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Making a return to his Chronicle alias for the first time since 2001, Tim Cant brings his unique blend of laid back atmospherics to the Spatial family for the first time with Time and Space on Curvature. Sit back, relax, or dance Chronicle has you covered for either with this welcome return to the scene.

A1 Geosynchronous Getting straight to business with an intro of thick Hot Pants breaks, Geosynchronous sees Chronicle bring his unique take on atmospherics to Curvature in welcome style. An early breakdown with synths and subtle melodies is followed by a dreamy layer of two step amens and 808 basslines, completing a collage of beats as the increasingly memorable melodies slowly weave their story throughout the track.

A2 Life On Earth A dream like, reflective affair is up next with Life On Earth Chronicle returning to the late 90s vibe of the moniker with a plethora of classic FX, vocal samples and long constant synthwork cascading above. Utilising a simple but effective core melody, danceable two step breaks and layers of detail that would fit in any retrospective set from the Progression Sessions era to the modern renaissance, this is one to savour.

B1 Future Fragments A real treat for fans of synthy, sci fi tinged atmospheric goodness from eras gone by as Chronicle transports you to 99 Shepherds Bush Empire you had to be there now you can be with a track that encapsulates the era perfectly. Drizzling the mix with frequent echoing effects and washes of spacey synths and pads over an earworm melody not to mention the crisp rolling breaks this is a versatile and enduring track youll keep going back to.

B2 Nostradamus Closing out the EP, we have Nostradamus which opens lightly with hi hats and airy padwork before finely edited old school breakwork injects energy to the mix. The breaks build with additional elements creating a very danceable and rhythmic loop, punctuated by a catchy melody. One sample proclaims The Future Is Power - if its in the hands of producers like Chronicle, effortlessly channeling the past with a modern twist, we know we are in good hands.

Words by Chris Hayes Spatial Red Mist

No stranger to the Spatial family following the release of his excellent Age of Awareness EP back in 2023, Eusebeia brings his eclectic breakbeat driven vibes to sister label Curvature for an EP spanning a variety of energies with a free-spirited approach to drum patterns and atmosphere you wont want to miss.

A1 Set In Motion Shimmering melodic keys and light hi hats quietly introduce Set In Motion, as Eusebeia takes a laid back opening approach to his Curvature debut. Clean, wandering breaks enter the mix and develop continually, as a subtly used, luscious female vocal greets the listener with a curiously soothing vibe. Following the breakdown, a deep, pounding bassline punctuates skillful synthwork riddled with intrigue and atmosphere to round off a unique, eclectic track.

A2 In Perpetuum Stepping things up with a doggedly breakbeat focus, In Perpetuum is an energetic piece with an opening backdrop akin to an aging printer being coaxed back to life, before an echoed vocal welcomes hyperactive, rasping breaks, edited and chopped with the scintillating talent we have come to expect from Eusebeia. The latter half of the track changes up the vibe slightly with inquisitive padwork gliding above the omnipresent edits.

B1 Flow State Subtle cowbell style cymbals and gentle melodies introduce Flow State, before an inimitable duality of old school atmospheric breaks pass the baton repeatedly through the track in typically impactful style from Eusebeia. The melodies and an understated bassline wrapped around kickdrums continues through the various phrases before the beats depart, leaving the listener to reflect on a truly captivating track just as the title suggests.

B2 The Cure For What Ails You Reverberating percussion and classic whale sounds instantly grasp your attention before ominous 808 bass ushers in a thunderous helping of pure amen pleasure sent straight from the old school - edited and programmed to perfection by Eusebeia with a finesse seldom seen in modern production. Dense kickdrums vibe perfectly with the highs and mids of a track destined to headline many an atmospheric junglists set.

Cover with many tears

Ulterior Motives launch their main label with a single from DJ Persuasion, featuring a Liftin’ Spirits remix from Ant Miles. The label, which is helmed by DJ and producer Noah Tucker, began life in 2021 with an anonymous edit of a much-loved underground hip hop gem. Two further 12”s in the white label series followed along similar lines, joining the dots between jungle, footwork and r’n’b in UM style. Since then, they have also launched their cassette series with a Metrist mix covering golden era tech step and d’n’b. DJ Persuasion is principally known for A History Of Hardcore, a series of ten mixes covering ’88-’98 which appeared across a number of platforms between 2015 and 2020. Certain entries in the series appeared on cassette via The Trilogy Tapes, Blackest Ever Black (Id Mud) and Tape Echo. Persuasion also hosted the NTS Demon Poetry show (now the Drum Poetry show) for some years, and contributed In Focus sessions covering the work of Dillinja and LTJ Bukem, alongside Dev:Null. Jameela EP covers four contrasting, but also concentric areas of the hardcore continuum, featuring a remix from Liftin’ Spirits aka Ant Miles of Origin Unknown. The title track rolls out at bleeding edge jungle hardcore tempo, taking in a mixture of familiar and unfamiliar references. Liftin’ Spirits contributes a standout remix which reframes Jameela as a drum’n’bass epic, opening with a panoramic intro and a quaking bass drop, then building to soaring strings. Robin Gets Revenge is an audial intervention into one of the last remaining unsolved mysteries in acid house, and a stomping 89’-’90 style jammer to boot. The B2 finds Jameela in a slower guise, offering something for after the club and the warm up.

Continuing the theme of bringing through up and coming talent, Western Lore snaps up rising Manchester star, Wdds for his very first vinyl release.

After continuous support for his expertly crafted beats (previously digitally self released and via Repertoire Music) on Dead Man’s Chest’s SWU & Kool FM radio shows, Lore LTD sees the release of a trio of Wdds’ most heavyweight tunes on wax. Spaceship Riddim Jungle Tool is an utter dance floor destroyer. With an instantly recognisable and energy lifting hook and an all out assault of bassline heaven and amenisim to match, this rhythm is guaranteed to make a rave lift off.

Track A2 steps into Footwork territory, with a dance floor weapon of an entirely different ilk, pairing looped up vocal cuts with swung out and percussive drum machine rhythms, while the B side drifts back into rugged amen territory, this time drenched in deep sub and organic ambience

Hold tight for a double-sized drop of ruff n’ tuff jungle variations as Dead Man’s Chest and King Kutlass throw their weight around with six seismic slammers built for the shockout section. We previously welcomed Bristol’s Western Lore doyen Alex Eveson to Sneaker Social Club alongside Posse back in 2019, and now he returns with King Kutlass in tow for a 2 x 12” of heavy duty, darkside rollers.

The Western Lore remit has always been to push at the limits of the jungle template, embracing distinctive twists without losing the fundamentals of the sound, and that comes through loud and clear on this searing workout. From the compression chamber, stepped breaks of ‘Ride The Storm’ to lurid rave game-ender ‘We Control’, this is not club music for the feint hearted. There’s even space for nightmarish 4/4 thrust n’ stabs on ‘Heart Of The Sun’, pointing to the liminal zone where breakbeat hardcore, techno and rave all crossed paths en route to more fully formed stylistic conventions.

That’s the vibe which runs throughout this EP, where the rules feel a long way off and the madcap sample layering is heavily tipped towards psychological annihilation under the stuttering glare of the strobe light.

Mindgames' commitment to capturing the essence of golden era Jungle while infusing it with updated production techniques perfectly complements ASC's approach. On these two EP’s, ASC bridges the expansive soundscapes of his Spatial releases and the raw dynamism of his 2020 jungle trilogy for Samurai Music.

From the heads down launchpad of Shadow Of The Beast, to the deep stepping glide of Phaaze, and onto the epic scapes of Cells Interlinked, ASC writes a sonic manifesto of his mastery of deep jungle. Snowblind is a reverent nod to Photek’s fascination with space jazz, while Flux is a floating groove that snakes itself around one of the most infectious b lines you will hear anywhere.

Seven timeless entries in the Jungle story book that embody the spirit of the 90s while reshaping it’s framework into entrancing new forms.

Mindgames' commitment to capturing the essence of golden era Jungle while infusing it with updated production techniques perfectly complements ASC's approach. On these two EP’s, ASC bridges the expansive soundscapes of his Spatial releases and the raw dynamism of his 2020 jungle trilogy for Samurai Music.

From the heads down launchpad of Shadow Of The Beast, to the deep stepping glide of Phaaze, and onto the epic scapes of Cells Interlinked, ASC writes a sonic manifesto of his mastery of deep jungle. Snowblind is a reverent nod to Photek’s fascination with space jazz, while Flux is a floating groove that snakes itself around one of the most infectious b lines you will hear anywhere.

Seven timeless entries in the Jungle story book that embody the spirit of the 90s while reshaping it’s framework into entrancing new forms.

A familiar favorite, Deft, steps up with his second EP on Hooversound, featuring a VIP remix of one of his original songs taken from his 2020 ‘Burna’ EP.

Defts ‘Burna’ EP back in 2020 set the tone perfectly for Hooversound, it being the second release on the imprint following Hyroglific and Sinistarr’s almighty ‘BS6’. Deft’s hybrid artistic style of production sat perfectly within the launch of Hooversound as he went on to rise steadily within the underground electronic scene. Fast forward four years, Deft returns to Hooversound with an equally impressive follow up, entitled ‘Two Years’.
Yip Wong aka Deft has been producing music for nearly a decade. Within that time he has crafted a signature style using elements of dance, cinematic sound design, hip hop, jungle, footwork and 140. This enigmatic style of production has led him to release on 20/20 LDN, Exit, 1985 Music, Critical Music and more. His release schedule alongside his ever evolving sound has gained the attention of not only London and UK listeners, but fans worldwide.

Defts new ‘Two Years’ EP on Hooversound once again sees the talented producer drawing elements from 140, footwork and jungle, all laced with his ability to create immersive atmospheres and intricate percussion. It’s been teased across SHERELLE and NAINAs DJ sets for months, with it finally dropping to the masses this summer on Hooversound.

HLZhas comes correct with his debut solo single on Utopia Music.

For true drum & bass enthusiasts, Emilio Dimitri akaHLZ's name should already be on your radar. These tracks offer creativity and integrity, pushing the boundaries of his own respected style within the genre and nodding to times past with a modern update.

"Black Core" kicks things off with its icy break workouts, featuring raw, rasping drums with an industrial edge. It's not a high-speed roller but rather a sneaky creeper that satisfies those who want intricate beats backed with nightmarish overtones.

With "Arcane,"HLZtakes us on a journey of pure pressure in the way he knows best, stepping rhythms, stabbing yet gut-punching bass design, working in tandem with groovy tablas, clever fx builds, topped with lush euphoric pad work, 170 in the truest form.

Three certified anthems get brand new drum and bass reimaginations as Aussie superstar Luude teams up with Bru-C, Mattafix and Issey Cross respectively to give fresh flavour to these mega hits.

Up first, Kevin Lyttle’s early 2000’s, R&B singalong heater ‘Turn Me On’ gets an explosive, sub heavy DnB remake complete with slick new bars from Nottingham rapper Bru-C. Hot property Borai and Denham then stamp their signature sound on the track as they step up on remix duties.

On the flip, Mattafix’s infectious 2005 classic ‘Big City Life’ gets a trademark Luude reworking before Moby’s ‘Porcelain’ is weaved into an amen-infused, drum and bass banger ‘Oh My’ with UK singer Issey Cross providing the vocals.

Piezo’s Ansia imprint returns for its 8th outing ‘Imago’, inviting Berlin’s Unity Vega for a split EP of uptempo dancefloor explorations that mine that fertile space between footwork, drum’n’bass, dancehall and experimental contemporary club sonics.

Unity Vega leads the charge with ‘No Body No Mind’ - a waterlogged darkside skanker that sits somewhere between the half-stepping jungle of the Uvb-76 crew and the kind of oddball dancehall deconstructions often peddled by Ansia's extended circles.
Appearing again on the flip, Vega ups his pace on ‘Set Em’ - a nervy footwork roller that pits gully hip-hop vocal chops against rising bell chords and washes of delayed noise. Think Rashad dubbed out by Kevin Martin and you’re in the right ballpark.

Label head Piezo’s contributions continue along similar lines, albeit in his own unmistakable style. ‘Toughts, Heavy’ also finds the midpoint between d’n’b and dembow, this time marrying a gurgling acid bassline with a euphoric-turned-paranoiac trance lead.
Up next, ‘Nel Frigo Ah’ strips things back to the raw, banging basics: a looping vocal call pinned down by a frenetic crescendoing drum workout.

To close, Japanese legend Foodman delivers a pots-and-pans rework of ‘Thoughts, Heavy’ - a true curveball tool for the adventurous DJs amongst us.

Dutch jungle loons FFF and Coco Bryce team up once again for another Amen excursion on Myor Massiv. Space is the place on this 12”, with both jams featuring a short documentary's worth of chatter about giant planets, failed stars and opposing quadrants. Whereas FFF takes a rather intricate and, dare I say it, intelligent approach on the A-side, Coco Bryce's “More Massiv” goes straight for the throat, with Amen chops and a double tempo pulse bassline being dropped mere seconds after take off.

Type steps up to the plate next, with the 'Deeper Still EP' - his first solo release on Rupture.

Setting the dance alight with his Jupiter debut last year with the long awaited 'Hummer', he comes correct with a full EP in 2024. This time led by another heavily demanded Rupture dub - the mighty 'sk85'.

Aural Imbalance has enjoyed a colourful and celebrated journey through music over the years, taking in ambient soundscapes, deep house and of course, a pioneering role in atmospheric drum & bass. With Spatial, he has unearthed a pure, varied musical prowess seldom seen, with the ability to control both the lighter aspects of the mix as well as expert breakbeat craft. Infinity Spectrum showcases the breadth of talent Aural Imbalance possesses in one incredible package, not to be missed.

A1 - Aurealis Opening the album with a wonderfully serene track, Aural Imbalance delicately rolls out his trademark smooth ambience with building cymbals and an energetic break merging perfectly in the mix - along with a great, pounding undertone of bass. Riddled with old-school sensibilities, Aurealis layers the building blocks until the track opens up further through a superbly lush breakdown, blooming like a flower in the summer sun before the breaks return.

A2 - Glistening Stars Washing strings and the chitter-chatter of playful effects introduce Glistening Stars, before familiar, crisp old school breaks steal the limelight. A happy earworm melody soon reveals itself, and the breaks are gradually filtered back in following an other amazing breakdown before the melody takes on new life. Packed with detail and soul, this track will repeat on you long after you've moved on.

B1 - Alpha Curious, apprehensive tones punctuate a fascinating intro, with a deep old school bassline creeping out first to greet us, before the hi-hat laden break loses its inhibitions and roams free. Crafting a deliciously textured atmosphere, Aural Imbalance continues to showcase the breadth of his production techniques in his Spatial form, flecking the track with sumptuous melodies to create yet another gem.

B2 - Stargazers This piece opens with a special blend of quiet, epic serenity, evoking hope and wonder as amen cymbal work and a stabbing snare-heavy break pattern rise and fall in the surrounding symphony. The quietly musical bassline plays a key role in the aural world-building here, complementing the breaks it harmonises with superbly. Aural Imbalance allows the composition to breathe and flourish for a superbly executed final act. Delightful.

C1 - Slow Motion Introduced with quietly filtered breaks, Slow Motion dials back the pace with a break pattern which relaxes the snare while still maintaining a playful energy as the kicks and bass bumble along below. A uniquely atmospheric yet eccentric melody takes shape with dreamy pads filling the backdrop, and calming scatterings of echoing effects colliding and combining to generate a blissful collage of sound.

C2 - Apparition Switching up the vibe we have Apparition, which boldly utilises long, tranquil yet purposeful pad work before an immense break pattern riddled with stark snares and a jumpy bassline which rides the smothered kickdrums so well, they appear to be fused as one. The breaks on this are truly special and will move the discerning dancefloor for sure, Aural Imbalance continuing to reveal a never-ending depth to his sound.

D1 - Artificial Satellite Introduced with smooth synths and DJ-friendly hi hats, Artificial Satellite sees Aural Imbalance laying down a fresh showcase of old-school breakbeats, laced with that inimitable Spatial flavour. A swirling low-key sci-fi vibe punctuates the breakdown before the beats re-emerge. A deep, brooding bassline pulses beneath throughout, while the perfectly executed breaks enjoy their final flourish.

D2 - Unknown Forces Finally, up steps Unknown Forces for a blistering finale to the LP. Aural Imbalance is at his amen-editing best here with a truly superb showcase of analogue break patterns to nourish the ears and set pulses racing on the dancefloor. Deep bass elevates the gentle intro before thumping kicks begin an epic workout, chopped to perfection with synths and strings flying gracefully above. We couldn't have a Spatial LP without an amen banger could we? What a way to end

Words by Chris Hayes (Spatial/Red Mist)

Step Ball Chain’s unconventional prototype band trickpony is the 11th release on the ever evolving imprint. An assortment of sensual cyber jams collaged together by the trio over timezones, birthed in Perth, Australia by Mike Midnight and Roza Terenzi; old friends joined by Helsinki’s visionary songstress Maria Korkeila. A trinity of alchemy blossomed into an audio rendition of exquisite corpse, layers of each entity glistening through amongst a united cosmos; trip hop atmospherics and downtempo drippings. The five track EP reveals a metamorphosis of nostalgia, a foot in the ever present and daydreams of future. A subconscious deep dive into lustful pop, guided by spine tingling vocal fantasies; textural hallucination, harmonic odes to the golden era underground and a flirtation with drum and bass, tribal percussive freakouts and dream tinged lyrics of desire. Pillow talk is a timeless exhibit of esoteric treasures, a portal to a private world of modern enchantment that reveals itself in new ways each listen, music for lovers created by a supergroup of innovators to be digested, shared and cherished.

A1 - The Cartographer JLM Productions opens the EP with an inspiring, uplifting intro leading wonderfully towards an intricate old school atmospheric drum loop, laden with sprightly deep bass tones with crisp, clear hats and cymbals. Luscious, long swaying strings weave their magic on the ears as catchy keys sneak around the movements of a cartographer far from silent, to create a composition which will rightly sit atop your playlist for some time to come. A2 - Fata Morgana Showcasing his diversity in the genre and an immense ability to seamlessly mix old school jungle sensibilities with a modern atmospheric twist, Fata Morgana sees JLM Productions fuse a medley of swirling, enveloping atmospheric pads and a tight two-step breaks to form a collage of inspired vibes which will fit perfectly within a synth wave-style dancefloor set - or a good old throwback jungle mix. AA1 - The Navigator Breaks are on the agenda immediately with The Navigator, bringing forth a myriad of fluid drum samples, filtered and chopped with old school sensibilities shining through. Tense pad work builds the vibe with washes of synths before the breaks switch up, throwing in more surprises to the mix alongside along early 90's jungle inspired melody. We are continually treated with layers of detail and intricacies with FX as the breaks reach their final form. A real treat. AA2 - Aleya Closing out the EP, we see JLM Productions deftly toying with the legendary Apache break, which features heavily in the varied cluster of classic jungle breaks on display. A diverse selection of pads and keys tint the engulfing atmospheric soundscape with a quiet Sci-Fi intensity, developing and evolving towards a stunning breakdown before the breaks return, eventually exhaling towards a fittingly epic outro.

In a union of drum and bass talent at its most authentic, Mako and Seba have joined forces to deliver a long-awaited and highly anticipated collaborative single titled "Brotherhood" and "Stockholm Syndrome." These tracks were initially started when Seba visited Mako in 2019 and showcase the synergy and creative prowess of both artists.

"Brotherhood" sets the tone for this momentous release as Mako and Seba combine their unique styles and sonic signatures to create a track that embodies the essence of Drum & Bass in its purest form. Crushing amen breaks over dystopian themes and chilling Rhodes hooks, this track is constantly moving with its fusion of commanding rhythms, complex arrangement quirks, and grudge-bearing bass work, resulting in a captivating sonic journey that is sure to shatter any jungle sound-system. Topped off with the inspiring mantra of “What is love? One name for it is knowledge."

On the flip side, "Stockholm Syndrome" pays homage to Seba's cherished hometown. The track captures a minimal yet visceral spirit, a catchy hook that's rare for a track with such a haunting theme is backed with stepping beats and macabre break edits, topped with intricate percussion. This track clearly identifies both Mako and Seba's signatures and instantly lets the listener know they're hearing both in fusion, and the heart and soul of both producers' heritage.

Mako and Seba's collaborative single is a testament to their individual artistry and the magic that unfolds when they unite. Their ability to seamlessly blend their distinct styles and push the boundaries of the drum and bass genre, while remaining true to its core values, is evident in every note and beat.

This is a brotherhood we're delighted to witness taking shape.

Opening a new chapter for DNO Records, Pllfry debuts on the label with five raucous halftime tracks that also feature collaborations with two vocalists – NST & Genoveva. The ‘Overexciting’ EP is built around iron-clad percussion and a healthy dose of mangled sonic futurism, but the dominating flavour throughout is big, bold, unadulterated bass.

As might be expected of tracks called ‘Demolition’ and ‘Collapse Of The System’, there’s plenty of damage being dealt; the former’s wrecking ball bassline spins violently as its supporting beats splinter and fall, while the latter’s destructive low-end hacks chunks from its itchy sci-fi soundscape like some psychotic sentient buzzsaw.

There’s room for nuance too, however. The title track is all about contrast, its rumbling bassline winding along like a colossal serpent, while hi-hats chitter, and Macedonian vocalist and producer Genoveva delivers a haunting, silvery vocal that’s cold and alluring in equal measure. And as if the undulating low-end and metallic melody of ‘Water Fire’ weren’t enough to make heads spin, the track features a vocal from South Russian up-and-comer NST that seems to slip and slide at will, pulling the track forward and always remaining just out of reach.

Bonus track ‘Old School’ nods to the golden age of hip-hop, taking a tough boom bap-style beat and scratch samples, but flipping it script with machine glitches and pellets of acid.

Like a collection of missives sent back from a hi-tek future, the ‘Overexciting’ EP serves as a reminder that DNO can’t be pigeonholed, and always stays one step ahead.

Rhythms of postmodern realism at the very bottom of the DNO.

One of the biggest, breakbeat channelling stompers out there, courtesy of the in-demand duo Borai and Denham Audio, finally gets an official release with three fiery remixes via Room Two Recordings. A track that’s ripped through airwaves and club dancefloors alike, ‘Make Me’ has all the hallmarks of a future classic. Doused in Amen breaks, rattling subs, rave stabs and an instantly recognizable mid ‘80s Donna Allen sample. Together the track feels like a long forgotten rave anthem from the ‘90s with its mix of high intensity breaks and soulful vocals. With the original sample cleared, three producers step up to remix this undeniable anthem. First Sheffield’s Big Ang with her Rave To The Grave remix, playing homage to her hometown with a bassline and bleep flavoured rework. Mani Festo then hits hyperspace with his glitched out, jungle warper, before Paul Sirrell closes out proceedings serving up a huge slice of piano house heat.

Sam KDC continues his rekindled relationship with 170 for Omnia - 4 potent and rhythmically diverse meditations doused in mysticism and constructed with layers of meticulously hypnotic motifs.

A master of mood enhancement, The Crypt Master opens the Omnia tale with Indra's Net - a serpentine winding groove wrapped around trademark brooding ambience and pinned to signifying percussion. The Shroud revives the feel Sam explored in Omen Rising, this time set to a throbbing 170-step and layers of dubbed out textures. Metempsychosis again takes a snaking rhythm that writhes around itself peaking and diving and letting out screams of delight, while Rhea's Revenge envelops you in a warm radiant ambience before kicking off into a searing amen lash out.

A1 - Synergy A long-awaited release for seasoned fans of the label familiar with ASC's DJ sets since creating Spatial, Synergy has been requested for release many times and is finally here - and it hasn't aged a bit. A track which lifts you gradually through a true journey of escalating, dynamic atmospheric soundscapes with crisp detailed break patterns that ebb and flow to an intricate collage of synths, keys and vocal hits to an inquisitive melody. A stunning piece which somehow has something new to offer each time you hear it.

A2 - Suspended Animation Conjuring an ethereal feeling with grand atmospheric backdrops reminiscent of early Intense, Suspended Animation is a calming yet suspenseful track which slowly builds with expressive break patterns and minimal kickdrums as subtle basslines rumble below. Long echoing effects and melodies gently nudge the proceedings forward, ASC once again showcasing the diversity of his production toolset.

AA1 - Repetition It's been a while since a pure two-step drum loop has had this much impact - make no mistake - the breaks of Repetition will bore their way into your brain like Pulp Fiction did in the mid 90's with a thumping kickdrum and stabbing snare tweaked to perfection. While the beats drive the track along, a collage of audio texture surrounds them with a signature female vocal sample closing out phrases filled with finely tuned synthwork.

AA2 - Pharaoh Landing with immediate impact and building the mood with a subdued urgency, the Hot Pants breaks of Pharaoh surf the dunes of sound to an abundance of sheer atmosphere as ASC crafts a stunningly evocative track which is aptly titled, transporting the listener to mystical Egyptian sands, the synths and horns whispering like the echoes of of a bygone era demanding their timely reprise through the medium of Spatial. Epic.

Words by Chris Hayes.

We're excited to welcome Mako back to the label with a followup to his LP 'Death Of A Romantic'.

Primera / Vamos both capture and convey the accomplished and unmistakable Mako sound refined once again for a Samurai Music focused delivery. Primera steps deep with a slicing riff leading into a perfectly honed amen jumpstart, while Vamos recalls echoes of Spirit with a persistent stab attack riding across a characteristically warm and weighty rhythmic bounce.

From Karma Recordings comes their thirteenth EP. Following on from the superb remix of Crystals Blame was asked once again to step to the controls to rework DJ Ande's Be Bold which featured on the Almost There EP which was Karma's fifth release. Blame mentioned that he loved the piano riff so it seemed obvious to ask him to Blame it up !! The results as they always are with Blame are outstanding. Flip the vinyl over and first up is Haunting from DJ KOS which was made some time ago and has had excellent reaction through our social media channels and this seemed a great addition to the release. Now, a Karma Recordings staple DJ Terrace delivers once again with XXL, superb samples and Terrace doing what he does best with the synths. Bound to be another classic to behold…

Returning to our 7” Sseries of old skool rave inspired releases comes the Breaking Saints duo, comprising of Dan Lethal & DeeJay Lok. Here they deliver a hefty, vibes a plenty, breakbeat bomber, known as “Swanning About”. They both take a side each and give it their own mix, Dan’s rolling with a tuff rave ready bleepy mash up killer, whilst Lok steps the tempo up a notch and brings the breaks into an early jungle techno style, with rave stabs and more big ass bass dropping in half way through.

As with the last release, from Justice, in this series, the 7” vinyl looks freaky fresh too, tiger styyyle!

Putting a pigeon amongst the cats we are back with that good shit. An out of step, incidental artifact of peaceful sophistry: YS - Brutal Flower (2 x “12 LP). A no airs and graces piece of cool future-proof ambience. A modern ballad for brave young clubbers, local pubbers, slipstream warriors, and emotional doggers. The distinctive aesthetic hallmarks of YS are all here: slabs of urban flavor from emotional interior; raw data straight from the interface. ‘Untethered’ and ‘Down’ are chopped-up cuts of searching R’n’B - jaded jams of lustful erasure. On the flipside, blunted desire lingers in ‘Fading Memory’. Both hopeful and mourning: this is the lay of the land in Brutal Flowers sharing that rare strain of underground synesthesia best located in dark undercurrents of early Mo Wax. The orchestral ambience of ‘Autumn Ost’ is a potent stupor of end credit cinematics. Coming up for air. It feels young in an ancient sort of way: pure as first snow. And from here in the album unfolds with the patience, tranquility and the expansive poise of a work that is for now and always. Pulsating gently to assured ending with ‘Be Together’ - a flickering skyline, swarming with warm memories. In between there’s flashes of heartbreak reminiscent of Beltran's Ten Days of Blue and Blunt’s Stone Island (‘Look Up’ feels like a sort of spiritual successor to ‘Wake up’), that being said, when push comes to shove it only it ever flirts with its own reality. An aesthetic reflection of a creative process that is delicate and restless. Created in the edges, where long distances, fast cities and global melancholia are wrought large. Burning the midnight oil Berlin-Singapore style: from real to reel. A sentimental exercise of modern faith by old friends. With a nudge and a wink, Brutal Flowers is a (de)coded map of memories wavering with familiar intrigue. Patient listeners and the already initiated will be rewarded on re-visits - as playful & profound as you please, as deep as the heart. The scathe that cuts is clean and deep. There are no sleight of hands to be found in this opus, only hearts are worn on the sleeve here. A hill we’d gladly die on. Pace & luv,

Five years in the game marks a very special milestone for In-Reach Records, a label born from a love of drum & bass music and a passion to share that love with like-minded individuals. What better way to celebrate that milestone than a compilation of the sounds and souls that have fuelled the labels journey so far. The artists behind all nine of IRR’s past releases have combined, along with some important members of the In-Reach family, to create this exquisitely emotive VA album.

Heading up the release is a very serious piece of wax dropping in September 2023. The 12” vinyl exclusive album sampler comprises two tracks that have been causing waves in the scene for some time. Kicking off with Kid Drama’s remix of ‘Another Place’, we have an expert re-work of an already awesome track from Sam Binary and Deviant. The hissing bass joins the drum break half way through the intro while the vocal sample repeats its mantra. As expected, a gear change hits on the drop with the entry of sub bass stabs, which take on an increasingly melodic form as they evolve throughout the track.

The legendary Madcap takes on remix duties for the B-side with his take on Greekboy’s & AKA's ‘The Jungle’, which first aired on LTJ Bukem’s Radio 1 Guest Mix in 2021. The stepping drum break enters from the outset, building atmosphere alongside the pads and vocal cries in preparation for the extremely weighty running baseline.

Droogs is back with more unfettered darkness from chief crew member Overlook. First up, we have ‘Tarot’; harnessing echoes of the St Albans’ amigos and laser pointing their unsettling dread into a burning sink hole of riddim.

Flip over for a metallic stepping lash out, ‘Detour’, with holes punched through the omnipresent fog by staccato bursts of jazz stabs penetrating the Jungle canopy from above.

Lights out.

Hot on the heels of his successful first Rubi Records release, Ashley Tindall, AKA Skeptical, comes with another three-track EP showcasing his evolving and expanding sound. The opener, 'Rhubarb', shows clear influences of fatherhood, with sampled sounds of happy childhood leading into what is possibly Skeptical's deepest track to date. While this is no piece of bland 'intelligent' D&B by any stretch, the build up intro of warm pads that leads into a chilled head-nodder stands a good chance of having you listening with eyes closed, smiling as fond memories wash over you. Next up is the deceptive 'Capsize'. Starting with the strings of an old sea shanty, the track sounds like it will follow the more chilled route of 'Rhubarb', before the introduction of some twisted minimal sonics and trademark 'steppy Skeppy' drums quickly change that notion! The swift addition of a fizzing, rubber-band b-line completes the switch up and you're sailing on far from calm waters. The return of the shanty violins amidst this is inspired, showing that breaking from the expected norm is not just something that this producer isn't shy of doing, but something he does exceptionally well. To round off, Skeptical steps back into more typical sonic territory with a slice of intense D&B minimalism titled 'Foiled'. This deceptively simple-sounding track hides a wealth of meticulously-crafted and perfectly-balanced elements that deliver a somewhat claustrophobic atmosphere that will appeal to lovers of the outer-edges of cutting-edge D&B. Skeptical's new EP promises to be just as successful as his first release, showcasing his unique and evolving sound.

Support: Ben UFO, Joy Orbison, Gilles Pererson, dBridge, Break, DLR, Doc Scott, Mefjus, Kasra, Kings of the Rollers, Alix Perez, Jubei, Dub Phizix, Flight, Tasha, Loxy, Randall, Lens.
Radio Support: BBC Radio 6 Music, Kiss FM, Rinse FM, Kool FM

A1 - Dreamcatcher

A gentle kickoff to the EP sees ASC flex the ethereal side of his compositional range with Dreamcatcher. Bleeps and subtle bongos intro the track before a cymbal-heavy beat rolls into play, urged along by warm 808 basslines. Several samples will trigger the scene veteran's nostalgia glands, and as the Arthur O'Shaughnessy quote proclaims: "We are the music makers, and we are the dreamers of dreams", you cannot help but smile.

A2 - Tranquility

Filtered breakbeats with emphasised kicks begin our journey through Tranquility; a calming piece enriched with luscious synths, glorious pads and echoing vocal samples. ASC takes the listener through a crash course in DJ-friendly classic atmospheric drum & bass, inviting the crowd to take a step back from the chaos of the world and bask in the tranquility of the moment in true Spatial style.

AA1 - Drifting Thru

Remember Demon's Theme? For many it was their introduction to a new world of amen breaks in a birthing jungle / drum & bass landscape, and here ASC pays homage to that break - as well as a certain iconic classic on the Deejay catalog - rewritten impressively with a pure, intensely driven atmosphere and a thumping sub bass to boot as the eerie melody allows this incredible break to take center stage - as it should.

AA2 - Flotation

Closing the EP is Flotation, a building track which fuzes classic breakbeats chopped and punctuated with a slow-burning, gradually intensifying atmosphere. The interplay between breaks, bassline, pads and washing vocals is a delightful experience to behold, the bassline never relenting. Flotation is curiously catchy and will stay long in the memory.

Words by Chris Hayes (Spatial / Red Mist)

Young South Coast UK producer Lyra’s ‘Give It Up 2 Me’ has been a very 2023 entity so far, racking up 170k + streams as an unofficial Soundcloud upload, starting to make an impact on Tik Tok (especially via the L Major remix) whilst being, in 4/4 terms, on the nippier side of things. Rocking along at an unapologetic 160bpm, ‘Give It…’ goes big on energy, and low on musical frills, as the song (a faithful cover of Ojerime’s original) and driving bass/drums combo do all the work for what is a minimal, avant - donk workout. On the remix front, Limoux slows things down with a 135bpm 4/4 mix that feels like it has roots in LDN 2015 style foot shuffling, but with added sense of contemporary punch and reach. Stepping up on an old school / new school junglist front, L Major’s mix takes no prisoners, with his rolling, cut up breaks and big Reese b-line set to cause damage to unsuspecting systems everywhere. Closing proceedings, the Jag Limbo mix doesn’t seem to know if it wants to be Overmono or Giorgio Moroder, is in reality neither, and arguably none the worse for it.

Ravetrx is back on Sherelle & NAINA’s Hooversound imprint, and it’s a real headturner. If the UK artist’s first contribution to the label was unapologetically ‘90s-facing, ‘14 Down The Dip’ is practically legging it back into a muddy field somewhere along the UK’s growing network of motorways. One thing’s for sure—we’re gonna be here all night.

Ravetrx sets the stage with sounds of a single airhorn and distant crowd before launching into a pounding groove. The title track snapshots a rave well underway: fresh off the M1 and checking out the usual suspects: speedfreaks stepping to white-noise kicks, teens screwfacing to rascally rave synths, and someone swaying wide-eyed to those happy hardcore piano lines.

‘Ruff Enuff Stuff’ goes out to the system heads, rolling the EP into jungle tekno via Patois vocals, crisp breaks and subs. But don’t be fooled by these warmer frequencies—on the flip, Ravetrx jumps back into rave mayhem with ‘On A Mission’, amens going head to head with a snarling bassline. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any heavier, Hooversound label-mate Nova Cheq finishes up the EP with a merciless gabber rework of ‘On A Mission’, sizzling with twitchy acid that’ll speak to the restless and underslept.

An essential cop for the hardcore junglists out there!

After the release of 'Right Here' in Summer 22, Fava returns with his debut LP "Lifetracks". With plenty of releases and memorable performances under his belt, Fava is taking the next step with this 16 track album.

Fava is a true Sunandbass veteran and family member; always one to bring positive energy and raw entertainment to his sets.

Each of the 16 tracks on "Lifetracks" tells its own story, inspired by Fava's life, the pandemic, politics, nature, and the daily emotional rollercoaster that is life. The album features collaborations with top DJs and producers, offering a musical snapshot of significant moments, places, and relationships that have shaped Fava's journey

Dom (and his Roland s760 sampler) was once described by seminal magazine NME as the “Ridley Scott” of drum and bass. His epic early records helped form the blueprint of the scene today.

Originally releasing on No-U-Turn in 1994 and credited as one of architects of “Tech-step”. Dom was signed by the legendary Moving Shadow label in 1996 where he released 3 solo albums and a plethora of singles becoming their most prolific and influential artist in the history of the label.

Well known for his early alliances with school friends “Optical” and “Matrix”, Dom started his own label DRP (Dom & Roland Productions) in 2006 to collaborate with like-minded artists. Now 15 years in with an enviable roster from “Noisia” to “Amon Tobin” it is now the main home of Dom’s work.

Both of these tracks play to Dom’s epic nature and have been highly requested since they were teased late last year on socials. Fur Coats Knickers and Gold harks back to the 70’s era, with a funktastic intro leading into some heavyweight slap subs. Drive me Crazy again has a 70’s Style intro before a barrage of tearing live drums and warping bass is unleashed.

From a lifetime dedicated to the craft of jungle and breakbeat culture, Yorobi steps up on Sneaker Social Club to deliver her first solo EP. Her prior outing on wax alongside Tim Reaper in 2020 built on years immersed in the scene as a DJ, from her first moves on pirate radio and at underground dances in Amsterdam through to her frequent presence at vital dances like Rupture. She’s worked with the likes of Sun People and dropped heat on labels such as Repertoire, Planet Wax, Parallax and Exit, but now is the time for her to present the full scope of her creative vision across five expansive forays into inventive D&B abstractions, mutant electro and inverted ambient soundscapes.

There are familiar threads detectable in melodic brushstrokes or sharply angled drum edits on these tunes, perhaps calling to mind the most innovative corners of the Logical Progression compilations, a splash of braindance here or a hidden corner of a Photek LP there, but such impressions are juxtaposed with idiosyncratic swerves which make Yorobi’s work entirely her own. Drawing on intensely personal themes through her own rendition of the traditional spiritual ‘Motherless Child’ and indulging her own tangential experiments deconstructing 80s dancehall, reflecting on the limitations of psychology and channeling her inner Aphex, Yorobi runs at the extended play format with an unbound energy which makes for some of the most effervescent, inventive rollers we’ve heard in a long time. If you thought everything that needed to be said in drum & bass had been already expressed through decades of drops, think again.

Throughout her much-lauded career as a DJ and producer, Ciel has worked hard to build community through events and DJ workshops in her home city of Toronto and on a larger scale with podcasts and projects meant to elevate women artists. The title of her latest EP, “All We Have Is Each Other,” reflects her history of mutual support, and in these times when so many of our connections seem broken by the pandemic, it offers a reminder that music still has the power to unite us. Ciel has never been an artist who lets genres define or constrain her, so it seems only fitting that this release lands on Mister Saturday Night Records, a New York City label with a similar ethos. It’s in this refusal to restrict her sound to narrow definitions that something magical happens. This 5-track EP spanning dance floor fillers and home listening pieces builds on a frame of tough footwork-paced kick drums, the skip and swing of 2-step garage, broken house, and slow, meditative beats. Woven throughout are hopeful melodies, dappled with sunlight tones and layered with organic percussion. The connective tissue is a deep feeling of joy and hopefulness in the power of music and collective humanity. When the world goes up in flames, all we have is each other. Music connects us with like-minded communities that both shelter and empower us. With this emotive collection of diverse songs, Ciel reaches out a hand and invites us to be a part of something beautiful and authentic.

Inspiration comes in many forms; the city in which we live, the culture from countries across the globe and our love for TV, film and books.This rings true for FFF as a move from his home of Vlissingen in 98 to Rotterdam, combined with his love for UK sounds and comic books created a unique, outward-looking perspective. The DJ, producer and long term party thrower now turns in a record for Low Battery; so come and see for yourself.

Opening track 'In Toom' launches a satellite straight into deep space, picking up transmissions from an unknown source. The track deploys alien electronics and other-worldly vocal snippets, building a curious and ghostly atmosphere. Bass lures heavy around the mid-way point creating an increasing sense of unease, as unidentifiable objects head straight for earth. The aptly titled 'Desperately Seeking Summer' is a giant leap toward the good times ahead. You can sense its energy in the air; the smell of freshly cut grass, the charcoal from a newly lit BBQ and the coastal breeze on a warm summer's day. Summer is almost here and we could all do with a serotonin boosting elixir.

The B-side opens with 'Voices' as candy-floss vocals topped with xtra sugar taste even better with every play; while ascending basslines and frenetic drums join hands to produce that FFF energy we all know and love. 'Full of Light' provides tranquility at the end of a wild ride, as shimmering synths shine with radiant bliss with the power to transcend "bathed in light and lifted in what I can only call another dimension."

We’re extremely proud to present Leaving Time, a new EP by Christoph de Babalon. The EP has all the menace and grit that the Hamburg-born, Berlin-based producer is known for, but packs a potent, dance-ready punch that breaks new ground. Leaving Time begins with the snarling subs ‘The Upper Hand’, and momentum builds through the panoramic breakbeats of ‘I Trusted You’ and dubwise groove of ‘Steps Into Solitude’ to reach the symphonic release of ‘Got to Let Go’. This record encapsulates everything we love about Christoph’s music – it’s doom-laden, introspective and crafted with intent. In short, it’s CDB on a 140 / fwd tip - fuck the chairs!

After a devastating opening salvo of 19 modernist rave mutations on a double tape pack for Sneaker Social Club, Minder lands on Hypercolour with another 19 cybernetic fever dreams still reeling from the open season NRG of hardcore.

If you need to understand where Minder wants to take you, strap in for the labyrinth narrative of ‘Knotted’, a smudged, 15-minute breakbeat suite barrelling through lurid dystopian street scenes with only a blown-out bass sprite as a guide. Throughout Sanctuary, bass is the constant when all else is chaos. It comes in thick, warped Reese tones on ‘Simulated Hunt’, gets twisted out through angry filters on ‘Popcorn Lover’, comes on wobbly in true 2-step style underneath grimey garage anti-anthem ‘Ard’.

There’s a lot to take in across the spread of Sanctuary. It’s the sound of every rave genre slowly digested over 30-plus years, until the lactic acid metabolises every snare rush, every searing lead line, every chipmunk vocal lick, and everything gets mashed up and spat back out into a gnarly signal chain at the flash point of inspiration. The time taken is key – this is the sound of a life in front of the speaker stack manifesting in something too wild and weird to be derivative. You’ll hear snatches of familiarity thrown into unfamiliar contexts, but for all the detectable lineage, Minder’s sound is unsettling in its originality.

Dislodged ragga jungle techno, muffled hardcore nightmares, hard n’ haggard acid trance, junked up jump up – you could write an essay on the sounds you can spot and the way they’ve been twisted. Aside from the omnipresent low-end, it’s the unflinching honesty of Korron’s repeat appearances on the mic throughout which bring Minder’s disturbing patchwork into focus. For all the futurism attached to these sounds, it’s also caked in a very human filth which can only come from this earth. The roots run deep, and the fruit is rotten, and isn’t that how it should be?

The premier release on Multitone Recordings comes from dreadmaul & No_Name out of Germany. The A side, Hand of Sobek from dreadmaul, is a somber, halftimey, tech step number sprinkled with breaks, pads and cymbals that shimmer through a vast and bleak darkness. The flip, Obscure Prophecies, is a collab between both artists and more of a relentless, techy floor anthem. Each tune being in a bit of a different style from the other, we think this record will satisfy purveyors of various tastes in darker dnb.

Soft Raw is a new label from Danielle – a natural extension of the Bristol-based DJ’s expansive tastes within contemporary club music. Over the past few years the NTS resident has become a leading light in the multifaceted world of modernist techno abstractions, ably balancing soundsystem pressure and propulsive rhythmic intensity with experimental textures and explorative energy variations. Soft Raw seeks to continue that mission with releases which will progress stylistically from one approach to another, taking in exciting, emergent producers unique in their approach but bound together by the idiosyncratic curation of Danielle – a faithful reflection of her proven skill as a selector.

The label launches with a six-track drop from Slacker. Sam Black has been winding up a potent strain of needlepoint techno which leans towards jungle and half-time D&B in its tempo and structure. Across a selection of various releases, Black’s sound has evolved into an accomplished and detailed style which draws on moody atmospheres and advanced engineering in the grand tradition of UK soundsystem music. Across this EP the Slacker sound matches up to the spirit of Soft Raw, balancing fierce kinetic energy with delicacy and finesse and leaving some space for outright ambience. At times he locks into a half-step warm-up mode, while elsewhere the amens creep in for a more pronounced jungle rinse-out.

It’s a strong opening statement for this new label, but crucially this doesn’t spell out the future in absolute terms. True to Danielle’s broad outlook, subsequent releases are set to take in everything from straight up 4/4 and acid to footwork and electro, with a narrative binding each release together according to her internal logic and the tension between soft and raw qualities explored across consistently cutting-edge tracks.

Rhythm Discs! has unearthed the Disco MIX of Sister Candy’s lost gem Keep Bubbling / Version = originally released in 1984 on Raiders Records, the original has been remastered under exclusive licence from Sir Lloyd & Sister Candy. Includes a DJ Sports Remix!

The Snake, Ghost, and Demon reconvene for Samurai Hannya II, a supercharged sequel to the 2019 inaugural collection of Samurai Music's current finest outer edge constructions.

Alongside the established Samurai family of producers, Hannya II ushers in some notable names to the Hannya series in Mako, Eusebeia, and introduces some future ascendants - RDG (with Gaze Ill and Ojeblik), Hoji, & Dailiv.

The cryptic Hannya concept is elevated for Vol II with an exclusive luminous illustration by David Paul Seymour (https://www.instagram.com/davidpaulseymour/) as we step further into our exploration with colours.

The Snake, Ghost, and Demon reconvene for Samurai Hannya II, a supercharged sequel to the 2019 inaugural collection of Samurai Music's current finest outer edge constructions.

Alongside the established Samurai family of producers, Hannya II ushers in some notable names to the Hannya series in Mako, Eusebeia, and introduces some future ascendants - RDG (with Gaze Ill and Ojeblik), Hoji, & Dailiv.

The cryptic Hannya concept is elevated for Vol II with an exclusive luminous illustration by David Paul Seymour (https://www.instagram.com/davidpaulseymour/) as we step further into our exploration with colours.

Samurai Hannya II comes on 3 individual marbled 12"s in Full Artwork Sleeve and Digital.

For our next release, we're thrilled to welcome two new artists to the SNF family. Two of the most ubiquitous names in today's UK jungle circuit, it was only a matter of time before the raucous jungle of Tim Reaper and Dwarde found a home in Shall Not Fade's catalogue.

On End Of The Universe EP, the two join forces to flex their creative muscles, together worth more than the sum of their parts. Whilst the title track is easily imagined in a Sherelle set given its strong pulse and hardcore proclivities, the following two are equally suited to home listening as they are, raving. 'Midnight Sun' takes the focus away from the lower ends and puts it on melody and percussive texture, whilst 'Stretchpants' maintains the focus on building atmosphere with sounds reminiscent of Dat Oven's 'Icy Lake'. Finally, DJ Sofa steps up for the remix duties on the last track. This one is pure DnB, strap in.

Long time supporters of Kniteforce will be well aware of the truly amazing series, Remix Records & Kniteforce presents ‘The Remix’s’, and here we have Part 17! All the records in this series are insanely good and this EP does not disappoint. To start we have the mighty Bay B Kane taking one of Phuture Assassins newer tracks and turning it into an amazing jungle track, using the original vibe and cranking it up to the maximum with a proper early Bay B Kane style. Next is an absolutely mental remix from Heavy Systems Inc. of an already mental track! One of NRG’s most insane tracks gets the rough and raw treatment that HSI is known for, drawing on the underground sound of 1992. The action doesn’t stop on the other side either! The living legend that is Austin takes an already hugely popular track from Sunny & Deck Hussy and absolutely sprinkles it with awesome. This is Austin at his best, and it shows how he has not missed a step in 3 decades of music production. Rounding out this installment is The BradderCase remix of Stu Chapman’s Rude Boy. The duo of BradderCase, aka Paul Bradley and The Lowercase, took this Stu Chapman track and flipped it on its head. Extracting the energy from the original and lighting a fire under it, showing that hardcore can be fun and serious at the same time.

The final chapter in the Rats: Infest series adds a left-field twist. Mike Parker is one of the most important historical Techno artists for us and has recently released two halftime EPs for Donato Dozzy & Neels Spazio Disponibile label which have been some of our favourite releases by another label in the last few years. Once we heard these EPs, we were on the hunt for some Mike Parker music on Samurai.

Mike Parker creates music live on an all-hardware setup and has done so since the mid-'90s. There is not really anyone that sounds like Mike and we're excited to have him on board at Samurai.

Mike has recalibrated his machines and created an all-new halftime sound specifically for this remix of 'Mainliner' and his upcoming EP for Samurai. Slightly more quirky and less dense than his usual approach, the machine pulses wind around a steadfast step. An unexpected, but perfect mood shift to re-imagine the Mainliner sinisterism.

Baby T makes a welcome return to the label following on from her debut EP Portra. This time the versatility of the Baby T sound is on display with a 140 Breakbeat killer re-sculpture of 'The Spell'. Dealing out euphoric vibe peaks with 4/4 punctuations and Reese/break combinations, this one is a guaranteed peaktime dancefloor weapon. We love Baby T!

Having kicked off in Galway and then quickly on to Brisbane, we travel across the pond to Durham, to pick the brains of one dance music’s freshest minds and most exciting talents, Tommy 2000, for the all-encompassing Gtown 003 - ‘2K Musik’.

5 tracks that will travel the length and breadth of your brain; from the epic opener and lead single, ‘Whales’, to the algebraic break sequences of ‘t-2000’, Tommy’s follow up to his debut EP on DJ Haus’ Dance Trax is about as mature a sound you could expect from any artist, let alone an 18 year old just dipping his toes in the water.

‘Whales’ leads the way as an almost orchestral breakbeat builder-style track that reaches its peak gradually and really takes us for a ride as we step into the world of 2K Musik. Following on from that, is the most classically-conventional track of the lot, ‘Baff’. The four to the floor backbone lulls the listener to be sucked into what is an entirely unique club track they’ve never even come close to hearing before. That is then spun on its head entirely when Tommy’s almost bookmark sound comes into play on the title track, ‘2K Musik’. Hammering us with breaks and unapologetic bass, this marriage of old school sounds with entirely dynamic arrangement and all around ingenuity tells us exactly what 2K Musik is all about.

We swap over to the B side then, without much of a break for air, and kick off with the ever-nautically themed ‘Tuna’. At this point, it’s more than evident that Tommy 2000 is entirely worthy of his placement as an artist that’s here to stay, as if he’s pulled us underwater to listen to what the sea creatures have to say to us. Totally transforming even more modern sounding breakbeat drum patterns and bending them to his will, Gtown003 is almost like a portal into the mind of a music genius, not just an EP you sit down and listen to; this is an immersive exhibition into the world of Tommy 2000. The final stop on the line is ‘t-2000’. You want to stop and get off, but you can’t. Everytime you think you’ve got this track figured out, you haven’t. Snares coming crashing down and attacking the breaks just as you’ve began to comprehend the synthlines and pads that eb and flow off of each other as this crescendo takes us home and back to reality, as the needle lifts on what is only the beginning for one of dance music’s brightest stars on one of its realest labels.

Gtown003 - 2K MusiK by Tommy 2000 lands on G Town Records on June 24th. Are you Ready?

Tripped has been producing hard Industrial electronic music for over 17 years. Releasing a ton of quality EPs and 12" records ranging from full force terror to slow industrial techno. Always pushing forward perfecting his unique signature sound no matter what style or BPM range. Now after 17 years we are super excited to be able to present his first ever full length album, on Prspct recordings. Unboxed by Tripped is a 3 x 12" vinyl album consisting of 13 tracks that take the listener on one giant musical journey passing all corners of the Tripped galaxy. From experimental noisy industrial tracks like "Pain" & "909". To speeding up the pace on a track like "Fartbox" while throwing in some heavy pounding schranz on "Shinyuku Heat". Bringing back the oldschool vibes on "Misfits" together with ISR legend Lenny Dee and than going full force hardcore/breakcore war mode on "Kapsalon". This album just keeps the listener moving, never a dull moment, pure adrenaline & excitement. Here at Prspct we gave Unboxed by Tripped a 5 star rating on Yelp. It's simply that F-ing good! Now go buy the record or spend the rest of your life full of regret. Trust us. You don't want that.

This is a very collectable EP within the breakbeat/hardcore scene with copies changing hands in excess of £350.00. Written by London born Mixmaster Max whose first step into public life was that of a breakdancer in the early 80’s when he was just a kid with a crew called The Back Street Warriors, showcasing his talents at the infamous Covent Garden jams of the same era. He then got into DJing and scratching and entered the DMC Championships and is credited as the inventor of the Topsy Turvey – stacking turntables on top of each other for a DJ routine!

As like many DJ’s around the late 80’s in London he gravitated out of hip hop and into the rave culture and from here he started to perform at many events such as Fantazia, The Pirate Club, Turnmills and the Hacienda in Manchester as well as a residency on a Friday night alongside John Saunderson - the General Manager of DMC - at Camden Palace. From his club work he started to play on the London pirates Kool FM and Centreforce and on legal stations Peoples Choice and Avenues FM.

These tracks are precursors to the soon to blossom jungle scene and highlight Max’s musical history with his creative sample play. You won’t find much more authentic hardcore than this EP, which really highlights the sound of London back in 1993.

Much deserved, remastered reissue of ‘We Are I.E.’ by Lennie De Ice, arguably the first proto jungle tune, now coming correct with fresh remixes from Solo & Blades alongside Borai, as well as the sought-after Horsepower Productions remix. Released in 1991 on I.E. Records, an imprint based out of De Underground Records, a store in London’s Forest Gate run by Mike De Underground alongside Uncle 22 and Randall, it famously featured elements that paved the way for the Jungle sound. Centered around the Amen break, ragga style basslines, vinyl spinbacks and gun shot samples, it stood out as something different back in ’91, A certified classic, rinsed on dancefloors everywhere and anywhere, from back in the day to the present. Solo & Blades are the first of the new versions, hitting hard with a heavyweight jungle remix, as Borai steps up with a beefy bassline rework. Horsepower Productions killer and sought after remix rounds off the package.

Introducing Cutcross, created to champion the melting pot of bass-centric sounds teetering around 140 bpm. Heading up the concept is Sicaria Sound, a DJ duo who since their inception set out to explore and expand on the possibilities of these sounds whilst spotlighting underground artists. Cutcross is therefore their next step in supporting the forward-thinking music that they've drawn for when curating sets.

For Cxt005 we've curated another compilation EP - "With The Sonant" - stitching together a collectively hazy set of tracks yet each with their own vocal deviations. Epoch's long coveted "2-Door Subaru" is the explosive opener, followed by two distinct approaches to trappier terrains via Woven Thorn's "Loveless" and "Try Me" by zns before descending into the dub-diving murky waters of Soukah's "Don't Care".

The latest from Burnski's Vivid label is a three way split, six track affair with Oldboy, Xander and Longeez each dispatching a pair of tunes in the label's trademark roughneck breakbeat style. - Oldboy kicks off proceedings with the speedy junglisms of 'Blackbird' before the chunkier, funkier and a little more traditionally paced breaks heft of 'Walrus Party'. Xander's 'If I Tell EM' and 'Get To The Point' both plays off two step rhythmic twists and menacing bass against dreamy synths and more breakbeaty flourishes, before Longeez closes proceedings with the slightly sparser 'Evermore' - super sharp hi hats and echoing rasta dialogue - and the appropriately spinback-peppered 'Wheel Up'.

The Evolution EP sees the return of BCee & Kubiks for their first collaborative release in over 10 years. Title track The Evolution features Hospital Records own Degs on vocals with his unmistakable signature style. Always Been You features one of BCee’s favourite vocalists to work with, the legendary Lucy Kitchen, who has also featured on tracks with Technimatic, Gerra & Stone & Dexcell. A new name to drum & bass, Rebekah Fitch steps up for her first vocal feature in the genre and delivers a precision performance. Wrapping up the EP, Remain Nameless is a nod to the classic liquid roller sound that BCee & Kubiks first brought us back in 2001.

"As one of the instigators of the UK 2-Step sound that paved the way for the seminal movements in Dubstep and Grime, Zed Bias, aka Maddslinky, is a true pioneer and stands as one the Godfathers of the UK Bass scene. With a prolific career spanning more than two decades, we’re honoured to welcome him into the Unchained family with his debut release on the label. His powerful 4-track EP echoes both cutting edge modern electronic as well as the nostalgia of UK dance history. All tracks wander into upper BPM territory and sonically span very wide ground; whether this be “Beijing”, a track sure to carve itself a place in classic anthem history; or “Doen�a Tropical”, a tune which draws new broken-beat boundaries around the 160bpm ethos. Two tracks feature collaborations with Strategy and Bugz In the Attic’s G Force - both music defining legends in their own right. Spanning both the Drum’N’Bass universe and thought-provoking left-field bass, we hope this fresh release has you covered from club to couch."

Fresh from her collaboration with Collette Warren, Riya returns to Spearhead Records with the Blame EP. Will Hine (aka Hospital Records artist Whiney) steps up on production duty on all four tracks (plus a little help from Emba on Descend).

Atlanta’s The Masamune presents his debut 12″ release on Ohm Resistance – 4 absolute dancefloor controllers, with a special guest appearance from DJ Hidden on remix duties. This self-titled EP is aimed squarely at the next generation of Drum & Bass DJs and listeners, competing for the top step on the production podium. A direct representation of the storied Drum & Bass history of the label, The Masamune wires together his signature traditional symphonic strings and orchestral elements with the hardest hitting modern dancefloor sound. His beats range from half time punishers, in his signature Neuro-hop style, to running and rolling steppers, with a strong hip hop/b-boy influence appearing throughout his produdctions. According to The Masamune: “This project was made almost specifically to serve as a prelude to the full length LP I’m currently writing for Ohm Resistance.” The EP showcases the numerous talents of the artist, as well as crucial amplifications from his collaborators. Including Jakob Klug on artwork (previously work includes Black Sun Empire and The Outside Agency) and The Netherland’s legendary DJ Hidden, who has remixed the closing track – Doomslayer. The Masamune comments: “I consider DJ Hidden a pioneer and an early influence of mine. He was gracious enough to lend his talents on the remix of my 2018 track “Doomslayer”. The Masamune is a multi-genre producer, remixer, & live act from Atlanta, GA. A composer and sound designer known for his niche style of blending orchestral elements into the chaotic palettes of hard drums and heavy synths, his tracks explore dark themes and deliver punishing consistency. A top-flight production ethic combines with rich exploration of the dark side of Drum & Bass, his works are an automatic dancefloor uplifter in the hands of skilled DJs. He has released on Harder & Louder, Mindocracy, Smackdown Recordings, and was a participant in the Ohm Resistance 7″ series, as well as an annual contributor to the Perihelion compilation series.

The DC based duo Ornette Hawkins makes a step further into the field of Ardkore dnb with their latest EP, Fantom. This work revolves around reverent but imaginative jungle hinting to the early 90’s UK scene and simultaneously moving forward. Rhythms quaver, overlap and take new harmonious forms creating textual atmospheres and unveiling unexpected sounds with every listen; finding the “missing frequencies” becomes like an addictive game. The EP kicks off with the dystopian scenario depicted in Fantom; a rich track that moves like a stealth creature on an alien territory; sub-zero pads, clinical Photek inspired drum patterns and an eerie sax give way to an incessant building up that feels smooth and rough around the edges all at once. A floaty atmosphere returns with the shimmering waves of the Rhodes keyboards layered on warm synths and dry snares in Fade Away. To sum up the mood is the languid Bitch Is Blue, which is not only for its title, an explicit reference to Miles Davis’ avant jazz masterpiece; firstly the original version, placed somewhere between J Majik’s dextrous breakbeats and the crystalline melodies of LTJ Bukem. To close the EP is the startling remix by the intrepid talent of Tim Reaper, who stretches the track to futuristic rhythms, where our ears play along looking for new sounds.

London based newcomer Bartholomew Kind combines deep emotion with disjointed rhythms on his debut release. Breaks 'N' Pieces Vol.7 opens with the sparse, emotive drum & bass of Memento while Sweetheart follows suit with rolling drum breaks lined with melancholic pads & yearning vocal samples. Sapien Beat takes the tempo down to a 2-step rhythm without compromising on poignancy. Opening the flip, Would You Do That To Me morphs from a halftime dancehall-inspired stepper into tearout jungle. The breaks continue on the UK hardcore influenced Feelz while Get Well Soon is a minimal, atmospheric builder closing the record with a message of hope.

San steps forward with idiosyncratic, textured jungle for the modern era on his debut 12". Anxious and introspective throughout, San's detailed sound design and close control of intricate drum edits clearly mark his pedigree. The jungle alias of a Bristol based techno producer, the San project reflects upon the rave landscape of 2020, and finds it to be a dark place.

‘High Fives & Devil Eyes’ is the brand-new LP forthcoming from SCAR, a duo who’ve spent years dominating the waters of dance music with their formulae of underground, yet accessible drum & bass. Individually and as part of their SCAR project, both Script and Survival have been involved in shaping the genre for decades, helping to sculpt its formative years alongside a range of imprints that have ensured it longevity. For their forthcoming album they’ve once again been welcomed into the fold of Metalheadz, where SCAR have now been exclusively signed after appearing in their catalogue as one of its main staples. Since their first piece of music together, ‘When’, debuted on Metalheadz via the label’s esteemed ‘Platinum Breakz’ series, through to their first SCAR artist LP ‘The Orkyd Project’ in 2016, the pair’s journey has followed the label’s growth and they’ve continued to be supported by its founder Goldie. On first listen to ‘High Fives & Devil Eyes’ it’s instantly clear why they were made such an essential part of such a revered platform, bringing together the historic elements as well as the modern production levels which have enabled them to remain trend setters over the years.

From the sounds of ‘Circle of Trust’, right through to the finely-tuned vocals of Eleanor Higgins on ‘Eternal’, the tastes catered to throughout ‘High Fives & Devil Eyes’ demonstrates why SCAR have been welcomed into the roster of Metalheadz and it’s not just down to their heritage with the imprint. Tracks like ‘State of Delusion’, ‘Stolen Memories’, ‘Can’t Do Anything With It’ and ‘Nothing Lasts Forever’ show how SCAR still bridge the gap between contemporary standards and an understanding of their roots, as well as how this has influenced their current direction. Coming up next, ‘Funk Control’ injects much needed soul into the drum & bass sphere whilst tracks like ‘First Sound’, ‘The Seeker’, ‘Thinking out Loud’ and ‘Pauline’ continue the journey of breaks and immersive soundscapes. The album’s title-record ‘High Fives and Devil Eyes’ encompasses the album’s rawness whilst cuts like ‘Deep South’ and ‘Torn Apart’ pedestals the diversity demonstrated throughout. Even the LP’s interlude ‘Nomad’ travels the listener through an elaborate composition, and you’re left understanding that ‘High Fives & Devil Eyes’ is a listening album too, despite how well it’ll translate within any club setting.

‘High Fives & Devil Eyes’ doesn’t just signpost another huge step forward for SCAR musically, but also for Metalheadz. They’ve added two more members to their pivotal roster and it’s another album to highlight the label’s consistency, something which has pushed forward from their beginnings in 1994.

Known for his dub excursions on labels such as Dub Stuy, Zam Zam Sounds and Moonshine Recordings, Bukkha steps out under his Preacha moniker once again for NICE UP! with a deep, dark and brooding grime and trap influenced track. What started out initially as a remix project for another artist soon turned into a track of its own when badman MC and poet Rider Shafique stepped up on vocals, going deep on the subject of what drives us in his own inimitable style.

Phase steps up for his first solo Metalheadz release after previously appearing on the label alongside Villem for ‘The Traveller EP’ in 2016. The young Belgian shows off his skills across 4 tracks (one of them a collaboration with Zero T) on the ‘Stakes EP’, displaying a mature and accomplished sound that not only fits in but also stands out in the Metalheadz catalogue.