Review: DJ Crisps is starting to make some handy garage moves after a couple of various artists' appearances and a fine EP on Time Is Now Germany in July. Now they link up with Oldboy who appeared on Burnski's other label Vivid back in 2022. As you should expect these are four hardcore and rudely garage cuts with plenty of swagger, naughty samples and bass-face potential. 'On My Way' is the standout with its shuffling one-two drum punch, distant police sirens and warped basslines underneath a timeless and irresistible female vocal full of soul. A summer scorcher for sure alongside three more very useful weapons.
Review: Without doubt, Mark Williams is one of techno's most underrated producers. Even a cursory look through his back catalogue shows an individualistic, influential sound - especially during the late 90s-early 00s period. Thankfully, Williams is back releasing music, and this EP on Ben Sims' label is a reminder of his talents. "Next 21s", with its dense, rolling groove, jagged chords and diva vocal, is a funk-laden take on loop techno. "The Groove Has Begun" is a more dramatic version of this sound, with muffled vocals fused with soaring strings. "Sometimes" sees Williams integrate dub influences with loop techno - the combination of cavernous sound scapes and a niggling rhythm is nothing short of captivating. Never staying still for too long, Williams drops a swung rhythm on "East Side (dub)" - which provides the backdrop for plucked bass and jazzy keys.