New releases this week: All genres

Notes: Contains 2x 5pin DIN Midi cables

Notes: Optional Accessory MIDI cable for WIDI Jack Bluetooth MIDI Interface by CME

Notes: Enjoy high-speed MIDI data transmission without latency thanks to the ultra-thin, high-performance plug design. The right angled plugs fit seamlessly into tight spaces and is easy to connect with convenient protrusions.

Seamlessly connect your MIDI devices - keyboards, synthesizers, controllers and guitar pedals - using TRS 3.5mm (1/8") Type A and 5-pin DIN MIDI In, Out & Thru ports, following the MIDI Association standard.

Nickel-plated connectors and oxygen-free copper core endure frequent plugging and unplugging. Integrated shielding prevents interference, ensuring error-free MIDI data transfer of all your MIDI messages.

Notes: Enjoy high-speed MIDI data transmission without latency thanks to the ultra-thin, high-performance plug design. The right angled plugs fit seamlessly into tight spaces and is easy to connect with convenient protrusions.

Seamlessly connect your MIDI devices - keyboards, synthesizers, controllers, guitar pedals - using TRS 3.5mm (1/8") Type A and 5-pin DIN MIDI In, Out & Thru ports, following the MIDI Association standard.

Nickel-plated connectors and oxygen-free copper core endure frequent plugging and unplugging. Integrated shielding prevents interference, ensuring error-free MIDI data transfer of all your MIDI messages.

Notes: Enjoy high-speed MIDI data transmission without latency thanks to the ultra-thin, high-performance plug design. The right angled plugs fit seamlessly into tight spaces and is easy to connect with convenient protrusions.

Seamlessly connect your MIDI devices - keyboards, synthesizers, controllers, guitar pedals - using TRS 3.5mm (1/8") Type A and 5-pin DIN MIDI In, Out & Thru ports, following the MIDI Association standard.

Nickel-plated connectors and oxygen-free copper core endure frequent plugging and unplugging. Integrated shielding prevents interference, ensuring error-free MIDI data transfer of all your MIDI messages.

Notes: 4-pack of low-profile 5-pin DIN MIDI cables, male-male, 3 ft/90cm

Notes: *** Update February 2025- NKS Integration available with this product ***

Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) is a technical standard that connects plugins to hardware controllers with no setup required. The NKS ecosystem includes over 2,000 virtual instruments and plugin effects by over 250 acclaimed developers.

NKS enables users to load instruments and effects, tweak parameters, browse and manage presets with tangible controls, keeping creators' minds and hands on the music. No time is wasted creating, saving, and resetting controller parameter mappings.

Key features include:
Unified Control: NKS maps plugin parameters directly to hardware controls, allowing for hands-on adjustments without navigating computer menus.
Efficient Workflow: It streamlines browsing, loading, and editing presets, enabling producers to stay focused on creativity.
Broad Compatibility: Many third-party developers support NKS, offering a wide range of compatible sounds and effects.
For Our Products: This integration allows Akai and M-Audio compatible devices to fully utilize all NKS workflow features.

Here are some key points to take note of:

Current users will receive the software bundle once they register their device.

Both existing and new owners will receive the software bundle once their hardware is registered.


NKS Software Partnerships

For years, Native Instruments has partnered with world-class software manufacturers, including Arturia, Heavyocity, Korg, Output, Spitfire Audio, and many more, to bring thousands of instruments and effects plugins into the NKS ecosystem. Together with Native Instruments' own instruments and effects, this creates the most extensive database of any auto-mapped hardware controller ecosystem.

Until now, NKS hardware controllers were only available from Native Instruments, such as the Kontrol S-Series and Komplete Kontrol A-Series keyboard controllers.

NKS Hardware Partner Program [New]

At NAMM 2025, NI announced opening up NKS compatibility for third-party, non-NI hardware, allowing millions of performers and producers worldwide to enter the NKS ecosystem.

Supplier's notes:


Welcome to theAbrand-newAOxygen Series from M-Audio, theAOxygen Series (MKV).AIn today's world of music production, controlling your digital music environment is important. It is not only how the pros improve their workflow, but also how they create unique cutting-edge signature sounds.AM-Audio has updated theAmost iconic series of MIDIAkeyboardAcontrollers on the market for software-based music production and performance.AThe new Oxygen Series (MKV) keyboard controllers offer innovative advancements in hardware control enabling you to create modern cutting-edge music on stage or in the studio.

Professional Producer Features
The Oxygen 25 (MKV) controller includes powerful features essential for creating and producing music such as Note Repeat (a staple mark in beat production),AFull Velocity Control of keys and 8 pads, 8 assignable knobs for controlling effect plugins and virtual instruments, and an assignable fader for mixing:Aall opening a world of precise music creation techniques making your signature sound professional and modern.

Note RepeatAallows you to hold down any of theA8Acustom-made M-AudioAvelocity-sensitiveAperformance padsAin 2 available pad banks toAhear a repeated rhythmic pattern at a selectable note division. The Note Repeat feature can be activated momentarily or can be used in Latch mode. If you choose Momentary, holding the Note Repeat button will make the note played by the pad automatically repeat. If you choose Latch, pressing any pad will cause its assigned note to repeat without having to hold down the Note Repeat button.A

Built-in Arpeggiator
Arpeggiators help add excitement and movement to music quickly and easily. The built-inAArpeggiatorAon the Oxygen 25 (MKV) with Type, Octave, Gate and Swing controls will creatively affect anything you are playing on the keys from any virtual instrument in your DAW. When the Arpeggiator is activated, the keyboard will repeatedly play the keys that are pressed in the selected sequence. The arpeggiator's timing and rhythm is based on the keyboard's time division setting in either the keyboard's tempo, or your DAW's tempo setting. Each note in the arpeggio will be the length selected for the time division setting. For example, if you select 1/4, each note in the arpeggio will be audible in quarter note increments. This powerful tool can operate in Latch or Momentary mode, making it easy to unleash your creativity.

SmartAControlsSmart ChordAandASmart ScaleAtechnology are the bridges between your musically creative mind and your final productions. TheASmart ChordAfeature helps bring out your inner musical genius by playing full chords with a single key press, and with the Smart Scale feature, the Oxygen 25 (MKV) keys transform into a perfect scale, playing the exact notes within a chosen scale. WithASmart Ch

Notes: NGEN is a unique 16-track MIDI sequencer designed in Sao Paulo / Brazil that lets you combine multiple algorithmic / generative generators and MIDI FXs to sequence multiple hardware or software MIDI instruments.

It offers a completely new way of creating and performing music by abstracting the composition process. Instead of writing sequences from scratch, NGEN lets you quickly generate a new sequence for your drums, basslines, melodies, and chord progressions with a push of a button.

NGEN includes classic Spektro Audio generators (ACDGEN and Polyform), completely new algorithmic generators (Drumgen, Samba, Arper, MARP, Pop, Turing, Shuffler), and practical generators (Input Sequencer, MIDI Player, Thru).

Each generator features an unique algorithm that combines different composition techniques with randomness so each generated sequence is unique.

After generating a sequence, you can tweak it in real time using the parameters available for each of the generators. Take things even further by applying MIDI FXs such as Chord or Glitch to your sequences.

All tracks in NGEN follow the same key and scale so it's easier to get multiple sequences that work well with each other.

Quickly save and restore your creations using patterns and projects stored in the microSD card.

NGEN's design is primarily focused on live performance so it features a 1.3" OLED screen, a minimalistic and easy to read interface, mechanical switches (Gateron Green), shortcuts for accessing different features, per track Program Change selector and auto-variation, extensive MIDI CC implementation, and a Performance mode for controlling up to 4 parameters at the same time.

NGEN also includes a variety of tools to let you explore this world of algorithmic sequencing such as assignable CV outputs, a built-in MIDI monitor, different clock generators, and much more.

Generators

ARPER- Algorithmic arpeggiator with real time controls
ACDGEN- Design to generate basslines and melodies using 8 different algorithms.
DRUMGEN- Generate drum patterns based on 3D probability templates based on different genres.
INPUT SEQ- Record incoming MIDI notes into a step sequencer then adjust transposition, density, and direction in real time.
MARP- Unique and experimental polyrhythmic arpeggiator.
MIDI PLAYER- Playback .mid files stored in the microSD card (1 track, up to 128 events).
POP- Generate chord progressions and control how they're played.
SAMBA- Percussive generator based on a 4-part euclidean sequencer.
SHUFFLER- Sequence and rearrange sliced loops (in a software or hardware sampler).
THRU- Modify sequences coming from other tracks or an external MIDI generator.
TURING- Generative generator based on a lockable 16-bit shift register (inspired by Music Thing's Turing Machine).

Hardware

USB-C
MIDI via USB or 3.5mm (Type A)
1.3" OLED Display
Internal Storage
microSD Storage
Mechanical Switches (Gateron Green)
4 CV Outputs (0-3V)
I2C via 3.5mm (for future development)
Carbon Steel case (1.5mm)
High Quality 3M Polycarbonate Label

Specs

Product Weight: 650g
Product Size: 155 x 105 x 50 mm
Product Box Size: 18 x 13.5 x 9 cm
Shipping Box Size: 22 x 16 x 12 cm
Shipping Weight: 750g

Notes: Exceptional value from one of Zoom's entry-level recorders. Quick and easy to set up and use, the H1essential offers excellent stereo sound quality. Records to microSD card, with option to transfer files via USB.

Supplier's Notes:
Zoom H1essential - 32-Bit Float Recording for All

The World's Easiest Recorder, Just Got Easier

With the push of a button the H1essential captures perfect audio for musicians, podcasters, filmmakers, and content creators. Simply hit record and discover the power of 32-bit float.

32-Bit Float Magic

With 32-bit float recording, you never have to adjust levels. The H1essential captures every nuance of your sound ensuring high-quality audio with every take

The First Handy Recorders with Accessibility

The Essential Series was designed with Accessibility for the blind and visually impaired. Navigate the menu with audible descriptions through the built-in speaker or headphones. Creators can choose English, Spanish, French, Japanese, German, Italian or Chinese.

Loud and Clear

The onboard X/Y microphones capture clean audio up to 120 dB SPL, equivalent to the sound of a high-performance engine.

The Perfect Practice Companion for Musicians

Musicians can use the H1essential to record every rehearsal, a great way to improve your playing. Features like overdubbing and playback-speed-adjustment are great for writing and practicing.

Sound Makes the Scene

The H1essential is great for filmmakers. Record and send audio directly to your camera or use it to record sound effects to complete your scene.

For Storytellers

Podcasters can mount the H1essential on a tripod for sit down conversations or use 'mono mode' for on-the-go interviews.

Big Features, Small Package

The H1essential has advanced features such as overdubbing, pre-record, auto record, and playback speed adjustment.

Features

32-bit float recording: perfect audio with no need to set gain
120 dB SPL 90 degree XY Mics
Records up to 96kHZ sample rate
New OLED Display
Overdubbing, auto record, pre-record and timer functions
USB Microphone Function
Audio guidance function for the blind and visually impaired
10 hours of battery life on 2 AAA Batteries or USB-C Bus power

Specs

Inputs

Built-in mic: 90 degree XY stereo format
Directionality: Unidirectional
Sensitivity: -37 dB/1 Pa at 1 kHz
Maximum sound pressure input: 120 dB SPL

MIC/LINE IN jack

Connector: Stereo mini jack
Input impedance: 2 kO or more
Plug-in power: 2.5 V

Built-in mic
90 degree XY stereo format
Directionality: Unidirectional

Outputs

PHONE / LINE OUT jack
Connector: Stereo mini jack
Maximum output level: 20 mW + 20 mW(into 32O load)
Output impedance: 10 O or less
Built-in speaker Type: 20 x 30mm oval dynamic speaker
Practical maximum output: 250mW

Recorder
Recording formats:
WAV
44.1/48/96 kHz, 32-bit Float
Stereo / Mono
BWF and iXML formats supported

Recording media
4-32GB cards compatible with the microSDHC specification
64GB-1TB cards compatible with the microSDXC specification

Display
OLED: 128 x 64

USB
Connector: USB Type-C (Use a USB cable that supports data transfer.)
USB Mic: USB 2.0 High Speed
48 kHz, 24-bit
File transfer: USB 2.0 High Speed

Power

2 AAA batteries Alkaline, Lithium, or Rechargeable NiMH
AC adapter: ZOOM AD-17: DC 5 V/1 A
USB bus power is supported.

Estimated continuous operation time using batteries

Alkaline batteries: About 10 hours
NiMH batteries (800 mAh): About 9 hours
Lithium batteries: About 18 hours
Stereo recording, 48kHz/32-bit float, no headphones, Power Save 1min
These values are approximate.
Continuous battery operation times were determined using in-house testing methods.
They will vary greatly according to use conditions.

Power consumption: 5 W maximum
Dimensions: 53.9 mm (W) × 136.6 mm (D) × 29.0 mm (H)
Weight (including batteries): 92 g
Note: 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms

Notes: Small Just Got Very Big

The LiveTrak L6 is Zomo's most compact and portable digital mixer / recorder. With 10-tracks of studio quality audio, effects, MIDI, and sound pads, it's perfect for bands, synth players, live streaming, and more.

Full Featured Mixer

Don't let its size fool you. The L6 is designed with big mixer capabilities; a full channel strip for each track including aux sends, pan, effects, and a 3-band mid-sweepable EQ.

Powerful Multi-Track Recording

The L6 records 10 discrete tracks plus the full stereo mix on microSD cards up to 2TB. Share the live mix, or transfer your stems to your favorite DAW for editing and mixing.

MIDI Connectivity for Synths and Keyboards

Connect, program, and sync the L6 to your outboard gear via the 3.5mm MIDI I/O, or to a computer via USB.

Map parameter controls such as volume, pan, and EQ to outboard gear
Trigger sound pads and scene switching
Tempo sync delay and echo

Features

10-channel ultra-Compact digital mixer
2 XLR/TRS Combo inputs + 4-Stereo inputs
12-track simultaneous recording
MIDI In/Out for mixer control and USB MIDI interface
3 Scene memory for storing mixer and tempo setting
32-bit float multi-track recording to micro SD card
5 Internal Send Effects
2 AUX send outputs
4 Assignable sound pads (sample player)
3-Band EQ with MID freq control for each channel
Headphone output + Master output
Eurorack compatible
12-in / 4-out Audio interface
4 AA battery power operation or USB power

Specs
Input and output channels
Inputs MIC/LINE (mono) 2
LINE (stereo) 4
Outputs
AUX SEND (mono): 2
MASTER (stereo): 1
MONITOR (stereo): 1

Inputs

MIC/LINE:
Connectors: 2 XLR/TRS combo jacks (XLR: 2 HOT, TRS: TIP HOT)
Input gain: Adjustment unnecessary (dual A/D converter circuits used)
Input impedance:XLR: 3.8 kO or more, TRS: 39 kO or more
Maximum input level XLR: +4 dBu, TRS: +24 dBu
Phantom power: +48 V, Channel total of 10 mA or less

LINE

Connectors: 8 TS phone jacks (unbalanced)
Input impedance: 10 kO
Maximum input level: +9 dBu

Outputs

AUX SEND
Connectors: 2 TRS phone jacks (impedance balanced)
Maximum output level: +9.5 dBu
Output impedance: 147 O

MASTER
Connectors: 2 TRS phone jacks (balanced)
Maximum output level: +15 dBu
Output impedance: 147 O

MONITOR
Connector: TRS phone jack
Maximum output level: 50 mW + 50 mW (63 O load)
Output impedance: 14.7 O

Buses

MASTER: 1
AUX SEND: 2
SEND EFX: 1

Channel strip

3 BAND EQ:
HIGH: 10 kHz, +/-15 dB, shelving
MID: 100 Hz - 8 kHz, +/-15 dB, peaking
LOW: 100 Hz, +/-15 dB, shelving

Level meters: 6 segments
Send effects: 5 types

Recorder

Maximum simultaneous recording tracks: 12
Maximum simultaneous playback tracks: 2
Recording formats: 48 kHz, 32-bit float, mono/stereo WAV
Recording media: microSDHC memory cards (Class 10 or higher), microSDXC memory cards (Class 10 or higher)

Audio interface

Input and output channels: Input: 12 channels, Output: 4 channels
Sampling frequency: 48 kHz
Bit depth: 32-bit float / 24-bit
Interface: USB 2.0

Card reader: Mass storage class USB 2.0 High Speed
Sampling frequency: 48 kHz
Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz / -1.0 dB
Equivalent input noise: -120 dBu or less (IHF-A) at 150O input

Power
4 AA batteries - Alkaline, Lithium, or Rechargeable NiMH
AC adapter: ZOOM AD-17 : DC 5V/1A
USB bus power is supported.

Estimated continuous recording time using batteries
Alkaline batteries: About 3 hours
NiMH batteries (1900 mAh): About 3.5 hours
Lithium batteries: About 7 hours

12-track recording, phantom power off, headphones used (63O load), no MASTER output connections
These values are approximate.
Continuous battery operation times were determined using in-house testing methods.
They will vary greatly according to use conditions.

Power consumption 5 W maximum
Dimensions: 223 mm (W) × 114 mm (D) × 46.5 mm (H)
Weight (main unit only): 526 g
Weight (including batteries): 618 g
Note: 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms

Review: After five years on ice, Greg Wilson has rebooted his long-running A&R Edits imprint, an outlet the UK electrofunk pioneer founded back in 2013. As usual, the edits come not from the man himself, but rather mates and collaborators. Ian Ossia steps up first with 'Papa Stoned', a deep, driving, dubby and lightly acid-flecked rework of 'Papa Was a Rolling Stone' with tightened, beefed-up drums and heaps of peak-time potential. Over on the flip, Che and Matica provide a 'cryptic retouch' of a familiar disco-funk favourite (titled here 'Dream a Dream'), foregrounding heady horn blasts, sprawling and spacey synth solos, and another sweat-soaked disco groove.

Review: Making your debut release at 100 years old must be a feat that no-one's ever achieved before. This isn't just a novelty act. Marshall Allen remains a force of nature, and 'New Dawn' proves it. The lead single and title of his debut solo album is a subdued yet powerful statement, showing a different side to the legendary saxophonist who has shaped the Sun Ra Arkestra for over 70 years. Featuring Neneh Cherry, 'New Dawn' unfolds as a contemporary jazz odyssey, balancing Allen's signature cosmic energy with a deep, introspective warmth. His alto sax glides gently over the composition, offering space for Cherry's ethereal presence and the bright young talents surrounding him. On the flip, the instrumental edit allows Allen's playing to shine even more, revealing his intricate phrasing and the emotional depth behind every note. It's not the explosive free-jazz chaos of Sun Ra's wildest moments but a thoughtful meditation on time, legacy and reinvention. For a musician who has always looked to the future, Allen's 'New Dawn' is both a bold continuation and a fresh beginning. A special release for a special artist.

Review: It doesn't seem like the hard techno revolution is going anywhere any time soon. AnD (techno) is a label making sure of that and its sixth missive from the boss is another one to make the eyes water and the heart race. The white knuckle slammer that is 'I Got So Much' kicks off and then 'Screeching' does just that with a terrifying sense of anxiety and menace. 'Your Energy' is all glitchy sounds, squealing textures, hard techno drums and twisted sirens and the final part of this techno equivalent of a Monster energy drink overload is the rip-snorting 'On A Mission.'

Review: Delivering two boundary-pushing deep house cuts that fuse Detroit influences with global rhythmic elements, this little 7" packs a punch. Side-1's '9 1391919 21' rolls in with deep bass and a laid-back yet funky groove. The Detroit foundation is undeniable, but the infusion of world-inspired instrumentation adds a rich, cultural texture, making it both smooth and dynamic. Flipping over, '17151425' shifts into high gear with an uptempo, warehouse-ready energy. Sci-fi atmospheres swirl around tribal drumming, creating a hypnotic, alien-like rhythm that feels raw yet futuristic. A forward-thinking release from a producer deeply connected to both underground traditions and global sounds.

Review: Back ion 2021, the relaunched Foliage Records imprint offered up a killer mix from NYC house legends Mood II Swing, the must-check Deep Rooted. Soon, the revitalised label will release a sequel, with long-serving British deep house don Atjazz at the helm. This sampler EP boasts six of the highlights from that set - all remixed and reworked by Atjazz himself. There's much to enjoy throughout, from the tense, slowly building deep-tech shuffle of Halo''s 'Glorty (Atjazz Galaxy Art Remix)'and the sun-splashed 6am bounce of Atjazz's remix of Dominique Fils-Aime's gorgeous 'Sun Rise', to the dreamy dancefloor wooziness of Ralf GUM's 'AWA' (re-imagined by Atjazz as an Osunlade-esque spiritual house workout) and the jazzy, bass-guitar-propelled broken house excellence of 'On The Road (Vocal Mix)', a three-way collab between Atjazz, Kelli Sae and The Realm.

Review: Larry Atkins' stomping opener doesn't waste a secondithose pounding drums set the tone before his raw, impassioned vocal takes over, riding a groove that's tight but full of swing. It's classic mid-60s soul, pushing urgency and melody in equal measure, while the flip, 'Lighten Up', runs on the same chassisia rolling, propulsive rhythm that Harris later repurposed for Ty Karim's 'Lighten Up Baby.' But here, Atkins gives it his own edge, his delivery grittier, the energy unshakable. Both tracks sit firmly in Northern Soul history, not just for their rarity, but for the way they command a dancefloor.

Review: Spain's Tensegrity Records makes its debut with a release that locks together rhythm and atmosphere like well-fitted joints in a wooden lattice. Founded by Babu, the label takes its name from the concept of tensegrityistructures held in equilibrium through tension and compression. That same principle underpins these five tracks, where restraint and release shape the groove. 'Tensegrity' sets the foundation, interlocking elements with a patient, tensile flow. 'Erase una vez' nods to electro and new wave, its synth lines tinged with nostalgia, while 'Meritocracia' stretches out into lush, contemplative territory. On the flip, 'Romi' leans into shadowy, percussive minimalism, its tribal pulse threading through negative space. 'Structural Stress' closes with a rawer energy, drawn from personal upheaval yet channelled into something direct and resolute. With only 200 copies pressed, this first transmission from Tensegrity Records feels not just meticulously crafted, but necessary.

Review: Cosmic master and eclectic DJ trendsetter Daniele Baldelli is back with more Cosmic Voodoo in the form of this new series of releases alongside Mattia Dalara. 'Saturn Express' gets underway with a typically diverse set of influences from psych rock guitar to disco drums and cosmic exploration. 'Countless Sigga' is a playful sound with 80s synth seances looked over drums with a hint of Afro charm and fat disco basslines. Last of all is the wonderful 'Silverado Trail' with its hypotonic lead, crunchy and chuggy ALFOS style drums and percolating arps which shine as bright as the sun.

Review: If you like your jazz mystical and spaced out then you're on the right page with this one. The Blackhole label returns with a sixth self-titled offering that is buy on sight. 'More Love Songs' has whimsical leads disappearing off into the cosmic ether over mic jazz-funk drums with some breezy vocals finishing it in style. 'Searching The Circle' then take off on another carefree and breezy groove with far-sighted melodies and gorgeous vocal harmonies that melt you to your core. Beautiful stuff.

Review: Almost a year after his last outing on Dungeon Meat, Amsterdam's Borren is back with more hefty slabs of hardcore house and garage fusions. 'Space Mode' kicks off with shuffling beats and low sling bass that can't fail to amp the party. 'UKTD Gangsterloop' is another naughty and smiling cut with characterful samples and filthy bass. There's some nice and trippy melon to 'Warp Garage' that makes it perfect for those inky blue late night hours and 'Zeer Zakelijk' shuts down with chunky drum funk and rolling bass that is so deep it rattles foundations.

Review: Rain A Fall returns with more of its lovely roots goodness on a new and crucial 45rpm that pairs General Soria with Brother Wildman. The latter kicks off with 'Too Many Worries & Problems' which is a heavy, hard-hitting digital roots tune with tough lyrics that do not pull any punches. It's perfect for all roots and sound system enthusiasts, as is the flipside dub from General Soria which rewires it with extra heavy low ends and cavernous kicks for summer fun.

Review: After a blistering first 'Hot Creations Sampler' EP heard an inaugural black-gold palm tree get blown down, with everyone to hear it, now comes a gratifyingly quick follow-up, this time with Steve Bug, Denney, Joshwa, Vintage Culture, Vinter and Hot Since 82 all in tow. No-one misses a kick, with Bug & Denney's opening gambit 'That Beat' locking down a morse bassline against stereo planed beat axis; Hot Since 82 contrasts with the incredibo 'Sonedo', which relays pop dance saxophony a-la Alexandra Stan through a believably ecstatic deep house filter. Second's the best!

Review: Long-time collaborators Thos Bulwer and Anna Wall are back at it again, here serving up their blend of house music on Classique. 'Damn Girl That's A Lot Of Swing' is a fresh way to open and it sounds a bit like a prime Masters At Work cut updated for 2030. 'Casa Classique' switches out house drums for loopy and seedy breaks, spin backs and big percussion while a Boris Werner remix of the opener brings more tight tech house stylings. 'Bio Dynamic' flips the script again with grinding piano chords and airy mid-tempo drums. Innovative sound designs and unusual combinations make this a standout from this pair.

Review: Tom Carruthers returns with a fresh drop on Syncrophone Records, comprising the fresh analogue jams 'From Within', 'Zone', 'No Frequency' and 'Malfunction'. All hitting hard with an old-school, sequencer-happy flavour, one which requires no second-guessing, our faves here have to be the basal FM roller 'Zone' and the brash, trashyard B-fronter 'No Frequency', both of which make deft use of the same bassline, yet each to drastically different effec.

Review: A San Francisco house producer who is taking jazz influenced house music to another level is Coflo aka Cody Ferreira 'Syncopatience' is a stunning deep house release that highlights his signature blend of soulful rhythms, intricate grooves, and rich musicality. Each track brims with personality, that blend clever and creative vocals and lyrics to a deeper level than just for the dancefloor. Side-1 starts off with 'Get Down, Show Love', a collaboration with Fenyan that exudes a hip, jazzy charm. Playful yet refined, it features catchy vocal work and a high-level jazz flair, effortlessly blending house with improvisational energy. Next, Coflo's remix of 'Cee.Side's Elektrify' brings atmospheric depth, wrapping Latin influences around a funky, sultry groove that's as hypnotic as it is danceable. Side-2 delivers Ecru, where Coflo, Steve Howerton, and Niya Wells craft a deeper, tech-tinged house cut with sharp, clever lyricism. Its polished production and layered instrumentation elevate it to a higher plane of jazzy house, demonstrating Coflo's versatility and artistry. 'Syncopatience' has the solution on how merge soulful textures with dancefloor energy in a unique way.

Review: Bristol label-turned-blog Innate launches a new sub-label, Innate Editions, which it says is dedicated to timeless UK techno, IDM, electro and ambient music, and it'll all come on heavyweight vinyl to boot. The first release revives Connective Zone's Palm Palm, a millennium-era cult classic and Ben UFO favourite that first came out on Mark Broom and Dave Hill's Unexplored Beats in 2001. Now, this long-out-of-print, expensive and hard to find gem has been remastered by Jamie Anderson and so sounds superb with many lavish electronic layers, richly emotive melodies and dynamic drums that lean on UK techno, IDM, and deep electro. Sounds as good now as it ever did.

Review: Patrick Conway is back on ESP Institute for a third time and the returns are as brilliant as the first two outings with plenty of emotional depth on display. Opener 'Loss' sets a melancholic tone with a repeating high piano note guiding a poignant chord progression, angelic voices and a modulating synth all sinking you in. That contrasts with a gritty rhythm section made from corroded dancehall elements all bathed in saturation for added authenticity. On the B-side, 'Silencio' explores negative space and rhythmic dialogue using anthemic synth stabs to unify the more meandering melodies. When chaos and order synchronise with force like this, there is fun to be had.

Review: After more than four years without releasing any singles, Cosmjn returns with a killer solo EP for Radial. Sprinkling in notes of bassline and speed garage, 'Make Me Feel XTC' and 'Luvs & Dubs' hears a transition from filthy to brainy, the latter track especially likening the impulse responses of an impending, digital 303 to the kisses of a lover. B-siders 'Groover Killa Moves' and 'Aerosoul' mirror the A-side's movements whilst expanding their respective settings to cavernous proportions, the latter track especially wowing with its super-breathable, pipey sound design, making for a stirringly deep two-note hook.

Review: Amasser of over 100 million streams in 2024, 'Ora che non ho piu te' ('Now I No Longer Have You') was one of Italy's top electropop hits of 2024. Attracting a panoply of remixers for use in their own DJ sets, Mondo Groove now commit four of the choicest of said redoings to a vinyl press, enlisting such first magnitude stars as Benny Benassi and DJ Ralf. Progressing through fine layers of burbling synth and cooing sentiment, we're most taken, however, by Samuele Sartini's closer, which the roar of crowds into descending synth beneficences, causing all heaven to break loose.

Review: After the first in this new Mellow Bangers series got us nice and twisted we're delighted to have the follow-up from Italo Moderni. Cryk kicks off with an eerie blend of Italo arps and dark wave drums with electro overtones on 'Double Crash' then the moodiness continues with the depraved bass warbles and crashing hits of Fragedis and his 'Disco Nicotina.' Antoni Maiovvi brings a lightness of touch to his delicate arps and celestial harmonies on 'Stopping Power' and Adrian Marth layers plenty of sugar and pixelated synths into his loopy 'Modernism.'

Review: Giovanni Damico teams up once again with Star Creature for a new 45 packed with fresh boogie bangers. The A-side delivers a funky, psychedelic disco stomper that will effortlessly and quickly transport you to listeners to 1981. It has echoes of Afro sounds from Lagos and the disco energy of NYC's Lower East Side, with catchy chants and breakbeats evoking a hidden Kid Creole track. The B-side is a great take on Italo disco with dusty drum machines, percussion and vintage synths infused with Damico's own guitar and bass work. This is another great chapter in the ongoing story between artist and label.

Review: The Extra Soul Perception label held a first ever writing camp in Nairobi in 2019 and Lynda Dawn was one of the pupils. She has already released 'Roses' on the label's New Tangents...Vol. 1 EP with other music from the UK, Kenya and Uganda. But this was the standout track so now it makes its way to its own 7". It is the sort of heart achingly beautiful slow motion disco-soul that will be perfect end of the night send home or early evening warm up for more cosy dance floors. There is a slightly more beefed up version from XL Middleton to complete this tidy 7".

Review: Reissue! Future Retro's 2023 wallop session from Professor Turbo himself Dev/Null get a repress and you'll have to be speedy to cop it. Grounded in more of the breakcore-type circles, 'Deep Love and 'The Cut' are slightly slower than his usual fare, but they sound just as furious and heavy as you'd expect. 'Deep Love' is a big hurricane of tune while 'This Cut' is more techno than it is jungle. Complete with remixes from Sonar's Ghost and Dwarde, this is a veritable rave volcano.

Review: Kent records brings a lesser-known soul gem back to vinyl where it truly belongs. Originally recorded by Terri Bryant on Verve in 1967, '(You'd Better) Straighten Up And Fly Right' has long been a fan favourite, but it has never before been available on 7". The Devonnes' version, led by a powerhouse female vocal group, captures the aura of 60s soul with an infectious melody, catchy hooks, and an exciting energy that makes it a standout in the era's soul catalog. On the flip side, 'Doin' 'The Gittin' Up' is another lively, danceable track that showcases the group's versatility. Written by the prolific Larry Banks, the song was first issued in 2005 on a compilation but has been in high demand ever since. Both tracks highlight the talent of the Devonnes, who, despite their impressive output, didn't gain the recognition they deserved at the time. This reissue finally gives their recordings the attention they've long warranted.

Review: SPIL Records follows up its impressive vinyl debut here with a second 12" release featuring fresh tracks from label head Jack Swift and Scott Diaz. Diaz kicks off with 'Like Dis' which is all classic US house drums and bouncy bass, then Timmy P & Lunoize's 'Ouch' is a swirling, vocal-laced party starter. Swift then offers 'Burning' which is a lively garage house cut with throwback diva vocals. Devstar's Feel The Vibe remix shuts down with some more naughty, dark and dirty bassline sounds perfect for pumping up the floor.

Review: When we're vexed, we're incensed, we're angry, we're provoked... but when we're "vexxed"? Lord knows what the extra X signifies! First released together in 1993 on Blueprint Records, DJ Fokus' 'Vexxed' and 'Chill Out' scored a bipolar mood of "rage and disengage", revealing intermediary darkside energies in the process. Packed with 70s horror sound motifs, in turn set against crushing industrial breaks, breakbeat hardcore A-sider 'Vexxed' is just as invidious as it was in 93, compartmentalising any raw emotion in favour of pure, furious air-hornage and scattershot breaks. 'Chill Out', sad to say, is hardly a chillout tune, but perhaps the A raised the stakes too high: those FMs are bouncy enough to keep speed forever, and those Reeses could melt the hardest of ices.

Review: Australian DJ and producer DJ Life's offering twists through the space between deep rhythm and intricate detail. Opener 'Bring the Beat Back' locks us into a steady, almost mechanical groove, setting a quiet but resolute tone. By the time 'Focus Beam' rolls in, the sound broadensirolling rhythms and subtle textures layering into a deeper, trance-like pulse. Each track weaves together smooth basslines and darker atmospheres, a quiet contrast to the pulsing energy beneath. Closer 'Flusong' rounds out the journey with its deeper, more percussive edge, crafting a moment of focused tension. It's a masterclass in rhythmiunfolding with relentless fluidity and immersion.

Review: DJ Python burst onto the scene with an all new type of go-slow, dubbed-out take on reggaeton that mesmerised dancers all over the world. He has since evolved his sound into all sorts of different niches and for this outing on XL the US innovator looks to ambient and downtempo worlds. 'Marry Me Maia' is a soundtrack to a middle-of-the-night meditation, gazing up at the stars, 'Dai Buki' has spoken word musings adding depth and 'Coquine' has a little more tension in the synergic sounds, pop, crackle and fizzes with pepper the cavernous dub rhythm. 'Besos Robados' and 'Elio's Lived Behind My House Forever' bring more propulsive rhythms but are still defined by the deftness of their sound designs.

Review: An eagerly awaited repress of DJ Shepdog's 2006 mashup of Damian Marley's 'Welcome To Jamrock' with Dead Prez's 'It's Bigger Than Hip Hop', effortlessly juxtaposing one of contemporary dancehall's most iconic vocals with undeniably one of the fattest basslines ever laid. This iconic pairing is flanked by ultra fun cut 'Sleng Hop' uniting the original Dead Prez acapella with another of the world's most famous basslines- Prince Jammy's Casiotone MT-40 'rock & roll' rhythm... You do the math!