Audio Love 14.8.14

Music

Haron – Optics EP (Tape Records)

The next time you see a DJ on Twitter complaining about all of the dodgy promos they have to wade through just roll your eyes and do an inward tut to yourself because there are moments when things like this pop up and it makes it all worthwhile. If you’ve not heard of them already Tape Records are a Dutch label and they’re very good. This is their 6^th release now and they welcome Haron to the fold with this beautiful, understated, spacious EP with a remix from none other than Gifted and Blessed.

We start off with “Hadouken” and it’s lovely. The pads are like slipping into a warm bath. Or something. Mellow and slightly sentimental. Then we’ve got “Raindance C” which has more of a groove to it but it’s still got that spacious feel going on. On the flip side we kick off with the lush electro of “Optics” which blends similar silky pads with a more broken rhythm section. We’ve then got an alternative version which feels a bit looser and finally the GB remix which goes a bit more crazy but is still bright and inviting. Fantastic EP. Pats on the back all round.

Out 25^th August on wax

Various Artists – Jack Off Beats 002 (Jack Off Records)

Busy times for the quality Berlin label Jack Off Records. Not only are they ready to drop the second in their excellent Jack Off Beats series but they’ve also got a very tasty 12” from Johannes Albert coming hot on it’s heels. It’s as if they’re actually trying to make it hard for us poor, embattled music reviewers. Bastards.

So this week – the Jack Off Beats comp. We’ve got a track each from Brizzle based Borai, Italian Deep88, Sasse alter ego Freestyle Man and Oliver Deutchmann. It’s a nicely varied 12” veering from clubby house, twinkly Detroit influenced techno, a stripped down, moody drum track and finally some deeeeeeep house. The aforementioned twinkly number by Borai is my pick of the bunch but I’ll definitely be playing all of these.

Out now soon on wax

Mr Top Hat and Art Alfie – KVK800 (Karlovak)

Art Alfie and Mr Top Hat, and their label Karlovak, have been slowly building in my consciousness for a while now. The Swedish duo have been quietly doing their thing putting out quality house music that ranges from weird, abstract noodlings to solid dancefloor pumpers. This current release falls squarely in the latter bracket as they offer up two tracks of chunky house music.

On the A side we’ve got “Limehouse Afternoon” which takes a nice bit of looped up disco string and plays around with it over a classic house beat. On the flip “Karlssons Dub” is a bit moodier but still sticking with the vibe. This record isn’t breaking down the barriers, but it will make you dance. I promise.

Out on wax on the 25^th August

Edward – Into a Better Future LP (Giegling)

Finally we’ve got this LP from a personal fav of mine Edward coming up in September so put this on your “try to remember to check this out next month” list. I’ve been a fan of this guy for a while so I was intrigued to check out his second long player. It’s a varied affair, with oddball house, afro-influenced experimentalism and out there soundscapes. “Skating Beats” is an absolute monster. Every track is spot on and really showcases the quality of this guys productions. Bravo.

Keep your eyes peeled next month for this badboy.