BEATSELECTOR Magazine Issue N° 4

S T. G E R M A I N ' S S T. G E R M A I N L E A D S O F F 2 0 N E W M U S I C R E V I E W S

EVOCATIVE.

IMAGINATIVE.

+

GRiZFLUX PAVILION

P H I L G E R U S  A F F K T  F L AV O R WA S T E R  M A R K E E L E D G E  P L AY M E R E CO R D S

B EATSELECTOR Moving Electronic Music Forward

2016 / Issue N째 4

PUBLISHER

JOSEPH WENSELL CONTRIBUTORS Caitlin Cline Cory Royster Erik L. Richardson Fred Lee Joseph Arthur Karin Haslinger Payton Gerencir Stephanie Hernandez Tyler Quick

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inside

Features ISSUE NUMBER 4 JANUARY 2016

Pg 46 DANIEL WANROOY

The Dutch have given the world a gift by exporting it's influential style of Electronic Dance Music from trailblazing DJs and Producers that include Tiësto, Armin van Buuren, Ferry Corsten, Sander van Dorn, Hardwell, and AfroJack. These are names that are highly successful and known by millions of fans. Daniel Wanrooy is the latest producer extraordinaire and DJ to be added to the elite list of EDM musicians having roots in The Netherlands.

Pg 32 GRiZ

Cover & Table of Contents Photography courtesy of Daniel Wanrooy, GRiZ and Flux Pavilion

Pg 40 FLUX PAVILION

Departments 08 ICYMI

Recent news, upcoming new releases & more from around the web.

18 ARTIST PROFILES

Phil Gerus, AFFKT, Flavor Waster, Markee Ledge

30 LABEL WATCH Play Me Records

56 CD/EP/12" MUSIC REVIEWS

Cory Royster leads off the reviews with St. Germain's latest release St. Germain on Nonesuch Records.

vOPENING NOTES Our 4th issue is full of interesting personalities, some famous, some just breaking through.

Daniel Wanrooy, our Cover Feature artist, has been producing his brand of Trance music for a few years now and we give you insight to the road he has taken to become one of of the industry’s success stories.

For our other feature articles, we give you Flux Pavilion, a well known DNB artist with a relatively new release and GRiZ, a purveyor of what he calls Future Funk. GRiZ, in particular, was a very interesting artist to write about, as he's involved with philanthropy, weed cultivation and producing kick ass funk infused dance music.

We also profile Phil Gerus, a Moscow based DJ with an infinity for Jazz, AFFKT, Markee Ledge, and Flavor Waster, a DC area outfit that is gaining popularity with their unique sound of electronic pop music.

For this issue’s Label Watch, we put the spotlight on L.A.’s Play Me Records led

by DJ Reid Speed.

And finally, Ludovic Navarre aka St. Germain has released his first new LP in 15 years on the Nonesuch label. It kicks off the 20 new releases reviewed inside.

Read on!

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f

&u

We're on

f

u New Music Live Events Artist Profiles Industry News and more...

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facebook.com/beatselectormagazine twitter.com/beatselector Beatselector Magazine | Issue N째 4 | 07

vICYMI

from around the web

The album Tricky presents: Skilled Mechanics is out 22nd January on Tricky’s False Idols imprint. Formed by Tricky after a move to Berlin in 2015, the new album is a collaborative project that allows the producer and vocalist to work with many different artists, while at the same time pushing his unique vocal talents to the forefront. "The name comes from a documentary about espionage," he explains. "There was an ex-C.I.A. agent on this programme

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speaking about assassins who were sent abroad by the US to start revolutions and topple governments. He called them ‘skilled mechanics.’ I thought that was a great name for someone who was a killer basically.

The name was so dark and cynical it just stuck with me.” The most prominent of the collaborators on the new record is DJ Milo, who is not only one of Tricky’s oldest friends, but also the first person he ever recorded with, not to mention his introduction to The Wild Bunch. “I used to practice with Milo round at Daddy G from Massive Attack’s house,” says Tricky. “I can remember we did a cassette. This was the first time I ever released music and this tape went all around Bristol. He would be cutting up a break and I’d rap over it. But me and him went very well together. There was a little bit of magic about it. Milo is on five of the tracks on the Skilled Mechanics album. Some of the tracks I did with him sound like old school hip hopbut not dated – very modern.”

Another major player on the album is Luke Harris, Tricky’sregular tour drummer, though his prescence was almost accidental: “We were on tour recently and the band were soundchecking while I was in the dressing room. I could hear the vocals loud and clear but then my regular singer, Francesca Belmonte walked past the dressing room. I thought, ‘What the fuck?’ So I went out to have a look and there was my drummer filling in for her on vocals because she needed the bathroom. There and then I said to him, ‘Do you know what? On my next project you’re going to be my vocalist…’”

Tricky presents: Skilled Mechanics is out January 22, available everywhere.

MORE RELEASES TO LOOK FOR IN 2016 STEVE ANGELLO JANUARY 22 ST. LUCIA JANUARY 29 KYGO FEBRUARY 12 POLIÇA MARCH 4 UNDERWORLD MARCH 18 ANOHNI TBA JEAN MICHEL JARRE TBA MAJOR LAZER TBA METRIC TBA NINE INCH NAILS TBA GORILLAZ TBA *Release dates subject to change.

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vICYMI

from around the web

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DJ Magazine announced the winners of its Best Of British Awards 2015 covering the UK’s best’ DJs, producers, nightlife and festivals at a star-studded bash at Heaven, London.

Best Producer Nocturnal Sunshine, aka Maya Jane Coles

Among this years winners were Fabio & Grooverider, Fabric, Defected, Carl Cox, Annie Mac, Skepta, The Chemical Brothers, Bicep, Greg Wilson, Slam and Jasper James.

Best Compilation Slam present 'Transmissions: Glasgow'

A counterpoint to the Top 100 DJs poll, which has grown into an international phenomenon, DJ Magazine started the Best Of British Awards a few years back in order to shine a spotlight on the talent on the country's doorstep.

Britain historically has had a conversely huge effect on global culture and music. In electronic music, the UK played a significant part in kick-starting house and techno in the late '80s, while turn-of-the-'90s breakbeat hardcore was unique to these shores.

At the Best Of British (BoB) awards junglist pioneers Fabio & Grooverider were presented with the Outstanding Contribution award for their part in birthing drum & bass, and also gave Greg Wilson the Industry Icon award for his services to disco-inspired dancefloors.

Other winners included Eats Everything (pictured left), Bicep, Nocturnal Sunshine aka Maya Jane Coles, and The Revenge — the cream of young underground UK talent not just doing it in the UK, but some of the most talented artists on the planet right now.

Best Album The Revenge 'Love That Will Not Die' Best MC Skepta

Breakthrough DJ Jasper James Breakthrough Producer Palms Trax Best Tune Bicep ‘Just’ Best Remix Eats Everything feat Tiga vs Audion 'Dancing' Best Radio Show Annie Mac Best DJ Mag Live Stream Carl Cox Best Boutique Festival The Social Best Dance Festival We Are FSTVL Best Club Event Circus Best Large Club Fabric Best Small Club Sub Club Best Live Act Chemical Brothers Breakthrough Label Dixon Avenue Basement Jams Best Label Defected Best DJ Eats Everything Industry Icon Greg Wilson Outstanding Contribution Fabio & Grooverider Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 11

vICYMI

from around the web

A few weeks ago Spotify announced that Kygo had become the fastest artist to hit one billion streams, an acknowledgement to go along with the recognition of being the streaming service's Breakout Artist of 2015. The Norwegian DJ's latest single "Stay" featuring Maty Noyes was released on December 3, 2015 and has been streamed a whopping 22 million times helping with the push to the record of 1 billion streams by any artist on the planet. Additionally, Kygo recently partnered with Apple Music for an commercial advertisement titled "Discover Kygo."

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2006-2016 An Obituary (of sorts)

For 10 years, Pacha was the home of the New York-style

24-plus-hour marathon; where EDM tested its chops and earned its stripes; where stars were born and fans were converted. It gave legendary promoter Rob Fernandez a room to transform, weekend in and weekend out. It cooled you off with nitrogen and heated you up with shower dancers. It was the only reason you went West of 11th Avenue (unless your car got towed).

In January, Pacha New York – lauded as one of the top nightclubs in the world by DJ Mag magazine, and “Best Superclub” at the Club World Awards for 5 years – is closing its doors for good.

“The average nightclub lasts 18 months – we lasted 120,” says Pacha New York’s president, Eddie Dean. “It’s been a wild ride that none of us will ever forget."

6 million fans graced their dance floor for over 12,000 hours. That’s more than 1,500 shows over 500 weeks. Fans have burned close to 10 billion calories over ten years, while our barbacks have ran nearly 10 thousand miles (burning a million calories), carrying over 2 million bottles of alcohol (enough to fill 2 Olympic sized swimming pools!).

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vICYMI

from around the web

On Monday, February 15 , 2016, the Los Angeles Staples Center will be the site for The 58th Annual GRAMMY Awards. It’s been a phénoménal year for EDM, yet the category is still not being properly recognized by the industry. Perhaps 2016 will be the breaktrhough year.

Among the artists up for the The Best Dance/Electronic Album award is Jamie xx (Pictured Right) for his debut solo release Colour on Young Turks Recordings.

Best Dance/Electronic Album Our Love Caribou Merge Records Born In The Echos The Chemical Brothers Astralwerks Caracal Disclosure Capitol Records In Colour Jamie XX Young Turks Recordings Skrillex and Diplo Present Jack Ü Skrillex and Diplo Owsla/Mad Decent/Atlantic

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On December 14, 2015 ODESZA closed out their Return World Tour with a three night, sold out stint at LA’s Shrine Expo Hall, marking it the most succesful EDM tour of 2015.

drumming and electronic drumming. EDM used to mean you’re a guy with a laptop on stage. When we play live against artists in that realm, we do like the energy that EDM creates, but we go about in a different way.”

The duo, Harrison Mills and Clayton Knight, recently spoke to the folks at ELEKTRO Daily and give credit to the tour’s success through “relating more to album-based artists and the singer-songwriter stuff that was around us growing up. And that’s influenced how we approach the shows, by adding a lot of live elements with a guitarist and our own

With so many other artists with heavy tour schedules and the increasing consumption for EDM music and live events, ODESZA has set the bar and the standard on how to put on exciting and innovative shows for the masses.

Catch them in 2016 at a venue near you.

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vON TOUR The Dutch dance titan, Hardwell, announces an eleven-stop North American bus tour that will hit major cities across the United States and Canada, kicking off in February and stretching through March 2016. Fresh off a year that saw the Revealed Recordings founder perform at a record-setting charity concert in Mumbai, release his magnum opus, United We Are, in addition to the highly anticipated remix record to the album, and deliver countless headlining appearances at festivals like EDC Las Vegas, TomorrowWorld, and Ultra Music Festival, Hardwell has continually proven that he is at the top of his game, and he's kicking off the new year with the return of his famed Revealed bus tour.

Building upon the success of his 2013 Revealed Canadian bus tour and 2014 Revealed North American bus tour, the third edition of Hardwell's iconic bus tour promises to be bigger and better than ever, as it looks to solidify the Dutch icon and Revealed Recordings as frontrunners within dance music. Featuring a star-studded trio of Revealed stars in Hardwell, Kill the Buzz, and Thomas Newson, the bus tour will bring Hardwell's signature electro house style to 11 cities across North America like New Orleans, Pittsburgh, Ottawa, and more.

2/25/16 2/26/16 2/27/16 2/28/16 2/29/16 3/01/16 3/02/16 3/03/16 3/04/16 3/05/16 3/06/16

Metropolitan Nightclub New Orleans, LA Tabernacle Atlanta, GA 31st Street Studios Pittsburgh, PA The Bluestone Columbus, OH SoundGarden Hall Philadelphia, PA Shrine Mashantucket, CT Royale Boston, MA Marquee New York, NY F-Shed Syracuse, NY TBA TBA EY Centre Ottawa, ON

Get Tickets at https://www.djhardwell.com/bustour

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vARTIST PROFILE

Written by Joseph Arthur

PHIL GERUS

Phil Gerus digs Jazz. Phil Gerus digs Funk. Phil Gerus digs Soul and R&B. Phil Gerus digs House. Now imagine growing up in Moscow listening to Oscar Peterson, Bill Evans and Keith Jarrett, all legends of Jazz. Studying Classical Piano would be the next natural step for anyone wanting to enter the world of recorded music. That’s exactly what Phil did, although not in Classical or Jazz sense. Instead, Gerus embraced his influences in Jazz and melded it with infectious electronic beats and sound effects, slapping bass lines and groovy disco influenced guitar riffs, creating a sound and style all his own that can be heard on every release he’s put out. Phil appeared on our radar by pure luck and after previewing his latest EP, ‘Nothing Twice’ on the Bastard Jazz label, we were intrigued and had to listen and learn more. Being a fan of “Jazztronica” and listening to many of the genre's albums over the course of 10 years, I found Gerus to be a new voice and deserving of some high praise for his musical vision, composition and technical skills which are aptly demonstrated on the new release. Needless to say, BEATSELECTOR Magazine is not the first media outlet to take notice of Gerus. DJ Magazine, XLR8R, BBC Radio 1 and MixMag have given editorial space to this rising DJ and rightfully so. 2016 will be an active year for Gerus as he releases a new EP on Futureboogie in January or February and an EP titled 'Penciled' on the ManMakeMusic label at a date to be determined. In the meantime, I suggest that you, the reader, check out his previous recordings which can be found on Phonocake, Fuselab, Sonar Kollektiv, ManMakeMusic, Futureboogie, MadTech, Symbols and Bastard Jazz.

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vARTIST PROFILE

Written by Joseph Arthur

AFFKT

Marc Martinez Nadal, known as AFFKT has been described as “a House Music sub-culture game changer, as a son of a thousand sounds, and as a perfectionist.” The Spaniard has been creating his own vision of colorful and sound-scapes since 2008, releasing projects on Suara and Sincopat, the latter a label he heads. His music reflects the influences of his surroundings that inspire him to write and produce Techno music that is “heart-stopping and engaging.“ Drawing on the sounds coming from Kling Kong and Noir Music, the music AFFKT is also being described as “masterpieces of cross-over Electronica” and that is what sets him apart from the rest of the Dance Music pack. His recordings and collaborations range in the dozens and include work featuring Gorge, Tube & Berger, Finnebassen, Dosem and a slew of others.

November 30, 2015 marked the release of "Someone in the Sky", a single with dynamic synth lines, a deep groove and driving beats with vocals from frequent collaborator Sutja Guiterrez.

This new single follows a previous single titled "The Show" which also features Guiterrez's voice and precedes a full-length album coming in 2016. "Someone in the Sky" with the support of Ritchie Hawtin, Felix Da Housecat, Florian Kruse and Nice7 among dozens of other spinners on the circuit, will help build a “buzz” and widen the reach of the groovy dance floor filling single, as well as laying the anticipation for fans of what to expect from the new full-length album.

With the "The Show" and "Someone in the Sky" releases, AFFKT has reached the pinnacle point in his career where he is being recognized for his contributions to the genre, from having paid his dues, perfecting his skills, and honoring the musicians and composers that have influenced him. Pay attention.

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vARTIST PROFILE

Written by Erik L. Richardson

FLAVOR WASTER Flavor Waster is a DC based output that has evolved its sounds as it’s musicians have grown. Both literally in their expanding membership and figuratively by their musical influences and growth as a band. The cornucopia of sounds and experiences one may find in DC can easily blend themselves into something of an amorphous social, political, musical movement and journey. Flavor Waster has this delicacy of detail down pat. The band itself consists of Ryan Burke (synths, percussion), Kevin Hilliard (writing, production, multi-instrumental), Jodi Jones (vocals), Martin MacAlister (drums), and Patrick Taylor (production, writing, keyboards). The driving forces behind the name Flavor Waster and the band are Kevin Hilliard and Patrick Taylor. Patrick, I know personally as a talented director, videographer, and keyboard player who has raised his own professional profile as a director for USPS commercials. Both of whom are very close friends who met while in high school.

The evolution of Flavor Waster began as a trio in the group Caverns. The former Hardcore, electo-pop creation. Taylor’s family is from Guyana. The exposure to the rhythms, tropical currents and musical colors of Soca, Calypso, and Reggaeton were very important in his musical upbringing. With Hilliard being a DMV (DC, Maryland and Virginia) native. The grooves, instrumentation, and bump of Go-Go is strong within him.

Having such a personal and close working relationship. It breeds a sort of familiarity, and trust to the point of blind faith.

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Both men can think alike and for one another when it comes to their production, and general musings on filming or music.

It is a harmonious existence that has driven their music into ambient textures, and tones over the years. They began Caverns while in college working on film scores. As the business of making music burgeoned, the profits of the film industry really began to show fruition. So much so that, Patrick moved to LA to begin his residency there at the USPS, leading to working on the film score for the film “Fishing Without Nets�.

They were able to maintain their creative edge and cerebral connectivity. Already having the brains behind the music. What would become Flavor Waster needed to add a couple of lobes to complete the cypher. They brought with Martin MacAlister into the fold through another producer J. Robbins, who has also has produced a lot for Caverns. They linked up

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up with Jodi Jones via that wonderful tool called the world wide web. They have rereleased their debut album "It’s Always Sunny When You’re Cool" (School of Resentment Recordings) to a great amount of publicity. The album is saturated with a heavy pop influence that weaves a melodic tapestry of tone and space. On the track "Blackest Prius" the reformation and realization of the band becomes clear. The vocals of Jones suspend themselves over the placid advancement of a Calypso style beat. Encapsulated with a synthesized posture, the band gives you more without sacrificing their individuality as separate musicians. But, also displaying the "combiner" (Constructions = Devastator) nature of a fully in-tune band that has been playing together for years. I'm really eager to see them live again, in this current iteration. But, for now I'll tip in on another listen to "It's Always Sunny When You're Cool."

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M/@flvrwstr Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 25

vARTIST PROFILE

Written by Joseph Arthur

MARKEE LEDGE

There is a lot be said for musicians that start out their careers creating in bedrooms, basements and garages. Many have done this and become famous and successful. Markee Ledge is one artist that is on that path. The Glasgow native grew up listening to Manchester’s “Madchester” Rave scene kings The Stone Roses and The Happy Mondays, The Cocteau Twins, Everything But The Girl, Scientist, Lee Scratch Perry and King Tubby, all of whom led him to the realization of what he wanted to do in life—composing electronic music, writing songs, and leading a band.

Early on, the Slam boys were raising the bar for Techno and House music coming out of Glasgow’s Sub Club and this is where and when Markee embraced this new sound and solidified his desire to produce his own sounds in electronic music.

Markee’s next move was to Bristol to witness and take in what was becoming a hot bed of groundbreaking Trip-hop and Drum & Bass music. The seminal bands Massive Attack, Portishead, Tricky and DJs Roni Size and Krust & Die would all play a major influence on the direction he would take with contributing and producing his own music.

Teaming up with first and long-term collaborator Darren Beale, also known as Decoder, via his first label venture Substance they would be part of what is called “The Golden Age” era of Drum & Bass.

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Forming a band was always something Markee wanted to do. In 1999, he realized this goal with the formation of his group Kosheen featuring his musical compositions voiced by singer Sian.

Their very first signing was with the Independent label Moksha releasing 3 Singles that year.

The following year, 2000, Kosheen began writing a full-length album titled “Resist” that would go on to being picked up by BMG Records in 2001.

Kosheen’s immediate success came with their smash hit and crossover single “Hide U” reaching #7 on the U.K. Charts.

When “Resist” was released, it reached #8 on the charts, followed by the album’s Singles “Catch” and “Hungry” pushing the album’s sales to 500,000 units, making it the most successful Drum & Bass album at that time.

Four more albums would follow for the band before taking a break in 2011.

During the hiatus, Markee continued writing and working with new producers and vocalists that eventually led to a new solo release, titled "Elevate."

“Elevate” is very much in the Kosheen vein, but the key difference is that the album has a more cutting edge feel derived from the current sounds coming from the U.K.’s underground music scene as influenced by Rinse FM’s DJ Youngsta.

The new full length album features singers Alys Be, Susie Ledge, Jodie Elms and guest producers Seven, Leon Switch, and dubspeeka.

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Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 29

vLABEL WATCH

Written by Cory Royster

Photography courtesy of Reid Margolis/Play Me Records

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You know, it’s difficult to be a fan of EDM and not know DJ Reid Speed and her label Play Me Records. The Los Angeles based digital record label has become an industry darling when it comes to the American dubstep and fidget house genres.

DJ Reid Speed, born Reid Margolis, started out in New York’s legendary Breakbeat Science Store working the counter while in college at School of Visual Arts. Her love of drum and bass music always there, but two step and speed garage sounds inspired Margolis to start spinning full-time.

After signing to Breakbeat Science’s label, Reid garnered quite a bit of recognition and critical acclaim after her 2001 release “Resonance.”

The success from her 2003 followup “Life After Dark” allowed for touring opportunities around the world and with artists like Ming and FS. It was while she was on tour with Ming and FS that was was able to fine tune and develop her signature genre breaking sound that earned her the respect of a premiere DJ. Reid’s innovative sound and eclectic ear would serve her well in her next endeavor.

After almost a decade of making a name for herself as “old school” drum and bass spinner in the very competitive New York DJ scene, Reid was presented with an opportunity to run her own record label.

Shortly after the release of 2009’s "Under The Influence," Play Me was founded alongside her husband Alex Ronsson. Since then, the label has gone on to remarkable success such as being voted Best Dubstep Label of 2010 by Beatport, and Best Branded Label of 2012 on Symphonic Distribution. Play Me Records has also released several chart toppers or top 10 mainstays in the dubstep music charts.

Play Me Records claim to fame is offering impeccably produced full frequency

range dance music. The label offers an exhibition of entries Dubstep, Drumstep, Drum & Bass, Glitch Hop, Electro House, Moombahton, and Trap genres. They also feature a rather impressive roster of artists featuring: Figure J. Rabbit, Dillon Francis, Singularity, Dirt Monkey, Riot, Mantis, SirensCeol, Donkong, Bro Safari, MUST DIE, Spag Heddy Nostalgia, ORFAZ and 2010’s Best New Artist, Bare just to name a few. The success of Play Me promped Reid and Ronsson to start up a sub label Play Me Too Records. With over 250 artists on board and eagerness to find new and exciting artists, Play Me remains poised to not only compete with the big name record labels in the currently offered genres, but to also excel and pioneer any new ones that arise.

Year Established 2009

Home Base Los Angeles, CA Website playmeofficial.com Facebook playmerecords Twitter @playmerecords Soundcloud playmerecords Youtube playmerecords Instagram playmerecords Spotify playmerecords Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 31

L Funky

aying down that

Phat

Beat Written by Joseph Arthur

Photography courtesy of GRiZ

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It

was during the

Summer of 2015 when I was turned on to Grant Kwiecinski known as GRiZ from a colleague. At the time, I was not familiar with the artist, but all that changed once I started following his activities via Facebook and other social media outlets. He has sold out headlining dates in New York, Chicago, L.A., Philadelphia, Nashville, Red Rocks, and

naturally,

of Detroit.

his

hometown

In 2015 he released

six singles, a smashing new full length album and presented his Annual 12 Days of GRiZmas event



raising tens of thousands of dollars benefiting

numerous

charities.

Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 33

His story begins in Southfield, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit.

Picking up the Saxophone and Piano while in elementary school and listening to the big horn sounds of Funk music laid the foundations of an obvious career path choice.

Upon graduating from high school, GRiZ moved on to pursuing higher education at Michigan State University, This is the time in his life when he decided to drop out of college and to make music full time. Staying local, he booked his earliest gigs at Frat parties and East Lansing’s venues. Then came ‘End of the World Party’, his very first album, that he offered to anyone that would listen, for free. The 2011 release would catch the ears of Bassnectar, Pretty Lights, Gramatik and Big Gigantic leading to supportive act invites and essentially launching his career as a headliner in his own right.

In a short 4 years, GRiZ would go from playing in front small crowds in basements to massive club venues and major events spreading his infectious music and energetic stage presence to dance music maniacs all over the world. After the 'End of the World Party' album came 'Mad Liberation' (2012) and 'Rebel Era' (2013). Both of these albums would serve as precurser to the acclaimed 2015 release of 'Say It Loud.' His All Good Records label headquartered in Detroit, is the home of like minded future funksters The Floozies, Manic Focus, The Geek x VRV, Muzzy Bear, Freddy Todd and SunSquabi all of which draw musical insperation from the Soul sounds of Motown, New Disco, and Electronica. Complimenting his musical skill set is his good business sense and ability in building his brand and giving back to his community. He has amassed a very large following on social media by leading a highly successful ‘street team’ named Liberators, raising awareness for upcoming shows, promoting and spreading his music, and working with many charitable organizations. Additionally, his extention GRiZFam, allows fans to connect with each other through music, photos and art under the mantra Show Love, Spread Love. Speaking of Show Love, Spread Love,



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Photography courtesy of GRiZ

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Photography courtesy of GRiZ

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GRiZ leads and lives it. In Detroit, like many school districts across the United States, the city has had Music Education programs cut or removed from the curriculum.For those of us in the Arts, we’ve been advocating for the importance of Music and the Arts by supporting national programs like VH1’s Save the Music and others.

Two years ago, GRiZ established the “12 Days of GriZMAS.” This annual event has raised over $30,000 benefiting the charity Little Kids Rock, a notfor-profit organization that provides under-privileged children free musical instruments and instruction. For 12 Days in December, GRiZ and his team give back to Detroit's communities by hitting the streets collecting coats for the homeless and providing animal shelters with supplies.

During the holiday season, the annual event is also a gathering for Industry Panels and free shows including the benefit warehouse concert “Night Before GRiZMAS.” Many believe Karma is real, I for one believe as well. With all the good works that GRiZ has given through his music and philanthropy, Karma came back around in his direction and in 2015 The City of Detroit acknowledged and recognized GRiZ and his label All Good Records with their “Spirit of Detroit” award.

A side project of GRiZ that is worth mentioning is his partnership with Native Roots Apothecary, a Colorado based dispensary of marijuana.

GRiZ makes no bones regarding his love of weed, so much so that he's developed his own strain—GRiz Kush, entered High Time's Magazine coveted 2015 Cannibis Cup competition and placed 2nd in the "People's Choice Flower's" category. Speaking with Billboard Magazine about his High Times experience, he's asked what's next. His reply, "GRiZ Kush 2.0 and gettiing some to Barack Obama."

I would love to hang out with GRiZ and enjoy some of his namesake doobage. I'm pretty sure it would be a good time. In the meantime, I can only hope to have an opportunity to catch a show when he comes back around to the East Coast. I encourage you to do the same.



Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 37

Follow C/fluxpavilion M/@fluxpav

Photography courtesy of GRiZ

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vilion

LATEST ALBUM

SIDEBAR

Say It Loud, the 2015 release from GRiZ is a

deliciously funky album full of sax, trumpets, and a Children’s Choir. The album opens with the track ‘The Anthem’ and it features groovy guitars and the voices of children building into an awesome bridge and chorus featuring GRiZ’s tasty sax lines, a catchy sing along chorus and a burning guitar lick that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The goal for the album, according to GRiZ, was to write better and to write contemporary funks songs, producing an album that kind of has the new James Brown singing on it, all with a touch of sounds coming from Muscle Shoals. Goal achieved! While conceptualizing the vision of 'Say It Loud,' GRiZ traveled the U.S recording a selection of sounds and then secluded himself in a setting outside the trappings of Detroit with Exmag that eventually lead him to Daptone Records’ studio, collaborating with Antibalas. 'Say It Loud' features 11 songs of funk infused dance music that will get your ass shaking no matter where you are, in clubs, at festivals, in the kitchen, or the bedroom! Get it!

Follow C/therealGRiZ M/@mynameisGRiZ

mynameisgriz.com Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 39

FLUX PAVILION FLEXING

THE DUBSTEP SOUND Written by Joseph Arthur

3

U.S. tours as a headliner including two sold out shows at Red Rocks, two tours in the U.K., DJ sets at Glastonbury, Reading, Coachella and EDC Las Vegas, a brilliant new album, and music

licensed for major feature films, all make this 26 year old Singer-songwriter and multi- faceted traditional & digital instrumentalist an important composer and creative force.

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Photography by Claire Curtis

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"I never went to clubs because I didn’t feel accepted into that scene; it felt too showy, too wellgroomed. Then I saw Rusko play at Fabric and it changed my perception of everything. He was jumping around wearing a big cardboard hat shaped like a bird playing the most outrageous music I had ever heard. l loved it."

—Flux Pavilion Photography courtesy of Flux Pavilion

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Most EDM fans are familiar with the pioneers and legends of the Dubstep genre Ntype, Skream and Rusko and today’s leading acts Skrillex, Bassnector, Dillon Francis, Basement Jaxx, Krewella, Steve Aoki, Datsik, Infected Mushroom and dozens of other perfomers making daily headlines.

Joshua Steele, aka Flux Pavilion has accomplished major achievements over the course of 8 years. The talented musician, producer, and label owner has firmly positioned himself as a leading creative in the global Dusbtep scene with an impressive output of some “really good music.” With 6 EPs, 14 Singles and Remixes for Doctor P., Jamiroquai, M.I.A., Nero, Skrillex, and Dillon Francis and most recently, a 13 track LP titled ‘Tesla’ released on his label Circus Records in September 2015, it is obvious the future is his to behold and to further put his thumb print on Dance Music across all genres.

Growing up in the United Kingdom, Flux's earliest musical influences were the Beatles, David Bowie and Frank Zappa, but it was after being turned on to the music of The Prodigy and The Chemical Brothers he found his true calling to produce and release his own heavy hitting projects beginning with Hiphop instrumentals to Drum & Bass leading the way to having his smash hit ‘I Can’t Stop’ sampled by Producer Shama “Sak Pase” Joseph for the track ‘Who Gon Stop Me’ from Kanye West and Jay-Z’s collaborative album ‘Watch The Throne.’ You have probably also heard the track ‘I Can’t Stop’ as it was used and featured in the 2012 ‘SSX’ Video Game, the 2013 film ‘The Great Gatsby’ and in the trailer for Ron Howard’s 2013 film ‘Rush.’

Crossing boundaries and getting attention outside the EDM realm is what’s happening now for Flux. Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Christina Aguilara have all put him on their radar. Many have watched Disney’s Star Wars Rebels animated series, especially with the hype of the franchises latest feature film installment hitting theaters across the globe. To bring awareness to the animated series, Disney recuited Flux to remix the series theme song as a marketing ploy to attract viewership. So when you catch an episode, you’ll be getting a taste of Flux’s musical skills.

In the year of 2009, Flux, along with his childhood friend Doctor P, Drum’n’Bass pioneer DJ Swane-e and UB40’s Earl Falconer jumped in to the Recording Label game launching Circus Records. To date, the label hosts a roster of 27 internationally known and successful DJs including Steve Aoki, Method Man, FuntCase, Dillon Francis and Datsik.

2016 should be an exciting year for Flux Pavilion. Plans for more tours and more music are what we’re looking forward to.

Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 43

Photography by Claire Curtis

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LATEST ALBUM

SIDEBAR

On September 4, 2015 Circus Records released Flux Pavilion's first full length album titled 'Tesla.' Is this record the "Swan Song" from the rising dubstep star? Well, we think so, so far. For the album, Flux recuited a select few Singer-Songwriters and performers to be a part of his debut. These include Soulsonic Force, yes, that Soulsonic Force, the crew of the ground breaking Hip-hop ensemble created by Afrika Bambaataa, Andrea Martin who has penned #1 hits for En Vogue and SWV, Matthew Koma who's worked with Hardwell, Tiësto and Zedd, Tom Cane, BullySongs, Mad Decent's Riff Raff and Doctor P.— Flux's longtime friend and label mate. 'Tesla' features 13 tracks of grinding noise ("it’s a good thing") with deep rhyhtmic drum'n'bass beats and powerful vocal deliveries. Stand out tracks are 'We Are The Creators' featuring Soul Sonic Force, 'International Anthem'—a ragga rager with vocals from Doctor P, 'Feels Good' —a disco tinged, dance floor track with Tom Cane, 'Who Wants To Rock' featuring the rhyming stylings of RiffRaff, and the closer 'Ironheart' featuring BullySongs. Check it out!

Follow C/fluxpavilion M/@fluxpavilion

fluxpavilion.com Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 45

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HEIS

EVOCATIVE. IMAGINATIVE.

Written by

Joseph Arthur

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Photography courtesy of Daniel Wanrooy

The Dutch have given the world a gift by exporting it's influential style of Electronic Dance Music from trailblazing DJs and Producers that include Tiësto, Armin van Buuren, Ferry Corsten, Sander van Dorn, Hardwell, and AfroJack. These are names that are highly successful and known by millions of fans. Daniel Wanrooy is the latest producer extraordinaire and DJ to be added to the elite list of EDM musicians having roots in The Netherlands.

Dordrecht [pronounced dordrext] is a city and municipality in the western region of The Netherlands. Surrounded by scenic beauty and bordered by 5 rivers, this is the place Daniel Wanrooy calls home and where experimentation with the first Tracker programs leading to a trial and error process and where Daniel’s musical adventure began. Instant recognition came byway of his duo Progression & Odyssee then as a solo artist. Infusing the sub-genres of EDM to create his own sound, which is evocative and imaginative, resulted in making an influential impression on his contemporaries to include his musical productions on their playlists. These include superstars over the last 10 years.

Shortly after taking the path of becoming a solo artist/producer and releasing his debut single, fellow Dutchman Tiësto discovered and recognized Daniel had musical talents that needed to be unleashed to the world. What better way to do that than inviting Daniel as an supportive act on his global tour. That opportunity formed a lasting friendship between the two that still continues today. Over the years Tiësto has included 5 of Daniel’s songs on his wildly successful “In Search of Sunrise” series and Daniel has released several projects on Tiësto’s Black Hole Recordings.

His first full-length album “Different Day, Different Light” received high praise from the press and was credited as “two hours of fascinating music” by MTV, but, it was his second album “Slice of Life” that pushed him in to the limelight.

In the United States, the television talent show American Idol enjoyed a huge viewership. At the conclusion of the show’s sixth season, a break beat artist by the name of Blake Lewis took the Runner-up award. Daniel saw an opportunity and teamed up with the Pop star to produce and collaborate on the album’s hit single and smashing video “Stay in the Moment.” Buzz about Daniel was building.

While taking the “Slice of Life” album on tour to Malaysia, he was given the opportunity to be interviewed on Malaysian TV’s “Hello on 2” morning program allowing him to introduce himself and his music to the tune of 5 million viewers.

Next came the remix requests from high-profile, mega-producing hit makers including Deadmau5, The Crystal Method, W&W and dozens more followed by signings with Spinnin’ Records, Mixmash, Armada Records, EMI, and Magik Musik.

What makes these events in his life amazing is how quickly he blew up with popularity and caught the attention of essentially all the major players in the EDM industry.

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Photography courtesy of Daniel Wanrooy

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Photography courtesy of Daniel Wanrooy

Now, let’s explore his music. Daniel produces music has been categorically deemed as Progressive, Progressive Trance and House. I’ve spent hours listening to his music and come away with the same conclusion, here’s a talent to behold and embrace. His songs, whether in a solo setting or with collaborators, exhibit high quality and the sound design is mind boggling, considering how he’s mastered his tools on a ‘Trial and Error’ method as mentioned in the beginning of this article.

He is creating sonic orchestrations and beats that are multi-layered with beautiful

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sound and complex with dance hooks that are extremely infectious. It’s difficult to recommend any one release over another simply for the reason that each of his singles, LPs, EPs, remix collaborations, etc… deserve to be discovered and appreciated by you.

Nowadays, Daniel has realized a new passion in his life in music and that is performing live. As his popularity has grown, so have his opportunities to present his music to the world. He has worked on all the continents, most notably in his homeland—Amsterdam's famous Heiniken Hall and FFWD Dance Parade, at venues and

In addition to his musical talents, Daniel has a good eye for snapping photos, landscapes and cityscapes and is a budding culinary chef.

On a personal note, learning about Daniel and all of his creativeness, I've come to admire his genuinious appreciation and support of the people in his musical life, namely the aspiring musicians that are trying to break through the clutter. With his knowledge, skills, connections and experience, anyone having the pleasure to work with Daniel is surely to have some degree of success, including yours truly.

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Photography courtesy of Daniel Wanrooy

events across Europe, The Winter Music Conference in Miami, Florida, Mayalasia, South Africa and frequent stops in Dubai.

These are just a few places where he's wowed tens of thousands of EDM lovers with his music. When Daniel is not traveling and performing, he's turning his fans on to new music he's discovered with a monthly online radio show—Daniel Wanrooy presents The Beauty of Sound. The show is hosted

by Afterhours FM (AH.FM), the world's #1 Streaming Online Radio station. You can catch Daniel's stream on the 4th Monday of each month at 11:00 EST/17:00 (5:00pm) CET.

Photography courtesy of Daniel Wanrooy

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LATEST SINGLE

SIDEBAR

Daniel's latest project and collaboration is with Chris Severe. Severe is a singer, producer and DJ residing in Paris with a few releases under his belt. To become familiar with his music, jump over to his Soundcloud page and take a listen. It's good stuff. With the two working together on this new project, one can expect stellar production values and vocal prowess. DancePush, out of New York, and Daniel have crossed paths in the past when the label conducted a Q&A session providing insight to what Daniel what was up to in 2014. Now, two years later, comes the release "Gone Too Far" with Chris Severe.

It's set to be released February 29, 2016.

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Ten Questions with

Daniel Wanrooy BSM When would you say is the moment that

you decided to become a professional musician and what was the determining factor that set you on the path to producing electronic music?

DW It wasn't something I planned. I was producer

for a few years when I released my first track to a label called “Massive Drive”. After this there were a few years without any release since I changed software and I was focusing on my study. I teamed up right after my study with a friend and we produced tracks under “Progression” and “Odyssee”.

We had a couple tracks finished and decided to send a demo to Tiësto's Black Hole Recordings. After a few weeks we got feedback that he was interested to sign tracks. After that everything went fast. 2 of the tracks were selected for his famous In Search Of Sunrise 4 compilation. Since then I learned to DJ (with vinyl) and kept on producing, solo projects and collaborations. The year after, Tiësto took me on tour through Europe, it was amazing. Nowadays I do all kinds of things with music, I just produced the music for a Samsung commercial for example. But the love is still with “Electronic music” and Djing.

BSM What inspires you most when you sit down and start writing and composing? Life experiences?

Dreams? Music that you’ve heard or have been listening to? Literature?

DW

All of the above can be very inspiring, and I pick up things daily that I translate into my music I guess. Sometimes even without any inspiration you can make the coolest things by just tweaking with the synths or just browsing through older projects.

But after a week of travelling you know the next few days in the studio will be amazing. Sort of inspiration that piled up and will get out all at once.

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BSM You’ve

recorded for several labels and collaborated with some of the industry’s most successful DJs and producers. Is there a favorite of yours that remains a high point and that has helped you in furthering your carreer?

I think every collaboration is helpful, everyone DW works their own way and it always opens your eyes somehow to see different ways to approach things. One of my highlights was definitely my collaboration with USA Idols finalist Blake Lewis. We made a track a few years ago, together with Dennis Waakop-Reijers (The man behind the older Tiësto hits). I worked in Tiësto's studio for a few weeks with Dennis and the track turned out great, and I still love to play it. After the track was finished I went to LA to shoot the music video, stayed with Blake for a few days and we shot the video. Also that part was amazing and I learned from that part as well. Make the script, search locations, being part of the video and a make a story that fits to the song.

BSM You’ve recently spent some time in the

United States and elsewhere traveling. If you were a professional Travel Agent what would be the one place that you would recommend to someone and why.

DW I have been on each continent so far, except

Australia, so I am not the best agent yet. But hopefully I can add Australia as my last continent this year. Anyway, from what I have seen from the world. I would recommend Hawaii! It's the most incredible, relaxing, beautiful place I have seen so far. It's about the farthest place you can go for us “Dutchies”, but if you can do it, and you are like “Hey, YOLO”, just go for it. Also something very special what I did is seeing the wild Orangutans in Sarawak.

I love animals and nature.

BSM Being an Electronic music producer, do you

ever listen to other styles/genres of music, such as Rock, Pop, Classical, Jazz, etc... and do those types of music influence your songs?

DW Yes I like to listen to a lot of styles. My ipod is

crazy. If you see my playlists there you would think it's 10 families that share that ipod. I have a lounge/ classical session for in the plane during the lazy, boring and sleepy hours. I love Lana Del Ray,

Royksopp, old skool rap, Radiohead, Dutch music (Andre Hazes, you should google him!), Film Music, of course all kinds of Electronic and many more things. They defintely influence my music. When I hear music I mostly directly seperate each track from a song, bassline, lead, pads, percussion. Like how I work in my studio. When I start a new project I can think in the beginning “I am going to make a real banger” and I end up with a very mellow track end of the day.

BSM What are your favorite albums of all time?

DW Wow, it's so hard to say. I just filter my music

mostly in the evening I chill, go the gym or do some playstation with the boys for example. If I sleep bad, which happens once a while, I can be in the studio at night too.

BSM

If you were a professional culinary chef, what would be the one dish that you would have on your menu and why? Do you consider yourself creative and talented in the kitchen?

DW Haha! Well, I love cooking. I cook almost every

actually, I just pick out the tracks I like from a certain artist on Spotify or I download them and make my own sort of album for in the car or plane for example. But the old In Search Of Sunrise CD's and Nyana never get old. It's hard to find a bad track on these compilations. They definitely changed my life back in the early days.

night. I always bring herbs from everywhere I travel.

I recently was in Dubai, I brought a lot of local herbs on the local market. Strange thing I paid more for it then it was offered in the first place, I so have to work on my haggling! After my Dubai trip I made a lot of Curry with my new herbs, so I would go for curry, rice, chicken, fresh vegetables and banana. I consider myself creative for sure, talented I wouldn't dare to say. I haven't had any complaints or deaths so far though!

BSM You’ve performed all over the world, do you

BSM What‘s the craziest thing you’ve seen while

have a favorite city that you look forward to playing in and what makes it so special to you?

DW Hmmm, also a very difficult question. I always

love to go to Asia, the people are really enthousiastic and the countries are amazing to do some extra sightseeing. I love being in the US, it's always like walking around in a movie there. For the rest I am a big fan of Greece. I go there at least twice a year, it became my second home. I love the food, the weather, the sea and of course the people. I know I will forget a lot of places, but every country has something special. So political to say, I know, but it's what I have experienced.

BSM When you are not on tour, describe your typical day.

DW

I always get up early, around 8AM. I make my fresh smoothie, check out my emails and messages that came in. That mostly takes an hour or so. Sometimes it takes a bit longer, especially if I need to do something that needs to be fixed asap. But mostly after I freshed myself up I am in the studio around 10AM. When it's earlier I use my headphones, so my neighbors can wake up in peace too. I am there 'til around dinner time, then I like to cook. If I am still inspired I continue at night. But

performing at a festival or in a club?

DW I have seen many crazy things, you don't want

to know. One of the craziest things I experienced was actually after a gig. I played on a beach festival in Lebanon, half an hour drive from Beirut. After the gig someone brought us back to the hotel.

Let's say there were enough drinks that night and obviously the driver enjoyed them too, so I was a bit sceptic already, but well, let's do this. Everything went smooth the first part and when we were half way in the middle of the highway, in a dark tunnel, the car ran out of gas. There were buses and cars passing on full speed and honking. The driver stayed remarkably cool and called a friend with an SUV. He told everyone to stay calm and that thing like that happen more often. It took about 30 mins before his friend showed up. I thought I would die already a few times. After the guy showed up the driver told everyone to “prepare”. The SUV bumped against us from the back and pushed us that way to the nearest gasoline station. I have never been so happy to back in my hotel.

Follow C/danielwanrooy

M/@danielwanrooy

danielwanrooy.com Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 55

vCD/EP/12" REVIEWS

St. Germain St. Germain Nonesuch Records

Ludovic Navarre, better known by his stage name St. Germain, releases his first studio album in 15 years. St. Germain is the self-titled release from Nonesuch Records, bringing to listeners a mix of his familiar style with a twist that both long-time and new fans will enjoy. This time, he blends that signature ‘French Touch’ style with some African influences that, from the very first track, hits you with a wave of nostalgia that reminds you of what made St. Germain’s sound so popular. The chilled downtempo sounds coupled with blues guitar are similar to “Sure Thing” from his 2000 hit worldwide release Tourist-- featured in pharmaceutical ads in the early 2000s— making it instantly identifiable as one of Navarre’s tracks.

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Photography by Benoit Peverelli

St. Germain also exhibits plucked drums and djembe shaker rhythms that are characteristic of Malian music.

Interesting compositions emerge from this inclusion of Afrobeat rhythms combined with Navarre’s tendency to mix in soulful, vocal R&B and slowed-down breakbeat samples.

“Real Blues”opens the album with the aforementioned Afrobeat rhythms accompanied by synths. There is a Lightnin’ Hopkins sample that acts as a bit of bridge between Navarre’s old influences and where he’s going with this new project. “Sittin’ Here” fades in with a similar rhythm and sound that’s just so infectious that you’ll find yourself bobbing your head tapping your foot to the beat before you realize it. The play between the female vocal samples and the jazz guitar makes it a personal fave of this reviewer. The same could be said for “Viola,” which starts off with that wonderfully played blues electric guitar and features vocals from Malian singers Nahawa Doumbia and Fanta Bagayogo.

The complexity of “How Dare You” is the real jewel of this album. The track features vocals and guitar from R.L. Burnside and starts off with a classic jazz blues rhythm.

At some point, the track transitions to a house beat with the Burnside vocals and djembe shakers, creating a rather enjoyable listening experience for the listener.

Finally, “Mary L.” features synths conga and a smooth breakbeat samples that make for a classic chill, downtempo track.

St. Germain is a wonderful marriage of all of Navarre’s influences. His ability to recapture that wonderful crossover success that he was able to achieve in earlier releases and add yet another element with the Afrobeat sounds makes this latest effort almost worth the 15 year wait. Music has changed a lot since his most successful album and some of the elements in St. Germain that made his sound popular might make it sound a bit dated to some. The album does not break new ground but it does contain some interesting moments that has you looking forward to his next album. One only hopes that fans will not have to wait another 15 years for the next.

—Cory Royster Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 57

Break Simpler Times (CD) Symmetry Recordings For those not familiar with Break, he’s an artist that grew up with an appreciation of Jazz and Funk and a pedigree of multiinstuments who has been recording and producing electronic music for 15 years. You can find his work on acclaimed labels such as No-U Turn, Ram, Metalheadz, and Shogun to list a few. He has remixed hits for Shy FX, Die, Commix and Bloc Party and was named the top DnB artist on Beatport for the year 2014.

'Simpler Times' is the 3rd full-length release from the London based DnB master and Symmetry Recordings Label head.

Working with producers DLR, Xtrah and featuring the vocal talents of Kyo, Mc Fats, Celestine and Mad Hed City, Break has created a gem of an album with 12 tracks of DnB perfection.

The album opens with ‘Nevaeh’ with heavenly vocals by Kyo, jazzy backbeats and drum fills, guitar, and trippy synth sounds.

Next up is the track ‘Confidential’ which

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is a lightning quick burner, followed by the slow tempo ‘Kill Dem’ with Mad Hed City delivering the vocals. These are two tracks that really showcase the direction of Break’s musical vision for the album. ‘Late Exclusive’ has guitar sounds, breakbeats, deep and dirty bass and synth effects that leads into a bass line, keys and drums in what will become Xtrah’s ‘Regulate.’

The halfway point of the album kicks off with another appearance by Kyo on the album’s title track ‘Simpler Times.’ Staying true to the overall feel of the album, this track is a favorite among the 12. It features relevant lyrics for these times and jazz infused guitar against some great drum programming. The next two tracks, ‘Pushing On’ and ‘No Idea’ follow with the same feel and grind as the preceding songs. Then comes the 3rd and final collab wih Kyo on ‘Gave Too Much.’ If you liked her previous performances, you’ll not be disappointed with this one.

Winding down the album is ‘The Flux’ which begins with a minute of drums and a James Brown influenced vocal treatment out front followed by some tasty electronic sounds that leads to faster breakbeats. The name ‘The Flux’ is definitely an appropraiate song title. 'Free Your Mind' is a nice surprise, featuring the voice of Mc Fats, begins with a slow tempo, reggae beat that transforms in to an entirely different feel with fast breakbeats then all of a sudden goes back to the original slow tempo reggae beat then back to the lightning quick breakbeats. It’s 5 plus minutes of whoa!

Closing out the album is ‘Hope’ with Celestine on vocals. It opens with guitars, keys, what sounds like sax, and rhythmic cymbal work building up to another signature Break

tune. For those that dig DnB with an inflection of Jazz, specifically Jazz Guitar, ‘Simpler Times’ will satisfy and will Break receive DJ play as he has in the past? One would think so. All in all, this album, as stated in the beginning of this review, is a gem.

—Joseph Arthur

Markee Ledge Elevate (CD) Kosheen Records Markee Ledge aka Kosheen was born in Glasglow, Scotland during a period of musical explosion in Europe. Moving to Bristol exposed Markee to the birth of ragga, breakbeat and hardcore techno. Parlaying these experiences of freshness, he started jungle club night Ruffneck Ting with his Ledge crew. The move proved to be a stroke of pure genius. Bristol at this time was brimming with the embodiment of some of the most recognized names in electronic music.

Those influences have helped Ledge forge a career of prodigious output and varying titles of nomenclature. A self described musical cocktail of electronica, dub reggae,

breakbeats, and Techno, 'Elevate' raises the level of diversity and technique Markee deploys on production. One of the goals with this release was to expose the world to a few powerful songs Markee had in his back pocket. He steeped himself in the deep sound coming from London and Rinse FM. He wanted to recapture to feeling and tone of his groundbreaking album Resist (2001). So, he let his fingers do the talking.

'Talk is Cheap' is a perfect sampling of Ledge's talent as a producer. A simple pulsating low-fi beat, breaks into a mellow sweep of hi-hats and seeps into a monotone sample of a sung chorus and short in duration. This is the perfect track for a HipHop album. What I notice most is how well the instrumentation is mixed together.

Everything is placed so well sonically.

The lush tones combine with lucid vocals that always entices. You certainly won't be left wanting for more. This is a true LP, 17 tracks strong. 'Purity' has a chirppy sample begins a melodic foray. The sprinkling synthesizer note embraces the mid-tempo track. The vibration of the humming bass line carries the song for miles. You notice the slight softness of the cymbals crashing and there is a delicacy here. He took the time to give you a landing place within your auditory senses with the voice of Susie Ledge. 'Escape', a sine-wave of drowned synthesizers that are slowed to a snails pace. It's like an IV of minimalist techno washed with slight touches of deep house. The vocalist who is singing has a intertwining trance like range. Of particular interest is the phrase "Something to take me away, Something to ease the pain." It is an eloquent summation to this song. 'Trust Me' is a rolling trifecta of hi-tone drum patterns, accompanied with the frantic scatter of a scratchy loop, and trailing ghostly vocals. The album ends with Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 59

'Dayz', a song that feels like the end of summer reaching back one last time to burry the good times and memories in a smoldering bonfire. The slow churn of the low frequency bass lines, and the guitar loop spreads out across the album. The lilting drawl of the lyrics gently waves its last goodbye. It serves as the cellophane wrapping on this release. Very polished and highly satisfactory.

—Erik L. Richardson

Rockwell Obsolete Medium (CD) Shogun Audio Thomas Green—aka ROCKWELL is breaking through the clutter as an emerging talent in the Drum and Bass world. Coming off the heels of his legendary track ‘Detroit’ and teasing us with the 2014 releases ‘I Need U’ and ‘1234’ is ‘Obsolete Medium’, a 15 Track goldmine of jaw dropping D&B. The album opens with a 55 second interlude of spoken word giving us a small glimpse to the artist’s approach in making music. ROCKWELL’s ability to create highly

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complex songs fueled with unrelenting beats and rhythms makes this album a must have for fanatics of D&B. Each track delves into weird sounds and experimentation that is seldom heard. The crafting of the songs exhibits ROCKWELL’s punk sensibilities merging with hypersonic drumming, basslines that move in all directions, and snythesizer and keyboard sounds that stand outside the norm.

The transition from track to track is an effortless progression that will delight listeners with each having it’s own identity, ranging from dance floor to hip-hop to house.

Standing out among the selections are ‘Faces’ with Lauren L’Aimant, ‘Itsok2behapp-e’ with Sam Binga & Hyroglifics and ‘Guts/ Blood/Sex/Drugs’ featuring Jams.

Talking about the release Rockwell states "I was struggling for the last few years by trying to write a certain type of music that I thought people were expecting of me, and consequently not making much progress.

I took a conscious decision to let the tunes develop organically and not try to force their direction.

All the while, not taking the process too seriously and not being afraid to poke fun at myself and the traps of being an electronic music producer. I'm really happy to have some of my friends on here with me including Breakage, Sam Binga, Hyroglifics and long time sparring partner Phace. Shouts to you guys."

With ‘Obsolete Medium’, ROCKWELL has acheived what he set out to create, an hour of frenetic speed, innovative sound, technicality and an insane amount of creativity that rivals the best in the genre.

—Joseph Arthur

RVRS 777 (CD) Jong Recordings RVRS is a very grounded young artist, with a strong penchant for reaching back and showing love to some of music's greatest artist, songwriters, and personalities on 777.

RVRS (pronounced Reverse) is Jonathan Garnier, a Parisian born transplant who moved to Long Beach, California, he has created an album in 777 that is similar to the musical themes found on 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band' (The Beatles), 'Rubber Soul'(The Beatles), 'Days of Future Past' (Moody Blues), 'Pet Sounds' (The Beach Boys), and 'Hunky Dory' (David Bowie). More than a collection of songs, there is a message in this music.

Being as though he is a very diverse artist,he knows the various techniques and skills it takes to use perspective and space to his advantages. I'm sure Jonathan is aware of the harmonious relationships that are found between music and the arts. Offering an album of tracks that displays his personal

touches of production artistry. 777 shows a delicate introspection with the usage of archival samples and nostalgic sound clips.

Such can be heard throughout on 'El Topo.' The song begins with an 8 bit "End of Game" title sequence digitization that breaks into a full track braced by middling synth pattens of various keys. I can see the creative visions involved, even if I don't immediately get the track. On 'Space Oddity,' I am really beginning to appreciate his ability channel his inner Bowie incarnation of Ziggy Stardust.

The title of the track fits the persona and existential meanings of the Glam Rock era.

The Space race was a defining point in the Baby Boomer generation of lives.

It helped to shape America's innovative direction for the next 50 years and it gave birth to the possibilities of known science beyond Earth.

'10:15 Saturday Night' is a sprawling track very reminiscent of Beck. I can't say for sure how much of an influence Jonathan got from him, but listening to the soupy, muted mashed tones of the vocals, really defines the song. The spoken lyrics draw out the framework of the production and follow along the rhythm of the synthesized melody. 'Amore Bello' starts off with a circus style pipping organ as the backdrop, then overlays vocal tracks from various movies and televisions shows. The pairing moves along with a muffled and then clear thrum of punchy drum patterns and more uptempo phrasings.

Taken as a whole 777 is an esoteric take on an artists stream of consciousness. —Erik L. Richardson Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 61

Aurora Dee Raynes Do What You Do (EP) WotNot Records Aurora Dee Raynes seemingly has come out of no where to garner a significant amount of buzz in the underground EDM circuits. With the release of Do What You Do-EP (WotNot Music), Aurora Dee Raynes can now step into the light out of the shadows.This EP is the collaborative efforts between rising beats/jungle/footwork producer Touchy Subject (Steven Raynes) and vocalist ​Danielle Kranendonk​. The duo is gaining support from the likes of Kutmah & Flying Lotus.

What is more like an R&B tone and structure, Do What You Do eschews the traditional formats of R&B production. This is nothing like what you would hear on top 40 radio.

This is more of a stripped down, laid out and relaxed vibe. More of a coffee shop and lounge sound, Danielle takes the sublime and weaves a colorful tapestry of imagery

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and simplicity with her voice. The grooves are melodic without being overly laid with sound effects and added production techniques. The tracks and vocal pairings make for very satisfying "extended play." The track 'Be' is a very soft and delicate track that resembles the work of Erykah Badu. The spoken word lyrics comes across as a conversation more than an actual song. The minimalist synthesizer chords are splashed with subtle distortion effects, that expands the journey of the listener.

'The Beast With Two Backs' flows over your auditory senses. With waves of fleshed out tones and colorful samples, they are looped over each other to create an almost elastic soundscape.

Danielle's singing is a very reassuring emotive experience. She uses very interpersonal prose and phrases that create the larger framework of the musical direction.

The production is always mastered perfectly with soothing beats, and very precise breaks of experimentation. For instance 'Do What You Do' is a break from form. This track is instrumental but more in line with traditional electronica. It's a low-fi, bass heavy track that chops the vocals of 'Do What You Do' into a mechanized voice. Surrounding the pitchy, computer like effects, is a perfect pairing for a Hip-Hop single.

I can see this release becoming a very important work for the future endeavors of both Danielle and Touchy Subject.

This EP will be the forbearer of greater things to come with a full length release. I certainly cannot wait for it.

—Erik L Richardson

Felix Dickinson feat. Robert Owens A Day's Reality (EP) Futureboogie Recordings Felix Dickinson has a rich history. He spent 10 years spinning for Japan’s wildly popular Lifeforce parties, and was there in the early days of the U.K.’s House scene.

He’s performed under the names of Foolish and Sly, LHAS Inc., Das Etwas, Bestedos and has records out on DFA, Eskimo, Rush Hour, International Feel and his own label Cynic Music.

His fans have seen him perform over the years at major events such as The Garden Festival, Burning Man, and Glastonbury, He's also toured extensively throughout Japan and the United States. His London resdencies 'Bad Passion' and his notorious 'Bring It' parties have aslo contributed to his fame.

Now, let’s get to his latest single, “A Day’s Reality”, the second release on the Futureboogie Recordings label that came out in December 2015. Recuiting Chicagoan Robert Owens for the vocals was a brilliant

choice for the track. Owens, whose own pedigree goes back to Fingers Inc. and Frankie Knuckles, delivers his soulful voice that turns A Day’s Reality in to a classic Chicago House influenced song. The Original Mix, a 8 minute and 53 second hypnotic groove, begins drum and percussive work that brings to mind New Order, then comes in the deep groove of the bass line and the keys both out front and in the background.

It’s it about 3 and half minutes before Owens comes in and delivers a perfect performance.

There are three additional mixes to this tune. The Justin Van Der Volgen Remix, Dedication Mix and the Dedication Instrumental Remix.

Van Der Volgen’s reworking of the track has the keyboard melody and vocals in the beginning, then brings in the beats and sounds of hi-hat cymbals and claps. It’s a nice take on the original.

The Dedication Mix is the mix that stands out the most. Mikey Yamada takes the song to a disco, infused live bass and guitars, both furnished by Yoya Kobayashi.

It’s a production with sounds straight out of the height of the disco scene and really compliments the vocalist.

The Dedication Instrumental Mix is also heavily disco influenced, minus the voice.

Featuring the deep bass and guitar groove and melody throughout as demonstrated on the Dedication Mix, it also highlights the signature sounds from the disco era, Strings and subtle and delicate Piano chords and fingerings.

This EP is a delight to behold and embrace. Especially for those with an infinity for disco music.

—Joseph Arthur Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 63

Fourward Elektrik (EP) Shogun Audio Hailing from Wein (Vienna), Austria the collective known as Fourward are a amorphous gaggle of merry men. They have been in the industry as an outfit since 2007 and have become very acclaimed quickly in the Drum & Bass movement. Somewhat of a Supergroup, they form a powerful symbiotic relationship with one another. With the 4 track 'Elektrik' EP out on the Shogun Audio label, they really push the depths of their cohesive nature. The entire work itself sounds like the extension or play-on the track that preceded it. It feels like a complete recording although there are only 4 tracks to hear. One of Fourward's main goals with this teaser was to touch all corners of their musical foundations. They took the time to write and hone in on their direction musically.

The introspection brought forth more soulful, vibey compositions. The standout 'Memories Of You' is such a song. Opening with a frenetic piano chord and D&B bass line, this is a perfect backdrop for Grimm's mellow vocals. The shimmering transition to

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a heavier midsection blends well overall.

The opening title track 'Elektrik' sets the tone for the entire EP. The rapid fire pulses of tones and crisp baselines is immense. You feel disoriented by the rush and narration of the track progression. The spoken voice over, perfectly matches the pace of the track.

While the robotic 'Electrical Field' hums along repetitively in the early seconds, it's an accompaniment that drives along with the chopped, mashed synthesizer tones. On 'Sticks & Stones' the cryptic out of tune organ paces the otherwise broken progressive soundwaves and vocal sample loops. All that have been digitally altered give the album its dark voice. The main bass line and tempo is steady and familiar. It is closely reminiscent of the one used on the preceding track Spike.

As I mentioned earlier, each track is basically a refresh or a new take on its predecessor save for 'Memories Of Me.' All of this aids in the albums listenability and completion as a project. Fourward took a few months to write a whole lot of music and picked these 4 tunes to be on their new EP. They don't break new barriers. But, they definitely break sub-woofers. —Erik L. Richardson

Illustrated Traitors (Single) Play Me Records We first introduced our readers to Sean Layton aka Illustrated in our very first issue of BEATSELECTOR Magazine, profiling him and giving a page of editorial space describing the great music he has produced and what he has in store for his fans and the industry as a whole. Now the time has arrived to enlighten you with Illustrated's latest Single 'Traitors' that was released this past November on Play Me Too Records.

I’ve been a fan of Illustrated right from the beginning of discovering his music and when I received notice of his latest single, ‘Traitors’, I was thrilled and excited to hear what kind of sounds his latest production would bring to this listeners ears. I was not disappointed.

‘Traitors’ is a work of sunshiny dance music with a touch of romantic tinged lyrical prose, singing about light, positivity and hope, all backed by trap and hip-hop beats with a melody of sweeping synthesizer textures that are trademarks of Layton’s sound. The smooth pop vocal delivery right from the outset sets the tone, then the addition of the beats and keyboard wizardry, building to climatic and anthemic proportions, ultimately causing the song to get stuck in your head. This latest Illustrated offering is on repeat, repeat and repeat.

I may be biased, but it’s well deserved and a testament to the songwriting skills that Layton exhibits. So, if you are like-minded, and looking for an escape from the cold winter doldrums, look no further, add ‘Traitors’ to your song library and play, play and play.

—Joseph Arthur

Kygo feat. Maty Noyes Stay (Single) Ultra Music When Kygo was asked to remix Ed Sheeran’s ‘I See Fire’, the project literally shot him to international fame and success. His productions have been heard and viewed by hundreds of millions around the globe and with this level of success, it becomes obvious why world famous musicians and groups would be turning to him for remix projects.

Case in point, after the success of Sheeran’s ‘I See Fire’ remix, Coldplay and Chris Martin came calling recuiting the Norwegian DJ to remix their hit ‘Midnight’ which helped propel him to the upper echelons of today's echelons of today's remixers and producers.

During the years of 2014-15, Kygo released just a handful of singles, the latest being ‘Stay’ featuring Maty Noyes on vocals for Ultra Music. Released on December 5th, 2015, ‘Stay’ is song that will warm your soul during the cold months. Maty Noyes was the perfect choice to provide the vocals for the piece of sunshine pop in the Tropical House sense. The brilliantly crafted song displays Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 65

Kygo infectous, yet simple beats, but it is again, the choosing of Maty Noyes to lay down the vocals that really turns the track in to what has become a world-wide smash hit.

—Joseph Arthur

2 minutes in, piano chords take over and then the overall theme of the track takes over building up to a frenzy of energetic dance music that is a delight to listen to, let alone dance to.

—Joseph Arthur

Liquid Cosmo Time Goes By (Single) Kaisen Records

Love Ssega Pray For Love/Will Saul RMX (Single) Hometown/Sony Records

Mannheim Germany’s own DJ Liquid Cosmo has spent the last few years honing his skill set as Progressive producer and DJ performing throughout Germany and Croatia. In November 2015, he debuted a new sound and direction with the release of ‘Time Goes By’, a single track on Kaisen Records.

This effort by Liquid Cosmo clearly demontrates his love for a bass heavy groove, percussive beats, stellar keyboard effects with sounds resembling a marimba, claps, and vocal treatments. This new formula lays the foundation of what should be a club dance floor banger for the winter season.

Love Ssega is being called the next big name coming out the British music scène.

He first broke into the scene in 2014 providing his vocals to Clean Bandit’s ‘Mozart’s House.’

The Londoner’s debut single ‘Pray For Love’ is creating quite a buzz with regular spins on BBC Radio 1, Beats 1, and recently being named Noisy’s Artist of the Month.

The single gives two distinct variations of Pray for Love. First, the Formation Remix is deep with a heavy bass line way out front, driving beats with various percussion sounds, soulful disco influenced vocals and elements of New Wave keyboards reminiscent of Yaz.

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Will Saul’s Remix is an interesting rework of the song with prominent claps, clanging cowbell sounds, keyboards, looped vocals and has more of a feel of today’s dance music productions. Pay attention to this artist. The music demands it..

—Joseph Arthur

Luciano feat. JAW 7direction(s) (EP) Cadenza Records Luciano is constantly producing music.

He can't help it, that is his passion. Whether it be in the form as a well respected Dj in residence Space in Ibiza this season. Or, his highly successful sets that recently culminated with the, Off-Sonar show at El Poble Espanyol. Luciano has also become a staple at his weekly Vagabundos. He has consistently released new music every year. The recently departed 2015 not with standing. We have one of Luciano's more polished offerings. Think of it as a gift to endthe year. 7 Directions off the Cadenza Records label is perhaps one of Luciano’s less

ambitious productions. It’s a vast, expansive listen, with delicate intersperses of melodic touches. Calling into play is his intricate production techniques, taking care not to become cluttered. Luciano is rather using the space to enunciate the sheer hypnotism stored within. Therein lies his connection to his audience. He not only wants you to dance and enjoy the music, but he wants to immerse your body in a cloak of sound.

The addition of JAWs vocals float over the listener without resistance. High pressure drum patterns, that are trailed by conga's and plenty of thrusting bass. The signature offerings of Dennis Ferrer help to further push the sound of the song. He uses his extensive DJ'ing, and producing experiences to meld the two separate tracks of 7 Directions.

The Matthew Herbert, One Direction Dub, is a splendid take with digitally advancing drum patterns, intertwined with prodding waves of synthesizers.

The undulation of the whole sound is mesmerizing to hear. As the song moves along there are places of broken and purposeful breaks in the flow. This is where each producer really can express their own style. As the track ends, the entire sound disintegrates and reforms slightly ajar. Even the more placid and restrained chop and thrust of the drum pattern on Original Mix flow smoothly in and out of the droning speech of JAW. The lithe keyboard trails, claps and bell ringing really help to brighten the prose of the lyrics. It is a very interesting piece of work taken as a whole. It speaks to Luciano's artistry.

—Erik L. Richardson Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 67

Mic Meimaroglou Colonized (EP) 808 Recordings

Modini The Answer (Single) Hypercolour

Mic Meimarglou’s latest EP ‘Colonized’ on 808 Records presents three Techno fused songs that as the Press Release states “envelopes you and does not let you escape.”

Pretty spot on.

Opening with the title track, ‘Colonized’, the song is composed of simplistic, yet sophisticated layers of melodic electronic sounds set above trance inducing rhythmic percussion.

On ‘Chion’, the song hits you with pulsating bass, fast paced cymbal work and beeps that leads in to a real groove of syncopated keyboard rhythms and intricate soundscapes.

‘Cretan’ closes the EP with fuzzy background noise below a repeating melody of minimalism that literally is 4-5 keyboard notes. Meimarglou has produced a very interesting collection of ideas and creativity in this EP. —Joseph Arthur

Modini is the Scottish collaborative team of Techno magician Neil Landstrumm and Producer Hostage. They’ve worked together for many years releasing their deep shades of Techno and Electro music on labels Peacefrog, Tresor, Origami Sound and Dixon Avenue Basement Jams.

Their latest EP, ‘The Answer’ comes to us by way of Hypercolour, a U.K. label that has had dozens of very good releases in 2015.

Describing the music on the 4 Track EP, the Press Release states that the title track Version mix “touches on the classic side of electro, with an infectious ‘how do you get to sleep at night’ vocal hook rolling over incessant bleeps and chugging 4x4 beats, coming over like a pitched down Relief Records cut for the modern age. ‘Impressive Pineapple’ ratchets up the tempo, rolling beats and head scrambling bleep-work tussles with a hefty bass line and choppy vocals. The final track ‘Saluting Magpies’ features more bass line madness and drilling

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drums, imaginatively off the wall samples jab in between the spaces and we’re shown a master-class in forward thinking dance music from the Modini team.”

Now, here’s my take…’The Answer’ and ‘The Answer Version Mix’ demonstrate the creative juices of Landstrumm and Hostage, delivering two variations that are ripe with trippy noise, hypnotic beats and nightmarish vocals. It’s the clever workings of the electronic keys and sequences with the sexy vocals, that makes both brilliant statements of wild imagination and originality.

‘Impressive Pineapple’ follows in the same vein, with a very deep bass groove, claps, and syncopated electronic and futuristic dance rhythms. It’s a floor filler.

‘Saluting Magpies’ is a 4 minute 48 second mind trance inducing mind f**k, you’ll have to trust me as words to describe this wild track are literally hard to compose, but I do encourage you to listen for yourself, especially if you are the adventurous type.

Modini has created an EP in ‘The Answer’ showcasing their skills in creating music that is both adventurous and intriguing, coupled with a magnificent use of rhythm, sounds and vision. Bravo!

—Joseph Arthur

Polynation Why You-The Remixes (EP) Atomnation Polynation, the Dutch duo of Stijn Hosman and Hessel Stuut from The Netherlands released an EP in December of their single ‘Why You’ from their 2015 fulllength album 'Allogamy' on Atomnation.

This 4 track EP, with 3 different remixes, is for the lovers of ambient music without doubt.

The track, an original 7 plus minute mix, is a beautiful sound-scape backed by driving drum playing and a crafty, dreamy keyboard/ synth melody.

The first ‘Why You’ remix, reworked by Vessels, puts an entirely different spin on the track, focusing more on programmed drumming creating a nice rhythmic texture with layers of whispery vocal treatments.

The Oaktree remix showcases the track with an emphasis on electronic keys producing the most ambient of sounds, which is completely opposite of the previous and it’s a wonderful take on the tune.

The final remix, with Love Over Entropy at the helm, provides the listener with a pulsating opening and trancey electronics turning the melody in to yet a totally different direction.

This is a remix EP that offers the listener 4 diverse and excellent takes on an original theme and as a listener, you’d think they were four different compositions.

High marks for those involved and a recommended listen for those with a taste of ambient music that want to get lost in the moment.

—Joseph Arthur Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 69

Sidestepper Come See Us Play (Single) I instantly felt a spark of excitement when the intro to Sidestepper’s new single 'Come See Us Play' started pushing through my headphones. It has the playful vibe of a summer afternoon with a bunch of kids getting ice cream and laughing in front of a fire hydrant - pure joy.

After hearing their new single and diving into their bio head first, I discovered the primary motive and message for the Columbian group and their music almost immediately - love. When asked about what their music is like, founding member and producer Richard Blair explained, “We’ve tried to put a sound and a voice to how we live here but most of all we’ve tried to put a call out to love in all its forms, and I guess we started with our love of music itself.”

As one of the originators of the Colombian “electro cumbia" genre, a mixture of cumbia and EDM, they quote their influences from salsa, cumbia and both dub and drum and bass EDM styles. Each album they make has a completely different sound

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than the last, and their upcoming release is no exception. Prior to this album, after spending over two decades programming electronic beats, Blair had felt like we've come to a point, globally, where everything in the electronic genre sounded the same; there was nothing new to be made with electronic beats on their own. Their new album promises the same latin grooves and dance music that they’re known for, but to set themselves apart and keep things fresh, all of the beats are now made with hand drums, seeds and shakers, kalimbas, flutes and guitar, together with melodic vocals.

The inspiration for the new sound comes from the idea that there were many incredible dance bands in Colombia, Haiti, Trinidad, Cuba and Africa before the electronic revolution in the 80s and 90s and Sidestepper vowed to create an organic sound that goes back to that tradition.

They’re self-proclaimed sound is strong and groovy, timeless and fluid - and I agree.

Blair explains, "It's an exploration of how all Caribbean music is part of the same family, from Colombia to New Orleans, there's an anglo-latin feel to the groove, and songs in both Spanish and English, often mixing melodies from both traditions.

There's a strong indigenous influence, and the way the songs are put together comes from the timeless use of melody and rhythm that's been making dance music well before we started recording it in the 20th century. There is a lot of joy in the record, both in melody and the lyrics, which are consciously radiant and uplifting throughout the album." They’ve had the chance to work with some legendary acts over the years, such as drummer Kike Egurrola (now with Bomba Estéreo, Gloria

"Goyo" Martínez from ChocQuibTown, and Humberto Pernett.

Since 2009 the lineup hasn’t changed: vocalists Janio Coronado, Edgardo Garcés and Érika Muñoz complimenting guitarist Teto Ocampo, drummer Pedro Ojeda, percussionist El Chongo, and Blair on bass/ keyboards/programming.

Their new album 'Supernatural Love' will be released on January 29th, 2016, don’t miss it.

—Stephanie Hernandez

in it’s rhythmic structure and intertwines claps, vocal loops and bouncing bass with energetic fever.

—Joseph Arthur

Watch The Duck The Trojan Horse (EP) Dim Mak

Slurrp Slurrp (EP) Exploris Slurrp’s self titled EP on Exploris showcases two very dirty and thumping tracks with ‘This Gonna Get Bitchy’ and ‘Witness The Strength.’

'This Gonna Get Bitchy’ is a body shaking cut with deep bass that invites floor filling participation with it’s ghetto sounds and flashes of disco and funk influenced elements.

‘Witness The Strength’ is a bit quicker

Jessie Rankins, Eddie Smith III and Jonathan Wells comprise WatchTheDuck and have been a pioneering force blending and fusing electronic and soul music creating their own Trapstep signature sound that has led to career defining opportunities working with the likes of Beyoncé, T.I., AfroJack and Pharrell Williams, among others.

And in case you didn’t know, this past Summer’s hit film, ‘Dope’ featured their single ‘Poppin’ Off’, joining the TV’s ‘Banshee’, ‘One Life to Live’, VH1’s ‘Love and Hip-hop New York’, and ESPN’s ‘First Take’, introducing them to a huge audience. 'Trojan Horse', a Beatselector Magazine | Issue N° 4 | 71

a seven track EP out now on Dim Mak/Epic Records, reeks of maddening beats, comical lyrics, famous collaborators and high production value.

The opening track ‘Stretch 2-3-4’ with Pharrell Williams could have wide commercial and licensing opportunities with the hooky song pushing exercise and exercise terminology throughout. Will we all be hearing it via TV ads? We’ll see.

Now getting back to the critique per se, On ‘Strectch 2-3-4’, Wells comes in with powerful vocals and then transitions into a chorus of back and forth with Williams with an impeccable sense of timing, the feel and groove of the music a perfect accompaniment for the voicing and is personally, it’s my favorite track.

All three T.I Tracks ‘Makin’ Luv to the Beat’ with DJ E-Freezy, ‘Don’t Blame Luv’, and ‘Hustler’ give you a perfect marriage of beats and melody with first-rate vocals.

SchoolBoy Q and Candice Pillay add their stylings that compliment, enhance and move a soulful track ‘6 Shots.’

‘Lost Future’ is a slow tempo, deep bass track incorporating tripped out sounds courtesy of AfroJack.

Steve Aoki lends his creative musings to the EPs closer ‘Beautiful, Broken & Wasted', a track that brings the sounds of Wells vocals, strumming Guitar, Drums, staccato Keyboards and Synthesizer effects elevating the listener to new and mesmerizing heights.

While not much is known about Yaleesa Hall, Malin Genie, is a celebrated producer and co-runs the Oscillate label out of Amsterdam and Paris. Genie is also a member of Mandar, a formation with Lazare Hoche and Samuel Andre Madsen.

Although 'First Lucas’, ‘Second Lucas’, and ‘Third Lucas’ have previously been released separately and individually on Will & Ink, the label decided to package the collaborative project as a three track EP. All three versions of ‘Lucas’ heavily feature the kick drum alongside industrial noises and hypotic synthesizer sounds with mesmerizing effects. As you listen, the music transition takes you to sounds generated from "who knows where and what." This is collaboration and production that is high on imagination and creativity and is definitely not for the faint hearted.

—Joseph Arthur

—Joseph Arthur

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Yaleesa Hall & Malin Genie First Lucas (Single) Will & Ink

Introducing

DISCOVERIES

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