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Audiation

"Share what you were blessed with and use it for good, for spreading love and light."

Audiation Magazine is a global monthly music publication which is free to read online and available for on demand print purchases. We feature all styles of music and various languages in the magazine, each piece is an expression of what our writers and featured artists wish to show. We do not have set rules and allow the words to come naturally with few edits. Articles are not constrained to simply music - we like to be broad in the way we express our passion and include a variety of topics including poetry, fashion and l i f e s t y l e . E a c h c h o s e n t o p i c w i l l r e fl e c t t h e t h o u g h t s o f t h e writer and revolve around music in some way. The m a g a z i n e i s f r e e t o r e a d a s w e u n d e r s t a n d t h e d i ffi c u l t y i n which creative individuals face when trying to go far, thus we want to help their talents reach as much of the world as possible. We have wonderful partners, Vinyl For A Cause bring together their favourite musicians with a percentage of proceeds going to charity, and, Right Chord Music who help to promote and develop interesting independent musicians.

We wish to inspire minds, express creativity and radiate optimism to the world through music.

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"Music is much more than sound. Music can be a comforter, party maker, career path or a way of life."

Ruby, Editor & Owner "Music is much more than sound. Music can be a comforter, party maker, career path or a way of life."

Rokuro, Associate Editor "The birth of one's child is the only feeling that comes close to getting lost in music."

Cessle, Associate Editor "Music is a form of art that reveals a truth in a world full of mystery."

Sarah, Staff Writer

"No matter what's happening in life, it's usually great music will keep you going."

Malachi, Staff Writer "Music is life. It's a universal language that has no barriers. It unifies people around the world.

It brings people joy."

Andy, Staff Writer "Music & love are the same things really. If kids grew up with music in their lives, then their lives would always be filled with love."

David, Associate Editor

"The moment you feel happy about music, that is the very essence of it.

Being in the vibes and understanding what music has for your soul."

Steve, Staff Writer "Music is the way I see the world."

Mary, Brand Ambassador

"It's an escape, a relaase, a chance to write how I feel and allow other readers to relate. Music has saved me many times."

Jessie, Staff Writer "Music is love, you can feel it. Music binds people together, ending war and bringing peace to the soul."

Ashna, Creative Assistant "Music is a material artwork of my dreams that inspires me to overcome difficulties of everyday life. I admire people who can make it!"

Tamara, Brand Ambassador "You know you are a music addict when you get a natural high when you hear a tune you love!"

Christina, Vice President "Music is my Truth.

Techno is my Heart. Love the mediator that led to a connected, liberating, beautiful, surrender to my inner peace."

Sharm, Staff Writer

Thanks to: D-Vox In Control Recordings InfraProgressive Neighbourhood PR Perfecto Fluora Planetlove Records Serious Records Space Promotions TAG Publicity Universal Music Group Icons & graphics by Creative_hat Starline kues1 Onlyyouqj Kjpargeter Alekksall freepik.com

CONTENTS 8 Shows Guide 10 Three Mood-Setting Tracks For 2019 12 Top Picks For January 2019 14 D-Vox 20 Alo! Ki zot pe dir? Hello!

What's up?

21 Circoloco In Thailand 23 New Music 38 Events Guide 43 REWIND 2018

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Hi Guys & Dolls...

A trendy shot of DJ & vocalist D-Vox in the mix is featured on the front cover, the back cover displays more of the lovely greenery from this photo. Welcome to the first issue of 2019! We’re looking forward to another great year in music and creativity. There will also be a few changes from us, the first being our distributor switchover. We have been with Joomag from the very beginning with it having everything we needed to build up the magazine and reach all of you readers. Unfortunately, due to costs, we will soon discontinue our distribution through Joomag. Don’t worry, the magazine will still be available to read for free with our various other distributors and there will be no loss of quality.

Though here we say many thanks to Joomag for such a wonderful service, we highly recommend them for anyone in publishing. Please subscribe through our website form to stay updated with us: www.audiationmagazine.com/subscribe In this issue: I’m feeling reenergised and kickstart the year with three tracks to set the mood from rebellious guitars to modern dance sounds to warm pianos.

Music aimed at the dance floor does not have to all be generic. Cessle takes us through the hottest upcoming tracks and events to check out in the house & techno scene. The only barrier between you and achieving your goals is your own attitude. Sharm chats with the passionate, heartfelt vocalist & talented DJ from the UK - Daniela Rhodes AKA D-Vox. Alo, ki zot pe dir? Hello, what’s up?

Steve is embracing change with a #feelgood attitude and positive ambient music from ChillOutDeer. One of Ibiza’s most prestigious parties heads to South East Asia. Cessle gives us the lowdown as Circoloco hits Thailand with heavyweights including Seth Troxler, Peggy Gou, Nic Fanciulli and wAFF. Take a look back at the Audiation 2018 highlights with the LakeShake festival, sounds of Azerbaijan, Daniel Wanrooy’s summer gig diary, JJ Riordan creating music from his flat and an interview with Original Dodger. We've got your events guide, show listings and music from Grayson Erhard, Phebe Edwards, Matoma and Rhys Lewis.

Ruby x Connect with us: Facebook /AudiationMagazine Twitter @AudiationMag

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Happy New Year!

SHOWS London timezone TV | Radio | Podcast Spotlight: We've got highlights of Kaz'Out music festival and Royauté beach party in Mauritius. Two fantastic and unique events, both showcasing incredible talent from a variety of genres. Watch the videos on www.youtube.com/AudiationTV Monday 10am Clara Amfo | Variety - BBC Radio 1 2pm Danny Blaze | House, UK Garage & Club Classics - Flex FM 4pm Trending Live | Variety - 4Music

Tuesday 1am What’s Up? | Variety - Radio Plus 10am Clara Amfo | Variety - BBC Radio 1 4pm Trending Live | Variety - 4Music Sister Bliss In Session | House & Dance A State Of Trance | Trance

Wednesday 1am What’s Up? | Variety - Radio Plus 10am Clara Amfo | Variety - BBC Radio 1 4pm Trending Live | Variety - 4Music 8pm D3ep In The Underground | House, Garage & Bass - D3EP

Thursday 1am What’s Up? | Variety - Radio Plus 10am Clara Amfo | Variety - BBC Radio 1 4pm Trending Live | Variety - 4Music 6pm Jeremy Sylvester | House & UK Garage - Urban Dubz Facebook Toolroom Radio | House & Dance

Global Warm Up | House & Dance

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Friday 1am What’s Up? | Variety - Radio Plus 10am Clara Amfo | Variety - BBC Radio 1 12pm Lizzie Curious | Dance - Trickstar Radio 2pm Sam Supplier | House, UK Garage & Bass - Rinse FM 5pm The Dirty Outlaws | Variety - Touch FM Live 7pm Annie Mac | Dance - BBC Radio 1 7pm Friday Night Kiss with Steve Smart | Club - KISS FM UK 7pm Vibe And Drive | Variety - Radio Plus 8pm The Queen E Show | Grime, Hip Hop & RnB - DJQueen-E.com 9pm Pete Tong | Dance - BBC Radio 1 9pm Wideboys | House & UK Garage - KISSTORY 10pm Mike Delinquent | House & UK Garage - KISSTORY Trustnobody | House & Techno Hospital Records | Drum & Bass Above & Beyond Group Therapy | Trance Clublife | Club

Saturday 1am What’s Up? | Variety - Radio Plus 3pm Kiss Fresh with Swarzy | Hip Hop & RnB - KISS FRESH 4pm Mark Radford | Tech House - Rinse FM 6pm The Music Box | House - D3EP 8pm Saturday Night Kiss with Steve Smart | Club - KISS FM UK 9pm Saturday Night Kiss Fresh with Charlie Hedges | Dance - KISS FRESH 11pm Saturday Night Kiss Fresh with DJ S.K.T | House, Techno & Bass - KISS FRESH

Sunday 10am Neev | Variety - KISS FM UK

The Beauty Of Sound | Trance UKF Podcast | Bass The Chillout Lounge Mix | Chillout HeavyBeatsRadio | Club Clubbing Culture | Club

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THREE MOOD-SETTING TRACKS FOR

2019 cuts through the tension of the previous year and brings an air of strength and optimism. I'm feeling energised right now by bold guitar-lead melodies, lively tempos and lyrics surrounding determination. It's the kickstart we all need to fight back and get empowered.

One song I cannot get out of my head is ‘Banquet’ by Bloc Party.

Although it was released over 10 years ago, hearing it again in the new Pelaton ‘Inside A Class’ ad has grabbed my attention.

That rebellious attitude, the pumping beat and an electrifying guitar riff.

The next song choice is of a completely different vibe and intrigued me just within the first week of the year. The only problem is that it hasn’t been released yet nor has a title been announced… All I can say is that it’s by Eli & Fur, as heard on the Kayak ‘Travel Pros’ advert. The track has an interesting taste of curiosity and wonder with playful experimentation and exploration in Japan. The contemporary dance sound also feels like a teaser of what we can expect to hear this year in the music world.

The third track? Well, here's where I leave it up to you. This is where you think about your own journey, emotions and dreams.

This will be a song that strengthens what ever your heart is saying. For me, I've chosen 'Feel My Needs' by Weiss. There’s just a huge, beautiful blossoming sensation of love in this song.

The piano melody warms your heart together with the wishes and desires felt through the vocals.

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Darling I look up at the sun The rising of another dawn Things gonna be alright if love is around...

Jain - Alright

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With the 2018 festivities having come to an end and the last party poppers having been popped to see in the new year, the music industry gets its head down and back to business. This may be the first year that we start January with no BPM Mexico but musically there is so much to look forward to in 2019. Darius Syrossian steps up things with his MOXY MUSIK project, releasing fresh music and taking his new brand on tour in February with the purpose of showing that music aimed at the dancefloor does not have to all be generic. The 1st release on the label is entitled “Dance of The Shaman” and features remixes from Man Power, Doc Martin, East End Dubz, and Shaf Huse. Talking of The Shaman, The original chart-topping, all round music genius, Top of the Pop popping shaman, aka underground music artist MR C hosts a killer line up for Superfreq’s 17th birthday. He will be joined by the likes of Steve Bug, Scuba and Marc Houle for no doubt what will be a mega night in East London. The Pickle Factory over in East London has some gem of events to tickle many a man. In their small intimate space throughout January they have the likes of Jane Fitz, Konstantin Sibold and the legendary Andrew Weatherall gracing the decks. The legendary antics at Kappa Futur festival and Junction 2 are set to continue this June as Techno runs riot across Italy and England.

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TOP PICKS FOR JANUARY 2019 Melanie Ribbe – Get It Right The German born, Jamaican raised artist makes herself known with her debut releases on Moon Harbour Records. This groove filled dancefloor track is set to to damage to many a set.

Jacky – Another Place (Huxley remix) This remix comes as part of a 4 track package as the 1st release on Jacky’s new label Jacky & Friends. Huxley delivers another masterclass with a touch of a garage feel that just rolls.

Darius Syrossian - Dance Of The Shaman EP I couldn’t pick between all the tracks on offer from this EP. on Moxy Musik Each and every track offers up a different feel using the same clever vocals.

There is literally a remix for every type of set. Shaf Huse, Doc Martin, East End Dubs and Man Power all offer up their own renditions.

Cessle

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A PASSIONATE, HEARTFELT VOCALIST & TALENTED DJ FROM THE UK – DANIELA RHODES a.k.a D-VOX

completely by ear with no musical training, she has the ability to create vocal melodies with meaningful lyrics to accompany electronic productions, and has been sealing her professional reputation within the music community with a string of drum and bass, house, progressive and down tempo collaborative releases. With more collaborations in progress and worldwide DJ bookings continuing to steadily roll in, the year ahead looks very exciting for this passionate, driven vocalist and DJ. Who knows where her music will take her as she continues to surprise with her versatility, dedication and determination to achieve her potential and spread love and light through music as far and wide as she can.

There will be people you meet in this world who make an impact on you before you actually meet them in person. Daniela is one of those souls.

Our energies collided back in 2016, the exact date I’m not certain, though her contagious positive energy left an indelible mark. Dear World, I introduce you to a multi-talented female DJ whose main trajectory is all about the Daniela took time out to let us into her music. A Beautiful Soul. journey of truth. Here’s what she has to share with the world…

Daniela Rhodes aka D-Vox is a multigenre international DJ, vocalist and How did it all start for you? radio presenter. Having played in Ibiza, Ayia Napa, Switzerland, Australia and Well, I was about 15 when I heard held residency in The Maldives, she is Yomanda 'Synth & Strings' on the radio wowing crowds all over with her head whilst working my Saturday job at a local turning DJ sets incorporating her live, Aquarium in my home town of Leighton ambient vocals spreading words of Buzzard in the UK. In that moment, I had inspiration out to her audiences. She to find more music like it. Daft Punk 'Da hosts a popular and interactive live Funk', Basement Jaxx 'Red Alert' and Tori radio show on Afro*disiac Live Radio in Amos 'Professional Widow' really made Bournemouth UK for the last four years my ears twitch and I still love to drop and holds several local residencies these tracks in my sets when I can fit offering techno, trance, house, breaks, them in. Discovering UK Garage had a dnb, electro swing and more. huge influence on me as a vocalist too, I know all the words to most of the Daniela has also been collaborating classics! with producers over the last two years and is now becoming recognised for her vocal skills in the studio. Working 14

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What do you love playing the most?

What single night out has been the most Oooh that’s a hard question for me! memorable for you as a DJ? As an Different styles do different things to attendee? my soul. I get lost in deep, grooving, percussive techno. But I found techno As an attendee, it has to be Space in Ibiza quite late on my journey. My heart witnessing Richie Hawtin play a breathes hard dance of course, as it’s mesmerizing 4 hour set in 2012. That where this all started. Drum and bass has to be one of the most incredible has a lot of pace and makes me bounce moments of my life. The man is a genius behind the decks, it gets me really and the light show was unreal. As a DJ, energized – even when I’m playing I’d have to say the whole hour of my set liquid dnb I feel injected with energy. I played in The Baby Box at Ministry Of I’ve recently started playing breaks too, Sound in London in 2015. I literally boy is it fun! couldn’t believe I was there and had recurring butterflies from beginning to Favourite food? end. It was an amazing experience and I’d love to return one day, main room TOFU! next time!

Who’s your muse in the music world?

What are your future plans for your music career?

Nina Simone - what an inspirational lady she was.

Well, I have been working with a lot of producers over the last year and a half and have been releasing a steady stream of collaborations across genres. My plan ‘Life opens up opportunities is to continue providing vocals for as for you. You either take many producers as I can. I love it when them or you stay afraid of I get a request from a producer asking taking them’. Jim Carrey me to do something a little different to what I am used to. I thrive on pushing myself to experiment and be a better vocalist. As a DJ, I am loving hosting my How would you describe the dance live radio show on Bournemouth’s No.1 scene in Sydney? station Afro*disiac Live Radio. I have been with the station for just over 4 I stayed in Sydney when I was traveling years now and I can’t get enough. In on a work visa back in 2006 for three 2019 I hope to have a few more months and had a great time. I can international guests join me in the remember going to a club all night, studio to share their love of music with walking out and walking right into me and the listeners. I would absolutely another one and carrying on for another LOVE it if you could join me Sharm! I 8 hours! Sydney never slept back then. have also been doing 16

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some writing work for London based progressive record label Flemcy Music and have my feelers our for writing opportunities with dance music magazines too. All in all, I’m just going to keep pushing myself as much as I can creatively and in turn I hope to encourage others around me to do the same.

I was travelling, landing a warm up set at a club in Switzerland that my friend networked for me whilst working out there. Even after doing a great job on these occasions, I continued to just dream of being a professional DJ and vocalist. I certainly never thought I'd be able to do both of them simultaneously one day. I have been DJing now for 15 years but only started to believe I could make a career out of this 4 or so years ago. I woke up one day and realised I could achieve my dream, that anyone can achieve their dream and I use my platform for spreading this message out to the masses via the lyrics I sing in my sets - to take action and put the wheels in motion to get to work on achieving their goals and dreams, amongst other things. If you know you have a musical gift, don’t waste it. Share what you were blessed with and use it for good, for spreading love and light. Sharing what you do and striving to be better and grow, will encourage others to do the same – the positivity that spreads as a result lifts the spirits of the whole world.

Favourite holiday destination?

Amsterdam and Berlin. I’d love to live in What is your advice to emerging talent both of these cities and I’ll be making and how they can set aside any fears sure I do one day! I’m hoping that music and pursue their dreams with courage? will take me there, I believe it will!

Well, I spent a long time dabbling with DJing, playing in my bedroom, at house parties and landing the odd birthday party or club gig here and there. I remember hustling my way to a back to back set at a Oceana in Milton Keynes when I was in my early twenties, networking for a slot, singing vocals with a dnb DJ at a bar in Melbourne when

What are the things that bug you about the DJ scene?

Hmm. One thing has to be female DJs who use their body to sell what they are doing. I don’t have a lot of respect for these superficial ‘look at me’ DJs. For me is should be ALL about the music. Let the music do the talking, not your 17

skin. Something else is DJs who pay producers to write tunes for them, so they can play them in sets and soak up all the glory. I can’t think of anything that would make me feel more uncomfortable than pretending to be something I am not, playing someone else’s tune and claiming it’s my own. I don’t know how these DJs sleep at night, it’s just not right I my opinion.

Name one track that never gets old for you no matter how many times you hear it?

feeling like I wanted to make the crowd go nuts like that and like I HAD to DJ. Female techno DJ and producer Nicole Moudaber has inspired me so much. I just love her production and DJ style, her attitude towards her career and to her fans. She is such a good role model for the aspiring female DJ community and represents women in a male dominated industry with sheer class. I stumbled upon her playing live at a bar on the beach around the corner from Ushuaia in Ibiza, I didn't leave until her set was over. She was amazing. I love her! I saw her play the opening Resistance party at Privilege in Ibiza last year, she was back to back with Victor Calderone. They blew my mind!

Ahhh.. ‘Latin Fever’ by Wolfgang Gartner. Every time I drop this in a set the crowd goes wild – and so do I! It’s just so funky, chunky and brings that perfect, percussive, Latin party vibe From a vocals perspective, soulful RnB every time. That track does crazy things singer India Arie has played a huge role. to me!

I must have listened to her award winning ‘Voyage To India' album a If you could get eternally stuck in one thousand times since it crossed my path year's music scene, which year would when I was 19. I think the soulful that be? element to my voice originates from singing along to her songs. The emotion I think it would have to be not a single she delivers when singing her deep year but a decade. The 90s without a lyrics is amazing. She sings from her doubt. The house music, the rave music, heart about her rise to fame, her the trance, the dnb, even the pop music struggles and about the important in the 90s was innovative, creative and things we all need to remember and be emotive. thankful for. I try to steer my own lyrics in this sort of direction to inspire others Who do you aspire to and who to be the best they can be. influenced you the most?

Any parting thoughts for emerging From a DJ perspective I'd have to say artists? early Tiesto. I was in awe of him at Godskitchen's 4th birthday at The NEVER GIVE UP on your dreams of Sanctuary in Milton Keynes back in making music your life. You can do and 2001. He dropped 'Joy Energizer' by Joy be anything you want in life. The only Kitikonti and the crowd went absolutely barrier between you and achieving your mental, including me. I remember goals or not achieving them is your own 18

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attitude. Every now and again I’ll receive a message from a young DJ asking me for advice on how to get more gigs. And my response is always the same. Go out to the venues where you want to play, meet other DJs and promoters. You have to network. Your dreams are not going to come to you. If you sit at home looking at others who are living their dream, the dream you want, and you think ‘ohhh I want that, why do THEY have it and I don’t’, the answer is because they are up and out of their seat and have chosen not to sit at home thinking that way like you are.

Stop whining, take a deep breath, start believing you can make it all happen, get a piece of paper and write down a few things you need to do to make a start. You may not have any social media pages, so get this on your to do list. You might not have any recorded mixes, so start recording some and uploading them online and share with the world.

You have to put yourself out there or you won’t be discovered. Every time you tick something off your list I guarantee you’ll feel so empowered about what you have achieved that you will acquire the inspiration to get more things done in order to move closer to your end goals. They may be far away, but take a baby step a day and imagine where you’ll be in 2, 5 or 10 years time.

You will have changed your life dramatically by then and be living your dream! On your marks, get set… GO! __________________________________ www.facebook.com/dvoxdj www.mixcloud.com/dvoxdj

Sharm

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Alo! Ki zot pe dir?

Hello! What's up?

Greetings from the island, hoping you guys are doing great and that #twenty18 treated you well. #twenty19 started some days back and the overall feeling is that people around are embracing #change; and that's a wooing #feelgoodattitude.

When you faced downers and trials, hit to the ground, one option you have is to summon all forces deep within, slam the ground and stand up. Stand for another chance of facing life and win over whatever challenges coming your way.

One thing I have learned, is never give up!

Life always brings you gifts to help you out of your turmoil. Recently I have experienced fast-paced, oppressing situations, able to crush you down whilst getting you twisted in a never-ending overthinking session. Well one of my received gifts is the #ambientmix. Soothing with refreshing notes and bringing positive vibes as required.

My share this new year are the mixes from ChillOutDeer: https://gaming.youtube.com/chilloutdeer Enjoy and have a blast on this New Year!

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Stv

Circoloco In Thailand 2019 was not long around the corner and Circoloco already began preparations to kick things off with a storm on January 19th. The team behind one of Ibiza’s most prestigious parties have announced a first ever show in South East Asia at the awardwinning Baba Beach Club in Phuket, Thailand with a sick line up to boot.

The forward thinking eco-friendly Beach Club, which is located across 200M of white sandy beaches, collaborates with Circoloco for a mega party to coincide with their 20th anniversary. Ibiza heavyweights Seth Troxler, Peggy Gou, Nic Fanciulli, Richy Ahmed, wAFF, Serge Devant, Ibas Ibellini, Lauren Lane & more have all been drafted on board in order to recreate the magic of Monday’s at DC10 on the country’s most powerful Funktion-One sound system.

A region first, a 12 hour showcase of local talent mixed with the industry’s best, set across the Andaman Sea.

Cessle

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WWW.CIRCOLOCOIBIZA.COM

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NEW MUSIC

‘Sunday Morning’ by Matoma ft Josie Dunne displays of messy puddle of emotions. The addictive, yearning vocals draw you in. The killer dance energy of the track pumps you up. I’ve been wrestling with the darkness. The lyrics reflect a disarray of the mind, wanting to feel. I can see the light that's in your eyes.

In the wake of his debut album ‘One In A Million’, in-demand Norwegian pop talent, Matoma drops the official music video starring vocalist Josie Dunne. As a fan favourite from the album, Dunne’s voice possesses a euphoric crossover house energy. Within the video we see Dunne as a frustrated motel cleaner, battling through a tiring job and rude customers, dreaming of running far away to travel the world. An empowering climax, Dunne abandons her job, escaping somewhere far better.

As a highly dynamic producer, DJ and songwriter, Matoma’s collaboration roster has seen him lend his hand to a who’s who of modern pop including One Direction, Coldplay, Jason Derulo, Dua Lipa, Jennifer Lopez, Sean Paul, The Notorious B.I.G. and more. Adding another to the list, he invites New Jerseynative Zookëper, to provide a lively house transformation on the original.

Kicking off 2019, Matoma will embark on his HOLY MOLY! tour, with shows across Europe and North America; playing at venues including Paradiso Amsterdam, Terminal 5 New York and The Warfield San Francisco. Whilst a documentary titled ‘Matoma: One In A Million’ is set to drop in December. www.hakunamatoma.com 24

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‘Only You’ by Oleg Farrier & Michael Grovetsky gives a bright, sunshine burst of warmth. The upbeat dance rhythm gets your body moving whilst the joyful glow of sound choices puts a smile on your face. Feelgood fun!

One of the many stand out progressive cuts taken from our Amsterdam 2018 compilation is this little beauty from Oleg Farrier & Michael Grovetsky. They arrive on InfraProgressive with the sublime 'Only You'. Packing in a lush, warm vibe, uplifting melodies and keeping things fresh, the guys have really come up with a stellar production here. If you need a hit of energy to your set, then look no further as this will certainly cause the desired effect. www.soundcloud.com/olegfarrier

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‘Better Than Today’ by Rhys Lewis has a simplistic structure yet shares raw emotion. The voice is rough at the parts, showing passion and strength to drive him through the tough times. Just hold on when fear shakes you. The soothing piano plays the melody, it is understated, allowing the main focus to shine on the voice. We're gonna find a way.

2018 was certainly a whirlwind year for London-based singer Rhys Lewis.

With his music reaching an ever-growing global fanbase, his music has become known for dissecting his own experiences with an impressive honesty and bravery making it irresistible to listeners worldwide.

His new single ‘Better Than Today’ is a New Year’s resolution of sorts.

Speaking of the new track, Rhys says, “We’ve been living through some pretty turbulent times in recent years. I wrote this song to ease my anxiety about the state of the world and remind myself that, whatever our differences are, whatever we choose to believe in, we all live with the same good intentions common, and we’re all hoping for a better tomorrow.”

This track also marks the start of a new creative chapter for Rhys, having taken on the role of producer for the first time. Working alongside Aidan Glover, who he also co-wrote the song with, the track was recorded straight to tape in their studio in South London.

Originally hailing from Oxford, Rhys is a 27-year-old singer and songwriter who crafts songs with an emotional honesty and vocal maturity that belie his young years.

With seven songs and an EP release to date, Rhys is fast catching the attention of critics and fans internationally. Touring extensively in the past couple of years, including with Freya Ridings, JP Cooper and James TW, he's built up a fan base across Europe that queue overnight to be first in to his electrifying headline shows, selling out shows from London to Amsterdam to Berlin.

He's had heavy support from BBC Introducing, recording two live sessions, performing at a BBC Introducing show in London and most impressively, performing the British Music Embassy stage at SXSW 2018.

‘Better Than Today’ is a sign of exciting things to come for Rhys in 2019.

The track makes a statement, as does he so there should be no holding back for this fast-rising artist. www.rhyslewisofficial.com 26

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‘Cinnamon’s Diary’ by Marco Torrance & Natasha Jaffe is dazzling. The cool and steady beat paves the way for delight. Subtle sunset grooves, which hold a little nostalgia, enter the scene. Smooth and sublime strings capture your heart. The light feeling and charming warmth washes over you.

Marco Torrance and Natasha Jaffe, who gave their debut on Puretrance, deliver a one of a kind track. The way Natasha' s Cello blends in the spheric beats of Marco Torrance is pretty amazing and almost a goosebumps guarantee. As a goodie you will also find in the package a chill version, that focuses on the breakdown as an extended version...enjoy! www.facebook.com/mtorrancepage 28

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The mist clears, I see my path.

You and me.

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‘Introvert’ by Grayson Erhard brings a whirlwind of emotions. The depth of the vocals, passion radiating, really tug at your heart strings. The love. The need to step back and reflect. An equally gripping track accompanies with a fierce guitar-lead melody. The little dips and curves of the dynamic range and various textural elements are modest yet beautiful. Crawling back to piece of mind. Keep me in your heart.

Colorado-based musician Grayson Erhard’s “Introvert” video is a visual romance to the introverts, the lovers of them, and the parts of ourselves that need solace. Like much of the EP, "Introvert" marks a distinct shift toward a full-band, lyrically-focused style and away from Erhard’s previously undressed, stand-alone acoustic sound. "'Introvert' is a reflection of the internal struggles of an introvert, outlining battles with constant bombardment of social situations and wanting to get back to solitude, but ultimately becoming comfortable in one's own skin.

Personally, it’s a musical observation of what I see living with and loving an introvert." Grayson Erhard In it, Erhard has weaved together the percussive style of his early love of Metal and the technically complex percussive guitar style that colored his early career with a more dreamy, indie rock sound. He purposefully plays with and disrupts the common chord progressions of pop music, while complimenting distinct harmonics with EARTHSHIP co-writer Bannigrin’s drum lines. www.graysonerhard.com 30

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‘Push Back’ by Charmes is hot! The striking vocal thrills your senses. The killer beat drops in with the perfect jump-up tempo. The mood darkens in the break section, bringing wicked desires. We’re thrown back to the main tune with lovely little tropical percussion elements.

In Control Recordings is pleased to present ‘Push Back’, from none other than label bossman Charmes. He keeps bringin' that Rollin' bass and this time combined it with positive lyrics & uplifting sophisticated disco vibes!

After his club success with "Clap" which is supported by Tiësto, Martin Garrix, Nicky Romero, James Hype, Chuckie, Chocolate Puma, Mercer and many more, this is another solid release to check out now! www.facebook.com/charmesmusic

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The ‘Physical Addiction EP’ by Insane House ft Romarti holds heavy rumbles of bass with a thick monotonous beat. It creates a dark techno setting which is carried through each track.

The set commences with the murky remix of ‘Arabic’ from Romarti. The next track ’Acid Groove’ plays with a whirlwind of sharp electronic synths. Produced with Romarti, third track ’Elements’ has a fresh and dynamic touch to get the crowd excited. The title track ‘Physical Addiction’ delivers an experimental structure with a hard, intense atmosphere. Final track ‘Paradise’ brings a powerful, spiralling synth and pumping energy.

Insane House gives progressive techno sounds as well as some aggression in this release. He explains that the collaboration with Romarti brings a “radical change” to his music. www.facebook.com/IamInsaneHouse

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Bubbles & bass.

Fight for love.

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‘Get It Right’ by Phebe Edwards ft Mark Asari is divine! Her luscious, smooth waves of vocal sound blossom around your ears. Sugary sweet tones hold a subtle sultry air. The soulful male voice dances alongside hers, beautifully twirling together to create a passionate meld of emotions. Baby, just take my hand. A conversation between lovers. Can I give you my heart?

A test of their love.

Get it Right is the new single from North London soul singer, Phebe Edwards, currently on tour with Years and Years. The single was produced by one of the UK’s most talented producers, Luke ‘G Kid’ Grant, and features ‘The Voice’ star Mark Asari.

“Get It Right takes you back to the 90’s RnB days! We are talking SWV, TLC and Aaliyah days! The song interprets the yearning for trust to be re-established in a relationship. Can we ‘Get it right’ again after being hurt? Can the relationship be restored to what it genuinely was after heartbreak?” Phebe Edwards Phebe Edwards has toured, performed and recorded with some of the industry’s greats including Liam Gallagher, Stormzy, James Brown, Adele, Jessie J, Donna Summer and Rita Ora. Phebe’s debut single Say Suttn charted at #14 in the ITunes RnB chart within hours of its release. Phebe is compared to legends such as Mary J Blige, Fantasia Burrino and Aretha Franklin and her stunning vocals have seen her performing in arenas all over the world supporting global superstars. She is currently touring with Years and Years US, UK and Europe tour.

Get It Right is the follow up single to Space featuring Cameron Bloomfield, released earlier this year. The single was supported by Music Musings and Such, Lock Magazine, The Music Site and many more! The incredible Syleena Johnson featured ‘Space’ on her spotify playlist as one of her ’Chill favs’. Phebe is currently working on her long awaited headline London show, details of which will be released on her website early next year. www.phebeedwards.com 34

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The ‘Abundance EP’ by ORAW is exciting. Hard, driving beats lead the way with big strength and attitude. The dance floor is sure to be jumping. Mesmerising plumes of melodic sounds cut through to bring a sense of wonder.

Transcendence into a higher world.

Greek based producer ORAW brings us his Abundance EP containing 3 outstanding psytrance tracks that are both groovy and original, and define his cutting edge style and production level. In addition to his 2 originals on the release, ORAW teams up with production partner Seegmo with their collaboration track Protectors that rounds out this EP with yet another top quality production. This 3 track EP is not to be missed! www.twitter.com/orawmusic

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‘Illuminator’ by Broning is intense! A cold, hard strength powers through. The pace quickening, the excitement building. The atmospheric shift, a pause for breath, eyes widening. This electrifying synth melody rushes through your veins. The drop brings it altogether and gets you dancing.

Broning returns to the Infrasonic stable on our Serious imprint with his latest tech fuelled single 'Illuminator'.With a raw and edgy vibe, plus that raucous bassline, Broning is the master when it comes to creating truly unique electronic music and 'Illuminator' is no exception. From the simple, but effective melody to the underground throughout this track, there's something for everyone and it'll certainly appeal to the masses. www.facebook.com/broningmusic

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EVENTS FOMO Festival 5 - 13 January Australia Groove Cruise Miami 10 - 14 January Fort Lauderdale, United States Verknipt Rotterdam 11 January Rotterdam, Netherlands Garasnow - Les Angles 11 - 12 January Les Angles, France Unify Gathering 11 - 13 January Victoria, Australia Hard Metal Fest Mangualde 12 January Mangualde, Portugal Solution Germany 12 January Oberhausen, Germany The Sound Of Q-Dance 12 January Shenzhen, China Verknipt 6 Years 12 January Utrecht, Netherlands

Karisruhe, Germany ODESZA 25 January Paris, France Bourask Festival 25 - 26 January Sierre, Switzerland CTM Festival 25 January - 3 February Berlin, Germany Sneeuwbal Winter Festival 26 January Utrecht, Netherlands The Beat Festival 26 January Geneva, Switzerland Snowattack 26 January - 2 February Les Orres, France Rolling Loud Oakland 27 January Oakland, United States Trondheim Calling 31 January - 2 February Trondheim, Norway Inuit Festival 1 - 2 February Marseille, France

WinterWorld 19 January 38

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ASSEMBLY Winter 1 - 3 February Helsinki, Finland Iboga Winter Fest 2 February Madrid, Spain Snowbeat 2 February Wittenburg, Germany Party In The Paddock 7 - 9 February White Hills, Australia WINTERBEATS Festival 8 February Ingolstadt, Germany UnKonscious Festival 8 - 9 February Phuket, Thailand Kolorz Festival Winter 8 - 9 February Carpentras, France Transmission Jakarta 9 February Jakarta, Indonesia On Snow Festival 9 - 16 February Switzerland

FAME Florence 14 - 15 February Florence, Italy

Hidden Festival 22 February - 3 March Australia & New Zealand

5 Senses Thailand Festival 14 - 19 February Koh Phangan, Thailand

Overwinteren Festival 23 February Amsterdam, Netherlands

Mountain Sounds Festival 15 - 16 February Karlong, Australia KABOO Cayman 15 - 16 February Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands Splore Festival 21 - 24 February Auckland, New Zealand In-Door Gijon 22 - 23 February Gijon, Spain Let It Roll Winter 22 - 23 February Prague, Czech Republic

A State Of Trance Festival Utrecht 23 February Utrecht, Netherlands Gazpatxo Rock 23 February Ayora, Spain Roxy Festival 23 February Guadalajara, Mexico Impact Festival 23 February Avignon, France Ultra Australia 24 February Parramatta, Australia

Supa Dupa Fly X Dubai 24 - 28 February Lancaster Roots & Blues Dubai, United Arab Festival Emirates 22 - 24 February Lancaster, United States Noise Pop 25 February MORE Marrakech San Francisco, United 22 - 24 February States Marrakech, Morocco Elevate Festival Waken Winter Nights 27 February - 3 March 22 - 24 February Graz, Austria Wacken, Germany Abroad Fest Barcelona

28 February - 2 March Barcelona, Spain Shapes Festival 28 February - 6 March Leysin, Switzerland Ultra South Africa 1 - 2 March South Africa DLDK: Don’t Let Daddy Know Amsterdam 1 - 2 March Amsterdam, Netherlands Farmer & The Owl Festival 2 March Wollongong, Australia Les Francofolies De La Reunion 8 - 10 March Saint-Pierre, Reunion SXSW: South By Southwest 8 - 17 March Austin, United States A State Of Trance 900 Madrid 9 March Madrid, Spain Days Like This Festival 9 March Camperdown, Australia I Am Hardstyle 9 March Manheim, Germany

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Gasparilla Music Festival 9 - 10 March Florida, United States

16 - 17 March Chambery, France

Avec Le Temps Festival 12 - 17 March Marseille, France

Circus X The Festival 23 March Hook Of Holland, Netherlands

Beat Hotel Marrakech 28 - 31 March Marrakech, Morocco

Les Nuits De La Filature Rampage 16 - 17 March Tomorrowland Winter Lille, France 29 - 30 March 9 - 16 March Antwerp, Belgium Alpe D’Huez, France Worldwide Festival ID_NOLIMITS Leysin Fresh Mountain Festival 18 - 24 March 29 - 30 March 9 - 16 March Estoril, Portugal Leysin, Switzerland Les Orres, France Hibernation Talkfest Circus Paradise Music 29 - 31 March 22 March Festival Pas De La Casa, Andorra Lisbon, Portugal 10 March Queensland, Australia BUKU Music & Art Project Les Nuits De Fourviere 22 - 23 March 12 March New Orleans, United Lyon, March States

SXM Festival 13 - 17 March Saint-Martin, France

Snowboxx 23 - 30 March Avoriaz, France

Garasnow - Luchon Super-Bagneres 15 - 16 March France

Les Paradis Artificiels 23 - 31 March Lille, France

Transmission Australia 16 March Sydney, Australia

Jazz A Megeve 28 - 30 March Megeve, France

Roadhouse Festival 16 March Geiselwind, Germany

Internationale Jazz Woche 26 - 31 March Burghausen, Germany

Pharaonic Festival 40

Stand out from the crowd with Fieldcandy

REFERENCES Bloc Party - Banquet www.youtube.com/watch?v= vdkmhquF60o https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/ silent-alarm/50232347 --www.bloc.party Eli & Fur www.youtube.com/watch?v= SJ4Uk4goizo www.eliandfur.com Weiss - Feel My Needs www.youtube.com/watch? v=8sHwmuQEb3U https://toolroom.lnk.to/WeissNeedsTY --www.weiss-music.com

D-Vox www.facebook.com/dvoxdj www.mixcloud.com/dvoxdj ChillOutDeer - Peaceful | Winter Chill Mix https://www.youtube.com/watch?v= Ai8LtRI_VGA Circoloco In Thailand www.circolocoibiza.com www.residentadvisor.net/ events/1184957 Matoma ft Josie Dunne - Sunday Morning www.youtube.com/watch?v= jpKG9Cu38p8 https://bigbeat.lnk.to/SMSID --www.hakunamatoma.com www.josiedunne.com

Jain - Alright www.youtube.com/watch?v= MARsW26KXQg https://jain.lnk.to/SouldierID --www.jain-music.com

Oleg Farrier & Michael Grovetsky - Only You www.youtube.com/watch?v= QVHLvm1VIDM https://infraprogressive.choons.at/ onlyyou --www.soundcloud.com/olegfarrier

Melanie Ribbe – Get It Right https://www.youtube.com/watch?v= XH90D9WZjoU https://moonharbour.lnk.to/MHD049 --www.melanieribbe.com

Rhys Lewis - Better Than Today www.youtube.com/watch?v= sbWkv0KNA1E https://lnk.to/BTTRLID --www.rhyslewisofficial.com

Jacky – Another Place (Huxley remix) www.jacky-music.co.uk

Marco Torrance & Natasha Jaffe Cinnamon’s Diary www.youtube.com/watch?v=NctrYp1V5A www.beatport.com/release/cinnamonsdiary/2426175 --www.facebook.com/mtorrancepage www.natashajaffe.com

Darius Syrossian - Dance Of The Shaman www.beatport.com/release/dance-ofthe-shaman/2451812 https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=0Gb11Gvr6HU --www.facebook.com/darius.syrossian

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Halogenix - Don’t You Know www.youtube.com/watch? v=9svDvyNVEXE www.criticalmusic.com/releases/vexdont-you-know --www.facebook.com/halogenix Whitewildbear - Come Back www.youtube.com/watch?v= k52xRpPgAc0 https://whitewildbear.bandcamp.com/ track/come-back --www.soundcloud.com/whitewildbear Grayson Erhard - Introvert www.youtube.com/watch? v=50rvAQBUU1c https://graysonerhard.com/listen/?t= earthship --www.graysonerhard.com

www.shockone.com.au Phebe Edwards ft Mark Asari - Get It Right www.youtube.com/watch? v=2PvVSCxMVvs http://smarturl.it/GetItRightPhebeMark --www.phebeedwards.com www.twitter.com/MarkAsari ORAW - Abundance EP www.youtube.com/watch?v= yLaqSmAnGuM https://perfecto.choons.at/abundance --www.twitter.com/orawmusic Broning - Illuminator www.soundcloud.com/infrasonicrec/ broning-illuminator www.beatport.com/release/ illuminator/2465829 --www.facebook.com/broningmusic

Charmes - Push Back www.facebook.com/charmesmusic Insane House ft Romarti - Physical Addiction EP www.youtube.com/watch?v= kJDbzli08NE http://smarturl.it/AWJR157 --www.facebook.com/IamInsaneHouse Tuff Culture - Elements Part 2 www.youtube.com/watch? v=2_WiB0LQqts www.beatport.com/release/elementspart-2/2467079 --www.facebook.com/TuffCulture ShockOne ft Cecil - Underloved www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajLjIHIwPTo https://wma.lnk.to/ShockOneUnderloved --42

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REWIND 2 0 1 8

Walshy Fire

kind of music before and now, through Major Laser, are able to research who Celia Cruz or Peter Tosh 1st December 2017 saw is. There’s a lot more work to do for international artist Walshy Fire take sure. I’ll be doing this for the rest of to the stage in Grand Baie, Mauritius. my life.”

We were proud to sponsor the event which was hosted by Urban Pulse.

When speaking of the crowd’s Summer represented Audiation for expectations, Walshy Fire explained this event... that all he hoped for is that “everybody comes with an open mind Walshy Fire was a joy to welcome to and an open heart to receive a good the island with his humble persona. positive message and a great He was not only interested in the gig, atmosphere with a lot of fun.” but also of the history and origins of Mauritius. When speaking of the On the night of the event, he lit up island, he felt it was reminiscent of the stage from within. Full of energy, his home country of Jamaica, “there it was not a feeling that he was simply is this pride of everybody mixed putting on a show, he really enjoyed together and creating their own himself and imparted that good culture. That sense of fighting feeling to the audience. through colonialism and creating something unique and exciting.”

Whilst on the island, Walshy Fire was also introduced to Kaya - Seggae Man, It is to be appreciated that when which he loved. “I put out a lot of Walshy Fire speaks of music or his dancehall and reggae music right vision of the world, he relates to his now. I started on something called Jamaican roots. His heart is still there ReggaeVival, I’m going to really start wherever he is, keeping the people pushing reggae music through that and the love of Jamaica with him. label, that’s why I would love to meet Seggae artists. Listening to that beat In regards to this, he also explains the - it totally translates to my side of the following, “I represent the region of world.” the Caribbean. That includes Zouk, Soca, Kompa, Salsa, Bachata, www.walshyfire.com Merengue, Reggae, Dancehall - so it encompasses all. Do I feel like I’ve accomplished that? No. I feel like this is going to be a lifelong mission and I’m thankful for the little accomplishments, I have gotten people who have never heard this 44

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Playing The World Around Me After discovering the creative genius JJ Riordan with you his version of ‘Cola’ using Coca Cola bottles, we’re delighted to present an insight into his mind in which the whole world is his soundboard. Where we see everyday objects, he sees music waiting to be played.

The latest creation utilises his new flat by mixing together the percussive wall, the melodic cooking pots, the synth microwave and more making up your next house banger! It’s really fun and you watch with amazement, trying to see all the little sounds and which items they pair up with. Fantastic.

JJ Riordan takes us behind the scenes, revealing the process of turning the ordinary into something tuneful...

Hello! My name is JJ Riordan and I compose music using everyday items! I was in the middle of my Masters Degree, in University College Cork, when I began composing with the world around me and since then, I have become increasingly invested in how I, or anyone for that matter, can utilise the everyday locations, rooms and/or items around us to create musical compositions. I have used a number of these media to create music: from Coca-Cola cans and bottles, buildings in Cork, my bathroom, a car etc. and it has been an incredibly fun challenge as I rarely anticipate what the end product will sound like!

Collecting sound samples is the first thing that I have to do when it comes to 46

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composing with my location, item, room etc., and to collect these sounds, I use a handheld microphone system, called the Zoom H5, with various interchangeable microphone “capsules”. When I collect samples, I use a shotgun capsule, as it is an incredibly directional pick-up pattern that picks up little-to-no background sound – offering me a very “raw”, or clean sound, which is preferable, as it’s far easier to work with these clips in the processing steps of this composition.

Once I have collected as many samples as I can, I take the recordings to my computer, where I work with them in my DAW of choice - Logic Pro X. In Logic, I can listen back to my various recorded sample clips and extract the sounds that, I believe, have potential as musical “building blocks”.

Once I have chosen a tempo and I’ve decided on a certain “feel”, I tend to start by building up the percussive components of my track using Logic’s musical grid interface – using clips and samples that, in my ears, resemble drums of varying timbres, from kick drums to snares, hats etc.

When it comes to melodic components, I try to find samples with an intrinsic note, or sonic frequency – and I isolate that frequency using EQ. Once this step is complete, I can drop my “cleaned up” sample into Logic’s stock sampling plug in – the EXS-24, and use this plug-in to “play” my sample in a multitude of notes, and sequences. However, this process is absolutely achievable in every DAW – including Ableton Live, Reason, Fruity Loops etc.

As soon as one understands the sampling and trimming, necessary to compose with these everyday sounds, the world opens up to be one massive (potential) soundboard, waiting to be played by a creative mind.

Sound is - at the end of the day, vibration - and when we realize that everything vibrates or at least has the potential to be vibrated, they have the potential to be sounded and utilised in a musical manner – it just takes creative thinking!

From the streets that we walk everyday, to the rooms we wake up in and the everyday bits and pieces that are often overlooked in our day-to-day proceedings, the potential for musical composition in every little thing makes for an incredibly exciting and musically compelling world. www.youtube.com/c/JJRiordanMusic

www.instagram.com/jjriordan

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It is really something special when you get to witness and support an artist’s growth right from the beginning, and Leanne Louise has blossomed continuously over the past years. She always works hard and has fun with her passion. We to chat with Leanne Louise about her single ‘My Goodbye’.

My Inspiration…

As a singer/songwriter I base a lot, if not the majority, of my songs around situations in life that I go through / the feelings I feel and this particular song came about very organically. I’d reached a turning point in my life and mindset after having my heartbroken, I found it really hard to write about the heartbreak so I teamed up with a good friend of mine and producer Sovereign.

He sent me over an instrumental and instantly the lyrics and melody line just flowed out of me. I wanted to write a song that would empower people, not just provoke the negative feelings of a break up but the great ones you feel at that turning point when you’re ready to bounce back and achieve everything you’re made for achieving. Within a week of me writing the song, we were in his studio laying down the vocals.

‘My Goodbye’, produced by Sovereign, 48

is a fantastic fresh little number. The snappy and assertive side of Leanne Louise’s voice is paired with a nifty UK Garage beat. There is a beautiful surprise of the sublime long vocal notes and a little twist of dark bass to create a great contrast.

My Career…

Right now I’m so happy with how things are turning out because it’s been a good few years since I released anything officially (my last official release was ‘Mr Magician’), but I’ve been experimenting a lot with different sounds and visions for the past 2 years and I have a confident vision of the sort of record I want to create. So, I’m very happy with what I’m working on but always moving forward and keeping an open mind to new opportunities.

My Goodbye…

It’s always a little bit nerve-wracking when you haven’t released anything for a while but everyone has shown me so much support. THANK YOU. __________________________________

www.facebook.com/ leannelouisemusic www.leannelouisemusic.com

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LAKESHAKE It’s that time of the year again! The weather is warm, the sun is out, and country music is back in style again. I’m one of those people who only listens to country in the summertime because it is all about sunshine, beer and backyard parties, so why listen to that any other season?

Irrelevant.

I was lucky enough to attend Chicago’s Windy City Lake Shake at the Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island (right next to Adler Planetarium and Shedd Aquarium), so here are my takeaways from the festival!

The festival started on Friday, but it was raining so I skipped that day.

Sorry Blake Shelton.

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SATURDAY’S HIGHLIGHTS Jackie Lee covers First artist we saw was Jackie Lee, who I totally thought was a girl going into the festival. The lineup was mostly male, so I was excited to see a girl on stage. However, I was pleasantly surprised because he is the definition of an up and coming artist. He captured the entire audience who were just arriving, and his voice was like butter. Great start to the show. He also had great covers that got the crowd going, but I can’t remember what they were! So, Jackie Lee, if you’re reading this, you have great songs and covers!

Fun fact: He has beaten cancer twice!

Lanco’s guitarist Lanco is a band that seems like a household name now. If you don’t know them, you have heard “Greatest Love Story.” The funny thing about this band is all the band members looked like they were all friends on a baseball team growing up, but their guitarist (Eric Steedly) just stood out.

How do I explain this… well he was HOT. Long hair, tank top with muscles, so many guitar solos. Everyone around me kept talking about him, probably because he didn’t fit in with the band members at all based on looks, but he was entertaining to watch!

Billy: sweaty I don’t remember how sweaty Billy Currington was, but he must’ve been drenched if I made a note about it. He was fun!

Dierks: homeless No shade to him at all, but he looked homeless! My cousin and I were talking about him, if we saw him outside of the concert, we would have no idea he is a country superstar. He had a long raggedy beard, but somehow it worked for him.

As we were leaving his set, Navy Pier had a firework show, so it was perfect.

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SUNDAY’S HIGHLIGHTS Girls night out / Russell Dickerson - Pop He was pouring beer down his band’s throats, most likely getting drunk on stage. You can just tell by his stage presence that he loves his life right now. The one thing that surprised me is he had a pop song called MGNO (My Girl’s Night Out). Everyone in the audience was jumping and dancing to it, but it really was unexpected, since this is his debut album and touring, so it seems surprising to release a pop song as well.

We did more walking around the festival today so stopped by a Barefoot tent to sample the new wine in cans, which were good! I was drinking the Red Sangria one the whole time. My friends and I did the photo booth with real guitars and costumes. Fun time! Lots of the booths were barbeque food, clothes, games, and a swing ride.

Chris Lane has a song on the radio called “Take Back Home Girl,” but I didn’t know much about him going into the festival. What a performer, captured the hearts of every girl in there! He’s about 5’6”, but he was cute and sweet to the girls around the stage, bringing one girl up to sing “All About You.” I can’t wait for him to come back to Chicago because I am going!

Cole Swindell has a lot of country hits too, so it was cool seeing him.

I was with my co-workers at this point as well, so it was fun dancing with them. Not much stood out, but he was a good performer.

The one act everyone was looking forward to was Florida Georgia Line. Lots of fire, lots of energy, two friends that really made it in country music. People around me kept yelling for their song “Dirt,” so when they played it people went crazy.

I think that’s enough country for all of you readers. Hope I filled you in on the best songs for the summer of country music.

Thanks for another great year LakeShake!!!

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Sarah's Thoughts

Inner translation Body and soul want to connect Deeper vibration I don't want to neglect My own self I might forget The best version of me ahead Looming temptation Easy routes and white lies No deviation The old belief dies Elevate my soul Let go and no control Lead me to salvation Being aligned to my soul path Resilient; I am holding on Not looking at the aftermath My heart taking a new step My soul taking a further step

Stv

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Nev G

saw a band at a function, I used to ask them if I could sing and they'd let me!

Full of enthusiasm and positive energy, Nev G enjoys sharing her creativity with the world. The female DJ holds a huge passion for oldschool music ranging from various genres including RnB, Hip Hop, Jungle, Soul and Dance. She also puts other interests into focus alongside this, for example her special shows contain horoscope themes in which the artists featured are chosen to correlate with the current month in the astrological signs - the early June show featured Gemini artists. Nev G shares her story with us,,, Tell us a little about yourself.

I guess it started as soon as I had access to a tape recorder. As an only child in the early 80's - when I was about 6, I was a bit obsessed with recording my voice and playing it back. I still have those tapes believe it or not! I also used to record Soul music off the radio at the age of 6 and 7 too. By the time I was 12, I was very into Pirate Radio stations; unfortunately this was in 1988, so the Acid House era had kicked in and I was too young to go out and rave! So I'd spend a lot of time in my bedroom listening to stations like WNK, Lazer, LWR, Kiss, Fantasy and Dance, familiarising myself with the music. By the time I was 13, I was down the record shop every Saturday, spending all my pocket money on vinyl. I also grew up singing in front of large crowds, so I didn't have stage fright or anything like that. Any time I 54

While I was at Barnet College (1992-1994) I heard Jungle Music on someone’s walkman and was instantly converted. I was a self-renowned Junglette and adored the Junglistic way of life from that time onwards; the raves, the production on some of the tracks, the chemistry between the MC's and DJ's on stage. The ability to hear my name being shouted on London's Number One radio station at the time - Kool FM. It was a magical time. Music had changed from the 1988 Acid House and Hardcore eras and Junglism was an entirely new and fantastic movement that I still follow and rave to - to this day!

Then after I left Barnet College in 1994, I was studying Performing Arts again at uni when I had a penny drop moment; why am I pretending to be someone else on stage (as an actress) when I have this big personality and a serious eclectic love and collection of music? I should be in radio! So I left uni in 1997 and sought out a job in Hospital Radio just for the experience. Within a few months I landed myself my first radio show on London Turkish Radio, Tuesday nights 10pm - 12am called Nev G's Niteride playing R&B, D&B and HipHop. I stayed there for 9 years before moving on to Xtreme FM and then on to Deja Vu FM - where I have been doing Nev G's Nostalship for 6 years now, every Sunday between 6 8pm. It has given me a

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brilliant opportunity to interview some great artists and be as creative as I want, incorporating themes to most of my shows.

I do love presenting my own show on radio, but there's something quite priceless about playing to a dance floor as well; the reactions are instant.

Oh gosh - that's a big question - there are sooooo many! I always say that 1994 is my favourite year for R&B and Jungle but I am going to go with all the R&B artists from 1992 onwards because that was such a memorable era and one from which New Jack Swing was still about too. These old skool artists would include Jodeci, Aaliyah, Mary J Blige, Mariah (my number one of all time), Guy, Boyz II Men, SWV etc!

Your Nostalship shows take us through old school music together with astrology episodes… Can you tell us a little about this?

In addition to this, I also love PROPER OLD SKOOL artists like Frank Sinatra, I am very intuitive about people’s Nat King Cole and Dean Martin. They energies but I don't tell everyone or bring out the old soul in me and I just put this fact out there on social media. adore jazz music. I DO have a major My spirituality is a very personal thing soft spot for Old Skool Reggae too - so for me. Along with a lot of other stuff, you see, I am very eclectic which I pride I hold it close to my heart, my feelings myself on. I have done this feature on intensify more that way and my my show which started with Nev G's intuitive side is quite private for me. 100% 1988 Nostalship and I did every year in-between through to 2006. It I have been in to astrology since I was took me nearly a year to do. I enjoyed a teenager; it's not about your daily it so much that when I got to the end, horoscope in the paper that you need I did it all over again! My most to go by, more the adjectives of enjoyable ones were 1989, 1994, characters described in astrology that 1995, 1996 and 2001. is a really good guide to get an idea of _________________________________ what people’s characters are like. I have always enjoyed combining my www.instagram.com/nevgdejavu two passions together, so every month I do a read up during my show on the particular sign that we're currently in.

When I have a guest in the studio, I read directly to my guest on air. I can happily say that the high majority of the time I have been congratulated on my accuracy.

Favourite old school artists?

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What happens if your hard drive fails, CDs are scratched, tapes askew or vinyls melted?

What if the world gets chaotic, fi r e s a b l a z e a n d y o u r p r e c i o u s music collection reduced to scattered embers? What if there was a real way to preserve it? A life form that could endure any disasters. ‘The Preserving Machine’ by Philip K. Dick is an intriguing short story of one idealistic’s attempt to prolong the life of music, giving it life. By turning a sheet of music into a living animal, the theory is that they w o u l d w i t h s t a n d a n y d i ffi c u l t i e s and be able to retain the music inside of them to be converted back when desired. But life is not to be toyed with, as he soon fi n d s o u t . T h e c r e a t u r e s t a k e o n t h e d i ff e r e n t s t y l e s o f m u s i c through their characteristics and, eventually, they begin to adapt to the outside world.

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Dihaj The musical group from Azerbaijan are mesmerising with their artistic nature.

Their music ranges across incredibly deep and moving pieces, bright and quirky moments, mellow and contemporary songs and more.

Their single ‘We Shall See Them Sometimes’ featuring Uran is a special release to support those with mental health issues, it comes together with the following statement: A society’s mental state is determined by its attitude to people with mental health problems. The story follows a young boy who has had to battle mental problems for the most part of his life, but he is pushing through and following his dreams. The tones encompass the good and bad times very well together with the heartfelt video, the contrast with the tough rap vocal against the soft chorus further pulls at your emotions.

school where at the very beginning I launched a folk/jazz ensemble called “Bary Bakh”. The time passed and I went through lots of transformations. I graduated from Baku Music Academy as a choir conductor, then from the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance in London, was developing my love for jazz music singing at Baku Jazz Center etc. In 2014 I finally understood that I am ready to make my own band and brand. So now Dihaj is existing.

Who are Dihaj?

Dihaj is the name of project lead by me.

We are three of us. Ali on drums and fx, Anar on guitar and synth and me on vocals, keys and controllers. When we met we all were playing in different bakuish bands. The time came, we got a friendship and the same and familiar “mood” in creation of music. We started and there are no plans to stop. We describe our trio as a triangle where all the corners are equal. We found soulmates in each other so working together is pretty much easy. This is how it should be. So our unique sound is the conclusion of our hearts, souls and of course brains.

Dihaj proudly represented their country in Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with the powerful ‘Skeletons’ and their debut album ‘The End Of Sunsrise’ was also release later in the year. We had the pleasure of speaking You represented Azerbaijan at with the group’s singer Diana.

Eurovision Song Contest 2017, can you tell us about the experience?

Diana, tell us a little about yourself and how you started in music.

For me Eurovision was a side but very serious project. Besides an honor, it was I was born in a family where everyone a huge responsibility. Eurovision itself loves music with all their hearts. So at is a school of stage performance, artistic the age of 3 when I was singing, my dad behavior and stabilizing of vocals. So it recognized a song “You’re simply the was a priceless experience which I am best” by Tina Turner. So it was obvious not regretting at all. that my parents brought mw to music 58

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I am not a professional speaker but most of the times my message is “Look around, all these beautiful technological things were done by a human. Continue to build up a clear and clever future rather than destroying each other. Speak for yourself and live YOUR OWN life”.

The country is well-known for unique talent, can you tell us a little about the What does music mean to you? creative industry there?

If I say that I love music with all my heart We celebrate 100 years of democracy I say nothing. As I think music is the most in Azerbaijan this year. But at the same truthful manifestations among arts. It time it’s only 27 years as we are out of gives you space to create and share your pressure of USSR. So we are a pretty mood journey in real time with audience young country in independency. That right here right now. Each time you listen means that we are developing in all the to your favorite tune, you live through fields with a very fast speed. Now I can atmosphere and moods of the author’s say that we have a little but strong idea. And it happens every time. Isn’t it artistic community which reprints arts beautiful? of Azerbaijan abroad and, at the same __________________________________ time, tries to shake post Soviet Union society plus showing them alternative www.facebook.com/dihajmusic ways of thinking/living/listening. For www.dihaj.com example, I am part of an entertainingly educational community called “VarYox”. We have a web site where we share local subcultural life side by side with a worldwide artistic life. We do speak about art performances, musicians, share information about historic figures in an “easy going” attractive way, we do concerts, events, exhibitions etc. I am proud of being Azeri as I live in a unique place, which is situated really in a very splice of cultures, religions and world outlooks.

Here you can build up and present whatever interesting things you want.

The main key is to work hard.

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Photography by Sitara Ibrahimova

On having a trip to Baku, Azerbaijan, there is a high chance to be amazed by its very hospitable people, who honour traditions very much, and are openminded to all new and modern. Baku is like an old vinyl being remixed nowadays, sewing different cultures together. This is the place for Formula 1 Grand Prix, Eurovision Song Contest, mainstream pop, rock, jazz artists and many more.

The sound of Azerbaijani identity

Music in Baku is one of their main values. You may notice the very first banknote is dedicated to musical instruments. The unique carpet museum has many carpets in collection, one of which respects famous outstanding Azerbaijan composer, professor and academician Uzeyir Hajibeyov. You may experience that the traditional sound is an essential part of the most famous museums in Baku, presenting its importance and variety.

Music forms cultural richness of various peoples and nationalities, as well as the world as a whole. Nice examples of Azerbaijani national music legacy rising on the foundation of their cultural heritage with centuries. It is worthy to mention that a performance of ‘tar’, an ancient stringed music instrument, has been entered by UNESCO on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Azerbaijan’s rich music art has developed over centuries.

Mary & Tamara

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The Dirty Outlaws

get one up on each other. You can always feel the love when we get together in the studio. It’s a family Three cheeky chaps in music, The affair Dirty Outlaws have a really cool eclectic taste in music from garage, Love Sick London - what’s it all about? bass, indie, pop and more. Their fresh and somewhat eccentric attitude also Love Sick London is a lifestyle & extends into the new Love Sick clothing brand that was created off the London clothing line which has a back of the dirty outlaws vibe. London distinctive urban style. We got to chat living. Tattoos & out out culture. to the guys about their work.,, What influences the Love Sick London Who are The Dirty Outlaws and how style & designs? did you all come together?

A lot of things influence the style & The Dirty outlaws are 3 best mates: DJ design. Defo a big part of it was inspiration. Mc Mista Mee & Mc Logo. growing up in the 90’s. Iceberg / We met through a love of Garage music Moschino and the whole 90’s club & going out clubbing in the 90’s. scene.

Your music tastes are very varied Anything else you’d like to say? from bright pop to dark bass… how do you guys come up with new ideas and We just wanna say thank you to can we expect to hear any new tracks everyone that’s tuned in to our shows from you soon? over the last 20 years & taken time out to listen to our music. We’ve got Yeah our tastes in music range from nothing but love for you guys. Thanks! punk to classical. Pop to Dubstep. We _________________________________ tend to just get in the studio have a few beers. Laugh & bounce ideas off www.facebook.com/ each other till something sticks. We’re thedirtyoutlaws in the studio now making fresh music for release this year. So, watch this www.lovesicklondon.co.uk space.

You all look like you’re always having fun doing shows and projects, what is the vibe like together in the studio?

Yeah it’s always a laugh when we get together. We’re like 3 brothers.

Always taking the mickey or trying to 62

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My Crazy Summer The last weeks of the summer were quite hectic for me, 10 flights in less than 2 weeks, from north to south, from east to west.

NORWAY 29 August: My flights to the most northern part of Norway, Kirkenes‌ I have been asked to play at the club night for Grenselos Festivalen, the biggest festival of the north of Norway. It takes a full day to get all the away up north from Amsterdam to Oslo, from Oslo to Kirkenes, with a 5 hour stopover in Oslo. I always love to go for a walk there and check out the town and nature. Weird detail, at the end of my set, from 23:00 to 02:00 I step outside and it's still light. I play here at least twice a year and they always take great care of me. Amazing food, champagne and a weekend full of fun and crazy Norwegians! I flew back on Sunday.

3 - 5 September: I am home to work on new music and do the stuff I need to do at home.

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CYPRUS 6 September: It's time to fly again. This time I play in Kyrenia in the northern (Turkish) part of Cyprus. This is a big gig, in the famous Cage club, voted as the best club of Turkey and North Cyprus. I am headliner on the Friday and it's always very exciting to play here. Normally I stay at the hotel that belongs to the club, but this time I stayed at my friend's place. He has a great house with pool, BBQ and a Playstation. I arrive on Thursday night and I kicked his ass with FIFA a few times.

7 September: During the day we spent most of the time in and around the pool with a few more friends and a few cold beers. Around 22:00 we hook up with the managers for a really nice dinner with way too much food. My set starts at 01:30 till 03:00 and it was amazing! The famous AKON came over to check out my set as well.

8 September: More good food, more FIFA, more cold beers and more pool time.

9 September: In the morning I fly back home, with a short stopover in Athens. Another weekend full of great memories.

10 September: I can rest and prepare for the next trip: Ibiza!

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IBIZA 11 September: Another flight! This time Ibiza. I've got the good news that my friend will join me on this trip. We booked an extra day and a car, so we could enjoy some of the island as well. After a very turbulent flight we arrive at Ibiza around 13:00, time to pick up the car and check in at the hotel. We have the rest of the day to chill and we do some great sightseeing like Cafe del Mar sunset, Mambo and some nice beaches. My set starts at midnight at the legendary Es Paradis, I played some of my new tracks and it all went well. The next day we had a full day of free time and we spent most of it on a few beaches. At night we had VIP tickets for Armin in HĂŻ, so we went to see the show. Great thing he played my new track during his set.

I am looking forward to next summer already!

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aDaniel Wanrooy

Every song ends, is that any reason not to enjoy the music?

- Jessie

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Awakening hearts along her journey, Sharm Pillay imparts good energy through the 5 dimensions of Techno. Originally from South Africa, she now resides in Australia and spends her time uniting people through the power of music as well as expressing her soul through this medium. Sharm Pillay shares her journey with us…

The Awakening Raised in a musically motivated family, music has been a constant throughout my life. Both my parents and fraternal grandfather were actively engaged in the music world. My grandad was South Africa’s first Hindu Drum (Thabala) Gold Medalist (1927). Filthy, sexy basslines run deep in my blood.

It was April 2014 when I unwittingly activated my DJ journey. The short story is that a random thought led to an idea which led to exciting actions, and here I am four years later. It’s been a journey of note. I intuitively followed the stirrings of my heart, taking heed to that persistent, enthusiastic feeling when I tuned into music. Prior to this I’d experienced nothing like it. When I doubted myself, the confirmation that I was on the right path came from friends, followers and strangers who supported my journey.

Passionate about music, I’ve experienced many genres during the course of my life that set the tone for a keen musical ear: House, RnB, Rock, Soul, Jazz, HipHop, Reggae, Blues leading to Techno. My enthusiasm for DJ'ing has everything to do with “Music that gets me soul dancing”. Though, Techno is my first true love.

Favourite motto is “To thine own self be true”.

My DJ journey in essence? It’s been a Spiritual Awakening kinda experience.

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The Frequencies Of Techno If you listen to Techno with your heart you will hear whispers of the Universe vibrating within your being.

It’s no secret that music is an ageless and timeless vibration. These are my views. Use it or lose it. Music is the melody, the timing, the pulse of my soul.

Music is a Universal Language, Love the Universal Healer and Light the Universe itself in action. Drop Techno in the mix and you've a magical formula that would have Nikola Tesla wishing he's attending a Techno throw down.

Techno is a whole different animal. Techno is a game changer.

Its vibration, frequency, energy (Spirit) seeps through the cracks of our DNA. It touches us in places we never knew existed or may have forgotten. It breaks open hearts, stretches minds and exposes us to our soul. Techno is a healing frequency channeled straight from Spirit. It's a Spiritual thing, the 5D kind. You can't touch it.

First you sense it. Then you feel it. It’s an intUItion thing… it exists within U & I.

To aspiring artists: never give up on your dream! Never. Tend to your soul’s voice and awaken to your heart’s passion.

The planet is undergoing a huge shift and it’s a beautiful time to balance our masculine and feminine divine energies within.

This is my truth... I own it.

This is my journey... I’m so walking it. ______________________________________________________________________

www.sharmpillay.com

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Music helps me... I have been fascinated with Music for as long as I can remember, my mother told me stories of how she used to unplug the stereo to stop me from playing records in the middle of the night when I was 2 years old, only for me to plug it back in and carry on, waking up neighbours and leaving her to explain to them that the toddler was the one to blame, I was clearly hooked.

Music for me is so many things, as a whole it's unlike anything else I know, it sets moods, explains and portrays emotions, helps expression, unites people.

Sometimes I use music as a form of therapy to reflect on and deal with emotions, find a sequence of chords that fits my mood and play for as long as I need to feel resolve, I suppose something about the notes singing my own feelings back to me creates a feeling of understanding.

Music helps me focus on work, I find that listening to instrumental music, especially from something with warm memories, like an old computer game that I played as a kid, is not only relaxing, but also somewhat engaging and motivating.

Music helps me out of bad spells of anxiety, since late 2016 I have suffered with both anxiety and panic attacks, which can descend my normally clear thinking mind into a struggle for control and worst case leave me wondering if I will see another day, there have been many times where listening to music has diverted my attention and brought me back to normality.

Just last night my wife and I were at Bluedot festival in Manchester to see The Chemical Brothers headline, of course they were absolutely amazing as always, after a fair amount of beer and cider (which surely played a role in this) we were jumping up and down in arms with total strangers, everyone smiling, letting the euphoria take over and screaming our enjoyment at each other as if we were all best mates, I don't even know their names, how many times have I been in the same situation with Music? How many times have I been in the same situation with anything else?

Is there any art form more exciting? More able to elicit emotion? More helpful? More universal? Not for me there isnt, what a gift it is.

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Eskuche

have begun a lot more on solo projects as ‘Eskuche’. Where in the world are you now & what’s been Audiation magazine has always been going on since we last spoke? about keeping our ears to the ground, looking at break-through acts and In the last 3 years things changed trying to have our noses poking completely for me, in a good way. I’ve around in the right places sniffing out done some amazing solo releases on what’s hot and fresh on the labels like Repopulate Mars, Elrow, underground scene. It was 3 years Mr. Nice guy, Deeperfect and many ago when we had our attention drawn more. Also I played some cool gigs to a New York based duo by the name with Elrow, toured South America and of Eskuche & Nu Sky. This was around Russia playing Schimasnki, Output the time when the boys had begun and spending now my 2nd season in to make that step up from local circuit Ibiza as an Ibiza talents resident.

DJs to recognized DJ/Producers Seeing some of the biggest DJs across the world. As a duo they racked supporting my music really inspired up releases on acclaimed labels such me for more. I’ve some big stuff as Material, Viva LTD, Lost Records & coming soon.

Hot Creations, just to name a few, and it was their distinctive drum-based You’ve spoken in the past about your groovey dancefloor sound that memories of Ibiza, and about how began to build them well deserved magical and inspirational the island recognition. The past couple of years is. Ibiza is constantly changing and have no doubt been a journey for the growing but last year you spent the guys, with both guys taking time to season living on the island through work on new solo projects, notably the summer, how did you find it and Eskuche delivering a number of was the magic still there for you? releases on respected labels such as Elrow, Jesse Perez’s imprint Mr Nice I think Ibiza is all about balance, you Guy, Repopulate Mars and a big new need to take time off sometimes from EP due for release on Hot Creations the parties and just enjoy life on this this October. We manage to catch up magical island. Drive in to some with Eskuche ahead of his upcoming hidden beaches, eat in nice and not gig in his home town of New York City so popular places, go for a walk and for Jamie Jones’ Paradise. just enjoy simple things.

Easy bro, how’s tricks, all good no Any memorable moments that left doubt? It’s been about 3 years since you fully motivated to get straight the last time you spoke to Audiation in the studio or inspired the way Magazine and since then you’ve been racking up the air miles and 72

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"I think Ibiza is all about balance, you n e e d t o t a k e t i m e o ff s o m e t i m e s f r o m the parties and just enjoy life on this magical island."

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you play music that you wish to share with our readers?

business. Its been really amazing to see how this track was picked up so quickly by big artists like Jamie Jones, Darius Syrossian, Leon, Detlef, Latmun and lots of people have been asking me about this tune. I’m really happy to release it with Hot Creations as an EP along with my track “Pleasure Beat”. October will be massive.

I always try to start something after I come home from the party, I try to capture some inspiration from a night. At least an idea, then next day I like to work on it properly. I’ve discovered that its then, after I’ve woken up, that I feel at my most productive.

When it comes to producing tracks do you have to get yourself in a Your favourite party on the island? certain mind set? What’s the process for you?

Of course it is Paradise. I’ve been going there almost every week and As I mentioned above I like to capture the vibe is always incredible. I really some ideas after parties. Sometimes like the new place in Playa Den Bossa inspiration comes in different forms, “El Patio”, I played there for Ibiza groove on mind or a bassline you Talents and it was great. Originally it remember or some nice vocals you started as an after party for Music On really wanna use. But also I think its on Saturdays. Also the Elrow parties all about discipline as well, you just are super dope, especially the one in need to sit down and get sh*t done.

Ushuaia which was off the hook. ________________________________ Great show. I’ve also been digging day parties like Rumors at Destino www.facebook.com/eskuchemusic and Blue Marlin. www.soundcloud.com/ eskuchemusic What was the idea behind the ‘Activator’ EP on Hot Creations?

I started this track right after Paradise closing last year. The idea was to make something underground with a DC10 terrace vibe. I’d finished it before the Music On closing party and my friend Leon was the first who played it there on the terrace. This was special for me, to see it played a few hours after I finished it. I knew after that this track will do the 74

Cessle

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Ashna

Nick Sarpa Music is an ageless and timeless vibration where all is one. Present, past or transcending our 3rd dimension, music is a world language, love the universal healer and light the universe itself in action.

In enters passion filled with creativity.

Drop music in the mix and you could quite possibly have a purpose to raise vibrations. Given our fast-evolving world and revolutionary rise of consciousness, special souls around the world are awakening to their truth.

Some are doing it with their educated skills, some with learned talent and others still with inherent ancient gifts.

What’s important is that they are following their hearts.

a DJ can do to a track, to manipulate and blend it with another to create a form of art. I wanted to be that person.

What do you most love playing?

Currently I’m journeying through Tech House & Techno as I’ve new found love for it and want to continue to focus and grow in these two genres. However, if I ever get the chance to go back to my roots and play occasionally with the unique sound of HI NRG, Hard House and Classic Trance, then this is where all the fun is.

Who’s your muse in the music world?

Growing up with music, I encountered several idols as my love of music evolved, starting with Paul Van Dyk & Tiesto in their classic days from 1998 2004. But now I get majority of my Nick Sarpa from Sydney, is a promising, inspiration from the one and only king, authentic and passionate emerging DJ Carl Cox! with heart. He took time out to let us into his journey of truth. Here’s what How would you describe the dance he has to share with the world... scene in Sydney?

How did it all start for you?

The dance scene in Sydney is still continuing to grow after there was a setback with laws. This caused a lot of venues to close. However, due to the growing popularity of Tech House & Techno, parties are still going very strong, attracting large crowds, which gives hope for the Sydney scene to turn around dramatically.

My love for music started as a child around the age of 5, watching and listening to the weekly Video Hit Charts.

Over the years it continued to grow, opening my eyes to different genres. It wasn’t until I was 14, that I was introduced to Classic Trance & Hi NRG which drew me into the idea of electronic music, where my passion for What single night out has been the most music really kicked off. The idea of memorable for you? being a DJ grabbed me when I went to my first nightclub in Sydney, being DCM, As a DJ, my most memorable night to which allowed me to hear and see what 76

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date is the Halloween party I hosted in Sydney. The vibe inside the place was screaming as the venue was almost at full capacity. What made this even more special was the crowd being in the Halloween spirit, coming dressed for the occasion. My recent visit to the magical island of Ibiza has to be my highlight. Even though I wasn’t behind the decks this time, being a part of the crowd for Jamie Jones’s Paradise party at DC-10 will be something I’ll never ever forget.

at their peak. ________________________________ www.soundcloud.com/mrsarpa www.mrsarpa.com

What is your advice to emerging talent, and how can they set aside any fears and pursue their dreams with courage?

My advice is to be authentic and not follow the crowd. If you want to be recognised for something, stick with your own style and idea, and persist with it. Staying focused on your goals is the key, and making small steps every day. It can be a bit nerve-racking in front of crowds, but feel the fear and do it anyway, it gets easier.

Name one track that never gets old for you no matter how many times you hear it?

The one track that will never get old for me has to be Kamillian – Guidance (Space Brothers Mix). For me this is something I would hear every weekend in the nightclubs in Sydney and it would never disappoint.

If you could get eternally stuck in one year's music scene, which year would that be?

I would love to be taken back to the year of 1999. To me, all genres of music, whether it was hip hop, rap, house, italodance, trance, eurodance were all 78

SEKSiCuLLTURE - Awakening Hearts

Let It Be In our pain and sufferings, When all hope seems lost, Give light to the opportunity of acceptance.

In times where troubles cripple us, When there seems way for us to redeem, Find refuge in the present, even if we're down and wary.

When you feel like giving up, Overwhelmed by darkness, Close your eyes and let it be.

No time of tomorrow, No more worries from yesterday.

No wonders in today.

Just let it be.

There is a light in the present.

There is an answer in acceptance.

Take a chance on your presence.

And just let it be.

Inspired by The Beatles - Let It Be

David

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I was hit with a burst of immense, bright energy as I walked in and all of my senses were intrigued.

Over to the Dan Vilaz stage as the L’Aventure Du Sucre played hosts to group Rasinn Kare gave a colourful the biggest music festival of performance with a lovely, lightMauritius on 3 November, Kaz'Out. hearted flow and a touch of soulful grooves. Fusing the modern with the traditional, they expose emotions through their music.

I found myself weaving through nooks and crannies, hazily widening my eyes at the various curious things around me, holding one first intention of following the music. I found my way to the front of the Kanbar stage and was welcomed by rock / grunge group UnMind. Their wild, fist-pumping, jump-up sounds had me rocking out! It was so cool to even see little kids going crazy to this untamed music. They have a signature of powerful guitar riffs and are inspired by the likes of Nirvana, Seether and Foo Fighters.

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Simultaneously over on the Kanbar stage, DJ duo Revival brought fun, flavourful island dance vibes and got my hips wiggling. They were also joined by live percussions from a conga player. With Afro-oriented rhythms, they are influenced by Bernard Desmarais, John Digweed and Sasha.

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Off to the Kaz-Apero stage where the musical group Ziskakan entertained the crowd. They commenced with a lively folk style and then moved to a bold, sort of rock edge which was really cool. This maloya genre is native to Reunion islands and was at one time banned by authorities, the band maintain these roots whilst also developing it with a modern concept.

Finally I got the opportunity to watch the band Patyatann perform on the Dan Vilaz stage. Their music was so pretty and versatile. The songs were so unique, each with a different state of mind and energy. It was audio poetry and you were pulled, like a magnet, to their emotions.

Using native instruments, they celebrate the island’s cultural diversity and spirituality.

Kaz’Out was such an incredible experience. Fantastic musicians, your curiosity being excited at every turn and a joyous atmosphere. The people were bundled together in a carefree daze. We were all at one, united by the love of music. __________________________________ www.kaz-out.com

Trendy DJ group Økuna took to the Kanbar stage with rhythmic and melodic house music. Bouncing and swaying to their set, you’re lulled by their warm tones. Their music is described as a journey between dream and reality, with the fine balance of choppy beats and mesmerising sounds.

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Acoustic Truth When I heard Acoustic Truth’s recent song ‘You Make Me Great’, I was once again moved by their warm, harmonized voices. They fit together like a hand and glove.

When Ryan and Sarah Lendy met at Chicago summer camp for children with special needs, neither knew how significant they would become to each other and how they would influence the lives of so many others through their music.

In 2011 these best friends wrote their first song together. After several years and several life changes, their songwriting is stronger than ever. No longer solely best friends, they are now husband and wife, and mother and father to son Jeremiah.

The pair have always hoped their music would provide hope and inspiration to others. Prior to the birth of their son the couple had been touring, playing for audiences throughout the United States. Once Jeremiah was born, they took some time to focus on their songwriting. They began playing more in their church and moving towards outreach for Christ.

Initially their music while inspirational was mostly secular and they were not sure how their established fans would take their transition into the realm of contemporary Christian music. Thankfully though, their fans have been very supportive and, through the transition, they have gained a tremendous number of new fans. It seems people are finding their music, which focuses on personal stories and daily struggles, to be a relatable and welcomed influence.

This choice has been a blessing to this talented team. It has opened the doors to many new opportunities which are currently in the works. They have also had the opportunity to team up with the Christian network, Gods 411. This pairing has been a tremendous help in spreading their music with their latest video reaching five million people in a matter of 28 days. They never imagined that was possible. However, they continue to remain humble and stress that for them it is about the music and about the people.

The future is looking positive for this uplifting couple with current talks in the works surrounding their music and their songwriting. Hopefully, we will see some big announcements from them soon. www.facebook.com/AcousticTruth www.AcousticTruthOfficial.com

The Sassy Yank

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2018 not only came in with a bang, but it appears to be going out with a bang as we see the original Artful Dodger duo continue to make a comeback as Original Dodger. Legendary producers Pete Devereux and Mark Hill have been back in the studio and have released the 'Momentum' album.

and ‘Please Don’t Turn Me On’ ft Lifford.

This movement eventually came to a end with many stating that the genre died, but this is simply not true.

Producers never stopped making great UKG, it just went back to the underground scene. A lot changed for the duo too in that phase and they ended up selling the usage of the “Artful Dodger” name. Fast-forward to the present day, we see that name on events and many still assume that they are the former stars. However, that identity is now formed of new members and a whole new concept.

Let’s begin with a little trip down memory lane. Artful Dodger are wellknown to be amidst the huge buzz of UK Garage in the 90’s and early 00’s.

They quickly rose to fame with hits including ‘Movin’ Too Fast’ ft Romina Johnson, ‘Re-Rewind’ ft Craig David

Neither one of the original producers have sat idle over the years. They both have continued their musical endeavors. Mark Hill continued producing under the name Artful with tracks including ‘Could Just Be The Baseline’ ft Kal Lavelle and ‘Architect’

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ft Cairo. He also launched 60hz, an underground, artist-controlled record label for garage, dance and RnB souls of the future. Pete Devereux continued producing house and garage music under the name DEVolution together with Tom Devos. Their most notable track is ‘Good Love’ ft Amy Pearson, which has become a timeless dance piece.

August 2016, this is the first glimpse we had of a reunion for the pair. That selfie. The two with finger’s to their lips in sign of a hushed secret, a teasing hashtag of #mumstheword and the mention of talking about “some stuff”.

I think it’s fair to say that the majority of UK Garage fans went crazy! The rebranding was unveiled and we were introduced to Original Dodger. May 2017 saw the release of their first single ‘Millionaire’ ft Daecolm X P Money X DaVinChe which was a fresh and lively number. ’Find Space’ ft Shakka came next in December of the same year, with emotive vocals and an appealing track. This start not only showed off their skills once more, but also made the statement that no matter how long it’s been and what has passed, these two are still legends.

We are loving the new EP and are looking forward to many more releases from this talented duo. We’re also thrilled to have the lads chat with us as they embark on this new journey...

Tell us about yourselves and how you started out in the music industry Mark: I’ve been interested in music as long as I remember, both my grandfathers were very musical and I loved messing about with instruments and singing when I was young. While at school i decided to change from pursuing a career in architecture to study music properly, and then set up a studio in Southampton while at uni. It was at that studio I met Pete and Craig David.

Pete: I have played the piano since the age of 4 and began DJing in Southampton soon after I finished college in the mid 90’s, at which point I picked up the Yellow Pages and called Mark’s studio to book some time in, which was the beginning of the original Artful Dodger project. I took some time out after the shenanigans of AD and began working on a project called The Midnight Circus for a few years before forming DEVolution, which was all a lot Released in September 2018, the of fun.

Momentum EP is a fun and lively set of tracks. ‘Give You Up’ ft Ida has a no- The Momemtum EP., what were the nonsense attitude and a sexy edge to ideas behind it? the bass. The Vybz Riddim Mix takes down the pace and adds colourful If we’re honest the title was a little ironic beats. The second instalment is and born out of frustration of the sheer ‘Bubblin’’ ft Daniel Bedingfield which time it was taking to get tracks released. has a gorgeous bouncy rhythm and fire We also wanted to make a commitment in those vocals. The DVRX VIP Mix to ourselves and fans that twists this with a choppy house style.

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the intention moving forward is to create much more momentum with music coming out and shows, as we have been doing lately.

chatted and suggested we meet for a coffee to think of a solution. After posting a selfie on socials, the positive response was overwhelming and it seemed a natural point to get back in Do you find your fan base to be more the studio spread across the globe now than before? If so, do you believe that is due What are your aims ? to the accessibility of social media?

Just to enjoy it, work with good people, It certainly is more widespread, as are carry on a legacy that we’re proud of and most things these days, which is such a get back out in front of people to see refreshing feeling as we always felt their reaction to the music back in 2000 that we weren’t getting the chance to push the tracks overseas Advice for those in the music industry? as much as we would have liked. Social media is at times a blessing and a curse, Stick at it and never stop learning and but it is brilliant that you can connect honing your craft. It’s so easy to make music with people all around the globe music these days that sounds finished, instantly. but there are few people that will consistently produce timeless music, Let’s rewind, how do you feel now you need to put the hours in and enjoy it. looking back on your past stardom?

Which artists are you really into right Well looking back we could say that we now? made a lot of bad moves but, I think we’d both say that, ultimately some of the Mark: I’m really enjoying Kastle, Mind of bad moves lead to good things so it’s a Dragon, James TW on an acoustic tip hard to say that we would have changed & Tom Misch. anything. We survived it most importantly and still love doing what Pete: I love 21 Pilots and every time we do and there were so many Mantra by Bring Me The Horizon comes incredible moments like playing to on in the car I nearly blow the speakers! enormous crowds in Glastonbury, Great to see Purple Disco Machine performing on the now defunct Top of crossing over to a bigger audience too. the Pops was pretty cool, not to mention __________________________________ Jools Holland. The only regret would be not getting a Blue Peter badge! www.originaldodger.com The reunion, simply how did it occur?

We were both making dance music again and frustrated with the confusion over the name, our management 86

The Sassy Yank & Ruby

Aussi libre que moi Greetings from the island hoping you are all well!

My share is about Calogero, a French artist I first listened to back in early 2000's.

I love his style, music and lyrics. A Frenchie Rock with much drive and groove. What I love the most is that Calogero is a bass player and his bass lines are awesome, punchy and catchy. His song "Aussi Libre Que Moi" was sounding some weeks ago. The lyrics were enticing; do not resist, come and embrace a new relationship; freely.

Back at the start of June, days were quite hard especially from a career perspective, and #tbh was not in a mood to talk about it or even talk to people. Well, the physical stress was here; being on the job reveals to be more complicated as the feeling of ownership (from the top) was nowhere to be found. I needed direction and change.

Guess what, I'm about to jump from an unknown height to reach out my goal of being my own boss! The major shift was that I needed to free myself from old beliefs, standards or preconceptions of life and embrace a new way of thinking. Reaching out for my essential needs, and most of all be happy. Things are shaping up as I am closing my last day as an employee.

I'm sharing with hope that it could be a positive boost for others, knowing that people are changing, willing to take risks and most of all believing in their own capacity and dreams.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Take care at your end. Be showered by light and be blessed.

Stv

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Sunset beach party Royauté by PURE, was held on 2 November at the beautiful location of The St. Regis Mauritius Resort, Le Morne. The luxury rendezvous theme allowed guests to unwind, indulge in fine tastes and be compelled by the music.

Tess was next onto the decks. She heated things up with a combination of flavourful sounds, upbeat tempos and a touch of the dark side. She really stood out, imparting her own excitement and joyful energy to the crowd. With a love for music through every moment in life, the underground scene gives Tess chills and she aims to inspire women to follow their dreams.

Guy Mantzur completed the trio. When he stepped onto that stage, the crowd went wild! This fire did not burn out as he brought the party to a climax like an unstoppable adrenaline shot. His set was comprised of lively rhythmic pulses, hard-hitting power and sinful waves of deep intensity. With a unique blend of hypnotic melodies and seductive grooves, He made us feel the music, feel its soul and get lost in it.

Matsonic kicked off the event with “Everything was perfect: people warm grooves and a chilled were happy, the weather was atmosphere. There were hints of soulful perfect, music was great and the and funky elements in his set to wet our energy was fantastic." appetites. From a young age Matsonic has been immersed in music with influences of rock, jazz and classical - Javed Vayid, Event Organiser being fused into his electronic music mixes.

Royautê was simply electric. From an initial state of beauty and pleasures, the frame of mind transitioned to a spark of excitement. The sense of serenity remained and you just let loose in that moment. The cherry on top was seeing Javed, the event organiser, dancing on stage madly with a huge grin on his face!

That’s what life is about - putting your all into something you love, and enjoying it. www.facebook.com/puremru 88

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4 YEARS OF D3EP Four years ago, legendary DJ/producer Grant Nelson launched a new radio station. Little did he know that it would not only be a radio station but would also become a family of it’s own!

It's the 1st of September. 4 years ago today I launched something a little bit different, never expecting it to become what it has today. The concept was to provide a platform and space for the music I loved without having to resort to any form of advertising, sponsors, click bait, customer tracking / analytics or any other kind of stuff that I felt (at the time, and even more so now) was ruining the once free and open internet.

I spent months going through mixtapes, literally listened to thousands of them from DJs all over the world, searching for what I considered to be some of the best undiscovered (in some cases) talent out there. We dropped our first beats at 00:00 on the 1st September 2014 and have been non-stop ever since.

Over a hundred DJs from every corner of the planet and 4 years later and I couldn't be any prouder of the D3EP family. Not just for their skills and music selection and not just for their endless dedication to deliver the best of the best to our ear holes week in, week out, but also for the incredible world-wide community that they have created through their raw passion for the music.

I honestly can't thank everybody involved enough, whether behind the scenes or front of house and, of course, to all of you that tune in as it's your ears that make this all worthwhile.

Lastly, watch out for some brilliant new additions to our DJ family over the coming weeks and thank you once again for keeping it D3EP! - Grant Nelson

www.d3ep.com www.facebook.com/d3epradio

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Always a reason to dance There is nothing wrong with dancing or going out to party. I refuse to accept it when I hear people tell “Oh I’m too old for all that now. I don’t go out dancing. I don’t rave anymore.” I’m of the conception that age has no bearing on if you should go out and shake a leg. Whether you have smooth dance moves like MJ or have 2 left feet like the old fella down the boozer smashed from too many lagers and a couple of jaeger bombs, you should always feel free to dance. We’re all accustomed to that age old saying “Dance like nobody’s watching” and there is many a reason to take note of those words, little more important than that dancing is good for the mind, body & soul.

Picture this, it’s 7am on a cold Monday morning and you’re starting your daily journey. It might even be raining a little, but yet there is a random commuter avidly smiling whilst head bopping, foot tapping or even outright dancing whilst somewhat oblivious to the reactions of anybody else. Involved in their own private silent disco. Your first thought, most likely would be to think they were perhaps a touch crazy, but the chances are, it’s the signs of happiness that you are witnessing. An individual absorbed in a vibe that they feel right through their body. There has been extensive research into the connection between music, dance and health, all of which conclude with the answer that music and dancing is good for us.

“And those who were seen dancing were thought to be insane by those who could not hear the music.” - Friedrich Nietzsche.

The correlation between music and mental health is something that cannot be doubted. For many a generation it has long been noted that the sound of music has a bearing on ones mental well-being and German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche was one of many who picked up on this.

The great philosopher wrote numerous books on music and the mind but one of his aphorisms that always stands out is one written in 1889. “What trifles constitute happiness! The sound of a bagpipe. Without music life would be a mistake.” On a personal note I find this is a statement to be wholly true, as I view music as being life. We all live our lives in our very own way, tailor-made to a manner which suits us best but in the end we are all chasing the same target. HAPPINESS. Happiness is like the wall bracket that keeps your plasma TV attached to 90

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the wall, stable and secure stopping you from falling. If that bracket somehow manages to defect, it can leave things hanging in the balance, just like happiness. So it comes as no surprise to hear that many of us see the dancefloor as a sanctuary, a safe place or even an escape from the real world. The dancefloor is a place where music rules and good vibes are usually amplified. It’s a scientific fact that music releases dopamine into the brain giving us that feeling of euphoria that we can get from music, and dopamine is directly linked to happiness. Such things as depression, apathy and chronic fatigue can all be linked to dopamine deficiency - therefore making music essential to life. Music is therapeutic and it can also have the power to amplify your mood. Whether your mood be one of pure elation or a mood of a more downbeat nature, the sound of notes can have a part to play in how that mood manifests and undeniably your mood can affect your state of mind.

“Where words fail, music speaks.” - Hans Christian Andersen Music therapy has long been a part of Western medicine since the 1950’s and there have been numerous studies into the correlation between music & health. Researchers from McGill University in Montreal found in a study that listening to music that you enjoy can increase dopamine levels by 9% in individuals. Mental health is an issue that affects us all in some way as we are all prone to having highs & lows within life. It’s just natural but I’d always advise that a person seek help if they ever feel like they need it. As they say, prevention is always better than cure, so it’s important to not hang up your dancing shoes.

You’ll find that when dancing, an ample flow of mood-improving chemicals are released helping to elevate our mental state; even one lively dance session has been proven to reduce depression in comparison to vigorous exercise or listening to music, according to research conducted by The Arts in Psychotherapy. In the UK we may be finding it harder to find cool places to go dancing, especially for underground music lovers but there is always a place to dance. So for the sake of a positive mental health I encourage you all to grab your glad rags, dig out them dancing shoes and go dance the night away.

Cessle

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An Introduction To Mac Miller After the passing from apparent drug overdose at his studio city home In California in September of Pittsburgh born and raised rapper, artist and producer Mac Miller, it seems fitting to say a few words about him. As a relatively late starter to Mac Miller, I’ll admit I only became aware of Mac's work after the release of the excellent laid-back groovy track ‘Dang’ featuring Anderson.Paak. I soon realised this young 20-something year old white rapper had a lot more about him than just rapping. Producing under the name Larry Fisherman amongst other pseudonyms, real name Malcolm McCormick could play bass, lead guitar and drums. He was an excellent keyboardist, produced his own beats and sang, all by his early twenties.

In 2010, he signed a record deal with Pittsburgh-based indie record label Rostrum Records and released his debut album ‘Blue Slide Park’ which was released on November 8, 2011. In July 2011 the title was announced, having been named after a section of Frick Park (which is known as Blue Slide Park) in Pittsburgh. The park section is at the corner of Beechwood Blvd and Nicholson Street which is just two blocks from Taylor Allderdice High School where Miller attended, and was his childhood hang out.

Many people in Europe only really knew Mac Miller from dating Ariana Grande but had he not passed on 6th September 2018, with his ever constantly evolving music style, Mac Miller could do it all. And, I’m sure he would have undoubtedly gone on to be a massive worldwide artist having already achieved house-hold name status in the USA. But, unfortunately it seems Mac Miller finally lost his battle with drugs, depression and demons which he talked openly about in many interviews. Even with all his problems, it did not stop Mac releasing five studio albums before his untimely death at the age of just 26. He has since received countless tributes from other artists in his field including Travis Scott, Childish Gambino, Kendrick Lamar, Macklemore, Maroon 5, Elton John and many more.

I’ve personally been producing and realising many records since 1991 and I’m astonished how much Mac Miller learned and contributed to the music world by his mid 20’s. A true talent and engaging character that will be sorely missed.

Who says a white guy can't have soul?

RIP Malcolm Mccormick, 19 January 1992 - 7 September 2018

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Rokuro

Every music piece needs a rest... Sometimes we get so into life and we keep playing our song, we forget to give ourselves a little space and perspective to breath in.

David

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place, watching the sea, clear mind always helps me to set up my thoughts and get focused regarding Guy Mantzur has risen through Tel creating.

Aviv’s underground movement and is now a worldwide sensation. I was able You co-own PlattenBank Records, to chat to him about the event and his what are the aims of the label? career...

Tell us about yourself and how you Plattenbank is my label in the last 12 years, it became our life project. We started in music.

It all started way back when I was 6 years old, I discovered my love for music and started playing piano for five years, then guitar.

are planning every move with the label and always trying to move forward with our sound and music.

One of our goals is to give a platform for artists, just by their music and not by their success or profile. For us music comes first and it always feels good to discover new pearls.

At the age of 17 I started producing and got more and more into electronic music, it started from chill out and developed into what I'm doing today. What advice do you have for aspiring You rocked Mauritius, what did you think about the event?

I really loved the show in Mauritius. The place was magic for my music and the event was well-produced, but the big thanks goes to the amazing crowd who came and danced non-stop. Definitely one of my favorite spots from now on.

DJs & producers?

Avoid following trends, they all have a short life time and they will end at some point . Be loyal to your true love and music style, and always keep what you are doing exciting. ________________________________ www.guymantzur.com

You have releases on Lost & Found, New State Music, Kompakt and more... What inspires you when producing music?

I can be inspired by many things, it can be a movie I saw, new or old songs i hear, people I meet or DJ sets I discover... I found lately that one of the most inspiring things for me is just take to some time off in a magic 94

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Audiation Magazine, Issue AM054 On The Cover: D-Vox www.facebook.com/dvoxdj Order Print Copy: www.peecho.com/print/en/476977

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With love Ruby, Rokuro, Cessle, Sarah, Malachi, Andy, David, Steve, Jessie, Mary, Ashna, Tamara, Christina & Sharm

Audiation Issue AM054, 10th January 2019 Copyright 2019 © Audiation Magazine Ltd