Review: Burnski's agenda-setting garage label Instinct is back with killer new beats from Mance. 'Atmos101' gets things underway with sparking melodies zipping about the stereo field over chunky drums and with a filthy bassline. There is more of a throwback feel to the dusty drum loops of 'Stone Cold, Baby' complete with great vocal samples and spiralling pads. 'All Night' shows another look again with dry, stripped-back beats and big hits under warped synth stabs and more brain-melting bass. 'I Can't Help It' shuts down with silky pads work and soulful vocals.
Review: Mangiadischi Recordings delivers once more here with a dynamic journey through space, time and groove that takes off with "The Ultimate Groovelord', a post-space-disco bomb packed with cosmic vibes and pulsating rhythms that are perfect for a dancefloor odyssey. Following on is 'PiacerebbeTi,' a hypnotic blend of neo-pop and deep tech that seamlessly balances modern sounds and intricate grooves. The B-side features guest artist GaMan with 'Try A Gain', a super-minimal, glacial hip-hop edit with eerie, stripped-back beats. Closing the EP is 'Fathermaker', Mr. Mangiadischi's tribute to early 90s house and acid.
Review: After years of sharing music through various platforms, The Wapstation launches its new label with an inaugural EP from acclaimed Italian producer Roberto Manolio. His records often sell out in quick time thanks to their magnetic appeal to minimal lovers and here he explores a tapestry of techno, house, electro and Miami bass. 'Sublevel Restrictions' is all sleek metal drums and spoken word samples, 'Orbit Around The Sun' has a Detroit soul to its crispy tech house and 'Fantasy Scratch' cuts loose with more sleazy low ends and trippy melodic refrains. Rising talent Christopher Ledger delivers a standout electro reinterpretation of the title track to finish this one in style.
Review: Martinesque is back on his own Adam's Bite with a fresh EP that builds on his signature sound. The artist hails from Basel, Switzerland and as well as impressing with this label he was also known for his role in booking for the renowned Elysia club until 2023. Here he kicks off with 'Drama' which is a lively dub house sound with crisp tech drums and wild synth calls, then 'The Final Hour' first comes as an instrumental. It's a seductive sound with synth puddles and twanging chords, heavy melodies and a romantic feel. 'The Final Hour' (vocal mix) closes with a teen vocal line laced in for extra atmosphere.
Review: Fresh from serving up a superb set of off-kilter house cuts from Newcastle-based maverick Man Power, Timo Rotenen's Echocentric imprint has turned to regular Belters contributor Dominik Marz. The long-serving producer has delivered an EP of nostalgic, energy-packed delights that variously doff a cap to dance music sub-genres of the 1990s and early 2000s. For proof, check the gargantuan 'Honesty', where mind-bending noises and sharp, trance style stabs rise above stomping beats and deep, sub-heavy, bleep & bass style low-end pressure. Similarly excitable and mind-altering is EP-opening slammer 'Honesty'. Elsewhere, 'Only One' sees Marz pepper a stabbing bassline and hissing house beats with raw bleeps and nostalgic samples, while 'Never Use Quantize' is pleasingly wayward - like early Chicago house crossed with NYC freestyle.
Review: Matahari's latest offering, 'MHV 003', is a dynamic and refreshing 12" featuring four tracks, each carrying a modern yet funky twist on tech house. With subtle but clever use of some familiar rap vocals, the EP weaves familiar elements into a crisp, energetic framework, showcasing a fresh approach to the genre. From the bass-heavy bounce of 'Most Wanted' to the slick, groovy undertones of 'Lil Licks', every cut feels crafted for the dancefloor. 'Biggie' and 'Where You At G (Magic Mix)' round off the record, touting slick productions that manage to feel both new and nostalgic in equal measure.
Review: Matthias closes out 2024 with 'Life Among Nightmares', a three-track EP that dives deep into the techno-synth wave spectrum. Kicking things off is Global Thunder, a mind-bending track that crescendos into an epic blend of nostalgic synths and cinematic tension. On the B-side, Living Nightmare delivers a moody fusion of eccentric analog sounds, acid sequences, and swinging percussion, creating a dark yet hypnotic atmosphere. Finally, Sunfall rounds out the EP, where sinister synths and shadowy pads pull listeners into a haunting, techno-wave journey.
Review: 'Fix The Pitches On Your Old Turntables To Improve Quality Of Life' on Mud Trax Russia delivers a dynamic and immersive experience in the world of minimal and tech house. The first side opens with Kirill Matveev and Wiklauri's 'Ioli (Kirill Version)', a track that offers a strong, late-night tech house vibe, filled with a driving techno sound. Ataneus' 'Napolitaner' follows, a deeper, chord-based piece with an atmospheric quality and fast-paced tech house elements, designed to energize the dancefloor. On the flip side, Genning's 'Red Lights' brings a fusion of dub techno with flighty, melodic techno sounds, building energy through airy, atmospheric layers. Etzu Mahkayah's 'Cs-13' closes the compilation with a melodic tech house track that introduces trance-like elements, offering a spacey, progressive soundscape. Each track expertly balances depth with dancefloor energy, creating an album that is both atmospheric and immersive, perfect for fans of techy minimal beats and progressive grooves.
Review: Known in Tokyo's underground for filling her DJ sets with an enticing blend of house, new wave and disco, Mayurashka's Studio Barnhus debut is - as the label point out -full of sonic illusions: immediately accessible and enticing tracks which are nevertheless filled with quirky sonic details. There's plenty to admire throughout, from the breathlessly dark and driving peak-time jack of 'Cool Stop' and the lightly disco-infused peak-time tactility of 'Cosmic Rising', to the percussive, wildly pitched-down chug of 'Fatties' and the effects-laden, tribal house-on-the-moon insanity of 'Mountain Pads'. Throw in the low-slung dystopian dub disco madness of 'Appex' and you have a genuinely brilliant label debut.
Review: For those who have been digging deep & minimal house for decades, this 12" is a mini modern classic from 2004 by Mazi Namvar aka Audio Soul Project. Once a hidden gem, exposure in plenty of high-profile DJ sets means it has become a sought-after record with second-hand copies fetching up to $170. Enter this reissue to make it available to all, as good music should be. As well as the lush original cuts, this version includes a bonus track, 'Murmurs Low,' featuring Jimmy Tripp on saxophone and Mazi's spoken word, while standouts like 'Tattoo Of You' and 'Down' still hit the sport perfectly.
Review: We're firmly, groovily locked in to this latest release from Locky Mazzucchelli. Ironically, his is a *key* release on Helix Discs. The Melbourne upstarts have put out a thrilling threnody of EPs so far, with kitsch 3D rendered retro-sci album covers ('Digital Destination' by DJ Alan) and mega moods of automotive, intercity chic ('Close Contact' by The Audio Manipulator). 'Learn To Listen' fits neatly into the pile accrued so far, with 'Bias' providing a strangely out-of-order set of janker beats, and 'ShaiHai' and 'The Box' furthering this blinkered, badly-tracked yet charming sense of ease. Borked moods abound on the closing 'Leave The Party', which makes relaxed work of the otherwise sometimes fraught act of finding one's way home after exiting the warehouse.
Review: Mbius's latest release on Club Dream captures the essence of deep house with an almost hypnotic quality. The A-side kicks off with 'Exist,' which layers delicate melodies over a compelling rhythm that ebbs and flows like a steady tide. 'Midsummer Dream' continues the mood, offering a warm, ethereal soundscape perfect for late-night listening. On the B-side, 'Reality Check' ramps up the intensity with a thumping bassline, while Christopher Ledger's remix adds a darker edge, shifting the vibe into something more introspective. The 12" perfectly showcases Mbius's ability to create emotive, immersive atmospheres without overcomplicating the groove.
Review: It's five up for the small but already fine NRV label who welcome Me&MyDog for this one. There is a darkness to their brand of tech that is evident from the off with 'Body Move' with its stark drum hits and twist deadline, all topped with some moody vocal mutterings. 'Moonside' brings kinetic rhythms that have carefully designed percussion sprinkled over the top to bring some looseness. A login bassline keeps things firmly rooted to the floor while 'GR308L (6AM mix)' gets more trippy with some acid modulations and wispy synths all fleshing out the minimal grove.
Review: Mehdi M's latest EP finds him expertly blending house, techno and bass-driven rhythms into one tight package. While the title might suggest a singular focus, each track on this release demonstrates the breadth of his sonic toolkit. The opener, 'Funky Mission,' kicks things off with a tight house groove, where punchy kicks and sharp snares form a solid foundation, while the high-pitched synth melody gradually builds to an energising peak. It's a fresh, feel-good start. On 'Sunday Service,' the vibe shiftsideep basslines rumble beneath a hypnotic rhythm, pulling the track into a more atmospheric space without losing energy. 'Funky Version' brings back a sense of playfulness, with bouncy bass and tight percussion, driving the track forward while keeping the mood light and funky. 'Tare Mode' stands out with its relentless grooveialmost hypnotic in its repetition, the bassline is starker, a steady pulse that forces the track into full-on motion. Closing things out, 'Ritmics' offers a complex, rhythmic journey, with intricate percussion and shifting textures that ensure the EP finishes as strong as it began.
Review: The Moonraver label is only young but is already in our 'keep an eye on' list after two fine first releases. After hearing this new offering from Daniel Messier, it will remain on that list too. The producer cooks up a silky minimal groove on 'Omani' that recalls early Villalobos with its smart layering of deft sounds, sines and fx. The PRT Stacho remix gets a more fulsome low and and more obvious wonky feel, and n the flip, 'Midnight Sun' keeps things fluid and free-flowing. Endemica brings a little more colour and neon melody to it with his remix.
Review: After the inexorable 'Techno Disco Tool', Mella Dee shot like a shuttle from heartthrob disco-techno editor to all-star producer in his own right. 'Steady Movin' hears the British DJ and producer nod to Warp-era Yorkshire breaks, with his native Sheffield sound-checked through four in-yo-face selections, including 'NRG VIBES' and 'Fiedel Played A Big One'. Emphasising Reese bass movements and chunked up, peak-time thumpage, this one's ready-made for the edgier raver.
Review: Merv keeps it super deep here with a trio of supremely tasteful techno cuts doused in dub culture. 'Sliver' is first and awakens the sense with some gentle rattling chords that sound like distant thunder rolling in with a storm. 'Embrace' is airy, with big kicks and frosty pads shimmering across the airwaves and crisp hi-hats cut right through. 'Strain' is last up on the flip and is an elongated journey through some sugary melodic pixelations, a frosty dubscape and hints of melancholia. All are perfect for those late-night and intimate back room sessions.
Review: French multi-instrumentalist and producer Mezerg (real name Marc Mezergue) is something of a one-off - a synthesizer, drums and theremin-sporting one-man band who has even invented his own unique instrument, a combined keyboard/electronic drum kit known as the "piano boom boom". He's perhaps best-known as a live performer but has received plenty of plaudits for previous releases, most notably 2021 debut LP Chez Mezerg. Vol Retarde de 42 Mn is that album's belated sequel and sees the Frenchman develop his existing trademark sound - a musically mixed-up blend of classic synth sounds, analogue electronics, warm basslines and unfussy beats that variously draws influence from titans of French electronic dance music (Justice, Jean-Michel Jarre etc), electro and, most frequently, colourful nu-disco.
Review: Michelle's latest offering feels like a seamless expression of self that captures moments of quiet introspection and sudden bursts of energy with a rare fluidity. There's a tenderness in the opening moments, the kind that builds a world around you without being too obvious about it. As the EP progresses, the energy ebbs and flows, with her vocal delivery and production pulling you in different directions, offering an unexpected balance between reflective depth and danceable grooves. It's a record that feels carefully crafted yet entirely free-flowing, its moods shifting in a way that keeps you engaged without overstating its intentions. A complex yet accessible work, it feels like the mark of an artist growing into her voice, blending textures and emotions with ease.
Review: Mihail P's 'Multitudes' EP on Analog Concept is a gem for those who appreciate techno with ambient and emotional undertones, aligning with the subtle artistry of Nuron, John Shima, Derek Carr, CIM and Future Beat Alliance. The opener, 'East At Dawn', sets a delicate tone, weaving beautiful ambient techno melodies with hints of electro. Its graceful synths and deep bass resonate with a sense of introspection, creating a lush atmosphere. Another name in this style that is making waves is the fantastic Gilbert. His remix of 'East At Dawn' shifts gears slightly, infusing an upbeat energy and a more tech-focused rhythm while maintaining the Detroit-inspired warmth of the original. On Side-2, 'Paradox Of Automation' balances gentle beats with an intricate, celestial melody. The track's refined production and harmonious layers lend it an otherworldly quality. The EP closes with 'Ghosts Of Tomorrow', a triumphant, melodic composition that feels both uplifting and ethereal, like a final, hopeful transmission from another realm. 'Multitudes' showcases Mihail P's talent for blending ambient techno with emotive depth. Another winner in his discography.
Review: The 'No Trickery' EP marks the second release of Connor Mikami's If You Know You Know and it culminates in a poignant tribute to the church that served as a vital dance music hub in Los Angeles until October 2024. 'ET' gets things underway with a gurgling mix of dark and dirty basslines and menacing synth growls. 'Church' has a more clean and serene sound with dumpy kicks and bright chord stabs that bring to mind a late-night sermon. 'Groovy G' is a jacked-up tech cut with cool swing and crispy sabre work topped off with a muted synth phrase.
Review: This rework collection brings a fresh perspective to Goa-influenced tribal techno, blending deep house and tech house elements with innovative, bang up-to-date production skills. Side-1's 'Shaker' (Workout mix), is a rhythmically inventive, funk-laced groove that locks in with an addictive pulse. 'Oase' (Trance mix) follows, fusing Goa textures with a modern sensibilityimystical yet laid-back, perfectly tuned for today's club energy. On the flip, 'Day In Night' (After mix) builds steadily, weaving tribal instrumentation into a hypnotic, evolving structure. 'Dimensional Rhythm' (Dream mix) rounds out the EP with atmospheric layers, rising melodies and an irresistible, driving beat that channels the spirit of classic Goa through a contemporary lens. A creative take on deep, tribal-infused club music from Netherlands-based producer Milio.
Review: Milion's latest EP on HOME//GRXWN is a sharp, energetic showcase of his evolving talent. Blending the raw power of garage with the dynamic edge of electro, this release channels the spirit of underground dance music while pushing it forward. The A-side track, 'Adventure Time', is a standout, layering genre-defying electro beats with euphoric undertones, creating an irresistible blend that's bound to become a regular in DJ sets. 'DALIA' follows and has already cemented its status as a club favourite, with DJs like Dungeon Meat and Enzo Siragusa spinning it to packed dancefloors. It's easy to see why - the track blends garage grooves with a punchy rhythm that keeps the energy high. The B-side shifts gears with 'Machines Breathe', an intricate composition exploring the emotional resonance of mechanical sounds. Voigtmann delivers a remix that amplifies the original's soul, adding his unmistakable groove and funk, to round off a great EP.
Review: Limo Trax wind down the tinters and shoot us a knowing look through the Wayfarers, as their latest procurement in slick minimal house and techno blares out the limo stereo. This latest addition to their colours series comes in verdant green, and corrals the talents of Milion, Exonym, Dombee and Wodda, all of whom lay down a clacking sonic technic each. 'Tuin Van Bret' exposes the vibe with beeping chords and an injurious party-starting film dialogue sample, as swarthy, silly excitable funk ensues. 'Hagring' marks the A2 with a "gimme dem" sample and moody swells, while 'Brixton' pays homage to the legendary Lambeth area with a speed garage distributary, reminiscent of Serious Danger's earliest movements in the sound. 'Dark N Stormy' perfects this speedy trend, adding expulsive breaks and oozing licks between the four-by-fours.
Review: In signature cinematic melodic techno style, Mind Against and Cay bring 'Cant U Hear Me / Trust', laying thick a hi-tech fusion of soulful house and synthetically squeezed sound-energy. The thrumming heartbeat of UK club culture is heart sifted through a harsh cyborg grate, reducing things to a metallurgic, pulmonary pulp. Crystalline percussion, cascading synths... 'Trust' makes particularly pristine use of untainted pluck design, with peaking plucks wriggling in the mid-high layer like buds on a mecha-euphoric flower (just look at that front cover).
Review: This record delivers a single-track statement with the formidable 'Colossal', a dark and dramatic techno anthem tailored for peak-time festival moments. The track lives up to its name with heavy, pounding rhythms that ripple with an epic intensity, drawing listeners into its brooding atmosphere. Layered with cinematic tension, 'Colossal' balances a relentless driving drive with intricate textures, creating a hypnotic interplay between shadowy undertones and electrifying crescendos. The meticulous production ensures every beat lands with seismic impact, making it a great weapon for use on large scale sound systems.
Review: Ninja Records looks to build on the success of its first outing with a new outing from Miroloja who are brothers and key players in the Parisian underground with great credits already to their name on Berg Audio, Tzinah Records and OLO RECORDS. Their stripped-back but tight sound is laid bare on opener 'Linkblow' with its warm house kicks and wet clicks soon to make you move. 'Morgan' is speedier with some space-tech vibes and a snappier low-end. Closer 'Krazyteora' then explores a creepy late-night urban landscape with some cyclical drums and synths moving things onwards.
Review: This electrifying release delivers a dark, immersive journey through the realms of sci-fi and subterranean soundscapes. Side-1 opens with 'Intro', a cinematic, otherworldly prelude that sets the tone with eerie atmospherics. It segues into 'Sarcofago', a compelling blend of alien techno and electro, drenched in shadowy, subterranean vibes that create a sense of unease yet intrigue. 'El Ritual' continues the descent, invoking a hypnotic rhythm that feels ceremonial and enigmatic. Side-2 picks up the pace with 'Ocultismo', an uptempo electro banger that combines relentless beats with sharp, futuristic textures. The closing track, 'Puerta Al Inframundo', is a climactic plunge into the underworld, where deep, resonant basslines and haunting melodies evoke a sense of crossing into uncharted sonic dimensions. This record masterfully balances dark energy with driving grooves.
Review: Ray Mono steps into his third release for Pleasure Zone, effortlessly blending restrained minimalism with immersive textures. Opening with 'Qqqq', the track introduces tight, rolling loops and a pulsing groove that draws the listener into a rhythmical trance. The low-end growl of 'Ssss' carries a deeper emotional weight, its minimal percussion skittering over layered synths, evoking an air of mystery. As the B-side drops, 'Iiii' unfurls with patient precision, luring the listener into a seamless, shifting landscape. 'Pppp' closes out the journey with its stripped-back dub influence, offering space for reflection while keeping the groove firmly rooted.
Review: An exciting blend of minimal tech house and experimental techno only equalled by an emotionally gripping acoustic version on the second side. The track immediately grabs attention with its intricate layers of moody synths and pulsating percussion. Steffen Linck's evocative lyrics float effortlessly over the atmospheric soundscape, balancing vulnerability and groove. It's a track that speaks to deep emotions while maintaining a steady, hypnotic rhythm. On the Side-B, Monolink presents "Mesmerized (Acoustic)', a beautiful reworking that strips away the electronic elements to expose the raw heart of the song. This acoustic version is a more intimate experience, where soulful vocals and acoustic instrumentation take center stage. The result is a tender, thought-provoking reinterpretation that breathes new life into the track, further enhancing its emotional depth. This release shows off Monolink's ability to blend electronic precision with organic emotion.
Review: Batu's Timedance is about as consistently fresh and forward-thinking as electronic labels get right now. Bristol's Daisy Moon is next up to carry the baton and is fresh off a standout house cut on Peach Discs in June. Here she opens with the precise drum rhythms and glitchy percussion of 'Eclipse' while 'Shadow Of Silhouettes' is a shimming, shape shifting arrangement with daubs of synth, frenzied lines, chopped-up vocals and plenty more all vying for your attention. 'The Abyssal Zone' then brings some dubby broken beats to the fore and 'Meadow Rap' flips the script entirely with some lush downtempo.
Review: Andre Schmid aka The Mountain People is back once again with another sophisticated distillation of house, techno and minimal on his self-titled label. 'I Kid You Not' is brilliantly subtle with whimsical and soft melodies drifting over dynamic drum work. It's late night and absorbing stuff. 'Up The River' is a little more wonky and lump with the drums rising and falling under glistering hi-hats to alluring affect. The whole of the flip is given over to 'The Nothingness', a stylish dub house sound with well worked synths smeared across the mix and leaving neon tails in their wake. It's a forward-thinking cut for discerning dancers.
Review: London label Fourier Transform welcome back Rekab (James Baker) and label debuter Mre for 'Ace High'. 'Armadillos' rolls up its chassis for a serious exercise in minimal weight, reconstituting tuned percussions as it trundles along, while Rekab's 'Always Having Fun' posits an ideal life-mode: a steady, direct current of enjoyment, set to hedonically calculated beats. 'Climbing High' rebates the percussions for a subtle lark's ascent in deep acid, while 'Ace' complementarily descends across cross-rhythmic breaks and harmonies.
Review: A captivating exploration of minimal and tech house, delivering a smooth blend of breezy melodies and lush grooves. The title track, 'Mai Tai', kicks off Side-1 with effortless charm, offering a melodic, laid-back tech house vibe that feels perfect for open-air settings. 'Talei' follows, elevating the mood with its chord-driven, lush textures, embodying the essence of quintessential tech house. On Side-2, 'Just Let You Be' nods to Drexciya's 'Let Me Be Me' with a groovy, minimal approach that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. The EP concludes with Sakro's remix of 'Mai Tai' which transforms the original into an upbeat, dancefloor-ready anthem, adding energy while maintaining its melodic core. This EP is a good in balancing minimalism with rich, inviting soundscapes.
Review: Micro Orbit is back with another trip around the cosmos almost exactly a year since they first launched into space with the first in their Pioneer Series. That was backed up with their Origins Series in January this year but it is to the Pioneers we return here with four finely crafted minimal and tech house cuts. Mtps's 'Moonrise' is a gritty, punchy opener with a stripped back sense of menace. Michaelis's 'Wax Off' is the sort of silky sound to spin you out at 5am and Mihai Pol's offers up deliciously deep and heady loops on his 'Zelot'. Fedo closes things down with the floating and suspensory dubbed out tech house delicacies of 'Anantkar Kaur.'
Review: 'Solipsism' opens with sleek, futuristic energy where its infectious groove and sharp percussion that locks dancers into its hypnotic rhythm. It's a shinning example in refined minimal techno, balancing precision with raw club energy. 'Street Lite' follows, evoking the spirit of early 90s UK techno with rolling drums and nostalgic synth textures, transporting listeners straight to a dimly lit warehouse. On Side-2, 'Freeze' shifts into heavier territory, driven by a weighty bassline and pounding rhythms that demand attention. It's a raw and relentless techno cut built for peak-time intensity. Closing the EP, 'Glove Box' leans into new beat influences, layering thick synth stabs and mechanical grooves for a gritty yet infectious finish. Drum-heavy and rich in character, this record is all about the old-school techno feel while keeping things fresh. It's a love letter to the past with both feet firmly on the dancefloor, designed for those who crave deep, rhythmic intensity with a timeless edge.
Review: By their standards, Berlin twosome Nap92 have been positively prolific this year. Having previously confined their output to a sole EP a year, this 12" marks their second of 2024. It is, of course, rather good, with the pair once again offering a collection of retro-futurist workouts that blend early 90s house sounds and late 90s tech-house tropes with plenty of ear-catching samples and agreeable melodic motifs. You'll find plenty of fine fare amongst the five tracks on show, from breakbeat house style opener 'Most Perfect' (where a squelchy bassline, floatation tank synths and eyes-closed vocal snippets catch the ear) and Clav-sporting garage-house shuffler 'Track 3', to the organ-rich MK goes tech-house flex of 'Laurent' and the fiendishly sub-heavy 'Body Body'.
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