New releases this week: All genres

Notes: Use familiar gestures to easily animate the sound of your favourite hardware and software synths.

Push your favourite synths further

Press Touche to activate a filter on your hardware synth or gently bow Touche's plate to add arpeggiator action to your favourite software synth. These are 2 examples of the many possibilities Touche can interact with your gear. This standalone MIDI controller simply translates your gestures into data (MIDI, CV or USB). Touche precisely allows you to modulate any sound, from the subtlest brush to the wildest strike.

Sturdy & precise

Touche boasts a solid monoblock design with few replaceable moving parts, equipped to translate anything from the softest touch to the roughest rhythms, with pinpoint precision.

Universally compatible

Touche is compatible with any software or hardware synthesizer thanks to its built-in CV, MIDI and USB outputs. Internal memory even lets you control hardware synths without a computer.

Ready to use

Touche can control all your favourite third-party software instruments too. Pre-made mappings for all best-selling VST instruments, as well as hardware instruments, are included.

Sounds included

Touche ships with UVI Workstation, a plug-in providing over 250 custom-designed instrument sounds. These sounds come pre-mapped with Touche so you can focus on producing.

A new, tactile playing experience

Touche bypasses the traditional limitations of most synths' and MIDI controllers' keybeds, seamlessly connecting your gestures to sound. Less programming, less automation, more creativity!

4 degrees of freedom

Each direction on the control surface affects different parameters. Combine movements for amazing effects.

Capturing precision

Touche captures your movements with pinpoint precision. Record incredible performances in real time.

Get percussive

Tap your melodies rhythmically, creating percussive tones unique to the Touche family.

Hands down

Discover new ways to articulate your sounds with your keyboard and Touche working in harmony.

A powerful companion software

Meet Lie, Touche SE's control centre and companion software. Lie allows you to:

Browse easily the included sound library (+250 presets)
Host any third party plug-in and map it to Touche and Touche SE
Create mappings for hardware gear in a blink (Touche only)
Adjust Touche's sensitivity to your taste

Rediscover your favourite hardware synths

Touche includes more than 250 hardware synthesizer mapping presets - providing instant, ready-mapped control of the factory presets included with most popular synthesizers.

Rediscover your favourite plugins

A beautifully engineered hardware instrument, able to translate anything from the softest touch to the roughest rhythms, with pinpoint precision.

Extraordinary sounds included

Touche comes with a professionally-designed sound library, so you can start exploring right after installation. Explore ripping basses, soaring leads, evocative pads and pounding percussion, all pre-mapped to take full advantage of the hardware.

Expand your soundscape with Touches expansions and instruments plugins

Need more sounds? Expansions and instrument plugins are an ideal playground for Touche. Discover a whole new universe of sounds and playing articulations, fully compatible with Touche and its software companion, Lie.

Touch plate

We are all different, and your Touche can be different too. You can fully perfect your Touche's response with adjustable controls, and you can even customise its appearance with our range of alternative touch plate finishes, available separately.

Cylinder

The cylinder is the heart of the Touche - it controls exactly how your Touche reacts to pressure. The 'Shore 40 Pink Cylinder' is the classic all-rounder and is included with Touche. It's suited for a wide range of gestures, soft or hard, progressive or percussive. But for those interested in a softer or harder response, we have a range of other cylinders to try.

No computer required

Touche can operate completely standalone, controlling MIDI and CV hardware without a computer connected. Pre-prepare your perfect control mappings and select and recall them live onstage - Touche is the perfect companion for adding expression to your live rig.

Touche

USB: USB Powered
MIDI in: 1/8" (3.5mm) jack socket
MIDI out: 1/8" (3.5mm) jack socket
CV: 4 x 1/8" (3.5mm), up to -10V to 10V
Axe: 4 axes with customizable sensitivity
Lie: Lie: macOS 10.11 and higher / Windows 10, VST / AU format, hosts VST instruments only
Dimensions: 9.7" x 3.9" x 2.4" / 246 x 100 x 62 mm

Box content:
Touche
1x USB Cable
2x MIDI break-out cable (jack to DIN)
1x Ground Loop Adapter

Notes: Cover to protect your Exquis from dust and splashes while keeping your cables plugged in.

Made in the UK by Decksaver.

*** Please note: the Exquis Deluxe is not included, it is shown for demonstration purposes only. ***

Notes: A controller, an app, an instrument.

The Exquis controller gives you immediate access to the rules of harmony to improvise with or without theoretical prerequisites, and offers you dimensions of expressiveness that you can quickly master. In combination with the Exquis app, a unique workflow opens up, allowing you to create an entire song in a few minutes: choose sounds, record loops, play the conductor and structure your songs in complete spontaneity.

Exquis offers an intuitive way to guide you on the right path, while allowing you to get out of it. No hassle: just choose a scale, and follow its luminous path to play in tune. Thanks to our default note layout, it's very easy to make chords; Exquis arranges notes that sound good together next to one another. You will be amazed at how harmony falls under your fingers.

Compared to a piano keyboard, on our note layout the semitones are also arranged horizontally, the harmonious (third) notes are always next to one another, and the intervals starting from any note are always the same. If you prefer, you can change the note layout, and soon even create your own tailored note layout using our editor.

On the default note layout, scales can be simply represented by a pair of light paths; whether you are a beginner, amateur or experienced musician, just follow the colors, with one or two hands, to stay in tune and improvise spontaneously. Explore many scales (major, minor, dorian, oriental...) and soon you will be able to create your own using our editor.

Our default note layout goes back to the basic logic of harmony, putting notes that sound good together (thirds) next to one another vertically. Each type of chord (major, minor, diminished, dominant etc) always forms a single and unique transposable form.

Inspired by the finesse of acoustic instruments, the keys of Exquis are both firm enough to play percussion and short notes with precision, and soft enough to modulate long notes with sensitivity. Tap, press, and tilt multiple keys independently using the MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE) protocol. The encoders (clickable, with infinite and smooth rotation and with a slight resistance) allow you to control the effects of a sound being played, as well as certain essential settings in the various menus.

In order to allow musicians to create new rhythms and moods, the application natively includes exclusive features. For example, we were inspired by the workshops of Jacob Collier and will soon allow the use of tuplets (particular divisions of beats such as 1/5 or 1/7), useful for creating grooves with a drunk effect.

The Exquis keyboard is a MIDI controller compatible with all software, MIDI synthesizers and modular synthesizers. The Exquis app, although optimized for the controller, is also compatible with all MIDI controllers, and like all MIDI controllers, the Exquis keyboard is compatible with most DAWs and plug-ins.

Dear users of modular synthesizers, Exquis connects directly to your favorite devices thanks to the CV outputs: GATE, PITCH and MOD. You can also connect Exquis to your MIDI synthesizers using the MIDI IN and OUT ports.

Notes: Cover to protect your Exquis from dust and splashes while keeping your cables plugged in.

Made in the UK by Decksaver

*** Please note: the Exquis Pure is not included, it is shown for demonstration purposes only. ***

Notes: A user-friendly approach to melody and harmony, the Exquis offers an alternative control method for those who want to break away from conventional keyboards. Compatible with MIDI or CV/gate.

Supplier's notes:
A controller, an app, an instrument.

The Exquis controller gives you immediate access to the rules of harmony to improvise with or without theoretical prerequisites, and offers you dimensions of expressiveness that you can quickly master. In combination with the Exquis app, a unique workflow opens up, allowing you to create an entire song in a few minutes: choose sounds, record loops, play the conductor and structure your songs in complete spontaneity.

Exquis offers an intuitive way to guide you on the right path, while allowing you to get out of it. No hassle: just choose a scale, and follow its luminous path to play in tune. Thanks to our default note layout, it's very easy to make chords; Exquis arranges notes that sound good together next to one another. You will be amazed at how harmony falls under your fingers.

Compared to a piano keyboard, on our note layout the semitones are also arranged horizontally, the harmonious (third) notes are always next to one another, and the intervals starting from any note are always the same. If you prefer, you can change the note layout, and soon even create your own tailored note layout using our editor.

On the default note layout, scales can be simply represented by a pair of light paths; whether you are a beginner, amateur or experienced musician, just follow the colors, with one or two hands, to stay in tune and improvise spontaneously. Explore many scales (major, minor, dorian, oriental...) and soon you will be able to create your own using our editor.

Our default note layout goes back to the basic logic of harmony, putting notes that sound good together (thirds) next to one another vertically. Each type of chord (major, minor, diminished, dominant etc) always forms a single and unique transposable form.

Inspired by the finesse of acoustic instruments, the keys of Exquis are both firm enough to play percussion and short notes with precision, and soft enough to modulate long notes with sensitivity. Tap, press, and tilt multiple keys independently using the MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE) protocol. The encoders (clickable, with infinite and smooth rotation and with a slight resistance) allow you to control the effects of a sound being played, as well as certain essential settings in the various menus.

In order to allow musicians to create new rhythms and moods, the application natively includes exclusive features. For example, we were inspired by the workshops of Jacob Collier and will soon allow the use of tuplets (particular divisions of beats such as 1/5 or 1/7), useful for creating grooves with a drunk effect.

The Exquis keyboard is a MIDI controller compatible with all software, MIDI synthesizers and modular synthesizers. The Exquis app, although optimized for the controller, is also compatible with all MIDI controllers, and like all MIDI controllers, the Exquis keyboard is compatible with most DAWs and plug-ins.

Dear users of modular synthesizers, Exquis connects directly to your favorite devices thanks to the CV outputs: GATE, PITCH and MOD. You can also connect Exquis to your MIDI synthesizers using the MIDI IN and OUT ports.

Notes: Desktop-Friendly Multi-Functional MIDI Controller

Maximize your favourite DAW with the NTK-37's dedicated control integration. This controller offers intuitive handling of popular DAWs like Cubase, Logic Pro, and Pro Tools through Mackie, Hui, and CC protocols, providing essential mixer, transport, and control functions at your fingertips.

When you're on the go and need to complete work quickly, the NTK-37 is your ideal companion. Its streamlined controls give you instant access to the most critical elements of your projects and sounds, simplifying complex tasks so you can work efficiently, no matter where you are.

Integrated Transport Controls

The NTK-37 comes equipped with an integrated transport control module, featuring essential functions like loop, stop, start, record, rewind, fast forward, read, and write. These frequently used transport controls, paired with 9 faders, allow for quick management of your DAW's core features, making the arrangement process more convenient and efficient.

The NTK-37 also includes a mouse control pad, allowing you to customize each fader's function via the NTK Editor software. With the five-way selector and mouse pad, you can achieve precise control over your projects and sounds, giving you total command of your music production setup.

Feature-Rich Compact Keyboard

The NTK-37 offers quick USB-powered connectivity, making it easy to control any music production setup. Its velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch allow you to choose from three different velocity curves, helping you find the perfect key-to-sound mapping for your style. The scale and arpeggiator functions can be used to control both hardware and live performance setups.

Specifications

- Keys: 37 full-size semi-weighted velocity-sensitive keys
- Sliders: 9 sliders
- Functions: Aftertouch, Arpeggiator (7 Types), Smart Scales (16 Scales), Key Touch Curves (5 Types), Key Touch can be Fixed 64 or Fixed 127
- DAW Controls: Play, Record, Stop, Rewind, Loop, Fast-Forward, Read and Write automation envelope
- Performance Controls: Pitch Bend Wheel, Modulation Wheel
- DAW Presets: 8+1 (User)
- User Scenes: 16 Scenes
- Weight: 4.0 kg (8.0 lbs)
- Dimensions: 29.3" x 8.3" x 2.8"

Notes: Top Choice for Music Creators and Producers

The NUX TRACK KEYBOARD 49 is a versatile 49-key USB-powered MIDI controller designed to provide seamless integration with your DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) and virtual instruments. With its hassle-free connectivity, stylish design, and intuitive controls, this MIDI keyboard enhances your music production workflow, making it the perfect choice for both beginners and professionals.

Advanced Features for Creative Control

Equipped with a weighted keyboard and aftertouch, the NTK-49 adapts to various virtual instruments, allowing you to trigger different effects with precision. Its integrated faders and knobs provide real-time control over multiple MIDI CC parameters, enabling you to save custom presets and quickly edit template projects. Whether you're composing, recording, or performing, the NTK-49 offers all the tools you need to bring your music to life.

Innovative Design for Inspired Music Production

With a modern design that prioritizes ease of use, the NTK-49 not only facilitates project navigation and performance but also inspires creativity. The built-in arpeggiator and scale functions help you create intricate melodies, unique rhythms, and dynamic chord progressions. This MIDI controller is designed to spark new ideas and take your music production to the next level.

Comprehensive Software Integration and Customization

The NTK-49 is more than just a MIDI controller. It comes bundled with Cubase 13 LE, an industry-standard DAW, and the NUX NTK Editor software for complete control customization. These tools allow you to precisely map each control to suit your specific workflow, making it easier to produce high-quality music.

Supporting up to 8 different DAWs with quick control capabilities, the NTK-49 gives you the flexibility to define faders and knobs to transmit distinct MIDI signals, allowing simultaneous control over your DAW and virtual instruments. This feature streamlines your creative process, whether you're composing, mixing, or mastering.

Unique Built-In Mouse Control Pad for Seamless Workflow

One of the standout features of the NTK-49 is its unique mouse control pad, which integrates directly into the keyboard. This innovation allows you to easily navigate projects, select tracks, and adjust plugin effects without needing to switch between devices. The keyboard's five-way encoder further enhances your workflow by enabling zoom, track selection, and cursor alignment-all from the convenience of your MIDI controller.

Specifications

- Keys: 49 full-size semi-weighted velocity-sensitive keys

- Knobs: 8 knobs

- Sliders: 9 sliders

- Functions: Aftertouch, Arpeggiator (7 Types), Smart Scales (16 Scales), Key Touch Curves (9 Types), Key Touch can be Fixed 64 or Fixed 127

- DAW Controls: Play, Record, Stop, Rewind, Loop, Fast-Forward, Read and Write automation envelope

- Performance Controls: Pitch Bend Wheel, Modulation Wheel

- DAW Presets: 8+1 (User)

- User Scenes: 16 Scenes

- Weight: 5.0 kg (11.0 lbs)

- Dimensions: 35.8" x 8.3" x 2.9"

Notes: Professional Experience at Your Fingertips

Experience the ultimate in music creation with the NUX Track Keyboard 61, a state-of-the-art MIDI controller. Powered via USB-C, this all-in-one controller integrates a mixer, velocity-sensitive drum pads, and expertly mapped 61 keys, ensuring seamless creation whether you're at home or on the go. It's a true creativity hub!

Designed with input from artists worldwide, its layout is tailored for music production, making your workflow smoother and more focused.

Seamless DAW Integration

Bundled with Cubase LE, the NTK-61 effortlessly maps to most DAW software, offering quick and automatic matching. This ensures perfect harmony between the physical controller and your digital audio workstation, including faders, signal transmission, and channel or pan controls. Simply select your preferred DAW on the device, follow the setup guide, and enjoy instant compatibility with various VST instruments for real-time creation and mixing.

Intuitive Control Features

Enhance your production efficiency with the built-in mouse trackpad, ideal for both stage performances and studio compositions. Essential features like note repeat and an arpeggiator cater to popular music styles, including pop, hip-hop, and electronic. The onboard MIDI mode allows quick CC controller matching between hardware and virtual instruments, with customizable layouts that you can save and recall as needed.

Total Control, Infinite Possibilities

The lightweight NTK-61 is equipped with semi-weighted keys with touch curve options for a satisfying touch and creative inspiration. Its Aftertouch feature lets you link any desired sound effect (EXP, MOD, PITCH, etc.) to the aftertouch response, enhancing the authenticity and dynamic range of your sound creation.
Versatile Performance and Quick Presets

Switch instruments effortlessly between drum pads and keyboard with channel changes, enabling dual-hand control of two VST instruments. Utilize the NUX NTK Editor software for rapid device preset management, or download supported preset files for quick control of various DAWs and virtual instruments.

Specifications
- Keys: 61 full-size semi-weighted velocity-sensitive keys
- Pads: 8 velocity-sensitive pads (Bank A/B Button for expansion to 16 pads)
- Knobs: 8 knobs
- Sliders: 9 sliders
- Functions: Aftertouch, Arpeggiator (7 Types), Smart Scales (16 Scales), Key Touch Curves (9 Types), Key Touch can be Fixed 64 or Fixed 127
- DAW Controls: Play, Record, Stop, Rewind, Loop, Fast-Forward, Read and Write automation envelope
- Performance Controls: Pitch Bend Wheel, Modulation Wheel
- DAW Presets: 8+1 (User)
- User Scenes: 16 Scenes
- Weight: 5.5 kg (12.0 lbs)
- Dimensions: 42.3" x 8.3" x 2.9"

Review: This is another reissue of a record that remains an ongoing favourite. Original Gravity delivered again with the original pressing featuring two unique versions of 'Burning Spear'. Nestor Alvarez opens with a lively, Latin-inspired rendition filled with fluttering flute melodies, raw drum beats and vibrant dancing keys that radiate sunny energy. On the flip, La Machine D'Argent takes a more cosmic approach, smoothing the vibe and layering spaced-out sounds for a dreamy, immersive journey. This release showcases Original Gravity's knack for reimagining funk with flair by offering two distinct yet equally good takes on a timeless groove.

Review: Amami's 'Wrong Way' is a dub-infused track that exemplifies the genre's rich, immersive qualities. The song opens with a deep, resonant bassline that anchors the composition, while subtle percussion elements add a rhythmic complexity. The dub version on the B-side further enhances the track's atmospheric depth, offering a more stripped-back interpretation that allows the intricate soundscapes to emerge more prominently. The release underscores Amami's adeptness at blending traditional dub elements with contemporary production techniques, resulting in a track that is both rooted in the genre's history and forward-thinking in its execution.

Review: The late Susumu Yokota's deep, linear, heady take on techno as Anima Mundi gets a reissue with remixes to boot. The title track of this eighth outing from Cosmic Soup is 'Hebula' and is the sort of grinding, unrelenting pumper that is subtle but high impact, especially mentally. It is also the perfect track for the remixers to tackle: first is Dax J who ups the ante with rugged percussive patterns then Japanese maestro Wata Igarashi adds two versions. One is an organic and heady affair with sustained pads and jumbled toms, the other is a psychedelic and colourful head melter

Review: Another Channel's collaboration with Prince Morella on Freund Der Familie Records delivers a stunning dive into deep dub. 'Brother Love' blends a vintage dub aesthetic with a spiritual spoken-word message from Morella, creating a deeply immersive atmosphere. The production masterfully balances warm, chord-focused techno elements with the timeless depth of dub rhythms, resulting in a track that feels both classic and forward-thinking. On the flip side, the instrumental version strips away the vocals, letting the dub-infused textures and hypnotic beats take center stage. The absence of the message emphasises the track's spacious production and rhythmic pulse, making it a perfect tool for introspective listening or adventurous DJ sets. A stellar release that showcases the synergy between dub's roots and techno's evolution.

Review: As the Darker Shades Of Roots label hurtles towards its 50th release, it turns to the fine pairing of Ash & Willow. This fledgling outfit debuted in 2016 but has been slow to release. Last year was a busy one with a trio of new 7"s that are now finally arriving to us. 'The Heart Of All Men' opens up this one with slow-motion rhythms and some organic percussion that adds the detail. On the flip, the ice picks up a little and the sun shines down bright over meandering leads on The Shades's 'Revelation 21.'

Review: Darker Shades Of Roots explores just that and has done so expertly over the course of a half-century of releases to date. The New Year starts off for them with another tasteful two-tracker that pairs a couple of contemporary artists. Ash & Willow are up first and offer 'I & I Stand' which has classic melodica leads worked into a tight rhythm that's detailed with earthy guitar riffs and lush chords, and of course some fine mic work. The Shades's 'Brother Sun, Sister Moon' then comes through with more whimsical melodica sounds and moodier vocals.

Review: Ash & Willow have music in their catalogue as far back as 2016, but very little since. last year proved to be a busy one with not one but three new singles produced. They all come on the Darker Shades Of Roots label and are available with us now. This one features all their signature styles - authentic, organic reggae rhythms with conscious lyrics and melodies that linger long in your mind. 'Challenge Yourself' is a fine example of that here and on the flip is The Shades with the instrumental dub 'Grow More Loving'.

Review: Edinburgh's Neptune Discs bring crazed happy-acid hard trance come progressive disco to the fold, welcoming four fresh faces to their roster in so doing. Biodive, Astro, Dylan Forbes and Glen S all work impressive atmosses and well-integrated pad flavours around primal progressions, centring on a unified vibe of tunnelling rave intensity. The tone quietens on 'Tranquility', an emanative favourite of ours, whose pulsatory lead blurt sounds like a lighthouse through benevolent mist.

Review: An elusive producer, shrouded in mystery, emerges with a fresh batch of irresistible edits. With a knack for crafting infectious grooves and a growing reputation amongst discerning DJs, this anonymous artist is set to ignite dancefloors with their latest offering. Having garnered support from tastemakers like Hunne, CC: Disco and Shanti Celeste, this release is guaranteed to ignite dancefloors and satisfy discerning DJs. 'Forgive Me 1' sets the tone with its irresistible energy, while 'Forgive Me 2' offers a slightly different flavour, maintaining the infectious groove while exploring new sonic territory. Expect a collection of expertly crafted cuts, brimming with energy and primed for peak-time moments. With its limited availability, this a must-have for those seeking to add some heat to their record bags.

Review: The latest EP from Berlin-based DJ and producer Pablo Bozzi shows another step up in his craft. Across the trio of tunes, his talent for creating infectious dancefloor jams shines through with the bouncy basslines, 90s-inspired synths and a piano-driven melody of 'Sunday Rodeo,' first to hook you in. The title track, 'Fantasy,' combines an alluring vocal with powerful kicks and zesty acid accents that constantly fire at your synapse and 'Siempre' is the closer that finds Bozzi deliver a dreamy synthwave journey that is smartly enriched by intimate, distant vocal samples. Although this one has some nostalgic influences, the modern production will really ignite the 'floor.

Review: This is a clear vinyl version, though we also have the black 7", of the latest from Finland's leading jazz label. It's a great return for Bronze, Silver & Brass as they again blend brass, guitar and funky drums for a thrilling fusion of funk, soul and jazz. The A-side delivers fast-paced, cinematic funk reminiscent of 1970s chase scenes and all driven by tight guitar riffs and breakbeat rhythms. On the flip side, 'Brass In Motion' offers a mellow, mid-tempo groove with jazzy undertones and a lyrical, laid-back charm. Together, these tracks showcase the band's knack for infectious, instrumental funk of the highest order.

Review: Talented funk, jazz and soul outfit Bronze, Silver & Brass are back on Finland's finest Timmion Records with a second outing that confirms their top-shelf credentials. This latest high-grade outing opens with 'Renard's Groove which bursts forth and has a speedy, dramatic rhythm driven by tight guitar riffs and breakbeat energy, ll with hints of 1970s cinematic charm. Then comes 'Brass In Motion' which slows the tempo with a smooth, mid-paced jazz-funk groove. It balances its funky vibe with a lyrical, laid-back charm and is another gem from this increasingly essential band.

Review: B2 Recordings does house music deeper than most and for its 16th outing, it is Cabin Luv Affair that steps up with a fresh four-tracker. 'Behind Red Curtains' kicks off and is a nice percussive number that is loose and seductive. 'Palmeiras 93' brings some sunshine, as you might expect from a tune with such a name, and the grovers flow freely and with a happy spirit. 'Look I Told You' heads back indoors for some early evening shapeshifting with nice dusty drums and jazzy chords and 'Not Afraid About This' is a nice vocal number with some hooky pads and a classy sense of soul.

Review: Cignol is known as a master of the "refined machine funk sound", and while the exact determinants of this title aren't 100% exactly sum-uppable in words, we can sure gather what we think is meant by the phrase, judging by this latest 7" release via Unknown To The Unknown. This is a far-reached, sanitary end of electro, whose every element is as salinated as a freshly spritzed and wiped-down control room: on 'Botnet' and 'Suspicion', 808s and acid diphthongs respectively snap and oo-er with the clarity of birdsong in an isolation chamber, while each track gradually builds in structural integrity and intensity as time marches onwards.

Review: There is plenty of experimental work at play int his new various artists' collection on Flash. Cloned Existence sets that tone with the brief synth exploration that is 'Wave 1' when Gael & Jolly take off with the much more punchy and thudding techno of 'Paradigm Shock' which is weird up with all sorts of synth designs, effects and layers of reverb. Under Black Helmet ups the ante further with one of those bulky techno grooves that locks you in the moment and Stigmata then brings big room 90s vibes with layers of tangled synth melting the mind. Florian Meindl brings things to a close with gritty, scraping bass, reverb-heavy kicks and pure warehouse techno heaviness.

Review: Ever-more essential Irish techno talent Doug Cooney shows his credentials here with a great-looking and sounding picture disc. 'Past Existence' blows you away from the off with its high-speed drums and urgent, squealing synth and weighty basslines. 'Darkest Hour' is just as edgy with suspenseful stabs and brutalist drums slamming down hard. 'Determinist' brings a cerebral freak out with its unsettling synths and 'Shukran' closes with a restless spirit and more visceral drums. Dave Clarke has already thrown his considerable musical weight behind these on his legendary White Noise show, as well as dropping 'Darkest Hour' in several live shows. So, if these jams are good enough for 'The Baron', they are good enough for you.

Review: Climactic, psychedelic soul and blues brilliance by Don Covay, co-written by Donny Hathaway and backed by a proto-Balearic sweetmeat on the B, Harvey Mandel's 'Baby Batter'. The A-side was originally released one year after (1972) the B-side (1971) on the American Janus label, and the tracks provide a palpable contrast, drawing on the same idiom yet approaching it with remarkable difference. Covay's lyrics are, thematically, overflowing with determination, despite the psychic conflict at the track's heart. Is there any resolution? "The sweeter you, look, mama... the bitterer you treat me..."

Review: Uppers & Downers tap the raw, yet-to-be fully processed talents of Yerevan's Dave N.A., for a stunningly angelic nu-breaks come jungle come acid outing. Having co-founded his local Armenian ABC Community DJ collective, Dave N.A. attests his non-applicability to the normal, formal rules of dance music, declaring himself diplomatically immune to boring tempi, drab beats or morose melodies. Instead, the likes of 'Radiance', 'XL', and 'AIR' subject us to some of the most riveting soundscapes and shellages imaginable, drawing on a frenetic confluence of rave and hard bass traditional sonics.

Review: Eduardo de La Calle has always excelled at crafting economical yet impactful techno. It is often long and settled in its groove, dubbed out to the max and sprinkled with grainy chords. That simple MO has kept him at the forefront for years and here he hooks up with Reeko to serve up four more tracks of his distinctive techno gold to get 2025 underway on a fine footing. 'Track 1' is a real pressure builder with waves of synth and icy hi-hats washing over you, 'Track 2' then pulls back into murky minimalism and 'Track 3' brings the brain-melting bells. All that leaves is t cast you off into the deepest corners of the cosmos with 'Track 4' full of celestial wonderment.

Review: Exclusive! Over Shadow unleash these two super-hot rarities from around 93/94. Both big tunes on dubplate at the time, especially 'Close Your Eyes' which was a big tune in Fabio's early Speed sets, they finally see the vinyl light of day after all these years. 'Close Your Eyes' is a beautiful atmospheric whirlwind while 'Destroyer VIP' lived up to its name. Still sounding heavier than a helicopter over 30 years later.

Review: The Trails label, as is often the way in so many cases in electronic music, is the natural next step for the party crew of the same name. Having established a sound and a community, they now branch out with music from associated producers all keen to offer up their shared musical visions. First up, the label introduces friend and graphic designer Bogdan N?stase aka DJ Bogdan. Setting a fine tone from the off. the EP explores melancholy, introspection, mystery and hope, all infused with a nostalgic nod to 2000s electro-techno and synth-pop. The A-side opens with 'Shade Detector,' an energetic peak-hour anthem which is followed by the melancholic 'Freakshow Parallax' for after hours. The B-side features 'Videofreex,' a versatile party gem before closer 'Fantana Cartezian?' is a twisted minimal techno homage to Bucharest's lost history.

Review: Way back in 1994, while he was riding high with the stomping, raw and druggy Wild Pitch sound, DJ Pierre released 'What is House Muzik?' as Phuture Scope. This clear vinyl reissue from Get Physical celebrates the track's 30th birthday, accompanying the acid house pioneer's original Wild Pitch mix - a typically stretched-out, Sound Factory-ready concoction with raw loops, weighty beats and bass and fizzing synth stabs - with the original spoken word acapella and two later reworks. The most notable of these is Emmanuele Satie's on-point edit of Ricardo Villalobos's epic 2015 dub, which cuts it down to playable length while retaining the Chilean's wonky and out-there mix of barely audible orchestral samples, crunchy beats, weird noises and spoken word snippets. Throw in Jazzuelle's tidy 'deeper acid' mix and you have an essential reissue.

Review: Mike Dunn is a real house OG. His style has always been to lay down raw as coleslaw drums and prickle them up with synth sounds that are blistering and caustic. He goes right back to his roots here and serves up a trio of cuts From The Beginning which show just that. '43:31' a stripped-back acid sound with a low-key groove, 'Acid Feet (Phaze 1)' is a wonderfully undercooked analogue sound with tinny hits, rickety drums and pulsing synth sounds that take you right back to the earliest house sounds and 'Time Machine' is a minimal drum track.

Review: Dutch label Fontoyard is back and doing what it does best early in this new year, and that is serving up fresh rhythms from some of reggae's best talents. This one is the sound of T Gibbs in collaboration with Empress Ahavah who is responsible for writing the original tune. It is a superb stepping riddim that is perfectly driven by a heavy bassline. Up top, like all the most crucial dub, is a mystical melody that captivates the imagination, and some silky smooth vocals. Flip it over and T Gibbs offers up a nice and tasteful dub that dials things back to the inviting low end.

Review: Fat Night is an indie soul band based in Chicago made up of Dan Hanson, Gabe Gundacker, Ted Issen and Nik Ritchie. Their 'Sun Go Down' is a masterclass in simplicity as genius. A grooving bass, cool guitar riffs, understated drums, tight vocal harmonies and a moody organ weave together to create a tune that builds with effortless coolness and brings some sunshine on even the gloomiest days. Originally featured on Fat Night's 2015 Lazy Days album, it makes its vinyl debut here with 'What Do You Got,' a sweet soul ballad from 2020's Live For Each Other.

Review: Only a hard techno label would be brazen enough to call itself Danger Wank. There is much more worth investigating here though than just the semantics: Fist Of Fury grabs you by the throat with its overdriven percussive loops and flat, slamming drums on 'Minimaythm Demoniae.' It sounds like what happens when you have too many windows open on your computer with sound playing from one that crashes. Al Core brings squealing synths and horrorcore sleaze to '007 Bald Frenchcore' and Celsius tickles the inner war with the abstract sounds and malfunctioning drum patterns of 'L'Appel Du Vide.' Kyo_O's 'Releaser Fucking' gets a brutal LeeloO Hardcoholics remix to close down this serious sonic assault.

Review: Golden Ivy's new transcendent single marks a celebrated return to the label after time spent with other imprints. Rooted in a sample from Sinnenas Dans by Scanian folk legend Ale Moller, the track evolves into a fourth-world masterpiece that layers in flute melodies with synthesised explorations and rather industrial leaning motorik rhythms. With Moller's blessing, the result is both meditative and grand and on the flip, you will find Philipp Otterbach's post-punk dub reinterpretation. it's rich in deep, sculptural and contrasting soundscapes and invites mindful, low-tempo dances that will resonate on all manner of diverse 'floors.

Review: Pow! Here's that quadruple espresso shot you wanted to kickstart your 2025 with. High energy, full tension drummage from Deep Jungle bossman Harmony, each of these cuts is guaranteed to wake you up. 'You Got' smacks hard with heavy hitting break wallops and classic vocal samples, 'You Got It hits with more rolling intensity and more iconic vocal textures while 'Transit' is more of a steppy, Krust-flavoured bumper. Keep it moving.

Review: Tommy Holohan's newest EP is a high-energy tour de force, blending techno, jungle and rave elements. Opening with 'Show Me The Sky', the trance-infused keyboard stabs and massive build-ups create a cinematic techno anthem. The title track, 'Temple Theatre', brings tribal loops, hard-nosed percussion and funky momentum for a relentless dancefloor roller. 'Make Me Feel' dives deep with a rumbling bassline and jungle-inspired drums, enhanced by clever house samples and a commanding vocal drop. Side-2 showcases two mixes of 'Your Lovin Arms'. The Warehouse Mix delivers a heavy rave vibe with raw energy and techno grit, while the Jungle Mix adds a melodic touch with breakbeats, creating a unique fusion of styles. A bold, diverse release, proving Holohan's real knack for blending old-school influences with modern techno innovation.

Review: Released only a year on from Jacidorex's Unfaced, an acid techno tumbler of big proportions, now comes a new V/A sourced from many a peer in the upstart Belgian artist's orbit. First, we've the collaborative 'Midnight Express', a cleanly tenebrous slink through twinkling, bubbling, upstream synths and hypotense builds, before the hardcore-informed 'Krazchen' by Acidus serves to harrow dancefloors worldwide with evil banana slip synths and cavernous kicks. A melodic turn is marked thereafter on the call-to-dance 'Into The Floor' by Ansbro, while Mahtal 'All In This' continues this trend into hardstyle techno, with its especially clever use of pitched-up and resampled kicks.

Review: Igor Jadranin returns with another interstellar EP that redefines genre boundaries. Blending boogie basslines, futuristic synths, vintage drum machines and lush flute, piano and vibraphone melodies, the producer delivers cosmic electro-boogie with a playful edge. Tracks like 'Gangster Electro' bring hard-hitting beats, while remixes from Byron The Aquarius and A Vision of Panorama expand the palette. Byron's haunting 'Midnight' mixes crunch with eerie vibes while Panorama's Nu-Balearic twist adds sunrise warmth to the original. It all adds up to a bold 12" from the much-loved Chicago label.

Review: French producer Jehan is next up on Blur Records with a new EP, TV Screen, that shows that he has a sophisticated approach when it comes to bending free jazz with electronic music and a love of hip-hop. The latter of those is evident in the title of the opener, '92 Till Infinity', which pairs lazy keys with lazier beats and soul drenched vocals. 'Montre Suisse' (feat Donnie Moustaki) has dusty beats that sound like they might fall over themselves topped with warm organ chords and 'You Win' (feat Scruscru & Meowsn) then brings a sweet and swaggering deep house vibe. The flip keeps the slow burning and late night feelings alive with a trio of loved up, well sampled, blissed out beats.

Review: For over 50 years, The Legendary Beyons have captivated Portland with their music and now their work is finally documented in this high-fidelity LP. Accompanied by a detailed oral history and a booklet filled with archival photography, this release serves as a period piece for those unfamiliar with the group. The album features their only surviving 20th-century recordings, showcasing soulful harmonies in tracks like 'Dreaming You In My Mind' and 'There We Were, Here We Are'. This LP offers a deep dive into Portland's Black music history through the lens of The Legendary Beyons.