7even Recordings France At Juno Download

Review: After a brief period of inactivity midway through 2011, it's good to see 7even back on fine form again. At the point when dubstep was well and truly exploding in everyone's ears, the French imprint stood as one of the first trustworthy bastions of the techno bass music crossover, with a strong contingent of loyal artists on the roster. "Nocturnality" sees Joaan applying dubstep and garage signifiers to a steady house beat. The key hook is the mid 90s organ synth, here played out with a mournful quality that lets it echo around fellow pads for an altogether deep and engaging track. "Out Of Slang" meanwhile plots a more familiar trajectory for industrial-strength dub styles. The space in the track is palpable, with the punchy bassline taking all the glory while the beat patiently waits its turn to get stuck in. Highly recommended.

Review: Japanese producer Makoto is most known for his D&B output and work with Good Lookin' but that hasn't stopped him venturing outside these realms and foraging in new musical territory. This release on 7even Recordings brings together many aspects of his influence to great success. "Different Rhythm" is all percussive shuffle, weighty bass and shimmying rhythms wich are deeply enticing. "What Do You Want" starts with a flurry of clips and claps and muffled vocal but progresses into a sublime tune full of gorgeous synths and beautiful harmonies. Dreamy.