Introducing CUTTING AGENTS

Sam Lewis, aka Cutting Agents, has been into music since being surrounded by Jazz and Northern Soul from an early age. It was after a move from South London to Birmingham University at 18 that a shift from urban music made room for a new found love for House music. After learning the skills to produce by writing hip-hop beats, Cutting Agents was created as an outlet for his new style.

Girl - Cutting Agents


His latest track, 'Girls', has been getting a lot of well deserved attention as his production skills continue to grow. If these two tracks - which are both available for download - are anything to go by, Cutting Agents is a name you'll be hearing a lot from.

Got You - Cutting Agents


If you like what you hear you can grab his latest mix here, or you can catch Cutting Agents live this Summer at Relentless Energy Drink NASS Festival, Nozstock Festival, Mischief Festival and at No.1 in Stratford Upon Avon on 29th August. You can also see Sam on tour with his band Kingdoms.

Featuring SKUDGE

As you probably well know, we love Skudge and their record label around these parts. Recently they announced that they will be releasing their back-catalogue digitally and 001, which features 'Convolution' with 'Contamination' on the flip, is now available to purchase on Beatport. We'd advise you to hop over there now if you haven't already got the vinyl.



They also recently played live in Berlin at the infamous Berghain. Unfortunately we were there one week before them but can only imagine it sounded incredible on that system. Get this recording of it on the download quick sharp.

Skudge Live PA @ Berghain, Berlin June 2012

Featuring WK7/HEAD HIGH (AKA SHED)

René Pawlowitz is a man who operates under many different aliases, but is possibly best known for his output as Shed. On his latest release the Berlin-based producer dons his WK7 guise on the A side for 'Do It Yourself' and his Head High guise on the flip for 'Rave (Dirt Mix)'.

'Do it yourself' is a real feel good track consisting of killer keyboard chords, an uplifting vocal hook and a powerful bassline, perfect for summer. 'Rave' appropriately takes on the title 'dirt mix', a thunderous bassline paired with half-time high hats makes for a gritty techno stomper. However, there is a change of pace after two minutes when a gentle floating synth melody is introduced to help cushion the forceful beat. This brilliant juxtaposition of two contrasting themes demonstrates the intelligence of Pawlowitz's productions.



The release has been out for around a month now on Power House and is still available at most of the usual outlets, but it is selling out so don't sleep on it if you want to pick it up! You can pick up the release on digital as well but it seems as though it's only available through Beatport or Hard Wax.

Featuring JON CONVEX

Since taking a break from producing alongside his partner in crime Boddika, Jon Convex has been honing his own personal sound and has put out a handful of releases on imprints such as 3024 and Naked Lunch. He now plans to release a full length album on his own label Convex Industries, and a four track sampler EP, Idoru EP1 has just been released - the first of two.

The lead track off the first EP, 'Fade', has a grungey 80's vibe to it and would fit nicely into the acclaimed Autonomic podcast series. A gnarly synth bassline plays off against a morose harmonised vocal and a glistening riff. Perhaps taking a cue from his buddy d:Bridge, Convex has opted to lay down his own vocals and the results are impressive. No news yet on whether the final album will feature more of his vocals.

Fade - Jon Convex [Convex Industries]

Convex says that "over the last year every minute has been spent working or thinking about the album". Aside from preparing an audio/visual show to accompany the release he's also been getting to grips with new hardware and synths that have shaped the forthcoming release. The time spent mastering his new tools is evident on two other tracks from the sampler; Shadows and New Model, which respectively feature dubbed out chords against a rolling growly bass and a jacking techno beat with an airy sweeping bassline.

Shadows - Jon Convex [Convex Industries]


The first of the two EPs is available now and also features a remix of 'Fade' by G.Vump

01. Fade
02. New Model
03. What I Need (featuring Velvit)
04. Four Faces
05. Aversion
06. About Her
07. Shadows
08. Desolation
09. No Love (featuring Breakage)
10. Idoru

The full Idoru LP is due for release in July.

Featuring A MADE UP SOUND

When it rains, it pours. Dave Huismans, the man behind 2562 and A Made Up Sound, makes a return with not one but two new releases for the summer.

A Made Up Sound - Malfunction (Despair) [forthcoming 50 Weapons]
 

First up is a release on 50 Weapons titled Malfunction and as with previous releases there are two drastically different versions on each side. It hard to believe both came from the same idea but there is no mistaking the quality of both finished products.

A Made Up Sound - Archive II [forthcoming Clone Basement Series]


Next is a follow up to AMUS previous effort on Clone, Archive II, which is a lot more melodic by comparison. 'Hang Up' is a Disco inspired dance floor heater while 'Sweetback' is straight to business with the Techno vibes.

Both of these releases will be out next month so keep your eyes peeled for the promos.

Featuring LOCKED GROOVE

This week sees a second release this month from up and coming Belgian producer Tim Van de Meutter, aka Locked Groove.

Locked Groove - Different Paths [Turbo Recordings]


First up was the Different Paths EP, which came out at the beginning of the month on Turbo, which showcased three very different styles from Locked Groove, including the throw back to early Techno 'Back to 91' and the forward thinking title track 'Different Paths'

Locked Groove - Keep It Simple EP [Hotflush Recordings]


His second outing, which is his second release on Hotflush, the Keep It Simple EP certainly has more of a deep house feel to it than previous releases but is simple and effective. 'Keep Running' and 'Aller Simple' will both get feet moving with their deep grooves but the third track 'Even' is the most interesting and revealing track of all with a definite hint of late night soul searching to it.

Both of these releases are available now from all the regular spots

Introducing PARASSELA

Blawan and The Analogue Cops have teamed up once again, this time to put out the first release on their new label Parassela. The trio are renowned for being staunch advocates of vinyl and have therefore decided to make Parassela a strictly analogue affair, only producing limited pressings of each release on hand written white labels. This debut EP reflects perfectly the stripped back aesthetic that has been created for the label, raw and atmospheric analogue sounds that require no flair in presentation to pack a full punch. You can buy the EP from Clone now.



Blawan has hit a formidable run of form lately with his contribution to the latest Frozen Border compilation and his forthcoming release on Black Sun Records, so if you haven't checked out those two releases yet they are well worth a listen! You can buy the Minutes In Ice compilation from Juno now but the release date for Black Sun 5 still eludes us, won't be long now though. Still no official news on the other Blawan tracks floating around the internet at the moment but if you're to believe the youtube comments it looks like His Money and They Choose To Bury Here (Why They Hide Their Bodies Under My Garage) will be released on white label due to difficulties clearing the Fugees samples used.

Featuring INSTRUMENTS OF RAPTURE

After three years of top quality disco fuelled output Graeme Clark (AKA The Revenge) has decided to say farewell to his label Instruments Of Rapture. The silver lining to this disappointing news is that we have one final 3xLP to look forward to, featuring tracks and remixes from label regulars as well as a couple of new faces. The LP is everything we have come to expect from IOR and is the perfect send off for the brief yet highly lauded series. The full track list and clips for the LP are below.

OOFT - "Make You Mine"
Craig Bratley - "Birdshell" (The Revenge bonus dub)
Gazeebo - "Last Night"
Deep Space Orchestra - "Mirage"
Tornado Wallace - "Rainbow Road" (Lewie's Bowser Castle remix)
6th Borough Project - "Home Alone"
Cronk Family Enterprises - "Put It On" (dub)
Daniel Solar - "Stingray"
Mirage (RIBN remix)



You'll be able to pick up the release now from Juno.

Featuring PARIAH

Pariah doesn't release music that often. In fact his Rift EP, that is forthcoming this month on R&S Records, is surprisingly only his third solo release. That is not to say that he doesn't keep busy with other projects, most notably his collaboration with Blawan on their Karenn project and their label, She Works The Long Nights.

Orpheus - Pariah [R&S Records]


If you are not familiar with Pariah's previous releases, the fantastic Detroit Falls / Orpheus and Safehouses EP, the progression of his sound won't be so profound. The three new tracks from the Rift EP are definitely a extension of his work with Blawan but are less dance floor orientated and much more complex and layered. What results is a great release that showcases Pariah's great skills as a producer and definitely cements his place at the forefront of electronic music.

Signal Loss - Pariah [forthcoming R&S Records]


The EP is out on the 18th of June digitally via all good music retailers but promo vinyls are out now. You can also catch Pariah tonight in Leeds at The Garage alongside Akkord, Guy Andrews and South London Ordnance.

Preview: Echo Festival

It seems Croatia is fast becoming everyone's favourite festival destination and things are kicking off very soon with Echo Festival commencing on the 22nd June. Set in the picturesque bay of Makarska, soaked in wonderful Croatian sunshine and complete with a lineup of the some of the best underground house, techno and UK music, Echo will be the perfect way to start your summer holidays.

Melodies feat. Mike Knight - SpectraSoul [EXIT]


Pariah, Koreless, Midland, Deadboy and Hackman head up the bill of artists, so it's not hard to see why we are excited about this one. The likes of S.P.Y. and SpectraSoul delve into the higher tempos to keep you moving and Cluekid, Tes La Rok and Von D are ideal for those who still like the deeper side of 140.

Fossil - Cluekid




The organisers are keen to keep the vibe nice and laidback with beach parties and showcases hosted by the likes of Well Rounded, Church and your very own Hush House. And if that's not quite enough, for those with nerves of steel there's a 24-hour private bungee jump on site as well as the chance to try your hand at some watersports.

Close - Hackman [Greco-Roman]


With cheap drinks and accommodation and last-minute flights still available, why not join the fun? Click here for the full line up, £45 tickets and more information. We'll see you by the bar!

George FitzGerald - Child EP

With releases on Hotflush and his own Man Make Music imprint under his belt, George FitzGerald returns to Aus with yet another outstanding release. The Child EP is four layers of some of his best work to date including the very club friendly title track 'Child' and the deep, fantastic 'Lights Out'.



The EP is set for release next week in vinyl and digital formats but you can grab a sneaky upfront exclusive copy via Beatport from today.

Featuring MICKEY PEARCE

To follow up to his carefully-crafted Swamp 81 single, Mickey Pearce joins the Ten Thousand Yen camp for the release of an equally exciting 12".

Tempted (F+ck Tonto Edit) - Mickey Pearce [f'coming Ten Thousand Yen]


The military shuffle of 'Tempted' might already sound familiar, there's little bassline to speak of but the kick drum itself takes care of that. Pearce's rigid drum programming is accompanied by the sounds of a tribal whistle, vaguely reminiscent of Breach's 'Fatherless', and an eery piano sample throughout the breakdown. Whilst 'Softly Softly' takes the tempo down to 115, it ploughs through with equal ferocity, acting as the A-side's groovier younger brother.

Softly Softly - Mickey Pearce [forthcoming Ten Thousand Yen]


[TTY008] is available to pre-order on vinyl now, with digital copies to be released Monday 11th June. Fingers crossed for another Mickey release before the end of the year!

Preview: Dimensions 2012

2012 sees the debut of a new festival from the organisers of Outlook. Set in the same stunning location, Fort Punta Christo in Croatia, Dimensions will take place from 6-9 September. Beach parties, boat parties and a whole host of different activities will be on during the day followed by a trip up to the fort as the sun sets. Being just one week after Outlook, you can expect the heaviest sound-systems still to be in place combined with underground art culture installations all backdropped by the picturesque Adriatic landscape. The lineup is outstanding and spans across the deeper side of the electronic music spectrum, catering for all tastes from Dubstep to Disco and Techno to Drum & Bass. The full line-up is listed below.



2562 / Akkord / Alexander Nut / Amit / Andrew Weatherall / Anstam / Anxst / Arnaldo / Arszenik / Auntie Flo / Author / Axel Boman / Bane / Barker / Bebetto / Ben Klock / Ben UFO / Benji B / Blacksmif / Blawan / Boddika / Butter Side Up / Carl Craig presents 69 Live / Cassy / Consequence / Cymatic / David Martin / DBridge / Deadbeat / DJ Rum / Dub Phizix / Dyed Soundorom / Eddy Ramich / Electric Wire Hustle / Eli & Fur / Eliphino / Fatima (live) / Floating Points / Four Tet Live / Funkineven / George Fitzgerald / Gold Panda / Henry Zest / Hint (Tru Thoughts) / Huxley / Indigo / Iration Steppas / Jack Sparrow / James Fox / Jimmy Edgar / Jinna Morocha / Joel Mull / John Talabot / Jon Phonics / Joy Orbison / Jozef K / Juniper/ Kassem Mosse / Kode 9 / Koreless / Kozee / Kyle Hall / Legaspi / Leon Vynehall / Levon Vincent / Little Dragon / Locked Groove / Loefah / Lone / Lorca / Loxy / Machine Drum / Mala – Digital Mystikz / Marcel Dettmann / Mark Turner / Midland / Moodymann / Morgan Geist – Metro Area / Motor City Drum Ensemble / Mount Kimbie Live / Moxie / Mungo’s HiFi / N>E>D / Nathan Fake / Nick James / Nordic Soul / Objekt / Pangaea / Pariah / Paul Spymania / Pearson Sound / Petar Dundov / Pinch / Planas / Portico Quartet / Pusherman / Roman Flügel / Rough Fields / Royalty / Ruckspin / Rumah / Ryan Elliott / Sai / Samaan / Scuba / Sei A / Seiji / Sergej / Shackleton / Shox / Sigha / Simbad / Slugrave / South London Ordnance / SP:MC / Space Dimensions Controller / Surgeon / Synkro / Tessela / The Chain / Theo Parrish / Todd Terje / Tom Middleton / TOYC / Trikk / Untold / Visionist / Zed Bias

Showcases from: 20:20 Vision / Aka Aka Roar / Audio Doughnuts / Crazylegs / Decibel / Eglo / Exit Records / Flux / Hessle Audio / Leisure System / Modern Amusement / R & S Records / Selective Hearing / Sirup Nation / Sound of the Cosmos / Sub:Stance / Swamp 81 / Trix

The incredible combination of line-up and location makes Dimensions an essential festival to put on the calendar this summer. Tickets cost £120 + booking fee and can be bought from here. Tickets give you access to the full four days and three nights of music. Accommodation and travel need to be paid for separately, information for which can be found on the Dimensions website. Boat Party line ups will be announced soon with tickets going on sale sometime this month. We're excited already! See you in the sun!



Here's a mix from David Huismans under his 2562 alias to get you in the mood.

2562 - Solid Steel Radio Mix March 2012