Tracklist
A1
A2
B1
B2


Berlin’s ZentaSkai returns to his Mask Records with the ‘Billie’ EP, collaborating with Palawan, Jeremy Reinhard, and Thomas Grün for release on vinyl only, 2nd November 2025. He kicks off with the solo cut 'A1', which is quick, sophisticated, raw House with a funky clip to the beats that diffuses heat in the grainy sustained pads. It brings serene emotional release through stylish hypnosis and gorgeous vocals that blend seamlessly into the mix.
Next, ZentaSkai collaborates with the mysterious Palawan, as he did on one track of his 2023 album The Architecture Of The Mind, on 'A2.' This one suspends you in backlit synth glows while rounded drums and funky claps tap out the supple rhythm. Cautious hope comes from the quiet chord stabs and soft focus melodies in what is a masterclass in deep Techno minimalism.
'B1' reunites ZentaSkai with Cologne's Jeremy Reinhard following previous cuts on that same 2023 album. Reinhard has long been a pillar of his local Berlin scene as a resident DJ, but also the wider underground with his own label Lekker Record. Their track taps into dub depths but ups the pace and allows radiant synths to piece the surface next to muttered spoken word that keep it intimate and perfectly seductive for body and mind. Last of all is a collab with Austrian Thomas Grün, who has been shaping deep and Tech House with his immaculate grooves for decades. Their 'B2' brings US garage snares to buoyant drums and douses them in layers of fuzzy synth warmth. It's meditative yet direct with an ever-rising sense of hope that makes it all the more indelible.
ZentaSkai (aka No Mad Ronin, Matt Nowak, and MASK) is a German DJ and producer active since 1997. Based out of his studio in Berlin, ZentaSkai runs the Zaijenroots label and, since 2017, the Mask sub-label, which houses his stunning 2023 ‘Architecture of the Mind’ LP as well as his Cuddling Monsters project with Laura Merino Allue, who has been significantly involved in the label's work since 2023. - with other credits including a release on Jerome Sydenham’s Ibadan Records and support from the likes of Richie Hawtin, Joseph Capriati, Marcel Dettmann, Luke Slater, Laurent Garnier, DVS1, Ben Sims, and Radio Slave.








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Tracklist
A1
A2
B1
B2



Berlin’s ZentaSkai continues his slew of limited-run 200-copy vinyl releases via his Mask Records this July, presenting the ‘JIMMY’ EP, and following up last year’s ‘Bob’ EP and two instalments from his Cuddling Monsters project with Laura Merino Allue.

Across the four tracks on ‘JIMMY’, ZentaSkai delves deep, placing mysterious, foreboding synths over crunchy taped drums and exploring a variety of tempos. Dub influences are rife, its elements echoing across carefully laid-out Techno grooves while minimal shifts subtly build the energy. With ‘JIMMY’, ZentaSkai once again offers a journey through sound already supported by Luke Slater, Blasha & Allatt, Truncate, Elisa Bee, and many more. ZentaSkai (aka No Mad Ronin, Matt Nowak, and MASK) is a German DJ and producer active since 1997. Based out of his studio in Berlin, ZentaSkai runs the Zaijenroots label and, since 2017, the Mask sub-label, which houses his stunning 2023 ‘Architecture of the Mind’ LP as well as his Cuddling Monsters alias - with other credits including a release on Jerome Sydenham’s Ibadan Records and support from the likes of Richie Hawtin, Joseph Capriati, Marcel Dettmann, Luke Slater, Laurant Garnier, DVS1, Ben Sims and Radio Slave.
ZentaSkai ‘JIMMY’ releases via Mask Records 4th July 2025









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Genres: Dub Techno, Techno, House


ZentaSkai and Laura Merino Allue return to Mask Records as Cuddling Monsters with volume two of their vinyl-only house and techno series


Tracklist:
A1 Dark REM
A2 Monster Talk
B1 Event Horizon
B2 Temporal Aura

Arriving on a limited 200-copy translucent orange vinyl, 'Dark REM' on Cuddling Monsters’ second release on Mask Records is a hunched-over and direct dub techno cut with forceful drums and deft percussion, adding texture next to warm, sustained pads.
There's a real sense of urgency in this most frictionless groove, which means it cannot fail to cast a spell on the dance floor. The fantastic 'Event Horizon' is then infused with the aura of deep space - sustained chords with a cosmic edge add vast scale to the well-programmed deep techno drums. 'Monster Talk' is a mid-tempo dub track with underlapping drums and rattling, rusted chords that disappear to infinity. It's cavernous and evocative, with myriad little details occupying the mind. 'Temporal Aura' is another standout sound that blends deep techno, dub, and minimal into a serene soundtrack that encourages inward reflection while driving onwards through the cosmos.
Mask Records founder ZentaSkai and his creative partner Laura Merino Allue are Berlin mainstays helping shape the underground. Cuddling Monsters is a new project that debuted on the label in March. It is all about crafting music with analogue instruments, which they believe "offer distinctive sonic qualities, creative constraints, and genuine sound reproduction”. They explore Detroit-infused house, dub techno and minimal soundscapes with raw edges and a great sense of atmosphere. Cuddling Monsters' 'Cuddling Monsters_CM Vol. 02' releases via Mask Records on 6th December 2024.








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Genres: Dub Techno, Romanian, Techno

Vinyl only

Tracklist
A1. ZentaSkai - Bob (6:16)
A2. ZentaSkai - Bob (6:52)
B1. ZentaSkai & Sebastian Klenk - Bob (11:41)

Release Date:
Following a ten-part series of unannounced artist records and a spectacular high-concept album on Mask Records, label head ZentaSkai returns to the imprint for his next solo vinyl-only release, ‘Bob’.
The A1 sees the Berlin-based ZentaSkai combine a dusty, taped white noise feel with subtle, swirling dub chords as its high-end propels the track forward. It’s a stunning and evocative piece before the A2 continues with minimal drums and electric acid bleeps, a smooth organ lead completing its gorgeous soundscape.
On the B-side of the ‘Bob’ EP, ZentaSkai joins forces with long-time collaborator Sebastian Klenk. It follows their
‘Apeiron’ track on ZentaSkai’s 2023 ‘Architecture Of The Mind’ LP, among other joint work, and sees them deliver a near-twelve-minute track that is a true masterpiece. The track takes listeners through found-sound texture samples, intricate drum patterns, crunchy breakbeats, and more beautiful dub melodics.
‘Bob’ is another fantastic listening experience on Mask Records, already supported by Satoshi Tomiie, Raresh and Laurent Garnier.






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Tracklist:
01 Lucky Star
02 Crystal Growing
03 Floating Tank
04 Analog Dreams


MASK’s ZentaSkai & Laura Merino Allue announce vinyl-only underground house and techno series as
Cuddling Monsters.
Cuddling Monsters serve up the first vinyl-only volume of a new self-titled series on Berlin-based Mask Records. All
four cuts explore deep and classy techno, dub and house soundscapes with the aim of rediscovering the soul of
electronic music and forming new bonds between human creativity and technological innovations.
Cuddling Monsters is the coming together of creative partners ZentaSkai and Laura Merino Allue. ZentaSkai is the
MASK founder recognised for his immersive, hypnotic groove, and Allue is a fashion and graphic designer. They are
newly assembled under this alias but have a long-time love of vinyl and analogue machines, which shows in their sounds.
"Crafting music with analogue instruments holds profound importance in the contemporary musical landscape. Despite
the omnipresence of digital technology, analogue instruments maintain a pivotal role, offering distinctive sonic qualities,
creative constraints, and genuine sound reproduction. The tactile, hands-on connection." - Cuddling Monsters
The superbly deep and atmospheric 'Lucky Star' is a dubby minimal cut with a deft rhythm and warm pads that are
perfect for cosy back rooms. The absorbing 'Crystal Growing' is another stripped-back techno roller with rubbery drums
and pensive chords that lock you into a state of meditation. Up next is the powerful 'Floating Tank' which pairs gorgeous
ambient synths with driving drums. It's a great coming together of the physical and the emotional that will take dance
floors to the next level. 'Analog Dreams' shuts down with more perfectly smoky pads and grainy lo-fi atmospheres as
slick but driving drums power onwards.
Cuddling Monsters ‘Cuddling Monsters_CM Vol. 01’ releases via MASK 29th March 2024.





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3LP, triple gatefold


Tracklist:

Side A
01 Mind Mapping
02 030

SIDE B
03 Fügung (feat. Laura Merino)
04 Flow Dreaming

SIDE C
05 Structural Understanding
06 Quiet Reflection

SIDE D
07 Geruda Dub
08 Boiling Range
09 Interlude

SIDE E
10 Karl-Marx-Allee (ZentaSkai & Jeremy Reinhard)
11 Dynamic System (ZentaSkai vs. Palawan)

SIDE F
12 Apeiron (ZentaSkai & Sebastian Klenk)
13 Parallel 30 (ZentaSkai & Apoena feat. Yucuma)

Release Info:
ZentaSkai unveils stunning, high-concept house album on Mask Records.
ZentaSkai undertook a period of research into the underlying structure and organisation of the human brain
before writing ‘The Architecture Of The Mind’. The Berlin-based artist then took what had been learned and
kept it in mind when writing the music that marks Mask's first album release. It comes with extensive
background notes on each track, and an operational manual of sorts - notes from the artists as to the effects
each piece will have on those who hear them.
"The message conveyed by this album is that life itself is filled with music, but our egos often prevent us from
being in harmony with this symphony. Inner chaos and silence can be challenging to bear, leading us to seek
solace in external noise. We have constructed a barrier between our inner and outer worlds, causing us to
lose touch with the rhythm of harmony. However, by embracing the illusion of separation and dancing to good
music, we can rediscover harmony with ourselves and our environment. To fully experience the essence of
the album, it should be played loudly on a proper sound system or high-quality headphones. By immersing
themselves in the music, individuals can engage with its transformative power and potentially find a deeper
connection with their own minds and surroundings." - ZentaSkai
The gorgeous 'Mind Mapping' opens up with deep and dubby drums and lush harmonies that soothe you to
your core, '030' then has more raw, heavy drums with many layers of glowing synths, glassy melodies and
organic found sounds. 'Fügung' keeps the deep and introspective moods coming before the crisp tech of
'Flow Dreaming' ups the ante with more drive and layers of vocal whispers, hi-hats and smeared dub chords.
Elsewhere the likes of 'Quiet Reflection' lean into the groove with swirling pads and one-word vocal sounds
drifting through the air over propulsive drum loops, and 'Boiling Range' suspends you in deft synth loops
amongst the stars over a prickly house beat.
The superb synth craft and well-designed grooves continue through the dusty deep house of
'Karl-Marx-Allee' and minimal dub of 'Dynamic System' before the elegant melodic techno of 'Apeiron' and
dreamy synthscapes of 'Parallel 30' close the album in a reflective fashion.
This is a deeply evocative album with a fully realised concept that is as thought-provoking as it is immersive.






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Format: Vinyl Only (Limited 250 copies)

Tracklist:
01) A1
02) A2
03) A3
04) B1
05) B2
06) B3

Release Info:
Independent label MASK returns with another untitled release featuring six innovative interpretations.
Blossoming Berlin-based imprint MASK continues to invite anonymous artists to the label, delivering quality
cuts produced using analogue gear across the imprint’s trademark style of raw house, techno and ambient
territories. With support from the likes of ItaloJohnson, Truncate, DJ Bone and Ryan Elliott, DATE welcomes
the arrival of six fresh, immersive cuts as they enlist yet another unknown artist to join the series.
The widely appealing package opens via the filtered loops, layered sonics and low humming frequencies of
‘A1’, whilst ‘A2’ reveals a deeper, darker cut with sharp boom bap drums, distorted tones and warped effects.
Next, ‘A3’ has an ethereal edge and explores a plethora of robust sounds, dubby chords and heady, pulsating
rhythms.
On the flip, the richly euphoric ‘B1’ leads with seductive drum programming, chopped-up vocal snippets and
scintillating keys that take listeners to another level. Penultimate offering ‘B2’ reveals a driving, feel-good
affair before rounding out proceedings with the off-kilter, jazz-leaning and undoubtedly enrapturing
soundscapes of the low-slung ‘B3’.







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Vinyl Only (Limited 150 copies)

Tracklist:
1. A1
2. A2
3. A3
4. B1
5. B2
6. B3

Release Info:
German imprint MASK return in 2021 with yet another inviting anonymous release featuring six
raw original cuts.
The MASK imprint continue to impress with their signature aesthetic which places focus on intricate,
modular based house, techno and ambient cuts and everything in between. Their previous releases have
garnered strong support from various artists including the likes of Laurent Garnier, DJ Bone, Photonz,
Anastasia Kristensen, Marcel Dettmann and many more, and ‘Knef’ sees the esoteric German imprint
deliver yet another impressive collection of tracks to kick start 2021.
The ‘A1’ gets the EP rolling with muffled drums and enticing moods that sit delicately underneath the
soulful, samples and sweeping synths before ‘A2’ offers up resounding kicks that balance delightfully with
the reverberating modulations and powerful yet interesting fx. The A3 lays focus on an aquatic house roller
with bubbly melodies and dreamy pads with magnetising emotions brimming to the surface.
On the flip, the ‘B1’ is an engaging cut with breezy resonance and ethereal leads which lure you in from the
start whilst the dubby drums, solemn ambience and laid-back moods take focus in the ‘B2’. Rounding
things off in experimental fashion, the ‘B3’ is an eccentric meditative, cut with leftfield oscillations and
beatless vibrations which blend together with stunning effect.
Unknown ‘Knef’ drops on MASK in early Spring 2021.





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Vinyl Only, Limited to 200 copies

Tracklist:
1. A1
2. A2
3. A3
4. B1
5. B2
6. B3

Release Info:

Esoteric German imprint MASK are back with another untitled release featuring six modulated
cuts.
The MASK imprint have steadily built themselves a reputation within the electronic music world honing a
sharp production style which lays focus on effervescent, live jams on hardware gear. The previous six
releases on the imprint have garnered an array of support from some of the scene’s most respected names
including the likes of Laurent Garnier, Danny Daze, Dan Curtin, Machine Woman, DJ Deep and more
names, with MASK continually delivering the goods.
The ‘A1’ kicks thing off with warm pads sitting gracefully underneath the sweeping percussive groove whilst
‘A2’ focuses on resounding kicks, otherworldly undertones and enlightening leads in the distance. ‘A3’ is
breaks-tinged cut featuring spiralling chords, syncopated rhythms and luscious melodies floating above the
spacious yet swinging flow.
On the flip, the ‘B1’ offers up dreamy pads, shimmering synths that bounce delightfully off the vibrant hihats in this late night, deep house gem. Low-slung electro drums, ethereal melodic keys, scintillating bass
whirls makes up the inspiriting cut that is ‘B2’ before the ‘B3’ delightfully rounds off the release with gentle
soundscapes underneath the pensive ambience and German vocals.
Unknown ‘Amy drops on MASK in October 2020.


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Vinyl Only, Limited to 150 copies

Tracklist:
1. A
2. B

Release Info:
Mysterious Berlin label MASK return in 2020 with a vinyl only release consisting of a pair of raw
cuts entitled ‘Marilyn’.
MASK preserve their esoteric philosophy of delivering well-crafted, modulated house and techno cuts
produced on hardware equipment and ‘Marilyn’ certainly follows suit. MASK releases are the result of
anonymous artists live jamming together in unison with the first five releases picking up support from the
likes of Laurent Garnier, Marcel Dettmann, Elena Colombi, Machine Woman and many more.
The A side is 13-minute voyage featuring fluttering, resonant drums, lo-fi synth stabs and growling
oscillations that take the focus in the later stages while on the B side sweeping pads, spacey undertones
and squelchy, acid soaked sci-fi elements keep the sonical experience obscure yet fascinating throughout.
Unknown ‘Marilyn’ drops on MASK in February 2020.


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12" Vinyl only 150 Ltd

Tracklist 12":
A1 Unknown – untitled
A2 Unknown – untitled
B1 Unknown – untitled
B2 Unknown – untitled

Release Info:
The elusive Berlin label MASK are back with another anonymous release featuring four
analogue driven tracks entitled ‘Cliff’.
Known for being purveyors of mysterious yet exquisite hardware induced tracks, MASK continue to
hold up their reputation following on from ‘Hunter’ that picked up support from the likes of Laurent
Garnier, Elena Colombi, Machine Woman, Anastasia Kristensen and DJ Deep. ‘Cliff’ involves four
people live jamming on analogue equipment in a Berlin based studio.
A1 begins with crunchy drums fused with revolving, modulated synths and obscure elements that are
soaked in acid flavours before the A2 focuses on an electro-tinged sequence in harmony with ominous
atmospherics and eccentric oscillations.
On the flip, sweeping pads balanced with intense kicks and washing synths take the focus on the B1
until the B2 rounds off this magical EP with wavering compositions, hard-hitting percussion and
unsettling sound design keeping the atmosphere intense yet truly absorbing.

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Vinyl Only, LTD 200 copies

Tracklist:
A1 – Untitled
A2 – Untitled
B1 – Untitled
B2 – Untitled

Release Info:
Enigmatic Berlin label MASK return in 2019 with a vinyl only release consisting of four eccentric
cuts entitled ‘Hunter’.
The mysterious German label maintains its reputation of providing quality, esoteric music by anonymous
artists with a focus on analogue sound design and modulated oddities. ‘Hunter’ is the result of the first take
of a live recording coming from a duo who have been playing together for over a decade.
The A1 kicks off with lo-fi drum programming, emphatic leads and stabbing bass shoots before the A2
throws down sharp 303 bleeps, angelic pads and resonating kicks creating a euphoric ambience
throughout.
On the flip uplifting synth work, shuffling percussion and crunchy oscillations take the focus until chugged
out experimentation becomes ever present in the final track as it harmoniously balances sweeping
elements, growling tones and sonic obscurities.
Unknown ‘Hunter’ drops on MASK in February 2019.

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June will see the return of the mysterious Berlin based label MASK with four raw and murky cuts entitled ‘Rellik’.

Tracklist
A1 - No Titel, A2 - No Titel
B1 - No Titel, B2 - No Titel

As with the previous two releases on the label, ‘Rellik’ was recorded live and on the first take using a
selection of analog synths, drum machines and sequencers, particularly the warm and dynamic sound
of the E-Mu SP 1200 as the lead.
“The ’Rellik” project is a mashup between Rock and Hip Hop elements using SP1200 classic drum kits,
filtered and distorted synths. We call this Krauttech” - MASK
Intense sirens set the tone of the A1 before introducing a thumping sub and delayed snares, making
way for harsh bass and dark effects in the A2 to generate an ominous atmosphere. On the flip, the B1
brings crunchy, modulated synths alongside an intense and thunderous kick whilst the B2 delivers a
thick, pulsating low-end with an assortment of metallic and heavy drones that round off this cryptic
package.
‘Rellik’ drops via MASK June 29, 2018

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Mysterious Berlin imprint MASK preps its second release with four more untitled tracks this
March.
Continuing the theme of the first release, ‘Noah’ has been produced and recorded live in one take using
a selection of analogue gear, including an EMU SP 1200, Mutual Instruments Ambika, Nord Rack 2x,
Octatrack, Vermona Action Filter 4.
A soothing synth line sets the tone of the ‘A1' before implementing sporadic drums and squelchy notes,
making way for the melodic chords and a wall of sub bass in the mesmerising ‘A2’. Murky atmospherics
and a medley of percussive hits generate a dusty aesthetic in the ‘B1’ until the organic beat and
distorted robotic sounds of the ‘B2' provide an otherworldly conclusion to the enigmatic release.
Tracklist
1. A1 - Untitled
2. A2 - Untitled
3. B2 - Untitled
4. B2 - Untitled

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Mysterious Berlin based label MASK preps its debut release titled ‘LEMMY’ with four untitled cuts
this April.
A new series born out of an established German imprint, MASK’s enigmatic debut release was produced
using a selection of analogue gear including a Moog Slim Phatty, E-mu SP-1200 and Nord Rack 2X.
The A side begins with a track built around a tightly programmed drum loop which subtly builds, laced with
mix-slicing hats and sub-low kicks whilst stretched out chords dissipate around a crunchy synth lead. The
second production is twisted and dusty, using flanging and reverberated effects to lead towards a distorted
breakdown, driven from the depths by gusts of full bodied snares and a growling sub line.
On the flip, dulcet tones of a female vocalist join lush melodic chords to cleanse the palette, whilst working
within the confines of a subdued yet crisp drum machine groove. The final track then strips things back
even further, employing minimalist percussive hits and a warm bass lead, leaving space for its soothing
female vocals to do the talking.
Unknown Artist ‘LEMMY EP’ drops on MASK this 28th April 2017.
Tracklist:
A1 – Untitled
A2 – Untitled
B1 – Untitled
B2 – Untitled

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Smokey colour vinyl 3LP with obi-strip

TRACKLIST:

Holiday Roberta Jean Machine I Need You So Much Runaway I'm Doing Fine Shades Of Jae Riley's Song Back At Bakers (On Livernois) Mahogani 9000 Black Mahogani


LP FORMAT DETAILS: Smokey colour vinyl 3LP with obi-strip

LISTEN LINK: https://open.spotify.com/album/224OuhZ1LThmaYGhD8ikq6?si=HPDOersESUmohYgJABHYnA


OVERVIEW:

It’s been over 20 years since Kenny Dixon Jr., better known as Moodymann, released Black Mahogani—an album rich in atmosphere and emotion, offering a quintessential journey through deep house, soul, and jazz. Timeless yet modern, it’s an immersive and emotionally resonant experience that reflects the singular character of Detroit’s deep musical heritage. Originally released in 2004, Black Mahogani is arguably one of Moodymann’s most revered and sought-after works. It completes the puzzle laid out by his rare and elusive KDJ 12” releases from the mid to late '90s. With the help of Detroit legends like the late Amp Fiddler, Roberta Sweed, and Norma Jean Bell, Dixon infused his analog soundscapes and samples with a new organic warmth—expanding the deep house genre while simultaneously paying homage to 1970s soul and cinematic soundtracks. Dixon’s masterful control of tension—knowing exactly when to hold back and when to let go—makes Black Mahogani an enduring masterpiece. It's not just a landmark in electronic music, but a definitive statement in 21st-century Black American music.

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Rights: World excluding France & UK

Packaging: 2 X 140 grs Black Vinyl , gatefold sleeve with embossed spot Gold Foil, 2x black dust inner sleeve marketing front sticker

SHORT BIOG & KEY POINTS

- Goldie presents Rufige Kru “Alpha Omega” album.
- Rufige Kru was Goldie’s collective with around him no fix members and including various drum & bass producers.
- This is the comeback & first new album of Goldie’s iconic alias Rufige Kru since 2009’s “Memoirs of an afterlife”.
- This new album ‘Alpha Omega’ produced with James Davidson (Subjective)
- Rufige Kru now also features longtime collaborator Submotive alongside Goldie.
- First track collaboration with Casisdead (Best UK Hip Hope artist at Brit Awards 2024) announced & released February 26. Video for track featuring both artists.
- Goldie touring Europe & US to support album as DJ and with live band : US DJ tour in May , teaser (before the album release) dates in the UK & US + summer festivals in Europe
- 2025 will also mark 30 years of the album “Timeless” .

TRACKLISTING:
DOUBLE VINYL
Side A:
1. Alpha Omega
2. Goldikus
3. Virgil
Side B:
1. Express Your Soul
2. Sandcastles
3. Still The Same feat. CASISDEAD
Side C:
1. Mercury - TBC
2. Siamese Ghost
3. Secret Handshake
Side D:
1. Spirits
2. People and Places
3. The Guardianz

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Packaging: 1x Black 140 Grs Vinyl, 'Dufy' Sleeve with textured card & gold Pms, printed inner sleeve, marketing sticker. Vinyl cut at half-speed.

COLLECTOR VINYL 1LP,
- Restored "second edition" artwork with textured sleeve
- The exact textured card for the outer sleeve has been accurately sourced. Gold PMS finish, printed inner sleeve, marketing sticker.
- 45th anniversary edition
- Newly remastered from the original source tapes for the first time since 1980
- ½ speed master
- Liner notes by The Durutti Column / Factory Records expert James Nice

VINYL EDITION

Side One (all 2025 remasters)
1. Sketch For Summer
2. Requiem for a Father
3. Katherine
4. Conduct

Side Two (all 2025 remasters)
1. Untitled
2. Beginning
3. Jazz
4. Sketch for Winter
5. Collette
6. In 'D'
7. Lips That Would Kiss
8. Madeleine


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Territories: Worldwide no restrictions

Format Notes: Hyper-limited (300 only!) ethereal ambient-guitar-soul, originally released on cassette only. 2025 first time ever vinyl release, 140g vinyl.


Track List:

A1 XI
A2 XII
A3 XIII
A4 XIV
A5 XV
A6 XVI
A7 XVII

B1 XVIII
B2 XIX
B3 XX

Release Notes:

On a "Balearic-Jazz trip", the phenomenally hyped Thought Leadership returns with another X ideas: the deck this time chooses the Ace of Swords. In the acclaim garnered by III of Pentacles, there were many whispers of “Balearic” from those in the know. As soon as you drop the needle on XI you will be basking in turbo Balearica.

Originally out on cassette only, we present the first ever vinyl issue. It's a hideously limited pressing of 300 for the world, so don't sleep on this.

The sonic palate has been augmented by the addition of synth and bass; there are more guitar layers, more pedals and more organic drums this time – a much fuller production. Still DIY, and still recorded straight to multitrack, just ever so slightly grander in scale; think a rough-hewn, long-lost Claremont 56 cut and you’ll have some idea of how XI opens this future classic LP.

The touchstones so key to the vision of Pentacles (Cocteau Twins, Dif Juz, Durutti Column) are all still present and correct; XII could be a piece from Extractions, XIII is pure Garlands-era Guthrie and, now with the shuffling jazz drums, XV makes TL even more LC – but more disparate influences are found this time out too. ECM guitar legends John Abercrombie and Pat Metheny in the more considered melodic phrasing and harmonic structure of the ideas and a nod to the cosmic Balearic spirit in the overall vibe, means more is offered to the listener across Swords.

XVI and XVII are the biggest indicators to Thought Leaderships’ new found love of The Real Book and their grasp of jazz chords. The former sounds like if Mike Hedges had produced on a heavily sedated ECM date in the early 80s, whilst the latter is Bright Size Life condensed into a most post-punk shard of Strat conversation. The syrupy Phase 90 on the lead parts lends much weight to the guitar melodies, a beautiful tonal counterpoint to the Vox-ish chimes of the plangent chords we’ve all come to love.

The flip again treats us to three extended, improvised jams. XVIII owes as much to Canterbury as it does to Krautrock, another modal voyage through the stars. Light the incense and drift away, guided by delayed cymbals and weaving ribbons of guitar. XIX has almost a New-Wave/Sophisti-Pop energy to it in tone, if not in structure and execution. Something almost Tears for Fears-esque in the chiming chorus guitars. An interesting outlier that has already received a lot of love from those that have heard it. XX is the starkest idea, and the only piece this time with no drums. What we do get, however, is a free exploration over a two chord-vamp. It’s Harvest Time meets Planet Caravan and a fitting end to this Balearic jazz trip.

Be With is honoured to present the first ever vinyl release of Ace Of Swords, carefully remastered by Be With's engineer Simon Francis to ensure it sounds better than ever after its initial tape release. Cicely Balston's expert skills have made sure nothing is lost in the cut at Abbey Road Studios whilst the records have been pressed to the highest possible standard at Record Industry, in Holland. The original tape cover artwork, so crucial to Thought Leadership's striking visual aesthetic, has been rejigged for vinyl issue here at Be With.

The last one flew. You have been warned.

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