vinylcd -downtempo / beats / electronica-date

Nearly 20 years after its initial release, Aphex Twin's Selected Ambient Works Volume II has maintained its status as one of the landmark albums of electronic music. Picking up where Selected Ambient Works '85-'92 left off, it is appears that this album was composed over a much shorter period of time. There is more cohesion between the individual tracks and the record's sequencing leads to a grander statement than its predecessor. Although it may have confounded those fans looking for the intense gabber workouts and techno explorations that Aphex had made his mark with, Selected Ambient Works Volume II follows in the path set out by early electronic and ambient pioneers like Brian Eno, Erik Satie, Steve Reich, and Terry Riley with tremendous success. The pieces are at once eerie and soothing, balancing subtle dissonance with mournful drones. There's a dark and creepy underbelly to the whole affair. And while all that may sound dark and brooding, there is an uplifting quality to the work. The album was released without any track names, save for "Blue Calx," just a color coded chart for each side with an associated picture on the sleeve. Over the years fan impetus led to each track being given a name based on the image representing it (i.e. "Rhubarb" for track 3). Unfortunately, the elusive "Stone In Focus" - track E2 on the original vinyl release - is missing from this reissue. Selected Ambient Works Volume II is one of the highlights of Richard D. James' prolific career and a must for any fan of ambient electronic music. Includes a semi-gloss single-sided paper insert. Recommended.

• Music Label: 1972 2012

reviewed by The Voice 05/2012

The original "My Daddy Waza" undoubtedly will evoke Serge Gainsbourg on first listen with its low, drifting vocals that have just the right amount of smoke & sleaze. Kid Loco’s production, however, leans on to the psychedelic Latin side of things with locked in percussion, soaring horns and pianos. Buenos Aires producer Ezequiel Lodeiro (aka Dr. Stereo) locks in his own "Latinazo" style remix of the tune for a four-to-the-floor banger that really lets the piano chops and percussion shine out. On the flip, Italian producer Suonho strips things down and unleashes a beast of a remix with funky stand-up bass, Rhodes chords and bigger piano parts, of course. Brooklyn’s own Greenwood Rhythm Coalition comes in last, dropping the piano and horns and running the synth parts hard for a shimmering analog Psych-cum-Cumbia infected joint that rounds things off perfectly with the female vocals on the chorus. Also included is the instrumental for your DJing pleasure.

• music label: Bastard Jazz 2012

reviewed by label 05/2012

Debut single for Airhead on the esteemed R&S label. The London-based producer's beats have been drawing comparisons to early James Blake and with one listen to "Wait" it is easy to see why. The subtle textures, abstract programming, and oddly chopped-but-still-catchy vocals seem to be a winning formula that only a select few producers can pull off with class and style. Airhead is definitely one of them. Also includes "South Congress" on the flip for more lush and delicate post-dubstep flavor.

• music label: R&S 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2012

Impressive full length from Matt "Lone" Cutler for R&S. Galaxy Garden confirms our suspicions that Lone would be one to look out for, a feeling we had after hearing the stellar "Once In A While" on Kode9's DJ-Kicks mix, and know on his his fifth album since 2007 (that averages to about one a year!), he delivers his most complete and cohesive work to date. On Galaxy Garden, Lone is skillfully takes elements of old school rave, garage, techno, footwork, and bass and creates something familiar, yet totally unique. There are few producer peers in the scene (maybe just Rustie?) that can pile on as many intricate layers in a single track and still make it sound uncluttered and coherent. A quick listen to cuts like "A New Colour," "The Animal Pattern," "Crystal Caverns 1991," "Cthulu" and "Dream Girl/Sky Surfer" reveal a love for old school roots coated with a fresh, new school sheen. 12 tracks in all with free CD version of the entire album.

• music label: R&S 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

Another meeting of the minds on wax. Burial and Four Tet are two names that need no introduction. Both have been at the top of their game for awhile now, and when they put their heads together, you can bet the result is gonna be something brilliant. "Nova" is their third collab 12" ("Moth/Wolf Cub" came before, and the first was with Thom Yorke) and once again the duo exceed expectations with a track that is melodic, ethereal, driving, and deep, all at once. Does this complete the trilogy? Only time will tell. Limited copies, pressed on one sided vinyl. Recommended.

• music label: Text Records 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

A 1995 collection of early Rephlex and R&S recordings. The opening track on here, "Digeridoo" was his first big track and the one that brought attention to this bedroom freak. The story is that some DJ thought it might be weird to put this on during a party and people started dancing bugged out to it. Somehow it caught on from there and became an underground hit. Back in high school, stuff off these labels was hard as hell to track down. Shit came in bubble wrap, no sticker, sometimes no markings at all. I had my friend hunt down the Digeridoo 12", and he found it in some record shop in France that looked like a cave. I was pretty amazed that he tracked it down, but when I finally got to hear this record, I was confused. It wasn't the dreamy stoned sound on the tracks from Selected Ambient Works, but a harsh, super aggressive sound that got me shook. The sound on this comp is hard and electronic, kinda like early Detroit, but analog dirtier with more warmth. Normally I wouldn't give this style much of a chance, but since it was Aphex Twin, I left it out. I found myself listening to it at strange times for no particular reason and enjoying for less reason. Heads searching for the dreamy Aphex sound will get a rest with "Polynomial -C" and the classic "Analogue Bubblebath I." If you liked Ambient Works you might like the dichotomy presented here, but if you want to chill you might want to stay away. No trips.

• music label: R&S Records 1995

reviewed by the mgmnt

When I was in high school, I thought I was some sort of stoned philosopher. Talking about reptilian minds and shit, I used this album as my portal to higher consciousness and advanced stonerism. I worshipped the fuck out of this record, so much so that I camped out by the Twin's tour bus, because my friend Stang made me miss his first appearance in DC. Anyway, usually whenever I travel back to that phase, most things make me want to vomit. Floor scrubbing jeans, check. Phillies blunts shirts, check. H-cut ecstasy, check. Rocking clothes with 8 Balls on em, check. Dirty rave boderline-hippy chicks, check. BUT, the thing about this album is that I still worship it. From day one, I declared this one of the records I would take onto that mystical desert island, and I still would (along with the Queen is Dead and Loveless, so tacky). In my mind it's the best electronic album ever. The first track "Xtal" is as close to heaven you'll get through a walkman. "Ptolemy" is breakbeat driven lush. "We Are the Music Makers" is my dubby buddy. Some tracks are outright strange, and will rewire parts of your brain. 13 tracks spread over 2LPs on a limited edition grey area pressing. Recommended.

reviewed by the mgmnt

First ever full length LP from the good people at PPU. UKU KUUT's "Vision Of Estonia" 7" is an all-time favorite among heads here at the Lab, so we were stoked to see a whole album of material come to fruition. If you dug the 45, you'll love the LP as it is stacked with the same kind of laid back leftfield beats and lost 80's boogie grooves. Here's what the PPU had to say about it: PPU's first long-play LP highlights some of the early beginnings of one of our favorite producers, UKU KUUT. Written and recorded at UKU's home studio in Los Angeles and Stockholm between 1982 & 1989. Some tracks co-written with Maryn E. Coote, famous jazz vocalist who had her beginnings in 1960s Soviet Union. "That's my MOM" recalls UKU, "I remember when I was little, sitting under the mixing board at her sessions". Growing up in studios, UKU's love of music production began early, and over the years he has amassed a vast collection of domestic and soviet electronic gear. In true PPU style this LP is a mix of UKU KUUT's raw cassette demos, forgotten masters and unreleased magic. 10 tracks with full pic sleeve. Recommended.

• music label: People's Potential Unlimited 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

Step into Toro Y Moi's time travelling DeLorean and go back to the late 2000's. That's what's happening on June 2009, a retrospective of work from before Chaz Bundick's rise to fame in the indie music scene. The production contained on these five 7"s actually pre-date his 2 full lengths and give us a glimpse of Toro's early experimentation with music software and sampling (from June 2009, duh). The slick synths and technical wizardry of his later efforts is swapped out for a hazy lo-fi glow that ties all these tracks together stylistically. Lots of fuzzy guitars on here too, plus the mellow emotion driven vocals with naive melodies make for a great listening with your significant other. 10 previously unreleased tracks spread over 5 x 45s, each with their own cover art. Also includes a free digital download, postcard, and stickers. Recommended.

• music label: Carpark Records 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

Another sureshot 45 from Detroit's Funk Night Records via Motor City heavyweights, Will Sessions. These guys are killing it from every angle - funk, jazz, fusion, hip hop... Apparently they can do no wrong! On this one they go for a tough reinterpretation of BR Gunna and Phat Kat's "True Story." These guys are masters at giving hip hop beats a real live feel. On the flipside things get heavy heavy on "Dub Rock," a track based off the Black Milk cut of the same name. Two sides of fire right here, well recommended!

• music label: Funk Night Records 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2012

Will Sessions do it up for the jazz heads. The five piece band from Detroit might best be known around these parts for their amazing live renditions of hip hop classics (see Elmatic or Mix Takes) and their smokin' funk originals (check those Funk Night 45s), but on 2010's Kindred the band showcase their talent for jazz fusion styles. With super influential jazz labels like Tribe coming from Detroit, it only makes sense they would do a tribute to the pioneers of the sound. This really sounds like a rare record from the 70's full of lush spiritual and free jazz moods, together with powerful drums at times. Check the sound on the uplifting "Redirections," "Omniverse" or the driving "Polyester People" and "Seven Miles." The title track "Kindred" even features Tribe Records veteran Wendel Harrison! Excellent stuff from start to finish. Recommended.

• music label: The Few

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 05/2012

The title track from Tycho's 2011 full length gets a proper 12" release along with a couple fresh remixes. In its original form, "Dive" is a brilliant piece of driving dreamy goodness that makes you feel like you are running through the clouds. It skillfully blends shoegaze, indie, electronic, and balearic into something you can put on repeat over and over again. For the remix, Keep Shelly In Athens slow it down to a crawl for a euphoric down beat variation, while Memoryhouse drop most of the drums and draw the focus on those lush textures. Housed in a beautiful pic sleeve.

• music label: Ghostly 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2102

While his formative years were spent listening to everything from Yes to Photek, Scott Hansen didn't get his hands on an actual guitar or drum machine until he left his native Sacramento for San Francisco in 1995. "Encountering this whole new world at 20 years old was a profound experience," says Hansen, better known by his musical pseudonym Tycho and as the graphic artist ISO50. "At the time, I was just learning the processes of design and music; both felt very similar, and have flowed back and forth for me ever since." As seamless as his two creative outlets have been, nearly a decade passed before the release of Hansen's first proper Tycho LP, Sunrise Projector. And while three striking singles have emerged since then, the sum of all those sepia-toned parts is nowhere near the double-exposed soundscapes of Dive. The product of a prolonged break from IS050's design work and blog, it pays tribute to Tycho's prismatic past (the dense, guitar-guided turning points of "Daydream" and "Adrift") but spends most of its time pointing to the project's not-so-distant future. That can mean any number of things, really, from the halcyon hooks and hopeful horizons of "A Walk" to the expansive, wildly expressive tone poetry of the title track, an eight-minute epic that unfolds like a compressed concept album. Or at the very least, a restless vision of prog-rock - one that's been coated in neon colors and filtered through a thick piece of blotter paper. And then there's "Elegy", a spare curtain closer that pairs a vulnerable crescendo with a fitting bridge to future works. And with that, Dive establishes its position as the most diverse musical statement of Hansen's multi-medium career; the point where his skills as a performer finally catch up with his vaporized vision of a world that doesn't belong to any particular time or place.

• music label: Ghostly International 2011

reviewed by Ghostly 12/2011

Here's where it started, the debut album from Steven Ellison aka Flying Lotus, back in print on splatter grey vinyl! Before blowing up on Warp or running his Brainfeeder label, we already had a feeling that Flylo was destined for big tings. Check our original review from 2006: Out here in LA, this Flying Lotus guy has been receiving a lot of hand to hand, word of mouth type hype. I don't even keep up with this kind of stuff, but his name has been in the right conversations for a minute. You know something's got to be pretty good when people are saying "Stones Throw intern" and "you need to check this out" in the same breath. His sound basically fits in with the whole Los Angeles underground future soul thing (SIC, Sa-Ra, Dilla, PPP, Ubiquity sound, etc), but taking it even more into the cosmic mind feckery through instrumentals like "1983." I like where this is going; no half stepping on the outer space ish with this guy. Strap in, float around, talk to Hal, cause there's 10 tracks of this stuff. "Pet Monster Shotglass" is one of my favorites, if nothing else for onomatopoeia of it (sounds like a drunken little buddy from the muppets). Aside from the space shit, Brazilian influence pops up more than once, sometimes only in name, like "Orbit Brazil," and later in style with "Unexpected Delight" featuring Laura Darlington on some very pretty vocals. This is one of those records that can kind of be whatever you want it to; pay attention and get lost in the subtle complexity of his wrap around sound (z o n e o u t), or just leave it on in the back and get some work done. Includes a Daedelus remix of "1983," and I guess I should mention that he descends from the Coltrane line. Recommended.

• music label: Plug Research 2011

reviewed by the mgmnt 2006

Special 4LP repress of The Cosmic Game for Record Store Day 2012. This album was originally released back in 2004 and found Thievery Corp on top of their game with a host of very impressive host of guest artists. By this point TC had fully mastered the downtempo, world, lounge, ragga hybrid style they are famous for and on top of that, they had the clout to get big names like David Byrne, Perry Farrell, and The Flaming Lips up in the mix. Highlights include "Warning Shots," "Revolution Solution," "Amerimacka," and "Sol Tapado." Pressed on clear swirl vinyl, limited to 500 copies worldwide.

• music label: ESL Music 2004 / 2012

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 04/2012

This is the debut album from French singer-songwriter Soko. Intimate, lo-fi, crazy, sexy, funny, tear-stained, heartbreaking, often all at once, Soko's songs have already touched people around the world, earning her a massive global following. At one mega-gig in Australia, she had 15,000 people singing along with her. Since her teens, Soko has been on a rollercoaster journey. From a stockpile of over 100 songs, she has now finally whittled them down to a selection of 14. Aptly-entitled I Thought I Was An Alien, it's full of love and loss and worry -- the kind of fundamental, life-dictating human feelings, which are so far beyond rational explanation, they really ought to be kept under lock and key. Like one of her absolute heroes, Daniel Johnston, however, Soko has the rare ability to sing openly about those feelings, in a way which is utterly compelling, sometimes devastating, but also, completely uplifting. Like innumerable bedsit troubadours of her generation, Soko started out with just her voice, her acoustic guitar, and GarageBand. After moving to Paris, her early demos were picked up by radio stations in Denmark, Belgium and Australia, making her too much of a new pop thing, without her own consent. In 2007, her music was used in a Stella McCartney show in Paris. Soko played gigs with Daniel Johnston, MIA, Babyshambles, Adam Green, Jeffrey Lewis, Seasick Steve and many others. Feeling under pressure, perhaps, she went from home studio recording to trying to record her songs in a proper studio, working with producers who would hire session musicians to play the other instruments. Soko's acoustic playing, too, has grown up from the punky thrumming of before, often arriving at the complex, fluid picking of the "old '60s folk dudes" she's been listening to, such as Roy Harper, Michael Hurley, Davey Graham, Karen Dalton and Jackson C. Frank. In 2008, Soko moved to Los Angeles. Amassing more recorded versions out there, she soon realized she needed someone to help her sift through it all, and make sense of everything she'd created. In late 2010 she was eventually introduced to Fritz Michaud, who had her instant admiration, having worked on the late Elliott Smith's final album, From A Basement On The Hill, which is one of her favorite albums. Having asserted her control over her music, Soko realized that rules are made to be broken, and allowed others -- close friends, this time -- to add their expertise. When she sings of a rootless existence, always sadly moving on with her suitcase and her guitar, you know that this is her existence -- and it really is. I Thought I Was An Alien finally introduces a truly singular talent, at her point of fruition. Includes a bonus CD version of the album.

• music label: Because Music 2012

label review

It's a super collabo! Honest Jon's really got something special here with Erykah adding some catchy Baduizms over Rocket Juice & The Moon's (aka Damon Albarn of Blur and Gorillaz, Flea of RHCP, and afrobeat legend drummer Tony Allen) brilliant instrumental groove. The result is re-dubbed "Manuela," and it's only available on this 10" so don't miss it! On the flip, Mark Ernestus of Rhythm And Sound gets down on the wicked dub mix. Comes in custom silk-screened sleeves, recommended.

• music label: Honest Jon's 2012

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 04/2012

It's real tough to pigeon hole Nicolas Jaar. On the one hand, he's very capable of producing in the realms of deep house (check his Wolf+Lamb stuff or the reworks Nina Simone and New Order), and on the other, he's able to deliver leftfield electro, downtempo beats and ambient soundscapes with aplomb. Talk about a versatile producer! Anyway, Space Is The Only Noise focuses on the latter style, a 13 track excursions to the heights of introspective headphone music. The album is a perfect balance of moody ambient pieces, and extended beat-driven passages, and a bit of experimental weirdness. When you're in the mood for this kind of thing, it's one of those albums you can just throw on and play all the way through without having to skip any tracks. Allow it seep into your sub-conscious and you will recognize - it's that good! Highlights include "Colomb," "Keep Me There," "Spectres Of The Future" and "Too Many Kids Finding Rain In The Dust." Oh did I mention that this is his full length debut? Recommended.

• music label: Circus Company 2012

reviewed by TKB 04/2012

Vintage electronic sounds from Cameroonian musician Fransis Bebey compiled. Though many know Bebey for his classical guitar compositions and pop songs (which were hits in Africa and French speaking countries), few are aware of his musings with electronic music in the '70s. This compilation from France's Born Bad Records shines light on the era from 1975 to 1982 where Bebey was experimenting with early drum machines, keyboards, organs to totally control his compositions. During this time Bebey embraced the technique of "sound on sound" recording with his new instruments (recording several tracks, sequentially juxtaposed on the same track) and the result has to be heard to be believed. Check out the awesome lo-fi synth groove of "Savannah Georgia" and "Divorce Pygmee," or the cooled out afro vibes of "New Track" and "Fleur Tropicale" for a taste. This album features 2 LPs worth of Bebey rarites making it a true gem of a record for African music lovers and fans of early electronics. Recommended.

• music label: Born Bad Records 2011

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 04/2012

Yet another groovy LP from mysterious musician Clutchy Hopkins. Clutchy's known for his beats, but the material here definitely ventures into jazz territory - the entire album features a nice laidback, cool vibe. Some tracks do contain whispers of hip hop influence, like "Laughing Jockey" or "Nina," but songs like "Drunk Socks" and "Giraffe Crack" sound like they were born in a late night jazz club jam sesh. In all, it's eleven tracks of excellent, mellow grooves that should satisfy beat heads and jazz fans alike.

• music label: Ubiquity 2010

reviewed by Hires 04/2010

Detroit's Tall Black Guy has been killing it on these beats re-work 7"s (see his Fela and D'Angelo release for more proof), and now he sets his sight on Al Green for some supremely soulful results. "Al Greens Dream" kicks it off on the smoothed out tip, first obliging us with the original sample, then showcasing TBG's beat skills (which are ridiculously on point). Next up, the ubiquitous "Love & Happiness" gets chopped and flipped for serious head nod biz. Big up to Brooklyn's BSTRD Boots for keeping the good stuff flowin'. Recommended.

• music label: BSTRD Boots 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 04/2012

12" companion to Cut Chemist recent afro-breaks mix. He's isolated and edited some of the mix's finest moments into full tracks, and as usual, he looks out for the DJs with additional beat versions... four selections in all. I don't really need to sell you on this, do I? Limited edition orange vinyl. Recommended.

• Music Label: A Stable Sound 2010

reviewed by the mgmnt 10/2010

This isn't really a traditional "mash up" album (sorry if you were hoping for another Grey Album), rather, Bullion took snippets of songs from the Beach Boys' classic Pet Sounds and chopped them up with snippets from J. Dilla's catalog to create a new school beats masterpiece (seriously). Check the samples if you don't believe me - I'm partial to "Don't Talk," "You Still Believe In Dee," and "I Just Wasn't Made For These Times," but the whole album is damn solid. Fans of The Beach Boys, Dilla or both definitely need to take a listen to this. 13 tracks, plays at 33. Recommended.

reviewed by Hires 09/2009

Cut Chemist is goin' off! The famed LA tablist/producer is back with the first single off his upcoming album, and it's taking the sound in a totally fresh direction. With "Outro" Chemist is going punk rock with it, teaming up with Deantoni Parks (John Cale, Meshell Ndegeochello, Mars Volta) on those high speed neck-breaking drums, Lonnie Marshall on bass, and Blackbird on raps. The rest of the sounds are delivered via turntable, and as usual, Cut is able flawlessy blur the line between what's live and what's sampled. For a more classic Cut Chemist sound, check the "Outro Dub" that slows the beat down to half speed for tough drum breaks that will certainly wreck the discotek. Also includes the instrumental, scratchapella, and bonus beats so you can get creative in the mix.

• music label: A Stable Sound 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 04/2012

Hot fiyah! Daphni (aka Caribou) remixes Cos-Ber-Zam's obscure 1973 track "Ne Nyo" (recently re-dug by Analog Africa). Caribou's approach is super restrained, laying down fluttery breaks and ungah bass. Wait until the two minute mark and Daphni really lets loose with the synth... makes you want to spit some bad rasta patois. B-side features two Daphni originals and I'm loving the dance-friendly, sample heavy style. Highly recommended.

• music label: Jiaolong 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt

Gil-Scott Heron is a living legend. You might know of him from his revolutionary street poetry of the 70's, his influential spoken word albums, or maybe just heard about the hardships of his life and times in New York City. Anyway you look at it, his words have affected the lives of many, and here he is in the new decade of the new millennium, reaching out to a whole new generation of people with a brand new album. Plenty of artists go to retirement and comeback, but Gil-Scott Heron has really impressed me with I'm New Here. His scuffed and often tired voice tells of the hardships he has dealt with over the many years in a soulful bluesy manner - sounding so experienced, yet fresh over the minimalist modern beats and sound-scapes. Can't really pick and choose tracks here - this is the type of album you have to enjoy as a whole, but if you want a couple standalone highlights check out "New York Is Killing Me," "I'll Take Care Of You," or "Me And The Devil." Powerful stuff. Recommended.

• Music Label: XL Recordings 2010

reviewed by snackmaster 04/2010

Forward bass producer Arkist (whose previous works have graced Apple Pips and If Symptoms Persis labels) teams up with Bristol's Kid Kut (aka Adam Jackson) for a debut on Scuba's esteemed Hotflush imprint. The duo create sophisticated dance cuts informed by deep house, techno and garage. "One Year Later" dives into the deep end of the house/techno spectrum, but with a distinguished sound kit that's fresh and vibrant, while "Vanilla Imitate" fuses garage with catchy tech-house sounds.

• Music Label: Hotflush Recordings 2011

reviewed by Von Bee 08/2011

Whoa, Warp Records and Ed Banger team up for this funky bit of downtempo from none other than Squarepusher. "Cryptic Motion" almost sounds like a Dam-Funk track, with a groovy vintage bass line and some heavily synthesized vocals. Mr. Oizo takes the track in a whole different direction, molding the original elements into a glitchy bit of electro house. Fans of either artist should love this one, recommended.

• Music Label: Ed Banger 2010

reviewed by Hires 2010

Debut release from producer of the moment Jacques Greene on his freshly minted Vase imprint. After two well received EPs on LuckyMe, a 12" on UNO, and a string of high profile remixes (including one for Radiohead), the young Montrealer drops four fresh house x 2-step fusions on the Concealer EP that live up to the hype. The kid has a knack for melding the best elements of house, techno and forward bass, all the while flipping vocals to add a catchy soulful element to the track that certainly sets his stuff apart from the rest. Check what I mean on the brilliant "Arrow" featuring Koreless, or "Clark." "Flatline" leans more toward the dubstep side of things, but with Ango adding that emotive soul edge. Quality through and through on this one. Recommended.

• music label: Vase 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 04/2012

Instrumental companion to Amerigo Gazaway's popular Fela Soul mash-up project. Named one of NPR's top 5 best Bandcamp albums of 2011, Fela Soul blends Fela loops, De La Soul samples, and hip-hop drums. It's really no surprise the instrumentals hold their own weight here, 9 tracks in all.

• music label: Gummy Soul 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 04/2012

Not Not Fun continues to reach out with great success. Peaking Lights 936 is one of the most memorable releases that the label has put out recently. The songs are simple yet compelling, and completely successful at drawing the listener in. The world of Peaking Lights is one of sun drenched beaches and hazy fields of wheat. The vocals of Indra Dunis float along while a drum machine dutifully plods away and Aaron Coyes’ guitar meanders off into overdriven bliss. With song titles like "All The Sun That Shines" and "Marshmellow Yello" it's easy to see what Peaking Lights is aiming for. With dubbed out abandon the duo sets the perfect tone for the warm months to come. Recommended

• music label: Not Not Fun 2011

reviewed by The Voice

Bastard Boots keeps the goodness coming with an entry from Greece's Mishkin (of GAMM / Raw Fusion's Palov and Mishkin). Light one up for the beats version of Linval Thompson's "Free Marijuana" backed with a "Livin Trouble," a party-breaks style track featuring snippets of various party igniters. No brainer really, recommended.

• Music Label BSTRD Boots 2010

reviewed by the mgmnt 06/2010

LA producer/DJ Kid Gusto is tapped for the 15th volume of Brooklyn's BSTRD Boots series and he's coming strapped with that latin heat. Right out the gate he drops a killer version of Afrosound's "Tiro El Blanco," a track that's been popping up on mixes and other cumbia edit records lately, and with good reason - the track is the bomb! Kid Gusto adds some new drums to it for extra bang on the dancefloor. A similar rework treatment is given to "Angola" with fat boom baps added for more of a head nod feel. On the flip "La Zenaida" gets a subtle bump, while "Safari Salvaje" murders with powerful breaks, big horns, and tropical chants galore. Recommended.

• Music Label: BSTRD Boots 2011

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 10/2011

William Bennet has described his Cut Hands project, a geographical rhythmic spectacular, as originating from his desire to inject “Haitian vaudou music” and ritual drumming into a club set he was once doing in Glasgow’s renowned Optimo venue. The record, coming a few years after and divided upon release into two volumes, is itself an exploration, a fusion of electronics and sourced, researched, traditional African forms of percussion (see Volume 1 review for a bit more exposition). The tracks on part two almost act as a calm after the storm, more ambient in parts, more conventional as a whole, still altogether as scintillating and suspenseful as the first though. And while a companion piece through and through, still has its own highlights, the ritual dance readiness of “Impassion”, the tranquility of “Ezili Freda”, the epic final notes of “Rain Washes Over Every Thing”. Again, a must-explore if you’ve been into anything from archival reissues of regional music to compilations of industrial dance hits.

• Music Label: Dirter Promotions 2012

reviewed by A. Tomorrow 04/2012

A rhythmic expedition into territories unknown. Cut Hands is the alias of William Bennet, previously a pioneer in the field of noise (see Whitehouse), Afro Noise is his newest, latest, and arguably most different, accessible, project. The record sees Bennet, a noted scholar on Africa’s regional musics, exploring various types of percussion and rhythm native to areas such as Ghana and the Congo. Arrays of Ghanian instruments, djembe drums, carve out their space in-between grainy synthesizers, bass, and a powerful palette of effects. Comparisons to sorcery, voodoo might be cheap, but do seem worth a mention, as this is most certainly some form of acoustic alchemy and I’m left still not really knowing how to describe it. If my ears themselves were more eloquent maybe, but right now it’s unfamiliarity and awe. Most assuredly a must-hear, especially given recent reissues of Throbbing Gristle, the exploding interest in alternative and industrial synth music, and archival explorations from labels such as Awesome Tapes from Africa, Sofrito, Analog Africa, etc. Track highlights include “Stabbers Conspiracy” for its unrelenting rhythm, “Rain Washes Over Chaff”, for its cinematic tension.

• Music Label: Dirter Promotions 2012

reviewed by A. Tomorrow 04/2102

Brooklyn's BSTRD BOOTS reaches for talent across the pond for the debut release from Colm K. & Freestyle Mellowship. The Irish DJ/producer nices up the dance with a wicked re-work of Delroy Wilson's rocksteady tune "Dancin' Mood," bumping up the drums to a bubbling 105 BPM and changing the title to "Dancing Skulls." On the flip, you get a dubbed out version with 'nuff echo to keep it spaced out. Thick 10" pressing, recommended.

• Music Label BSTRD Boots 2010

reviewed by snackmaster 08/2010

Stuart Howard aka Lapalux has come up with something special for his first release with Cali's finest, Brainfeeder. Having made his name with his cassette-only "Many Faces Out Of Focus" and acclaimed bootlegs and remixes he returns with a seven track EP of such poise and beauty, one listen is enough to know you're onto something special. Lapalux bathes your brain in lush textures, surprising and explosive atmospheres set in unencountered, unearthly spaces, all somehow perfectly set against catchy rolling choruses informed by pop and commercial R&B. On the When You're Gone EP he channels and refines his sound and shapes it into hazy, woozy emotion. Whether working with a singer like Py (on "Moments"), or deconstructing found samples and his own voice, Howard stretches, bends and warps sound to make soul - not plastic posturing but real emotion made of synthetic sound. Recommended.

• music label: Brainfeeder 2012

reviewed by Alpha Pup 02/2012

Heat alert! After killing it on numerous releases for Melting Pot Music, Kansas City producer/trumpeter/singer delivers a bangin' 45 for the Brooklyn-based BSTRD Boots imprint. On "Fela" he flips the ubiquitous afro-beat classic "Water No Get Enemy" into a nasty beat excursion that keeps the vibe of the original in tact (those horns!) while adding more thump and bump in the drums. No brainer right here. Flipside freaks and chops "Mr. Sandman" into a bouncey instrumental hip hop groove Jazzy Jeff would be proud of. Recommended.

• music label: BSTRD Boots 2012

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 03/2012

Ah, the picture comes together. From Stones Throw: "When Madlib launched his Madlib Medicine Show last year, the original idea was simple: twelve releases, one per month, alternating between original works and mixtapes spanning dierent genres. It took a little longer than planned to hit number 12 - so we ordered up a bonus, number 13 - and, since we figured that there might be some new converts to the fold, we decided to package all 13 albums together. We call this collection The Brick. The Madlib Medicine Show Series is a combination of Madlib's new hip-hop productions, remixes, beat tapes, and jazz, as well as mixtapes of funk, soul, Brazilian, psych, jazz and other undefined forms of music from the Beat Konducta's 4-ton stack of vinyl." In summation: you get all 12 Medicine Show CDs plus a bonus 13th CD, individually packaged and shrinkwrapped together into a "brick". Recommended.

• music label: Stones Throw 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 03/2012

Will Sessions are at it again! After garnering props from everyone (including DJ Premier) on those Elmatic instrumentals, and killing it on the funk tip on all those (now sold out) Funk Night 7"s, the five piece band from Detroit is back with "mix takes". What is a mix take you ask? A "mix take" is actually one long continuous funk jam, recorded live and in one take, that goes through all manner of classic hip-hop and funk break tunes. Hear Dilla and Slum Village beats flawlessy morph into the funk breaks they came from, live versions of Nas instrumentals with fresh unheard solos, you get the idea. And if you don't check the video below. Super dope stuff! No tracklist (as it is all a continuous a mix of grooves), but real heads will be able to call all the songs on this piece. Recommended.

• music label: Fat Beats 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 01/2012

Celebrating its 20 year anniversary, Thrill Jockey is reissuing several of its most in-demand titles. The first offering is Tortoise's fourth album, released in 2001 (the other record in this offering is a record from Trans Am). This version is pressed on high quality virgin vinyl, and similar to the original pressing, it is packaged in a heavy duty inner sleeve and an outer silk-screened PVC cover. In addition for the first time, it also comes with an MP3 download coupon. As for the music itself, Standards has aged well. Stylistically, it's a bit scattered, but when you mix indie, Kraut, downtempo beats, jazz... what's not to like? I imagine if the Beasties were more skilled instrumentalists, some Check Your Head instrumentals would sound like this (what, is this guy crazy mentioning Beasties and Tortoise together? Jyes.). Check the gorgeous "Monica" to smell my drift. 10 tracks in all.

• music label: Thrill Jockey 2001

reviewed by the mgmnt 03/2012

New to the world of modern ambient music? Let Kompakt be your guide. Each year, the long running Pop Ambient series collects the best in slow churning soundscapes and mellow moods to set a supremely chill and introspective atmosphere in your headphones and/or sound system. For anyone just getting into the increasingly deep world of leftfield ambient and experimental music, these comps are a godsend. This is the 2012 edition and features a prime selection of cuts from artists like Superpitcher, Morek, Magazine, Wolfgang Voigt, Marsen Jules, Bvdub, Simon Scott and others. Obviously don't get into this looking for heavy beats or grooves - but do go in with an open mind (and maybe a spliff wouldn't hurt) and your ears will be pleasantly rewarded. 10 tracks total with free CD version included.

• music label: Kompakt 2012

reviewed by The Kosmische Beard 02/2012

Standout track from Walls' recent Kompakt full length Coracle. As the Voice put it, their sound is one that would both "empathize and cure a heavy case of Seasonal Affected Disorder". Most of it is both hazy and droney, but "Into Our Midst" is one of the more dance-y track from the album featuring a solid slow house bump, while the Animal Collective style hoots and hollers push it along. I'm feeling the Reprise version that pushes the vibe even deeper with lush synths that really intensifies the atmosphere. Also includes the dreamy house drone of "Idles Way."

• music label: Kompakt

reviewed by The Kosmische Beard

Battles is dropping a four part Glass Drop remix series and is to be released first on limited edition 12" vinyl. This is the second in the series and the most relevant for Lab heads. Yeah, the tracklist had me dripping a bit: Alchemist dropping thematic dark downtempo, Kode9 bringing the future London sound, and most impressively, Shabazz Palaces (aka Digable Planet's Butterfly) laying down both beats and rhymes, mid-nineties style. Unique cover photography for each volume by Lesley Unruh. Recommended.

• music label: Warp 2012

reviewed by the mgmt

more info + purchase

First single from Nina Kravis' full length debut on Rekids and it's a banger! The Berlin-based DJ/producer/vocalist deftly fuses Chicago footwork aesthetics to a minimalist house riddim for explosive results on "Ghetto Kraviz(1)." Definitely some future jack shit right here! "Jealousy(2)" is more of the Rekids sound your used to - big and thumpin' - with some loose spoken word over the top, while "Show Me Your Time(3)" continues to bang the box. Heavy house grooves for the freaks!

• music label: Rekids

reviewed by Von Bee 02/2012

2011 effort from NY-based duo Josh Carter and Sarah Barthel (aka Phantogram). Nightlife came in after their much lauded full length debut Eyelid Movies and continues the outstanding electronic indie pop vibe presented on their previous releases. Some would compare them to a modern dat "HGSOB" (like a pop-ier Portishead?), but regardless of what you want to call it, the bottom line is that this stuff is infectious and will easily garner repeat listens on the headphones. Check "16 Years(1)," "Don't Move(2)," "Turning Into Stone(3)," "Nightlife(4)," and "A Dark Tunnel(5)." Recommended.

• music label: Barsuk

reviewed by Von Bee 01/2012

Debut full length from American indie pop duo Phantogram. Eyelid Movies was originally released back in 2009 and found Sarah Barthel and Josh Carter (aka Phantogram) solidifying their self-proclaimed "street beat" sound into a long player that was generally well received by fans and critics alike. For the unfamiliar, the "street beat" or "psych pop" sound they are famous for is kind of like an updated variation of the "HGSOB" style, wherein tough beats and samples are given a soft emotive touch courtesy of the melodic guitar and airy synth work (and sometimes Sarah's vocals). Check the style on album highlights "Mouthful Of Diamonds," "When I'm Small," "Running From The Cops," "As Far As I Can See," "You Are The Ocean," and "Futuristic Casket." Great stuff for the headphones. Recommended.

• music label: Barsuk

reviewed by Von Bee 01/2012

Debut release from Morgan Zarate (formerly of Spacek) and Acyde as The Shining. You might've already heard some of Morgan Zarate's skills on his wicked Hyperdub release or those remixes on EXIT, but he's switching up the electronics for more sample-based psyche soul with the banging beats of "Hey You(1)." This one has sure-shot written all over it, but you also get the fierce Afro-psych vibes of "Tell Me (I'm Wrong)(2)" on the flip. Excellent sounds all around here, so be on the lookout for these cats! Recommended.

• music label: Young Turks

reviewed by Snackmaster 01/2012