Walk Into The Sea

Boo Williams-Fruits of the Spirit

2012-01-29T14:35:00.000Z

A couple of Boo Williams releases from the mid to late 90s got reissued last year and quite rightly got the recognition they deserve (especially Mortal Trance-great EP!) One record that many would like to see repressed is 'Fruits of the Spirit', a record which fortunately I found in near mint condition in a pile of my girlfriend's records last month. As it's going for silly money on the internet, and with the title track only just been uploaded to youtube, I thought it only right to share a rip of it for you all to enjoy! The B side 'Crying Black Man' is so damn good it hurts! THEY SHOT HIM THROUGH THE NECK!

Boo Williams-Fruits of the Spirit (buy)

Shakarchi & Stranéus-Dodskallar Och Korallrev

2012-01-27T12:30:00.006Z

I mentioned this artist last year showcasing the quite beautiful 'Liseberg' and it's accompanying (and quite near perfect match of music/images) video (I didn't feature the track in my end of year list as the vinyl version came out in 2010). Took me awhile to seek out the full release, which was on the near perfect Studio Barnhus label. Whilst 'Liseberg' may be the highlight, the rest of the EP ain't too bad either. A collection of tracks full of warmth; try not to move to key driven 'Mogadishu' and 'Who Killed Captain Alex', and it's hard to imagine anything except hazy summer afternoons with 'Clinton Hill'. Must be something in the water in Gothenberg at the moment, a new haven for beautiful house music.

Shakarchi & Stranéus-Dodskallar Och Korallrev (buy)

3 Chairs-Spectrum

2012-01-24T11:12:00.000Z

Yet another house move a couple of weeks back resulted in no internet for a while, so it's been all quiet on here. Hope to change that over the coming months and I think I start with a pretty big bang right here!

Back in 1997, some of Detroit's finest, Theo Parrish, Moodymann, Rick Wilhite and Marcellus Pittman got together as the '3 Chairs' and began to cobble together some of the most sought after vinyl-only tracks of detroit house, showcasing elements of what's makes the Motor City the special musical city that it is. Fortunately a couple of years back, many of these tracks were put on to a compilation cd which I share here. It includes many of the original tracks from the beginning such as Theo's wonderful 'When the Morning Comes' and 'Rain for Jimmy' and Rick Wihite's 'Roots of Detroit'. It includes the wonderful downbeat roller 'Transit' from KDJ amongst others over 70 minutes of pure fire. The release quickly came and went and is going for silly money on the internet, which seems to be the norm nowadays. A special collaboration and a very special release.Click below to see what you've not had in your life until now.

3 Chairs-Spectrum (buy)

Juju & Jordash-Unleash the Golem Part 1

2012-01-05T14:02:00.002Z

There was always going to be releases that either passed me by in 2011 or I simply didn't have the time to blurb about or give a release the listen that it deserved. This monster release by Juju & Jordash on Golf Channel was just one of them. I had intended to buy it a some point, but at some point waxing over a tenner on a record wasn't really justified so I forgot all about it. Reading it come up high on esteemed website littlewhiteearbuds.com end of year lists made me aware of it all over again. Inspired to be an imaginery soundtrack to a 1920 German silent film, both tracks highlight for me the power and depth certain electronic music can have, to not only stand as piece of music suitable for the headphones or the dancefloor but also as something which can be used to create a setting, a story, like it has the power to have either a part of history or a story put against it, rather than the other way around.

Juju & Jordash-Unleash the Golem Part 1 (buy)

Soundwaves Project 0.1

2012-01-02T14:59:00.000Z

I am pleased to share the music that was recorded for our Soundwaves launch night from last month. Unfortunately due to a technical hitch, the final 45 mins or so didn't record but you still have more than enough to get your teeth into. Plently of varying styles were showcased on the night! My 'mix' is on there, even though I didn't actually mix on the night. I left that to the professionals playing!

The friendly folks over at littlesouth.com have now put these sets live on their website. Enjoy!

Check em all out here....

Jen

http://community.littlesouth.com/_Jen-LIVE-at-Soundwaves-01/audio/918524/60666.html

Ryan

http://community.littlesouth.com/_Ryan-Kelsey-LIVE-at-Soundwaves-01/audio/918460/60666.html

Rod

http://community.littlesouth.com/_Rod-LIVE-at-Soundwaves-01/audio/918451/60666.html

Sam

http://community.littlesouth.com/_Sam-LIVE-at-Soundwaves-01/audio/918453/60666.html

Frank

http://community.littlesouth.com/_Frank-LIVE-at-Soundwaves-01/audio/918445/60666.html

Walkmusic

http://community.littlesouth.com/_James-LIVE-at-Soundwaves-01/audio/918447/60666.html

Luke

http://community.littlesouth.com/_Luke-LIVE-at-soundwaves-01/audio/918449/60666.html

News on the next one should be coming soon. Keep those eyes and ears peeled.

Tracks of the Year 10-1

2011-12-24T13:00:00.015Z

Top ten below! Try not to hold your excitment in, embrace it, much like the excessive amount of alcohol and food you will (or currently are) going to consume over the next few days. No top album list (well not a detailed one anyway) as time is scarce. Having a family takes up more time than you think, but it's ultimately worth it. Try it, beats speaking to yourself on your laptop. Happy Holidays. Don't drink too much coke.

Click on the track names to listen/preview. cheers!

10. The National-Exile Vilify (buy)

It might have been for a videogame (remember them) but it still tore at the heartstrings effectively enough to ensure The National's most die hard fans had enough to get through 2011 with.

9. Real Estate-Green Aisles (buy)

While 'It's Real' was summery guitar pop at it's finest, 'Green Aisles' was by far the stronger song among a strong collection from Real Estate's latest album. A fine listen.

8. Daniel Bortz-Don't Call (buy)

Cracking EP from Daniel Bortz. All four tracks were belters, 'Don't Call' was my fave and I recently airplayed that fact at Soundwaves.

7. Bon Iver-Holocene (buy)

Took me a while to get into the new Bon Iver album. Might not have had the dynamic and personal touch of the first record, but with tracks as beautiful as 'Holocene', who cares.

6. Chad Van Gaalen-Sara (buy)

Chad Van Gaalen went for a 'rockier' feel to this record. On it's most 'alternative' parts it sounded like the band he has produced for, Women. On others such as 'Sara', it sounded like a heart-wrencher of the highest order. A paen to a happy long lasting relationship.

5. Maximillion Dunbar-Piano & Dream World (buy)

Quite simply stunning. Sends you into another world, possibly a dream one and definitely some kind of utopia.

4. The Antlers-Putting the Dog to Sleep (buy)

Majestic soul throwback from the best album of this year (and probably for about 5 years).

3. Genius of Time-Houston, We Have a Problem (buy)

Simplicity was all that was required for this, my tune of the summer. Rolling bass over a simple enough beat resulted in me absolutely caining my vinyl copy and playing it out wherever I played.

2. Low-Witches (buy)

"You gonna wish you were Al Green"

1. The Antlers-Corsicana (buy)

We all have often wrong intepretations of lyrics. However it's often our personal touch to a track and it's words which makes it so special to us. 'Corsicana' to me is about a doomed relationship which continues to persist due to the fact that the thought of the end is too much to bear. "We should shut that door we both left opened now". It might not be about this, but it is to me. Best piece of music I've heard in a long time, and like I said in my first blog about top tracks of the year; I listen to a lot.

Tracks of the Year 30-11

2011-12-23T21:23:00.000Z

More tracks, little time to reel em off. Enjoy. Once again, click on the track name to listen\preview.

30. Psychologist-Comes in Waves (buy)

Whilst James Blake hit the headlines and the critics, a small undercurrent of similar artists treaded a similar artistic path. Psychologist released various tracks, but hit a sombre note with 'Comes in Waves' and a video featuring a man going through pregnancy.

29. Daphni-Ye Ye (buy)

Probably 'bangoh' of the year (as certain people would put it) from a very unlikely source. Relentless stuff from Dan Snaith aka Caribou.

28. Motor City Drum Ensemble-L.O.V.E.\Basement L.O.V.E.(buy)

MCDE's DJ Kicks was one of the mixes of the year, wearing his influences on his sleeve and showing him digging deep into his crate. L.O.V.E. was his best tune since the Raw hits. The basement dub featured on the vinyl release was a beauty too that I could not leave out.

27. The Field-Then It's White (buy)

Return to form is not the way I'd explain enjoying the latest The Field album. I just forgot all about listening to the last one. This is such a lovely listen.

26. Yuck-Get Away (buy)

Ever after hearing their EP 'Rubber' I was looking forward to any full length Yuck would throw up (excuse the awlful pun). Their self-titled release was an assured listen, full of 3 or 4 minute scuzzy pop tracks that Sebadoh would be proud of. Opener 'Get Away' had this nailed down to a tee.

25. Love Unlimited Vibes 3-A1 (buy)

Mysterious re-edits are about as original as a club night advising to purchase tickets in advance as 'this will sell out'. However Love Unlimited series threw up some belters, including this SBTRKT edit. The B side even gave us a superb Grace Jones cover to boot.

24. David Bazan-Don't Change (buy)

Another Bazan album dropped and I knew what to expect. Full of the harmony and pain that it often seems only David can deliver. Don't Change really delivered a cracking storyline of a man focused on changing his life for the better, but unable to deliver the promise to himself, and asking the question is change always better?

23. Session Victim-Good Intentions (buy)

An anthem for an entire weekend in mid-Wales in July. Session Victim have bubbled under the surface before but with 'Good Intentions' released on their vinyl only label Retreat, they have begun their ascent to heady festival heights.

22. Beach Fossils-What A Pleasure (buy)

Captured Tracks is a label that can do no wrong at the moment. Whilst one may argue that the majority of the sounds is limiting, it makes up for in quality. Beach Fossils followed the same shoegazy, 80s lite-pop path with their 'What a Pleasure' EP.

21. Larry Tiger-Eagle (buy)

When edits are good. Larry Tiger's edit of Clyde Brown's 'Your wish is my command' was a high point of their RA podcast at the end of last year and it quickly secured a release at the start of 2011. About 1% of edits are good, and this is it.

20. Other Lives-Tamer Animals (buy)

Sounding like Midlake if they had not gone all 1960s British Folk, The Other Lives' track 'Tamer Animals' talked fondly but wearily of the world against the backdrop of shimmer of soaring piano notes.

19. The Tortoise-Last Night (Genius of Time Remix) (buy)

Two of the best new house artists of 2011 combined to great affect here. The subtle remix from Genius of Time is a gem and thanks to a juno fuck up I have two copies!

18. Move D-Your Personal Healer (buy)

David Moufang continued his ascent this year with consistently great releases. Uzuri released some great stuff in 2011(such as the Pittsburgh Authority EP) and 'Your Personal Healer' with it's Hydraulic Guitar by Juju and shimmering keys by the man himself was it's standout.

17. The Drums-Days (buy)

Another killer doom-pop track by the Drums. New album was full of them, some with extra added whining.

16. Mark E-Call Me (buy)

Mark E's launch into original productions away from edits interested many, however 'Call Me' with it's Diana sample kindly advising that she is available whenever stole the limelight away from 'Stone Breaker'. This was a bit of a shame as it contained some really good tracks.

15. Pure X-Voices (buy)

Lo-fi sounds of 1990s may hold a heavy burden on Pure X but that doesn't mean the music isn't good. 'Voices' is lo-fi, scuzzy and warm at heart.

14. Junior Boys-You'll Improve Me (buy)

Nevermind the Caribou remix or the proposed KDJ re-edit, the original Junior Boys's 'You'll Improve Me' was a highlight of their 4th long player, one which contained many (especially the mighty Banana Ripple). Electronic pop music at it's strongest.

13. Four Tet-Pyramid (buy)

Kieran Hebden's Fabric mix got a lot of people talking and typing (including me) and included some great new music as well as a shit load of old. Pyramid is his strongest dancefloor orientated track to date.

12. Low-Nothing But Heart (buy)

When I saw Low live earlier this year, they opened with this. The crunchy opening guitar almost made my ears bleed. The beauty that followed it is capable of healing any wound.

11. Craft Spells-The Fog Rose High (buy)

More Captured Tracks pop music, showcasing early New Order-Power Corruption and Lies era influences on it's sleeve. Even the artwork is familiar. Close your eyes and it's 1984.

Tracks of the Year 50-31

2011-12-20T18:07:00.001Z

In 2011, I've probably listened to more music than in any other of my life. I seem to have it on all the time. I don't really watch TV any more, other than for the odd footy match, film or interesting documentary. So it took a while to whittle it down. I probably don't have the time to do a top 50, but I could have done a top 100 with plently to spare. I'm sure there's releases from the start of the year that my brain can no longer remember. That's not to mention the plethora of music from before Jan 1 2011 than I've enjoyed. Hope you enjoy the following...

(I've not included youtube/soundcloud as it would make the pages unbearably slow. Click on the track for a preview/video)

50. Omar S-Here's Your Trance, Now Dance (buy)

A quite magical ten minute epic from Omar S which set the scene for him in 2011, culminating in a full length entitled 'It Can Be Done, But Only I Can Do It' (humble yeah), showcasing some of his best recent releases (including this) and some excellent new tracks.

49. Intruder-Amame (Long Ass Mix) (buy)

Murk Records of the early 90s like Liberty City's 'Some Lovin' and 'That's What I Got' certainly found their place on the dancefloor in 2011, so smelling the renewed interest labelowners Ralph Falcon and Oscar Gaten re-emerged under an old name of 'Intruder' and delivered a stunning peak time 303 bomb.

48. The Dead Leaves-Harm (buy)

No new album for New York's finest The National this year, however if you wanted a fix turning to Australians' The Dead Leaves 'Harm' might have done the trick. Plagiaristic? Yes. As Good? Pretty much.

47. The Drums-I Need A Doctor (buy)

The Drums quick fire release in 2011 may have had much of the same qualities from their 1st album, it did also highlight a much darker side sprayed all over the record, none more so than on 'I Need A Doctor'.

46. The Tortoise-Gonna Be (buy)

In 2011, Melbourne pushed itself forward as a major player in modern deep house/disco sounds. The Tortoise party house track 'Gonna Be' was one of many high points from the city which also included respected artists such as Tornado Wallace (Lewie Day) and Mic Newman (Fantastic Man). Another top notch release from 3rd Strike Records out of London.

45. Girls-Vomit (buy)

After the excellent ep 'Broken Dreams Club' in 2010, many were excited to hear what Girls would deliver in 2011. Whilst the album didn't hit the heights for myself personally, lead track 'Vomit' wasa clear standout with a slow quiet build up leading to a frenzied epic guitar solo.

44. Deep Space Orchestra-Riding in My Imaginery Jeep (buy)

DSO really emerged in 2011, with a successive of quality releases together with their own quality label Use of Weapons. 'Riding in My Imaginery Jeep' is tip top spaced out house music, with a nod to Germans Move D and Soulphiction.

43. Ron Basejam-Distant Voices (Hot Coins Remix) (buy)

Hot Coins aka Red Rack 'Em delivered a stunning remix here of Crazy P's Ron Basejam's Distant Voices. Finally pressed onto to vinyl this month, it's steady bass reminds me of the early hours of a balearic holiday.

42. Zodiac Free Arts Club-Floating World (buy)

Greek producer Argy moved away from his usual house output by creating Zodiac Free Arts Club, inspired by atmospheric krautrock of the 60s and 70s. Title track 'Floating World' hopes captures the psychdelic underground sound, and was a lovely journey into a largely forgotten era.

41. Owen-I Believe (buy)

Much of my musical taste now veers away from what Owen continues to release. However, the lush guitars and honest lyrics still turn my head, especially on 'I Believe'.

40. We Are Trees-I Don't Believe in Love (buy)

Sounding like Grizzly Bear without the really boring bits, We Are Trees completed their Girlfriend/Boyfriend EP set in 2011, with the bitter sounding 'I Don't Believe in Love' being a highlight. Lyrics like "I starts with a kiss, then ends with a bitch" displays good old fashioned indie-boy loser resentment.

39. Levon Vincent-No Regrets (buy)

Levon Vincent returned in 2011 with a couple of big releases and heavy, heavy tracks. I could have included all of his tracks of 2011 in my top 50 quite easily to be honest, but it was 'No Regrets' that was my personal fave.

38. Dive-Sometime (buy)

Straight out of the stables of Captured Tracks came member of Beach Fossils side project 'Dive'. No real surprises, just a shoegaze-harmony soaked number full of quality.

37. Wbeeza-Laying Here (buy)

House sound of London alert! Or some bullshit. Whatever. Quality house music from Wbeeza. Blogged about earlier in the year. Read all about it. The end.

36. Dorisburg-Emotion (buy)

Top notch German deep house that I couldn't get enough off. From the excellent 'Family Horror' double LP from earlier this year. Recommended.

35. Zoo Kid-Out Getting Ribs (buy)

Mate of mine told me about this kid a while back, and hasn't shut up about him since. Pitchfork have gone on and on about this song (and the video) for a while. Don't bother with that shit, just give it a keen listen.

34. No Regular Play-Takin' U Back (buy)

Wolf & Lamb & Soul Clap were at one point beginning to take over the house world. Of course that didn't happen. But from one of the best mixes of the year, their combined DJ kicks, brought us this great tune from regular cohorts No Regular Play. Sexy music apparently.

33. Maximillion Dunbar-Polo (buy)

Lifted from probably the EP of the year for me, balearic, slowed down grown up house music. Or just some good sounds playing off a bit of wax.

32. Pygmy Lush-January Song (buy)

Low key indie-folk from Pygmy Lush. Underground as hell apparently. But with the internet is anything nowadays? Hints of the best of Port O Brien and Fleet Foxes.

31. Moomin-You (buy)

More German deep house again. There's just so much of it! Moomin's album was a beauty with so many highlights. The hypnotic loop and beat of 'You' ensured it ended the year as very high on my playlist counter.

Soundwaves Project 0.1

2011-12-05T21:52:00.000Z

After my move down to the quieter life in Cornwall, one could presume that I would have maybe retired from getting behind new nights without the ready made demand that was served up in my former home of Manchester. Well, that hasn't happened. Inspired by local DJ and committed resident Jennifer Johnson, I am proud to present and be part of the Soundwaves Project. Our Launch night is this Saturday 10th December in the beautiful setting of the Driftwood Spars Hotel in St. Agnes. The night is held in aid of local community based charity Surfers Against Sewage (SAS). Audio support will come from Cornwall-based Allen & Heath, the world's most renowed and respected name in audio mixing desks. Featuring an array of DJ talent and styles, based both locallly and from further afield, Soundwaves aims to provide a night of eclectic vibes and good times for a great cause.

All proceeds will go to SAS, with a suggested donation of £3 on the door.

DJ's will include: -

Catrina D'Olive
Rodney Peasley
Sam Farnell
James Walker
Luke Walker
Frank Gane
Ryan Kelsey
Jennifer Johnson

Much hard work has gone to into this, especially by a certain Miss Johnson and I just know it will be a blinder. So put the festive preparations on hold and get down to the Driftwood in St Agnes for a truly special night!

Mixes:

http://community.littlesouth.com/_Jennifer-Johnson-Littlesouth-Eclectic-Dance-DJ-0132011/audio/881244/60666.html?widgetId=157413

http://soundcloud.com/renster_jen

http://soundcloud.com/jwalk

http://testpressing.org/2011/11/164-walk-music-the-low-life-elite/

Yvette Michele-Everyday and Everynight (WalkMusic Edit)

2011-11-30T17:35:00.000Z

I'm proud to present another beautiful re-edit from West Didsbury's own Walkmusic. Unsurprisingly it's a track that may have passed you by in the mid 90s upon it's release, however it's re-imagined into a lovely mid-tempo groove here. Once again this in Wav. file format so it's high on quality as well as content. Grab it below.

Everyday & Everynight // Yvette Michele (1995) // WalkMusic Edit by JWalk

Walkmusic also popped up with a podcast entitled 'The Low Life Elite' for the acclaimed balearic beats and lifestyle site testpressing.org. Expect more imaginative arrangement and beautiful eclectic vibes. Give it a listen and visit the site here.

Walkmusic will also be heading down for the first Soundwaves Project in a couple of weeks in St Agnes in Cornwall. More info soon!!!

Top Ten Tracks November

2011-11-28T19:44:00.006Z

As the winter tries to draw in and the festive bullshit begins in earnest, here's my top ten tracks for November. Time pending, I hope to begin compiling my top lists for 2011 very soon, so therefore there won't be a top ten for December on the blog, even though there will be one in my head.

1. Nick Holder-Feelin' Sad (buy)

House of the highest order. Getting repressed apparently.

2. Norma Jean Bell-Love's Got It's Hook In Me (buy)

Late 90s, Kenny Dixon Jr. jazzy house vehicle. Ace.

3. Iron Curtis-Goma (buy)

The epitome of the disco-infused deep house sounds of 2011, this time on Kolour.

4. Shoebox-Falling in the Right Place (buy)

Mystery 4 track EP recently dropped that I just love to bits, with 'Falling in the Right Place' as my highlight.

5. System Status-Downtime (buy)

System Status - Downtime by daverendle
Soothing disco beats on Untracked from last year.

6. L J Reynolds-Trust in Me (buy)

Modern Soul beaut from the year I was born.

7. Damien Jurado-Nothing is the News (pre-order-free download from official site)

New Jurado once again (this is never a bad thing) and it's a lovely taster of what's to come. A full band dynamic is what's in store for his latest release.

8. Other Lives-Tamer Animals (buy)

I missed the boat for most of this year with Other Lives. Good recommendation from the boys at Folly of Youth and after a few listens I was sold. Reminds me of the best of Midlake.

9. Bjork-I Miss You (buy)

I now reside in a house with every Bjork record imaginable. Revisted Post recently and forgot all about 'I Miss You'. Just wonderful.

10. Crooked Fingers-Sad Love (buy)

Sad, sad music about the demise of a relationship from Eric Bachmann of Archers of Loaf fame. Lyrics are just beautiful...

"What's meant to be has fallen through
Is running through your veins
An evil kind of bloodless pain
Is creeping through the cracks that swell
To swallow you up into Hell
To shatter all that you believed
And let your lonesome heart be free"

Oracy-Rewound

2011-11-21T15:32:00.000Z

Over the last few years German label Mojuba have brought us some of the deepest house sounds (mainly before the 'deep house' penny dropped) from a wide range of respected artists, including Sven Weisemann, Nick Sole and Stereociti. I only really cottoned onto the label earlier this year and have done some digging around and found some seriously good house music. A standout highlight is this 2008 release by Oracy.

The A side and title track 'Rewound' is deep Detroit techno at its finest with minimal shuffle throughout before a energetic synth workout attempts to show it's worth to the dancefloor. On the flip we have 'Hold On', dancefloor deepness of the highest order. It's steady bassline and repetive male vocal gives the track a hynoptic like quality; if you're lucky to hear it out anyime soon, I very much doubt you'll leave the dancefloor.Excellent stuff.

Oracy-Rewound (buy)

Mano Le Tough-In My Arms

2011-11-08T21:25:00.000Z

Been getting into alot of stuff out of Future Times and the like recenty. Most 4/4 has been not doing it for me of late to be honest. However I'm loving the dreamy and atmospheric sound of these kinds of releases which have so much more going on than your standard house/techno of late and all at the same time, still worthy of any dancefloor I want to be on.

Prins Thomas's label Internasjonal hasn't let us down either in 2011. Already we've been treated to a stunning Mark E remix of DJ Ageishi & Ackin's 'Rain Parade' and this week drops Discodrome's 'Build A House' featuring remixes from Prins Thomas and Tensnake.

Arguably the label's finest release of 2011 has come in the shape of Irishman Mano Le Tough's 'In My Arms' 12". The title track is a sombre, reflective but strangely upbeat piece of beautiful electronic music.The B-sides aren't bad either, 'Dropping Bombs' is a electronic house chugger with swirls of other worldy shit going down. On the flip we have ten minute epic 'Those Lights Are Lives', which like the whole EP has a hynoptic like quality to it, with the capacity to take you away from the grey skies for a short but worthwhile interlude.

Mano Le Tough-In My Arms (buy)

Moomin-The Story About You

2011-11-04T18:55:00.001Z

I'm a sucker for slightly understated deep house music. So it's no surprise that I've enjoyed several of German Moomin's releases of late. It's also no surprise that his melodic, warm deep house sounds find themselves on Smallville for the release of his debut album 'The Story About You'.

I got told recently by an artist (they will remain nameless) that the record labels press officers completely made up the press blurb about one of his 12" releases and he had no idea what they were on about it (it involved stars/beaches/heaven etc etc etc). It seems that this might have happened again with this release. Whilst I understand and appreciate the 'magic' of house music, sentences such as "Real House Music is only possible within a soulful surrounding" make me want to find a bucket. Maybe I'm just a cynical old bastard, but I think words (ironically like this) often don't do the music justice, and when attempting to get the message across, you can be left with sentences representing what the writer thinks sound good or relevant.Try to stick to the music, and just read my blog in the future!

Anyway, this album is highly recommended. It contains the majestic 'Watermelon' which was on his 'Spare Time' EP from earlier this year. It might even suprass Stereociti's effort in deep house artist album of the year, and that would be quite some feat.

Moomin-The Story About You (buy)

Top Ten Tracks October

2011-10-31T10:00:00.002Z

Bit slow on the bloggin' of late. Relocating 300 plus miles plus becoming redundant from my job takes your time up. Still been hot on music though as always and when I'm more settled in to my new home by the coast I'll hope to blog more frequently in the future. Anyway. Music.

1. Marcellus Pittman-There's Somebody Out There (buy)

Nightmarish acid stormer from Marcellus Pittman. Just in time for Halloween.

2. The Tortoise-Last Night (Genius of Time Remix) (buy)

Two of my favourite new artists combined to great effect here, with Genius of Time subtle deep remix of the Tortoise's 'Last Night', getting me up every time.

3. St. Germain- Easy to Remember (buy)

Loved this album since what seems like the beginning of time and every now then I just get right back into it. A tune of it got dropped at my leaving bash at Folk in West Didsbury. Me and a mate danced to it (theres no dancefloor), shame I was too gone to remember what the actual track was! Timeless.

4. Pal Joey-Partytime (buy)

Classic loopy house that was the beginning and the highpoint from a recent Beats in Space mix by the Junior Boys.

5. Deymare-Your Love (buy)
your love by deymare

Bang on house tune from the excellent Boe Recordings.

6. Roots Panorama-Threee (Ripperton Mix) (buy)

Deetron and Ripperton's joint venture hit a high point with this beautiful chugging deep house track mixed by Ripperton himself.

7. Mark McGuire-Brain Storm (For Erin) (buy)

Emeralds member Mark McGuire has been releasing under many guises for a while, and on last year's full length release 'Living With Yourself', included the wonderful fuzzy and warm 'Brain Storm (For Erin)'. Thanks to simply good music blog for the heads up!

8. Goody Goody-It Looks Like Love (buy)

Disco of the highest order from Goody Goody which was the highlight of a bit of a shit night music wise during the Thom Yorke takeover of the Boiler Room. Unfortunately this is near impossible to get on vinyl unless you have deep pockets or a very sympathetic bank manager.

9. Low-Shame (buy)

Low's seminal second album 'Long Division' got repressed recently, which has sent many Low nerds (like me) into raptures. This includes their wonderfully sombre bleak mid 90s tune 'Shame'. Rumour has it their first album 'I Could Live in Hope' is getting repressed too!

10. Smashing Pumpkins-Rocket (buy)

Heard this on 6 music the other day, what a tune, what an album, was my fave throughout high school. Im ashamed that I've not listened to this album for years.

Tiger & Woods-Through the Green

2011-10-11T22:02:00.002+01:00

Over what seems like period of forever, thousands of tracks and hundreds of labels have appeared on the scene offering endless amounts of edits of all kinds of 70s, 80s, 90s tunes with pretty mixed results. When the mysterious Tiger & Woods appeared, you couldn't be really criticised for being skeptical of more edit shit. However, the quality and subtle way their edits worked; using little snippets of tunes, layering beats and heavy on lots of perfectly executed repetition left the duo 'alone on the green', ahead of the pack, good quality edits with a smile.

After several white label releases an album was unsurprisingly put together, primed for release on Gerd Janson's label Running Back. I featured the Caddy Shag EP at the back end of last year and have picked a few of the releases up on wax from the even more mysterious Pop & Eye, G & W and Tiger & Woods out on their own under the moniker's 'Larry Tiger' & 'David Woods'.

The album features the majority of the white label releases, the recently repressed 'Gin Nation' (also on Running Back-together with the B-sides) and a couple of new beauties 'Curb My Heart' and 'Don't Hesitate' featuring vocalist 'Em. Pick it up!

Tiger & Woods-Through the Green (buy)

Four Tet-Fabriclive 59

2011-10-05T20:53:00.003+01:00

This mix has been everywhere for the last couple of weeks. Wasn't going to post about it, but whilst at a friends the other night it started a party all by itself as its that's high in quality and thought why the hell not. The concept, arrangement and ethos behind Kieran Hebden's mix was I thought a excellent forward thinking idea making it stand out from the plethora of unimaginative by the numbers mixes that flood the internet nowadays. He wanted it to be representative of his experiences of going to and djing in Fabric. I sort of got that vibe when I first heard 'Saturday Night, Sunday Morning' by the Unabombers years ago documenting the experience of former Manchester institution 'Electric Chair'. You really got a sense of what the club night was all about, the vibe, atmosphere, and what the night (admittedly it was theirs) meant to them.

This mix is littered with tracks you reflect on with a smile or really really want to investigate further. I remember listening to Four Tet's fabric podcast a couple of years back and he featured 'First Born' by Crazy Bald Heads then. I remember going on to a mate about it at the time (a self confessed garage/2 step nut), and it's was difficult to fnd anything about it (had about 25 views on youtube). Thought it was destined to be forgotten about but I was wrong. Here it makes two apperances, once in it's original form and also a Four Tet remix.

Other standouts include KMA' s classic mid 1990s garage monster 'Cape Fear', recent deep house and techno from STL and WK7, and Burial's more dancefloor driven 'Street Halo'.

This mix was always going to include original music from Four Tet and 'Pyramid' slips in comfortably to the classic, rare and vintage tones of the mix. Pyramid and the more downbeat closer 'Locked' came out on vinyl last month on his own Text imprint but blink and you would have missed em. Fortunately my girlfriend was on the money and got a order in early with Piccadilly so I sort of have access to a copy.

With Wolf and Lamb, Dixon, Motor City Drum Ensemble and now Four Tet, we have been spoilt with some excellent mix CD's this year. The format ain't dead yet!

Four Tet-Fabriclive 59 (buy)

Top Ten Tracks September

2011-09-28T21:37:00.006+01:00

Another monthly dose of random tracks for September. With this 'indian summer' we are experiencing over the last few days it would have been easy to have put the Doors track in of the same name, but this is a serious blog don't you know...

1. Mark E-Call Me (buy)

This track has been knocking about for a while, most notably on a Beats in Space Podcast from last year, but has only just secured a full release. With a trademark vocal sample (Diana Ross I think) and a steady buildup, it's impeccably Mark E at his finest.

2. DJ Nature-Destiny Reprise (buy)

Golf Channel seems to get more props with each release they have put out in 2011, featuring heavyweight releases recently from Juju & Jordash, Justin Van Der Volgen and DJ Nature. However it's this beauty of a repress by the latter that did it for me and it's a heavy deep disco-house workout from the former Wild Bunch don.

3. Shakarchi & Straneus-Liseberg (buy)

Glorious uplifting track out of Barnhus Records in Germany. Brings a smile to my face every time I hear it and every time I see the video.

4. First Touch-It's Yours (2011 Mix)

When I first heard this, I instantly thought of 'First Love', a 1980s boogie act with underground gems such as 'Can I Be With You Tonight' and 'Give Me Your Love'. However, this is actually two German guys in the here and now whilst staying true to the 1980s boogie sound. Excellent.

5. Ian Wilson-Four in the Morning (GoodKing Edit) (buy)

This was on the Rock Your Soul Compilation that I featured a few months back. With so much quality all cross the release, it was easy to miss a trick and I did with this until I gave it a spin a few weeks back. Glorious blue-eyed soul of the highest order.

6. Master C & J-Face It (buy)

Classic Chicago release which I found recently on a crackly charity shop 'Best of House 87' special deeply hidden in my still far-to-small vinyl collection. Also featured on Mike Huckaby's highly recommended Resident Advisor podcast this week.

7. The Drums-Days (buy)

The Drums "Days" from Mikol Vega on Vimeo.

The new The Drums album has come around quickly since last year's self titled album. Shades darker than the last album, tugging on the heartstrings in more complex ways, none more so than on 'Days'.

8. Blue Boy-So Catch Him (buy)

Whilst discussing influences for their new album, The Drums pointed to Reading's Blueboy and Bristol's Sarah Records, an independent label in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Jonny Pierce's open lyrics are certainly present in Keith Girdler's words, who sadly passed away from cancer several years ago.

9. Glaxo Babies-This is Your Life (buy)

Excellent late 1970s Bristol post-punk from the Glaxo Babies. Quite possibly includes some of the best lyrics ever... "This is your life, crying on the subway, lying to your wife".

10. Girls-Heartbreaker (buy)

Yeah it ain't from their much lauded new album but it's the perfect guitar track to wave goodbye to another lonely summer to. Bring on the snow.

The Beach Boys-Til I Die (WalkMusic Edit)

2011-09-23T12:13:00.000+01:00

Check out this lovingly made re-edit of a forgotten Beach Boys gem 'Til' I Die' by West Didsbury's own WalkMusic. Free download and it's a wav file so you can play it LOUD and it doesnt sound shit like most digital music nowadays...

'Til I Die // The Beach Boys (1971) // WalkMusic Edit by JWalk

Check out the original here.

Ball Street

2011-09-19T22:46:00.000+01:00

Ball Street Pilot from Nick Bowe on Vimeo.

From the talented and good looking knob who brought you 'The Institute of Unlimited Funds', check out the world premiere of Nick Bowe's 'Ball Street'.

Underground Belgian Wave Volume 1

2011-09-18T13:41:00.000+01:00

On the blog of late, I've mainly just posted brand new music and only occasionally flirted with that past on my top ten monthly blurbs. I've certainly changed tack today.

Certain kinds of music which may have once been lost, possibly in a dusty loft or a cluttered basement, now is getting the kinds of exposure that the artists thought impossible. Last year a new Belgian label, Walhella Records out of Antwerp decided to re-release lots of 80s Belgian New Wave music only previously available on cassette (remember them). Why Belgians in the 1980s had an affinity with New Wave, EBM and minimal synths is beyond me, but what we are left with is twelve obscure DIY gems.

While not all of the compilation is my taste, it's ability to capture a time of a small independent scene away from the larger countries/cities is refreshing, and just serves to highlight theres usually shit going down, wherever, the majority of the time. A second volume has also been released and if this is anything to go by, it's worth investigating further.

Underground Belgian Wave-Volume 1 (buy)

Live at Robert Johnson 8 (By Dixon)

2011-09-15T19:45:00.001+01:00

Earlier in the year whilst posting about a DJ Kicks release, I questioned the necessity of mix CDs in today's climate. As long as you have a internet conncetion, you essentially have unparalleled access to thousands of mixes at your fingertips, whether they are a podcast recorded for a website, a recorded live mix, a mix put up by the artist themselves or a rip of an actual mix CD release.

My argument was that despite all of this, you couldnt beat a good mix, wherever it is found. However, it is still with a tinge of sadness that this mix Live at Robert Johnson by Dixon will be the last for the German DJ and record label owner and also last of the series which has featured acclaimed mixes by Arto Mwambe, Prins Thomas and Thomas Hammann & Gerd Janson.

In 2007 at the height of the popularity of the Get Physical sound, Dixon was chosen to submit a mix as part of their Body Language series. What we were left with was quite possibly the mix of that year which had the unique ability to remain listenable long after it's release, even featuring tracks which had even at the time probably been overplayed.

Whilst the Body Language Mix and his Temporary Secretary mix from 2009 focused on layers of beats (and on the latter several tracks) whilst matching the tempo seamlessly, this mix starts off as a rather ambient affair. To be honest, there is little or no beats to be had in the first 30 minutes or so. Instead the mix begins with sparse drone soundscapes until we reach the third track, 'He Said', a low-key vocal number from Dominique, which was a highlight of the Dial ten year anniversary compliation CD of last year.

Dixon continues to build momentum, and once the drums drop from Agoria's 'One Hour', you just know Dixon has got the best yet to come. That's what I have enjoyed about his previous mix CDs. There is no need to overload the listener with the more high-profile tracks straight away, its marathon, not a sprint after al. Subtle, low key beats continue (all underpinned by a variety of understated vocals) where we find ourselves in the midst of his new edit of Mark E's 'Call Me' which soft feel leads pefectly into the more techier harsher Roman Flugel track.

What I enjoyed about the mix is that at this point it could quite easily for the last part, turned into a mix by numbers with more dancefloor friendly tracks being introduced. However Dixon slows it down once again before throwing Ame's killer mix and his edit of Osunlade's 'Envision' which represents the 'peak' of the journey before slowing down once again to close with a favourite of his recent DJ sets, Todd Terje's 'Snooze for Love'.

Whilst this may be last Dixon mix on CD, his original work and dedication to the art of a mix certainly won't disappear. Unlike many online mixes this mix is designed for the long haul, to be enjoyed over time. Without question, a fitting send off to an excellent series.

Live at Robert Johnson (By Dixon) (buy)

Wbeeza-Bagwag EP

2011-09-09T21:28:00.004+01:00

"THIS IS THE HOUSE SOUND OF LONDON"

Since his first EP dropped in 2008, Peckham's Wbeeza's releases have been bubbling along rather nicely. 'Deep house' as we know it today seemed to co-inside with this young man's emergence. Despite this connection, Wbeeza seems to do things his own way. He first came to my attention (and to many others) for his New Skank EP in 2009 and the bouncy loop of 'He So Crazy'. Being on Third Ear, it's clear that this man has love for the Detriot house sound and artists who have appeared on the label. This culminated in a visit Stateside in preparation for his album 'Void' in 2010.

His first 12" release of 2011, 'Bagwag EP' is layered in fantastic quality and refreshing variety in equal measure. The opener 'One Solution' hits like a mule from the first beat and the track slowly builds towards some kind of grand statement that entices you in ala Theo Parrish and Carl Craig. The real gem is 'Laying Here' with blissful keys and subtle vocals, it's a shame summer is on the decline with beauties like this coming out.

On the flip 'Coast Spotting' has a spinetingling melody which rises and falls whilst on the closer ''Fallout' is a dreamy dancefloor jam. Keep your eyes peeled on this kid in the future.

Wbeeza -Bagwag EP (buy)

Dub Phizix-Editor EP

2011-09-07T19:41:00.001+01:00

Ever since starting round my blog around 12 months ago, it has grown into a primarily a music-based blog sharing and promoting new releases, classic represses, showcasing upcoming dates, or simply blogging about what I've been listening to. This has leaned for the most part towards house, techno, electronic and alternative indie music. However that's not to say my blog isn't open to anything else.

For my first foray into other 'sounds', I'm proud to share Dub Phizix's first release on Marcus Intalex's Manchester-based Drum and Bass label Soul:R. The label is now over 10 years old and for their 52nd (!) release they have decided on a very local affair featuring Dub Phizix and the vocal talents of Chimpo, Strategy and Fox who are all proud Mancunians.

Dub Phizix has been in the game much longer than his relative unknowness may suggest. Schooled in forward thinking drum and bass since 2000, his productions have over the last couple of years received heavy support, especially 'Slow that Flow', which got plenty of airplay from well respected independent radio shows in addition to be being played by renowed DJs such as Fabio, Marky and Marcus Intalex himself.

Soul:r 052 Dub Phizix - The editor E.P. by Marcusintalex Soul:rHQ

This release is available from the fantasically named 'Bunch of Cuts' and all good record/digital outlets from September 19th.

Marcus Intalex's legendary Drum and Bass night 'Soul:ution' also continues its residency at Band on the Wall at the end of the month. The labelhead features alongside dnb pioneer Goldie with MC duties going to DRS. Get tickets here.

Top Ten Tracks August

2011-08-29T14:14:00.000+01:00

Listened to an abundance of everything this month (being relatively poor makes me stay in and listen to music), and only really turned on the tele when the footy's been on. Proper summer yeah.

1. Virgo Four-It's a Crime (Hunee Underground Remix) (buy)

After the hefty box set release of 'Resurrection' earlier this year, Virgo Four were always going to be subject to some remix treatment. Whilst the remix of 'It's a Crime' from Caribou got many people salivating, it was the subtley deep remix from Hunee that got me reaching for my wallet.

2. Boo Williams-Mortal Trance (buy)

More Rush Hour related reissued goodness. This time courtesy of Boo Williams.

3. Jazzy-Lonely (Underground Goodie Mix) (buy)

'Garage' House deepness from 1992 by Cajmere. Ace.

4. Manuel Tur-Most of this Moment (Isolee Remix) (buy)

Stunning rework of a very underrated producer.

5. Rick Poppa Howard-Do What You Have to Do (Vocal) (buy)

Deeply soulful tinged House from the Howard Family.

6. Dorisbourg-Emotion (buy)

A couple of years back I used to absolutely cain abstract, inward looking very deep house music, mainly from Germany. Like this. Tracks like this from Dorisbourg released earlier this year make me do it all over again.

7. Exquisite Taste-It's You That's Happening (buy)

A great reissue of disco that I quickly snapped up. Discovered this gem over at Beat Electric a while back, a site dedicated to unearthing and restablishing forgotten classics.

8. Craft Spells-The Fog Rose High (buy)

More whimsy bedroom pop from the States on Captured Tracks. This track is that good it wouldn't be out of place on early New Order records. They play Islington Mill in October.

9. Chad Van Gaalen-Peace on the Rise (buy)

'Peace on the Rise' is one of many highlights from 'Diaper Island', Chad Van Gaalen's 4th album. Missed this guy playing at the Deaf Institute because of a family wedding only last week. Bugger.

10. Pure X-You're in It Now (buy)

Originally released two years, ago Pure X (formally Pure Ecstasy) have remastered/remixed their first ever EP in anticpation of their album release 'Pleasure' which dropped a couple of weeks back. They play Deaf Institute soon.