vinylcd -cosmic / nu disco / italo / balearic-date

Oh Goat, if only we could get more of you. We've been jamming their debut, World Music, with intensity. They impressed us with their originality and efficacy. And their mysterious identity, coupled with their self-made mythology only makes them that much more intriguing. So, needless to say, some of us have an insatiable appetite for Goat's music. To tide us over Goat drops this two track 7" of new material. Seeing as how many of the tracks on their debut were concise and to the point, the 7" seems to be a fitting format. They waste no time with "Dreambuilding" and jump right into their blazing riffs and propulsive drums. The chant along chorus comes in early enough to leave room for a guitar solo in the songs second half. Its brief 3 or so minutes will leave you hungry for more. Fuzzy guitars, persistent djembi rhythms and banshee screams come together for "Stonegoat" on the flip. The energy and sweat is clearly palpable as Goat blaze their own path.

• music label: Sub Pop 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 06/2013

More disco heaters from the infallible Kojak! For release number 15 DJ Ionik steps to Ebony Cuts for two masterful edits. First up on the chopping block is Jesse Gould's "Out of Work," a stomping, funky disco burner full of peak time energy. Ebony Cuts blends the vocal and instrumental versions from the original P&P release together for maximum bumpability. The result is a little off kilter because the kicks don't sit quite right, but who gives an F. This is a killer. On the flip he takes the razor to Roy Ayers break filled jazz funk classic, "Can't You See Me." It's a little mellower than the A side, but still worth that precious space in your bag.

• music label: Kojak Giant Sounds 2013

reviewed by Joey Coco 06/2013

Left field beats masterpiece from Gold Panda. Once again Derwin (aka Gold Panda) offers a breath of fresh air in the beats scene with the exquisite sounds of "Mountain" and "Financial District." The former takes you on a sonic journey with far east wind and percussion fused with modern beat techniques and drones to create a real sense of wonder, something kind of rare these days. "Financial District" keeps the dreamy vibe intact, albeit with a different, more dense atmosphere. Fans of BOC, Matthewdavid, etc. need to check this. Limited clear vinyl pressing with artwork from Andy Gilmore. Recommended.

• music label: Ghostly International 2013

reviewed by TKB 06/2013

Director Joseph Kosinski seems to have a thing for tasking French electronic acts with scoring his movies. The director tapped French touch stalwarts Daft Punk to handle the duties for 2010's Tron: Legacy and turns to M83 for the Oblivion OST. The Tom Cruise vehicle is fittingly soundtracked by the Antibes based Anthony Gonzalez. Absolute epicness seems to have been the call to arms as Gonzalez's synth based tracks seem to reach for the outer edges of the stratosphere. But while they might be stretching for new levels of space exploration, many of the tracks have a retro quality about them. They bring back memories of 80s movies in both structure and timber, with glassy arpeggios providing the momentum. Limited edition 180 gram 2LP housed in a gatefold sleeve.

• music label: Mondo 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 06/2013

Start Breaking My Heart is one of those albums that may throw some fans off. For those new to the world of Dan Snaith his debut album is something of an anomaly. The 10 tracks are relatively pure IDM, produced at a skill level high above what you would expect from a debut. It's a far cry from the brazen rhythms and crunchy, processed guitars of the albums that would follow, however it's a gentle reminder that the producer behind Daphni is firmly rooted in electronic production. Snaith shows a keen ear for off kilter loops which he mixes with disjointed rhythms. There is a light touch to nearly everything here, with warm synth pads easing you in and out of the mild cacophony. Acoustic instruments and live drums are woven together with heavily chopped beats. In the very least, Start Breaking My Heart proves to be an enjoyable listen that sheds light on the roots of Dan Snaith's many guises. Limited edition repress housed in a gatefold sleeve with free CD copy of the album.

• music label: Leaf 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 06/2013

Dan Snaith has cloaked himself in many guises over the years. When he first appeared as Manitoba, it was with the personal IDM of Start Breaking My Heart. The follow to that album, Up in Flames, threw the previous album's rule book out the window and sounded like the work of someone completely different. The precise electronics were traded in for pounding live drums and screaming guitars awash in noise. With the success of that album came more wide spread exposure and a threat from Handsome Dick Manitoba of the Dictators. Papers were served, a trade infringement lawsuit was threatened, and Caribou was born. The first offering from Snaith's new incarnation was Milk Of Human Kindness. The album follows that path set by Up In Flames but travels further down the psychedelic rabbit hole. The song arrangements are tighter, the individual elements more present and the vocals more pronounced. One thing that remained intact was the pounding, pedal to the metal energy of Up In Flames. And when that translated to two drummers in Caribou's live formation you really got a feeling for what Snaith was on about. Songs with potent dynamics and dramatic builds that smack you across the head once they reach full steam. Limited edition repress housed in a gatefold sleeve with free CD copy of the album.

• music label: Leaf 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 06/2013

Balearic gems from Grace Jones compiled by the good folks at Sunkissed Records! Sunkissed has been killing it with these Balearic Sound comps (this follows best selling volumes from Sade, Simply Red, and Fleetwood Mac) and here we have one of the best yet. You already know Ms. Jones gets the dancefloor movin' and shakin' with classic joints like "Pull Up To The Bumper" (available here in the essential Larry Levan Mix) and "Nipple To The Bottle," but Sunkissed digs deeper to reveal some more sides you might've missed. "Feel Up" rides a similar tropical dance vibe as the previously mentioned cuts, but "La Vie En Rose" is the crown jewel of the EP. The track was edited and released by Mark E not too long ago, but here is the full 12" Tom Moulton mix in all its glory. Can't front on the beautiful vibe this track creates. Recommended.

• music label: Sunkissed 2013

reviewed by TKB 06/2013

B.J. Smith (of Smith & Mudd fame) delivers a pair of brilliant cover versions of two hip hop favorites. Anyone familiar with Smith's work with Smith & Mudd should already know he is an expert in chilled-out balearic grooves, and here he lends his soft touch to stone cold classics from Mos Def & the Pharcyde. Somehow Smith is able to extrude the deep, soulful vibes from the core of the originals and translate them into stunning balearic folk ballads. Check the samples - you've never heard "Umi Says" and "Runnin" quite like this before! Recommended.

• music label: Nu Northern Soul 2013

reviewed by TKB 06/2013

Double 180g pressing! Random Access Memories is easily one of the most anticipated releases in recent memory, and Daft Punk deliver in aces on all the hype. For their long awaited 4th studio album (the latest since 2005's Human After All), Thomas Bangalter and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo call in legends of pop music history to help them create their most epic and ambitious work to date. From pioneering hit maker Nile Rodgers and synth icon Giorgio Moroder, to more recent super talents like Pharrell Williams, Panda Bear, and Chilly Gonzalez, Daft taps them all and take their sound to a whole new level with live instrumentation and complex arrangement - an evolution in electronic pop music. You probably already have "Get Lucky" with Pharrell and Nile on mental repeat, but checkout the funked out bump of "Doin' It Right" with Panda Bear," the arpeggio-laced disco odyssey that is "Giorgio By Moroder" featuring you know who, "Touch" and the throwback 80's vibe of "Fragments Of Time" with Todd Edwards. Smooth and sophisticated stuff throughout with the signature vocoder thrown in at just the right times. 13 tracks spread over two heavyweight LPs, housed in gatefold sleeve with booklet insert and download card. Recommended.

• music label: Columbia 2013

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2013

Moton coming through with that edit heat! For those unfamiliar, Moton emerged as a premier edit label sometime in the early 2000's (way before the current edit craze). The track selection on these joints is always superior than most, often cherry picking from a wide and eclectic range of deep cuts that work both on and off the dancefloor. This one by Diesel and Jarvis is no different, featuring a tasteful and super effective re-edit of a Lil Louis & The World house classic that's sure to rock any discerning dancefloor. Worth it for this one alone, but the flipside offers the perfect balance with the chilled balearic disco vibes of "Dog." Chalk up another winner from Moton! Originally released for RSD 2013, recommended.

• music label: Moton Records Inc. Classics 2013

reviewed by TKB 05/2013

Massive repress! Originally released in on CD 2007, Oramics collected the compositions of former co-founder and director of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, Daphne Oram, particularly that of her post BBC experimental work. Designed in 1957, Oramics (along with being the name Oram used to refer to her studio and business interests generally) is a drawn sound technique that involves drawing on 35mm film strips to control the sound produced. Oram further developed the process in 1962 after receiving a grant from the Gulbenkian Foundation. She would draw shapes on the film that would create a mask, which modulated the light received by photocells. Along with developing the instrument and becoming the first woman ever to design and build an electronic musical instrument, Oram produced a large and intriguing body of work. Of course there is her early material for the BBC, but there is much more to it than that. Oramics brings together 44 compositions from the pioneering electronic musician. It is material that is as varied as it is groundbreaking. The pieces range from classic playful interludes and commercial recordings to beautiful, immersive pieces. They all tend to feature her penchant for introspective and multi-layered material that proved that there could be depth in a field that many had yet to master. You can still hear Daphne Oram's influence in music that is being made today. Limited edition clear vinyl 4LP pressing housed in a deluxe gatefold sleeve full of archival photographs.

• music label: Young Americans 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013

The long-awaited compilation of tracks from left-field disco genius Arthur Russell has finally arrived from Soul Jazz, and despite a few minor reservations that only a confirmed disco nerd like myself could have, it's well worth the wait. Russell was a classically-trained cellist and composer steeped in the American experimental avant-garde tradition of composers like Philip Glass. He made some of the most compelling, challenging, and beautiful dance music ever committed to record after being turned on by visits to NYC clubs like the Loft, Gallery, and Paradise Garage. "Go Bang," recorded as Dinosaur L is present here in the superior Francois mix, is perhaps one of the most simultaneously atonal, dissonant, and funky records to ever become a dancefloor favorite– a maelstrom of near-free jazz dirty Rhodes chords and a driving four to the floor beat propelling ominous, desperate declarations that "I want to see all my friends at once/I wanna go bang!" It was a big Paradise Garage favorite, and its dark, druggy and sexy vibe was hugely influential to early house tracks like Sleazy D's "I've Lost Control." Russell's most well known track, Loose Joints' "Is It All Over My Face," shouldn't require too much of an introduction here, and if it does, just read my dissertation in the 12" review (I expect your 5-page paper with annotated sources next week, Spasticon). One of the greatest dance records ever, period. What distinguishes Russell as an artist (and further endears him to collectors) is the fact that he was also capable of creating softly beautiful tracks like "Keepin' Up," "In The Light Of The Miracle," and "Let's Go Swimming;" tracks that successfully integrated his interest in dance music with experimental, often minimalist compositions. "In The Light Of The Miracle" is one of the prizes of this collection; originally available on a stupid-rare promo-only pressing, "Miracle" is a serenely gorgeous, airily restrained 13-minute epic that defies categorization or description. Also includes essential, tough–to-find gems like "Pop Your Funk" (see 12" review), and "Wax The Van." The few minor complaints I have (the omission of Russell's first release, "Kiss Me Again" by Dinosaur, lack of material from the rare "World Of Echo" LP, weird track sequencing) are completely mollified by the dearth of brilliant material here, and the sheer value that the collection gives. Highly, highly recommended. 11 tracks spread over 3 LPs.

• music label: Soul Jazz Records 2009

reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2005

This is not quite what you would expect from Matthewdavid's Leaving Records and Stones Throw. The former traffics in abstract beats that follow in the wake of Flying Lotus, while the latter has its roots in hip hop but has dabbled in a little bit of everything as of late - save for the house and techno of The Cyclist, however. Bones In Motion may not be the most obvious jumping off point for a collaboration between the two labels, but the tell tale signs are there. The Irish producer uses a combination of elements that will not be unfamiliar; drum machines, samples, synths and a healthy dose of warm distortion. There are minimal exercises in simplicity coupled with dirt covered excursions to the dancefloor. While The Cyclist's contemporaries might aim for pristine productions, it appears he enjoys his sound running in the red through a vintage cassette deck. This will be welcome news to fans of both labels, as it seems The Cyclist embraces the experimentalism with a nod to the past that both thoroughly endorse.

• music label: Leaving Records 2013

reviewed by The Voice 05/2013

2008 found Baltimore based dream pop duo, Beach House, dropping their sophomore effort, Devotion. They took the opportunity to refine their sound and came through with bolder and brighter songs. The sense of eminent decay is still present, however they seem to have ditched the lo-fi aesthetic of their eponymous debut. Overall it's a consistently stronger effort than the previous release. They maintain their preference for skeletal percussion which helps to underscore their penchant for dense melodies. The vocals remain haunting as ever, with vocalist Victoria Legrand inviting us into the murky depths of her romantic consciousness. Gatefold double vinyl.

music label: Carpark Records 2008

reviewed by Señor Sueño Latino

Oh, the hazy shades of autumn tinged music. Beach House traffic in the tradition of the boy-girl duo making love-sick, narcotic rock and roll. Their particular sound is filtered through an orange lens as the seasons transition from warm to cold. The duo of singer/organist Victoria Legrand and guitarist Alex Scally will gently draw you into their world and then disappear like ghosts. Though they may bring to mind the Shoegazers as they moved away from the noise and distortion, their's is an altogether more intimate affair. It's dream pop from the foot of the bed, with a warmth that has not been felt in quite sometime. Do yourself a favor and get familiar with the sounds of Beach House. You will be more than happy that you did.

• music label: HeartBreakBeat Records 2010

reviewed by Señor Sueño Latino 04/2013

Laurie Spiegel's ground breaking debut album finally reissued! Originally released back in 1980 on the tiny Philo label, The Expanding Universe remains a sought-after and pioneering work in computer-based music. On first listen, the minimalist experimental / ambient vibes will remind you of work from Terry Riley, Steve Reich, Phillip Glass, or even Brian Eno - but the method in which this work was created is what makes it truly special. Laurie realized and composed these pieces completely from electronic sounds on the GROOVE system at Bell Laboratories between the years of 1974 and 1977, interacting with computer-based logic to create each piece (a feat far ahead of its time). The resulting music is rich and engrossing, full of slow churning sounds and evolving textures that totally suck you in to a world outside our own. The short sound samples really don't do justice, but check "Patchwork," "Old Wave," "Pentachrome," and the title track for a taste. Anyone who uses computer-based logic to create music (Ableton Live, Max/MSP,etc), definitely needs to hear this incredible work. Comes with free download card with expanded bonus tracks recorded from the same period, nearly all previously unreleased. Recommended.

• music label: Unseen Worlds 2013

reviewed by TKB 04/2013

Next level electro-jazz fusion from Four Tet and Rocketnumbernine. Four Tet (aka Kieran Hebden) recently went in the studio with London's Rocketnumbernine (aka Tom and Ben Page) and Floating Points (on mix and recording) for a completely live improv session resulting in this fine 12" we have here. The two tracks contained within these grooves ("Roseland" and "Metropolis") are a heady blend of cosmic vibes and dubby jazz with lush textures and live percussion, all done in one take with no edits. Impressive work to say the least! Here's hoping for more from these guys. Comes in cardboard sleeve on Hebden's own TEXT imprint.

• music label: TEXT 2013

reviewed by TKB 04/2013

Limited edition 180 gram 2LP reissue for Record Store Day 2013! Sigur Ros' breakout album took them to the top of the charts in Iceland and introduced the rest of the world to their unique sound. Here's your chance to get the much in demand album on deluxe 180 gram vinyl. It's been remastered especially for this reissue at Abbey Road!

• Limited edition 2LP reissue
• 1000 copies only
• music label: FatCat Records 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013

Record Store Day 2013 Exclusive! Special RSD edition of Olafur Arnalds For Now I Am Winter complete with limited fan art booklet and limited to only 1000 copies. For those unfamiliar with the young Icelandic pianist's work - think lush, cinematic soundscapes, perfect for a sojourn through the forest or that long, introspective drive home. This is a sound that would go well with a listening session of Sigur Ros (whom he actually toured with in the past). It is careful music that takes its time to progress and is moody, dramatic, and beautiful all at the same time. 12 tracks total on Deutsche Grammaphone.

• includes limited edition fan art booklet
• limited 1000 copies only

reviewed by TKB 04/2013

First vinyl pressing of Cut Copy's 2004 debut album for Record Store Day! In my opinion, their best album by a Robert Smith weird high-top mile. This album represents the bands most new wave-ish output, punctuated by all-out hits like "Saturdays" and "Going Nowhere." Special gatefold packaging with (3) art inserts. 4000 copies only.

• music label: Modular 2004 / 2013

reviewed by the mgmnt 04/2013

Limited edition blue vinyl pressing for Record Store Day 2013! Goat's World Music was one of 2012's standout records with its unique combination of disparate sounds and influences. The drum heavy "Run To Your Mama" gets the remix treatment on this second of two installments. The remixes featured here bring out the darker side of Goat. If you're looking for something to play out then head straight to the Cage & Aviary version. Otherwise, throw on the visual effects and prepare to trip the eff out. The various mixes bring out different elements of the track, showing you that there is more than one side to Goat.

• Exclusive remixes of Goat's "Run to Your Mama"
• Limited edition blue vinyl
• 2000 copies only
• music label: Rocket Recordings 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013

Limited edition blue vinyl pressing for Record Store Day 2013! Goat's World Music was one of 2012's standout records with its unique combination of disparate sounds and influences. The drum heavy "Run To Your Mama" gets the remix treatment on this first of two installments. The sound here is dub heavy, none of the typical "dance" remix business. Spacey effects, dubbed out vocals and plenty of reverb. The various mixes bring out different elements of the track, showing you that there is more than one side to Goat.

• Exclusive remixes of Goat's "Run to Your Mama"
• Limited edition blue vinyl
• 2000 copies only
• music label: Rocket Recordings 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013

Rare italian library music reissued just for Record Store Day 2013! Strut hooks up the deep diggers and collectors with the 1979 concept gem Desert by composer/arrangers Antonio Vuolo and Elio Grande. The original is impossible to find, released on tiny Italian label Cardium, and demands a pretty penny when it does surface. Here you get the full album, mastered from the OG reels with full repro artwork from the original lithographs. Fans of spacey electronic fusion and cosmic sounds (a la Tangerine Dream) should be all over this. Limited stock, only 500 copies in the US!

• music label: Strut 2013

reviewed by TKB 05/2013

The fantastic "Balearic Sound of..." series of 12” compilations from Sunkissed Records is back! Linda Di Franco, one of the undisputed queens of the laidback Mediterranean scene in the early 80s, is featured this time around. The hard to find Sensurround Mix of her Balearic classic, "TV Scene," is a perfect introduction to Linda's cool sexy sound and makes it easy to understand why the original 12" is so in demand. It oozes sultry summery sensuality, topped with some seriously soulful sax. Her gloriously dreamy take on Dusty Springfield's "Look Of Love" follows. On the flip we get the extended 12" mix of "My Boss," highly sought after since being one of the standouts on DJ Harvey's cult Sarcastic mix. And lastly, under-rated album track "Stay," a balmy funk groover given extra sizzle from Ms Di Franco's trademark X-rated breathy vocal performance. A wonderful collection of Balearic moments not to be missed.

• music label: Sunkissed Records 2012

reviewed by Joey Coco 03/2013

The granddaddy of all underwater music records is here! Sven Libaek's original TV soundtrack to Ron and Val Taylor's Inner Space is mostly known for being used by Wes Anderson for The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou. It definitely struck me when I first heard it. Libaek was a library music composer who's music is warm, gentle and jazzy but still a touch weird. There's plenty of room for experimentation in his compositions. Ron and Val Taylor were the most experienced researchers in their field, sharks. They took particular interest in great white sharks and were tapped by Steven Spielberg to film the live shark sequences for Jaws. Deluxe gatefold 180 gram vinyl collectors edition. Remastered from the original master tapes.

• music label: Votary Records 2012

reviewed by Señor Sueño Latino 02/2013

It's time once again to let go and decompress with Kompakt's annual ambient compilation. The long running Pop Ambient series never fails to rejuvenate worn and tired ears with a choice selection of contemporary drone, ambient, and experimental soundscapes of the beat-less variety. The 2013 edition features pieces from Michael Mayer, Mikkel Metail, Wolfgang Voigt, Leandro Fresco, Triola, and many others you probably haven't heard of. Mellow astral travel vibes for days, perfect for that introspective zone-out session. Keep it mellow. Comes in pic sleeve with included CD version. 10 tracks in all.

• music label: Kompakt 2013

reviewed by TKB 02/2013

The three artists featured on the L.I.E.S. American Noise Sampler reveal the diversity of Ron Morelli's New York based label. The A side is given over to Torn Hawk who's "This Is Crime & Lace" blurs the boundaries between avant garde musique concrete, experimental electronica and post-punk industrial soundscapes while still featuring traces of Chicago house. Early label contributor Marcos Cabral drops a slow and sinister slice of techno with a rubber-band bassline that will work its way through your skull. Closing out the release is relative new comer Delroy Edwards who hit hard with his label debut, 4 Club Use Only. "Feelings" is a fittingly distorted blown out take on house that was recently featured on Ben UFO's Fabric mix CD.

• music label: Long Island Electrical Systems 2012

reviewed by Joey Coco 01/2013

Back to back Eno gems on 12" from Slow To Speak. Compilers Francis Engelhardt and Paul Nickerson give shine to two important Brian Eno collaborations here, one with Jon Hassell , the other with David Bowie. Hassell released Fourth World Music on Eno's EG imprint back in the early 80's and "Ba Benzele" is the essence of their ethno-ambient fusion. "Subterraneans" off David Bowie's Low takes the B-side, a powerful and emotionally charged ambient soundscape that is both haunting and beautiful. Essential listening for those that enjoy being trasported to other worlds via sound. High quality pressing housed in silk screened sleeve, recommended.

• music label: Slow To Speak 2012

reviewed by TKB

Scottish band with links to The Beta Band bring the sing-a-long cheer to your turntable. Taken from a collection of remixes released late 2012, Django Django drop an exclusive 10" edit with Priests of Sound remix by Steve Mason of the late, great Beta Band. Comes in clear sleeve to showcase the vibrant 10" pic disc pressing.

• music label: Because Music 2012

reviewed by Gene Jacket 1/2013

Big balearic vibes from DJ Harvey on single sided, laser-etched vinyl! Harvey has a cult following for a reason - his DJ sets are the stuff of legend (if you've been to Sarcastic Disco you know what I'm talking about), and his edit and remix work is impeccable. Here he takes Dr. Beat from San Sebastian's classic early 2000's balearic tune "Mediterraneo" and gives it a 2013 revamp, totally pumping up the drums and adding propulsive synth stabs to keep it moving. He manages to do all this while keeping the signature Spanish guitar work in the mix, keeping that breezy balearic feeling intact. Perfect for beachside parties, rooftops, and sunrise/sunset jams. Limited import pressing.

• music label: Eskimo 2012

reviewed by TKB 01/2013

Welcome repress of Nite Jewel's full length debut. Nite Jewel has certainly come a long way since 2008's Good Evening, from collaborating with West Coast funk master Dam-Funk to putting out material on Mexican Summer and Italians Do It Better. With her recent material being much more developed and produced, it's cool to see where it all started. Our original review from 2008: Loving the sweet, lo-fi sounds of Nite Jewel. After her release on Italians Do It Better, I was wondering where I was gonna find more from the LA singer/producer/composer. Luckily we got in this LP on Gloriette which seems like a small-press kinda deal that would be pretty hard-to-find. "Good Evening" is part shoe gaze, part new disco, part old school r&b, and part freestyle(?) all composed on a portable 8-track cassette deck with layered tape edits (hence that authentic low tech sound). It's a beautiful thing in these days of over-done tracks. Check the joints that made it to 12" on IDIB ("What Did He Say" and "Let's Go") or go for the deep RnB funk of "Weak For Me," the slow jammy goodness of "Artificial Intelligence," or space-out to the sound of "Suburbia" or "Universal Mind." 10 tracks total now with free MP3 download. Recommended.

• music label: Gloriette 2012

reviewed by TKB 12/2012

Roche continues to deliver his distinct brand of house and techno with this release on 100% Silk. His four track EP for the LA based label, A Night At The Haç, may or may not be a tribute to the legendary Manchester club. Either way it still channels the spirit of that era. The title track channels piano house through a distorted lens, blending off kilter keys with banging rhythms. Acid House is Roche's next touchstone with "Outsider Insider" while "CG Vision" is from another world entirely. His agility with synths is showcased on the closer, "Psycho Zombie Dreams." Half science fiction soundtrack, half pounding techno, with a dark vision all its own.

• music label: 100% Silk 2012

reviewed by Joey Coco 01/2013

100% Silk has been releasing its unorthodox strain of dance music for a good minute now. "Just Wanna Feel" sees Mi Ami drummer Magic Touch (aka Damon Palermo) team up with lo-fi pop artist Sapphire Slows (Tokyo’s Hiramatsu Kinuko) for a floaty, disco tinged house adventure. Palermo has his way with Slows' vocals, blending them in with the title track quite nicely, and getting an assist from L.I.E.S.'s Bookworms. I:Cube's remix takes things down a darker path. On the flip is a track that sounds like it would fit in with music from the baggy era of the Hacienda. Marshall Jefferson-esque pianos lead the way while Kinuko gets extra hooky on the chorus. The Magic Touch dub is decidedly more Italo, minimizing the pianos in favor of a driving arpeggio.

• music label: 100% Silk 2012

reviewed by Joey Coco 01/2013

A return to form for the godfather of ambient, Brian Eno. Whereas 2005's Another Day On Earth found Eno experimenting with song-based synth jams, Lux breaks his music down to its purest form. No drums or percussion, or even rhythmic synth stuff here - just four tracks of pure ambience. It is easy to draw comparisons to Music For Airports or Plateau Of Mirror while listening to these beautiful soundscapes, but these are completely new pieces evolved from a work currently housed at the Great Gallery of the Palace of Venaria in Turin, Italy. Each track takes up a whole side, roughly 20 minutes each of sonic bliss. Thick import double LP pressing in gatefold sleeve. Limited to 1000. Recommended.

• music label: Warp 2012

reviewed by TKB 12/2012

Psychemajik & RedKen re-edit two classic Fleetwood Mac bangers made in conjunction with the Fleetmac Wood tribute party, a night dedicated to the Mac. Psychemajik takes the Mac's most recognized jam, Dreams, and gives it such a breath of fresh air it makes you wanna hear the remix 5 times, then jam the OG ten more times. Simple, moody, and not over the top remix with dubby delays and great synth work that adds so much to the original. RedKen takes "Big Love" and makes it BIGGER. Again, nothing over the top, but just the right amount of remix. Full kick drums, great grooving baseline, some delayed vocals with great dance floor tension. Two crate classics see an update that will keep the Mac playing in the clubs for years to come. Recommended.

reviewed by taco vato 12/2012

Since the beginning Prins Thomas has always handled his own instrumentation. The idea was always there to bring in other musicians but it never panned out. And you know, when you play music with people it's always better when their your friends or friends of friends. A bunch of musicians jamming and having fun as if nothing else matters but the moment. Well, finally Mr. Thomas was able to pull it off and Prins Thomas Orkester was born. It's your loving cosmic disco prince and his wild band of cohorts making some fantastically interesting treats for your ears! The tracks on the "øving" EP are all reworks of Prins' back catalog tracks, recorded almost live in a maximum of two takes. Pretty impressive for a jam based project. The Orkester tackles "Slangemusikk," "Uggebugg" and "Sauerkraut" from his debut album, and transforms them into "Snake Music," "Hamar Bluesklubb" and "Surkål." And the last track, "Arild Moen," is a new version of the 12" track "Morfar." To top off this orgy of Norwegian disco heads, it's all mixed and massaged by none other than Todd "Terje" Olsen and mastered to perfection by Chris Sansom at Propeller Studios. Just what you and the lady need for these cold winter nights.

• music label: Full Pupp 2012

reviewed by Señor Sueño Latino 12/2012

San Francisco based Roche has a penchant for classic house as viewed through his own abstract perspective. With Auragan, his debut on Jamal Moss' Mathematics imprint, he turns in three tracks that are bathed in a subtle purple haze. The opener, "San Quimico," seems to be generating the most heat. Its a combination of percolating synthesizers, vocal chops and half time percussion that slowly evolves into a cosmic house burner. On the flip we are treated to two tracks that seem to wholeheartedly embody the Mathematics spirit. "Lftl Eternal" offers up a circular percussion loop that is buoyed by an arpeggiated bass line and solid drum machine work. The EP closes with the title track's warm organ chords which set the stage for an uplifting sunrise excursion. Recommended.

• music label: Mathematics 2012

reviewed by Joey Coco 11/2012

Critical praise is rightfully due when you are as young as Tame Impala frontman Kevin Parker making the incredibly dense, beautiful psychedelic freak outs we have come to love. This 2010 release hit heavy with the critics, but the mass appeal wasn't quite there yet. We thought we would bring it back to the lab to show you the greatness that is Tame Impala. Just as the cosmic journey that 2012's Lonerism took us on, consider this the surf mission that leads to the enlightened world we will eventually fully embrace. With David Fridmann of Flaming Lips fame helping on the final album mix, Parker achieved the explosive sound he was looking for. The sun drenched guitar licks and over driven drum breaks add a sense of nostalgia similar to Caribou's Up in Flames, anything Beatles, & the UK's A Band Of Bees. This is modern Psychedelia at it's finest with just enough a nod to the past and a straight look into the future.

• music label: modular records

reviewed by: taco vato 11/2012

Cosmic disco heat from the Visitors on Citizen Kane's Disques Sinthomme imprint. In its original form, "Night Fever" is on par with classics from Space with its chugging bass, tight drums, and cosmic vibe that is set to take the dancefloor on a trip. For remix duties, they've enlisted the mighty Idjut Boys who emphasize the spaced-out vibe of the original with all manner of disco dub magic. Check Version Idjut for a taste, then go for the Idjut Dub Flang for the full dose. Heavy!

• music label: Disques Sinthomme 2012

reviewed by TKB 11/2012

Downtown Party Network coming extra schmooove on their debut for Is It Balearic? Recordings. Both of the originals on this 12" are top notch balearic disco groovers ("The Returning" and "Leaving You Ocean") that bring to mind the warm summer breeze (even tho it's NYC winter outside). Check the shimmery synth work on "Leaving You Ocean" and the infectious groove of "The Returning," while Prins Thomas and Time & Space Machine turn up the cosmic vibe into over drive on the remixes. Hard to pick a favorite since everything on here is totally quality and highly playable! Recommended for the cosmic jocks and balearic bros.

• music label: Is It Balearic? 2012

reviewed by TKB 11/2012

Incredible live recordings from the godfathers of electronic music. This limited edition vinyl features two very different, but equally genius sides of Kraftwerk that need to be heard (especially if you missed out on their recent live shows in NY). "Live in Paris 1976" showcases the softer, more melodic side of Kraftwerk with the two part "Kometenmelodie." Fans of ambient and kosmische soundscapes will freak over these (I know I did), while "Live in Utrecht 1981" gives us the the electro sound that Kraftwerk is best known for. Many classics like "Numbers, Computer World, Pocket Calculator, The Model" and others can be heard here in live form, complete with erupting crowd cheers in between each song. Heavy import pressing on grey vinyl, housed in clear plastic sleeve. Recommended.

• music label: B13 2012

reviewed by TKB 10/2012

Amazing cover of Suicide's "Dream Baby Dream" from Neneh Cherry & The Thing. With the original being pretty much perfect, creating a convincing cover version would seem a daunting task (Bruce Springsteen couldn't do it), but Neneh and The Thing pull it off with flying colors with an assist from Four Tet on the remix. Mr. Hebden's stomping, chime-driven house riddim is the perfect match to Neneh's delicate, emotive vocals. The result is something you'll have on repeat for sure. On the flip, Nordic disco duo Lindstrom & Prins Thomas transform Neneh & The Thing's "Cashback" into a 9 minute cosmic disco excursion. Recommended.

• music label: Smalltown Supersound 2012

reviewed by TKB 10/2012

Deluxe reissue of Chromatics' Night Drive now on limited colored vinyl! This 2010 effort really put Chromatics on the map. The cover of Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill(1)" is just an awesome slow burner, while "Healer" and "Tomorrow Is So Far Away" brings the beat to the heat for that extra bump. The killer synthwork from Johnny Jewel paired with Ruth's poetic vocals is seductive and demands multiple listens. And just in case you're not in the mood for words, there's the instrumentals "I Want Your Love" and "Let's Make This A Moment To Remember." Titles sound like Smokey Robinson singles? Not quite, but they are smokey for sure. Also check out "Circled Sun," a hypnotic nu disco track built on subtle layers of guitar, synths, and drums that's full of that after-hours vibe prevalent throughout the album. Double LP, comes with free MP3 download. Highly Recommended.

• music label: Italians Do It Better 2012

reviewed by Cmish

There's dusty thrift store in north Brooklyn that's reached a sort of cult status amongst record diggers in NY. It was one of those spots where a few hours time would result in unearthing some hidden gems. If you've been checking out the TTL ECE blog for a few years you might have caught a pic of Michna along with Snack & Cmish doing their due diligence in the basement there. At this point it's been gone through by just about everyone and their mother, but the lucky few are able to come away with some serious finds. Anyway, this is all besides the point. WOZ is one of those records that you are lucky to find if you ever do. Not so much as a sought after digger piece, but more so because of its inherent singularity amongst recorded music. Originally released in 1981 on what was ostensibly a private label, WOZ is one man's shot into the brave new world of affordable synthesizers and home recording. Something that could only have been created at that moment and put down on wax, only to be forgotten about and lost in time. Fortunately WT Records came across the album in some dusty basement and saw fit to make an attempt to reissue it. From WT Records: Originally released in a highly limited pressing in 1981, this synth jazz funk soundtrack freakout record was destined for cult status. WT Records found a copy in a dirty basement complete with newspaper clippings and a business card. A search began for this multi-instrumentalist from Wilmington, Delaware. WT tracked him down through various websites and made contact with the still active musician. After several unsuccessful attempts at reissuing the record on other labels, WT Records stepped up to give this lost gem a wider release. These 9 tracks cover the whole spectrum of emotions, from schizophrenic drum machine dissonance to dreamy, soothing soundtracks. Truly a must-have cult reissue.

• Music Label: WT Records 2012

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 10/2012

Golf Channel turns in another stellar disc from Dominik Von Senger (The Phantom Band, Dunkelziffer). This time around Thomas Bullock of Rub N Tug offers up two remixes of Senger's "Only Love Can Take Us Home" under his Welcome Stranger guise. They're two unique takes that go in unexpectedly beautiful directions but keep the krautrock close to their respective hearts. Senger's guitar work is reminiscent of Manuel Göttsching's work with Ash Ra Temple and his Inventions for Electric Guitar. "Mix 2" gets particularly slow and dark, and shows just how adept Bullock is behind the boards.

• Music Label: Golf Channel 2012

reviewed by Señor Sueño Latino 09/2012

Erol Alkan has brought his special brand of bastard pop to remixes for acts like Franz Ferdinand and Justice, and opened for Madonna and Daft Punk. His Monday club night Trash has grown to become one of the most adventurous and influential in the world. His first foray into DJing was back in 2001 when he was invited to play at Bugged Out and he returns every Easter with a marathon set - 2012's was 9 hours long - eschewing support DJs in favor of building the night himself. With Another Bugged Out Mix Erol delivers a diverse selection of music that spans over 4 decades. There are classics from the likes of Ron Hardy and Model 500 mixed with newer material like In Flagranti and Factory Floor. It's an impressive journey from a seasoned DJ. Features tracks from Seaside Houz Boyz, Umba, Jimmy Edgar, Scuba, Amin Peck, N.Y. House'n Authority, Jan Hammer Group, Matthew Herbert, Bibio, Mickey Moonlight, and many more. 39 tracks in all on two mixed CDs in classic jewel case packaging.

• Music Label: !K7 2012

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 08/2012

As if the beautiful music and pic sleeve wasn't enough, XL has pressed up this record to play in reverse! The 10" baffled our audio recorders for a moment as the needle refused to play into the grooves, but alas, we tried playing it from the inside out and it worked! A strange novelty, but extremely cool novelty for sure. This super limited edition single from Sigur Ros features the epic and euphoric "Varuo" lifted from their recent Valtari full length, plus the unreleased track "Logn." Recommended.

• music label: XL 2012

reviewed by TKB 08/2012

Mi Ami band members Ital and Magic Touch have been making a lot of noise on the left of center dance music scene in the past year. With respective solo singles for 100% Silk they helped the label become the juggernaut it has. While some may find the supposed irreverence with which they approach their productions off putting, it is refreshing to take in a different perspective and see some feathers get ruffled. Magic Touch traffics in high energy, sample based house, and with "Anywhere You Want Me" it comes on heavy. It gets a heavy dark side remix from Ital that sounds like a trip to Satan's gospel church. "From A Dream" breaks the spell with chopped up vocal samples and rubber-band boogie bass. The last 3 minutes of the Magic Touch remix just might be my favorite part of this record though. Any semblance of a dance song is stripped away to reveal a percolating drone that shows just how adept at manipulating sound this duo is.

• Music Label: 100% Silk 2012

reviewed by The Voice 08/2012