GUEDRA GUEDRA’S “VEXILLOLOGY” KICKS OFF THE REVIEWS ON PAGE 56
››SMASHING RECORDS! Q&A WITH DIMITRI VEGAS & LIKE MIKE ON TEN YEARS+ OF SMASH THE HOUSE
››LUIS FERNANDO AND HIS THOUGHT PROVOKING ART
HOW
DENNIS SHEPERD FOUND HIS SUNSHINE +
ON THE RISE
PRODUCER & BEAT MAKER MISS FIYA LOUISAHHH EDONE LOST IDENTITIES
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Features
FEBRUARY 2021
42 DENNIS SHEPERD
SOMETIMES IN LIFE YOU’VE GOT TO EXPERIENCE SOMETHING FIRSTHAND IN ORDER TO EFFECTIVELY RELATE TO IT, AND THAT GOES FOR BOTH THE GOOD AND THE NOT-SO. GERMAN DJ/PRODUCER DENNIS SHEPERD EMBARKED ON HIS THIRD ALBUM FROM WHAT HE DESCRIBES AS “A VERY DARK PLACE.” TIM STARK DELIVERS THE CONVERSATION WITH DENNIS DISCUSSING MUSIC, METHOD AND NO SMALL DEGREE OF MENTAL HEALTH.
50 LUIS FERNANDO
LUIS FERNANDO IS NOT A STRANGER TO THE PAGES OF BEATSELECTOR MAGAZINE. WE’VE REVIEWED HIS RELEASES, PROFILED HIM AND DID AN “AT HOME” FEATURE AS WELL. NOW WE DEDICATE A FEW PAGES EXHIBITING HIS STRIKING VISUAL ARTS/PAINTING TALENT.
Departments 10 ICYMI
A ROUND-UP OF RECENT NEWS FROM AROUND THE WEB.
18 NEW MUSIC PREVIEWS
WAX TAILOR, MAKO, SOUL CLAP, LP GIOBBI AND FLUX PAVILION.
28 BUZZ WORTHY/ARTIST PROFILES LOUISAHHH, EDONE, LOST IDENTITIES.
32 LABEL WATCH
DIMITRI VEGAS & LIKE MIKE’S SMASH THE HOUSE.
36 ON THE RISE
PRODUCER & BEAT MAKER MISS FIYA
56 REVIEWS
GUEDRA GUEDRA’S EXOTIC ALBUM “VEXILLOLOGY” GETS HIGH MARKS. SHOULD YOU GET THE ALBUM? THE ONLY ANSWER IS A MOST DEFINITELY YES AND WE TELL YOU WHY.
OPENING NOTES by JOSEPH WENSELL
FEBRUARY 2021 Our February 2021 Cover Artist, Dennis Sheperd, gets deeply personal with Tim Stark discussing his new album, “Find The Sunrise” (Black Hole Recordings), the seriousness of mental health and how he is overcoming and dealing with his own state of mind.
Vegas & Like Mike discussing their ten year’s of running the iconic label Smash The House. Closing up the summer issue, we review Guedra Guedra’s awesome new album “Vexillology” on On The Corner Records and few others that
Our other feature interview is with Techno artist Luis Fernando. In addition to producing cutting edge music, Luis also dabbles in painting. We catch up with Luis discussing his thought provoking paintings as well as his inspirations and influences. This issue’s Buzz Worthy/Artist Profiles include Louisahhh, EdOne and Lost Identities. New to Beatselector Magazine is our “On The Rise” column. Shon Murdock delivers the Q&A with Producer and beat maker Miss Fiya discussing pro-audio gear, musical influences and more. Our Label Watch column features a great Q&A with Dimitri
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should be in your music libraries. We also catch you up with recent ICYMI news and a several new music previews. Read, stay safe and be healthy! —JW
B EATSELECTOR Moving Electronic Music Forward
PUBLISHER
JOSEPH WENSELL CONTRIBUTORS Catherine Strickland Cody Miller Cory Royster Erik L. Richardson Holly Roscoe James Arena Joseph Arthur Karin Haslinger Leo Weaver Shon Murdock Tim Stark Vladimir Jean-Philippe Zach Miller
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ICYMI NEWS FROM AROUND THE WEB n DJ International is the
iconic record label steeped in authenticity and dance music history. It was the label that introduced the world to Chicago House, birthing it and nurturing it in its infancy, releasing the first ever House Music long player in 1986 “The House Sound Of Chicago.” It is a label with an outstanding discography populated by the now legendary artists of the time, untouchable DJs like Frankie Knuckles, Fingers Inc (Larry Heard & Robert Owens), Ron Hardy, Steve ‘Silk” Hurley, Farley ‘Jackmaster’ Funk, Joe Smooth, Darryl Pandy and Marshall Jefferson. It now relaunches and returns in 2021 acquired and under exclusive license to Last Man Music, still with its original and inimitable founder at its helm Rocky Jones and the very same forward looking House music ideology, focusing on new artists as well as reintroducing the ultimate classics of the past, beginning 2021 with Anthony Thomas (pictured) “Promised Land.” Arguably up there as one of the greatest
House records ever made “Promised Land” came in at the very start of the House music movement. Originally released in 1987 by the original producer Joe Smooth and created in the spiritual home of all House Music, Chicago. Later the track crossed over international borders becoming an iconic moment globally going on to represent the essence of Ibiza’s Balearic beat. Anthony Thomas, who is the original vocalist, has now re-recorded the track, updating it but keeping the original feel, reinforcing his unifying and soulful lyrics. It was the power of these lyrics that made this a massive underground dancefloor hit with the ecstasy generation of the late 80’s and early 90’s worldwide. For DJ International as a label it didn’t stop there; the imprint was responsible for introducing the world to Farley Jackmaster Funk with his unforgettable release “Love Can’t Turn Around” (1986) as well as other genre defining moments including Marshall
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Jefferson’s “Move Your Body” and Steve Silk Hurley’s “Jack Your Body.” The latter riding a bassline from First Choice’s disco classic “Let No Man Put Asunder” earning a surprise 1987 UK No.1. In August 2020, DJ International tested the waters for a formal return and debuted a posthumous Frankie Knuckles track “Carefree (I Am A Star)” as the first release from the forthcoming Jackmaster 7 album, a follow-up to six Jackmaster albums the label put out between 1987 and 1991. With one eye on its past heritage and iconic status and a long-term view to bring us new fresh and original House music acts of tomorrow, we are sure that DJ International will once again take its place alongside the other great labels of contemporary House Music culture. Anthony Thomas “Promised Land” is out now on DJ International.
Beatselector Magazine | February 2021 | 11
ICYMI NEWS FROM AROUND THE WEB
nEXIT Festival organizers remain optimistic about
Brejcha, Metronomy, Honey Dijon and many others who will be announced soon. “We are very optimistic about the possibility of celebrating Exit’s jubilee in 2021. Given what we have all been through in the past year, the euphoria at this year’s festival can only be compared to the explosion of positive energy at the first international Exit in 2001, which occurred after a decade of isolation and conflict in the Balkans during
the 1990s of the last century. It was this release of huge repressed energy 20 years ago that led to the creation of the legend of Exit as a festival with the most exciting atmosphere where performers have some of the best performances in their careers. The safety of all our visitors, artists and staff is of course a priority, and last years Life Stream project gave us a vital opportunity to prove it is possible to host a Covid secure event with health and safety measures at the highest level.” - said Dušan Kovačević, founder of EXIT festival.
the third in Europe and the seventh in the world in terms of the level of vaccinated population. This means that over 1 million people or about 15% of the total population will be vaccinated every month. Also according to previous research and the opinion of health experts at least 40% of people in Serbia already have Covid antibodies, although it is believed that this percentage is much higher. It is also expected that because of the high rate of mass vaccination, minimization of the virus activity will be achieved in the spring, bringing back the normalization of life and the relaxation of restrictive measures. Last year, EXIT Festival was one of the few
their 20th anniversary edition and would like to reassure fans who have contacted them in the wake of the cancellation of the Glastonbury Festival. Dates for this years event are set for July 8-11, 2021 at the iconic Petrovaradin Fortress with world stars such as David Guetta, DJ Snake, Tyga, Eric Prydz b2b Four Tet, Paul Kalkbrenner, Nina Kraviz, Solomon, Boris
Reasons for optimism are taken from the excellent speed of vaccination that Serbia has achieved, being
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festival events to have a live audience with its Life Stream project. A special challenge was the organization of the event itself, but even on such a demanding task, incomparable to anything so far, EXIT showed how a completely safe event could be organized even during a pandemic with the correct measures in place. This event was realized in cooperation with the UN World Food Program, the largest humanitarian organization in the world and the current winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, and it marked the 20th anniversary of the festival, whose central celebration will take place July 8-11, 2021 at Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad, Serbia. Some of the most prominent musical artists in the region and the world have already confirmed their performances at the festival this summer. These include David Guetta, DJ Snake, Tyga, Eric Prydz b2b Four Tet, Paul Kalkbrenner, Nina Kraviz, Boris Brejcha, Sheck Wes, Solomun, Sepultura, Metronomy, Dax J, Kobosil, Denis Sulta, Honey Dijon, Laibach, Juliana Huxtable, Francois X, 999999999 live, Onyvaa,
Monosaccharide, Bokee, VTSS, SPFDJ, Marko Nastić, After Affair, Kristijan Molnar, Bokee, Coeus, Goblini, Ilija Djoković, Lag, Insolate, Layzie, Massimo, Reblok, Runy, Space Motion, and Thundermother. EXIT Festival was established in 2000 in University Park as a student movement for the fight for peace and freedom, both in Serbia and in the Balkans. Over the past 20 years, it has grown into one of the most eminent music festivals in the world, bringing to Novi Sad, its venue, as many as two Best European Festival titles won for 2013 and 2017. The festival is organized at one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe. Social responsibility remains one of the key aspects of the Festival through the work of the EXIT Foundation, whose social activism is focused on youth development and peace promotion, creative industries, environmental protection and destination branding. More information at the EXIT website: www.exitfest. org/en/
Beatselector Magazine | February 2021 | 13
ICYMI NEWS FROM AROUND THE WEB
n LifeLive.io from Berlin is one of the most
gigs and concerts together with others and to spontaneously meet people from all over the world in an interactive way. Especially for the event industry, LifeLive.io as a B2B partner offers a new and exciting opportunity to generate revenue. Events on LifeLive.io can be refinanced via ticket-sales that simultaneously reactivate the economic cycle in a reasonable way, which in turn allows to remunerate artists and musicians in a fair manner.
Users who can see each other are constantly reassembled at shuffle-intervals. LifeLive.io also offers the option of switching between different “floors,” just as if you were moving from one festival stage to the next. This aspect of communication and interactive participation in particular offers such an important added value for everyone, which is so sorely missed, especially in these Corona times. LifeLive.io opens the possibility to experience
“We are musicians ourselves. We see and feel how hard this time has just become around us. Many friends of ours within the event industry have been affected by the pandemic. Side by side we want to make a contribution to improving this situation with LifeLive. io”, explain Daniel Breyer and Felix Reiter (Founder LifeLife.io). Concert halls, clubs and festivals can stream their events live via the platform, while users can participate and interact with each other from home. The first beta events, still without ticket
exciting and promising start-ups in the techindustry. The innovative concept is based on an interactive streaming platform that allows users not only to participate in a streamed live event - such as a concert, club gig or festival stage - but also to communicate individually with other users via live video broadcast. And as well, to chat with all the other users.
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pre-sales, went more than promising. “We are already in talks with various festival promoters – the need for a solution during the current Corona situation on the part of the event industry is absolutely enormous. LifeLive.io is the right answer,” informs Lars Kaemmerer (Head of PR & Business Development LifeLive.io). For the implementation of the sophisticated technology, the founders brought “WRD Labs” on board, who have successfully realized projects for major IT customers such as Telekom and Vodafone. LifeLive.io can already serve several thousand viewers communicating interactively with each other in parallel. “Currently, we are in negotiations with first interested investors and also have many more ideas on how to equip the platform with additional features,” says Daniel Breyer. In order to provide a high image resolution in a perfectly efficient way, LifeLive uses a peer-to-peer based video streaming, which means the live-videos are forwarded from browser to browser. This also minimizes traffic via the server.
a Franco-American composer, conductor, producer and arranger, as well as the genre-bending Icelandic band HUGAR and the Berlin electro-acoustic duo STIMMING X LAMBERT. News of additional signings will follow. Alexander Buhr, Senior Vice President of International A&R and Business Opportunities for Sony Classical, will oversee XXIM’s creative operations working closely with Hauber. Buhr previously founded the post classical label Mercury KX, and has worked with a number of leading acts in the progressive instrumental scene including Ólafur Arnalds, Anoushka Shankar, Lambert and JeanMichel Blais. Says Buhr, “In a musical universe that has, for the most part, moved beyond the confinements of genre, it is expression and values which tie musicians together. With XXIM we are creating a place to bring together likeminded acts whose visions we share, to support them in their musical and visual adventures, and to help them connect with the biggest possible audience. Our ambition is to create a strong, worldwide platform for highly individual, creative artists.”
More info: www.lifelive.io
nSony Music Masterworks today announced
the launch of XXIM RECORDS, an all-new imprint focused on the development of innovative, progressive instrumental music around the world. Pronounced ‘Twenty-One M’, XXIM features a bespoke roster of a new generation of artists whose work explores and integrates neo-classical, postrock, electronic, and ambient sounds among others. The label is based in Berlin with additional A&R support in New York and arrives with an impressive, international line up of highly talented musicians. It includes compelling newcomers EYDÍS EVENSEN, an Icelandic pianist and composer, and UÈLE LAMORE, Beatselector Magazine | February 2021 | 15
ICYMI NEWS FROM AROUND THE WEB
renowned British DJ, producer and radio presenter. AIAIAI created the series to promote and compensate musicians with new weekly mix releases on Soundcloud and Mixcloud. To date, the series has featured mixes from HAAi, Shy One, Honey Dijon, Waajeed, DJ Krust, and many more. The effort intends to equip artists to advance their creative and performance opportunities on a global stage, as nightclubs and music venues have largely faced ongoing closures and other restrictions internationally as the COVID-19 pandemic persists into 2021.
nAIAIAI has announced a DJ mix competition:
the “AIAIAI 2021 Mix Contest.” Launching 26th January, and running for 4 weeks, the ‘AIAIAI 2021 Mix Contest’ gives undiscovered talent the opportunity to join a critically-acclaimed DJ mix series and win some incredible prizes including a $1000 fee, Traktor Kontrol S2, Novation Launchpad Pro, Ableton Live 10 Suite, Point Blank Online Ableton course, full AIAIAI TMA-2 set-up (hd, dj, wireless) and much more. AIAIAI and partners will select a shortlist of entries and the final decision will be made by Benji B, who co-created the series. In addition to the main prize, other prizes will be given for the most played mix, and the top five played mixes (please see above for the full prize list and breakdown). The total prize value is in excess of $7000. Entrants need to upload their 60 minute mix to SoundCloud, full details can be found at: https:// aiaiai.audio/pages/keep-making-music. AIAIAI launched its new online mix series in October 2020 in partnership with Benji B, the internationally
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January 2021 saw AIAIAI release the first in a new short film series giving an exclusive insight into some of contemporary music’s leading artistic talents. Made available via AIAIAI’s YouTube channel, “My Process” launched with Nubya Garcia, the multi-award-winning saxophonist and composer whose debut album SOURCE brought her wide critical acclaim last year. 2020 saw AIAIAI produce collaborations with NTS, Braindead, and KNTXT, and create partnerships with Serato, and Native Instruments. AIAIAI co-founder Frederik Jørgensen said:“We want to give people the inspiration to create and to keep exploring their talent during the current covid-19 pandemic and beyond. Together with our partners at Point Blank Music School, Novation, and Ableton, with the AIAIAI 2021 Mix Contest we’re giving material help with a paid fee, some incredible hardware and education prizes, as well as a platform alongside some of the best DJs in the world. Runners up prizes will be chosen by our community.” HOW TO SUBMIT THE MIX 1: Upload your 60 minute mix to SoundCloud with #aiaiai2021mix and @aiaiai.audio. 2: Share your SoundCloud cover on Instagram, and tag @aiaiai.audio and #aiaiai2021mix. 3: And you will be in the race to be featured in the Mix series. 4: Competition ends February 28th.
n Over the past 20 years, Above & Beyond
and their label, Anjunabeats, have launched the careers of some electronic music’s most-respected names; Andrew Bayer, Arty, Audien, ilan Bluestone, Seven Lions, and Mat Zo to name but a few. In 2020, Anjunabeats signed more new artists than ever before. Anjunabeats is proud to announce a new EP series highlighting the next generation of producers and championing emerging artists from around the world: Anjunabeats Rising. Parallels, Nourey & ZOYA, and GVN feature on the first edition of this exciting new series, Anjunabeats Rising Volume 1. Parallels “Home” sees Above & Beyond Group Therapy Radio frequent flyers Declan James and Lycii follow up their “All In” remix from 2019. Bassline-heavy and reminiscent of recent work Zoya
Nourey
from Fatum and Genix, “Home” is a quintessential Anjuna anthem. “All Night” pairs Egyptian-born, Boston-based producer Nourey with Bulgarian singer/songwriter and producer ZOYA. An experimental blend that combines elements of trance, house, and jazz, “All Night” turned the heads of label bosses Above & Beyond, earning Nourey and Zoya the title of ‘Record Of The Week’ in A&B’s first radio show of 2021. Completing the package, the UK’s GVN makes his first appearance on Anjunabeats. With recent support from BBC Radio 1’s Danny Howard, a collaboration with Third Party, and a release on Martin Garrix STMPD label under his belt, “I Don’t” marries trance with breakbeat. Expect much more from GVN on Anjunabeats in 2021. Anjunabeats Rising Volume 1 is out now. GVN
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UN REPEAT NEW RELEASE//PREVIEWS
Renowned producer Wax Tailor has released a new album, The Shadow Of Their Suns, on January 8, 2021 via Lab’oratoire. With 6 studio albums and more than 800 concerts in 60 countries and numerous awards, Wax Tailor is recognized as one of the main ambassadors of the electro-hip hop international scene. The Shadow Of Their Suns is the producer’s first studio album to be released in 5 years; treating the fans to an array of darkly elegant “sound features’ accompanied by a new and prestigious cast. The album is available on digital platforms as well as in limited edition vinyl (which will come with two white vinyls and a slipmat included). The producer is currently preparing for a new international tour next fall which will start in France at the famous Paris Olympia on December 2, 2021. On the album, listeners will find a wealth of impressive artists including Mark Lanegan, Del the Funky Homosapien (Gorillaz, Hieroglyphics), D Smoke (Winner Netflix Rhythm + Flow, the new west coast scene sensation), the late Gil Scott Heron, Rosemary Standley (Moriarty), Mr LIF (Thievery Corporation, Def Jux), Yugen Blakrok (noticed alongside Kendrick Lamar and Vince Staples on the Black Panther album), Adeline (Brooklyn’s Best Kept secret soul singer), Boog Brown (Detroit femcee). The album is accompanied by a music video for the newly released single, “Just A Candle” featuring the vocals of Queens Of The Stone Age’s Mark Lanegan and is a spacefaring sci-fi apocalyptic odyssey. The video was directed by Berkay Turk, who also stepped forward to create the video for ‘Misery (ft. Rosemary Standley)’, another single taken from the album which drew a dystopian portrait of a society under surveillance. The music clip was awarded Best Music Video at New York International Film Awards, Oniros Film Awards, Independent Shorts Awards of Los Angeles and Cannes Indie Short Awards so far. Speaking of the inspiration for the album Wax Tailor tells us: “’The Shadow Of Their Suns’ is an allegory for the different kind of powers that control our world. I’ve always kept this image in mind of the 99% who live in the shadow of these artificial lights, segregation, politics and mass-media. From a musical point of view, I really wanted to give more space to instrumental arrangements and my own storytelling around this topic. I’m not a lesson-giver but nothing is really neutral, we live in a sick world and music can be food for thought.”
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UN REPEAT NEW RELEASE//PREVIEWS
Critically-acclaimed producer, songwriter, and musician Alex Seaver, professionally known as Mako, has been working tirelessly on his sophomore album, “Fable,” available now via Ultra Music, features his latest single “Again” in addition to four unreleased tracks to supplement the five lead singles “Breathe,” “ Murder,” “Coyote,” “Chameleon” and “Parable.” The project marks a pivotal moment in Seaver’s career, as he abandons genre constraints and moves in a new creative direction, following the release of the debut album, “Hourglass.” Despite the circumstances, 2020 has been quite a productive year for Seaver. In addition to finishing his sophomore album, he has continued to work hand in hand with the team behind Riot Games’ League of Legends, co-writing and co-producing many of their biggest releases all while lending his scoring talents to their debut TV series, Arcane. Mako has showcased his undeniable musical talent with each new release in his discography. As a proficient and multifaceted musician, his dedication to his craft is evident as he expands the project to new territories. His recent singles “Parable,” “Chameleon,” “Murder,” “Breathe” and “Coyote” have all given glimpses of what was to come from his forthcoming album, Fable. Speaking of the new album, MAKO says “Each of the songs on the album represents a specific moment from my life, while I was working on the record. I re-wrote these memories into stories, represented by individual animals, as well as a few significant objects. I think everyone knows at this point that I love being in the studio. I’m hoping that the world takes a turn for the better next year and that I will have the opportunity to go out on the road playing songs from the new album.” “Fable” is available now via Ultra Music. Get it here.
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UN REPEAT NEW RELEASE//PREVIEWS
In everything they do, Soul Clap live up to their name as empathetic selectors and heartfelt producers, a two man feedback loop eternally attuned to the frequency of the listener. How does a duo from Boston become a leading name in the global dance music scene? By emphasising community, from their Crew Love artist collaborations to their DJs For Climate Action and Rave The Vote initiatives. It’s only natural that those energies would be channeled into an album with a name like WTF (World Transformation Force) and be released on such a day as Earth Day (April 22, 2021). “WTF” features collaborators like Nona Hendryx (one third of Labelle and who toured with Talking Heads), who delivers a powerful spoken word on album interlude “What If There Was No America?” It also features Tra’zae Clinton, who is the grandson of George Clinton; Harry Dennis, Chicago house music producer and lyricist who was part of the original generation of house music in the late 1970s and early 1980s; Rich Medina, a key figure of the East Coast scene, creator of Lil’ Ricky’s Rib Shack and resident for Q-Tip’s “Open” Fridays events; and ShaLor vocalist Lori Lava who burst onto NYC Club scene with classic “I’m In Love” produced by Newcleus/Dream 2 Science mastermind Cozmo D in the late 80s. “The World EP” is the first broadcast from the album featuring expertly crafted, deeply funky cuts like “Back 2 Love.” Soul Clap explains “WTF (World Transformation Force) is our reaction to what’s happening to this planet called Earth, and to us, the human beings on it. It’s a call for radical love and radical hope. Our belief that things will get better, even if we are still just beginning to learn how to get there. It’s a wake up call to action, a time for all of us to join together on the path to positive change. Dance music was born as a subversive, underground movement of marginalised people and we believe it’s our duty to follow in their footsteps and use the power of our culture for positive change. The WORLD is the planet we live on, our home, who’s gifts we rely on for survival. The TRANSFORMATION is Universal Love. A reminder that compassion, empathy and human connection from the heart are essential to our energy and have the power to heal. The FORCE is what we need to make an impact. No one said it would be an easy fight for justice, peace and our planet. With every step we take are we making our world more loving, equal and sustainable? This body of music has arrived during a time when we find ourselves with our hands in the air exclaiming WTF?! Well, the answer is exactly that: WTF! Together our force is stronger, and can transform the world as the magnitude of our universal love grows. Now is the time, we are all a WORLD TRANSFORMATION FORCE.”
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UN REPEAT NEW RELEASE//PREVIEWS
LP Giobbi is putting her Insomniac Records label debut in motion with new single “Move Your Body,” featuring long-time collaborator hermixalot. While surfing through the countless livestreams currently littering the online space, you’d be hard-pressed to find an artist more magnetic than LP Giobbi. The classically trained jazz pianist turned house music heroine has been boosting up global broadcasts with full-of-life performances that have crowned the FEMMEHOUSE founder as the official queen of quarantine. It’s safe to say she knows a thing or two about getting people to put a little pep in their step. On her first record of 2021, she starts the year off on the right foot with a timeless gem that zeroes in on the covalent bond shared between the occupants caught on opposite ends of the DJ booth. “Move Your Body” swirls itself around a rapturing vocal delivery from singer/rapper hermixalot—a permanent fixture found sprawled all across LP’s discog—as her sermon-like cadence creates a sense of urgency to succumb to the spirit-lifting groove helmed by LP Giobbi. The rallying cry is elevated to the next level with the help of a dizzying blend of shuffling drums, sweeping string arrangements, subtle acid warbles, breakbeat builds, and, of course, some riveting piano phrases thrown down by the virtuoso herself. With these two blindingly bright sources of energy working in tandem, it’s not a question of “if” but rather a matter of “when” you’re going to answer their altar call. “‘Move Your Body’ started as just a vocal that I recorded with Hermixalot,” says LP Giobbi. “I wrote down a bunch of ideas I wanted to tell the dancefloor about setting the tone for the feedback loop that is the DJ and Dancer. I take energy from their energy so I can give it right back to them, and, in return, we can all be a part of something greater than ourselves. I took this smattering of vocal ideas and put it into a dance track that I could play at the beginning of my show to set the tone for what is to come: if they show up and show out, I will do the same for them. It feels very fitting that this record found a home at Insomniac because they have been the leader in creating great shows and dancefloors for decades. It is a match made in heaven.” “Move Your Body” is now available. Get it here.
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UN REPEAT NEW RELEASE//PREVIEWS
The new era of Flux Pavilion is officially here. After celebrating a decade at the forefront of bass music along with Circus Records, it’s time for the artist to take another step forward into fresh and exciting terrain. ‘.wav’ showcases Flux Pavilion in his element with this melodic, synth, and electric guitar-driven 16-track masterpiece. The artist has evolved and grown throughout the years while maintaining his trailblazing and innovative spirit. With an array of modular synths, he’s taken the analog route for this release. Bringing his album live performance show to the world for the very first time, with guitar, synth and singing, fans can enjoy the Flux Pavilion .wav album launch livestream on February 5th and 6th (depending on location) in partnership with Moment House. The livestream will be broadcast to North and South America, Asia Pacific, and the UK & Europe, and include a full visual show, as well as the fan submitted audio clips from the “Flux Needs Your Wav” website. Tickets & full stream information can be found here. His fanbase has remained dedicated throughout the years, responding to a call to arms on Twitter where the producer used their submitted samples to craft the track ‘Twitterbird’, one of the seven previously unreleased tracks on this studio album. Back in April, he revealed the process behind this transformation in his online series ‘From The Lab ‘ streamed on YouTube and Twitch. What So Not and Feed Me bring their unique sounds to the album for ‘20:25’ featuring Chain Gang of 1974 and ‘Survive’ featuring meesh, respectively. The combination of Flux Pavilion’s new style with heavyweights like these is a gift to any electronic music fan. These are by no means the only collabs on the project, he also teamed up with the likes of Chime, GLNNA, Drowsy, and Layna amongst others ensuring a dynamic and diverse range of tracks. ‘.wav’ sees the musician show that he is fully at home in brand new territory. Taking on a new challenge has never been something Flux has shied away from and this project proves that.
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BUZZ WORTHY ARTIST PROFILES
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LOUISAHHH !"
A
s an activist who stands for and embodies female power and sex-positivity, Louisahhh, also known as Louisa Pillot, is much more than just a DJ and producer. Her career kicked off in 2011 following the success of Your Everything with Danny Daze, French techno
producer Brodinski reached out to Louisahhh asking her to move to France and become part of Bromance Records. It was here that she met collaborator Maëlstrom, bonding over their love of authentic European techno and ferocious punk ethos. Together they started the RAAR label and have since released a series of sonic tornados including records Silence Is Violence, Winter and Ascender. Not content with music alone, she currently hosts a podcast series called Sober Sex with friend Rose Romain, focusing on conversations of self-integrity, sexuality and creativity. Louisahhh’s music fights for and provides a voice for others, rooted equally in the intensity of the dancefloor and the mosh pit. As an artist at the forefront of the a new dawn of musical feminism, like her uncompromising musical heroes Karen O, Siouxsie Sioux and Shirley Manson before her, Louisahhh’s powerful and fearless message is set to be unleashed on the world via The Practice of Freedom and will mark her as punk’s essential new heroine. In her words “more love in this world, please, punks.” The Practice of Freedom, her debut album born from experiences of loss and love, told through a journey of brutally beautiful electronics, electro and techno colliding with industrial, rock and alternative sounds. Set for release on March 12th, it captures the identity of Louisahhh exquisitely, and is a record of our times, covering themes ranging from eroticism and empowerment to addiction and apocalypse, whilst finding a perfect home on the polysexual polymath label HE.SHE.THEY. The Practice of Freedom heralds the evolution of Louisahhh as she delivers her most exposing work yet, with the album’s conception coming from an exploration of the unorthodox archetype ‘feminist submissive’, based on the mantra “sin is not being true to yourself.” The album produced by American musician, music video director and photographer Vice Cooler sees ideas and lyrics by Louisahhh re-contextualised into revolutionary experimental sounds, formed through their shared love of American alternative rock. —E.D.
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BUZZ WORTHY
EDONE !"
ARTIST PROFILES
E
dOne was born in Spain with a special interest in music from a young age. He began to release music in 2013 via his first label was VIVa MUSiC and since then has released music on labels like Defected and Material. In 2014 EdOne joined forces with Bodden and was involved in this project for 2 years, which produced the track “Do It” that hit the top chart sales and was released on OFF Recordings, reaching the number 2 slot On Beatport’s Deep House Chart. Some months later, EdOne suffered an accident, a car ran over him. After a long period of recovery, EdOne restarted his career as solo artist, with releasing music on some of most important labels like Innervisions, Bedrock, Stil vor Talent, MoBlack, Selador, Suara, Endless and getting support from artist like Dixon, Ame, Maceo Plex, John Digweed, Oliver Koletzki and Nicole Moudaber among others. Today, EdOne is one of Techno’s most creative contemporary stars, and makes his debut contribution to John Digweed’s illustrious Bedrock Records, with a mesmerising 3-track offering in the form of Cramp. With the rising star’s experimental sensibilities front and center, Cramp serves as another stellar addition to Bedrock’s ever-flourishing backcatalogue. Aside from his inaugural release on the esteemed imprint, EdOne will feature on the much-anticipated forthcoming QUATTRO II compilation in February, curated by label head John Digweed as a follow up to his highly coveted QUATTRO album project. Having chartered releases via some of the circuit’s leading labels, EdOne has already exercised a great deal of artistic finesse, with his productions proving commonplace among the touring playlists of some of the industry’s biggest names. —E.D.
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BUZZ WORTHY
LOST IDENTITIES !"
ARTIST PROFILES
L
ost Identities arose at the end of 2018, when Andrea and Gianluca decided to create a new musical project. Their music is marked out by aggressive basslines, coming from Gianluca’s background, and by melodically emotional pauses that refer to Andrea’s conservatory studies. Their project took off immediately thanks to two successful releases on Trap Nation, followed by a lot of new music that let them reach over 5,5mln streams only on Spotify. In a short time, Andrea and Gianluca made their way into the world of bass music, also conquering a faithful and committed audience. Among their productions we underline “Shock Therapy”, a collaboration with Italian duo The FifthGuys and English singer Biometrix, which reached over 1mln streams on Spotify. Another one is “Project 2030”, one of the first self-released tracks. We also mention “My Life Is Going On,” a successful soundtrack cover of the notorious Netflix series “Casa de Papel,” as well as the official remix for Caravn, The FifthGuys and Simock “Your Touch.” “Homing Instinct”, the debut album by Lost Identities, was released on January 29th.with high anticipation thaks to the tracks “Shine”, “Any Other Way” and “Lost” (premiered on youBEAT’s YouTube channel). There are seven tracks on Homing Instinct” to discover the authentic sound signature of Lost Identities. An unexpected journey that will surely thrill you: are you ready to unveil the lost identity. Gianluca explains “with this album, with sounds and lyrics, we also want to give courage and hope. We want to make it clear that, when you have a goal, when you finally find the strength to break old chains that bind us, you can jump into the void. We are therefore very proud to present our first, and not the last, album. Happy listening! ” —E.D. Beatselector Magazine | February 2021 | 31
LABEL WATCH SMASH THE HOUSE
Celebrating it’s 10th year last year, the label has had a huge success rate – with the Bassjackers alone being involved in 2 genre #1’s on Beatport. The first, a collaboration with Thomas Newson, reached #1 in the Electro House chart, as did their solo track “Bring That Beat,”while their joint production with Coone and GLDY LX – “Sound Barrier,” reached #1 in the Hard Dance chart. Smash The House continues to release music from a diverse range of artists’ including the Grammy Award-winning Ne-Yo, who teamed up with label heads Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike to give us “Higher Place,” which reached #1 in Billboard’s dance/club chart, platinumselling artist Lost Frequencies, as well as a whole plethora of dancefloor destroyers including Afrojack, Blasterjaxx, Bassjackers, Chuckie, Timbaland, Missy Elliot, Fatman Scoop, Moguai, Wolfpack and Yves V. STH has also hosted the largest arena at Tomorrowland for the past 5 years, taking their party brand on further tours across the UK and Asia, and more recently impressing online around the pandemic with names inc Nervo and Timmy Trumpet. Last year saw Smash The House further diversify, with sublabels such as Smash Deep and Generation Smash thriving, and the launch of House Of House with Dimitri Vegas’ edit of “Ayo Technology” from Dino Warriors this month. Generation Smash is the perfect platfom for new talents and established artists alike to shine. Now on to the Q&A with Dimitri and Mike.
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Looking back to the launch of Smash The House in 2010, how has the label grown and have you realized the level of success you were working to achieve?
fans consume music has changed, the label is always adapting and striving to stay ahead of the curve and at the forefront of electronic music.
Dimitri: When we first started Smash The House, we wanted it to be a platform to release our own music and music from our close friends and artists we admire. The aim was to have complete creative control on our output through the label, and to see it grow as it has been! It’s been incredible to see.
What is the biggest release the label has had to date? What made it so successful?
Mike: As the label has progressed through the years, it’s been really important to try and apply the same thinking and drive as we do with all our projects. As a result, our goals and barometers of success are constantly changing, and it’s that mentality that ensures the label continues to grow. In the early days of STH, did you experience any hardships or obstacles for your releases to get exposure, airplay, sales, etc…? D: As with any new label or project in general, we were always going to have a steep learning curve and difficulties that we had to overcome. As we were having a lot of success with our own music, we were able to quickly establish our own channels for people to hear the new music we loved and we’re releasing on the label. We have always played the music of the label in our DJ sets, as that is a key factor in us signing music, so we were lucky enough to build a lot of hype on new releases by playing them. As trends and ways in which
D: We’ve had so many standout releases on the label so it’s very difficult to pick just one, as they all had a significant impact at the moment they happened. We feel very privileged to have released some of our most successful tracks on the label. One that stands out is ‘Boomshakalaka’ with Afro Bros, Sebastian Yatra, Camilo and Emilia, which currently stands at over 55 million streams. Throughout our careers, we’ve always committed to only work with people who inspire us, and that’s the same ethos we want to drive with the label. As a result, we were able to draft in such a talented group of artists, and the synergy on the single was very organic, and I think the results of the track spoke for itself and naturally resonated with a lot of fans. What would you say is the most important aspect to communicate an upcoming release and why? D: Over the years we have managed to build up a team of amazing individuals, who ensure every release gets the amount of attention it deserves. We have an amazing designer who creates engaging content and artwork that continues to highlight the Smash The House brand. Beatselector Magazine | February 2021 | 33
We believe if we put as much passion into every aspect of the releases as the artists do in writing the music, that puts us in a great position to succeed. We want our content to stand out and represent us as a label, and also stand out to people so they recognize it. Briefly explain the mission behind STH’s five sub-labels. Are there advantages to releasing on the sub labels versus putting the music out under STH label? D: The sub-labels of Smash The House are an extension of the main label. We receive so much amazing music that doesn’t fit with the Smash The House sound, but our tastes are so varied that it made sense for us to create these new labels so this amazing music can find a natural home. By separating these styles into different labels, fans can easily follow whichever label fits in with the music that they like, ensuring followers of the label trust the music we’re putting out. From a business perspective, how has the last year been for your labels? Have you had to rethink and adapt your business models and strategies due to the Cover-19 pandemic? D: 2020 was a difficult time for everyone, and music labels are no different. Any showcases have had to be online, and we haven’t been able to host the label stages at festivals as we usually have. On the flipside, an increased amount of free time has resulted in a host of amazing new music being written, both from artists familiar with the label and people new on our radars. It’s been really refreshing to strip it back and focus on the music, the real cornerstone of any record label, and I think we’re hearing consistently better music than we’ve ever received. What does the 2021 release schedule look like? D: The 2021 release schedule is looking very busy! We work on releases months in advance, giving us time to test the tracks and make sure they’re the best they can be before being released. As mentioned, we have a tonne of music which we can’t wait to drop on the label, including new music from ourselves, our friends, and new people to the label, so 2021 is looking very exciting. As label heads, how would you advise someone that is just now establishing a label? D: I think the most important thing is to have a clear direction.
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We’ve always been very headstrong with where we want the label to go and are trying to ensure that we never compromise on the quality of the music. We always ask ourselves whether we’d play any demos in our sets before we sign them, and if the answer is no, then the song isn’t a good fit. It’s impossible to make others believe in the music you’re putting out if you don’t believe in it yourselves. What are the label’s most memorable milestones and what does the future hold for Smash The House? D: After more than 10 years we have so many incredible moments. From performing the official Tomorrowland anthem on the mainstage for the first time to host our Smash The house, and later Generation Smash, arenas at the festival. Then taking the brand to other festivals like TomorrowWorld in US and Creamfields in the UK. It’s been a crazy journey and we’re still pushing forward. We recently hit 200+ million streams with our ‘Instagram’ single, that featured David Guetta, Afro Bros, Daddy Yankee, Natti Natasha and us, which is a double platinum single now. Another previous single through the label with David Guetta, ‘Complicated’, is also double platinum. More recently we’ve put out singles like the collaboration with Regard on ‘Say My Name’, which has over 43 million streams, and then there was our 2020 single ‘Do It’ with Mexican influencer Kimberley Loaiza and Azteck, which blew up on TikTok with over 40million TikTok views in the first 24 hours and then has surpassed 235 million TikTok views and over 50 million total streams. Last year we also launch our The Smash Universe agency. This was a particular dream of my mine for some time and following the launch of Smash the House esports organization, it felt the most nature thing to do. The Smash Universe is an agency for music, gaming and lifestyle. The focus is content creators, gamers and lifestyle influencers and providing management and creative services and marketing concepts. We launched the agency with Nick Depauw, our head of SMASH esports and Miranda Huybers, a gaming industry veteran who was part of Activision’s “Call of Duty” team and our manager Nick Royaards manager of Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Nick Depauw. From the label side, Perry van de Mosselaar and Dwayne Megens are also part of the venture. We are a long way from finishing the building of Smash The House into the kind of platform we want it to be not just our music but the music of the artists we want to sign on the label. We are launching several new sub-labels in the near future, have plans to expand our touring events once events resume and of course there is our Smash Universe agency which has some very special projects to announce soon. Bigger and more exciting things are to come from the Smash family, watch this space!
smashthehouse.com
MNPV
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ON e h t
RISE MISS FIYA//PRODUCER//BEATMAKER
By Shon Murdock
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What cities and studios do you work out of mostly? MISS FIYA: New York, South Jersey and Philly, my personal studio or Matic Werks, 808 Studios. Are you working on anything you would like to tell us about? MISS FIYA: I’m working on a few projects including MISS FIYA MAKES BEATS: The Beat Tape Vol. 1, Block Exchange films “Miss Education “ and several other mixed tapes including Lavell Evans, Rubberband Sosh, Head Ice, Patexx and others. What is your favorite piece of gear or software in the lab for banging out hits? MISS FIYA: I definitely love rocking out on my midi controller MPD 32 in FL Studio. I also use M-Audio Axiom Pro 49 Midi Keyboard Controller. Two of my favorite VSTs are Serum and Arcade by Output. I also use Drum Lords !!!!
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Who were your musical influences growing up? MISS FIYA: My mom is from Jamaica so I grew up listening to alot of reggae. My dad is African American, so I was able to enjoy R&B and disco as well. And as I got older I started to love the music of my generation. I have mixed influence when it comes to music growing up. Dennis Brown, Barrington Levy, Slick Rick, Anita Baker, Marvin Gay, Stevie Wonder, Four Tops, LeAnn Rimes, Prince, Missy Elliot, The Neptunes, Mobb Deep, Easy Mo Bee, John Legend, Kanye. Too many to mention. When I think of good music my heart starts there. How important are a good pair of headphones when making new music? MISS FIYA: A good pair of professional studio monitors is a definite 10 on a scale of 1 to 10. I recommend budget friendly pro studio monitors like the KRK Rokits or Yamaha’s HS series monitors as standard monitors to have, a lot of studios have them, I do.
MISS FIYA: My first pair of monitors I ever had was the M-Audio BX5s, they were decent too. Headphones are important for listening enjoyment after a record is done, but it’s not my preference to make beats on, or mix on headphones due to ear fatigue. But, I do own a few pairs of Audio Technica and Beats by Dre headphones for my personal enjoyment just to listen to my beats. Are there any obstacles being a woman producer/beat maker? MISS FIYA: Nope. My advice is to learn how to protect your music. Set your goals. Network. Stay consistent. Don’t be afraid to put your music out there. Everyone isn’t going to feel your vibe but
thats not the end for you. Find your audience. There’s opportunities for success on every level everywhere. Have fun. Who would be your dream collaboration? MISS FIYA: T-Pain What are your social media handles and where can we find your Beats? MISS FIYA: Missfiya.com Instagram @MissFiya Facebook @officialMissfiya
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S
ometimes in life you’ve got to experience something first-hand in order to effectively relate to it, and that goes for both the good and
the not-so. German DJ/producer Dennis Sheperd embarked on his third album from what he describes as “a very dark place.” That place wasn’t March 2020 as might be imagined, but a year and then some earlier. Under his then-circumstances, following up 2015’s “Fight Your Fears” looked like a daunting task, but on commencement, Dennis discovered something unexpected in its process. The more personal an aspect he channeled into it, the more cathartic if became. Moreover even, the more honest he was with the album, the more its process rewarded and ultimately revitalized him. It was something that ended with him giving it the telling-title “Find The Sunrise.” Beatselector grabbed some post-release time to talk music, method and no small degree of mental health with Dennis.
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SUN
LOOKING FOR S
NSHINE
SOME 2021
WITH DENNIS SHEPERD By Tim Stark
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Thanks for finding the time for us Dennis. How’s your world looking at the frontend of 2021?
vocal so much, I just had to release it as part of this album. The decision that it would even give the album its title only came later.”
Dennis: “Very good so far! Keeping busy with producing new music and helping my students become better producers. Apart from that, I am probably the fittest I have ever been. Started working with a personal trainer to reach some of my fitness goals and been eating quite healthy as well!”
And the last?
Early days, we know, but how does it feel to have the album out and what’s the reaction been like so far?
Some of the track titles (“When Our Worlds Collide,” “When I’m Alone,” “Miss You,” “Losing My Mind,” etc) appear quite descriptive. How much truth is there in that?
Dennis: “Absolutely phenomenal! People seem to really love it and can very much relate to the lyrics. It feels good to finally have something out that you have worked towards for so long.” The album is about as personal as they come. Was this something you intended going into its production? Dennis: “No, not really. But since this was the first time that I was involved in songwriting respecting writing lyrics, it had to be way more personal than the albums before. With songwriting you need to tell a story and this story can be best told when it is about something you have already experienced in the past.” How would you best depict the nature of the issues you were wrestling with in 2019? Dennis: “Various issues and life events. The last couple of months and 1-2 years have really been about self-discovery, self-love and living life to its fullest. I have learned a lot and grew very much as a person. Also, thanks to some amazing friends I have the honor to surround myself with.” What was the first track you wrote for it? Dennis: “The first track I wrote for it was funnily enough ‘Find The Sunrise’, haha! Back then it was not intended to actually even be a Dennis Sheperd as it’s quite a different style than what I usually release. But since I loved the track, lyrics,
Dennis: “The last one was ‘Imagination’, a track that I wrote with Katty Heath when she visited me for the ‘Losing My Mind’ video shoot. The track was written and produced in about 3 days and recorded at Renewsound in Sofia.”
Dennis: “Haha, some sound worse than what the meaning or inspiration behind them was. ‘Miss You’ for example is dedicated to my nephew who I hadn’t seen for quite a while due to the pandemic. ‘Losing My Mind’ on the other hand was written in a situation when I didn’t know what to do and what was right and wrong… So I was literally losing my mind.” Was there a stop along the album’s way that you thought (or maybe now recognize) as being a positive turning point for you mentally or from a psychological standpoint? Dennis: “Dealing with life events of all sorts is never one sided. You can always learn from something and good doesn’t exist without bad and positive doesn’t exist without negative. From that point of view, the album has always just been a medium to express myself through various ups and downs.” The album features vocal elements pretty much from start to finish – was that a conscious decision going into it? Dennis: “Yes, I am a vocal lover. My other two albums also featured a lot of vocals. It’s just what I love to do.” From your perspective what was the darkest point on the album and do you think “Find The Sunrise”’s title track is the lightest? Beatselector Magazine | February 2021 | 45
“
IF YOU ARE IN DARK PLACE RIGHT NOW, BE PATIENT. PLEASE REACH OUT TO YOUR F Dennis: “I think that ‘Losing My Mind’ was probably the craziest phase. The lightest point was probably the production of ‘Playing With Fire’. I was in a great headspace and the production didn’t take long but it seems like this is definitely so far a fan favorite.”
Dennis: “Yes, I’m all for pushing myself! You can only grow when you keep on working on yourself. I always try being a better person and try to learn as much as possible as life continues. It’s also about being open to different ways of looking at the world.”
You first confronted aspects of mental health through your last album – 2015’s “Fight Your Fears,” but that’s a theme that’s also interwoven (through tracks like “Playing With Fire”) into “Find The Sunrise” too isn’t it?
What have you been doing to fight your own fears over the last 12 months?
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Dennis: “I have been climbing regularly (although I am very much afraid of heights), other things include experiences that I have
BRIGHTER DAYS WILL COME AGAIN. FRIENDS AND ASK FOR THEIR HELP IF YOU NEED TO.” always been scared of with which I proceeded. Lastly, I temporarily moved abroad which was great too!” Mental health was already getting to be a prevalent topic in 2019, but became huge in 2020. Is there anything you’d share by way of broad advice in relation to it? Dennis: “Yes: If you are in dark place right now, be patient. Brighter days will come again. Please reach out to your friends and ask for their help if you need to.”
Is there anything else you’d like to say to our readership about the album? Dennis: “I hope you are enjoying the album as much as I did creating it! I am quite responsive on social media, so if you would like to pass me some feedback, leave it there. I will for sure see it.” Thanks for talking to us Dennis – all the best for the album and the rest of 2021.
MNPV Beatselector Magazine | February 2021 | 47
NEW RELEASE SIDEBAR By Tim Stark
A fair amount is made in music’s realm of “the personal album.” In truth though all artist albums are inherently personal - the only distinction being to what degree. By his own acknowledgement, Dennis wrote his third longform predominantly for fans, but also - in part – for himself. Starting the year 2019 in what he described as “a very dark place,” he utilized “Find The Sunrise”’s process as a cathartic tool of articulation, and one with which to face a personal demon or two. As he channelled his experiences into it, striking a reflective balance between the-then-and-the-now became pivotal to its composition. Over the album’s passage both life’s lifts & dips are explored, always beautifully, regularly with hearton-sleeve honesty and with an eloquence unmistakably born of intelligent music making. Some artists rely solely on instruments to carry their
message, whilst others mix the vocal with the vocal-free. Dennis though sees the power of voice and – even more critically – lyric as the surest way to express an album’s message. To that end pretty much every one of its fifteen strong tracks features - in one form or another – a vocal aspect. To achieve that dimension he marshalled an extraordinary assembly of singers, songwriters and collaborators. Katty Heath, Eric Lumiere, Joston, Sarah Russell, Chloe Kay, EKE and Sean Ryan are just some of those that comprise its supremely talented ensemble cast. While the songs’ lyrics delve profoundly into their subject matters, often merely a glance at their titles is enough to draw insight. “When Our Worlds Collide,” “When I’m Alone,” “Miss You,” “Losing My Mind’” and others address a range of interrelated themes with which Dennis identifies. From isolation, disconnection, separation and forfeiture of relationship, they are ones many will also find familiar. Contrastingly other tracks (“I Can Feel,” “Imagination” & “We Are One” to name but three) musically reflect Dennis’ current end-of-the-tunnel, brighterdays perspective. Tonally, it probably telegraphs much that he chose “Find The Sunrise”
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to front-end the album - the Katty Heath-sung title track a radiantly hopeful beacon to the emotionally at sea. While the album is clear of theme, is also contains tracks whose implications are more opaque and open to interpretation. “Playing With Fire” and (its thematic brother) “Burning Flame” Dennis clarifies were inspired by some 2020 conquering of fears (not least his acute vertigo). “Hamsa”’s looping vocal chant, the anthemic floor-roar of “South East Love” and the sax-maxed “Omid” leave their messages deliberately indistinct, allowing listeners to draw their own conclusions. On concluding production of “Find The Sunrise,” Dennis remarked: “This album will always have a very special place in my heart. By producing it, I have not only processed certain developments in my life but have also used lockdown’s time in the best possible way. I believe this album contains some of the finest music I have ever written! I hope fans enjoy it every bit as much as I do.” “Find The Sunrise’”album is available to order/stream here (https://dennissheperd. complete.me/sunrise).
SELECTED DISCOGRAPHY Beatselector Magazine | February 2021 | 49
Bad Trips, Nightmares & Paint THE ART OF LUIS FERNANDO Luis Fernando is a creative soul that has produced some of Techno’s most intriguing and cutting-edge music. His latest EP offering, “Cyberterrorism Will Unite Us” (Morpheus Black), is as dark and intense as the title suggests. Featuring three dense, thudding techno blasts that reference the grim video game The Last of Us, the very grim book and movie Gone Girl, and the strange (and potentially grim, given his understanding of the plot synopsis) Neon Genesis Evangelion. The following pages reveal a different side and creative outlet for Luis, painting. Visually striking and thought-provoking... they are indeed. Complimenting the display of just a few of his works, Luis also graciously shares his time in a Q&A discussing his influences, beginnings, and inspirations in creating his masterful and thought provoking pieces.
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When did you start painting and what has inspired you to share your work with the world?
Are your paintings based on personal experience and feelings? Please explain.
Luis: I started a year ago, at the beginning of the pandemic, during isolation. I isolated myself from everything and everyone, friends and lifestyle. I needed a moment alone. it is not being easy, but I think it is necessary. Throughout this process, I built a studio in the side of my recording studio. I started to paint as a way to relax during recordings sessions. Little by little I started to publish some paintings, without great fanfare and pretenses. I just started posting.
Luis: Many images are inspired by dreams I had, bad trips and etc. I have many nightmares, I wake up in the middle of the night and spend hours reflecting on it. I have a cynical view of the world and I believe this is well reflected in the paintings. so they are from personal experience.
What are the messages behind the work and how do you think the viewers will interpret the visual imagery? Luis: Just like in music, just like in music, I try to pass on my fears, afflictions and anger. All my work (music and paintings) revolves around paranoia, the grotesque and provocative. I always used art to expel all those feelings that torment me. I keep the good things for myself, because I don’t feel the need to throw up.
THE BOY
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When creating your pieces, what music, if any, is playing in your studio? Luis: Yes always. I don’t have a specific playlist, but always instrumental music, as I don’t get distracted by paying attention to vocals, lyrics and etc. I usually listen to IDM, ambient music, glitch / abstract, classical and jazz. What mediums/materials do you prefer to work with and why? Luis: Basically acrylic on canvas and on wood. sometimes I use oil-based paints, but I prefer to use acrylic paints on canvas.
THE SKULL
PARALISIA DO SONO Beatselector Magazine | February 2021 | 53
ABSTRAKT#2 Typically, how long does it take for you to complete a piece? Luis: I have been producing approximately one a day, sometimes two. I have about thirty paintings. Who are the artists that influence you and how did they inspire you to create your own art? Luis: I believe that my main influences are Francis Bacon, Gerhard Richter, Basquiat and Pollock. are definitely my heroes. but I get very tasteless in cinema when I’m painting - David Lynch, Tarkovski, Kubrick and others. but if I have to quote just one name, I’ll quote Francis Bacon.! Is there a commonality between your paintings and the music you create?
Luis: Yes, one thing completes the other. I literally work with both at the same time during the day. as the two studios are in the same place, I take turns between the two activities throughout the day. It is impossible for the two things not to absorb each other. Are you planning any exhibitions to showcase your work? Luis: At this moment no. Are your paintings available for purchase and where can purchases be made? Luis: Yes, they are available for sale at and some are have been sold. The money will go to suicide prevention institutions and psychiatric institutions.
For purchases and commissions click here. 54 | Beatselector Magazine |February 2021
THE PATRIOT
DRIVING IN THE RAIN
HEATH LEDGER
NÉBULA Beatselector Magazine | February 2021 | 55
REVIEWS
ALBUMS
{
Indispensable Essential Good Fair Poor
}
GUEDRA GUEDRA VEXILLOLOGY ON THE CORNER RECORDS Here’s a bit of back story to prime and hip you to you to Guedra Guedra and his great new album. Vexillology is the study of the history, symbolism and usage of flags or, by extension, any interest in flags in general. Referring as much to Sub-Saharan as to North African cultures, Guedra Guedra presents a synthesis of his pan-African appreciation and a full immersion into the traditional rhythms of these lands, especially within the Berber culture which is found in countries such as his home
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of Morocco, and across Tunisia, Algeria, Libya, Northern Mali, Northern Niger and beyond. The body of work is a complete celebration of cultural roots and future bass, bubbling in hotbeds of the global underground. Guedra Guedra is synonymously known for his ability to explore tribal rhythms and instruments of the past, as well as dancefloor innovations from contemporary underground scenes. For “Vexillology,” and in true Guedra Guedra style,
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REVIEWS ALBUMS a myriad of immersive recording techniques were applied. The album is built upon a multitude of field recordings capturing live and ‘in the moment’ cultural happenings, encountered in everyday life, at tribal festivities and also on his travels. Referring as much to Sub-Saharan as to North African cultures, Guedra Guedra presents a synthesis of his pan-African appreciation and a full immersion into the traditional rhythms of these lands, especially within the Berber culture which is found in countries such as his home of Morocco, and across Tunisia, Algeria, Libya, Northern Mali, Northern Niger and beyond. The body of work is a complete celebration of cultural roots and future bass, bubbling in hotbeds of the global underground. “When you use a studio to record, you won’t find the real emotion that you would in a natural environment or situation. Tribal music from Africa is a social practice, it must be played in a certain place, in a certain special moment and in the right environment, it’s not something that can be ‘recreated’ in a studio. So for me capturing these moments when they are actually happening is so important, because that’s the only way you can encapsulate the real rhythm of their practice.”— Guedra Guedra “Archetype,” the first single released from “Vexillology,” dives straight into the traditional musicality of Guedra Guedra, the track is a reflection on the artistic form of dance being at the core of African cultural expression.
singing and group chanting, as well as the energetic “Aura” which was formed on the Zayan tribe cultural practice of “Ahidous,” where a circle of men and women sing, play bendir (wooden-framed drum of North Africa) and recite poems, in a repetition to create a collective trance and temporary utopia as new participants join. With tribal consciousness being at the heart of “Vexillology,” Guedra Guedra uses traditional and ancient instruments throughout the body of work, most importantly that of voice, dance and clapping. Tracks which hone in on this concept include the celebratory and dubstep infused “Stampede Step,” the warming and welcoming tribal sounds of Cercococcyx and also “40’ Feet,“ which layers the sound of traditional North African flute with clapping and soothing jazz undertones. ”Vexillology” is an open invitation into the universe of Guedra Guedra, which is characterised by relentless, euphoric, high-energy, genre-defying, future dance music. As you begin to listen to “Vexillology” it becomes quite clear that the sounds coming through the speakers are unique and exotic. These are songs that most people are not all that familiar with and Guedra Guedra does a masterful job in enlightening the listener. The transition of the tracks are seemless and full of all kinds of electronic wizardry, vocals, percussion, shakers, hand claps, and jazzy piano chords. With “Vexillology” Guedra Guedra stays true to form blending the rhythms of North Africa and contemporary underground dance
Exploring the rest of the album, you will come across
music, giving the world a truly and totally unique collection of songs. Add this gem of an album to your music library right now!
different immersive scenarios, such as opening track “Seven Poets” which features sounds of nature, birds
—Joseph Arthur
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REVIEWS ALBUMS Pierson’s debut solo LP is coming via San Francisco’s Electronic powerhouse imprint Dark Entries Records and Oakland’s Ratskin Records collective. The Oakland-based underground legend, has pushed the boundaries of experimental electronic music with his soul- moving opus “Nerve Bumps; A Queer Divine Dissatisfaction,” aproject that took two long years in the making. Pierson blends hip hop, jazz, John Carpenter-esque arpeggios, trap/anti-trap-influenced percussion. Go to tracks such as “I Slay The Pain” reiterate that although Pierson has to live his life as
DAX PIERSON NERVE BUMPS (A QUEER DIVINE DISSATISFACTION) DARK ENTRIES
Dax Pierson is a musician/producer who has called the East Bay home for 20 years. He was co- founder of the bands Subtle and 13 & God, a touring member of left of center hip-hop group Themselves and an associate of the Anticon collective. In 2005 Subtle encountered black ice in the middle of the country while on tour and flipped over, leaving Dax with a spinal cord injury in the 5th and 6th vertebrae. Since his individual fingers are now paralyzed, Dax has switched to using a laptop controlled with iPad apps in order to produce. The last 12 years have been spent exploring the possibilities that technology could offer, often with time-consuming learning curves. His work is currently informed by limitations, college radio segues, hip-hop, ‘90s post-rock, odd time signatures, new techno, ambient drones, bobbing head beats and sentimentality.
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a quadriplegic, this does not define him as an artist or as a person. The cinematic “For The Angels” plays as a masterclass in heart and body-moving rhythms and undulating synthesizers. Pierson directly confronts the listener on “Snap,” an act of solidarity with the disabled community. Sputtering orchestral swells become encapsulated by splintering shards of Pierson’s voice, evoking his relentless determination to learn new music production methods as well as share his experience with losing certain physical abilities. The album’s closing track, “NTHNG FKS U HRDR THN TM,” is a perfect distillation of the varied emotions explored on the album. For Pierson, music is his lifeblood, both as a creator and a listener. Dax’s guiding mantra throughout this journey has been a quote from choreographer Martha Graham: “No artist is pleased... There is only a queer divine dissatisfaction, a blessed unrest that keeps us marching and makes us more alive than the others.” “Nerve Bumps: A Queer Divine Dissatisfaction” is a beautiful gift and a testament to his dedication and love of music which we all should be thankful to recieve. —Joseph Arthur
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REVIEWS ALBUMS Hyte. Now, 2021 looks set to be a career milestone with the release of his debut album “Truth In My Steps,” out on Eats Everything’s Edible this April. Speaking on the release, Seb discussed how the tracks reflect his musical journey, stating: “All of my experiences are portrayed in this album. From pirate radio to some of the biggest clubs in the world, from raver to DJ. They represent what’s great about both UK club culture and the UK sound. I think the UK is the pulsating heart of electronic music, you only have to look at what’s come from here... hardcore, jungle, garage, dubstep and grime. I wanted to
SEB ZITO TRUTH IN MY STEPS EDIBLE RECORDS
ver since Seb first discovered electronic music in 94, he has evolved right through many elements of the underground scene. He has forged a strong house and techno sound since establishing himself as a resident at Fuse, however echoes of a more raw sound still permeates his music to devastating effect. A true raver himself, he has a natural affinity with the dance floor which he uses intelligently to build a connection and then taking the crowd deep into his own sound and space. His Labels Seven Dials & F&Z gain huge support from the house & techno scene, as have his own releases and remixes on labels such as Fuse, Infuse, Hot Creations, Play It Say It, Saved, Edible, Four Thirty Two, ORIGINS, Rawax & Kaos Theory. A firm favourite at Fuse has seen him play at some of the worlds most renowned clubs and gain residency at Amnesia Ibiza with Fuse &
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incorporate all of these sounds to tell my story... The Truth In My Steps.” The LP encapsulates eleven diverse tracks: “Mission FM”-showcasing his early dance floor days with old skool rave themes; “Got That Vibe”-quick tempos with four-four snare patterns and infectious vocal hooks; “Bad Bwoy”-darker edges with strippedback, breaks and inspired tones; “2am Lover”- a feel-good, vocal-driven cut; “One Finger Skank”rough and raw; “Notting Hill”-a seven-minute cut ripe for the late-night hours; “Come On”robust with punchy kick-hat combos paired against mysterious vocal samples; “What’s This Seb?”- delves into Seb’s grime and dubstep influences; “Charlie’s Gaff” low-slung, minimallaced house cut featuring his signature dubby sound; “Mans From London”- a sizzling piece of drum and bass; “Let It Never Go”- jungle and breakbeat against the two-step sounds of house and garage. “Truth In My Steps” represents an ambitious effort consisting of many different styles of electronic music that deserves to be heard and embraced. Zito delivers the goods in fine fashion. —Catherine Strickland
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REVIEWS
EPs
{
Indispensable Essential Good Fair Poor
}
747
WHILE MY 303 GENTLY WEEPS AQUAREGIA RECORDS Ryan Chan, also known as 747 is based in Vancouver, is known for hypnotic live sets and for displaying an expertise in pad usage creating lush and euphoric soundscapes which creates his acid-techno sound design. “While My 303 Gently Weeps” is the followup to his acclaimed 2017 “Aurora Centralis” EP. This new EP features four distinct tracks that showcase his unmistakably futuristic sound. Opening the release, “you, you” shines with high energy, padded ambiances, soft percussion and sirens. Track two, “Does Anybody Remember Laughter?” prominately features cascading arpeggios and bright
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acid tones. The title track single highlights his signature 303 flair driven forward by a hollow drum kick and a melodic acid techno lead. Closing the EP is “You Missed the Starting Gun” which takes you on a trippy twisting ride. “While My 303 Gently Weeps” is a testament to Chan’s unrelentless vision of acid-techno. Delivering on many fronts: soulfulness and humanity; the music on this new EP gives the listener an enjoyable experience that Chan is known for. Refined, introspective and deeply personal. —Leo Weaver
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REVIEWS EPs
CHRIS GEKÄ HOREKA STICK RECORDINGS
French DJ and producer Chris Gekä that has had several tracks charting on Beatport and Traxsource over the course of his career. Gekä begins 2021 with a banging spit-fire new EP on the Spanish label Stick Recordings. “Horeka” is a two track monster featuring Chris’ original mix and a remix by London based KLINES. The Original Mix features high octane rhythms, booming drum kicks and driving snares complimented with intricate and pristine electronics setting it up as a “peak-time” festival track. London’s KLINES remix reimagines the track featuring darker tones with a touch of industrial flavor. “Horeka” spans almost 15 minutes driving the listener into the darker recesses and realms and IMO, a must have for those that are into cutting-edge techno. Don’t wait to hear it at festivals or in the clubs, get it now!
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—Leo Weaver
REVIEWS EPs
ZOMBIE CATS CHAINS EATBRAIN
Following the recent debut of their eponymous imprint label and the release of their album “Mutation”, the ZOMBIE CATS have returned to the prolific Drum and Bass label EATBRAIN with their four track EP Chains. For the session date, the felines bring in vocalist Sarah Pellicano to open the EP with the title track, “Chains,” which open with a eurphoric feel before the DnB madness kicks in. Up next are the up and coming Slovanian duo Telekinesis joining in for the aural assaulting track “Reconstructed.” Track three, “Mola,” features DJ Safra. This track is absolutely insane. Wrapping up the EP is “Never,” a cornucopia of massive sound, beats and vocals that only the Zombie Cats can create. DnB fans, hold on to your hats and strap in for one hell of ride. “Chains” delivers on all fronts and really showcases the talent and creative imagination that redefines what DnB can be. —Leo Weaver Beatselector Magazine | February 2021 | 67
REVIEWS
SINGLES
{
Indispensable Essential Good Fair Poor
}
SODA STATE
WAY TO GO POTION RECORDS
Soda State are an all-encompassing dance music project and virtual band consisting of Mike “M” Ridley and Sam Tracie. Lyrically, sonically and visually Soda State are on a mission to take you away from the world around you; they want you to surrender yourself to the moment and come with them to “The Soda State Of Mind.” Each time they release a single they open a door to this world and with their first two singles “The Look” and “Midnight” they showed us a glimpse into their utopian paradise. Setting their standard with layered 80’s synths, kicking
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back beats and euphoric vocals epitomising their sound. The duo’s latest single, “Way To Go” references the likes of Daft Punk, Duke Dumont and Cassius among others with it’s sunshiney, bouncy, poppish melody and beats coupled with bright sexy vocals. The track is retro, yet contemporary and allows you to step in to a post pandemic state of mind, which we all need, right? Right. The single release comes equipped with an original video and an alternative “Club Soda” Mix. —Catherine Strickland
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REVIEWS SINGLES
THE BLOODY BEETROOTS ELEVATE MONSTERCAT
The Bloody Beetroots has continuously revolutionized electronic music for more than a decade. Commanding a creative lane all its own, The Bloody Beetroots operates as a multi-layered concept that unfolds like an art project and encompasses original punk-fueled dance music, in-demand remixes, high-end visuals and graphics, fashion, photography and riveting live performances. The Bloody Beetroots along with the trio Teddy Killerz deliver a blazing debut original drum & bass single, “Elevate.” The track blends “smack in the face” techniques from each artist into a highenergy drum & bass cut which will undoubtably appeal to not only The Bloody Beetroots and Teddy Killerz fanbase, but also to all that love and appreciate killer drum and bass music as well. —Leo Weaver
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REVIEWS SINGLES
SAM BLACKY TOO LATE STABBY RECORDS
Samantha Black is a multi talented DJ/ producer, model, and influencer professionally known as Sam Blacky. Sam has unleashed an awesome brand new single “Too Late,” which serves as the world’s official introduction to her underground-influenced house and techno sound. Opening with disco-inspired vocals and a kick drum driven bassline, this track will cause a stir among critics and fans alike. With the duel launch of Sam Blacky’s label, Stabby Records, and her first releases, including this epic track, sets the record straight that 2021 is destined be a breakout year for Sam and her musical brand. What will come next? Well we’ll have to wait and see but there seems to be plenty of surprises and new music in the works this year according to her label and PR team, so keep an eye out for what’s next! —Catherine Strickland Beatselector Magazine | February 2021 | 71