Review: K7's DJ Kicks compilation series is given a new makeover with their latest juggernaut from London-based electronic deviant, Actress, who gives one of his rare appearances out of the live format and onto the decks. As expected, the techno shape-shifter puts through a diverse mix of 20-plus tracks spanning old-school Chicago house to more contemporary experimental techno and ambient-filtered dance music. This continuous DJ mix includes vintage Detroit techno from Reel By Real, distorted outsider disco from the Shit & Shine crew, Gherkin Jerk's "Red Planet" and a new cut from the man himself, "Bird Matrix". It's safe to say that this mix is comprehensive of the current state of affairs in the techno world: cuts ranging from the distorted house of Breaker 1 2, golden era electronica from Autechre, TTT's Zennor, Germany's STL and even PPU affiliate Moon B! An essential collection of music from 2015, highly recommended, of course!
Review: There's much to admire about Kamaal Williams' contribution to the long running DJ Kicks series, not least the producer, DJ and keyboardist's blend of self-made exclusives (both under his name and his alternative Henry Wu alias) and largely overlooked gems. Highlights in the former category include a stunning live version of "Snitches Brew", the jazzy Latin house of "Projections" (a Henry Wu hook-up with Earl Jeffers) and "Lowrider", a jazz guitar-propelled cut from his collaborative Yusuf Kamaal project. In the latter category, we'd suggest wrapping your ears around Awanto 3's dusty and ultra-deep "Pregnant", the deep jazz-funk bliss of Diggs Duke's "Cause I Love You", the up-tempo dancefloor soul of Peven Everett's "Stuck" and the slow motion wonder that is Steve Spacek's "Hey There".
Review: Washington DC's James Bangura really stands out from the rest with his truly singular take on electronic music that's appeared of late on labels like Incienso, World Building and Holding Hands. His latest comes courtesy of legendary German imprint !K7 Titled 'Harrar', a frantic and hyper aware experiment in off-the-grid post dubstep that will totally flip your mind. Then he goes for something more straightforward in the form 'Witness Dub' an emotive deep house cut that's perfect for the late night.
Review: With a rich musical journey that spans from early electronic experiments with tape decks to their distinctive dub compositions, Tosca's recent album Osam gets re-rubbed & re-dubbed. Enter Mirage the OSAM remixes - named after a quaint café in Vienna that holds a special place in the creative processes of Richard Dorfmeister and Rupert Huber (aka Tosca). Collaborating with familiar remix partners like Brendon Moeller who sends in three distinct versions - next to an Ambient Diary mix by Cay Taylan - a bevy of other remixes take in the reflective sounds of piano crescendos, dubbed-out interludes and ambient explorations. Tosca, too, contribute their own reinterpretation by giving "Shout Sister" its own ambient remake.
Review: Right about now it's time to jump into some truly exciting original bass music as Mamboussa steps forward with a very interesting self-entitled body of work, showcasing a range of vibrant production styles. We take a look at 'Open' first, with its rolling percussive leads and constantly rotating soundscapes. Next, we dive into 'Nen Ability, a funky breakbeat hybrid, smashing together distorted expanses and tight drum selections. Finally, 'Swan' breaks into the picture with is unusual structure, perfect for sending the dance in a different direction. This project also comes complete with four official remixes, as Lil Crack and Akito jump in to the mix with 'Swan', alongside Jaymie Silk's emotional recreation of 'Open' and Jesza's juke-like rethink of 'Nen Ability'.
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