2024 repress

Prana glistens into existence as ethereal pads drift by, giving way to a subtle, almost deep house beat that pulses nicely, backed by tribal-esq percussion. A gently staccato synth pattern flutters in and out toying with the idea of techno ever so slightly yet keeping well within the realms of his usual sound. Simplicity is the key in this track and Deepchord allows it to evolve slowly and he toys with sweeps of reverb and FX giving the track a lush, organic sound.

Tantra gives off a tougher vibe than it predecessor. Gently layered, deeper, edgier synths open the track as percussive elements, swathed in FX form the basis of the groove. Bolstered by a typical Deepchord dubbed out bass line this track once again evolves perfectly almost without the listener noticing the subtle changes that give Tantra a deep and emotive flow.

Never one to sit still and be pigeon holed into a genre, Deepchord easily turns his hand once again a brings two beautifully crafted tracks in his own inimitable style More

Tracklisting:
A1 Deepchord - Fluorescence
A2 Deepchord - Glyphs
B1 Deepchord - Orbitals
B2 Deepchord - Leafiness

Sales Note
- 2023 repress - More

full colour sleeve

2023 repress

Tracklisting:
A1 Deepchord - Shale
A2 Deepchord - Lateral
B1 Deepchord - Mapping
B2 Deepchord - Ricochet

Release Note:
Detroit's deep techno master, Deepchord, makes a more than welcome return to Soma after 5 years. With a brand new album dropping, Rod Modell delves deep into his ethereal sonic world to bring you 'Functional Extraits 1'. The first single to be taken from the forthcoming album. Built in a way that only Deepchord can, he transports you to different realms with lush soundscapes and perfectly processed electro-acoustics giving you an insight to the mind of the unique artist.

Shale glides across a field of electo-static noise, guided gently by cisps, fleeting percussion and gently warping synths. Lateral begins awash with waves of sound and glistening dub stabs while rolling beats acts as the heart beat of the track with a building intensity adding a sense of urgency. The uplifting yet dystopian sounds of Mapping spiral into existence urging you down the rabbit hole as more classic techno percussion manoeuvres this track on it's journey. Modell seeking out his roots as yet more traditional dub techno prevails via the final track, Ricochet. Pumping kicks and sub set to a perfect pace and ambience is a perfect, contemporary nod to the time honoured Deepchord sound. More

Tracklisting:
A1 Deepchord - Darkness Falls
A2 Deepchord - Transit Systems
B1 Deepchord - Strangers
B2 Deepchord - Panacast
C1 Deepchord - Cloudsat
C2 Deepchord - Pressure
D1 Deepchord - Ebb and Flow
D2 Deepchord - Memories

Release Note:
Soma proudly presents Functional Designs, the latest collection of nocturnal environments from Deepchord, marking his first full length album release on Soma in 5 years. The enigmatic Detroit based producer once again transports us into his sonic realm via night-walks through numerous cities before being transmuted into aural excellence through field recordings, holographic synth tones, cosmic sounds and the hiss of electric wires. All swimming around in filtered 4/4 beats and subterranean basslines. The album is a perfect example of electroacoustic techno transmitted from undisclosed locations, the amalgamation of swirling tapestries of sound, deeper than night and lifeforms moving around underneath the grid.

The album glistens into existence with the beatless Amber breathing life into the project before the eventide of Darkness Falls offers a beautifully subtle and contemplative atmosphere. The guiding light of Transit Systems continues to offer up melancholy with echoing percussion and drifting soundscapes. The highly processed acoustics of Strangers brings a sense of intrigue to the album's journey as Modell works in the most percussive track so far. Panacast is exotic dub techno at it's finest, with warping and perfectly crafted synth work building gently over the top of sub heavy beats, glued perfectly together by the hiss of the collected found-sounds. In a slight rise in tempo, Cloudsat, makes a journey skyward, collecting mood and feelings from high altitude with its emotive synth work. The reverberating halls of Pressure again work as a testament to Modell's sonic crafting - honing in on specific artefacts from his field recordings, imbuing them with deeper purpose. The perfectly titled Ebb and Flow drifts effortlessly on a tide of evolving, blissful sound waves crashing to shore as each one overlaps the other. Beginning the descent into the final part of the album, you begin your ride across a cosmic plain, lit by the glistening and ethereal Sun. The meditative Memories opens a conduit to other realms as the album closes out with the elysian melodies of Drassanes.

Deepchord once again proves he is a producer like no other. A true sonic sculptor who uses his real world experience to create vast, unparalleled soundscapes that captivate and enthral the listener. More

Yet more blissful listening comes your way courtesy of the impeccably talented Deepchord. As we prepare for the release Auratones, the Detroit native's 5th LP for Soma, Rod delivers the calming Northern Shores EP. Epic aural formations are always at the forefront of Deepchord productions, every minute detail is constructed perfectly as each track gives off subtle nuances that nod to each aspect of Modell's sound designer skills. The crystalline sonic formations in Cirriforms blend together effortlessly allowing you to drift beyond while the ethereal pads of Sky Maps guide you through each unending swathe of reverb, each track bonded by subtle rhythms. Crystal Horizons sees Modell delve even deeper, working more with percussive elements as his quintessential synth work seems to sit just beyond perspective, gliding in gently to remind you of an ever reaching presence. Sand And Shore has Deepchord near strip the track of any clear rhythmic structure, with only faint sub bass allowing his uniquely processed field recordings and tranquil yet fluctuating synths to enhance the flow of the track. A producer like no other, Deepchord creates new sonic realms with each release. More

Repress

The incomparable Deepchord is back on Soma and drops the first single from forthcoming album, Auratones due in October. As is expected from the Detroit based sound designer, the Campfire EP is everything we have come to know and admire about his productions; from the spaced out, ambient sound fields to classic Dub Techno. Perfumes Of A Spring Mist delicately opens this latest EP with entrancing, processed soundscapes, beautifully haunting melody and simple rhythmic elements than seem to evolve naturally allowing you to get lost in the sea of vibrations. Xpan leans on the more classic Dub Techno sound from Deepchord of years passed. Sub heavy beats and jagged yet tranquil synths sweep across the palette as Deepchord plays with constantly fluctuating chords, bringing the quintessential 90s Deep Techno into his more modern, processed sound. Title track Campfire brings ambience to the forefront to close out the EP. Melancholic synth elements drift across an expanse of refined and uniquely crafted field recordings, offering an insight into the areas from which Deepchord draws his inspiration. Once again Deepchord proves to be one of the most visionary artists the electronic world has seen. More

black vinyl repress

Atmospheric Vol 2 is the second single to be taken from Deepchord's latest full length but sees him stray from the album tracks, bringing 3 exclusive pieces to the vinyl, keeping in the same musical vein as Ultraviolet Music. Exploring the North & Pinewood Lodge see Rod Modell on more Deep Techno excursions as beautifully sweeping pads and glistening synths drift by ever evolving, perfectly processed atmospheres. Deepchord's unique use of subtle field recordings throughout give both of these tracks a real heady/druggy quality and his seamless loops allow you to drift of into his fully developed dream world. Shot Point delves into straight up ambient territory with Deepchord striking an unearthly balance between the natural and synthetic world. Yet more flawlessly collected field recordings wash away on an ocean of reverb soaked pads, drowning the listener within its mesmerising tides. More

black vinyl repress

The ever enigmatic Deepchord makes a most welcome return to Soma with this, the first single to be taken from this latest full length, Ultraviolet Music. Three beautiful slices have been cut from the album to form this truly outstanding single and shows Deepchord return to a straight up mix of heady, cerebral dub techno infused with more solid rhythms. More

Soma mainstay Deepchord returns with part 2 of the Luxury Series. This Double A release feature Deepchord’s signature atmosphere rich tones and lush environments and also mark a slight upturn in terms of pressing on a more Techno vibe. Luxury 3 opens as spacious as can be as the dynamic Modell crafts otherworldly pads and haunting tones, driven by muted kicks and driving subs. His effective use of delay and reverb knows no bounds as he subtly shifts synth stabs and background noise through the dimensional barrier, creating rhythms so refined they defy the natural law. His usual percussive wizardry is at work here that, whilst vigorous, retains a light atmospheric feeling keeping fully in line with the melancholic tones of the track. Clocking in around 14minutes, this is Modell as his most immersive. Luxury 4 has a distinct Detroit heart to it. Those almost instantly recognisable saw waves, moulded by layers upon layers of processing, swirls and evolve and Deepchord slowly works in various elements of the track to unparalleled levels. Fairly reminiscent of earlier, more stripped work, subtle percussion brings things to life fairly quickly as Modell allows the layers of ethereal synths and processing to blend and fuse naturally, creating a cohesive background to which the listener can easily spend hours listening to, every time finding ever so slight nuances to each cycle of the track. Deepchord never fails to impress with every release and can easily change his style up from previous incarnations based in pure atmospherics to his own unique brand of legendary Dub Techno.

More

The ever-reliant Deepchord kicks off 2014 in his usual stylish way with two deep cuts in the Luxury EP. After last years jaunt into the ambient with 20 Electrostatic Soundfields, Rod Model return to the world of slick beats and even dreamier synths and atmospheres. Luxury 1 ebbs in majestically as beautifully crafted layers of synths glide across field recorded drops of water that instantly play with your senses. Pumping sub bass fills the rest of the spectrum as Rod does what he does best by creating an unending slick groove, pieced together by crisp percussion. Yet more atmospherics come into play in Luxury 2 as otherworldly field recordings are brought to life through the use of Rod's unique processing and layers of dream state synths. A perfectly worked groove seems to come out of nowhere and glides gently under the atmosphere; again subtle percussion ties everything together seamlessly. The master of Deep Techno strikes again with nothing short of 2 elegant works that typify his skills as a producer.

More

Prior to the release of Deepchord’s 3rd full length on Soma, we are pleased to deliver yet another exclusive, limited edition picture disc in the form of 3 track ambient piece, “De Wallen”. This specially crafted EP is strictly limited to one vinyl only run and features photography by Rod Modell himself. De Wallen's layers of deep, swirling, metaphysical atmosphere and processed recordings of the area that it is named after, provide a sonic-photograph of Amsterdam's red-light district at 3am. Possibly the only soundtrack ever composed for this area. Otherworldly, and charged with a deep frenetic energy, this music presents an inter-dimensional portal into darker realms. Electromagnetic radiation etched into a piece of vinyl for phonographic dispersion. This is a unusual piece of "sound art" rather than merely electronic music, and has little (or nothing) to do with dance music's frivolity. Side B of this release reflects De Wallen's "sound art" aesthetic. "Prayer Wheel" is a generative-music life form (inspired by the night-sky and seaside) that expands, contracts, and mutates like a living organism. "Range Lights" is a luminescent sonic artefact, recently unearthed after years of being buried. The analog warmth and imperfections inherent of the vinyl format further the surreal nature of these artworks in a way that no digital format could reproduce. A new paradigm in "sound art". Immersive, shimmering, electro-mystical atmospheres that the adventurous sonic-traveller will find themselves often revisiting.
More

The inspirational Rod Modell aka Deepchord follows up Sommer, his second album on Soma, with two exclusive tracks perfectly laid down in only the way he can, giving us 'Tonality of Night'. Both tracks clock in over the 10 minute mark as Deepchord takes us on yet another journey through the unfathomable depths of his unmistakable production. Spiral 1 floats in gently as deep subs and kicks punch through the delicate ambiance Deepchord creates. Perfectly laid chords echo atop a gentle plain of dream like synth work, the track constantly punctuated with the lightest on percussion, always enough to keep the track moving in the right direction. Deepchord strives to create an ebb and flow, taking the listener with him on a journey and this opening track does so with total precision. Spiral 2 opens with much more ethereal tones eventually hitting with a deep kick designed to bring you back to Earth with a bang. High hats flutter, allowing your descent into the track to seem almost like falling into a deep sleep. The track then opens gradually, percussion pulsing at the right moments as the vibe created by his soundscapes washes over you. Not much out there is made with such soul and passion and with every listen to Deepchords music, you gain a sense of his mood whilst being able to get lost in whatever or wherever you may be…

More

2024 repress

Prana glistens into existence as ethereal pads drift by, giving way to a subtle, almost deep house beat that pulses nicely, backed by tribal-esq percussion. A gently staccato synth pattern flutters in and out toying with the idea of techno ever so slightly yet keeping well within the realms of his usual sound. Simplicity is the key in this track and Deepchord allows it to evolve slowly and he toys with sweeps of reverb and FX giving the track a lush, organic sound.

Tantra gives off a tougher vibe than it predecessor. Gently layered, deeper, edgier synths open the track as percussive elements, swathed in FX form the basis of the groove. Bolstered by a typical Deepchord dubbed out bass line this track once again evolves perfectly almost without the listener noticing the subtle changes that give Tantra a deep and emotive flow.

Never one to sit still and be pigeon holed into a genre, Deepchord easily turns his hand once again a brings two beautifully crafted tracks in his own inimitable style More

Tracklisting
A1 Slam - Exhibit 1
A2 Slam - Exhibit 2
B1 Slam - Exhibit 3
B2 Slam - Exhibit (BOHM & The Unborn Child remix)

Sales Note
A special release featuring the winners of the recent remix competition by Slam for the 'Exhibit' series.
High quality interpretations of Slam's hypnotic 'Exhibit 1' come courtesy of BOHM & The Unborn Child, Lezther, LUMERTZ and Franco Rossi.
Mastered By Conor Dalton @ Glowcast Mastering More

Tracklisting:
A1 Lewis Fautzi - Density
A2 Lewis Fautzi - Severity
B1 Lewis Fautzi - Malleability
B2 Lewis Fautzi - Tension

Sales Note
Portuguese techno figurehead Lewis Fautzi returns to Soma with the Properties Specifications EP. A mainstay on the Soma roster for 10 years, Fautzi has progressed through the global ranks to become one of techno's most recognisable acts. A consistent and competent producer, Fautzi's sound has evolved through the years yet remains modern and as on point as ever.

Density is a visceral yet hypnotic opener, its subtle drive is pushed via its instantly building, electric synth hook. Severity continues down a dark and hypnotic patch as polyrhythmic percussion guides a pulsating and incessant groove. Malleability once again displays Fautzi's control over specific elements, each grafting over the other to create new depths of rhythm throughout the track. Tension closes out the EP but does so in emphatic form. The most driving track on the release, thumping low end and crisp percussion are backed with twisted synths and dark atmospheres that swell throughout. More

full colour sleeve

2023 repress

Tracklisting:
A1 Deepchord - Shale
A2 Deepchord - Lateral
B1 Deepchord - Mapping
B2 Deepchord - Ricochet

Release Note:
Detroit's deep techno master, Deepchord, makes a more than welcome return to Soma after 5 years. With a brand new album dropping, Rod Modell delves deep into his ethereal sonic world to bring you 'Functional Extraits 1'. The first single to be taken from the forthcoming album. Built in a way that only Deepchord can, he transports you to different realms with lush soundscapes and perfectly processed electro-acoustics giving you an insight to the mind of the unique artist.

Shale glides across a field of electo-static noise, guided gently by cisps, fleeting percussion and gently warping synths. Lateral begins awash with waves of sound and glistening dub stabs while rolling beats acts as the heart beat of the track with a building intensity adding a sense of urgency. The uplifting yet dystopian sounds of Mapping spiral into existence urging you down the rabbit hole as more classic techno percussion manoeuvres this track on it's journey. Modell seeking out his roots as yet more traditional dub techno prevails via the final track, Ricochet. Pumping kicks and sub set to a perfect pace and ambience is a perfect, contemporary nod to the time honoured Deepchord sound. More

Tracklisting:
A1 Deepchord - Fluorescence
A2 Deepchord - Glyphs
B1 Deepchord - Orbitals
B2 Deepchord - Leafiness

Sales Note
- 2023 repress - More

Tracklisting:
A1 Setaoc Mass - Time
A2 Setaoc Mass - Bluebells
B1 Setaoc Mass - Fortnight
B2 Setaoc Mass - Chaos

Release Note:
- 2022 repress -

Mancunian maestro Setaoc Mass returns for his second outing on Soma with the Fortnight EP. Drenched in his typical hard hitting, meticulously produced style, Sam's latest Soma 12" has him at the top of his game with 4 top quality tracks + a special bonus track for the digital EP.
"Time" opens the EP with a particularly hypnotic sound and a definite driving pace as swelling and pulsing background atmospheres give this a quite aggressive backbone. "Bluebells" is yet another dance floor rocking track that hits the ground running right from the start. Razor sharp poly-rhythmic structures keep the track interesting while intense percussive workouts provide the power. Title track "Fortnight" delves deeper whilst still remaining true to Sam's direct and tough sound; don't let this deeper side fool you, all the hallmarks of a proper banger remain intact! "Chaos" closes out things with a more groove laden and emotive tone as shuffling percussive elements funk things up before subtle synths work their way in giving the track a more melodic feel than the previous. Digital Bonus, "Necessary Evil", is a straight up, no nonsense dance floor workout. More

Tracklisting:
A1 Nitzer Ebb - Join In The Chant (Slam Rework)
A2 Silent Breed - Sync In (Slam Re-edit)
B1 Terence Fixmer - Body Pressure (Slam Re-edit)
B2 Hertz - Recreate (Slam Rework)

Release Note:
- 2022 repress -

Slam rework Nitzer Ebb, Silent Breed, DK8, Terrence Fixmer and more for the final installment of their Archive Edit series.
Soma label heads Slam curate a specially designed package of tracks to finalize their Archive Edit project that sees them delve deep into Techno's past to bring some of the genre's best tracks into the modern age. The Archive Edit project started as a way for Slam to showcase and share the many different edits that had made their way into their DJ sets over the last few years. The pairing of Stuart McMillan & Orde Meikle have both raided their extensive collections, picking out tracks that have defined countless sets over their career. Tracks from luminaries such as Nitzer Ebb, Thomas P Heckmann (as Silent Breed), Damon Wild & Terrence Fixmer have been re-edited alongside some of Slam's own unreleased material, showcasing the duo's current sound; one that naturally evolves, matures and demonstrates why the duo have been at the forefront of the global scene since its inception.
This unique vinyl single release selects 4 of the best from the full Archive Edits LP available digitally from Nov 29th. More

Repress

Tracklisting:
A1 Phara - The Great Attractor
A2 Phara - The Great Attractor (Setaoc Mass remix)
B1 Phara - Mission 3, 2, 1
B2 Phara - The Andromeda Manoeuvre

Release Note:
Belgian based Phara makes a huge debut on Soma with The Great Attractor EP. With his fast, raw and energetic sound, Phara's ascent has been quick off the mark and this latest release has the young producer stretch himself farther with cleverly produced and exciting tracks. UK Techno don, Setaoc Mass backs up this already masterful EP, lending his own prowess to the title track.

Great Attractor leans on 90s, spaced out techno vibes as fast paced 909s fire against the backdrop of rapid, modulating synths. Setaoc Mass' remix comes up next, offering a deeper more restrained affair. However, as usual, the adept nature of his productions deal out devastating effect. On the flip, Mission 3,2,1 delves into dubbed out synth work whilst retaining drive and groove. Further dub explorations are found on closing track The Andromeda Manoeuvre. Spacial synth work and atmospherics ebb and flow as Phara's hard hitting and relentless percussive work deals the final blow.

Mastered By Conor Dalton @ Glowcast Mastering More

Tracklisting:
A1 Deepchord - Darkness Falls
A2 Deepchord - Transit Systems
B1 Deepchord - Strangers
B2 Deepchord - Panacast
C1 Deepchord - Cloudsat
C2 Deepchord - Pressure
D1 Deepchord - Ebb and Flow
D2 Deepchord - Memories

Release Note:
Soma proudly presents Functional Designs, the latest collection of nocturnal environments from Deepchord, marking his first full length album release on Soma in 5 years. The enigmatic Detroit based producer once again transports us into his sonic realm via night-walks through numerous cities before being transmuted into aural excellence through field recordings, holographic synth tones, cosmic sounds and the hiss of electric wires. All swimming around in filtered 4/4 beats and subterranean basslines. The album is a perfect example of electroacoustic techno transmitted from undisclosed locations, the amalgamation of swirling tapestries of sound, deeper than night and lifeforms moving around underneath the grid.

The album glistens into existence with the beatless Amber breathing life into the project before the eventide of Darkness Falls offers a beautifully subtle and contemplative atmosphere. The guiding light of Transit Systems continues to offer up melancholy with echoing percussion and drifting soundscapes. The highly processed acoustics of Strangers brings a sense of intrigue to the album's journey as Modell works in the most percussive track so far. Panacast is exotic dub techno at it's finest, with warping and perfectly crafted synth work building gently over the top of sub heavy beats, glued perfectly together by the hiss of the collected found-sounds. In a slight rise in tempo, Cloudsat, makes a journey skyward, collecting mood and feelings from high altitude with its emotive synth work. The reverberating halls of Pressure again work as a testament to Modell's sonic crafting - honing in on specific artefacts from his field recordings, imbuing them with deeper purpose. The perfectly titled Ebb and Flow drifts effortlessly on a tide of evolving, blissful sound waves crashing to shore as each one overlaps the other. Beginning the descent into the final part of the album, you begin your ride across a cosmic plain, lit by the glistening and ethereal Sun. The meditative Memories opens a conduit to other realms as the album closes out with the elysian melodies of Drassanes.

Deepchord once again proves he is a producer like no other. A true sonic sculptor who uses his real world experience to create vast, unparalleled soundscapes that captivate and enthral the listener. More

-repress-

Tracklisting:
A1 Slam & Amelie Lens - Uncontrolled
A2 Slam & Amelie Lens - Clarity
B1 Slam & Amelie Lens - Construct

Release Note:
Slam collaborate with Hector Oaks, 999999999, Keith Tucker (AKA Optic Nerve), Amelie Lens, Rebekah, AnD & Perc, for a new five part Soma Records project LOUDER THAN CHAOS.

On March 2020 the world was abruptly thrown into collective disarray. The Pandemic stopped almost everything dead in its tracks. No social gatherings, self isolation, a sense of panic and bewilderment prevailed. An industry that had become so dependent on human connection and unity, was suddenly switched off and put on pause for an unforeseeable future.

It was in this climate that The Louder Than Chaos project was born, facilitated by Soma Records head honchos and techno protagonists Slam. A collaborative project with friends, colleagues and contemporaries normally only seen at airports, or events, now brought together under a completely different set of circumstances, allowing for a purposeful connection in a time of disconnect. The focus of the project is built on a powerful mutual participation, remotely constructed over time and fully intended for holding court on peak time dance floors when they inevitably return. That time has now finally come.

The Louder Than Chaos project is a series of 5 releases, on 12 vinyl" & Digital, to be released monthly via Soma Records. Featuring collaborations between Slam & Hector Oaks, Slam & 999999999 Slam & Keith Tucker (AKA Optic Nerve), + more to follow.

Each EP features specially commissioned artwork from German based artist PPP Panic, which consolidates into one constructive piece over the 5 releases. More

Tracklisting:
A1 Nørbak - His Reign Is Over
A2 Nørbak - His Reign Is Over (Reeko remix)
B1 Nørbak - Pragmatically Speaking
B2 Nørbak - There's No Lesson More

Tracklisting:
A1 Slam & Perc - Carbon Black
B1 Slam & Perc - Schism

Release Note:
Slam collaborate with Hector Oaks, 999999999, Keith Tucker (AKA Optic Nerve), Amelie Lens, Rebekah, AnD & Perc, for a new five part Soma Records project LOUDER THAN CHAOS.

On March 2020 the world was abruptly thrown into collective disarray. The Pandemic stopped almost everything dead in its tracks. No social gatherings, self isolation, a sense of panic and bewilderment prevailed. An industry that had become so dependent on human connection and unity, was suddenly switched off and put on pause for an unforeseeable future.

It was in this climate that The Louder Than Chaos project was born, facilitated by Soma Records head honchos and techno protagonists Slam. A collaborative project with friends, colleagues and contemporaries normally only seen at airports, or events, now brought together under a completely different set of circumstances, allowing for a purposeful connection in a time of disconnect. The focus of the project is built on a powerful mutual participation, remotely constructed over time and fully intended for holding court on peak time dance floors when they inevitably return. That time has now finally come.

The Louder Than Chaos project is a series of 5 releases, on 12 vinyl" & Digital, to be released monthly via Soma Records. Featuring collaborations between Slam & Hector Oaks, Slam & 999999999 Slam & Keith Tucker (AKA Optic Nerve), + more to follow.

Each EP features specially commissioned artwork from German based artist PPP Panic, which consolidates into one constructive piece over the 5 releases. More

Tracklisting:
A1 Slam & Rebekah - Believe In The Night
B1 Slam & Rebekah - Erratic Movements

Release Note:
Slam collaborate with Hector Oaks, 999999999, Keith Tucker (AKA Optic Nerve), Amelie Lens, Rebekah, AnD & Perc, for a new five part Soma Records project LOUDER THAN CHAOS.

On March 2020 the world was abruptly thrown into collective disarray. The Pandemic stopped almost everything dead in its tracks. No social gatherings, self isolation, a sense of panic and bewilderment prevailed. An industry that had become so dependent on human connection and unity, was suddenly switched off and put on pause for an unforeseeable future.

It was in this climate that The Louder Than Chaos project was born, facilitated by Soma Records head honchos and techno protagonists Slam. A collaborative project with friends, colleagues and contemporaries normally only seen at airports, or events, now brought together under a completely different set of circumstances, allowing for a purposeful connection in a time of disconnect. The focus of the project is built on a powerful mutual participation, remotely constructed over time and fully intended for holding court on peak time dance floors when they inevitably return. That time has now finally come.

The Louder Than Chaos project is a series of 5 releases, on 12 vinyl" & Digital, to be released monthly via Soma Records. Featuring collaborations between Slam & Hector Oaks, Slam & 999999999 Slam & Keith Tucker (AKA Optic Nerve), + more to follow.

Each EP features specially commissioned artwork from German based artist PPP Panic, which consolidates into one constructive piece over the 5 releases. More

Tracklisting:
A1 Slam & AnD - Trident
B1 Slam & AnD - Circumvolve

Release Note:
Slam collaborate with Hector Oaks, 999999999, Keith Tucker (AKA Optic Nerve), Amelie Lens, Rebekah, AnD & Perc, for a new five part Soma Records project LOUDER THAN CHAOS.

On March 2020 the world was abruptly thrown into collective disarray. The Pandemic stopped almost everything dead in its tracks. No social gatherings, self isolation, a sense of panic and bewilderment prevailed. An industry that had become so dependent on human connection and unity, was suddenly switched off and put on pause for an unforeseeable future.

It was in this climate that The Louder Than Chaos project was born, facilitated by Soma Records head honchos and techno protagonists Slam. A collaborative project with friends, colleagues and contemporaries normally only seen at airports, or events, now brought together under a completely different set of circumstances, allowing for a purposeful connection in a time of disconnect. The focus of the project is built on a powerful mutual participation, remotely constructed over time and fully intended for holding court on peak time dance floors when they inevitably return. That time has now finally come.

The Louder Than Chaos project is a series of 5 releases, on 12 vinyl" & Digital, to be released monthly via Soma Records. Featuring collaborations between Slam & Hector Oaks, Slam & 999999999 Slam & Keith Tucker (AKA Optic Nerve), + more to follow.

Each EP features specially commissioned artwork from German based artist PPP Panic, which consolidates into one constructive piece over the 5 releases. More

Tracklist:
A1 Slam & 999999999 - Conveyer
A2 Slam & Héctor Oaks - Pathfinder
B1 Slam & Optic Nerve - Machine Conflict

Release Note:
Slam collaborate with Hector Oaks, 999999999, Keith Tucker (AKA Optic Nerve), Amelie Lens, Rebekah, AnD & Perc, for a new five part Soma Records project LOUDER THAN CHAOS.

On March 2020 the world was abruptly thrown into collective disarray. The Pandemic stopped almost everything dead in its tracks. No social gatherings, self isolation, a sense of panic and bewilderment prevailed. An industry that had become so dependent on human connection and unity, was suddenly switched off and put on pause for an unforeseeable future.

It was in this climate that The Louder Than Chaos project was born, facilitated by Soma Records head honchos and techno protagonists Slam. A collaborative project with friends, colleagues and contemporaries normally only seen at airports, or events, now brought together under a completely different set of circumstances, allowing for a purposeful connection in a time of disconnect. The focus of the project is built on a powerful mutual participation, remotely constructed over time and fully intended for holding court on peak time dance floors when they inevitably return. That time has now finally come.

The Louder Than Chaos project is a series of 5 releases, on 12 vinyl" & Digital, to be released monthly via Soma Records. Featuring collaborations between Slam & Hector Oaks, Slam & 999999999 Slam & Keith Tucker (AKA Optic Nerve), + more to follow.

Each EP features specially commissioned artwork from German based artist PPP Panic, which consolidates into one constructive piece over the 5 releases. More

Portuguese based Nørbak returns to Soma with his second single for the label, the Myelination EP. Nørbak is quickly making a name for himself in the global scene and has just completed his debut album to much critical acclaim. The young producer has built a wealth of knowledge on sound design and is clearly represented in his music which is deep and rich in sonic experiments whilst retaining dancefloor focus. This latest EP has Spanish techno maestro Oscar Mulero & fellow Portuguese talent Lewis Fautzi, deliver two fantastic remixes that perfectly compliment the originals.

Nørbak's "Myelination" starts the EP with driving percussive elements that propel the track from the opening. Swamped with light & ethereal FX, dark and droning sounds take the track down a ominous path. Lewis Fautzi steps up next with his remix of Myelination. With a more minimalistic interpretation he manages to continue the dark and direct momentum of the original. On the flip, Mirante rattle hards with steady and precise percussion, bolted together with heavy rolling kicks and sub and a perfectly muted rhythm throughout. Techno don Oscar Mulero closes the EP with his version of Mirante. He immediately ups the ante with driving 909 beats and huge atmospheric FX that guide the rhythms. Mulero always on point with his signature sound design and techno aesthetic More

Italian Techno maestro SLV returns to Soma with his biggest release yet, the Under Pressure EP. With a slew of hits + an album under his belt at Soma, SLV ramps up the pace with this latest release. Two thunderous, rave-infected tracks lead the charge with remixes from label heads Slam and veteran Thomas P. Heckmann.

Opening track Perpetual Slaughter rips through the speakers with riot inducing vocals tearing at the heart of this massive bomb. Phoenix Rising continues the hard hitting theme as pulsing synths drive continuously letting up only momentarily before thrashing drums explode through. Soma label bosses, Slam, drop a typically wild remix of Perpetual Slaughter working in their own interpretation of the original's synth hook, complete with a decisive percussive assault. Legendary Techno artist Thomas P Heckmann delivers a seriously funked up, 90s-esq version of Perpetual Slaughter. Manipulating his hardware and twisting the synths to give his typically authentic and renowned, body music sound.

Tracks 1,2 & 3 Mastered By Conor Dalton @ Glowcast Mastering. Track 4 Mastered By Thomas P. Heckmann More

Masked Techno assassin Buried Secrets returns to Soma with a massive new release featuring his signature hard and distorted Techno with the Destiny Defeated EP. With several Soma releases under his belt including 2020's huge "Of Lost Things EP", Buried Secrets continues his assault with this massive new EP.

Title track "Destiny Defeated" roars into life with relentless percussion and a ripping rave infected synth hook. "Vanishing Point" is a proper heads down, no nonsense affair - a little more subtle than the opening track but just as intensive. "Dream Stalker" heads into proper Hard Techno territory with thundering, pulsating low end as the hook opens into a more euphoric affair. "Land of The Lost" closes the EP with a huge flourish. A superbly crafted synth sequence loops and hypnotises as the drums workout batters you into submission. More

City To City: Johannesburg is the first in a new series of V/A releases which will shine a light on exciting producers from a different city for each edition. What better place to start than The City Of Gold, somewhere synonymous with deep and soulful house and whose scene and artists have finally begun to get global recognition despite the relative geographical isolation. Labels such as Kid Fonque’s Stay True Sounds have been an important platform for South African artists and who can deny the incredible journey of Black Coffee. Deep house really is a way of life for many young people growing up in often challenging conditions and it’s been exciting to see many becoming known outside of their own country and starting to gig internationally.

Here on the debut City To City we showcase 6 tracks from 6 different artists hailing from Johannesburg, relative newcomers rubbing shoulders with more established names. Kicking off the release we have one such producer who has been slowly but surely stamping his mark over the last 10 years: KaySoul. With output having appeared on labels such as Shall Not Fade, Dirt Crew, Lazy Days and Tribe KaySoul is definitely making waves with his soulful take on the South African deep sound. Icey Baby featuring Mr Beale keeps things raw and minimal, letting the vocal stay front and centre, a naivety and playfulness giving an almost demo-feel to the production.

Sculpturedmusic steps up next with Midnight Talk. Another SA artist who has earned his stripes with some huge tracks including Sad To Think which deservedly became a substantial hit, Sculpturedmusic’s contribution to the release keeps things deep, percussive and rolling with an African vocal sample backed up by pensive piano chords.

With just a handful of releases on his own Herbal Soundz label as well as the much lauded vinyl label Adeen, SizLeCaude is one of the exciting up and coming artists worthy of attention. Taking a classic early 00’s deep house approach on Far Apart he reminds us of the output Ben Watt’s Buzzin’ Fly sounding both timeless and contemporary with buckets of warmth and soul.

Flipping over we have Love (Kinda Thing) from Radic The Myth whose harmonically rich take on house music brings a floating yet punchy feel to the release.

Persie Botta joins forces with Jade Nickels on the next track entitled They Never Loved Us. The duo deliver a sublime slice of true Joburg-style deep house with lush layers of pads, reverb-soaked pads, snaking sub bass and a powerful, low slung groove.

Last but not least we close out the release with Thabang Baloyi who joins fresh from releases on established SA labels Just Move and Basement Art. Lost In goes in DEEP with a syncopated snare groove and simple, repeating vocal line. More

Louie Vega continues to expand the musical boundaries of house music with his unique ability to combine the essence of classic disco, soul and funk with the percussive energy that is the driving force of dancefloors worldwide. His new work is a second preview into the epic and forthcoming Expansions In The NYC album. This album will include selections that represent the many musical movements on which the House Music genre has evolved right up to the current time. Louie has a few special guests in mind to join him on the album as well, all of which will create unique collaborations that will launch the project into an area of worldwide interest. As one of the world’s longest independent dance labels, Nervous is well suited to present this momentous project. It’s often said that great talent is in the DNA, and that’s most certainly the case with the Vega family. The A side of this 12” is “How He Works,” a blast of gospel – laced dancefloor energy that includes a stellar featured co-production with Nico Vega. The track has been buzzing buzzing massively ever since Louie debuted it at one of his sold out Expansions In The NYC events in New York. The 12” features two dubs, and fans will have to wait for the album to get the full club version. The AA side include the peak hour gem “Can’t Slow Down” and the inspired “Vince Montana Tribute.” “Can’t Slow Down” shows Louie’s creative abilities at their best as he re-shapes a vocal from a Nervous Records classic house jam “Rushing” by Loni Clark, and with full approval and appreciation from the original producers Mood II Swing, re-creates something that will absolutely blow up dancefloors today. The “Vince Montana Tribute” (Louie Vega and Rick Wilhite from Detroit Rework) is a heartfelt and equally impactful production in which Louie demonstrates his appreciation for the disco sounds that he grew up on in the iconoc borough of Bronx, NYC. A1. Louie Vega Featuring Nico Vega – How He Works (Nico Funki Dub 2), A2. Louie Vega Featuring Nico Vega – How He Works (Nico Funki Dub 1), AA1. Louie Vega – Can’t Slow Down, AA2. Louie Vega – Vince Montana Tribute (Louie Vega & Rick Wilhite Rework)
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