Martijn

reviews:75

Alex-Barck-REUNION1-Artwork-525x525Alex Barck
Re-Set
Reunion

There is something delightfully melodic about the way Re-Set develops its loosely structured chords alongside vocalist Pete Josef’s emotive delivery which hints at melancholy and joy all at the same time. An intriguing recipe for sure and the more you listen to this the more impressive and involving it reveals itself to be. It is also the first in a run-up to the release of an album later in 2013 so hopefully there is much more like this in store. The drums sit neatly along classic Electro lines as evocative keyboards add a juicy funk to the rhythm which feels inspired and tastefully accessible, yet clearly forward reaching in scope. The remix comes care of Berliner Hannes Fischer who transforms the song along technological lines with reverberating vocal treatments adding extra, soulful warmth to the haunting synthesizer lines which colour the spaces in-between sublimely on this stunning reworking.

release:  January 28 (12″ vinyl only)

https://soundcloud.com/alexbarck/alex-barck-re-set-original

http://www.sonarkollektiv.com

http://www.jazzanova.com

 

 

mobiusMobius Strum
A Midnight Tale (Part 1)
Smiley Fingers

Like kick-ass basslines? Then Costa Ricas’ Mobius Strum has just the ticket in White Disorder. Beginning with unsuspecting beats this then all too quickly announces itself via a succession irresistibly hard-hitting deeper tones.  Not a lot else goes on apart from some vocal snippets and the odd sprinkle of atmospheric synth, but then when the rhythm section sizzles with such intensity little else is required.  Next, Ocean View proceeds with funkier percussion played out over throbbing bass and occasional chords, again capturing the mood perfectly alongside your attention span. The direct thinking of Kick N’ Snare applies further hypnotic swirls of keyboard to cinematic voices that for some inexplicable reason sound particularly resonate throughout its eight minute timeframe. An excellent release that you would be doing a disservice too by filing anywhere near the reference: minimal.

release: January 21

https://www.facebook.com/MobiusStrum

http://www.smileyfingers.com

 

DER036_HOHLEHohle
Ser Mi Dama EP
Deep Edition Recordings

Yet another distinctive release this week, and quite possibly one the Deep Editions finest moments to date, sees the trio of Keiran Clare, Lloyd Lindo and Francis Seaver deliver a richly, deep production in Ser Mi Dama. It’s all about capturing the mood here which this does so effortlessly by combining atmospheric keys and vocal hints alongside cutting percussion to propel it all. Remixes come from Michelle Owen and Martijn with the former injecting extra energy into the rhythm with heavier bass and punchier chords, the later exploring a moodier Techno feel while also highlighting the expressive vocal aspects again.  Second track, Arcapelago is tougher relying on pulsating chords and an invigorating b line to round off this notable release.

release:  February 4 Beatport Exclusive / All stores 18th February

https://soundcloud.com/deep-edition-recordings/der036-ho-hle-ser-mi-dama-ep

http://www.deep-edition.com/

 

He Not In 1500 x 1500Chicken Lips
He Not In
Defected Records

Fair to say that this seminal record from Chicken Lips has stood the test of time since its original release some ten years ago. Listen to it and the answer as to why is pretty much self-explanatory.  The original version takes pride of place; although the excellent remixes all infuse that bassline with a fresh lease of life by each adding their own distinctive trademark to their reworking. It’s all good as they say, however it’s down to both Groove Armada and Eats Everything to really qualify the track for 2013 with contemporary perspectives. However, having said all that Noir’s Personal Edit of the original is just as hard to beat (with no pun intended).

release:  January 28

https://soundcloud.com/defectedrecords/sets/chicken-lips-he-not-in

http://www.defected.com

 

release: January 28

 

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reviews:45

Alexis Raphael
Into the Light
Hot Creations

Love this. The capitals’ Alexis Raphael captures the invigorating sounds and feel of contemporary House music perfectly with this inspired production. Tempered by strident beats and deliciously dark sounding synths the arrangement sets you up for its fall into bassline nirvana, with a timely nod to early nineties vocal samples’ and a twist of infectious Disco toms into the bargain.  Hot Natured then proceed to deepen the bass and add edgy attitude to their sublimely powerful remix, as second track I Know feels almost church-like in comparison: with heavenly Organ cumulating in a succession of hypnotic handclaps and cheeky selection of yet more classic vocal lines… 9

release: April 23

http://soundcloud.com/alexisraphael/a1-into-the-light

https://www.facebook.com/djalexisraphael

https://www.facebook.com/HotCreationsLabel

 

Cesar Coronado
Crazy Position EP
Flumo Recordings

Cesar Coronado’s debut for the relocated Flumo label sees splashing 909 hats play off against nagging vocal snippets and cool fuzzy chords. Meanwhile, the impressive Atapy Remix gets funky with its Bass while playing pounding synthetic drums as it evolves into a creative collection of electronic notes and pads. However, it’s down to Ed Maddams Soul Dub to transform the mood of it all by breaking up the beats and adding excellent Jazzy tones to a particularly stinking sequence of events. Hats off, this is good. The Way I Feel About You replays another classic vocal from the 90’s over a suitably fashionable b-line to compliment it all stylishly. 8

release: April 24

http://soundcloud.com/kahua-music/sets/flr033

http://www.flumo.com/

 

Joss Moog
That old Feeling
Robsoul Recordings

Have to say I made the mistake of underestimating this when I first heard it. But, much to my delight it’s all you could hope for and more from Parisian Joss Moog, whose distinctive selection of influences hits all the right buttons. Slinky bass and infectiously funky percussion effortlessly work their way into your consciousness as Motown inspired voices and moody chords do all the rest. That Old Feeling:  simple and yet totally effective. As indeed is, Xtra Bass which again plays a collection of beats and breaks as smooth dancefloor filler. The much perkier, That’s What UR follows by adding Disco flavour and the 70’s party-time inflections of Blue Paradise complete. 8

release: April 20

http://www.facebook.com/jossmoogmusic

https://www.facebook.com/robsoulrecordings

 

Manuel Tur
Swans Reflecting Elephants
Freerange

You will be well familiar with Manuel Tur reading Magazine Sixty so it’s a definite pleasure to be introducing you to his new, and second, album for Freerange. Both label and artist espouse certain qualities when it comes to the music they release and thought-provoking tracks such as new single, High Needs Low are a perfect case in point. From heavy-duty deepness to more spacious atmospheres the curiously titled album (via Salvador Dali) never fails but to thrill you with its exploration of ideas about sound and their possibilities. That may sound a touch pretentious but on songs like, Maybe Next Lifetime featuring BlakKat you can get the general idea.  The cinematic collages continue through the uncertain repetition of, Mirrors and on the eerily perfect, Just Love with Elina Monova – whose probing use of vocals lifts the music above and beyond. 8

release: April 23

http://soundcloud.com/manueltur/swans-reflecting-elephants-preview

http://www.freerangerecords.co.uk

Album Launch Party May 4 at Junction Room (London)

http://www.residentadvisor.net/event.aspx?348667

 

Various Artists
Baker Street 5th Anniversary
Baker Street Recordings

Superlative Leeds based label Baker Street celebrates its five years in existence with this collection of choice moments from its past, complimented by a selection of new remixes pointing towards the future.  Split over two CD’s, with the initial featuring the new versions, let’s start with the second as it opens with Matthias Vogt’s killer remix Paul Hardy’s Swirl  – which just so happens to be a favourite from last year. All the labels stalwarts are present here from Moodymanc to Jay Shepheard and Baker Street’s distinctive twist on American House music plays out fluently flitting between moods and instrumentation. The remix CD then comes care off the likes of Murray Richardson, Martijn and also includes the spectacular Lo Tech Remix of Lie To Me, so you know what quality to expect. 8

release: April 23

Free Album Mix http://soundcloud.com/bakerstreetrecordings/5th-anniversary-mixed-by-paul

http://www.bakerstreetrecordings.com/

 

Kellerkind
Basement Story
Sirion Records

Opening with the breezy, Jazz Cafe the album develops its theme with titles like the succinctly funky standout cut, Disco On The Dancefloor and cruises through everything from deeper to techy territory with ease. Although, it’s not always as straight forward as that may sound due to the colourful use of styles which are playfully incorporated into the mix: a hint of Jazz here, a touch of Ska there.  But that’s precisely what makes Basement Story quite so enjoyable. The album also includes a couple of bonus remixes and ends on the down-tempo orchestration of, The Black Cat Gismo for the sheer hell of it. 7

release: April 24

http://soundcloud.com/kellerkind/preview-album-kellerkind

http://www.sirion-records.ch/

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Reviews:17

                                                             

Sean Danke

‘Breath/ Leeks’

Something Different Records

Always good to start at the beginning as Jesus Pablo and Di Riviera celebrate their brand new imprint with this from Sean Danke. A name no doubt many of you are familiar with as the Reykjavik resident delivers what could suggestively be called techno at a strident tempo to match. However there’s something particularly infectious about the repeatedly disturbing voices and their accompanying syncopation as generated by Breath, can’t quite put my finger on exactly why but then that’s part of the appeal. Martijn remixes with typical flair and imaginatively pitches down the mood, although as it turns out with no less intensity with plenty of funky sequences on offer. Leeks, feels lighter in comparison, the piano helps, and spans nine minutes of invigorating danceable music. Philipp Ort then remixes the piano with added sparkle and layers of chords into warmer atmospheres to finish off round one. 8

release: 25 Oct 2011

http://www.facebook.com/somethingdifferentrecords

 

 

Tracey Thorn

‘Night Time E.P’

Strange Feeling Records

Night Time made perfect sense the second time I played it. Firstly because it’s an XX cover and secondly as Tracey Thorns consistently distinctive voice sounds so very right on this version, which also features a certain Ben watt on guitar and backing vocals alongside Ewan Pearson’s tasteful production. Next, Swimming gets reworked via an excellent re-tweaking of Visionquest’s remix from last year by Pearson. You know you’re in the company of future genius here as this sublime arrangement of fizzing electronic melody sits stunningly with the vocals, and the pay-off is well worth waiting for.  Emotive sounds and swirling atmospheres continue to compete for your attention on Charles Webster’s versions, which both hit the mark just as you would expect from him. 9

 release: 31 Oct 2011

http://www.strangefeelingrecords.com/

 

Darkness Falls

‘Alive In Us’

hfn music/ Fake Diamond Records

This band – there are two of them – have been appearing on the radar since their debut e.p was released last March. Danish duo Josephine Philip and Ina Lindgreen make the kind of noises which you could argue fit autumn like a glove, with pleasantly melancholy songs and sixties musical references – slightly Velvet Underground – floating in a certain direction on the first half of the playlist. You can picture the accompanying film and the scenes therein, which like reading books is just what you want. Produced by Trentemøller tracks such as The Void have the guitars feeling big and twanging while the electronics are wired into swirling moods and so on, conversely tracks like Josephine feel entirely haunting and epic. Paradise Trilogy II sees playful toms and chorus-like vocals combine with searing string sounds that are eerily reminiscent of one Ennio Morricone  – the finishing version III has whistling too . Timeline lifts the sense of melody into dirtier, funkier territory and proves to be one of the best tracks on the album, which as time plays on both the tempo and intensity lift into jumping up and down moments ending up at Hey! This may be a taste you might like to acquire. 7

release: 24 Oct 2011

http://www.myspace.com/darknessfallsmusic

 

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Reviews:12

MGMT
Late Night Tales
(Late Night Tales)

I liked MGMT’s last album, Congratulations. The care-free, breezy melodies reminded me of fun times in the seventies and naming one song after Brian Eno also has to be a definite plus. You could say this 10th anniversary selection for Late Night Tales (one of the best compilations around by far) continues the theme by focusing on what influenced that same album. You get everything from melancholy to sheer intensity or to put that in band terms you get Suicide, Velvet Underground and Durutti Column, along with a range of equally pivotal artists and songs. You also get an exclusive version by MGMT of Bauhaus, All We Ever Wanted Was Everything and if you can handle the sorrow Dave Bixby’s late sixties, and somewhat self-explanatory ode, Drug Song. Don’t know about saving the best for last but always pays to pay attention to Paul Morely as he reads from the self-penned, Lost For Words it somehow feels strangely fitting. 9.

http://latenighttales.co.uk/

released 3 Oct 2011

 

 
                                                                                                   

Miguel Migs
‘Outside The Skyline’
Om Records/ Salted Music

You know you must be onto something when you listen to the first track on an album twice in a row. So here’s hoping that one of my favourite producers – star of Naked Music- lives up to expectations. And just looking at the credits you see the names Evelyn ‘Champagne’ King, Bebel Gilberto and with the exquisite Lisa Shaw amongst many other notables prospects are obviously good. But then you just know this is going to be excellent, don’t you. From the down tempo Funk to up-tempo House – and by that I mean quality – this his third studio album never fails but to deliver a wealth of inspiration. You’ll love all the reference points and influences which come together under Migs’s school of exceptional production. Freddie McGregor even makes a welcome appearance on, They Don’t Know and just about every style worthwhile is represented with Georg Levin’s soulful tones finishing in heavenly fashion. 9

released 20 Spt 2011

http://www.om-records.com/

http://saltedmusic.com/

 

 

Shur-I-Kan
‘Staying In’
Lazy Days

Is staying in the new going out? Couldn’t care less about the answer to that one, give us music like this and we’re happy. There’s no easy way to tell you this, but main track Staying In is f**king excellent. It touches neatly upon the classic House cut-up technique which when it works it works just like this. Explosive, joyous, uplifting are words to go…Second track, Life Live is a typically deep Shur-I-Kan production though eminently danceable whereas One Ten eases down the tempo into a luscious piano-led journey back to the nineties. Nice. 9

released Beatport 20 Sept 2011. everywhere else 4 Oct.

http://lazydaysrecordings.com/

http://www.shur-i-kan.com/

 

  

Nachtbraker
‘Schwung Ep’
Deep Edition Recordings

Amsterdam producer Maurits Verwoerd makes his second appearance on the label with this striking set of three tracks. Ad Rem kicks off in blistering fashion with an up-tempo foray into Tech related House that keeps the genre moving forward. An inventive production for sure this twists off-kilter keys against thumping beats and works a treat. Schwung, follows with a deep sub-based groove which again throws up aural surprises on its way, while Warmloper picks up the pace with open hats and warm pads until the chords progress onto the payoff. 8

release Beatport 3 Oct 2011. everywhere else from 17 Oct.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Deep-Edition-Recordings/108353942567947

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