TURNTABLE LAB

3 Chairs
Spectrum (Moodymann, Theo Parrish, Marcellus Pittman) CD

deep and soulful house from Detroit's finest, first time on CD

Incredible compilation from the Detroit masters. For those that don't know, the Three Chairs is the unfadeable group of Theo Parrish, Kenny Dixon Jr. (aka Moodymann), Rick "The Godson" Wilhite, and Marcellus Pittman. Put these heads together and you're in for some seriously deep and hazy late night excursions into house music of the highest quality. The Spectrum CD collects the best vinyl-only cuts from the Three Chairs back catalog (all of which are out of print and catch dough on original pressing), so if you missed out on them the first time around, here's you're chance to score! All the tracks from the first Three Chairs session circa '97 are present and accounted for plus jams Three Chairs 2 and their releases up to 2006's "No Drum Machine pt. 2" 12". The whole thing is masterful from beginning to end so if you are a fan of the Detroit sound, you better just add to cart already before it sells out ('cause it will). Highly Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster


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Adam Kesher
An Allegory of Chastity (Snack & C'mish Remix) CD

LAB US EXCLUSIVO. Adam Kesher follow up their outstanding debut EP on Disque Primeur with this loaded single, featuring four new tracks and four remixes from all over the place. This EP also marks the remix debut of the Lab's very own Snack & C'mish! "P-Katherine(1)" is hype enough on its own (think Franz Ferdinand, but better), but Snack & C'mish get so funky with it(2) and turn it into an absolute dancefloor bomb. Fine work, dudes. Paris' premier ghettotech DJs, Goon & Koyote, get their hands on Kesher's first single, "Modern Times(3)," and Strip Steve puts down a HEAVY remix of "Irene(4)" - check the original(5), too. Also includes "Let The Earth Rejoice" and the original and Yuksek versions of "Feel You In My Arm." Recommended.
reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red


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Adam Kesher
Modern Times CD

LAB EXCLUSIVO. The long out of print debut EP from Adam Kesher gets a special repressing! This CD sold out immediately upon initial release and these tracks are only found on this EP (no vinyl was ever made). Turntable Lab is the exclusive US distributor of this release - you won't find it anywhere else.

Y'all might remember Adam Kesher's first appearance at the Lab from their rock cover of Para One's rave anthem "Dun-Dudun" on Institubes, but this EP is actually the band's first release from '06. Think post-punk meets electro-rock with a bit of Factory Records. Take a listen and you'll find these French rockers got more going for them than the usual rave-banger sounds that their countrymen have blown up so hard lately. "Modern Times(1)" sets the whole thing off like a flaming kick in the ass. Frantic, fast paced drums, screeching guitars, and nasty low end synths make things real hot and sweaty (it's no wonder this track set off a slew of hype remixes). Next check "160(2)" for more on this driving, high energy tip (really reminds me of Gang Of 4 on this one). "You Make Me Feel Immortal(3)" and "Voyage Interieur(4)" aren't bad either, but feature a more mellowed out melancholy vibe. An impressive debut with 5 tracks total.
reviewed by snackmaster


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Air
Moon Safari: 10th Anniversary Special Edition 2CD+DVD

Super deluxe 10th anniversary edition of AIR's first proper album from '98. You might've listened to this back when it first came out, but it's definitely worth a revisit. I know my ears were a little more biased a decade ago and weren't really in tune with the Frenchies, but in '08 I'm pretty sure we're all much more familiar with the "French Style" and can really appreciate what these dudes were doing. Nicolas and JB (aka AIR) were definitely ahead of their time, combining elements from Burt Bacharach and Serge Gainsbourg, ambient, lounge, new wave, disco and lots of synthesizers, into one unique musical style paving the way for similar-minded artists like Sebastien Tellier. Just take a listen the masterfully crafted chill moods -"La Femme D'Argent(1)," "Talisman(2)," "All I Need(3)," and "Sexy Boy(4)," "Le Voyage De Penelope(5)," and "Remember(6)." The whole album really goes down real easy - it's that smooth. This limited edition set also contains a bonus CD loaded with rarities, remixes, demo versions, and radio sessions as well as a DVD with an hour long documentary on the band entitled "Eating, Sleeping, Waiting and Playing" by none other than Mike Mills. All this in a fancy 12- page hard cover booklet with full liner notes, lyrics, and original artwork. Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster


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Ame
Fabric #42 CD

German electronic duo Ame is the newest addition to Fabric London's ever-expanding roster of star mixers, but this trip through the collections of Frank Wiedemann and Krisitan Beyer probably isn't what you'd expect from the producers of the house sensation "Rej." Jazz, funk, classic house and dub are all on the plate, with tracks, edits and remixes from Henrik Schwarz, LFO vs. Fuse, Jens Zimmerman, Moondog, Minilogue & KAB, Armando, Matthew Styles, and more. The whole mix has a psychedelic undertone but manages to stay up in the energy department as well. Good stuff. Comes in the standard Fabric release metal case. 17 tracks; 72 minutes.
reviewed by Van Hammersly


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Aphex Twin
Classics CD

collection of early - mid nineties techno, includes cult classic Digeridoo

A 1995 collection of early Rephlex and R&S recordings. The opening track, "Digeridoo(1)," was Richard James' first breakthrough and the one that brought attention to this bedroom freak. The story is that some DJ thought it might be novel / weird to put this on during a party and people started dancing bugged out to it. Somehow it caught on from there and became an underground dance hit. Back when this first came out, stuff off these labels was hard as hell to track down. Shit came in bubble wrap, no sticker, sometimes no markings at all. I had my friend, who went on vacation in Europe, hunt down the Digeridoo 12", and he found it in some record shop in France that looked like a cave. I was pretty amazed that he tracked it down, but when I finally got to hear this record, I was confused. It wasn't the dreamy stoned sound on the tracks from Selected Ambient Works, but a harsh, super aggressive sound that got me shook. The sound on this comp is also hard and electronic, kinda like early Detroit, but grittier with more analog warmth. Normally I wouldn't give this style much of a chance, but since it was Aphex Twin, I left it out. I found myself listening to it at strange times for no particular reason and enjoying it for less reason. Heads searching for the dreamy Aphex sound will get a rest with "Polynomial-C(2)" and the classic "Analogue Bubblebath I(3)." If you liked Ambient Works you might like the dichotomy presented here, but if you want to chill you might want to stay away. No bad trips is my motto.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Black Devil Disco Club
Strange New World Of Bernard Fevre CD

lost cosmic masterpiece with new mixes and unreleased material

Before the creation of Black Devil's now mythical Disco Club LP in '78, Bernard Fevre (the man Behind Black Devil) released another lost album entitled Enter the Strange World of Bernard Fevre. Similar to Disco Club, this album was incredibly ahead of its time, utilizing all manner of synths and drum machines to create a world of haunting electronic soundscapes and melodies that seem to withstand the effects of time. This ultra rare LP was released on the cult French Library label IM, and is obviously close to impossible to find. Lucky for us, Lo Recordings has teamed up with Fevre to release new mixes of these lost cuts alongside several previously unheard compositions. The vibe throughout the whole album is much less dance-centric as the afro-italo infused grooves of Disco Club. Enter The Strange World is like the best soundtrack to an epic sci-fi movie that would warp your consciousness to another dimension. Basically this is the best astral travelling, cosmic surfin, drug trippin' music I've heard in awhile. The opener "Dali(1)" sets the pace for the album, a cosmic theme that rides on intense arpgeggio bass laced with delicate melodies that seem to be performed by a space orchestra. The intoxicating "Dangerous Mixture (2)" comes next with sounds reminiscent to Fevre's other works. Tracks like "Stay On Grey(3)" and "Co-Lateral(4)" definitely seem to have a modern edge to them with the tough breakbeats underneath, while "Fantasm(5)" offers a strange funk thats is hard to deny. Also check out the dancey beats of "Polyster(6)" and "Molecule Dance(7)" plus the moody "Subconscient Lamentation(8)." Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster


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Black Moth Super Rainbow
Eating Us CD

psychedelic sounds for fans of Air and Broadcast

Hailing from the woods of western Pennsylvania, Black Moth Super Rainbow delivers an album for lovers of modern psych and prog rock.  While still holding on to their offbeat style and general weirdness, the songs have taken on a decidedly more linear approach.  The record was produced by Dave Fridmann, the former Mercury Rev drummer whose other notable productions include The Flaming Lips, MGMT and Mogwai.  His touch is evident throughout the album having made some space for the swirling psychedelic synth action, gritty drums, dusty vocoder love and overall hazy feel that are BMSR’s trademark.  From the opening track, "Born On A Day The Sun Didn’t Rise(1)," this record totally caught me off guard in the best of ways.  Far from what I was expecting, it hit right where my inner Broadcast and Air appreciation societies were patiently waiting to be sated.  Other standout tracks include "Iron Lemonade(2), Smile The Day After Today(3), The Sticky(4)," and "Tooth Decay(5)." 11 tracks in all, plus 1 hidden track.
reviewed by Michu Meszaros


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Black Strobe
Burn Your Own Church CD

I really haven't heard anything like this since I stopped listening to Swamp Terrorists and Frontline Assembly back in high school. Blackstrobe isn't as hard as those dudes (this has more of an electronic house feel) but this is still a pretty fun listen if you like that user friendly kind of stuff and can't handle the OG industrial sound. Check out: "Blood Shot Eyes(1)" and "Not What You Need(2)." Yeah, I know you're thinking what I am when I say where were Blackstrobe's parents? They totally let their kids listen to too much KMFDM and Killing Joke but all the same we wouldn't have tracks like "Lady 13(3)" would we? "Shining Bright Star(4)" is the lead single track off this album and is basically a reworked Ministry track. Fifty bucks goes to the customer who can guess which one. Get at me. Anyways, spring is here and yes it is ok to wear all black, go to the park, and lurk out while listening to this
reviewed by David Pitts


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Blast Head
Middle Taste Of Codek CD

Way before Codek was releasing In Flagranti records, the label was a key component of the NYC downtempo scene (circa 96 to early 2000). With their early compilation singles featuring Nickodemus, Zeb, and Cosmic Rocker (who later started In Flagranti) and Organic Grooves releases, the label had a strong following... especially in Japan. Enter this Japan-exclusive retrospective mix featuring many of the labels most popular tracks, all lightly mixed by the Japanese duo Blast Head. 18 tracks, over 1 hour.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Blu Jemz
Beat Machine CD - FREE WITH PURCHASE

Free with any physical purchase.
reviewed by the mgmnt

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Carlos Nino & Miguel Atwood-Ferguson
Suite For Ma Dukes (J Dilla Tribute) CD

In one of the most creative J Dilla tributes yet, Carlos Nino & Miguel Atwood Ferguson have re-interpreted Dilla's music in a contemporary chamber music style (yes, classical). Tracks include Dilla tracks "Antiquity(1)" and "Nag Champa(2)," plus covers of Slum Village's "Fall In Love(3)" and Tribe's "Find A Way(4)." Portion of the proceeds go to Dilla's family.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Chico Mann
Analog Drift: Mui...Esniqui CD

limited edition latin funk and afrobeat

Lab Exclusivo! Chico Mann insider Tkat got his paws on some of these hand spray-painted copies of Marcos Garcia's new album which has previously only been available at live shows. Analog Drift is the long-awaited follow up to the 2006 Manifest Tone Vol. 1 album and it does not disappoint. The same foundation of Afrobeat guitar arrangements, Cuban coros, Casio melodies, and Electro drum programming remains, while Garcia's New Jersey (by way of Cuba, Dominican Republic, NYC, and Puerto Rico) roots become more prominent as Freestyle synth lines start to infiltrate the sound and the BPMs begin approaching a place where the Cover Girls and Lisa Lisa start feeling comfy on stage with Fela and Arsenio Rodriguez. Check "Anima(1)," "All That is Rising(2)," and "Ya Yo Se(3)" for the evidence of evolution. I also suggest reclining with a tall Cuba Libre and bumping "Harmonia(4)," "Guardalo(5)," and "Ilusion de Ti(6)" in your best pair of vintage audiophile headphones. The Talking Heads' "Once in a Lifetime(7)" gets re-imagined in a Chico stylee, and solidifies the fact that NOTHING sounds like this right now. Just as Dam Funk is defining the future of West Coast funk and boogie, Chico Mann continues to push the East Coast modern funk movement to a land where Gitmo has been re-opened as an environmentally sustainable youth artist collective in the newly founded Kalakuta Republic of Jersey City. The movement is being supported by Rich Medina, Spinna, Bobbito, and is landing Chico on bills with diverse musical pioneers from Trouble Funk to the Budos Band to Cubic Zirconia. It's time to become a Chico Fann! Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Chimp Beams
Demo Days: 2001-2003 CD

Cool compilation of Chimp Beams' early works. The aptly titled Demo Days album features a selection of tracks produced between the years of 2001-2003, just before their first official release Vibrato (2004). Smooth, chilled-out sounds that combine live instrumentation with tasty sample work are what this Brooklyn-based trio is known for and they were already doing it up proper back in the "demo days". Check the spacey dubbed-out vibes on "Sleepless Demo Mix(1)" and "Russian Roulette?(2)," smoked out out downtempo like "Cosmo Dub(3)" and "Org(4)," mean midtempo breaks like "Jupiter Acid(5)," and even cosmic fusion beats like "Dark Water Dirty Mix(6)." Great stuff to zone out to. 8 tracks total, limited edition of 150.
reviewed by snackmaster


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Chimp Beams
Menina CD

While giving this new Chimp Beams album a first listen, I found myself floating in a world of Twin Peaks dialogue, Lost in Translation imagery, and gut-wrenching Six Feet Under montages. Yes, it's that good. This electronic dub trio has been repping Brooklyn via Japan for a while now, and they do it with respect and consistency. Among the band members' side hustles is those fancy Concent accessories (type "Concent" in search) that you all love to buy from us. They also host great dub parties at BPM Studio, one of Williamsburg's best kept secrets. In between all that they make songs like "Menina(1)" which could easily have been too uplifting in the wrong hands, but damn if this nugget of joy doesn't make me want to walk through a garden in the rain with someone I love. If he had only had a boombox instead of a torch, I feel like Short Round could've used this song on Indy in the Temple of Doom to break him out of his evil spell. "11217(2)" already had me cradled as it was my first zip code in Brooklyn. The gritty pretty vibe has me open right now. You didn't know the slope was real like that, son! The somewhat sloppy dubs kill it in this one. They give me the same feeling in my stomach as I get walking down 5th Ave looking in the windows of coffee shops and restaurants at faces of people I will never know. I just read a line in a bell hooks book that says: "We do not know the truth that to be seen and not known is the ultimate abandonment." Welcome to New York City, baby. These Beams are really good at capturing the NY merging of endless possibility and bountiful potential for incredible lonliness. The mixture makes for really beautiful music and a really depressing review. It should be noted that I just watched a lot of "Sex in the City" and I have a stomach virus, a fever and a bumping headache right now. It's not that I retract anything I've said, but you may want to determine the depth on your own. Listen to the heavy happy of "Brooklyn Dub(3)", "Winter Song(4)", and "Dubzillian(5)" for a more complete taste. The cd and vinyl versions have different tracks but don't worry, you can buy them both.
reviewed by Telekinetic Kat


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Clutchy Hopkins & Lord Kenjamin
Music Is My Medicine CD

Music Is My Medicine is the latest puzzle piece in the mysterious Clutchy Hopkins saga. Are these tracks really vintage? Are they new? There's tons of back story on the net if you want the truth, but I guess it doesn't really matter to me 'cause the music speaks for itself. This is top quality instrumental downtempo, but what sets this one apart from his past releases is the distinct dub/reggae feel (I'm guessing it's due to the addition of Lord Kenjamin to the personnel). The added flavor works great with Clutchy's smoked-out, lo-fi style as heard on tracks like "Gourds Of The Desert(1)" which sounds like a lost Augustus Pablo track, "Tune Traveler(2)" and "Turtle Rock(3)" with their heavy skankin' grooves, or the dubbed out "Lord Kenji(4)" and "Heavy Hands(5)." Of course there are still some straight forward beats for the heads like the jazzy "The Old Spot(6)," or the psyche tinged "Cold And Wet(7)." Definite smoking material. 11 tracks total.
reviewed by snackmaster


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Dabaaz
Moi, Ma Gueule & Ma Propre Personne CD

LAB US EXCLUSIVO. New album from French rap supastar Dabaaz featuring production from some of Disque Primeur / Institubes' most trusted names. A-Trak scratches all over an obscure Clipse sample for "Regardes Les(1)," Drixxxe tinkles the ivories on the jaunty, piano-driven "En Plein Effet(2)," and Para One puts down a nasty, squelchy beat on "Le Da(3)." If you slept on Dabaaz's "Open Bar" single last year, you get the remix(4), just another of many dope Drixxxe productions here. (Feeling the "Whisper Song" update on "La Plus Belle Ce Soir(5)" - pretty sure I heard him say "Durex.") I can't understand a word this dude is saying and I still dig this album. Check the samples. 12 tracks; 46 minutes.
reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red


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Dam-Funk
Toeachizown 2CD

much anticipated full length from the Ambassador of Boogie Funk

Dam-Funk's long awaited funk opus has landed! Comprising of 24 tracks spread over 2CDs, Toeachizown is a modern masterwork of the funk ("funk" meaning Boogie, Modern Soul, Electro-funk). The man himself hardly needs an introduction with the string of highly lauded singles and EPs he has released leading to this album (plus his fame has been steadily on the rise with recent remixes for Animal Collective and Cubic Zirconia and cover shots in the FADER). Completely produced with analog synths and vintage drum machines, Dam successfully brings the essence of funk to the masses while fusing it with his own funky swagger on tracks like "Let's Take Off (Far Away)(1)," "LAtrifying(2)," "Love Is Here 2nite(3)," "Fantasy (4)," and "Keep Lookin 2 The Sky(5)." Of course the heavy G-funk inspired beats bump hard like the title track(6), "Hood Pass Intact (7)," "Brookside Park(8)" and "Killdatmuthafucka(9)," while other tracks ride smooth and stay fly like "10 West(10)," "Flying V Ride (11)," "Burn Straight Thru U(12)," and "Candy Dancin'(13)" with Mark De Clive Lowe on keys. Dam even gets open on the mic and showcases his vocal abilities (not vocoded) on "Come On Outside(14)" and "Searchin 4 Funk's Future(15)." This is one seriously talented dude. Over 2 hours of original music. Don't miss it! Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster


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Daniel Wang
Idealism CD

Environ CD reissue of Daniel Wang`s 2000 debut solo album. If you are not familiar with this guy, he's making moves in the underground dance world, similar to how labelmates Metro Area blew up a couple years back. Founder of his own Balihu label, Wang utilizes vintage instruments for unique sound suitable for the headphones or the progressive club. The original tracklist has been modified with new versions of "All Flowers Must Fade(1)" and "Misty(2)." "Black Boots and Sine Waves(3)" and "Glimmer In His Eyes(4)," twin cult classics from the Nocturnes 12" have also been added as bonus tracks. Lookout for the massive "Rings of Saturn(5)," originally a 150 copy white label release. Limited edition.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Danny Krivit
718 Sessions CD

soulful house/disco mix by NY legend Danny Krivit

When it comes to monumental DJ's in NYC dance music, Danny Krivit, is a true example of a living legend. With over 35+ years on his belt, he's one of the profession's experienced performers having lived through the glory days of the Paradise Garage to rocking dancefloors today. He continues the tradition at his famed party 718 Sessions, making it one of the last refugees for real NY disco and house music. This is his mix CD celebrating his party's 6th anniversary. Expect exclusive disco edits, soulful house grooves from Louie Vega, Pal Joey, Kim English, Shake The Dog, and even Jazzy Jeff! Recommended.
reviewed by C'mish


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Diplo
Decent Work For Decent Pay: Selected Works Vol.1 CD

colllection of diplo remixes

Doesn't it seem like it was yesterday that Thingamajawn was coming out on Money Studies? And now the guy's nominated for a Grammy. They grow up so fast! This CD kind of serves as an early career retrospective, featuring a selection of both early original productions and official remixes that have been released over the last few years. Early cuts like "Newsflash(1)" mingle with productions for other artists (Kano's "Reload It(2)" and, the mother of them all, "Paper Planes(3)") as well as remixes for artists like Hot Chip(4), CSS(5) and Peter, Bjorn and John(6). The CD also features a bonus media folder containing MP3s for the other versions of Diplo Riddim (Pantera Os Danadinhos' "Percao" and Vybz Kartel's "Baby"), the Johnny Blaze Remix of "Way More" off of the Florida LP, Diplo's remix of Spoon's "Don't You Evah," as well as the video for "Percao." 15 Tracks total, Recommended.
reviewed by Hires


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Diplo
Florida CD

OK, by know you know that we're pretty much down with everything Diplo does. You know we're gonna give this a positive review, blow some smoke around and maybe gush over it a little bit; but that's only because the shit is so good. Sorry, it just is. On Florida, Diplo makes thinking-man music that ain't boring and doesn't have a stick up it's ass. Such a rare thing. Like most debut albums, the tracks here are years in the making, and despite his open stance in terms of direction, they smoosh his many musical sides together with style. You can feel the influence of all the various projects- AEIOU beat tape smarts, hollertronix baltimore/ bounce sensibilities, etc- and the combination doesn't sound like anything else out there. Don't make me sound like a tool describing it, just pick this up with confidence. Listen to the intro "Florida(1)," "Way More(2)," the peak time of the 8 minute saga "Summer's Really Gonna Hurt You(3)," "Into The Sun(4)" featuring Martina Topley Bird, "Diplo Rhythm(5)" (a blend of the Sandra Melody, Vybz Kartel & Pantera Os Dandhinos tracks), "Indian Thick Jawns(6)" with PEACE, and "Big Lost(7)."
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Diplo
Top Ranking CD

diplo and santi mix action

Just as Diplo killed it on MIA's Piracy Funds Terrorism mix that dropped before her debut, he does it again with Brooklyn's own Santogold, mixing up jams off her recent debut album. Expect to hear exclusive blends and mixes of her singles, masterfully executed by Diplo himself. The styles flow smoothly from everything under the sun: dirty south, club, classic cuts, dance tracks, dancehall, dubstep, reggae and more. What's also cool is that although she's signed to a big label like Downtown, this is a Mad Decent pressing. So props to Diplo for making this happen. Expect to hear shit from Santi (duh), XXXchange, Ratatat, Richie Spice, Three 6 Mafia, B-52's, Kid Cudi, Switch, Radioclit, Benga, Tony Matterhorn, Skream, Warrior Queen, Barrington Levy, and more. The mix is 75 minutes, perfect for the summertime jams.
reviewed by C'mish


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DJ Shadow
Endtroducing (Cardboard Sleeve Import) CD

deadstock import pressing from 1996

Original MoWax deadstock copies (MW059CD). This import version is packaged in a mini-album sleeve (no plastic case). You know that really impressionable period in your life where you don't really know anything about anything, and you meet a bunch of cool people and they introduce you to a bunch of bands, movies, concepts, etc that you take as gospel, and you're really excited because you look around and are like "this is the golden age of me! Everything is new and exciting!" During this fertile time for me (AKA "college"), I heard the Portishead, Let Us Play!, and Endtroducing albums for the first time and, collectively, they BLEW MY MIND. I admit, this was a corny time for me (snowboarder pants + eyebrow piercing = ugh), but if I hear these albums I'll still bliss out idiotically to them. Fortunately, they're all watersheds of mid/late 90s electronic music production, and have dated well. The full length that established DJ Shadow as "the Jimi Hendrix of the sampler" (what does that even mean) is still an eminently impressive production debut, almost 10 years later. Everyone knows it was made entirely out of samples, but at the core of this album, each track transcends beyond this limitation and becomes something truly new, making it a desert island pick. OK, enough blowjobbing already (ed: you can only wish woodman), here are the songs: "Building Steam With a Grain of Salt(1)" has a crazy drum breakdown, "Number Song(2)" is based off a crazy Metallica sample, "Changeling(3)" is in crazy like 3/7 time, "Midnight In a Perfect World(4)" is a genre-defining masterstroke, and "What Does Your Soul Look Like Pt 1(5)" is the elegant capstone on the whole affair. If you were to ask me if this album is a must-own, I would stamp my fist into an open palm and screech "Yessssss!"13 tracks on the CD, 12 on the vinyl (no WDYSLL pt 4).
reviewed by the mgmnt


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DJ Shadow
Midnight In A Perfect World (Import) CD

Deadstock MoWax copies from 1996. This CD single (MW 057 CD) comes in a record-style, two piece sleeve and features the radio version of "Midnight In A Perfect World," the Gab Mix, the extended version(1), and "Mutual Slump." Limited stock.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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El Hijo de la Cumbia
Freestyle de Ritmos CD

DJ/rupture's Soot imprint brings us the first proper release from Hijo de la Cumbia, one of (if not the) the foremost name(s) in Buenos Aires' exploding neo-cumbia scene. The 23-year-old HDC was making beats for name cumbia acts like Pesadilla and Grupo Maravilla before going solo two years back, and he's been steady killing with tracks for labels like Cali's Bersa Discos ("Cumbia de los Barrios(1)") and ZZK ("La Mara Tomaza(2)") ever since, building steadily toward this... is it cool to call it an instant genre classic? (I think so.) Hijo keeps things diverse, adding touches of breaks ("Atraves del Tiempo(3)"), reggaeton ("Para Bailar Alika RMX(4)"), reggae ("Consciencia de Barrio(5)"), hip hop and d'n'b to the stew. Not just for cumbia heads - this is one to check. 13 tracks; 50 minutes. Recommended.
reviewed by Van Hammersly


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El Trip Selector
La Micro Coombia Mixtape CD

digital cumbia mix from Argentina

ZZK keeps the digital cumbia flowing with this mix by Argentina's El Trip Selector. This 19 track mix features mostly his own productions and remixes, plus contributions from Andres Landero, El Remolon, DJ Negro Dub; mashes of Underground Resistance, Cypress Hill, Eminem, and more. Limited as usual, 45 minutes total.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Fat Jon
Hundred Eight Stars CD

compilation of instrumentals prev available only in Japan

Fat Jon, along with Five Deez (with Pase Rock), used to be a fixture on the Lab downtempo pages. However, for the last several years, Jon has been releasing Japan-only releases as he's a bit of a cult figure there. This compilation of instrumentals (most of which appeared only on 12") was first released in Japan back in 2007, and finally gets a domestic issue on Jon's own Ample Soul imprint. For downtempo heads, you know what to expect: impeccably produced beats that touch feet in both the jazzy downtempo scene of the late nineties and the more forward beats of the post-millenium. 18 tracks in all.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Fauna
La Manita de Fauna CD

Fauna are a pair of dudes hailing from Mendoza, Argentina, a province situated in the Andes, about 600 miles from Buenos Aires. Regardless of their proximity to the capitol of "neo cumbia," Federico Antonio Rodriguez and Cristian Anibal del Negro prove that country boys can do this thing just as well as their cosmopolitan counterparts, rhyming over diverse IDM, reggaeton and ragga/jungle influenced cumbia beats con mucho entusiasmo. With their "ZZK Sound" CD comp and wax sampler, the newly released mixtape, and now this debut full-length, the infant ZZK label is officially on a tear. Check out: "La Colorada(1)," "El Ri Lac(2)," "El Zombie(3)," "La Picarona(4)," "El 04(5)." 11 tracks; 73 minutes.
reviewed by Van Hammersly


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Flying Lotus
1983 CD

Out here in LA, this Flying Lotus guy has been receiving a lot of hand to hand, word of mouth type hype. I don't even keep up with this kind of stuff, but his name has been in the right conversations for a minute. You know something's got to be pretty good when people are saying "Stones Throw intern" and "you need to check this out" in the same breath. His sound basically fits in with the whole Los Angeles underground future soul thing (SIC, Sa-Ra, Dilla, PPP, Ubiquity sound, etc), but taking it even more into the cosmic mind fuckery through instrumentals like "1983(1)." I like where this is going; no half stepping on the outer space shit with this guy. Strap in, float around, talk to Hal, cause there's 10 tracks of this stuff. "Pet Monster Shotglass(2)" is one of my favorites, if nothing else for onomatopoeia of it (sounds like a drunken little buddy from the muppets). Aside from the space shit, Brazilian influence pops up more than once, sometimes only in name, like "Orbit Brazil(3)," and later in style with "Unexpected Delight(4)" featuring Laura Darlington on some very pretty vocals. This is one of those records that can kind of be whatever you want it to; pay attention and get lost in the subtle complexity of his wrap around sound (z o n e o u t), or just leave it on in the back and get some work done. Includes a Daedelus remix of "1983," and I guess I should mention that he descends from the Coltrane line. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Fort Knox Five
Reminted CD

"Reminted" cause each track is remixed by Fort Knox Five, and then continuously mixed into an hour of that ass-giggling DC midtempo. Most of these tracks were 12" only releases, and feature some lab heavy hitters including Nickodemus, Dynamo Productions, Kraak & Smaak, Skeewif, and other names you see in our midtempo section. Also check out FK5's modern renditions of latin masters Tito Puente and Joe Bataan. 12 tracks in all.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Freddie Cruger
Soul Search CD

Freddie Cruger is the head of Sweden's most influential Raw Fusion and Gamm labels, and is a notorious grey label bandit releasing re-edits under a slew of guises including Red Astaire. This is a joint release on Raw Fusion and Ubiquity, and presents 12 tracks of primarily vocal collaborations. The producer- collaborator album is difficult to pull off, but Cruger does it. Rather than go for established names, it seems he tapped the hungry, lesser-known artists, willing to give 100% to their parts. Check out extremely solid opening triplet: the dubby "Over The Ocean(1)," the swagger-rap of "I Wanna Make You Move(2)," and late nineties hip-hop feel of "What'chu See(3)." Don't forget the soul vocal collaborations either, these really give the album another dimension, check "Pretty Little Thing(4)" featuring Linn, and "Special Lady(5)" featuring LDN. There's actually only one instrumental track here, but it's a heater, check "The Hustle(6)." 12 tracks, engaging all the way through.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Gaslamp Killer
I Spit On Your Grave (Obey) CD

Finally, the highly anticipicated new mix from the Lab's dirty beat digger Gaslamp Killer! This is his third official mix and I'll have to say, it's a mind ringer. You should know his style by now - dark, swampy funk, with murderous drums and sounds from beyond. Heavy beat brother Kutmah also jumps in on the action, for a straight hour of neck breaking evil breaks. If you're into that late 90's deep funk, eerie Mowax cuts, and spaced out instrumentals, look no further. Tracklist? Sorry, the Killer's M.O. is always a barrage attack, leaving no clues at the scene(I can only name the Flying Lotus and DJ Vadim's Motion Man "Terrorist" instrumental). Definitely something to enjoy while blasted on good headphones. Also, the sick artwork by Shepard Fairey makes GLK look as twisted as ever. Super recommended for the true beat fiend.
reviewed by C'mish

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Hudson Mohawke
Butter CD

futuristic beats, recommended

Wow, Hudson Mohawke has been putting in the work for this one. From the opening moments, this album literally bursts with new styles. Graduating from the post-Dilla beats school, Mohawke has created his own class, putting together fusion, new age, early 2000 jiggy, and really strong artificially flavored candy. This shit is so future with its science fiction references and strong halcyon sheen. It reminds me of those alternative dimension books (Prometheus Rising and lucid dreaming!) I used to read in college. I thought the cover art was really odd, but it all makes sense when you take a listen. 18 tracks in all, recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Hydroponic Sound System
Funky Excavation CD

You can always count on the Hydroponic Sound System for rockin' true school breaks with a reggae-tinged, hip hop aesthetic. For their Funky Excavation full length, the Texas duo of Skin and Rube offer up a gang of funky break-driven productions and get help from a host of MC's and vocalists. Check the opener "Hydro Soundclash(1)" for a good example of what these dudes are about. "All Right(2)" goes for a more jazzy CTI-style loop featuring conscious party flows from Headkrack, Keynote and Tahiti along with a sweet vocal hook from Laconda Davis. But if you're not too into vocals don't worry - HSS comes proper with the instrumental joints (in fact I actually prefer these). Check the funked-out grooves on "Lone Star Uprising(3)" and "M.J.Q.P.R.J.J.P.(4)," the feel-good dub-disco sounds of "Percy Keeps His Disco Dubby (5)," the uptempo funk burners "Battle Break Africa(6)" and "Shock The Spot(7)," the downtempo moods of "O.S.T. for Zonin(8)" and the skankin' beats of "Heat(9)." 14 tracks total.
reviewed by snackmaster


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Hypnotic Brass Ensemble
Flipside CD

lab exclusivo, live soul jazz from bklyn

I've been following the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble for a couple years now, and I swear they're on the verge of worldwide fame. These group of brothers (all sons of legendary soul jazz musician Philip Cohran) made a name for themselves playing on the streets of NYC (Washington Square Park and Union Square). It's an incredible thing to see a full brass band blowing away on the pavement (or subway station), not to mention the always funky drummer pounding out the crispest beats. Recently, these guys have been making serious moves, getting flown all over Europe, opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and signing to the UK's Honest Jon's imprint. And if you've seen them live in a venue, you know what I'm talking about when I say "worldwide"... too much talent and charisma. These CDs are straight from the band (same as the ones you can pick up at their shows), and all come highly recommended. If previous vinyl releases from Hypnotic are any indication, these will go fast (and restocks will be sporadic). This is elusive, debut "Orange" album from 2001 and features 9 tracks. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Hypnotic Brass Ensemble
Hypnotic Brass Ensemble CD

I've been following the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble for a couple years now, and I swear they're on the verge of worldwide fame. These group of brothers (all sons of legendary soul jazz musician Philip Cohran) made a name for themselves playing on the streets of NYC (Washington Square Park and Union Square). It's an incredible thing to see a full brass band blowing away on the pavement (or subway station), not to mention the always funky drummer pounding out the crispest beats. Recently, these guys have been making serious moves, getting flown all over Europe, opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and signing to the UK's Honest Jon's imprint. And if you've seen them live in a venue, you know what I'm talking about when I say "worldwide"... too much talent and charisma. These CDs are straight from the band (same as the ones you can pick up at their shows), and all come highly recommended. If previous vinyl releases from Hypnotic are any indication, these will go fast (and restocks will be sporadic). This is "Green" album from 2005 and features 9 tracks including hits "Jupiter(1), Birthday(2)," and "Balicky Bon(3)." Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Hypnotic Brass Ensemble
New York City Live CD

lab exclusivo, live soul jazz from bklyn

I've been following the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble for a couple years now, and I swear they're on the verge of worldwide fame. These group of brothers (all sons of legendary soul jazz musician Philip Cohran) made a name for themselves playing on the streets of NYC (Washington Square Park and Union Square). It's an incredible thing to see a full brass band blowing away on the pavement (or subway station), not to mention the always funky drummer pounding out the crispest beats. Recently, these guys have been making serious moves, getting flown all over Europe, opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and signing to the UK's Honest Jon's imprint. And if you've seen them live in a venue, you know what I'm talking about when I say "worldwide"... too much talent and charisma. These CDs are straight from the band (same as the ones you can pick up at their shows), and all come highly recommended. If previous vinyl releases from Hypnotic are any indication, these will go fast (and restocks will be sporadic). This is "Red" album from 2007 and features 13 tracks including hits "Tarik(1), War(2)," and "Mercury(3)." Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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I Cube
3 CD

He was one of the first "French house" producers, but I:Cube (aka Nicolas Chaix) is now known for his mastery with a wide range of styles and atmospheres. Whether collaborating with Versatile's Gilb'r as the jazzy, organic Chateau Flight duo or going it solo as I:Cube, Chaix is steadily gaining a worldwide rep as a pioneer of electronic sounds. Techno, house, downtempo, ambient: it all comes together flawlessly on this album, his third for Versatile. Obvious dancefloor cuts include Chaix's bumping, uptempo breakbeat collaboration with RZA on "Can You Deal With That?(1)," the stomping funk loop of "East Tribe(2)," and the acid throwback "Oblivion(3)." But it's the more melodic, moody material, especially "Tunnel Vision(4)" and "Music(5)," that leave the longest impression. Although I:Cube is best known as a singles artist, this is one of those rare albums that works nicely as a whole, rather than just as a collection of familiar songs. 13 tracks total.
reviewed by DJ Sleepyface


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J. Dilla
Ruff Draft 2CD

2 disc / 2 LP reissue of Dilla's lost masterpiece. Available briefly as a vinyl EP back in 2003 on the small German label Mummy, Stones Throw has gone super-deluxe with new packaging, several unreleased tracks, and the unreleased instrumental versions. 14 tracks, 10 instrumentals total.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Jean-Jacques Perrey & Luke Vibert
Moog Acid CD

French electronic music / musique concrete legend Jean-Jacques Perrey was one of the earliest musicians to utilize Moog synthesizers in his work, including the classic In Sound From Way Out album he created with Gershon Kingsley. Luke Vibert (aka Kerrier District, Spac Hand Luke, Wagon Christ, etc.) is the genre-jumping artist who, along with fellow twitchoids like Aphex Twin and Squarepusher, helped shape electronic music into what it is today. It's safe to say that, as collaborations go, this is something major. Perrey laid down the initial sounds here, then handed them over to Vibert for chopping, looping and whatever other means of editing Vibert saw fit. The result is a mash of every imaginable electronic style - from literal acid to d'n'b - infused with the warm analogue tones of Perrey's vintage Moogs, and you really just need to hear it. Put it this way: what other artists could put dubstep style sub-bass under a plinking, hokey take of "Frere Jacques(1)" and make it sound good? Also check: "Analogue Generique(2)," "White Knight(3)," "JJPLVDNB(4)" and "You Moog Me(5)." 11 tracks; 46 minutes.
reviewed by Larri Byrd


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Joakim
Monsters & Silly Songs CD w/ FREE Joakim 2007 Calender

LAB EXCLUSIVO! While supplies last, all orders for Joakim's new album will receive a 2007 wall calendar which features a special drawing by Joakim for each month. To call Monsters & Silly Songs "long-awaited" would probably be an understatement. In the five years since Joakim's Fantomes LP, he's dropped singles on a number of labels (not the least of which is Parisian electro imprint Kitsune), had a hard drive crash wipe out an album that was virtually complete, and formed two bands. One of those bands was My Sister Klaus, whose awesome debut single we've got in stock right now; the other was The Ectoplasmic Band, who acted as Joakim's studio band for the recordings on Monsters & Silly Songs. There ain't much silly about this record – it's serious as a heart attack when it comes to tracks like "I Wish You Were Gone(1)" and "Drumtrax(2)." Definitely feeling the vocals on "Lonely Hearts(3)," too, courtesy of the band's Nicolas Ker, who also co-wrote the fantastically creepy "Palo Alto(4)" (which is [un?]fortunately not a cover of the Radiohead B-side). And check the Goblin-esque synths on "Sleep In Hollow Tree(5)!" Too sick. Those looking for non-stop dance anthems may be a bit disappointed with this one, but this is a great album. Even the less danceable tracks are great in their own right – heck, even the little "Monster" interludes sprinkled throughout aren't without their charm. Cool stuff, and definitely shows Joakim setting himself apart from some of his French counterparts. 16 tracks total.
reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red


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John Tejada
Fabric #44 CD

For the 44th installment of their mix series, the folks at Fabric hollered at John Tejada, one of the biggest names in techno. Tejada flexes his minimal, techno and tech-house muscles on this one, also making sure to showcase releases from his own label, Palette. Includes tracks from Pigon, EQD, Orbital, Substance, Spooky and of course Tejada himself. 20 tracks total, 73 minutes.
reviewed by Hires


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J.Rawls
The Liquid Crystal Project #2 CD

J. Rawls and the gang are back for a second full length dose of that smooth "jazzhop" style they've come to master. If you're not up on the sound, think of your favorite hip-hop beats replayed by a live band and given an overall smooth-jazz flavor (Shipset likes to call these "soft bangers" LOL). The band has covered everyone from Dilla to Pete Rock and CL Smooth's "TROY" to a good level of success and this latest batch of beats follows the same formula as well as adding in some original compositions. First check some of the known classics to get you into the mood - "Tribute To Beatnuts(1)" covers the infamous "Off The Books" beat and "Tribute To Beatminerz(2)" goes for the Brooklyn anthem "Bucktown." Now check some sampled gems which are covered like "Loran's Dance Redux(3)" by Grover Washington which was sampled for "Push It Along" by ATCQ, as well as the lesser known "Capricorn's Reprise(4)" used by Five Deez. Personally, I really like some of the original works going on in here, especially "Digital Funky (5)" that gets some help from the Soul Makossa drums, "Charlie Chop's Gem(6)" with those tough drums cooled out by the mellow sax work, and the tripped out vibes of "Hebejeedees(7)." Also note that LCP aren't scared to show their roots as evident with the straight ahead jazz of "Retreat At Turnberry(8)" and the deep gospel vibes of "We All Fall Down(9)." 17 tracks total.
reviewed by snackmaster


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Kid Gusto
Tiny Violin - Este Mundo CD

Tiny Violin is new collaboration between DC downtempo producer Kidgusto and vocalist Bleu Cruz. This is definitely on some secret weapon shit, I wouldn't be surprised if this blew up. Gusto provides serious drum machine bump while Bleu drops sweet child-like, femme vocals with a bit of MIA swagger. Checkout standouts: "Sunny Day Getaway(1), Never Let You Down(2), Dennis Hopper(3)," and "Este Mundo(4)." 8 tracks plus a bonus remix(5) from Marc Hype & Jim Dunloop of Melting Pot Music.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Kiln
Sunbox CD

IDM is one of those genres that has a smattering of producers that really fuck it up for the rest of the good guys. It's a hard style to really perfect, and people think that smashing a mish-mash of dumb noises, effects, and some droning bassline equals success - but thank fucking GOD for Kiln. Sunbox was one of those albums I used to listen to while driving around Michigan with my windows down, late at night, cruising through tree-lined streets and just enjoying the fact I wasn't doing anything. I could honestly listen to "Ghost(1)" on repeat for days on end and never get sick of its subtle blurps and crackles. Equally impressive is "Season(2)," with this calming chords and a warmth that shows that ambient is much like a fine wine - it just goes better when it's simple, and it's best to let it sit for a while before you dive in to it (Boy - that was the queerest thing I've said in... well... probably five minutes). Anyway... "Lux(3)" bubbles and broods along magically, and I honestly can say that its probably one of the most relaxing tracks Kiln has ever produced. This trio of producers sure know how to make some insanely good ambient - god bless Ghostly for putting out yet another marvelous album. Recommended.
reviewed by minimal man


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Koushik
Beep Tape CD

30 tracks of beat sketches by the Stones Throw producer

30 track mixed instrumental album by Stones Throw premier beatmaker Koushik. This dude must be making beats all day long to have so many tracks. All tracks are around 2 min - ADD style(Also known as Dilla/Madlib style). Recommended.
reviewed by C'mish


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Koushik
Mixobeats 2CD

beats from Koushik's entire discography mixed, many unreleased tracks

Thorough mix of self-produced beats from Koushik Ghosh of Stones Throw fame. On Mixobeats, the talented producer gives us a audible tour of his entire production career to date with almost 80 beats crammed into just over an hour. Expect a hazy mix of downbeat hip- hop, 60's psychedelia, quirky beat head shit, rock and jazz loops plus eclectic funkyness from around the world. Features tons of unreleased material plus music from his Rhythm Trax, Beeptape, Now Again beats, limited 45 projects and much more. Also includes a second disc entitled Mixoremixes that follows a similar formula but with focus on his remix projects from 2001 to 2008 (including remix tracks for J-Rocc, Fourtet, Beastie Boys, Dooley-O, Percee P, and more). A shit ton of music to wrap your head around. Must-hear for Koushik fans.
reviewed by snackmaster


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Koushik
Out My Window CD

It always seems like the advanced downtempo heads always progress into Latin or psych territories as their careers mature. I love em, but dusty loops can only get you so far. Out My Window is Koushik's new haircut. Not to say that his previous stuff wasn't complex, but this is extra-brainy, west coast psych. And not the kind of psych that's just a rare sample layered on top of rare drums, it's a whole new taco (or at least he makes it sound that way). Sounds like it was made by some lost 70s band, locked up in a beach pad in Santa Barbara, doing shrooms and having exceptional orgies (kinda like Jemz in Hollywood, no?). Is that Koushik on the mic? Whoever, it sounds awesome. Wish this came out a couple months earlier, it would have definitely been my summer jam. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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La Roux
La Roux CD

debut LP from the UK synth-pop duo

It certainly has been a meteoric year for La Roux. What started last year with a 12" on Kitsune has now blown up into a self-titled LP that has already been certified gold in the UK (along with two top ten singles that featured some huge remixes), now finally seeing release here in the good old US of A. In case you've been sleeping, La Roux is comprised of Elly Jackson on vocals and Ben Langmaid on synths, and when you put 'em together you wind up with a duo that has a serious knack for writing catchy-as-fuck synth-pop. "Bulletproof(1)" is probably the catchiest of the bunch, and should translate to most dancefloors exceptionally. "In For The Kill(2)," which was remixed by Skream to wildly popular results, and "Quicksand(3)" are also danceable standouts. "Cover My Eyes(4)" is a great mid-tempo ballad, while "As If By Magic(5)" and "Fascination(6)" are both dripping with new wave pop sensibility. Honestly, all of the tracks here are really well crafted, the album never really falters. It's rarer and rarer to find an album without a skipable moment these days, but this is one of em. Highly recommended.
reviewed by Hires


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Luke Vibert
Rhythm CD

It's impossible to pin down Luke Vibert. Just as he mastered the disco thing (Kerrier District), he delivered Moog Acid, a collaboration with Jean-Jacques Perrey... I would have bet the house that he'd be floating into space now right now working with fractals and worm holes. Instead, he's popped on the Japanese label Soundofspeed with a throwback, feelgood downtempo release that harks back to his Mo Wax releases (Big Soup etc). Checkout: "Wow! It's Now(1), Registrarse(2), Eleventy One(3), Rhythm(4), James Bond In A Jimmy Hat(5)," and "Harmonica Sellers(6)." 11 tracks in all.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Mary Anne Hobbs
Mary Anne Hobbs: Evangeline (Flying Lotus, Shackleton, Headhunter, Boxcutter) CD

comp of dubstep, beats, electronica

With the recent success of Mary-Anne Hobb's Wild Angels comp, we revisit the 2008 precursor Evangeline. Although this was released a year ago, most of these names are still firmly hidden in the underground, ripe for re-discovery. This dubstep-electronica-beats selection is led by established names such as Flying Lotus(1), Shackleton(2), Pinch(3), Wiley(4), and Boxcutter(5); then enhanced by a host of lesser known producers Ital Tek(6), Ben Frost(7), Tes La Rock(8), and Magnetic Man(9). Expect similar qualities to Wild Angels 16 tracks in all.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Matthew Dear
Body Language, Vol.7 CD

The Don of Detroit techno steps to the plate for the latest edition of Get Physical's Body Language mix series. Dear does a masterful job of bridging the gap between the Detroit techno sounds he's known for and the driving Berlin sounds commonly found on Get Physical. You might say "Hey man, it's all unt-se unt-se to me," and I will say to you "Wrong! Listen again." The mix spans from minimal to techno (original flavor) to deep house and includes tracks by Kalabrese, Sascha Dive, Johnny D, Prompt, DJ Koze, I:Cube, Seth Troxler & Patrick Russel, as well as a brand new Matthew Dear exclusive entitled "Free To Ask." 20 tracks, 75 minutes total.
reviewed by Hires


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Metro Area
Metro Area CD

This long awaited full length sums up the last 3 years of work from Metro Area, one of the most in-demand production teams around right now. Metro Area consists of Morgan Geist and Darshan Jesrani and since teaming up they have done no wrong, releasing four very successful EPs on Morgan's label, Environ. The EPs, entitled simply Metro Area 1, 2, 3 and 4 have been incredibly successful and equally hard to find, which has done nothing but fuel the demand for Metro Area tracks. Here they compile new edits of their out of print classics such as "Caught Up(1)" and "Machine Vibes(3)." The addition of new gems like "Dance Reaction(4)" round it out nicely and make this a must to all fans. As for their sound, it's a mixture of live and electronic instruments- think early soulful, instrumental disco augmented by atmospheric chords and some slightly techno flourishes. Fresh, but with a strong nod to the past. This CD version includes 3 tracks not available on the LP: "Muira, Strut" and the track that could be their finest moment, "Pina."
reviewed by James Patton


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MF Doom
Special Herbs Box Set 3CD

Listening to this set was one of those Keyser Soze moments when you see all the pieces of the puzzle come together and the shit finally makes sense. Individually, MF Doom's Special Herbs instrumental collections have always been decent, but not mindblowing. Now, Doom's collected Volumes 0 thru 9 and made the beat tape of his career, seamlessly mixing some 70+ tracks over two jam-packed CDs. To quote the Villain himself, some of these beats are simply retarded, yo - sound like they came off the Hey Ricky Ricardo Show. Some you'll recognize from Doom or Geedorah joints, and some will be totally new. Either way, you'll agree that the sum of these is greater than its parts. The bonus third disc features "10 secret herbs & spices from the KMD kitchen." All this comes housed in a screenprinted cardstock digipak, and the whole shebang is strictly limited to 7500 copies worldwide. Cop now or cry later.
reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red


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M.I.A.
Boyz (Bonus Features) CD

Now on CD with enhanced content, including the various "parts" of the track to make your own remix, the music video, and a "making of." First single from M.I.A.'s new album - do I really have to keep writing? Produced by London's Switch, "Boyz" sounds bigger and more set on party-starting than anything off of Arular, and that's a good look for ol' M.I.A. It's a bit more tame than the excessively weird early leaker "Bird Flu," but considering this is Switch producing a pop record, I'd say it lands right where it needs to be. Okay, I've filled enough space, you can add this to your cart now. Includes main, instrumental and acapella versions.
reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red


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Michna
Magic Monday CD

electronica from lab's own

Otherwise known in the Lab circuit as the one and only Egg Foo Young, roll out the red carpet for Michna's first album! Sure, going with the real name moniker doesn't sound as fun as the party rocking, Miami Bass, electro, dnb loving Egg Foo that we all know, but it is his first solo album on Ghostly, which a giant step in artistic maturity. Don't let it fool you though - all the influences I just mentioned are still there, only fused with his passion for hip hop, downtempo beats, and writing ill horn parts on trombone. Just listen to "Swiss Glide(1)" for a perfect example. Other tracks like his "Triple Chrome Dipped(2)" quickly turned heads with a style that combines leftfield electronic vibes with Bmore style rhythms and electro (check the Boy Cat Bird video for it on Cartoon Network). The entire LP follows suit, fusing together different styles into an original sound that's ultimately modern. Check the thick as funk sounds of "Skunk Walk(3)," the downtempo meets the 80's vibe of "Bumper Car Masters(4)," the experimental electronic sounds of "Raw Paw(5)" and the bass on "Redline Flights(6)" and "Avante(7)." Recommended.
reviewed by C'mish


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Mr. Chop
For Pete's Sake (Pete Rock Covers) CD

psych, funk, jazz and rock covers of Pete Rock beats

Coz Littler aka Mr. Chop does an incredible job of reinterpreting Pete Rock's greatest beats in a psych, funk and jazz mode. A talented producer, engineer, and multi-instrumentalist, Chop is certainly not a new jack when it comes to producing. After working on several Now Again, Jazzman, and even recent Doom releases, Chop has honed his skills and gives us a unique and refreshing take on Pete Rock classics. Recorded at Cheshire UK's Ape Recording Studios with the help of Heliocentric's Malcolm Catto, Jake Ferguson, and Mike Burnham, For Pete's Sake takes you on a hazy, psychedelic trip through hip-hop territory like you've never heard before. 17 tracks total.
reviewed by snackmaster


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Omar-S
Fabric #45 CD

detroit techno and house mix

Yeah, yeah... underground dj heads have been up on Omar-S for a minute, but this is a huge step into the spotlight for one of Detroit's finest. Omar-S is in the same school as Theo Parrish when it comes to DIY white label culture, so it was surprising to see his official Fabric mix (props to them). But as expected, Omar doesn't give into convention as he drops a 16 track mix of his own music (double royalties!). About half the them are unreleased, and the other half consist of the greatest hits from his FXHE label. 1.2 hours, recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Omar-S
Just Ask The Lonely CD

detroit house and techno

With his recent Fabric release and numerous self-released 12"s, Omar S has joined the ranks of fellow Detroit producers (Theo, Moody, etc) as a trusted source for quality Detroit house and techno. 2005's "Just Ask The Lonely" full length was a crucial release for Omar that cemented his producer status with moody and minimal pieces equally influenced by his Detroit surroundings, its rich musical heritage in soul and techno, as well as video games and pizza(!). Check the high speed techno-soul on "Jit(1)" (a track named after the local Detroit dance style), the bleepy "Strider's World(2)" (my gamers know where this came from), pounding piano driven house on "Congaless(3)" and the sublime 10 min+ title track(4), mellow vibes on "100% House(5)," and "Just Because(6)," and the Infatuation sampling "A Victim(7)." You can see why he's blowing up these days. 11 tracks total. Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster


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Optimo
In Order To Edit (R&S Classics) CD

mix of re-edits of the classic R&S catalog, techno + electronic

This is a super ambitious mix concept as Optimo edits its way through the R&S back catalog (legendary Belgian techno - rave label). Each track has been re-edited, and in some cases remixed (which is great cause some of these early techno records are unlistenable in original form). There's genre classics from Joey Beltram (Energy Flash!), Aphex Twin, Mu-Ziq, Jaydee (Plastic Dreams), CJ Bolland, and others; plus all those obscure single-only releases. Optimo has done a top notch job making the material digestible and re-shaping the sounds for modern ears. Bravo. 22 tracks, recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Paul White
The Strange Dreams Of Paul White CD

excellent downtempo beats in ltd. edition packaging

The current UK beats scene keeps progressing, and only solidifies further with this full length from Paul White and One-Handed Music. Much like Dilla's Donuts, this album features a potent briefcase of short beat sketches, each averaging approximately 2 minutes in length. Just when you get your head around one sound, White drops something completely fresh and different... it works. In addition, this limited edition comes packaged in a handmade, hand-stamped pillowcase(!). Recommended.
reviewed by mgmnt


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Pink Skull
Zeppelin 3 CD w/ FREE Sticker Pack

SPECIAL OFFER: Purchase the debut CD from Pink Skull and receive a Free News Projects sticker pack with Pink Skull stickers designed by Matt Leines.

Pink Skull are always killing on the remixes (see: Spank Rock, Architecture In Helsinki, HEALTH, Plastic Little), but their latest full-length truly showcases Julian Grefe & Justin Geller's considerable production skills and deep knowledge in all fields of "dance musics." (I think they got doctorates.) They go quasi-retro 80s style on "El Topo(1)," skronky tribal beating on "U.g.uo.aaaahhhhh(2)," even some hefty downtempo with "Zing Zong(3)." Previously vinyl-only singles "Gonzo's Cointreau(4),"
"Bubblelog Aftermath(5)" and "Unicorn Harpoon(6)" are collected up here, as well as the Skull's remixes for Plastic Little ("Crambodia(7)" with Ghostface, Spank Rock & Amanda Blank) and Icy Demons ("1850(8)"). Guest appearances from Man Man's Billy Blaise Dufala, Higher Burning Fire's Jon Anderson and K Records' Mirah on the lovely closer, "Take Me Out Riding."
14 tracks; 65 minutes total.
reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red


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Pollyn
This Little Night CD

Keen Lab followers might remember Pollyn's Songs For Sale EP from several years back. This homegrown piece of HGSOB paired the vocals of Genevieve Artadi and the beats of Sample208 (aka Stussy's Adam Weissman). They've been busy in studio over the last couple years, and the result is this super-polished album. Rather than the sample-based style we first heard from Pollyn, this album sounds like it was built from original instrumentation (a bunch of synth work). Excellent listening album, 11 tracks in all. Cover by Noah Butkus.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Portishead
Third CD

I know you've all been waiting for another installment from our favorite downtempo/trip hop trio Portishead. Well, here it is! And we only had to wait like 10 years. Like many of you I'm sure, I was in middle school when Dummy came out. When I heard it I was in love. Their whole sound was so unique and unlike anything else at the time. Even still, no one really does what they do. You can put them in whatever box you want, but I think ultimately they stand alone. When I first listened to Third I guess I was expecting/hoping it to sound exactly like their other records. It doesn't. But the more I listen to it, the more I realize it has all the elements of what we already love about them, it's just presented differently. The beats are actually more sparse, but almost with an industrial/metallic sound. Not like NIN industrial, so don't freak out. It just doesn't have that certain smoothness that came with their earlier stuff. Check out "Hunter(1)," "Rip(2)" or "Nylon Smile(3)" if you want start out with something familiar. But then please, branch out. Listen to the whole thing. It will grow on you. 11 tracks; 50 minutes.
reviewed by RikRok


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Presto
Magic CD

Concrete Grooves label head Presto with his second full length album. Following 2003's Inflight Instrumentals album, Presto switches it up with an album consisting primarily of emcee collaborations. Presto is one of the most consistent producers in the downtempo game. Persistent might actually be a more apt description, as he's become one of the few torch bearers of that mid-nineties, jazz-inflected, boom-bap sound a la Tribe, Large Professor, and Beatminerz. Here's a few of my favorites: "Breath Control(1)" feat. Lowd, "Think It Thru(2)" featuring Raashan Ahmad, "Right Here(3)" featuring J.Medeiros & Kim Hill, and "Back In 92(4)" feat. Lowd. As for the instrumental tracks, they're all predictably smooth, check "Spectra(5), The Dream(6)," and "Old Skool To The New(7)." 15 tracks in all.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Presto
State of the Art CD w/ FREE Unreleased Beats CD

SPECIAL OFFER: Purchase this album and get a free copy of Presto's Lost And Found: Unreleased Beats CD.

Third full length from LA producer Presto. We've seen him get more involved with emcees and vocalists over the years, and here's the apex. Each of the 15 tracks are collaborations with artists like Sadat X, OC, CL Smooth, T Weaponz, Raashan Ahmad, Kim Hill, Blu, Lowd, and others. He even has a bonus remix by Large Pro himself. This deluxe digi-pack fold out CD features a 2nd disc with videos for "Conquer Mentality" and "On."
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Ray Barbee
Ray Barbee Meets The Mattson 2 CD/DVD

smooth west coast jazz from ex-Powell skater, includes DVD film

Ray Barbee, pro skater extraordinaire, drops his third album and the progression is remarkable. Whereas his earlier albums sounded like a coffee shop mix of jazz and downtempo (not a bad thing), this new album is full-on, jazz club quality, breezy west coast jazz. You know... the stuff that makes you want to road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway, loving life like a Cialis commercial. I'm no expert but Ray's guitar is slick, restrained, and full of finesse, kinda like his skating (The Mattson 2 probably deserve a ton of credit here too). And to complete the package, cover art is by Geoff McFetridge and it comes with a bonus DVD featuring a film about the album. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Red Astaire
To My MF Clubheadz EP

After a busy 2007, Red Astaire started his 08 assault with a one-sided, white label pressing of the title track(1) (included here). Predictably, the record flew out of here, and just in time, he's come back harder with 5 additional tracks. Red always has the club dj in mind, mixing well crafted dance breakbeats with party break aesthetics. Check "2 For The Time(2)" which mixes mambo, latin breaks, and a De La Soul vocal snippet. Downtempo heads, Reds also got something for you, check the blunted "In The Sunshine(3)." Lastly check the tasty, loop interlude "We're Gonna Party Now(4)."
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
raw fusion + gamm - vinyl / raw fusion + gamm + related

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Sabo & Zeb
Global Warmbeats CD

latin-afro influenced dance + downtempo

Sabo & Zeb have been putting out best-selling 12"s for several years now on Wonderwheel and Sabo's own Sol Selectas imprint. Here they focus their energies on a full length on Italian label Irma. It's a great mix of their signature dancefloor cuts and multi-layered downtempo. "Cool NY(1)" is an awesome opener that flows into the female-fronted "Rise Again(2)." From there they get onto the dancefloor with "One Family(3)" and "Disco Down(4)." The album continues in this pleasing mish-mash fashion alternating from gypsy funk to chilled-out dub to energetic Brazilian numbers ("Nossa Coracao(5)") to funky breakbeats ("Cmon Feel It(6)"). 12 tracks in all.
reviewed by mgmnt


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Sade
Unreleased Sade Dance Mixes 2CD

Not only is Sade beautiful, she has that timeless voice that producers dream of working with. Hip hop and house beatmakers alike have had their turn at backing the goddess-like diva, but sad to say most of her dance remixes get overlooked. That's where this comes in. It's her "unreleased" remixes comp which compiles all the forgotten dance mixes on her 12"s on one handy 2CD collection. These have been taken directly from the 12" versions, so please excuse the occasional vinyl pop, but for the most part these are super clean. If you were expecting groovy lounge mixes, you can leave that to Large Pro. These ones take the smooth vibe of the originals to unexpected levels of house and dance that you wouldn't expect. Check the Daft Punk-like "King Of Sorrow(1)," the breaky version of "Killer Blow(2)," the hard beat and cowbell on "Sweetest Taboo(3)," the "By Your Side - Dub Mix(4)," the infectious summer party vibe of "Paradise(5)" and the soft groovy bump of "Kiss Of Life(6)." Finally you can mix Sade into everything from Bmore to House and Electro. Make sure you bring your Bucketheads "The Bomb" track too, it'll kill with this.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Savath & Savalas
La Llama CD

modern south-american psyche from Prefuse 73

Many of those familiar with the tireless musician, producer and songwriter Guillermo Scott Herren often cite his Prefuse 73 as favorites from his vast catalog which has inspired a new generation of producers (Flying Lotus, Dabrye, Hudson Mohawke, etc). Guillermo has always remained one step ahead of the pack though by diversifying his sounds outside of the 'glitch hop' universe. With a love for South-American psychedelic music and Catalan folk melodies, Herren found inspiration for La Llama in the early 70s independent music scene that had briefly flourished in Recife, Brazil. Stones Throw is proud to release this record. Somehow a minimal Catalan psych-folk album inspired by Brazilian counter-current musical giants falls in line with Mars Volta-leader Omar Rodiguez Lopez's prog-rock opus Old Money and Madlib's Beat Konducta 5&6, a tribute to J.Dilla. It is sure that this album, an acoustic excursion, drenched in Puyelo Muns' breathy vocals, maintains some of the minimal electronic sensibilities that Herren allows to run throughout his different guises. But it marches to its own beat. Defiantly cerebral, not made for dancing, no "stand-out-single..." Well, for Stones Throw, that's just par for the course. La Llama fits perfectly in our ever-expanding musical tapestry.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Sixtoo
Duration CD/DVD

A proper re-release of both Sixtoo's Duration album and the accompanying video/film, both of which were originally released in 2001. The Duration album was made with the help of a grant from the Nova Scotia Arts Council, and is fittingly experimental- one long track clocking in at 40 minutes with plenty of traps to get your mittens stuck in. The CD also includes 5 bonus tracks which originally appeared on the "Secrets That Houses Keep" EP. The DVD is a remastered version of the original Duration video, which Sixtoo released himself (in a micro-run of 50 home dubbed VHS tapes). FULL REVIEW COMING SOON.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Spank Rock
YoYoYoYoYoYo CD

Finally! The debut from these Lab-affiliates-Big Dada-hotshots is finally upon us, and it's basically as awesome as everyone was expecting. Including almost all of the tracks released on wax in the past year: "Backyard Betty(1), Far Left(2), Rick Rubin(3)" and "Sweet Talk(4)," plus a whole grip of new ones, YoYoYoYoYo expands on Spank & XXXChange's signature Baltimore bastard sound, while bringing new regions and genres into the fold, like Screw music on the syrupy closer, "Screwville USA(5)." If you've liked what the boys have done in the past, there's no way you could be disappointed with this one. The only downside? No "Put That Pussy On Me." 12 tracks total.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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The Glass
Remixes & Rarities CD

NYC dance duo The Glass unleash 11 rarities from their ever-expanding discography, all unmixed and ready for your Serato box. These dudes got clout (member Dominique Keegan is co-founder of the killer Plant Music label), so expect to hear some high quality remixes of their tracks from trusted names, like Mylo's take on "Hear The Music(1)" or DJ Eli reworking "Fourteen Again(2)." Even better are The Glass' own remixes; included here are their spins on Robbers On High Street ("Married Young(3)"), 120 Days ("Sleepwalking(4)"), Antipop & Asia Argento ("Vampy(5)") and 2020 Soundsystem ("No Order(6)"). Also includes the original 12" version of The Glass' "Won't Bother Me" and remixes of The Glass by Rinocerose, Michel Class, Supertroels and Arveene & Misk. 11 tracks; 67 minutes.
reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red


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The Slew
100% (Kid Koala) CD

hard turntablist rock from Kid Koala + Wolfmother

Aww yeah! The homie Kid Koala from Montreal is back with Dynomite D and the rhythm section of Wolfmother(!) to breathe some much needed freshness back into the turntablist music scene. The Slew project is much harder and more rockin' than any of the other Kid Koala projects you've heard in the past (though still just as, if not more fun!) thanks to the raw cutting of wailing guitars and vocals from deep blues rock records and live drums and bass. The end result sounds like the channeling of Jimi Hendrix' spirit through the modern DJ turntable and really has to be heard to be believed 100% rocks hard from beginning to end, but check these highlights for a taste - "100%(1)," "Problem Child(2)," "You Turn Me Cold(3)," "Robbing Banks Doin' Time(4)," "The Grinder(5)," "Shackled Soul(6)," and "Battle Of Heaven & Hell(7)." Also of note: the album was mixed down by Beastie Boys producer and engineer Mario Caldato Jr who says he hasn't heard anything this crazy since Paul's Boutique. Whoa. Definitely catch the live show if it comes through your city.
Recommended.


reviewed by snackmaster


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V/A
15 Years Of Metalheadz CD

DnB compilation from legendary label

UK's legendary Metalheadz has been around for 15 years now and to celebrate they've rounded up the biggest tunes from their extensive catalog. The influential drum n bass/jungle label pretty much brought DnB to the masses thanks to seminal releases by Goldie and his crew of now legendary producers back in the early 90's and with this compilation you can revisit (or hear for the first time if you missed it!) all the hits that changed dancefloors across the globe. Check out early classics like Doc Scott's raw "VIP Drums(1)," Dillinja's "Angels Fell(2)," Alex Reece's groovy "Pulp Fiction(3)," Adam F's "Metropolis(4)," and Lemon D's super tough "This Is LA(5)," later anthems like John B's ravey "Up All Night(6)" and Marcus Intalex & ST Files' smooth roller "Universe(7)" and even much more recent bangers like D-Bridge and Vegas' "True Romance(8)" and The Comix "Be True (9)." Is a DnB revival eminent?
reviewed by snackmaster


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V/A
Beat Dimensions, Vol.2 (Nosaj Thing, Samiyam, Ras G, Exile) CD

new school beats comp, pick

Cinnaman & Jay Scarlett culminate their Beat Dimensions 12" series with this 20 track compilation of the finest in new school beats. We already know about producers such as Ras G, Exile, Danny Breaks, Samiyam, Mike Slott, etc. But it seems like every week, new producers on this comp are emerging like Nosaj Thing, Mono/Poly, Dimlite, and Fulgeance. If the compilers were picking stocks, they'd be rich. If you want a snapshot of the current new beats scene, you can't do much better than this. Highly recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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V/A
Coney Island Love CD

Nickodemus' Wonderwheel label with their first CD release. This collects most of the label's 12" output thus far, plus some outside treats, all mixed together by Nick. If you like Turntables on the Hudson stuff, this is a must. Great cover work by Mirk. 14 tracks in all by artists like Zeb, Angola, Sabo, Nickodemus, Shantel, Quantic, and more.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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V/A
DFA Compilation #1 CD

Well, kudos to the DFA boys for a succinct title – this is indeed a compilation of the New York production duo/label's 12" a-side output thus far, and it's a pretty impressive one at that. The DFA gets props far and above the pasty, unwashed masses of Williamsburger bands who have been mistakenly labeled with some permutation of the adjective "dance-" (as in dance-punk, dance-post-punk, whatever) in the recent "hey, white people are cool again" rock revival/media frenzy. A sloppy four-to-the-floor beat and a well-worn copy of the Gang of Four's Entertainment do not dance music make, my friends. What separates the DFA aesthetic from this chaff is an un-ironic appreciation of early Chicago house, deep disco, dancey post-punk, and rock in general, and the ability to combine them all in a way that each retains its stylistic integrity in the mix. In other words, no one is laughing at the music they are making. The Rapture doesn't sound like a rock group trying to make half-assed dance records, they simply sound like a good band. Things kick off with nicely with The Juan MacLean's "By The Time I Get To Venus(1)," a bumping electro number that reference's dark '80s electro-pop without getting cheeky. James Murphy's (1/2 of the DFA) LCD Soundsystem release "Give It Up(2)" is a great itchey post-punk dance number, and while you might be sick of The Rapture's "House Of Jealous Lovers(3)" by now, it is a massively great track, arguably the soundtrack of NYC the last year, and the record that put the DFA on map. Also here is the Rapture's damaged-pretty "Silent Morning", LCD's hilarious hipster anti-anthem "Losing My Edge(4), The Juan MacLean's "You Can't Have It Both Ways(5)," and two tracks from free-form wankers (in a good way) the Black Dice.
reviewed by Language


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V/A
Doin' James (James Brown Remixes) CD

Yo, so GAMM been killing it with their Doin' James 12" remix series lately, recruiting everyone from Ayres to Red Astaire to revive the timeless funk of a one James Brown. It's brilliant really, getting a bunch of modern producers to add a modern dancefloor touch to the most sampled man in history. The only con about the 12"s is that all the Serato and Digi-DJ's kinda miss out on this vinyl exclusive series, until now. This is the compilation of the first 4 volumes, in high quality mp3's to heat up the dancefloor. Thanks for bridging the funk gap between the new and the old.
reviewed by C'mish


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V/A
Headz: A Soundtrack Of Experimental Beathead Jams (Import) 2CD

Deadstock MoWax copies from 1996. This is the second pressing (MW 026 CD) of the groundbreaking Headz compilation in the stickered matte sleeve. Double disc, limited stock. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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V/A
Symbol Heavy, Vol.1 CD

First official release from the Symbol Heavy collective out of Kansas City, featuring one of my favorite new beatmakers, Boyd Pro. Like Boyd's solo album, the main theme running through this comp's 38 tracks is hip-hop, but almost every song is spiked with a different ingredient: dusty downtempo, heady psych, processed electronics, and so on. Artists include Boyd Pro, Topp Boom (who also handles the trippy cover art, featuring SH's "target audience"), M.Barnacle, Beatbroker, BGM, Dragon Tears, Brother of Moses, Negro Scoe / Pro-Mo-Scoe, The Hundred Spoke and more. Plenty of solo beats from each artist, plus crossovers and collaborations every which way. I can see Symbol Heavy doing big things in the very near future... 38 tracks; 54 minutes.
reviewed by Larri Byrd


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V/A
Turntables On The Hudson #6 Remix CD

The latest installment of the Turntables On The Hudson compilation series. This volume focuses on remixes which have been previously unreleased or only available on 12" vinyl. Once again it's a top notch, dj friendly selection, set off by "Sixtro(1)" produced by Lab's own Sabo. Some hot latin influenced tracks follow, check Marzebian's "Che Lingua(2)" the Matthias Helibron remix(3) of "Brobombique," and the Quantic and Nickodemus collaboration "Puerto Rico Pa Gozar(4)." It gets thicker from there with genre-defying party tracks like the DJ Endredo remix(5) of "Bateria Virtual," the Beat Pharmacy's remix(6) of "Jump," and the Jugoe remix(7) of Zeb's "The Circle." As we always say, if you want this kind of sound, TOTH and Wonderwheel are the best places to get it. 12 tracks in all, recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Windsurf
Coastlines CD

Daniel Judd (aka Sorcerer) and Sam Grawe (aka Hatchback) are both well respected for their individual productions on Tirk and Lo Recordings, but when the two join forces they are Windsurf and deliver the best of that Balearic aesthetic on Prins Thomas' Internasjonal label. Their debut full length is appropriately titled "Coastlines" and promises to take you on a aural vacation via the sounds of mellow synths, acoustic guitars, easy-going vibes, and a great combination of downtempo and yacht rock influences. You might've heard the EP which was released last year (and quickly sold out of our store) that featured "Future Warriors(1)," "White Soweto(2)" "Windsurf(3)," and "Pocket Check(4)," but the full length features much more to soak in including the beautiful opener "Moonlight Sun(5)" that'll surely get your mind right for the style, the upbeat groove of "The Big Island(6)," and the ambient synth-scape epic "Crystal Neon(7)" that clocks in at about 12 minutes long. 10 tracks total. Fans of Claremont 56, Soft Rocks, Sebastien Tellier, and cosmic beach naps will like.
reviewed by snackmaster


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Zeb
Zeb Step CD

If you like dubstep but wish there were more lighthearted jams to change up the mood every once in a while (and keep the girls grindin'), may I suggest some Zeb? He pretty much has a lock on that dub reggae style of dubstep, keeping the vibe bouncing as well as the soulful progressions and organic structure. Think of Scientist combined with a heavy dubstep style and click on "Nafas(1)," "Rocking Wise(2)" and "Dunes(3)" for a taste of the hypnotic dubby bass riddim. "Dub Step Halal(4)" and "Ride One Final(5)" add a dash of grimey dubstep to the mix for extra bite. For the most part, the tracks are pretty smoked out on this, so be prepared to get your relax on.
reviewed by C'mish


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Z-Trip
Urban Revolutions Megamix CD

A companion piece to the Urban Revolutions compilation from Future Primitive, Z Trip takes the whole project and reconstructs it into a 72 minute megamix.. Z-Trip, turntablist blend king, adds that needed live feel to all the tracks with scratching, complex mixes, and occasional doubles. Z-Trip had fans souped at the Battle Sounds 5 event and we immediately sold all of his cds after he announced our booth. This CD is on the limited release schedule, only going to a few stores and limited to 1000 copies. Look out for the hidden Phonosychographdisk monologue (circumcise your face), super aggressive scratch track and secret sdrawkcab segassem way out on track 47 or something.
reviewed by mgmnt


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