Reports
Reports
Various Artists - Tectonic Sound
Tectonic Recordings, founded by Pinch in Bristol 20 years ago, is a significant player in the dubstep scene, known for its unique sound that diverges from mainstream trends. The label strikes a balance between influences from various genres, including Jamaican roots, world music, and footwork, emphasising playfulness and innovation over self-seriousness. The New compilation, Tectonic Sound (2025), showcases the label's current sound, featuring various artists like Pevrelists and Re:ni, and includes a mix of genres that blend techno and dubstep. Highlights include contributions from rising star Beatrice M and techno duo FJAAK, creating a dynamic collection that maintains Tectonic's innovative spirit with tracks that push boundaries while remaining accessible but stylistically forward-thinking.
Shed - Applications
A special collaboration between a prominent German label, Ilian Tape, and influential producer Shed showcases the intersection of Munich and Berlin's music scenes. The Applications EP encapsulates the Ilian Tape ethos through retro-futurist sounds and analogue techniques. Shed's distinctive style, characterised by gritty drum programming and analogue synthesis, heavily influences the tracklist.
Opening with EMCZ, a high-energy, industrial boom-bap-style track that propels the dance forward, TLSQ contrasts this with an organic 4x4 groove, rich with transforming synth layers that surprise the listener. The closing track, UFO2, is marked by its intense Big Room energy, highlighted by pounding percussion and atmospheric elements. The overall impact of Applications shows how relevant Shed is and may always be.