Review: The name of this release - Big Money - is reflected in the colourful and playful artwork. It's the first ever EP from a brand new label, Tin Pan Sound, and we're hoping that this is the beginning of a flourishing new imprint. You can tell from the off both that this might be the case, and that this is a release which doesn't take itself too seriously; part of that nonchalant approach to music that stresses having a good time over chin-stroking analysis and perfect mixdowns. The title track is a rattling jump up stepper with a powerful undergirding of low-frequency pulses and tones, there's a slick little vocal over the top and it all comes together very nicely. The others are equally tough and straight shooting - big ups.
Review: These three are back, using their force to compel you to pull ugly bassfaces and throw your drink with a single that doesn't hold back. Its not the kindest on the ears but then again its not supposed to be, it's a monograph in hard-hitting sonics and dastardly tones. 'Dilated' is undergirded by a booming snare drum and percussive clarity, but the action happens in the steadily melodic but still raucous bassline, a pitched-up monstrosity of dancefloor proportions. The others feature more big sounds, but with emphasis instead on forward movement and serene rapidity - top release.
Review: As if firing out badness galore through their 'Connected' series wasn't quite enough action for a label that's barely been around 6 months, Amplify and Metal Work's Gradient levels up again with the massive 'Foundations' VA that's stacked to the top shelf with some of drum & bass music's finest upstarts and high risers. 15 tracks deep, highlights come in all shapes and sizes including the sensual textures and tones of D-Fuser's 'Sticky Situations', the madcap jazzy springs and splutters of Fanatics' 'Everyday', KL's revved up staccato sizzler 'Plain To See', Metal Work's rather glacial 'Cold As Ice' and Parallel's early D-Minds style 'Capital Crimes'. Killer through and through, 'Foundations' as strong as this are built to last.
