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Code 6 - A1. C.O.D.E.S.
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Code 6 - B1. Quad I
3
Code 6 - B2. Quad II
4
Code 6 - B3. Quad III
Repress shipping in september!
1991 Timeless Classic is back on vinyl, first time reissue via the Orange Wedge label.
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1991 Timeless Classic is back on vinyl, first time reissue via the Orange Wedge label.
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More records from Orange Wedge
1
Paolo Mosca - Mantra
2
Code 90 - Operator
3
Sindaco vs Uovo - Ombra Silenziosa Redux
4
Luis Del Barrio - Smoke Comes Green
Our beloved Orange Wedge is back with the first volume of the Local Motion series. Selected by the label owner Code 90, a 4tracks EP courtesy of Paolo Mosca, Sindaco, Uovo and Luis Del Barrio.
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1
D.J. Caroline - A Brighter Tomorrow
2
D.J. Caroline - Dance Of Life
3
D.J. Caroline - Paint A Picture
4
D.J. Caroline - The Dub
5
D.J. Caroline - Dream Jazz
Vinyl Only – Official Reissue!
Trowback to 1991 with a mega timeless wax via Orange Wedge. Diamond Dimension E.P. is the perfect fusion of House, Techno and Trance rhythms. More
Trowback to 1991 with a mega timeless wax via Orange Wedge. Diamond Dimension E.P. is the perfect fusion of House, Techno and Trance rhythms. More
1
Major Problems - A1. Overdose (The Final Trip)
2
Major Problems - A2. Flashbacks (Version)
3
Major Problems - B1. The Rush (Freakout Mix)
4
Major Problems - B2. Paranoia (The Bad Trip)
Patagonia Wave series is back on the beloved Orange Wedge imprint. From the glorious collaboration of Joey Beltram, Lenny Dee and Ralphie Dee this is a masterpiece to have in your collection.
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1
Blunted Dummies - A1. House For All (Original Mix)
2
Blunted Dummies - A2. House For All (House 4 All Robots Mix)
3
Blunted Dummies - B1. House For All (Eddie Richard's Mix)
4
Blunted Dummies - B2. House For All (J. Acquaviva's Mix)
5
Blunted Dummies - B3. House For All (Ruby Fruit Jungle Mix)
First ever 12" reissue for this 90's anthem. 30 years after the original release on Definitive Recordings, "House For All" is the joy we still need to hear.
Now back with a vibing full cover co-produced with Basic Frame crew for their 5th anniversary. This release is dedicated to Elena Sole & Flavia Romana. More
Now back with a vibing full cover co-produced with Basic Frame crew for their 5th anniversary. This release is dedicated to Elena Sole & Flavia Romana. More
1
A.T. - 1996 Shoots
2
A.T. - 2023 Revamp
From past to present of Italian hero Ivan Iacobucci (with his well known alias A.T.). This 2 tracks Ep is a mix of acid and house melodies with tumbling drums and huge basslines. After more than 25 years from "1996 Shoots" this sound is more alive than ever and the unreleased "2023 Revamp" is the perfect follow up of this legacy.
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Rubel - Forró Violento (Instrumental)
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Rubel - Grão De Areia
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Rubel - Não Vou Reclamar De Deus
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Rubel - Toda Beleza
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Rubel - Put@ria!
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Rubel - Rubelía
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Rubel - As Palavras
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Rubel - Forró Violento
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Rubel - Torto Arad
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Rubel - Lua De Garrafa
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Rubel - Na Mão Do Palhaço
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Rubel - Doutor Albieri
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Rubel - Samba De Amanda E Té
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Rubel - Amor De Mãe
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Rubel - Vinheta As Palavras II
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Rubel - Assum Preto
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Rubel - Forró No Escuro
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Rubel - Toda Beleza (Pelos Loirinhos)
Released on 2xLP cut at 45RPM in gatefold sleeve with 6 panel fold-out poster.
Some albums are game-changers in a genre. Take OutKast's Speakerboxxx / The Love Below or Primal Scream's Screamadelica, they observe, study, and then flip what an album can mean to a genre or moment in time.
From the very first listen of Rubel’s Latin Grammy-nominated third album As Palavras, Vol. 1 & 2, you can feel its transformative force for the MPB genre. Here we see one of Rio’s brightest stars, fusing the contemporary with the classic, soaking up the richness of Brazil’s musical heritage. The result is a marauding 20-track epic, incorporating traditional styles such as forró, MPB, pagode and samba with modern baile funk, rasteirinha and hip-hop.
The album exudes a sense of freedom and creativity, playfully and provocatively juggling the familiar with the forward-thinking. The tracks are divided across two records, navigating feelings of love, heartbreak and discovery, whilst balancing themes of violence, passion, irony and affection. Collaborating with some of the country’s most esteemed artists such as Gabriel do Borel, Liniker, Luedji Luna, Tim Bernardes and Ana Caetano, Rubel takes this fusion of styles, subjects and flavours to the global stage.
The grand, forró-blending, choral opener, ‘Forró Violento (Instrumental)’ sets the tone for the album, with references and links between tradition and modernity everywhere to be seen. From the Ana Frango Elétrico produced, funk flexing, samba-soul brilliance of ‘Não Vou Reclamar de Deus’, to the album’s title cut ‘As Palavras’, in collaboration with Tim Bernardes, that melds MPB influences with electronic elements and hip-hop touches.
Across both sides of the album, Rubel’s story-telling gift is given space to shine. ‘Torto Arado’ featuring Liniker and Luedji Luna, beautifully references the racial injustice, tragedy, hope and ambition found in one the most celebrated Brazilian novels of recent times by Itamar Vieira Júnior. Elsewhere, ‘Na Mão do Palhaço’ manifests a satirical march about a suicidal conservative middle-aged man, who is rescued by the miracle of the carnival.
At times the album is gentle and intimate with tracks like ‘Toda Beleza’ featuring Bala Desejo, or the ode to friendship ‘Lua de Garrafa’, composed with the legendary Milton Nascimento. At others, the grooves hit harder, with sounds from the favelas laced within. ‘Put@ria!’, explores the universe of baile funk, with BK’ and MC Carol trading off on the mic, as ‘Rubelía’ moves between reggaeton, funk, and hip hop. The latter is a tribute to a key influence of the album, Spanish star Rosalía and her parallel mix of current with classic.
Ultimately though the beauty of this album lies in its concept. In the midst of a country divided, ‘As Palavras Vol. 1 & 2’ sets out to bring together genres and generations, grounded in rhythms and words that have helped define Brazil through the ages. More
Some albums are game-changers in a genre. Take OutKast's Speakerboxxx / The Love Below or Primal Scream's Screamadelica, they observe, study, and then flip what an album can mean to a genre or moment in time.
From the very first listen of Rubel’s Latin Grammy-nominated third album As Palavras, Vol. 1 & 2, you can feel its transformative force for the MPB genre. Here we see one of Rio’s brightest stars, fusing the contemporary with the classic, soaking up the richness of Brazil’s musical heritage. The result is a marauding 20-track epic, incorporating traditional styles such as forró, MPB, pagode and samba with modern baile funk, rasteirinha and hip-hop.
The album exudes a sense of freedom and creativity, playfully and provocatively juggling the familiar with the forward-thinking. The tracks are divided across two records, navigating feelings of love, heartbreak and discovery, whilst balancing themes of violence, passion, irony and affection. Collaborating with some of the country’s most esteemed artists such as Gabriel do Borel, Liniker, Luedji Luna, Tim Bernardes and Ana Caetano, Rubel takes this fusion of styles, subjects and flavours to the global stage.
The grand, forró-blending, choral opener, ‘Forró Violento (Instrumental)’ sets the tone for the album, with references and links between tradition and modernity everywhere to be seen. From the Ana Frango Elétrico produced, funk flexing, samba-soul brilliance of ‘Não Vou Reclamar de Deus’, to the album’s title cut ‘As Palavras’, in collaboration with Tim Bernardes, that melds MPB influences with electronic elements and hip-hop touches.
Across both sides of the album, Rubel’s story-telling gift is given space to shine. ‘Torto Arado’ featuring Liniker and Luedji Luna, beautifully references the racial injustice, tragedy, hope and ambition found in one the most celebrated Brazilian novels of recent times by Itamar Vieira Júnior. Elsewhere, ‘Na Mão do Palhaço’ manifests a satirical march about a suicidal conservative middle-aged man, who is rescued by the miracle of the carnival.
At times the album is gentle and intimate with tracks like ‘Toda Beleza’ featuring Bala Desejo, or the ode to friendship ‘Lua de Garrafa’, composed with the legendary Milton Nascimento. At others, the grooves hit harder, with sounds from the favelas laced within. ‘Put@ria!’, explores the universe of baile funk, with BK’ and MC Carol trading off on the mic, as ‘Rubelía’ moves between reggaeton, funk, and hip hop. The latter is a tribute to a key influence of the album, Spanish star Rosalía and her parallel mix of current with classic.
Ultimately though the beauty of this album lies in its concept. In the midst of a country divided, ‘As Palavras Vol. 1 & 2’ sets out to bring together genres and generations, grounded in rhythms and words that have helped define Brazil through the ages. More
1
Donato Dozzy & Tin Man - Test 7
2
Donato Dozzy & Tin Man - Test 3 (Vocal Version)
3
Donato Dozzy & Tin Man - Test 2
4
Donato Dozzy & Tin Man - Test 3
Tracklist
A1. Test 7
A2. Test 3 (Vocal Version)
B1. Test 2
B2. Test 3
The now 10 year old Acid Test 09 sees a special 10th Anniversary Edition repress with a new vocal mix of track “Test 3”.
The original EP saw acid nomad Tin Man team up with techno dreamweaver Donato Dozzy for three slices of deep acid and dubby, bleepy ambient.
In this special 10 Year Anniversary Edition Test 3” comes with a new vocal mix and it’s a welcome return to the mic for Tin Man. Perfectly-placed words sit among chiming bells and are layered deep into the echoes, almost like the synths themselves are speaking.
Acid Test 09 proved to be pairing in 303 paradise, but the results outclassed even Dozzy and Tin Man’s special partnership - they created simply a timeless signal that could broadcast through space ad infinitum.
Mastered and recut by Rashad.
More
A1. Test 7
A2. Test 3 (Vocal Version)
B1. Test 2
B2. Test 3
The now 10 year old Acid Test 09 sees a special 10th Anniversary Edition repress with a new vocal mix of track “Test 3”.
The original EP saw acid nomad Tin Man team up with techno dreamweaver Donato Dozzy for three slices of deep acid and dubby, bleepy ambient.
In this special 10 Year Anniversary Edition Test 3” comes with a new vocal mix and it’s a welcome return to the mic for Tin Man. Perfectly-placed words sit among chiming bells and are layered deep into the echoes, almost like the synths themselves are speaking.
Acid Test 09 proved to be pairing in 303 paradise, but the results outclassed even Dozzy and Tin Man’s special partnership - they created simply a timeless signal that could broadcast through space ad infinitum.
Mastered and recut by Rashad.
More
1
Kosh - Enslaved (Vox Mix)
2
Kosh - Enslaved (Bonus Beats)
3
Kosh - Supernova
4
Kosh - Above & Beyond
Kosh continues to move at his own pace with his label Convergence. Musically, that’s fast, but output wise, careful and considered, with over a year or more apart between each installment. That’s because creating complex worlds within worlds, which the Moroccan artist has a knack for, certainly takes time. Now a trifecta of releases in, the Enslaved EP serves as his most fine-tuned and liberated project for the label yet.
On the title track, split between a vocal mix and bonus beat version, Kosh delivers a cosmic and introspective electro demonstration at its core, with flares of psychedelic and trance inducing sonic fusions. Its lyrical content is trademark Kosh, with its cautiously optimistic reflections on the world intuitively tapping into the current zeitgeist, yet through a universal futurist lens, leaving the listener with a sentiment that’s timeless and expansive.
The flip side sees the filtered house foundation of “Supernova” burst into scorching Detroit style techno stabs before the EP enters into uncharted territory with the interplanetary escape soundtrack on acid that is “Above & Beyond.” More
On the title track, split between a vocal mix and bonus beat version, Kosh delivers a cosmic and introspective electro demonstration at its core, with flares of psychedelic and trance inducing sonic fusions. Its lyrical content is trademark Kosh, with its cautiously optimistic reflections on the world intuitively tapping into the current zeitgeist, yet through a universal futurist lens, leaving the listener with a sentiment that’s timeless and expansive.
The flip side sees the filtered house foundation of “Supernova” burst into scorching Detroit style techno stabs before the EP enters into uncharted territory with the interplanetary escape soundtrack on acid that is “Above & Beyond.” More
Cat-No:PPU-108
Release-Date:22.03.2024
Configuration:12"
Cat-No:PPU-108
Release-Date:22.03.2024
Configuration:12"
1
TAMTAM - Doors
2
TAMTAM - Go Down The Mountain
3
TAMTAM - Ramble In The Rainbow
4
TAMTAM - Nue
5
TAMTAM - Distant Look
Coloured Vinyl Repress!
A four-piece band based in Tokyo.
Initially playing reggae/dub music, the band gradually developed into an innovative fusion of diverse musical influences, such as jazz, soul, psyche pop, new age, and exotica. A sound is based on groove and euphoria, with nostalgic melodies.
They have performed at iconic events in Japan such as Fuji Rock Festival, and also have been looking overseas since they performed in Canada(Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver) in 2019. The new EP "Ramble In The Rainbow"(2024) is their first international release on the US label Peoples Potential Unlimited.
The work shows their musical maturity, drawing inspiration from Sun Ra, Lee "Scratch" Perry, and Yasuaki Shimizu. More
A four-piece band based in Tokyo.
Initially playing reggae/dub music, the band gradually developed into an innovative fusion of diverse musical influences, such as jazz, soul, psyche pop, new age, and exotica. A sound is based on groove and euphoria, with nostalgic melodies.
They have performed at iconic events in Japan such as Fuji Rock Festival, and also have been looking overseas since they performed in Canada(Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver) in 2019. The new EP "Ramble In The Rainbow"(2024) is their first international release on the US label Peoples Potential Unlimited.
The work shows their musical maturity, drawing inspiration from Sun Ra, Lee "Scratch" Perry, and Yasuaki Shimizu. More
1
Tommy Musto - Love Is Needed
2
Tommy Musto - Holdin' On
3
Tommy Musto - Baby's Right
4
Tommy Musto - Keep It Movin'
TMD Volume 1 kicks off with 4 tracks of sure fire, rare as …. NYC tracks from THEEEEEE golden era of NYC house that saw David doing his Red Zone thang, along with Simonelli, Frankie and all the other leading the way.
These 4 to the floor house dub gems are taken from the legendary Tommy Musto’s DAT vaults, remastered just for you.
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These 4 to the floor house dub gems are taken from the legendary Tommy Musto’s DAT vaults, remastered just for you.
More
1
Skee Mask - Cerroverb
2
Skee Mask - Session Add
3
Skee Mask - Rev8617
4
Skee Mask - 50 Euro To Break Boost
5
Skee Mask - Via Sub Mids
6
Skee Mask - Soundboy Ext.
7
Skee Mask - Dial 274
8
Skee Mask - VLI
9
Skee Mask - Flyby VFR
10
Skee Mask - Muk FM
11
Skee Mask - Kozmic Flush
12
Skee Mask - Calimance (Delay Mix)
Repress coming soon!
Skee Mask’s endless search and fascination for fresh music, weed and burgers channeled into his own vision of sound. Enjoy the ride through his second album, a detailed experimental universe of a young dedicated hustler.
More
Skee Mask’s endless search and fascination for fresh music, weed and burgers channeled into his own vision of sound. Enjoy the ride through his second album, a detailed experimental universe of a young dedicated hustler.
More
1
Kapote - The Party (Extended Version)
2
Kapote - The See Me (Extended Version)
3
Kapote - The Come On (Extended Version)
4
Kapote - The Slide
Tracklist 12":
A1) The Party (Extended Version)
A2) The See Me (Extended Version)
B1) The Come On (Extended Version)
B2) The Slide
A new Toy Tonics EP! By label boss Kapote!
4 tracks for the dancefloor inspired by Italo Disco, New Wave Funk and NYC 90ies House. A perfect sound for the new Y2K vibes on 2024 dancefloors.
A new Kapote release is a rare thing. Although he is a musician and producer in the first place he rarely releases music. Why? Because the last years he was busy djing every weekend around the world (as a regular at clubs like Berlin’s Panorama Bar and London’s Phonox but also Festivals like Melt or Kala) and creating the Toy Tonics madness with his label friends. The Berlin based label that is the home base for 15 international artists (Cody Currie, Coeo, Gee Lane, Athlete Whippet, Baby‘s Berserk, Stump Valley…) became THE brand for a colorful and diverse, innovative and ‘organic’ funk oriented post - digital dance music.
Kapote and his friends release music that connects analogue and band vibes with digital production in a very fresh and unique way. Influenced by European underground disco and American house as well as afro beats, new wave and soulful Electronica.
But he and his label also have achieved a great reputation for working with some of the hottest names in Berlin graphic design and art to release the limited edition Toy Tonics Shirts, the label own TT Pocket Poster Magazine, posters and organizing exhibitions and visual shows.
Kapote aka Mathias Modica was and his 3 members TT krew were busy building all this.
Including also the Toy Tonics Jams. The label parties that started in an illegal venue in Berlin 2020 and exploded in 2023. With more than 120 TT events all over Europe. Where the label represents his very own vison of sound, vibe and style. Kapote organized all this with his krew. And it looks like 2024 will be even busier. With Toy Tonics Events at clubs but also museums (Palais de Tokio/ Paris, Milano Design Festjval) or Kapote & Toy Tonics Crew playing with Kaytranada and Peggy Gou at Sonar Festival.
In case you missed the last production works of Kapote check out his album ‘What it is’. Originally relased 2019. Re-released with new songs 2023. Or some of the 5 EPs he did on Toy Tonics in the last 8 years.
In case you don’t know his work under the name of Munk on his former label Gomma records (RIP) check it out. Kapote aka Munk co- produced the first 2 albums of Danish band WhoMadeWho, NYC art freak The Rammellzee, disco albums for Peaches and Nancy Whang of LCD Soundsystem, singles with DJ Chloe and many others.
(Words by Clara de Vernies)
More
A1) The Party (Extended Version)
A2) The See Me (Extended Version)
B1) The Come On (Extended Version)
B2) The Slide
A new Toy Tonics EP! By label boss Kapote!
4 tracks for the dancefloor inspired by Italo Disco, New Wave Funk and NYC 90ies House. A perfect sound for the new Y2K vibes on 2024 dancefloors.
A new Kapote release is a rare thing. Although he is a musician and producer in the first place he rarely releases music. Why? Because the last years he was busy djing every weekend around the world (as a regular at clubs like Berlin’s Panorama Bar and London’s Phonox but also Festivals like Melt or Kala) and creating the Toy Tonics madness with his label friends. The Berlin based label that is the home base for 15 international artists (Cody Currie, Coeo, Gee Lane, Athlete Whippet, Baby‘s Berserk, Stump Valley…) became THE brand for a colorful and diverse, innovative and ‘organic’ funk oriented post - digital dance music.
Kapote and his friends release music that connects analogue and band vibes with digital production in a very fresh and unique way. Influenced by European underground disco and American house as well as afro beats, new wave and soulful Electronica.
But he and his label also have achieved a great reputation for working with some of the hottest names in Berlin graphic design and art to release the limited edition Toy Tonics Shirts, the label own TT Pocket Poster Magazine, posters and organizing exhibitions and visual shows.
Kapote aka Mathias Modica was and his 3 members TT krew were busy building all this.
Including also the Toy Tonics Jams. The label parties that started in an illegal venue in Berlin 2020 and exploded in 2023. With more than 120 TT events all over Europe. Where the label represents his very own vison of sound, vibe and style. Kapote organized all this with his krew. And it looks like 2024 will be even busier. With Toy Tonics Events at clubs but also museums (Palais de Tokio/ Paris, Milano Design Festjval) or Kapote & Toy Tonics Crew playing with Kaytranada and Peggy Gou at Sonar Festival.
In case you missed the last production works of Kapote check out his album ‘What it is’. Originally relased 2019. Re-released with new songs 2023. Or some of the 5 EPs he did on Toy Tonics in the last 8 years.
In case you don’t know his work under the name of Munk on his former label Gomma records (RIP) check it out. Kapote aka Munk co- produced the first 2 albums of Danish band WhoMadeWho, NYC art freak The Rammellzee, disco albums for Peaches and Nancy Whang of LCD Soundsystem, singles with DJ Chloe and many others.
(Words by Clara de Vernies)
More
1
World, Sky & Universes (Ron Trent) - The Answer (Extended Mix)
2
World, Sky & Universes (Ron Trent) - The Answer (Brooklyn World Mix Instrumental)
Only One Music proudly presents another classic release by the Master Ron Trent! This time it's the former Prescription 5018 from 1999 called "The Answer". The re-issue contains on the b side for the first time the unlereased Brookly World Mix Instrumental in extended version!
More
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The Source Experience - Throwback
2
The Source Experience - Acid Crack
3
The Source Experience - Far Out
Swedens #1 techno legend The Source Experience aka Robert Leiner delivers this disturbingly fat acid techno 12" on Borft that gets into your ears and brain like a locomotive straight from the rave days. On the A-side a crushing stripped down funky repetitive acid stonker that will spank old and young ravers like they were one big ass. B1 continues in a similar fashion but with a almost electro-ish backbeat instead of straight 4/4 and strong hints of classic EBM in the bassline and percussions. The hairs on my arms were standing up at this point. B2 is a weird surprise ending with a downtempo, strangely harmonic, melodic and almost romantic track which somehow reminds me of the Frak classic "Uttoz gives a song". If you are into Acid in any form this 12" is a no brainer, a must have, a future classic. And make sure you have doubles so you can mix together A and B1 and extend them into eternity. 2024-01-18 Joakim Cosmo
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1
Space Program - Scientific Side
2
Space Program - Intricated Soundscape
3
Space Program - Humans To Space
4
Space Program - Obsessive
Tracklisting
A1 Space Program - Scientific Side
A2 Space Program - Intricated Soundscape
B1 Space Program - Humans To Space
B2 Space Program - Obsessive
Sales Note
Lewis Fautzi's new alias, Space Program, debuts in the scene with a deep dive into the edge of his creative and artistic mind, where new visions and ideas have been boiling for so long. A futuristic and spacial sound, emerges from psychedelic soundscapes and places the audience in an expedition to unexplored galaxies and alternate realities.
Scientific Side EP is the first outcome of years and years of methodic experiences in his studio and awakens a profound sense of vitality that goes beyond the basic comprehension of music. More
A1 Space Program - Scientific Side
A2 Space Program - Intricated Soundscape
B1 Space Program - Humans To Space
B2 Space Program - Obsessive
Sales Note
Lewis Fautzi's new alias, Space Program, debuts in the scene with a deep dive into the edge of his creative and artistic mind, where new visions and ideas have been boiling for so long. A futuristic and spacial sound, emerges from psychedelic soundscapes and places the audience in an expedition to unexplored galaxies and alternate realities.
Scientific Side EP is the first outcome of years and years of methodic experiences in his studio and awakens a profound sense of vitality that goes beyond the basic comprehension of music. More
Label:Be With Records
Cat-No:bewith157lp
Release-Date:07.06.2024
Genre:HipHop/Rap/Urban
Configuration:2LP Excl
Label:Be With Records
Cat-No:bewith157lp
Release-Date:07.06.2024
Genre:HipHop/Rap/Urban
Configuration:2LP Excl
1
Superstar Quamallah - Mr. Righteous (Intro) (0:35)
2
Superstar Quamallah - You Need Knowledge (3:45)
3
Superstar Quamallah - 88 Soul (3:12)
4
Superstar Quamallah - Black Shakespeare (3:02)
5
Superstar Quamallah - For My People...It's Spiritual (2:55)
6
Superstar Quamallah - Lonely At The Top (3:56)
7
Superstar Quamallah - Just Listen (4:05)
8
Superstar Quamallah - California Dreamin' (4:33)
9
Superstar Quamallah - Purity (3:59)
10
Superstar Quamallah - Kunta Kente (4:20)
11
Superstar Quamallah - 1993 Shit (3:49)
12
Superstar Quamallah - We Got Plots (3:38)
13
Superstar Quamallah - Do Win-Dis (4:11)
14
Superstar Quamallah - Hope She Remembers Me (3:15)
Format Notes: 2024 first time vinyl release, 140g double vinyl, remastered audio with restored artwork
Track List:
A1 Mr. Righteous (Intro) 0:35
A2 You Need Knowledge 3:45
A3 88 Soul 3:12
A4 Black Shakespeare 3:02
B1 For My People...It's Spiritual 2:55
B2 Lonely At The Top 3:56
B3 Just Listen 4:05
B4 California Dreamin' 4:33
C1 Purity 3:59
C2 Kunta Kente 4:20
C3 1993 Shit 3:49
D1 We Got Plots 3:38
D2 Do Win-Dis 4:11
D3 Hope She Remembers Me 3:15
Release Notes:
Holy grail hip-hop alert! Superstar Quamallah's Invisible Man was never released on wax so, to celebrate the 15th anniversary of this astounding record, we present the first ever vinyl edition. A stunning record which gained accolades upon its initial release, such as a prominent feature on Gilles Peterson's renowned Best Of 2009 show, it's one of the most essential jazz rap albums of all time. Cut across double vinyl, it’s exceedingly limited, with just 500 pressed for the world.
Deep jazz rap on that mellow-melodic tip, Invisible Man is an unforgettable album with nothing but dope beats and dope bars. There's a strong chance this album has passed you by but we truly believe it to be a lost hip-hop masterpiece. It supremely captures the essence of a golden age classic without being slavish to the past. No, this ain't some facile throwback rap. It's a fresh and deeply soulful, original album shot through straight from the heart. Perfect to chill to, Invisible Man is profoundly jazz-oriented and captures with simplicity and sincerity the essence of hip-hop circa 1983-1994. It sounds like vibing with your nearest, dearest and oldest friends on a long hot summer night as the tantalising thought that anything is possible fills the air. You know what, we can just call this "magic hour rap" and we think you'll know what we mean. It's just beautiful. Just Listen.
Brooklyn-born, California-based emcee, DJ, and producer Superstar Quamallah was active in the West Coast underground scene throughout the 90s and recorded extensively with such revered names as Defari and Tajai. His parents were some serious artistic heavyweights, too; his father was soul organist Big John Patton, a giant in the jazz world known for his releases on Blue Note whilst his mother was an active designer. However, he remains relatively unknown. Invisible Man, named ostensibly after the classic Ralph Ellison novel, could also refer to how he is viewed by the public at large. With close affiliations to the Hieroglyphics, Dilated Peoples and Likwit crew, his debut EP "Don't Call Me John" arrived in 1999 on ABB Records, after which he took a sabbatical from recording which included graduate school, travelling, teaching at Inglewood High and eventually a professorship of African Studies at Berkeley.
With a laidback flow and deep, relaxing presence on the mic, Superstar Quamallah is equal parts Big Daddy Kane, Rakim and Guru. Invisible Man is refined, soulful, feel-good hip-hop of the old school. Its wise, spiritual and literate sound, combined with the summertime vibes projected by the smooth beats and the nostalgia-inducing samples and vocal scratches, created jazzy boom-bap rap reminiscent of prime De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest and Gang Starr.
Irresistibly bouncing opener "You Need Knowledge" loops sparkling pianos, horns and a nagging whistle refrain with scratched vocal refrains from Slick Rick, Mobb Deep and Guru. The super-smooth head-nod classic "88 Soul" also utilises a beautifully swelling piano line and dusty breaks whilst Quamé reminisces about his childhood in NYC. Deeply moving, the silky, sultry "Black Shakespeare" is built around an elegant piano loop and goes hard on the superman lover tip whilst "For My People...It's Spiritual" is transcendental rap in conversation with Rakim and older gods. The "Moment Of Truth"-sampling "Lonely At The Top" is striking for its undiluted boom-bap stylings and the staccato flute-hop of "Just Listen" is riddled with soulful refinement. The deeply-affecting, wistful-yet-triumphant bells and horn-drenched single "California Dreamin'" is top-tier rap of unimpeachable quality. What a flow!
Another highlight is the rich melodic piano-rap of "Purity", a beautiful ode to the foundations of rap and those keeping the culture authentically alive. Beautifully played instruments and spiritual jazz samples elevate the deep thinking present on "Kunta Kente" whilst the darker jazz-tinged battle-rap of "93 Shit" goes super hard both in a lyrical sense and with its no-holds drum punches. The breezy Rhodes and string loops that serve as the sonic backdrop to the slinky jazz rap of "We Got Plots" are just gorgeous as our hero evokes Common's "I Used To Love H.E.R." with a head-spinning tale of crime, deception and double crossing. And some twist! "Do Win-Dis" has a tense crime-funk backing and rolling beats which complement Quamé's flow perfectly before the record is rounded out by the tough yet jazzy brilliance of rap confessional "Hope She Remembers Me". Just sensational.
Upon its original release, Quamallah himself declared: "My favorite time period for Hip Hop music was definitely between 1983 and 1994 with 1988 and 1993 being two years that standout as extremely impressive years musically and culturally. The fashion, slang, movies, TV shows and vibe during those years was incredible. While totally submerged in the feelings and music of that entire time period, I went to work on Invisible Man and I am excited for people to hear the result! It is an album that I would want to hear from some of my favorite artists of the past and present today. This is not a RETRO trip for me; this is me at my best lyrically and spiritually using the accessories of the 80s and 90s to fuel me. I am a 88 soul as the song states!"
This album goes deep. It goes all in. When Invisible Man first came out it had a real hold on us here at Be With HQ. We couldn't stop listening to it. We'd venture to say it's one of the top 25 rap records of the 2000s. In the years since its release, it has remained a criminally underrated record, an increasingly hidden gem. We sincerely hope this first time double LP release will go some way to correct this. It's been mastered for vinyl by Simon Francis, cut by Cicely Balston and pressed at Record Industry. Finally available on the format it should always have been on, it must never be rendered invisible again.
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Track List:
A1 Mr. Righteous (Intro) 0:35
A2 You Need Knowledge 3:45
A3 88 Soul 3:12
A4 Black Shakespeare 3:02
B1 For My People...It's Spiritual 2:55
B2 Lonely At The Top 3:56
B3 Just Listen 4:05
B4 California Dreamin' 4:33
C1 Purity 3:59
C2 Kunta Kente 4:20
C3 1993 Shit 3:49
D1 We Got Plots 3:38
D2 Do Win-Dis 4:11
D3 Hope She Remembers Me 3:15
Release Notes:
Holy grail hip-hop alert! Superstar Quamallah's Invisible Man was never released on wax so, to celebrate the 15th anniversary of this astounding record, we present the first ever vinyl edition. A stunning record which gained accolades upon its initial release, such as a prominent feature on Gilles Peterson's renowned Best Of 2009 show, it's one of the most essential jazz rap albums of all time. Cut across double vinyl, it’s exceedingly limited, with just 500 pressed for the world.
Deep jazz rap on that mellow-melodic tip, Invisible Man is an unforgettable album with nothing but dope beats and dope bars. There's a strong chance this album has passed you by but we truly believe it to be a lost hip-hop masterpiece. It supremely captures the essence of a golden age classic without being slavish to the past. No, this ain't some facile throwback rap. It's a fresh and deeply soulful, original album shot through straight from the heart. Perfect to chill to, Invisible Man is profoundly jazz-oriented and captures with simplicity and sincerity the essence of hip-hop circa 1983-1994. It sounds like vibing with your nearest, dearest and oldest friends on a long hot summer night as the tantalising thought that anything is possible fills the air. You know what, we can just call this "magic hour rap" and we think you'll know what we mean. It's just beautiful. Just Listen.
Brooklyn-born, California-based emcee, DJ, and producer Superstar Quamallah was active in the West Coast underground scene throughout the 90s and recorded extensively with such revered names as Defari and Tajai. His parents were some serious artistic heavyweights, too; his father was soul organist Big John Patton, a giant in the jazz world known for his releases on Blue Note whilst his mother was an active designer. However, he remains relatively unknown. Invisible Man, named ostensibly after the classic Ralph Ellison novel, could also refer to how he is viewed by the public at large. With close affiliations to the Hieroglyphics, Dilated Peoples and Likwit crew, his debut EP "Don't Call Me John" arrived in 1999 on ABB Records, after which he took a sabbatical from recording which included graduate school, travelling, teaching at Inglewood High and eventually a professorship of African Studies at Berkeley.
With a laidback flow and deep, relaxing presence on the mic, Superstar Quamallah is equal parts Big Daddy Kane, Rakim and Guru. Invisible Man is refined, soulful, feel-good hip-hop of the old school. Its wise, spiritual and literate sound, combined with the summertime vibes projected by the smooth beats and the nostalgia-inducing samples and vocal scratches, created jazzy boom-bap rap reminiscent of prime De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest and Gang Starr.
Irresistibly bouncing opener "You Need Knowledge" loops sparkling pianos, horns and a nagging whistle refrain with scratched vocal refrains from Slick Rick, Mobb Deep and Guru. The super-smooth head-nod classic "88 Soul" also utilises a beautifully swelling piano line and dusty breaks whilst Quamé reminisces about his childhood in NYC. Deeply moving, the silky, sultry "Black Shakespeare" is built around an elegant piano loop and goes hard on the superman lover tip whilst "For My People...It's Spiritual" is transcendental rap in conversation with Rakim and older gods. The "Moment Of Truth"-sampling "Lonely At The Top" is striking for its undiluted boom-bap stylings and the staccato flute-hop of "Just Listen" is riddled with soulful refinement. The deeply-affecting, wistful-yet-triumphant bells and horn-drenched single "California Dreamin'" is top-tier rap of unimpeachable quality. What a flow!
Another highlight is the rich melodic piano-rap of "Purity", a beautiful ode to the foundations of rap and those keeping the culture authentically alive. Beautifully played instruments and spiritual jazz samples elevate the deep thinking present on "Kunta Kente" whilst the darker jazz-tinged battle-rap of "93 Shit" goes super hard both in a lyrical sense and with its no-holds drum punches. The breezy Rhodes and string loops that serve as the sonic backdrop to the slinky jazz rap of "We Got Plots" are just gorgeous as our hero evokes Common's "I Used To Love H.E.R." with a head-spinning tale of crime, deception and double crossing. And some twist! "Do Win-Dis" has a tense crime-funk backing and rolling beats which complement Quamé's flow perfectly before the record is rounded out by the tough yet jazzy brilliance of rap confessional "Hope She Remembers Me". Just sensational.
Upon its original release, Quamallah himself declared: "My favorite time period for Hip Hop music was definitely between 1983 and 1994 with 1988 and 1993 being two years that standout as extremely impressive years musically and culturally. The fashion, slang, movies, TV shows and vibe during those years was incredible. While totally submerged in the feelings and music of that entire time period, I went to work on Invisible Man and I am excited for people to hear the result! It is an album that I would want to hear from some of my favorite artists of the past and present today. This is not a RETRO trip for me; this is me at my best lyrically and spiritually using the accessories of the 80s and 90s to fuel me. I am a 88 soul as the song states!"
This album goes deep. It goes all in. When Invisible Man first came out it had a real hold on us here at Be With HQ. We couldn't stop listening to it. We'd venture to say it's one of the top 25 rap records of the 2000s. In the years since its release, it has remained a criminally underrated record, an increasingly hidden gem. We sincerely hope this first time double LP release will go some way to correct this. It's been mastered for vinyl by Simon Francis, cut by Cicely Balston and pressed at Record Industry. Finally available on the format it should always have been on, it must never be rendered invisible again.
More