with a fresh four-tracker. 'Behind Red Curtains' kicks off and is a nice percussive number that is loose and seductive. 'Palmeiras 93' brings some sunshine, as you might expect from a tune with such a name, and the grovers flow freely and with a happy spirit. 'Look I Told You' heads back indoors for some early evening shapeshifting with nice dusty drums and jazzy chords and 'Not Afraid About This' is a nice vocal number with some hooky pads and a classy sense of soul.
Review: It was in 2007 when the brilliant Mike Huckaby dropped this second instalment in his My Life With The Wave series and once again he joined the dots between deep house, techno and Detroit with effortless style. The four cuts are all made using only his Waldorf Wave synthesiser which gives them a specific aesthetic. 'Let The Dancer Do His Thing' is a slow but persuasive groove with daubs of synth and dusty drums. 'Phuture' is a little more intense with some jazz melody adding the soul and 'Baseline 313' is one of a few tunes Huckaby put out with big fat basslines with an old school edge. 'Another Fantasy' shuts down with some nice playful leads and an inviting skip to the drums.
Mood II Swing - "Closer" (feat Carole Sylvan - King Street Moody club mix) (6:17)
Ananda Project - "Cascades Of Colour" (feat Gaelle - Wamdue Black extended mix) (6:46)
Review: Earlier this year, legendary NY house label King Street Sounds was acquired by Armada Music. The Dutch imprint plans to reissue many of the well-known - and lesser-celebrated - gems from the King Street vaults in the months and years ahead. To kick things off, they've delivered this vinyl sampler featuring some of the stable's most admired cuts of all time. So, we get Dennis Ferrer's iconic remix of Blaze and Barbara Tucker's gospel-powered soulful house anthem, 'Most Precious Love', the 'King Street Mix' of Jovonn's legendary deep, bumpin' tribute to New Jersey's Club Zanzibar, 'Back To Zanzibar', Mood II Swing's hot and heavy 'moody club mix' of their own Carole Sylvan collaboration 'Closer' and the all-time deep house classic that is the Wamdue Black extended rework of 'Cascades of Colour' by Ananda Project. Simply essential!
Review: Anil Aras' latest effort strikes with unexpected force, blending deep house with subtle nods to dub and techno. The EP has a tangible weight, where basslines resonate with a satisfying depth and rhythms maintain a fluid, hypnotic quality. Aras doesn't rush, opting for a slow, deliberate groove that feels like a late-night conversation. There's no push for flashiness, but rather a focus on space, restraint and atmosphere, allowing each track to breathe and shift in an organic, almost meditative fashion.
Review: This 7" record from SNIPS delivers two summer dancefloor gems perfect for hip-hop heads. On Side-1.
'A Spread Called Quest' is a downtempo, jazz-fused instrumental packed with great samples from the legendary A Tribe Called Quest, creating a nostalgic yet fresh vibe. For Side-2, 'Kool Summer' offers a house track featuring the classic 'Summertime' sample, famously popularised by Will Smith's 1991 hit of the same name. This track brings a smooth, laid-back groove, making it an essential addition to any summer playlist. With its blend of jazz, hip-hop and house, A Spread Called Quest is a great example of the 45 community thriving with rare and classy urban gems.
Review: American neo-soul pin-up D'Angelo has released a couple of the smoothest records of the last 30 years. He even made a welcome comeback in the mid 2010s and added some more magic to his cannon. Here Kero Uno remixes a couple of his tunes and ups their funky quotient to make them more suitable to dancefloors. First, he flips 'Spanish Joint' into a key-laced and funky workout with low-slung, hip-swinging grooves sure to seduce next to the zippy synth leads. On the flip is his hot take on 'Feel Like Makin' Love', another bona-fide gem full of heart and soul.
Review: Frizner Electric label head and Detroit talent Ladymonix brings plenty of fine summer sounds on her new EP which comes not that long after last year's still fresh Steppin' Out EP. This newline is a chance for her to show her many different styles. It combines jazzy, bright, deep, big house grooves with plenty fo well dug out samples and layered percussion. 'High Notes' kick off with gorgeous synth work and breezy sax motifs next to seductive vocals and 'Blow Your Mind' then bumps that bit harder and deeper. 'A Bop' is classic Motor City house with squelchy bass and loose drums and Big Beat' brings the vibes with more swirling chord work and crisp boom-bap drums.
Review: Makin' Moves ushers in 2025 with a fiery four-tracker from Detroit's Javonntte, a producer whose journey through the city's vibrant musical landscape is etched into every groove. A veteran of the early 90s house scene, Javonntte honed his craft alongside luminaries like Blake Baxter and Amp Fiddler, his experience evident in the sheer breadth and depth of this collection. 'Chicago' is a pulsating homage to his hometown, its jacking rhythms and soulful chords imbued with the spirit of the city's dance music legacy. 'Good Vibration' exudes a radiant energy, its infectious melodies and uplifting vocals a testament to the joyous side of house music. 'What' takes a darker turn, its hypnotic groove and yearning vocals conjuring images of late-night introspection and soul-searching on the dancefloor. 'White Wing Dove' is a glorious ascent, its gospel-tinged chords and soaring vocals are exemplary of Javonntte's ability to weave spirituality and dancefloor energy into a cohesive whole. A great reminder that Javonntte's deep roots in house music continue to nourish his creativity
Review: Giles Smith and James Priestley have left an indelible mark on house and techno culture in the UK, not least thanks to their fabled Secretsundaze parties. These days they're taking that iconic stamp into the studio, and following up on strong turns for Mule Musiq and Phonica last year they're finally dropping a full length EP on their own label. The quality is as high as you would expect, from spicy, snarling fire starter "Mezcal" to the transcendental swirl of "Stand Up". On the B side, "Testing" takes things a little deeper with a heady stomp and a tricky disposition that will satisfy all the selectors.
Review: Taking squarely after Dreamatic house music while offering it a fresh, crisp twist, producer Space Ghost shares his latest record 'Dream Tool' with the world. We all dream, every night, even when we don't remember our dreams: but with a title like 'Dream Tool', we're left to wonder just what kind of gizmo, gadget or utility might aid our circadian best life. Music, perhaps? A sense of detached curiosity is gotten across from the jump here, bringing flighty red carpet rides across ceaseless cosmogenies of sound on 'East Of The Lake', as vestiges of funk, cosmic disco and Italo are released into the ether, added to the trailblazed chromic nebula of space. The title track moves similarly, said dream tool clasping its arms around our eyelids like a benevolent Ludovico technique, as dubby undulations ring out. 'Prism' goes even further to plunge our third ears into fluxion chords and midnight saxophones. Finally, we come round-orbital trip with 'Homeworld', with cascading returnal arps and power intervals proving the theory of time dilation right.
Review: REPRESS ALERT!: People Pleasers is a brand new label that kicks off with the first sounds of a new project, Shep, by respected veteran producer Jay Shepheard. It is house music which underpins these but plenty more goes on up top. 'Peach Buzz' shows that from the off with some nice airy pads and emotive vocal stabs that will make any floor take note. 'Trust Your Nose' is a deep, warm cut with shuffling drum and humid 90s organ stabs while 'The Bell Curve' has a late-night feel thanks to the pulsing synth sequences that roam about the mix. 'Higher States Of Nonchalance' shuts down with the most heady sound of the lot and a persuasive dub feel that is perfect for back rooms.
Review: This reissue brings a pivotal piece of Detroit techno history back to life. The EP, originally released in 1990, is a five-track journey that showcases the Burden brothers' early sonic explorations. From the sinister, acidic techno of 'Sonic Fusion' to the deeper, melancholic moods of 'Nicolette', the EP captures a pivotal moment in the evolution of Detroit techno. 'Octivate' and 'Paradise' offer driving rhythms and infectious energy, while 'Epilogue' provides a reflective conclusion to this sonic adventure.
Review: Pretty much does what it says on the tin this one - a lovely slab of vinyl packed with high-octane, main room club bangers. Torpedo is a master of that form and has proven it repeatedly over the last 30 years. He kicks off here with the steamy, sizzling and low-slung house of 'Red Killer', 'Fascinating' then has a chunky Kerri Chandler style bounce to it and 'Bonkaz' brings warm and silky deep house depths to a classic Dizzie sample. 'Renegade' is the raved-up closer that will get hands thrown skywards.
Review: Eight further sonic spirits are conjured on the seventh edition in Damian Lazarus' annual compilation series. Emphasising deep house and techno grooves with a hypnotic flavour, the procurement here is exemplarily brooding; Dino Lenny's 'I Have Sampled Father' marks a sure turn away from the openers' cleaner-cut mesmerisms with a smoky, funk-inflected haze, bringing rhythm guitar and paternal murmurations to a surreal montage. The monologuing mood continues on the equal highlight that is Upercent's 'Where Are You', whilst Enamour's 'Jackpot' rounds out the show with the record's only brightly-lit minimal triller. The record is marked by sensuous, distant, familiar voices throughout.
Review: The first notes of Strength In Numbers pull you in with the immediacy of a tightly wound groove. 'Team Spirit' sets the stage with sharp percussion and a bassline that feels as if it's pushing against a restraint, only to give way to an effortless swing. 'Gear Up Rudi!' follows with a cool, almost cinematic feel, as Gibin's intricate rhythm patterns dance around the space between the beats. The pace slows slightly on 'Come Mornin' (featuring Sandra St. Victor),' where the warmth of her vocals transforms the track into a soulful, melodic anchor. Yet, it's on 'No Matter What' that the LP really finds its strideian undulating groove, building steadily before its final, emotive release. The album balances thoughtful restraint with moments of release and in that, Gibin creates something that moves through time without losing its pulse.
Review: Italian disco DJ and producer Corrado Alunni shares his latest nu-disco soul nostrum, 'Make It Feel More', which, owing to the title, is an EP whose aim is to enliven the largely electronic and mechanistic bent of nu-disco with a good bit of live-recorded pizzazz. Such is heard on the title track, which moves naturally through both augmented and diminished electric piano cadences, not to mention slap basses, to be poised against the beats. Then 'Perfect Direction' brings the boughed basses and disco hits to a new layer of chill; with this, and the ensuing 'Keep Moving', it feels as if we've kept finding new rooms, in which new room contains a new type of hors d'oeuvre to try. 'The Beat Goes On' closes on a snappier and vinyl-driven vexation, perfect for the snakier kind of dancer.
Review: It would be fair to say that Roy Davis Jr and Peven Everett's "Gabriel" (originally written "Gabrielle" on early pressings) has become a timeless dance music classic - a track that both soulful house and UK garage DJs reach for in times of trouble. Should it not be in your collection already (and it should be), Large Music has decided to re-master and re-press the original 1996 12". It does, of course, contain the now ubiquitous "Live Garage" version - the groovy two-step, trumpet-laden mix that became popular with early UK garage DJs - plus a trio of lesser-known remixes. The Tambourine Dub, in particular, is something of a tough, warehouse-friendly deep house treat.
Review: UK legend Dego and killer keys-man Kaidi Tatham have been in a rich vein of form of late, dropping brilliant EPs on Eglo, Sound Signature and Rush Hour (the latter under their 2000Black alias). Here, they return to Eglo with four more slices of warm, rich, soul-flecked fluidity. As with previous outings, much of the material has a laidback jazz-funk feel, particularly "Orbiting Uhara" and the delicious "The Vault Descends" (think bustling bruk rhythms and darting boogie synths). They also offer up some tougher, synth-laden bruk-funk in the shape of "Man Made", while "Black Is Key" sees them unfurl a head-nodding vocal roller.
Review: Gideon Jackson and Eddie Richards are bona fide tech house titans who have more than helped to shape the genre since day dot and the All Rise EP sees three of their finer past glories gathered together and remastered and pressed on lovely red wax. The excellent 'Biscuit Barrel Blues' opens with exactly the sort of compelling drum work you would expect and it is imbued with some prying synths and sultry vocals. There is an irresistible glitch and dryness to 'Pull Tab 2 Open' and its smeared pads that make it perfect body music then 'Crying' (Gideon Jackson remix) brings a more heavy tech house sound with extra dub weight. Perfection.
Review: Whoever is behind the Discotecas series has certainly got access to some seriously good re-edits. As with its predecessors, volume six in the series lands with no info about the identity of the editor (or editors) involved. Whoever it is, they've done a bang-up job - as inspired opener 'Perceptive', a deliciously dubby and spaced-out take on a hybrid electro/proto-house gem from the mid 1980s, proves. The retro-futurist fun continues on 'Kazbah', a fine revision of a brilliantly odd, breakbeat-fuelled Arabic acid record, while flip-side opener 'Bass Instinct' sits somewhere between bleep & breaks and early speed garage. Closing cut 'Ask a Dream' is arguably the best cut of all: a sublime slab of saucer-eyed early deep house of the kind that should probably be listened to as the sun comes up.
Review: These days, vinyl releases from Sean McCabe's admirable Good Vibrations Music imprint are few and far between, though what they do put out is excellent. For proof, check out this belated sequel to their first multi-artist EP, which landed in 2021. To kick things off, Glenn Underground serves up a gently Latin-tinged take on Harold Matthews Jr's 'This Place' - all soulful vocals, fluid bass guitar, bouncy beats, and infectious electric piano licks - before McCabe joins forces with Black Sonix on the jazzy, jaunty and bass-heavy jazz-funk/Latin house fusion of 'Modulate'. Deep soulful house and nods to Atjazz are the order of the day on Madeeha, McCabe and Dj Mixjah's 'Still Standing Here', while the Underground Project rework of 'You Don't Know' by David Bailey and MissFly is a tech-tinged slab of deep, soulful house.
Never Come Down (feat Hector Moralez - Nonfiction remix)
Don't Keep Me Waiting
Review: Ira James' Vessel Recordings Group is a go-to for soulful house sounds and that's just what we have here to kick off 2025 on good vibes only. Jaemus and Sen-Sei are the dup behind two new singles. The first is 'Never Come Down' and it features Hector Moralez on the vocals while the cuddly beats, gooey chords and sweet drums all melt you. The Nonfiction remix is more pumping and direct and 'Don't Keep Me Waiting' then swirls around with heady pads, incidental melodies and dusty drums for late-night wig-outs.
Review: This compilation is a sonic tapestry woven from the threads of diverse electronic soundscapes, each track carefully crafted to evoke the liminal space between dreams and reality. It's an invitation to immerse oneself in a world of intricate textures, hypnotic rhythms, and evocative melodies, where the boundaries between genres blur and the music takes on a life of its own. Jonny Rock's 'Legenda' sets the tone with its purposeful groove, its driving energy balanced by a sense of introspective depth. Thanksmate's 'Take A Chance' adds a meditative touch, its gentle melodies and atmospheric textures inviting contemplation and reflection. Dobao's 'Oceano' plunges into a deep, liquid dimension, its swirling synths and hypnotic rhythms creating a sense of weightless immersion. Giammarco Orsini's 'Whirlwind' picks up the pace, its pulsating energy and infectious groove propelling the listener forward. Hiver's 'The Frontier' explores the tension and release of electronic landscapes, its dynamic shifts and evolving textures keeping the listener on the edge of their seat. Sam Goku's 'Lucid Oscillation' closes the compilation with a sense of ethereal beauty, its airy melodies and floating notes leaving a lingering sense of wonder.
Review: Last year, Quiroga (real name Walter Del Vecchio) returned to Hell Yeah! Recordings with an impressive dose of TB-303-laden dancefloor psychedelia, the superb 'Acid Dropout EP'. 'French Kiss', the title track from his latest EP for the popular Italian imprint, is a more immersive, warm and hazy affair, where sweet female vocal snippets, warming Rhodes riffs and dreamy electronics rise above a shuffling, mid-temp deep house beat and organic-sounding bassline. His trademark acid lines naturally feature on the accompanying 'Baia Club Ambient Version', a shuffling breakbeat affair that takes cues from Italian 'ambient house' (IE dream house) rather than beat-free soundscapes. It is, though, genuinely superb. Turn to the flip for two bonus cuts: the vintage Jazzanova-esque broken house brilliance of 'Ask Coppede' and the deep, Balearic-fired electro shuffle of 'Cala Ventosa'.
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