Review:
Artificial Intelligence and their very own Integral Records are to liquid D&B what hydrogen is to the universe - everywhere. Their unique brand of soulful, rolling music has given unforgettable moments to so many, both in terms of their own productions as well as on their label. The Series: Season 2 is the latest, a four-tracker that exemplifies their sound with pure style. 'B.A.D.A' is wispy and emotional; 'Waiting Room' combines a luscious vocal with intricate depth; 'Smoke Screens' is pulsating, wide and full of ambience; 'Boxed In' fills up the range with dream-worthy pads and crisp percussive lines. This EP is an essential for anyone who loves their D&B on the lighter end of the spectrum.
Review:
The evil nature of this release is apparent straight away, its artwork featuring a ghoulish, smiling goblin who's devilish character spreads easily into the tunes. 'Hobgoblin' itself is snarling and pissed off, a ghoulish blend of synth energy and back end force that twists itself over and under, back and forth. 'Pirelli's Elixir' is equally as insane, a good display of sound design acumen that bodes very well for Ceph's future, as does 'Regular Creepy Smile', a minimal roller that lands with pinpoint precision and delicate yet forceful depth. This is three-tracks of top notch stuff from a relative newcomer - grab it now.
Review:
Des McMahon puts most other North American producers to shame with his ability to produce euphoric yet slamming D&B, and it's great to see such talent coming out from across the pond. Back on his regular collaborating partner Viper Recordings, 'Space Candy' is the first of two and accurately hits the nail on the Viper Recordings shaped head with its infectious synth work and ambitious blend of vocal force and low-frequency pushing. 'Cold' is the flip and it makes for a quality B-side that is even more suited for the dancefloor and smacks of previous Viper signing Insideinfo with its pummelling percussive weight and gasping tones. Another good release from Matrix & Futurebound's label.
Review:
Without a doubt one of the best low-key record labels, Soul Deep is back with regular partner-in-crime Furney for a classic piece of funky D&B. Furney's music has a certain roughness to it, that rustiness in the drums and the lack of clarity in the highs, both of which conspire to add even more charm and character to his productions. The title track encapsulates that well, with its soaring sample and warm, padded bass notes. He goes a bit deeper than usual with 'Long Distance Relative' and 'I Can't Take It', subtler sounds at the back and more introspective tones at the fore on these two. A nicely diversified release from a stalwart of the scene.
