Reports
Reports
Chicago Boys - Dance Department
Chicago Boys aims to modernise the old-school Chicago acid sound in the upcoming Dance Department. The group attempts to balance classic Chicago elements with modern production, with praise-worthy riffs and pockets of originality. However, the Chicago Boys struggle to fully commit to a style as they still search for their unique voice within the genre. Overall, the record is a solid effort with potential, particularly for fans of classic acid sounds.
Mumdance - MD003
Mumdance has been pioneering the UK music scene for years, constantly pushing boundaries and exploring experimental territories. With the release of MD Dubs in 2022, Mumdance continued to self-release, creating a sparse and grimy workout that pushed the limits of techno and other base genres. However, with the release of MD003 in 2024, Mumdance surprised fans with a departure from his usual style, creating a record that exudes campy, kitschy, and fun energy. The A-side is a poppy dance music case study, while the B-side ventures into edgier territory, weaving a fantastical and surreal journey. The entire record feels like a deliberate concentration of EDM tropes, turning it into a riotous celebration.
Ellery Cowles - Sonic Control
Synchrophone has given the reissue of Ellery Cowles's Sonic Control, originally released in 1995, new life. The record's timeless and futuristic nature is apparent through its crystal-clear percussion and minimalistic yet creative production. Sonic Control demonstrates how to properly reissue classics for new audiences to enjoy. Pick up Sonic Control now, especially as it's available on limited blue marbled vinyl.
Tiger Stripes - I Heard It Through The Bassline
Tiger Stripes' latest release on Radio Slave's Rekids imprint features two techy house tracks. 'I Heard It Through the Bassline' is a fun, disco-infused track with palpable repetition, while 'Everybody's Doing It' is a more delicate, deeper cut. The tracks showcase Tiger Stripes' versatility but may not stand out in the crowded tech-house scene. The release offers a peak-time party track and a chilled-out cooler, making it suitable for the club and workouts.
Posthuman - Cranker
Posthuman's contributions to the acid genre and underground dance music are staggering. Their latest limited-run record, Cranker, showcases exactly why. The record features the wickedly squelchy 'Acid Cranker' and the housey piano stabs track 'Stab Cranker', incorporating classically twinged vocal chops. This release exemplifies Posthuman's talent for creating feel-good dance music.
Roberto Auser - Data Desire Disorder
Roberto Auser's latest release, Data Desire Disorder, on Dalmata Daniel, showcases a transformation in sound, replicating the crispy analogue sound of old 1980s beat tapes. The EP captures the bold and free-spirited nature of the early 1980s bedroom wave music, providing a nostalgic yet innovative musical journey. The lo-fi, mechanical-inspired music, limited frequencies, and compressed percussion contribute to the EP's authentic retro vibe. Auser's creative approach and self-imposed limitations give the tracks a unique and special quality, offering a glimpse into the innovative ideas of early synthesiser pioneers while maintaining a contemporary twist.
SHXCXCHCXSH - DO
The Swedish duo SHXCXCHCXSH, known for their innovative 'organic techno' style, continues to push new ground with their latest release, DO. Their gradual introduction of industrial-inspired production and glitchy rhythms that add aggression and darkness to their tracks, along with rhythmic vocal experiments, showcases their commitment to pushing new aesthetics in techno. The EP shows promise and hints at the duo's potential for future vocal experiments. SHXCXCHCXSH's innovative approach remains inspiring and intriguing, and fans eagerly await their future releases.
Eva808 - LET'S BE HAVIN U?
Eva808's latest release, LET'S BE HAVIN U? is a rebellious blend of comedic defiance and cutting-edge sound design. The title track features aggressive energy with a haunting sample and intense instrumentation. In contrast to other tracks that delve into sludgier, experimental sounds, this track showcases Eva808's refusal to adhere to traditional norms. The release is a refreshing departure from the ordinary, echoing the rule-breaking ethos of tear-out dubstep pioneers from the past decade.
Pavel Milyakov - Euphoric Visions
The struggle as an electronic music fan is to go beyond EDM and not equate electronic music solely with big dance music. Euphoric Visions by Pavel Milyakov captures bone-chilling loneliness and evokes deep emotions not often heard throughout EDM. The collaboration with Richie Culver stands out, creating a haunting and dramatic ambience. The EP effectively explores the human condition, making it a compelling listen for anyone interested in how electronic music can deeply connect with emotions.
Sleep 300 - Julienne
The New York-based label Kshack has impressed me with its quality art style and diverse sound palette. Kshack's third release, Julienne by Sleep 300, features 3D-focused music and experimentation with minimalism, creating a unique and impactful sound. The tracks showcase playful interaction with space and intricate sound design, making the EP perfect for club play. Overall, "Julienne" is an engaging and head-spinning release that shouldn't be overlooked.