Top 100 Chart placements for Electro (Classic / Detroit / Modern)
Updated 18 hours ago
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'Wandt Uncorked' is the latest offering from Berlin-based organic/electronic label Puca Sounds. Helmed by the multi-percussionist, genre bending synth master Niklas Wandt, 'Uncorked' feels like an homage to infinite dance-floors both in and out of this world, slotted neatly into three diverse tracks. The connection throughout is undoubtedly found in familiar percussive reverbs laid with lucid synths from the first track, left with a feeling of no stone lying unturned. A1 - Wandt Uncorked The first track of the EP is a prog-heavy requiem, laced with warped synths and a percussive softness inviting you to take it straight to the dance-floor. 'Wandt Uncorked's' sonic agility is framed by the kind of driving energy that only swells more as you move, offering a new rhythm layer by layer. A2 - Gottesfu Offering dreamy synths with echoes of 'A Hundred Days Off'-era Underworld, 'Gottesfu' bends into a sprawling, sexy-weird five minutes of bliss. Building with a familiar-feeling vibrato and the cosiest anchor of bass, the second track from Niklas is your backdrop for mid dance-floor moments and after-hours alike in love. B - The Prowler The B-side to Wandts latest EP glides through every unchartered subaquatic realm imaginable. Slick breaks blend evenly into myriad underwater drones and/or extra terrestrial cries to form a deftly cast soundscape that truly highlights Wandts prowess as a percussionist.
A few years ago, "Pastillitas" by Ali X x Ximena & Pvlomo stormed the scene and swiftly became a staple party anthem. Now, recognizing its enduring popularity, we're thrilled to unveil a fresh take on this beloved track with a brand new set of remixes. Featuring a diverse lineup of global talent, this EP is poised to reignite dancefloors and captivate audiences all over again. Leading the charge on remix duty is Mexican artist BadWolf, known for his raw, stripped-down style that has consistently topped the charts. Following suit, Phunkadelica presents their unique "Mitsubishi Mix," blending Italo Disco with rave influences. Ali X himself contributes a remix filled with psychedelic wizardry, adding another layer of intrigue to the collection. Rounding out the EP, TH3OS brings a burst of dynamic energy with a club-ready version that's bound to incite euphoria wherever it's played. Shaking things up, label boss Jason Peters injects a dose of electro-funk into the mix. In addition to these stellar remixes, the EP also offers a shorter version of the original track, allowing listeners to relive the timeless allure of the 2018 hit. Get ready to experience "Pastillitas Remixes" and witness the evolution of a modern classic. Artwork by Cristina Capetillo
"The Mysterious Sound Of Emptiness" is the second release from the Creative Interface label, produced by Ali Sajed aka ASYD in the city of Granada. This EP maintains a solid foundation of electro with touches of ambient and IDM, produced using hardware, plugins, original recordings and other elements that give it a personal character. The name refers to the sound that emptiness could potentially have, and the mystery that would accompany appreciating it.
Detroit native Will Simpson returns with a dark & gritty, vocal driven, electro influenced passion-piece. We The People is a loud & bold sonic Constitution paying homage to the vintage mystique and global influence of the Detroit underground dance music culture.
A1: Music For A While, Tommy 2000 Off the back of revered releases on G-Town and UTTU, one-off producer Tommy 2000 makes his return on newly formed Shy Bairns. A sublime swingy 4x4 garage cut, "Music For A While" is cinematic insofar as it is club-oriented. Early radio support from Kassian (Rinse FM) B1: R U Ready, Wodda One of the most talented young producers in the dance music scene, Wodda is the front runner of a new wave of heavily 90's influenced artists. His coveted BeeYou Records EP "Time is Up" was one of the most highly anticipated releases of 2022. "R U Ready" leads the B-Side of "Get Nowt", the first label release from reliable Geordie party starters, Shy Bairns - and this track is right on brand. 150 bpm techno, catchy melodies and rowdy basslines. Pua euphoria. B2: Freak Movements, Bunney Making her name in Newcastle, now Manchester based Bunney is an out and out creative talent. Her renowned DJ sets have an open approach, encouraging a friendly and positive atmosphere on the dance-floor. Taking influences from the realms of techno, breakbeat, acid and bass, her first release as a producer "Freak Movements" is a formidable debut. The track's moody electro-infused groove is drenched in a huge acid lead built for the club. Shy Bairns Shy Bairns is a collective of young people best known for filling dancefloors around the North East with their infamous parties. With this principle in mind, Shy Bairns continue to push for the creative progression of young artists in and around the North East. Get Nowt is the first release on the newly formed Shy Bairns record label. Releasing 10th May 2024, the 3 track VA features some of the most exciting young producers coming out of the North East region right now. By listening and supporting, you are helping Shy Bairns to provide continuous support to their resident artists in a way that nurtures, motivates and rewards their skills and creativity. "The North East is rich with talent and culture yet lacks resources, forcing many young creatives elsewhere. Our aim is to create a platform that helps shine a light on our region, encapsulating the rich beauty of the North East."
Minimum Syndicat (also known as MS or M-Syndicat) are two musicians from Paris who have been making electronic noise and live performances for decades. They are known for their very unique mix of acid, rave and industrial on the one hand and cinematic, psychedelic, sci-fi landscapes on the other. S.C.H.O.R.L. is their first full length album. Like some kind of bleak space opera it tells its story of lonely subaquatic outposts, Soviet droids and mantis-priests gathering. The core is spaced out electro, but it also has elements of techno, doomcore, breakbeat and industrial, one could say. "At this point subgenres are less important than in the past, it's more like the alternative electronic scene against the industry turning techno into moronic money-driven entertainment., they say, and right they are, so let's end this here. The album features two collaborations with French heavyweights Umwelt and Voiron, the artwork comes from the legendary Belgian artist Elzo Durt, who made some of our strongest artworks in the past and who is a fan of Minimum Syndicat himself. The 2x12 is limited to 100 copies, hand numbered and comes with a silk-screen A2 poster with a version of the artwork. MS will also be releasing a special series of digital releases called "Mutant Signal on their own label.
Movement is life! The fifth studio album of the project explores the theme of sport and physical activity. Overcoming oneself through exertions as a way of self-development and interaction with the world. This time the musical content of the release is Electro and related styles - Broken Beat, 2-Step, Electro Funk and Freestyle Electronica.
I am very proud to present you Tronic's 500th release. When I started the label close to 30 years ago, I never thought that it would reach such a milestone. There have been many highs and lows, but what kept us going was the true passion for honest house and techno and always trying to push forward! This release features three of my tracks as well as a remix from techno OG Joey Beltram. The label is as strong as ever and I want to thank all my team, as well all of the supporters throughout the years, and dare i say generations! - Christian Smith
Jock D, a West Palm Beach, Florida based Miami Bass/Hip-Hop rapper, producer, and scratch DJ, who earned fame as one of the chief creative forces behind Cut It Up Def Records in the late 1980's and early 1990's, joins forces with Grow on this collaboration fusing sounds of classic electro bass with some modern electro vibes. Jock D laid down all the scratching for 'Connected' while Grow handled production, vocal, mix, and master duties. CHP Recordings is proud to share this party rocker with you all celebrating the music that keeps us all connected!
Making his Dekmantel debut with a flourish of symphonic, transcendental techno, Sepehr takes us into a fictional metaphysical zone he calls the Genesis Domain. Over the past 10 years NYC-based Sepehr Alimaghams versatile club music practice has taken in techno, D&B, electro, EBM and acid on a suite of scene-leading labels. This new EP builds on the pseudo-spirituality he explored on recent LP Fall From Grace with an exploration of an imagined space where your reality can be reinvented at any given moment. On the A side, the title track sets the pace with a throbbing, sparkling-yet-spooky trip that allows a touch of trance into the mix, while Delicate Senses explores snappier broken beat rhythms and edgy atmospherics with a distinctly moody outlook. The mystical electro shades of Twisted Solstice and Planet Lonelys melancholic 4/4 pastures strike a note between contemplative introspection and anthemic main stage energy. Queen Of Demons is the consummate EP closer, leaning on brooding low end and snaking, intricate beats with a healthy dose of shimmering beauty up top. Consistent with his versatile approach since day one, Sepehr proves any blend of tempos and rhythms can be folded into his vivd, evocative sound world the results will always draw you in close until his vision becomes yours.
Introducing RON MERCY, a young DJ and Producer hailing from Tampa, Florida. Renowned for crafting electrifying tracks deeply rooted in the Miami Bass tradition, his contemporary approach to the genre sets the dancefloor ablaze. Following his debut in Street Bangers Factory 23 on Moveltraxx, RON MERCY proudly presents his inaugural solo EP on the label, titled "VIBRATE." Brace yourself for a Bass / Club sonic journey featuring four exhilarating new bangers, alongside his SBF classic, "Girls In The Club."
Centrikal is the moniker of Patrick Anthony Frye, a DJ, producer, and event organizer based in Portland, Oregon who has released and collaborated with artists such as DJ Slip, Freaky Chakra, and Style of Eye. A seasoned producer with past releases on labels like SubSensory and Peloton Music, in recent years hes turned his attention toward the electro breakbeat sound. On his Acid Party EP, he comes out swinging with three booming electro tunes. The title track is pure 303-styled firepower, with a constantly evolving acid line that's sure to turn up the heat on any dance floor. Here Comes the Sun is a techy affair, with a big chunky low end and playful rhythms. Bounce offers a touch of melody and a deep modulating bassline that perfectly rounds out this fantastic EP.
Roll out the handkerchiefs: Electro maverick Legowelt unveils "The Sad Life Of An Instagram DJ" EP on Barcelonas imprint Selvamancer. Pioneering electronic artist Legowelt delivers a sonic masterpiece with his latest EP, "The Sad Life of an Instagram DJ". This 5-track release offers a captivating glimpse into how Legowelt's ideal rave would sound, blending techno, acid, and electro elements into an immersive and fun sound journey full of trippy bangers. Each track on the EP is meticulously crafted to evoke euphoria, showcasing Legowelt's unparalleled creativity. Like a tear rolling down a cheek in a moment of nostalgic introspection, only to spiral towards the dancefloor.The moment the tear hits the floor, together with the heavy kicks and smooth synth action, it launches your mind back into the ongoing rave.
Prophet is proud to present the next release with the Berlin based talent Key Clef, and his "Hell Behind" EP, that including 4 emotional tracks, and 3 remixes by Berkel, Booz and Cosmox. Hell Behind A countdown to be wrapped in the arms of hell, Electro sounds characterise a new, exclusive track. Hell Behind (Berkel Remix) Berkel manages to convert the vibrations of the original into something exceptional, surgical and effective effects allow you to get lost on a journey of no return. Hell Behind (Booz Remix) Scary evolutions and intriguing sounds manage to give your own vision of the concept, guesswork eliminated, the rules change with Booz. Accent Hypnotic and SCI-FI sounds, this song makes you travel, giving the feeling of losing the unknown. Fast and punchy groove. Accent (Cosmox Remix) Track revisited by Cosmox which immediately makes it clear in which direction to move, fit and thoughtful sounds together with hard beats. Cemento Drum hits and brilliant sounds form the perfect backdrop for this expression. Old school sounds fused with modern logarithms. Looped Fascinating and dispersive melodies make listening to the song anomalous. Clear, detailed sounds can transport you until you cant find your way back. --------------------------------------------------------- Artist: Key Clef Title: Hell Behind Ep Cat No: PRPH029 Release date: 04.03.2024 only on Bandcamp & Formaviva. Format: Digital Tracklist: 1 - Hell Behind 2 - Hell Behind (Berkel Remix) 3 - Hell Behind (Booz Remix) 4 - Accent 5 - Accent (Cosmox Remix) 6 - Cemento 7 - Looped Mastering: Divide by SouthBerlin Artwork: Karembeu
Step into the electrifying world of Elektronik Zoo Sounds, where music transcends boundaries and ignites the senses. Join us on a sonic adventure like no other as we unveil our latest release, showcasing five tracks handcrafted to mesmerize your soul. Embark on this journey with host Marco Bailey, whose mastery of deep-folding techno and electrifying beats sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. Feel the pulse of his music as it weaves through the realms of sound, captivating and enthralling all who listen. Dive deeper into the abyss with PRSPCTV, also known as Xentrix, whose deft touch with both techno and electro infuses the air with an electric energy that's impossible to resist. Let the rhythms guide you as you lose yourself in the hypnotic melodies and pulsating basslines. And as the night reaches its crescendo, let the dynamic duo of Tom Hades & Soren Aalberg take you on a journey through a synth-infused landscape, where every note resonates with emotion and every beat reverberates through your soul. Join us as we redefine the boundaries of music and usher in a new era of sonic exploration. Welcome to Elektronik Zoo Sounds, where the music never stops and the party never ends.
Finnish deep techno maestro Kaspiann makes his Mantis debut with four densely packed depth charges of dancefloor meditation. The Helsinki-based artist has been entrenched in the citys underground scene for a long time, organising official and unofficial parties, DJing prolifically and performing live. Since establishing his VALA label in 2021 via a split release with regular collaborator Multicast Dynamics, his sound has refined towards an elegant, heads-down sound which is represented perfectly on this four-track excursion. From the even-tempered mantra of Satakieli to the aqueous, lightly dubbed electro of Tuiskussa Langennut, the warm after hours synth bath of Havinavalssi and the pensive percussive of Solina, Kaspiann demonstrates a keen balance between richly layered detail and an overall subtlety heavyweight music that feels light on the ears.
Following DJ Godfather's 'Love, Detroit' EP which brought in remixes from Rolando, DJ 3000, Gettoblaster, Invite Only, Oliver Way and TekNoNo we now get 100%% pure DJ Godfather with 'The D Theme' EP. From techno to electro and ghetto-tech 'The D Theme' displays all sides of the legendary Detroit turntablist's dancefloor facets. It's time to get your jit on one more time!
Rave connoisseurs Superlux have once more compiled another fantastic genre-melding release, this time calling on the versatile sounds of Laudrup. The London-based Colombian's eccentric yet dancefloor-orientated sound sees the talented producer land three originals on the sought-after imprint, alongside a hazy remix from label co-founder and regular, N-Gynn. Laudrup's 'Siempre EP' captures the essence of Superlux, as they maintain their stay at the forefront of the underground, always thinking outside of the box. Opening track "Siempre" is a simmering trip, bubbling synths and splurges of acid create a futuristic and mechanical atmosphere, as crisp drum work maneuvers you through the smoke-filled mornings in the club.
Realm Of Perception EP' is more than just a collection of songs; it's a sonic odyssey that transports you to new dimensions of experience. Whether you're lost in the throes of the dancefloor or contemplating life's mysteries, this EP offers something for everyone, inviting you to explore the boundaries of perception and imagination. AREVILO Records
Embark on an electrifying journey with Synthbotics' latest EP, "Electro Planet". Synthbotics is the collaboration between Philip Adeon and Damian Henderson. Adeon Records 4th release, explores the intriguing concept of a world where humans and machines co-exist in perfect harmony. "Electro Planet": The primary track of this EP catapults you onto an alien planet where electronic pulses serve as its heartbeat. Synthbotics meticulously assembles a sonic network of phat 808 Electro beats, deep vocoded sounds, and Acid synth lines, rendering a vivid depiction of this Electro Planet. "The Machines are Back Alive" delves into the resurgence of machines and their symbiotic relationship with humans, envisioning a future where the two will become one. It's a riveting blend of human emotion and machine precision, captured in a rhythm that's both persistent and steadfast. "Moog's Whisper": The last track represents the rise of sentient machines. It's a moving discourse on the advent of a new era, articulated through deep Moog synthlines and jazz-like improvisation, accompanied by pulsating rhythms. "Electro Planet EP" by Synthbotics transcends the boundaries of a typical EP - it's an auditory journey into a future where technology and human essence merge into robust and relentless Electro beats. Join Synthbotics on this unparalleled exploration of sound and technology, where boundaries fade away, and the future of music unfolds.
Marking Axel Helios' return to Shabu Recordings, Tel Un Poison Dans La Gorge is the first single of his upcoming audiovisual album, Cerebral Wastelands. Shifting his focus from music to Media Art around 2018, Axel presented Cerebral Wastelands as part of a residency at Societe des Arts Technologiques in 2022 in the form of an innovative interactive audio-visual performance where the public can change the music and the visuals in real-time. Played at Mutek, ACT Festival, and Imersa, Cerebral Wastelands garnered attention and hype on its innovative concept, as well as on its music. Tel Un Poison Dans la Gorge is a pumping mix of EBM and Electro, with a touch of glitch and sound-design focused techniques. Evocative of darker tones associated with sci-fi aesthetics, this track lets Axel's use of french Spoken Word shine throughout the track. Based on a text from Lau Helie, Tel Un Poison Dans La Gorge's lyrics are based on the internal monologue of someone in a toxic relationship, comparing itself like a poison stuck in one's throat.
Westcoast warehouse originator Errol Bangz teams up with LA legend Techno Tupac for a classic electro track reminiscent of Egyptian Lover era freestyle. Pounding synth bass, fat claps and 80's leads meander around Techno Tupac's iconic vocal stylings. The 80's are calling, and they approve. Distributed by Label Engine - www.label-engine.com
Moustache records 050 ! TAFKAMP and David Vunk present: Frequent Flyers - Skypriority EP Jacking Chi-house electro acid techno project ouwe stijl. 3 fistpumping peaktime jams for the dancefloor. Recorded produced and mixed by 2 underground club djs from Rotterdam in the bunker downtown Rotterdam city center. A1 The Jacker. Jack Jack Jack Jack the house. A hard rocking banger for the floor and a tribute to the Chi-town. Expect a massive bassline and crazy rhythm section. B1 Acid Party. A jacking acidtechno oldskool-ish track with tb303 acid funk and some track muting fader action for the freaks. Hands in the air guaranteed. B2 Interzone. Raw Acid Electro, early rave steps. No fillers only killers. Skypriority red coloured 180 gram Vinyl. Don't sleep on this very limited pressing. A true collectors item for the KLM fans and fetishists.
For release number 046, Luv Shack Records brings together two long time contributors Jakobin and ROTCIV for a split EP thats brimming with references to early 90s electronica. Jakobin lays the foundation with the bubbly, trance infused "Drawan", follows up with the spooky, upbeat electro of "Skulpt", and finishes off with "Octagonial Tribe", a track that oscillates between laid back melodies and squelchy acid sequences. On the flip-side, ROTCIV showcases his signature style of industrial new beat madness: "Frenesy" marries breakbeats with syncopated synthesizer sequences, "No More Room in Hell" sound like a late 80s Italo Disco instrumental on steroids, while "The Confidence" opts for broken beats and ethereal FM-flutes. As a digital bonus, ROTCIV gifts us with a heavy hitting, acid infused track by the name of "Living Art".
Down Low Music returns with a catalog number reserved for over 20 years, dL-006. Circa 2002, after releasing music from artists such as Stinkworx, Plastic Sleeves, Convextion and Macho Cat Garage, the dL catalog skipped from dL-005 to dL-007. dL-006 was reserved for DFD aka Troy Anderson, a core part of the dL crew from Texas. Troy had previously released excellent records as Cityboy and Waverider (both recently re-issued on We're Going Back), and as DFD on the first Down Low Music compilation, 'Satellite Cities' in 2001. But a full EP was never finalized, until now... Over time, multiple projects were lost in the void and time passed until Troy recently sent out some new works from his lab. Down Low loved the new tracks and decided this was the time to complete the missing piece. It's a wonderful glitch in time, four new DFD productions that fit easily in the early 00's sound of the label back then, while also a magnificent piece of machine music from the future. Proper electro with a touch of human feels which is something that seems to be essential for a classic Down Low Music release.
Science Cults Occupants series is now on Vinyl for the first time and with version 1 weve assembled a global array of artists including John Selway, Kim Cosmik, Blixaboy, Thee J Johanz, Arsonist Recorder and more. Presented as a double 12 Orange Color Vinyl LP. Astute observers may notice that there is more to the artwork than meets the eye. We find ourselves in a distant future where the remaining population of Earth is ruled by a mysterious A.I. that calls itself EVA. EVA has sent human-piloted research vessels to the farthest reaches of the galaxy to scout for potentially habitable planets and report any findings. These are the Occupants and they're slowly awakening as EVA's grip on their minds erodes.
John Selway, Kim Cosmik, Thee J Johanz, Aura Nox, Blixaboy, St. Theodore, Arsonist Recorder, Francois Dillinger, Cybereign, Larionov, Syrte, Visions Of Glosters
A collaboration between friends and life long enthusiasts of breakbeat and rave music in all its various forms, Brent Aquasky (Amen Brother/Vinyl Fanatiks) and Damo B (Emotec/Outta Limits) are the players behind AmenTec. An imprint dedicated to the cross pollination of artists who record on their respective labels. Their mission: coming together to fill the spaces between the Electro, Techno and good old fashioned UK Hardcore. Encompassing the sounds and all important ethos of the golden era of rave, AmenTec has been making its mark over the last few years. Welcoming upstarts MOY, Bufo Bufo, Diplomat & Beagle, Fugitive, Silver Fox and Sound Synthesis to don their battle gear and reach for the lasers on this collector focused "special edition" battle series. With the label approching its 7th release, the time is right to present a 13 track compilation of select works to celebrate their mission. "Off Ya Box – Part One" brings together label highlights and a whole bunch of exclusive cuts. From the spatial Acid tones of Sound Synthesis to the juddering Tech-Step of Bobo, there's no messing when it comes to the robotic Funk of Dawl, the jilted waves of Zobol, the EZ roll of Lloyd Stellar, or knockout sounds of Flatliner for that matter. In 2024, this is RAVE as pure as it comes – NOW HEAR DIS
Sound Synthesis, Ova Doce, Difool, Bobo, Dawl, Zobol, Inkipak, Diplomat, Beagle, Lloyd Stellar, Moy, Flatliner
The Swedish/Icelandic young prodigy Dataintrång has left the electro scene in shock after in only 2 years coming from nowhere risen to the Top of the pyramid. Making his debute on Luke Eargoggles "Stilleben Records" imprint in February last year 2023 with "Malicious Malware" then teamed up with Eargoggle making their first record "The Super trance Experience" also released on Stilleben. Over a year they challenged the universe making over 45 records and over 270+ trax in less than 1 year after their first meeting in the studio. Most released on Lukes imprint they danced with the Devil creating the album series and concept "Astroworld" with one album for every Zodiac sign. Smashing into 2024 on Jan 1st they released "Milldoffs Lakejer" completely switching the sound back to the roots of electro style. They also are very soon proud to present two vinyl releases on both superstar Helena Hauffs "Return To Disorder" imprint and Pareidolia Records by Stefania Meneghello. Now Dataintrång through Milano based Fu.me Records is ready to show the scene his solo work as an conceptual album in a much darker, melancholic and thought provoking fashion of style. "Your Reality Is A Fantasy" 10 track release is testing the limits of humanitys darker fantasys, existentialism, critical thinking, prejudice, autistic awareness and where the line fä stretches in the art worlds freedom of speech. Also opening the question of what is real and what is considered reality. Is it all a computer simulated experience or is there levels of levels of different awareness grade where nothing is really real? The title and trax of the album leaves it up to you to discover your reality and fantasys. Existentialy thought-provoking the album now hits through Fume with it's dark electro aesthetic soundscape and it's driven techno-esque hopelessness the world 18th March 2024 on Fume Bandcamp and later on all major streaming services and boutiques. "It feels like in a time where AI, Quantum-Computers and Ones and Zeros this record really comes perfectly in the electro scene where status in what gear used and Hardware Vs Software debate is more important than the musics quality a record created on a laptop and a Bluetooth speaker about the future and today's acceleration of AI really hits the nerve of provocative perfection."
Shipwrec have delved into the underbelly of electronics for their latest discovery. Fake Youth Cult is the brand new project of Richard van Kruysdijk, an artist who has been integral to the Dutch music scene. Following releases on Delsin, as well as founding his own Music for Speakers label, this latest undertaking explores the darker hues of Kruysdijks audio creations. Across six tracks, a realm of shadows and steel is constructed. From the murky tones of Visitor to the industrial and blackened Scorched, a towering sound of punishing percussion looms over the listener. Techno is central message. Despite this, the piercing coldness of electro rises in the incising and stark Messing. The influence of punk comes to the fore in racing rhythms and lean strings that make up Smear. BPMs drop in the slow burning EBM stained Management. The machines take control for the finale. A relentless kick is the motor that drives this seven minute juggernaut to the close. Broad and brutish brilliance from a prodigious talent.
Dago Sondervan uploads his code-driven debut to the Censor mainframe. Known for live-coding using Sonic-Pi and TidalCycles, Dago transports you straight into front-left of the Algorave. The EP includes a dimension changing remix from Annie Hall, and a further set of twisted electro remixes from CYRK and F.R.B. (an alias of Alex Jann). This is one for the replicants, bots and cyborgs. releases 12th April 2024
In a convergence of two of the most celebrated names in contemporary electronic music, Karsten Pflum steps out on Central Processing Unit with the Liars EP. As anyone who has followed either Pflum's work for labels such as Worm Interface/Furthur Electronix or the Sheffield imprint's recent run of top-quality electro joints will have expected, this coming together proves to be a match made in heaven. What we have here is a tour de force of modern machine music. With Liars, Pflum achieves that rare feat of making something that is at once boundary-pushing yet also thrillingly immediate, his attention to detail shining through with each well-placed snare hit or leftfield structural choice. Equally apt for home listening or dancefloor deployment, Liars is a delight for heads and hedonists alike. Constantly evolving while also cleaving to a relentless groove throughout, opener 'WAN1' is a brilliant scene-setter for Liars. The track slinks between sections of seething post-Drexciyan acid and eerie vignettes which balance out haunted house synth licks with the sort of punishing bass blasts that recall early grime classics like Youngstar's 'Pulse X'. A sly shift of key halfway through the track only serves to redouble 'WAN1's restless brilliance. After 'WAN1', 'LOLA' represents something of a gear-switch. The track's wiggly opening bassline is a red herring - make no mistake that we're fully into braindance territory on this one, the drums skittering across the mix as Pflum fills the track out with jungle-adjacent delays and softly insistent synth pads. As 'LOLA' goes on, blurts of synth and some stiffening in the drum work pushes the track into pure rhythm workout territory. First B-side 'MOUSFOLK' somewhat splits the difference between Liars' A-sides. This track has 'WAN1's unyielding stomp and prominent acid bass line, but the helter-skelter drum breaks and wandering keyboard lines are very much pulling from 'LOLA's zanier energy. As with the other joints here, 'MOUSFOLK' is elevated by Pflum's composerly touch, the Dane frequently throwing in new sonic tidbits - a skippy snare tattoo, a single-note synth loop which sounds like a hovering spaceship - that reinvigorate the mix. Pflum's musicality is at the fore once more on closer 'BALM'. For the first section of 'BALM', a rich and sombre keyboard fugue, you'd be hard pressed to say whether you're listening to a producer of club music or a contemporary classical maestro. The way Pflum builds this central motif up with deft broken-beat drum programming, a wheezing synth countermelody and distant vocal sighs is equally delightful, the whole track coming off like a kindred spirit of the electronica-infused experiments on Radiohead's 2000 masterwork Kid A. A brilliantly unorthodox collection of electro-braindance hybrids, Liars is a barnstorming Central Processing Unit debut from the seasoned Karsten Pflum. RIYL: AFX, Silicon Scally, DMX Krew, Matmos
'Solid State Lies' is a compilation of remixes further exploring Grow and Anthony Nuzzo's dark dystopian electro single 'Solid State Lie.' Cyborg Rhetoric, Helsmoortel, James Wolfe and Beezie take the helm and offer up their creative versions of the single resulting in an eclectic collection of remixes. Grow and Anthony Nuzzo also serve up a dub mix of the original track.