New release from Pangaea out on Hessle Audio, the label founded by, and releasing records for Untold, TRG, Ben UFO, Rammadanman, and all his other strange aliases. This self titled 2x Disc EP marks the 10th release for their label, which started putting out records back in ’07. I was foremost drawn to the musical ethos of their label, which is to promote and put out music that has a lasting impression. This appealed to me because I’ve developed a distaste for disposable music. Tunes with a shelf life of a couple months. The one’s that you throw away, and don’t come back to, or don’t remember.

I suppose it would be fair to say that Pangaea is still largely an experimental outfit exploring different styles. I think if that is the case it’s great because there is still so much room to grow the sound. I’m really excited about all the innovation happening in dubstep right now, and I’m not gonna slate this EP for being off center, it’s simply my observations on my listening experience to this piece as a whole.

Tracklist:

1. Why
2. Sunset Yellow
3. 5-HTP
4. Neurons
5. Dead Living
6. Because Of You

I feel like this EP is a bit lacking in consistency. It’s almost as if there is a significant time span in between the production of these tracks. Are some of these tunes resuscitated old material? The first track, titled ‘Why’ is exactly the kind of pleasant surprise you would expect from Pangaea. It is also the first tune I started hearing get radio play and DJ support. It’s uplifting, and the hook is brilliant. It is simply genius how he collages recycled acapellas together.

Pangaea – Why (Original Mix)
[audio:2010/0110/01 Why.mp3]

Pangaea – Because Of You (Original Mix)
[audio:2010/0110/06 Because Of You.mp3]

There’s a one off half-step tune on here that could either be a nod to earlier permutations, or simply to lul the demands of the status quo. It sounds out of place – Which is a part of what what I describing as the ‘time span’ between the tracks, and also why I believe that this release could have also worked as a couple strong singles: ‘Why’ and ‘Because Of You’ – These tune’s could have been released separately as proper singles, and the the other tracks: ‘Sunset Yellow’, ’5-HTP’, and ‘Dead Living’ – These are the ones that are experimental and interesting. The ones that are hard to get a sense of time for, but maybe have something more to offer. They are the sounds that ought to be further explored and developed.

This release is available on wax, or digital, but it seems Boomkat is already sold out. The records have only been out for 2 days but Boomkat is notorious for keeping a low stock. It seems like if you want something you gotta stay on point with the pre-orders or pay stupid prices from re-sellers. Alternatively, you can download your favourite tracks or the whole EP through the Juno web store.

In an interview with On-Point.be Martyn shares a little insight into his early inspirations, his exposure to drum ‘n bass music, as well as some of his ideas about the definitive aspects of the new generation of ravers and music makers. Thankfully there are decent subtitles for our English speaking readers, as the entire interview is spoken in Dutch.

‘Great Lengths‘ was a strong debut album for Martyn, and one of my favorite albums of 2009. Word is that he’s already in the works with a follow up – I only hope that his new material is as good as the last. He’s been in high demand over the last year, touring all around Europe, and pushing dubstep into different directions. It came as no surprise to me that he’s been commissioned to do the latest FabricLive Mix – an eclectic selection of music blurring the line between techno, dubstep, house, and breakbeat, in a psychedelic loosely woven haze of rhythm.

I did the whole mix CD Live just because I thought that was more honest than doing an Ableton DJ Mix. It is how I would play live – Not everything on the CD is perfect, but it’s not meant to be.

The mix CD features a wide variety of tracks from artists: Hudson Mohawke, Altered Natives, Ben Klock, Zomby, and a whole slough of others artists at the forefront of experimental new music. The full track listing, audio clips, and order info available on the Fabric London website.

We’ve got a special treat for our readers today. I’m happy to announce the re-launch of the ‘In the Mix’ series on phase02. These are exclusive mixes done for us by artists we’ve been closely corresponding with and have developed relationships with over time. The focus for this on-going series will be to give said artist’s an opportunity to share new materials, unreleased tracks, as well as their own selection of music mixed for our readers. This is a new project for us and some things may change in the future, but we would like to invite you along for the ride.

For our first installment we’ve curated a brilliant young star known as Darling Farah. His story is really interesting, being that he was born and raised in Detroit, later moved to the Arab Emirates, and currently resides in Abu Dhabi, where he has little to no exposure with techno. I asked him what he plan’s to do when he turns 18 to which he replied – “I’ve been trying to think of some of the things i can finally do in this country now that I’m gonn be 18 soon, but i’ts still not much.”

I think this boy is fascinating, and his story is really inspiring to anyone who’s felt like an outsider. The creative artist in my eyes are usually those peoples in situations where improvisation is the means for innovative thinking. The process in itself is all that matters, and to reach the end result the quickest, and easiest way, isn’t always the best. You know how that saying goes, “less is more” – Well I firmly believe in those values, and people like Kamau prove it to be true.

Phase02 In The Mix 001 – Darling Farah
[audio:2010/0110/Phase02_In_The_Mix_001-Darling_Farah.mp3]

tracklisting:

01. Darling Farah – Excuse Girl (Unreleased)
02. M.A.N.D.Y vs Booka Shade – Donut
03. Edu K – Jumpin n Pumpin (Femme en Fourrure Remix)
04. $asha – Colludo (Unreleased)
05. ??? – ???
06. Bassjackers & Voorn -16
07. Saeed Younan – Backroom Honey
08. Noze – You Have To Dance (Mathias Kadens Beatpolka Remix)
09. Franco Maldini – Think Trumpet (Straight Goin Trumpet Mix)
10. Darling Farah – Hell (Unreleased)
11. Claude Von Stroke – Vocal Chords (Tom EQ Remix)
12. Loko – Ass Play
13. Tim Green & Emerson Todd – Exercise
14. Mosca – Square One (Greena Remix)
15. Soul Clap – Kissing Game

Darling is currently working on an EP simply titled ‘Hell’ and he’s given us a couple promo tracks for the blog. No confirmation on when or who will be releasing this EP, but to my understanding he’s still making the necessary considerations for an appropriate platform. Good things come to those who wait, so hold tight this will be well worth it.

Darling Farah – Hell (Original Mix)
[audio:2010/0110/Darling Farah-Hell.mp3]

Darling Farah – Slash Hell (Original Mix)
[audio:2010/0110/Darling Farah-Slash Hell.mp3]

This is the 4th release in a on-going series of limited edition 12″s from the newly formed vinyl imprint of Watergate. You might recall the name of this infamous club located in Berlin that’s become internationally recognized for it’s exclusivity, and the high-profile people that frequent there. Watergate has hosted so many renowned artists and DJ’s that I’m not going to attempt to start listing them here; but this is really how it’s garnered it’s reputation as a international super club. This particular release seems to be out of stock on Juno, but there are still some German stockists carrying it. You can try music-head.de or decks.de

The first track on this release is a nice subtle reworking of a tune off Martyn’s breath taking debut album “Great Lengths”. The rhythm has been reworked and simplified down to a hypnotic pulse, resonating against the syncopation of the bass – all while the trace elements of the original swirl and dip overhead. I’m quite pleased with what Sebo has done with the track, although it’s rather more a remix than an edit.

Martyn – Elden St. (Sebo K Watergate Edit)
[audio:2010/0110/Elden St (Sebo K Watergate Edit).mp3]

On the flip we’ve got a very smooth original track from Dop. The title of this track is a little cheeky considering how warm and sexy the vocals are, but I guess it’s a sort of juxtaposition and wordplay. The vocals in this track are brilliant. “It’s a cold earth” is almost whispered, repeated, and so short and few you might not realize how little there is to it.

Dop – Cold World (Original Mix)
[audio:2010/0110/02 Cold World.mp3]

Some aspects of Watergate maybe seem a bit pretentious for me, like the “no picture policy”, but it ensures no one will be exposed and scrutinized in any candid photo’s of them getting down ‘n dirty the night before. I guess this wouldn’t matter for regular folks, and I’ll admit, I don’t like having a camera being shoved in my face either; but they’ve got to do something to protect the dignity of their clientele I suppose. Maybe in the future I’ll have a chance to experience Watergate but for now I’m happily enjoying these fine recordings in the comfort of my own home.

Four Tet is going on tour in April to support the release of his massively anticipated 5th un-studio album ‘There Is Love’. Kieran has been a busy, busy, busy man; I wonder where he get’s the time to inhale and exhale like normal people? Here is an interview where he explains some of the idea’s he had for the mix he did live at BBC radio one.

In the interview, Kieran reveals that he’s collaborating with Floating points on a remix and I’m really excited to hear what they’ve done. If you haven’t heard of Floating Points before now, do yourself a favor and check out some of his tunes. The BBC mix has been uploaded to the Four Tet soundcloud page but you can also alternatively stream or download it right here.

The other mix he made was done for Plastic People – a final commemorative compilation of tracks that celebrate the experiences he’s had as a resident DJ at the club. Included in the mix are the stunning recent singles ‘Love Cry,’ ‘Moth’, ‘Sing’, the Joy Orbison mix, as well as an exclusive unheard track off the new album. This mix is also available on the Four Tet soundcloud page but again, we’ve included it right here for your convenience.

As far as I’m concerned, ‘There Is Love’ marks the first must have album of 2010. I’m a bit gutted that there isn’t a tour date for Toronto but maybe I can make it down to New York if the stars align properly. ‘There Is Love’ will be out January 26th through Domino records. Hopefully some of our readers living in major cities will have the opportunity to catch Four Tet on tour with support from Nathan Fake. If you’re planning on attending we’d like to know! Here are the dates.

02.17 New York, NY – Le Poisson Rouge
02.18 Cambridge, MA – Middle East Downstairs
02.19 Chicago, IL – Empty Bottle
02.20 Austin, TX – The Mohawk
02.23 Seattle, WA – Chop Suey
02.24 Vancouver, BC – Biltmore Cabaret
02.25 Portland, OR – Doug Fir
02.26 San Francisco, CA – The Independent
02.27 Los Angeles, CA – Echoplex

i’ve had the privileged opportunity to share some of my own thoughts with recording artist, dj, and formant records label owner, Leroy Bella aka SINES. you might recall the name from a track i posted a few months back in a little article i wrote called: future sounds of the underground.

this is a man of many faces, a jack-of-all trades sort. i’m really impressed at his ability to juggle all these different roles and still keep it tight and rolling. obviously this is no walk in the park, and i have much respect for people out there making an impression in the mold with their own cutters. what i’ve realized is true in the saying “the hardest way to make an easy living” is that it is the reality for many artists and musicians today. if you’re doing this to make money, or to be famous in the dj circuit, you’re in the wrong business.

Sines – Test One (Original Mix)
[audio:2010/0110/01 Test One (Original Mix).mp3] (buy)

Sines – Memories Are Here (Original Mix)
[audio:/0809/Memories Are Here.mp3] (buy)

more new releases available for purchase through boomkat.

T: what are your thoughts on ‘future garage’ and what does it mean to you?

L: The way I see the whole future garage thing is that it’s pretty much a whole new movement of garage and 2 step. Back in the days it was all about soulful RnB sounds, diva vocals, and the dark bass lines. Now it’s like a whole different twist up with out of this world synthesizers and crazy vocals. I love garage and all the new stuff that’s coming from it. Pretty much takes us into the now…the future.

T: yes, you’re right – we are living right here, right now. where garage used to be confined to london and perhaps even further restricted to certain communities, certain peoples, certain producers, etc. These limitations aren’t that imposing anymore. The cross pollination of music, culture, and advancements in technology, have re-defined all aspects of how people listen to, consume, and make music.

There certainly was a kind of “gel” that perhaps included a flagrant attitude and champagne bottles or whatever – but now we see these barriers completely broken with really different producers all around the world contributing to this music.

I don’t exactly agree on the name ‘Future garage’ personally, only because as time goes on it will certainly prove to sound dated; but at that time there will be new permutations, a new name, new producers, and so let’s not bother ourselves over what title fit’s the check box. it is such a square-minded way of thinking.

John the 3rd – Sexin (Sines 69 Ways Mix)
[audio:/2010/0110/John the 3rd-Sexin_Sines 69 ways mix_.mp3]

T: Where are you living right now?

L: I’m currently based in Houston, TX.

T: Do you feel detached from the UK scene, living out there? Obviously in light of what we’re discussing here it’s not necessary to be living in london to have exposure to this music, but anyone who really loves it obviously has a certain affinity to london.

L: Yeah, totally…But being around good electronic music for 10 years plus here in Texas has made it a lot easier to not feel that way. We have some very good artist here in Texas and 2010 will be a promising year for them.

T: what is the social atmosphere like in Houston? How are people there responding to your music on the dance floor?

L: There is a mixture of everything here in Houston. We have killed the dance in so many ways (laughs) good and bad. All the older “heads” who were into garage dig it. Some of the new ones too. Houston is a diverse city with many sounds. Some want that harder aggro stuff, and some want the chilled stuff. We mix it up every so often to try and match the right vibe.

T: let’s talk a bit about your record label. besides yourself, who else is involved with formant recordings?

L: Well basically it’s myself and the other half of Sines – Jae Swope (yes there are 2 of us) I handle more of the footwork while he pretty much scouts for artist. Then you have distribution which is handled by Z-Audio.

T: ah, i see! i knew there was a connection between formant and z. how about night audio?

L: We had a release on a various artists compilation EP that came out on Night Audio. The Submerse fellas and Kingthing run that label. Night Audio is still young but I’m sure they are set to blow in 2010. They got El-B next for release which should be wicked!

T: yeah i’ve been bugging kingthing about that el-b release for days! could you describe your a & r process, how do you decide what is right for your label?

L: Basically stuff that is fresh and new. I’m very keen on getting artist that are new faces to music. Someone that has alot of potential – for instance Hyetal from Bristol. His music is blowing up right now as we speak. There are so many artist out there that get overlooked.

T: why is bristol so damn radiant with seriously inspiring people? I’m a avid fan of portishead, and have also recently fell in love with the new King Midas Sound album. what is it about that place? radioactive drinking water? the air of inspiration floating in the ether? I can get quite romantic about Bristol. I recently heard hyetal featured on rob booth’s electronic exploration podcast. the mix he done was so on point i’m loving all his tunes right now!

L: Yeah man Bristol is something else. Its like the mecca of the UK. Dave (Hyetal) is such a great producer. I hope to be able to work with him again in the future.

T: can you touch on what you’ve got lined up in 2010?

L: In January we have XI from Toronto set to release his 2 new lush tracks Light Fm bw Glass. You can check them out here: soundcloud.com/formant-recordings
(our readers got the glass promo exclusive before the drop!)

Then in Feburary through March we will have a release for Daega Sound System from Vancouver. These 2 brothers are the ones to watch next year. You can check them at myspace.com/daega

Afterwards we have a Various EP planned with 3 tracks from artists: HxdB, Phaeleh, and Psychonaught. After that vvv’s joins Formant and it will be big! I have a few more tricks up my sleeves…For now, you can check out their tunes on myspace.

myspace.com/hxdb
myspace.com/phaeleh
myspace.com/unwino
myspace.com/vvvdubz

Thank you Bella for your time and big up Formant in 2010!

big thank you to all our supporters, your readership is much appreciated! watch this space throughout 2010 we’ve got some exciting content lined up. in the meanwhile, vibe on these tunes as we countdown the new year!

Broombeck – The Clapper (Dolphins Remix) / The Clapper Reclapped / Opossum Rec
[audio:2010/0110/01 The Clapper (Dolphins Remix).mp3]

Kid Kaio & Lucky Charms – This Sound Is (Homework Sound Bootcut) / NA / Whitelabel
[audio:2010/0110/This Sound Is (Homework Sound Bootcut).mp3]

Royal T – 1 Up (Martin Kemp Remix) / 1UP Or Shatap EP / No Hats No Hoods
[audio:2010/0110/02 1Up (Martin Kemp Remix).mp3]

Xi – Glass (Original Mix) / (Forthcomming) / Formant Records
[audio:2010/0110/B-XI-GLASS.mp3]

Sa Bat’ Machines – Evry (Original Mix) / Evry bw Sylvia / Kiosk Records
[audio:2010/0110/01 Evry.mp3]