Tracklisting:
A1 SHDW & Obscure Shape - Planet Der Sturme
A2 SHDW & Obscure Shape - Der Urknall
A3 SHDW & Obscure Shape - Das Gefallene Konigreich
B1 SHDW & Obscure Shape - Geburt Der Erde
B2 SHDW & Obscure Shape - Vergessene Welt

Sales Note
SHDW & Obscure Shape return to their mothership label From Another Mind with their six-track 'Vergessene Welt' EP, signalling the first material on the imprint for 18 months.

Founded in 2015, the launch of SHDW and Obscure Shape's label From Another Mind saw the Stuttgart-based DJ/producers establish themselves via a wealth of self-released material while welcoming a long list of high-profile remixers, including Rodhad, James Ruskin and Dax J. However, the pair's evolution saw new ventures explored and attention focused wider afield with the launch of their second label Mutual Rytm in 2022. Utilising their A&R skills, the label has seen the duo curate and invite a selection of up-and-coming and established names while also delivering their first EP on the label in Summer, 'Poetic Justice'. Exploring the techno sounds of tomorrow while drawing on influences of the past, the label quickly turned heads and has become a go-to for many. Following a brief hiatus, the attention is now turned back towards From Another Mind as the pair explore their origins and the signature FAM sound once again, opening the New Year with six fresh productions across their 'Vergessene Welt' EP.

Opener 'Planet Der Sturme' is an exhilarating ride through driving basslines, menacing synth lines and hard-hitting percussion to march towards the peak hours and set the tone for what's to come. 'Der Urknall' is a trippy and murky dive through off-kilter textures and regimented percussion, while 'Das Gefallene Konigreich' ups the energy levels further with sharp metallic tones, skittering hats and subtle haunting melodies launching deep into the late night hours.

On the flip, 'Geburt Der Erde' brings a slice of paired-back, groove-led techno as a slick acid line takes control and ebbs and flows throughout the track's six-minute duration, before closing the physical record via the delicate yet compelling sonics of title cut 'Vergessene Welt' - showcasing a deep dive into far-reaching corners of the genre. More

Tracklisting

A1 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Die Prophezeiung (Hadone Version)
A2 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Der Weg Des Kriegers (MRD Version)
B1 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Die Augen Des Teufels (Stigmata Version 1)
B2 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Blick Des Bosen (Exium Version)
C1 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Kein Entkommen (Héctor Oaks As DJKAOS Version)
C2 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Bisswunden (Introversion Version)
D1 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Verlorene Seelen (Ø [Phase] Version)
D2 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Feuersturm (DJ Boss Version)
D3 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Die Augen Des Teufels (Stigmata Version 2)
From Another Mind celebrates its fifth anniversary with 'Versionen 008', a mammoth remix package of SHDW & Obscure Shape tracks from Hector Oaks, O [Phase], Exium, and more. Comprising nine remixes of the German producer/DJ outfit, 'Versionen 008' covers four sides of vinyl and features adaptations from a wealth of modern techno talent, rising stars, and scene veterans alike, with Hadone, MRD, Stigmata, Exium, Hector Oaks AKA DJKAOS11, Introversion, O [Phase], and DJ Boss making contributions.

With the influences across the release darting between acid, techno, and rave, 'Versionen 008' is a no holds barred journey into the sounds of dark, cavernous rooms and sweaty basements alike, providing a keen insight into who SHDW & Obscure Shape are passionate about as artists. From the fast-paced, dub techno infused MRD version of 'Der Weg Des Kriegers', the explosive energy in Exium's remix of 'Blick Des Bosen', to the two versions of 'Die Augen Des Teufels' by Stigmata, who effortlessly provides a dose of early 2000's nostalgia, all aspects of the pair's musical tastes are covered.

Hector Oaks takes 'Kein Entkommen' in an otherworldly direction, painting the track with his signature voice, while O [Phase] brings his powerful and hypnotic sound to the duos 'Verlorene Seelen'. Elsewhere on the release, 'Die Prophezeiung' receives a shot of trancey energy from France's Hadone and Introversion breathes new life into 'Blisswunden', developing the track into a melodic dream amongst metallic percussion. The penultimate 'Feuersturm' gets the DJ Boss treatment, as the Slovakian DJ/producer transforms the track into a dynamic late-night roller.

Taking in these variety of moods across the remixes, the compilation sways between different strains of techno, from anthems to DJ tools, covering both modern and vintage to provide a diverse compilation that will no doubt be warmly welcomed by DJs and listeners alike. Favouring fiercely high-energy and gritty productions, the duo has used the label as an outlet for their dark, intense sound to the rapturous responses from DJs and dancefloors and 'Versionen 008' sees them celebrate five years of the imprint in typically uncompromising fashion.
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Tracklisting

A1 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Die Weisse Rose (Tale Of Us & Mind Against Version) (Tale Of Us & Mind Against remix)
A2 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Gesang Der Toten Dinge (Konstantin Sibold Version) (Konstantin Sibold remix)
B1 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Augen Der Nacht (Ryan James Ford Version) (Ryan James Ford remix)
B2 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Die Macht Des Schicksals (Inland Version) (Inland remix)

From Another Mind, founded in 2014, presents its fourth and most capacious release to date. Having started off initially as a South-German Party series, this release sees commanders-in-chief SHDW & Obscure Shape invite back previous guests from the clubnight, just this time using their talents as remixers to breathe new life into the first three much praised From Another Mind records.

The likes of Rodhad, Tale Of Us & Mind Against, Dax J, Konstantin Sibold and Shlomo all feature with contributions staying true to the Label's sound forged initially by its founders, and whether going down an epic or a more banging path, all versions pay respect to that special hypnotism which has found so many supporters.

Veteran Producer James Ruskin masterfully condenses "Nachtblende" down to a loop while Ryan James Ford brings a touch of IDM-ish Bleep Techno to "Augen Der Nacht". Ed Davenport explores his Inland project further, contributing a stepping techno journey which is only matched by Rodhad's version in its sheer vastness.

The release is split in two version EPs, namely FAM004.1 & FAM004.2. Both artworks function by themselves however its full glory shines when held next to each other as the paintings complement each other. More

A1 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Wenn Die Masken Fallen (Rodhad Version) (Rødhåd remix)
A2 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Die Dinge Des Lebens (Dax J Version) (Dax J remix)
B1 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Nachtblende (James Ruskin Version) (James Ruskin remix)
B2 SHDW & Obscure Shape ? Die Geliebte Des Anderen (Shlomo Version) (Shlomo remix)

From Another Mind, founded in 2014, presents its fourth and most capacious release to date. Having started off initially as a South-German Party series, this release sees commanders-in-chief SHDW & Obscure Shape invite back previous guests from the clubnight, just this time using their talents as remixers to breathe new life into the first three much praised From Another Mind records.

The likes of Rodhad, Tale Of Us & Mind Against, Dax J, Konstantin Sibold and Shlomo all feature with contributions staying true to the Label's sound forged initially by its founders, and whether going down an epic or a more banging path, all versions pay respect to that special hypnotism which has found so many supporters.

Veteran Producer James Ruskin masterfully condenses "Nachtblende" down to a loop while Ryan James Ford brings a touch of IDM-ish Bleep Techno to "Augen Der Nacht". Ed Davenport explores his Inland project further, contributing a stepping techno journey which is only matched by Rodhad's version in its sheer vastness.

The release is split in two version EPs, namely FAM004.1 & FAM004.2. Both artworks function by themselves however its full glory shines when held next to each other as the paintings complement each other. More

From Another Mind, originally known as a series of eclectic dance events in Southern Germany, now released its debut EP "Nachtblende". With the four hypnotic and atmospheric tracks, SHDW & Obscure Shape transfer the energy of the nights onto vinyl. The record pays homage to Romy Schneider More

From Another Mind, originally known as a series of eclectic dance events in Southern Germany, now released its third record by SHDW & Obscure Shape. Die Weisse Rose shares a similar hypnotic & atmospheric vibe with its predecessors, which have already gained great support worldwide. Having released three EPs, From Another Mind has proven itself to be a label worth keeping an eye on. The record pays homage to Munich. More

From Another Mind, originally known as a series of eclectic dance events in Southern Germany, now released its second record by SHDW & Obscure Shape. "Wenn Die Masken Fallen" shares a similar hypnotic & atmospheric vibe with its predecessor, the debut EP "Nachtblende", which has already gained great support worldwide. Having released two EPs, From Another Mind has proven itself to be a label worth keeping an eye on. More

From Another Mind continues to establish itself as a vital contemporary techno outlet with a fresh release entitled "Der Weg Des Kriegers EP" from label founders SHDW & Obscure Shape. More

From Another Mind founders SHDW & Obscure Shape return to their imprint with four atmospheric cuts entitled "Die Zunge Des Todes" EP. More

Aussie techno innovator Alpharisc returns to Mutual Rytm for a second standout EP.

Shane Yates, aka Alpharisc, has been living and breathing techno for over 30 years. He first began producing in the mid-90s and has amassed a fine hardware collection that lends his sounds a raw, rugged feel. After breaking through with the Wetmusik party and label collective, he has let his music do the talking and isn't afraid of colouring it with a hint of nostalgia. Previous material has come via several notable labels over the years, but his most recent outings have been on SHDW's Mutual Rytm imprint, with his solo EP 'Ram Face' from 2023 becoming an underground favourite alongside a fine outing as part of the label's 'Federation Of Rytm II' and 'Federation Of Rytm III' compilations. Once again, he returns in style, uncovering an impactful selection of gems across his new 'Remain Seated' EP.

The opener 'Peace Be With You' is a straight-up techno weapon with urgent synth flashes peeling off the groove like a police siren. The drums hit hard in true Alpharisc style before 'Hail' builds on that with a more hard-edge groove topped with frosty waves of white noise that electrify the dance floor. 'Remain Seated' brings a hint of trance-leaning energy with its bright sheets of synth lighting up the driving drums and saw-tooth bass loops. Next, 'Look At This' is another brilliantly forceful techno sound with slamming drums and rusty synth loops, layering melancholic pads up top and adding a cerebral edge, while closer 'In Your Mind' is from the Jeff Mills school of synth-laced and serene deep techno with lush pads radiating cosmic light. As a bonus, digital-only cut 'Expedition' brings some backlit celestial synth work to a rubbery and pummelling drum pattern for pure techno escapism.

Alpharisc 'Remain Seated' EP lands via Mutual Rytm on 8th November 2024.

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Tracklisting
A1 KiNK & Raredub - Time To Change
B1 KiNK & Raredub - Time To Change (Marcel Dettmann Reconstruction)
B2 KiNK & Raredub - Time To Change (Marcel Dettmann Universal Raw Mix)

Sales Note
KiNK & Raredub inaugurate new sub-label Spectra on SHDW's Mutual Rytm, backed by remixes from icon Marcel Dettmann.

Spectra is a new sub-label from contemporary techno powerhouse Mutual Rytm, with the project set to showcase memorable singles alongside feature innovative remixers. The name Spectra reflects the wide range of vibes the label will deal with and the diversity of sounds that emerge through these creative reinterpretations.

Needing little introduction, Bulgaria's KiNK is a synth wizard and live specialist who gets more out of machines than anyone else on Earth. He has dropped endless standout tunes ranging from Running Back to Hypercolour and, more recently, Mutual Rytm with his 'Quantum Shake' EP earlier this year. For this latest outing, he works with fellow Bulgarian talent Raredub, known for his own high-octane, distinctive and dynamic sound that has gained supporters From FJAAK to Paul Woolford.

The original 'Time to Change' has already generated buzz and has been a favourite of DJs from across the electronic realm, bringing a forceful and slamming cut with plenty of machine funk. A buzzy lead synth roams through the mix to bring great menace, while garage-like percussive loops keep things moving over a monstrous bassline.

One of techno's most influential DJs and producers, long-time Berghain resident Marcel Dettmann joins the release to offer his unique touch as the first remixer on the project. His 'Reconstruction' brings subtle nuances as he slows the beats to a more dubbed-out house vibe and layers in bright synths and swirling vocal loops that will get hands in the air. His 'Universal Raw Mix' closes the package in style, delivering a stripped-back roller with freaky vocals and eerie synth details.

KiNK & Raredub 'Time To Change' drops via Mutual Rytm Spectra on 25th October 2024.

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Born and raised in Sicily but now based in Berlin, SLV is known for his innovative approach to techno and its various shades. He has released on revered labels like Soma and received support from key industry players who respect his ability to blend old-school vibes with modern production techniques. Away from the club, he also produces music for film soundtracks, adding a sense of cinematic edge to his techno cuts and is a master of both analog and digital technologies - a true audio engineer who crafts unique, compelling sounds. Having previously featured on the labels Federation of Rytm III compilation, he returns to SHDWs Mutual Rytm imprint with his Night Echoes EP to open up October.

Graustufen opens with punch drum programming and scintillating percussion that dances atop the groove as booming bass brings serious weight down low. The superb Grand Cayman is another potent techno weapon, this time with icy synth atmospheres and eerie moods pervading the tightly programmed drums and bass to deliver an unstoppable force. Voids brings urgent funk with its hunched-over, closely stacked kicks and suspensory pads, which never let up and keep you locked in the moment, while Elastik Pho echoes a classic Detroit sound with its soul-drenched beats and serene, uplifting, beautiful hi-tek style. Last but not least, That Night shows SLVs extraordinary range as it brings some soulful vocal loops and optimistic chords over thunderous drums, which are sure to power dance floors through to euphoria. The EP includes two digital bonus cuts: Basic Uno, which is a raw, percussive and heads-down banger, and Persistence Of Memory, which is stripped-back, glitchy and dubby techno for strobe-lit warehouses.

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Tracklisting
A1 Exos - Voices Of Volcano
A2 Exos - Enter The Danger
A3 Exos - Icebreaker
B1 Exos - Mocoa Beats
B2 Exos - Chicat

Sales Note
Exos returns to Mutual Rytm for second standout EP, 'Icebreaker'.

A renowned global talent, Iceland's Exos was last on Mutual Rytm earlier this year with his successful 'Infrared' EP in April. The debut release on the label's new 10" vinyl X-Series, the EP picked up a wealth of high-profile plays while delivering an absorbing journey through techno soundscapes. The release was followed up by his 'Evil Nation' LP, exploring a harder, more intense approach to techno on his own Planet X imprint, ext to tunes on the likes of Figure and X/OZ. However, he returns with more skilfully crafted ammunition across five stand-out productions and two digital bonus gems on SHDW's burgeoning imprint for a second outing packed with his trademark sound spanning mystic yet driving and impactful spheres.

The package opens up with 'Voices Of Volcano', a powerful track with a monstrous low end and quickened drum kicks that compel you to march in time as the twisted synths peel away up top. 'Enter The Danger' has a steamy feel, as if racing through a humid jungle with the sounds of bird calls and haunting voices next to the loopy percussion and driving rhythms.

The brilliant 'Icebreaker' keeps up the intensity with more precision drumming working dancers into a meditative state while the cosmic synths grow up out of the groove to become bright and unsettling. 'Mocoa Beats' is another warm techno cut that fizzes with synth energy and unfolds like an ancient ritual, while 'Chicat' brings some sensuality to the party with whispered, intimate vocals over more macho and unrelenting drums. Bonus tracks 'Codebreaker' and 'Spliffmatch' round out this high-grade EP of timeless techno in style, offering a unique closing treat for digital purchasers.

Exos 'Icebreaker' EP drops via Mutual Rytm on 6th September 2024.


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Tracklisting
A1 Deetron - Translate Rhythms
B1 Deetron - Cause
B2 Deetron - Move

Sales Note
Swiss techno icon Deetron shows his class with a new four-track EP on Mutual Rytm's sub-label, X.

Deetron is one of the most respected producers of his time. From sleek house to deep techno, he brings impeccable sound designs and melodic elegance to his work while remaining true to his authentic signature sound. He always delivers, whether landing via labels like Ilian Tape under his Soulmate guise or via the likes of Axis and Music Man, and that quality is on show once again as he brings the class on this new EP via the sub-label of SHDW's Mutual Rytm.

First up, 'Translate Rhythms' layers jazzy, de-tuned melodies into a quick and slick deep techno groove. It's a colourful and playful sound with a serious impact. 'Cause' is a more heads-down and moody sound with walls of drums and bass rolling beneath raw percussive loops and tight vocal stabs that ramp up the energy levels. The fantastic 'Move' brings grainy pads, inescapable bass weight and bulky drum loops to make for an immovable wedge of serious concrete techno funk. Last is the digital bonus cut 'Orbit', which heads off to the stars with a deepspace
vibe, swirling pads and minimal drums that tap out a rumbling groove.

Deetron 'Translate Rhythms' drops on Mutual Rytm X on 16th August 2024 as a limited 10" vinyl release.
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Tracklisting
A1 Regent - Delta Hyve
A2 Regent - Ophaal
A3 Regent - Hygea Core
B1 Regent - New Narrative
B2 Regent - Ree 54

Sales Note
Berlin techno talent Regent returns to Mutual Rytm with second 12" release, 'Delta Hyve' - a five-track package lined with peak-time heat.

Regent is an ever-growing voice in the global techno conversation. His tracks have found their way into high-profile sets worldwide and are renowned for their impressive blend of the past and the present. Versatile but always designed for maximum impact, delivering an impressively crafted sound made for powerful systems, this new outing offers a wealth of different moods and grooves for various parts of the night. Returning to SHDW's Mutual Rytm imprint following 2023's successful 'Coral Knife' EP, he unveils a fresh selection of cuts that emphasise his emergence with 'Delta Hyve'.

The title cut 'Delta Hyve' opens up with devastating low ends and busy synths that scurry about the mix to bring dynamism to the rooted drums, while 'Ophaal' delivers thumping kicks and coarse, textured hits scrape and scratch, while supersized hi-hats bring the intensity to all new levels. 'Hygea Core' brings the pressure with hunched-over drum patterns and a sense of urgency in the bass, while creepy pads create an unsettling atmosphere. 'New Narrative' powers on like a train with high-speed rhythms and metallic percussive surfaces, all sweeping you off your feet, before 'Ree 54' switches things up with bright synth flashes and more extraverted grooves that hark back to the machine soul of early Detroit techno.

The first digital bonus, 'Presence', is intense and tinged with the grit of a warehouse and menacing vocals, while 'Rheplica' delivers unrelenting loopy drum funk with shattered glass melodies to close the show.

Regent 'Delta Hyve' EP drops via Mutual Rytm on 2nd August 2024.


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Tracklisting
A1 Steve Redhead - Sincfala
A2 Steve Redhead - Rapidshade
A3 Steve Redhead - Ad Valvas
B1 Steve Redhead - Nusakan
B2 Steve Redhead - Asmodeus

Sales Note
Steve Redhead returns to Mutual Rytm with second searing EP, 'Cosmic Alchemy'.

Belgium pioneer Steve Redhead is the founder of Reda Recordings and has spent his life immersed in techno. His potent take on the genre has appeared on labels like MB Elektronics, Zync, and Primate and has helped define the sound of the underground within his home country over the last 25 years. Returning to SHDW's Mutual Rytm imprint following his well-received 'Eastbook Isle' EP last year, he's back to impress again as he uncovers six new productions with his latest EP, 'Cosmic Alchemy'.

He shows his class from the off here with opener 'Sincfala', bringing the heat with banging drums and rusty percussive loops. Yelping vocals add raved-up intensity, while 'Rapidshare' is energetic and loopy with funky drum patterns and loose-limbed percussive madness. The fantastic 'Ad Valvas' is another straight-up linear banger with tightly woven drums, percussion and lithe synth lines that take you to the heart of the dance floor and 'Nusakan' is a muscular wall of drums and toms with urgent synth stabs powering it forwards with great intensity. 'Asmodeus'
brings a more zoned-out feel with soulful pads and subtle vocals layered over the elastic drums and bass, before digital bonus 'Voice Incident' delivers another perfectly textural techno workout with melancholic motifs and surging synths that bring warm rushes of emotion to the grooves.

Steve Redhead 'Cosmic Alchemy' EP drops via Mutual Rytm on 5th July 2024.


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Tracklisting
A1 KiNK - Unicord
B1 KiNK - Quantum Shake
B2 KiNK - Pitch Down

Sales Note
House and techno's most innovative improviser, KiNK, lands on Mutual Rytm X.

Offering four more thrilling dancefloor weapons, the iconic talent lands on SHDW's new Mutual Rytm X Series to deliver the label's second release.

Legendary Bulgarian artist KiNK is widely regarded as one of the most respected live acts on the global scene. He is a noted tech wizard who creates loops on the fly, crafts killer drums and never fails to hypnotise dancefloors. He has released on almost every influential label of the last 15 years and taken his unrivalled live show to all corners of the world, often drawing on those sets to bring aspects and inimitable qualities from his performances into his tracks. This innovative approach has helped to solidify his reputation as a groundbreaking figure, inspiring a new generation of musicians and producers, and he once again showcases precisely why he's in a league of his own here with a first appearance on SHDW's newly minted Mutual Rytm X.

'Unicord' opens up this new EP in thrilling fashion with sleek, Detroit-style synth loops flashing up top as the heavy, pounding while warm drums drive things down low. 'Quantum Shake' brings 90s energy with new school sound deists - the dubby drums are fast and urgent, the synth craft is deft, and the percussion adds texture to a straight-up but sophisticated techno anthem. 'Pitch Down' then brings fantastically unhinged synth leads that spray and zip about the mix to boggle the brain. Rattling percussive loops and chunky drums keep things moving as those synths get even more wild. To close, the digital bonus 'Highpass Lowpass' is a masterfully muscular cut with rugged bass and taught synths interlinking to mind-melting effect.

KiNK 'Quantum Shake' EP drops via Mutual Rytm X on 21st June 2024.


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Tracklisting
A1 Lars Huismann - Divergence
A2 Lars Huismann - Portal
A3 Lars Huismann - Neural
B1 Lars Huismann - Riot
B2 Lars Huismann - Technician

Sales Note
Lars Huismann drops fourth essential release on Mutual Rytm with 'Catharsis', following his successful 'Sounds From The Past' trilogy.

German producer Lars Huismann has a percussive and groove-driven take on techno that often comes with scintillating melodies and separates him from others amongst the genre. His releases have come on labels such as Dolly and Soma; however, he has also quickly become an essential member of the Mutual Rytm family, having contributed to the label's 'Federation Of Rytm III' VA as well as serving up a trio of forward-thinking EPs in the form of his 'Sounds From The Past' trilogy. Delivering yet more stellar material on SHDW's thriving imprint, his latest EP delivers the newest evolution in his sound while maintaining his signature sonic essence.

The hunched techno funk of 'Divergence' kicks off with plenty of plenty up energy and tight, bouncy synth vamps, while 'Portal' goes deep into a futuristic landscape with static-laced synths and oversized hi-hat ringlets that ramp up the pressure. The mighty 'Neural' is brilliantly functional and linear techno with a playful synth that rides up and down the mix as the sleek and slamming drums race onwards. 'Riot' brings some extra raved-up madness with serrated synths and raw percussive energy, and 'Technician' then slips into a deeper, more paired back sound with liquid synth lashing about the mix as dubby undercurrents power along the punchy rhythms and freaky vocals bring the menace. Digital bonus cuts 'Incognito', a fizzing, busy, textured techno workout, and the machine soul of 'Submerged' close out this high-grade EP in style.



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Tracklisting
A1 Gary Beck - Upside Criminal
A2 Gary Beck - Sambana
B1 Gary Beck - Pepper Track
B2 Gary Beck - Rejected
B3 Gary Beck - Ghost

Sales Note
Gary Beck returns to Mutual Rytm as he unveils a selection of impactful cuts across his debut 12'' on the label, 'Upside Criminal'.

Bek Audio boss and Glasgow techno mainstay Gary Beck has long been a key figure in the scene with a unique sound that has shaped a vast discography. One of the genre's best, with appearances across iconic institutions and collaborations with legendary talents, he is a definitive talent. Returning to SHDW's Mutual Rytm imprint, his new EP lands following his recent appearance on the label's 'Federation Of Rytm III' VA, with the tracks on the package proving as go-to favourites for the label boss over recent months.

''Mutual Rytm has been nothing short of inspirational to me over the last years. I've been playing almost
everything from the label, as the tracks really suited what I was selecting in my DJ sets. The high-quality output really got my juices going to create something for the label, and I was delighted when Marco liked what I sent. This EP signals exactly where I am musically. I'm an absolute sucker for tracks with relentless groovy energy and little breaks, so it felt like a perfect fit. Tracks from the EP have been an absolute joy to play in my sets recently,
and I'm so excited to deliver this EP on my current favourite label, Mutual Rytm.'' - Gary Beck.

The powerful 'Upside Criminal' kicks off with hammering drums and pounding hits that create an inescapable wall of sound that will dominate dance floors of any size. There is more loopy energy to 'Sambana' with its ever more jagged synth stabs and fizzing drum textures while 'Pepper Track' is a futuristic techno workout with rattling snares and mutant synth details peeling off the straight-up groove. 'Rejected' is built around trapped vocal fragments that swirl about the mix to a disorientating effect as the high-speed drums and sheet metal synths race onwards, 'while
Ghost' closes out with a subtle sense of uplifting celebration from the synths that rise up through rusty, rickety techno grooves. Digital Bonus 'Variation 6.1' offers another searing and funky techno stomp, once again providing an extra gem for digital purchasers.



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Tracklisting
A1 Exos - Infrared
B1 Exos - Kaldur Klaki
B2 Exos - The Bad

Sales Note
Exos inaugurates the new sub-label on SHDW's Mutual Rytm with four 90s techno cuts, with offshoot imprint X building on the main imprint's DJ-friendly tools to delve deeper into a broader spectrum of electronic music.

Founded in 2022, SHDW's Mutual Rytm label has quickly become one of techno's most supported labels, with wide-reaching love and well-earned hype following a series of carefully curated VA offerings and solo EPs from a wealth of the scene's best. Continuing to push the pace, with more records capturing high-quality, fresh soundscapes, April brings a new project to the mix with the launch of a new sub-label X, with techno pioneer Exos drafted to deliver the first instalment.

Hailing from Iceland, the Planet X boss is a master of crafting perfect dancefloor weaponry. Over the last twenty years, his high-octane sounds have come via vital labels like Figure and X/OZ, never failing to make an impact with both DJs and dancers. Whether dubby or hard, his techno is always authentic and channels the purity of the 90s sound, and he brings this signature sound to four fresh productions across his 'Infrared' EP, marking an impressive debut for both label and artist.

The title cut 'Infrared' opens up the package in style and showcases a track that looks set to be a go-to anthem for many in the months ahead. With searing synth lines and drilling bass, the blistering production delivers a thrilling, high-impact techno sound that will devastate the dancefloor. The well-designed 'Kaldur Klaki' ups the ante even more with tightly coiled loops of drums, rusty hi-hats and stuttering synth lines that canter along with a muscular feel. 'The Bad' is twitchy and paranoid, anxiety-riddled techno that is perfect for dark warehouses and freaky dancers before digital bonus 'DS4BR' lands with a more stripped-back aesthetic with dubby undercurrents and static electricity fizzing across the face of the cut.

Each of the releases on Mutual Rytm X will be available on limited edition, coloured 10" vinyl, hence the Roman numeral X, and Exos' 'Infrared' EP kicks off the series on 19th April ahead of a new wave of killer releases scheduled across 2024.


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Tracklisting
A1 Sonic Propaganda - Native
A2 Sonic Propaganda - Soul Pressure
A3 Sonic Propaganda - Terminal
B1 Sonic Propaganda - Basic Path
B2 Sonic Propaganda - Body Empire

Sales Note
SHDW's Mutual Rytm imprint is back with its third release of 2024, marking a full label debut from Sonic Propaganda with their 'Native' EP.

Sonic Propaganda comes from the collaborative minds of Earwax and Rosati, a pair who favour dark and intense techno sounds and take inspiration from Jeff Mills and Robert Hood. In the studio, they blend analog and digital technologies into smoky warehouse atmospheres and immersive journeys that connect with listeners on an emotive level, and this full EP lands following their contribution to the third instalment of the Mutual Rytm's Federation Of Rytm compilation series in February.

The powerful 'Native' opens up at high speed with tightly coiled drum loops that never let up. Sleek metal percussive sounds peel off the grooves and lock listeners into a perfect state of hypnosis. 'Soul Pressure' is just as absorbing, with a tense bassline keeping you on edge as the train-like drums march under incendiary hi-hat ringlets. There is plenty of perfect machine funk to 'Terminal', which has more rusty synth textures and chopped-up vocal fragments humanising the turbulent grooves. 'Basic Path' brings an extra skip to the kicks as they enter, scuffed up and flowing just above the groove, while vocal pulses and twitchy synth modulations bring the detail. 'Body Empire' closes the vinyl package with a deeper vibe and pensive synths that add warmth and soul to the brilliantly mechanical grooves, while digital bonus 'Acid Riot' closes with squelching acid lines amongst a swell of analog crunch and laser-sharp percussion.

Sonic Propaganda 'Native' drops via Mutual Rytm on 5th April 2024.



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Tracklisting
A1 Raffaele Attanasio - Madrigal
A2 Raffaele Attanasio - Heat
B1 Raffaele Attanasio - Aogiri Tree
B2 Raffaele Attanasio - Stratford Fog
B3 Raffaele Attanasio - South Signatures

Sales Note
Italian artist Raffaele Attanasio kicks off the New Year for Mutual Rytm with his superb 'South Signatures' EP, channelling multiple techno styles into one potent package.

Landing as Raffaele Attanasio's second outing on SHDW's Mutual Rytm label, following his incredible debut 'Quasar' and recent appearance on the third instalment of the label's Federation Of Rytm compilation, the EP is a showcase of an exciting artist with a new school take on techno while bringing real respect for the roots of his sound. He has played live on stage with the legendary Jeff Mills, and is involved in several other musical projects in different genres but reserves his finest techno for his own name.

'Madrigal' opens the EP, with Attanasio crafting an apocalyptic anthem composed of one sound, the Nord Wave 2 synthesizer and a pumping groove. It is pure dance floor heat with unrelenting drums that lock in the crowd. The brilliant 'Heat' then brings tribalism, with a powerful rolling groove peppered with chord stabs that bring it to life. 'Aogiri Tree' features rousing drums that emerge from the undergrowth and accompany the macabre lead synth. Its mischievous notes hint at hidden danger and keep you on your toes.

Keeping the energy high, 'Stratford Fog' delivers a battle between drums and the constantly pulsing bass. Edgy chord stabs and raw percussion make for a breathtaking groove that never lets up and keeps you utterly engaged. The title track is a laser-focused production that harks back to the golden age of Neapolitan techno with a perfectly designed groove, before digital bonus 'Eleven' brings hints of stylish Detroit techno with its lush chords and arpeggiated saw bassline, creating a continuous flow right to the last beat.

Raffaele Attanasio 'South Signatures' drops via Mutual Rytm on 1st March 2024.

SHDW's vision at Mutual Rytm was always to present a cohesive yet varied musical experience, and Federation Of Rytm III does exactly that.



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Tracklisting
A1 Levzon - Intense
A2 Roll Dann - That Will Never Happen
A3 Hemka - Fragrance
B1 Chlär - Inside Us
B2 Alarico - Push To Select
B3 Glaskin - Cutta
C1 SLV - Liminal Space
C2 Lars Huismann - Conductor
C3 Selective Response - Reality Unfolds
D1 Dax J - Celestial Dub
D2 Colin Benders - Siren
D3 Alpharisc - Spiral Down
E1 Seelow - Instant Welfare
E2 LDS - Maxidub
E3 Blawan - Don't You Dare Squawk At Me
F1 Regent - Cyberian
F2 ANNE - Outrun
F3 Sera J - Machinery
G1 Chontane - Pyrax
G2 The Advent - Randomized
G3 Stigmata - Mortal Vados
H1 Gary Beck - Fold
H2 Non Cycling - Nothing Left
H3 Measure Divide - Lemm
I1 William Artist - Form
I2 Raffaele Attanasio - Pointbreak
I3 Sonic Propaganda - White Paper
J1 Invexis - Artefakt
J2 Jancen - Voluptuous
J3 Z.I.P.P.O - Broken Game

Sales Note
Limited Edition: Box with holographic hot foil logo print and five printed inner sleeves - No Repress

SHDW's label, Mutual Rytm hits a notable milestone at the start of 2024 as it turns two years old and hits its 20th release. To mark the occasion, the carefully curated compilation 'Federation Of Rytm III' arrives on February 2nd with a 30-track 5 x 12" boxset vinyl release and a further 6 digital bonus tracks.

Mutual Rytm is synonymous with serious, no-frills techno. It is a go-to for the world's most influential DJs and a home to some of the scene's most innovative producers. Over the last two years, it has explored several shades of sound, always with high-quality production and forward-thinking styles. A fine balance has always been struck between new and emerging talents and established names with plenty more to say, and that is the case on this collection which features the legendary likes of Blawan, Gary Beck, Colin Benders, The Advent and Dax J next to ANNE, Alarico, JakoJako, Chlar, LDS and many more.

Founder SHDW says, "I've poured my heart into curating a compilation of 36 tracks, a reflection of my deepest musical passions. The lineup is stacked with incredible artists, and it captures the label's essence - a fusion of artists spanning generations, united by a shared spirit and aesthetic, creating a seamless 'mutual rhythm'."

Although all 36 tracks stand alone as high-grade and club-ready dynamite, they also collectively form a versatile listening experience thanks to how they've been carefully assembled into a perfectly sequenced journey.

Each one dives into a different nuance within the world of techno and there is a range of moods from dark and driving to more energising and uplifting. The collection not only shows how far Mutual Rytm has come in a short space of time but also that it remains in a constant state of evolution and has a bright future ahead in 2024 and beyond.

SHDW's vision at Mutual Rytm was always to present a cohesive yet varied musical experience, and Federation Of Rytm III does exactly that.



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Tracklisting
A1 ANNE - Heal My Soul
A2 ANNE - Turn Back Time
A3 ANNE - Zephyrus
B1 Sera J - Blue Dancers
B2 Sera J - Common People
B3 Sera J - Delusion

Sales Note
SHDW's label Mutual Rytm rounds out another year with 'Symbiosis' - an excellent split EP from Greek artists ANNE & Sera J, featuring six fresh cuts and four digital bonuses.

The release title comes from the Greek word 'Symbiosis', which means living closely together for a significant period and can be used to speak of a mutually beneficial interaction between individuals. And that is precisely what can be said of ANNE and Sera J, who have grown through life as partners and, more recently, as musical peers. This split EP is their first release alongside one another, and one that presents the story of their innermost feelings, with their full label debut following fine contributions to the label's 'Federation Of Rytm II' compilation back in March.

ANNE has had a busy few years making her mark with potent techno on labels such as Soma, Hardgroove, and Life In Patterns, while Sera J is just as revered for his tunes on the likes of Out Of Place, DifferentSound and more.

ANNE takes the A-side, firstly with the fiery diva vocals and thumping techno drums of 'Heal My Soul' and then the more physical and banging drum programming of 'Turn Back Time'. It's a big, metallic cut with rumbling bass and sleek synths peeling off the groove, while her final track 'Zephyrus' has plenty of infectious bounce and eerie pads to keep dancers on their toes.

On the flip, Sera J kicks off with the electrifying synth stabs and cantering techno power of 'Blue Dancers' and then offers up 'Common People' as twisted leads and slamming drums all run through with alien sound effects and bright stabs. To close, 'Delusion' is a psychedelic cut with roaming leads that bring plenty of cosmic energy to the unrelenting kicks.

In addition, each artist serves up a pair of digital bonuses: ANNE with the hurried funk of 'Serene' and loopy intensity of 'Victor', and Sera J with the liquid, dubby dynamics of the hard-hitting 'Intensity' and monstrous energy of 'Bodies Don't Lie.'

ANNE & Sera J 'Smybiosis' drops via Mutual Rytm on 1st December 2023.




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Tracklisting:
A1 Alpharisc - Formation Filter
A2 Alpharisc - Circus Fear
A3 Alpharisc - Hot Morning
B1 Alpharisc - Ram Face
B2 Alpharisc - The Old One

Sales Note
Mutual Rytm is back with more searing techno, this time in the form of a welcome return to wax from venerated Aussie mainstay Shane Yates, aka Alpharisc.

Melbourne's Alpharisc has been making music since 1993, initially with humble tools like the Commodore 64 and Amiga 500, before putting together and building a growing collection of hardware. He has always maintained a somewhat reclusive character since breaking through with the city's renowned Wetmusik party and label collective following the release of his first EP in 1999 and has always kept a nostalgic touch in his music alongside his signature Alpharisc sound. Following a string of digital EPs on the likes of Future Retro Music, this is his first vinyl 12" in two decades as he returns to Mutual Rytm following his appearance on the Federation Of Rytm II compilation, serving up his bustling 'Ram Face' EP.

The powerful 'Formation Filter' opens up with a powerful techno groove built from rock-solid kicks and rumbling bass that will rattle walls. Snares and synth rolls peel off the drums as they race onwards and grow ever wilder and more intense for maximum destruction. 'Circus Fear' is another stylish linear workout with lithe synth details and loopy drums peppered with coarse claps and hits to up the ante, while 'Hot Morning' brings even more fire with its big, churning percussive clatter and supersized hi-hats racing along over more bulky beats.

Things get more unhinged with the hard-edged 'Ram Face', which has pummelling drums and scraping hits forming a barrage of industrialised sound; a lead from a SID chip will bring a smile to those who are familiar with its sound playing a hypnotic lead over the top. The final track on wax, 'The Old One', builds up cosmic tension, haunting synth lines and howling solar winds into another peak time techno weapon. As always with the label, a digital bonus cut 'Hairyman' provides a special treat and delivers another frosty techno roller with pent-up energy and compelling drum programming.

Alpharisc 'Ram Face' drops via Mutual Rytm on 3rd November 2023.




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Tracklisting:
A1 Regent - Brickyard
A2 Regent - Driftage
B1 Regent - Nocta
B2 Regent - Coral Knife
B3 Regent - Encoder

Sales Note
Berlin techno talent Regent is next up on Mutual Rytm as he returns with a compelling new five-track 12" titled 'Coral Knife', plus a digital bonus cut.

Regent emerged only in 2020, but has fired out quality tunes on Planet Rhythm Records, Arts Collective and Warg Records since then. His already extensive catalogue of standout releases combines tough and rapid grooves with cerebral qualities and a real depth of writing and sound design, resulting in timeless yet avant-garde material optimised for the dance floor. For that reason, he is one of the new forces emerging from the German capital and why his next EP, 'Coral Knife', sees him find a perfect home on SHDW's Mutual Rytm imprint as he returns with his first 12" on the label following his appearance on the 'Federation Of Rhythm II' compilation earlier this year.

The tight and funky 'Brickyard' opens with a high-speed groove and a taught synth riff darting about the mix to seductive effect, before 'Driftage' gets more raw with rickety percussion over bulky drums. The synths are dubby and liquid as they get smeared about the mix to bring dynamism to the groove. There is then darkness and heaviness to 'Nocta' with weighty kicks and alluring vocal sounds drifting through the late-night airwaves.
Title track 'Coral Knife' cannot fail to sweep dancers off their feet with its fizzing synths and smooth drum loops overlaid with icy hi-hats that get you into a meditative state, while 'Encoder' layers up bleeps and squeaks over a signature linear groove that is detailed with muffled vocals and distant cosmic stars.

As always with Mutual Rytm, the package rounded out with an impressive digital bonus in the form of 'Multiversa' - a driving and thunderous techno cut that closes the show emphatically.

Regent 'Coral Knife' drops via Mutual Rytm on 6th October 2023.




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Tracklisting:
A1 Alarico - 0 Kelvin
A2 Alarico - One More
B1 Alarico - Asma
B2 Alarico - Sunburn
B3 Alarico - Drops Of You

Sales Note
Alarico returns to Mutual Rytm with his 'Drops Of You' EP, packed with his mind-bending signature rhythms while focussing on a more minimal and atemporal approach than before.

Milan-based artist Alarico has firmly arrived on the world stage in recent years. Taking cues from the harder realms of techno of the 90s, he adds his own quirky rhythms and quickened sense of groove to showcase his modern take on the genre. Building on material dropping via his own Katana Records, with high-profile support from bigname DJs across the scene, he breaks new ground again here on this compelling new EP as he returns to SHDW's label Mutual Rytm with 'Drops Of You'.

Excellent opener '0 Kelvin' races out of the blocks with wiry synths and percussion that sounds like knives being sharpened, all over tight, punchy techno drums. 'One More' then gets more twisted with freaky synth line scurrying about the mix while hammering hits and bouncy drum programming races onwards into an unknown future.

'Asma' slips into a deeper but no less impactful groove - the tightly coiled drum funk is overlaid with soulful vocal whispers and militant snares that cannot fail to sweep dancers away. Next, the slick 'Sunburn' keeps the pace high and is another warp-speed techno excursion with bold drum patterns and dry hi-hats cutting up the beats. It's a fulsome sound fleshed out with great synth detail and euphoric vocal cries, before closer 'Drops Of You' layers broken beats, vocal snippets and psychedelic synth colours into an intense and emotional workout.

Alongside the vinyl cuts, three digital-only offerings are also loaded into this one as a trio of treats in the form of 'Sino', 'What For' and 'Erased', with each track harnessing pacy, energetic rhythms, a mix of bright and murky sonics, and tunnelling grooves crafted for maximum impact.

Alarico 'Drops Of You' drops via Mutual Rytm on 8th September 2023




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(MR DAN'S MAGIC WAND, GILLIGAN MOSS MIX, TONY ALLEN BONUS BEAT, PLUS ORIGINAL) REPRESS OF THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY REISSUE AND REMASTER OF 'LA RITOURNELLE' ALONGSIDE ITS TWO MOST SUCCESSFUL REMIXES AND TONY ALLEN'S ISOLATED DRUM TRACK FROM THE ORIGINAL SONG.

Tracklist
A1. La Ritournelle
A2. La Ritournelle (Mr Dan's Magic Wand Mix)

B1. La Ritournelle (Gilligan Moss Mix)
B2. La Ritournelle (Tony Allen Bonus Beat)


La Ritournelle is undoubtedly Sebastien Tellier's biggest song. Since its first release in 2003, it kept growing and circulating throughout the world year after year like a virus. Considered by many as the ultimate love anthem of the 21st century, the song has now infected numerous hearts and lovers, and gained a classic status.

The song is made of 7 epic minutes of a sensual and mesmerizing piano hook, with the late afro-beat maestro Tony Allen on drums, lush romantic strings, Philippe Zdar on the mix, and a heartbreaking lyric at the center of the song that goes: Oh nothing's going to change my love for you / I wanna spend my life with you So we make love on the grass under the moon / No one call tell, damned if I do Forever journey on golden avenues / I drift in your eyes since I love you I got that beat in my veins for only rule / Love is to share, mine is for you Since the release, we have received countless love messages.

One from a famous DJ who told us he heard the tune while driving on the freeway and had to stop on the side of the road, in tears. Many couples have asked whether Tellier would perform "La Ritournelle" at their wedding ceremony. It was sampled by The Weeknd for the song on "Kiss Land" (2013) and used in several long feature films. "La Ritournelle": often been copied and covered, but rarely equaled.
For the first time, Record Makers is releasing the song with its most successful remixes on one EP, and a special gift in memory of his genius: Tony Allen's bonus beat, the original drum track, a must have for DJs. Also included: Gilligan Moss' mix, an atmospheric remix and a streaming hit, and Mr Dan's Magic Wand mix, the chorus/verse version of "La Ritournelle", basically Unfinished Sympathy pt. II, according to the NME.

“Epic, gorgeous dance track we can't, can't, can't stop playing” - The Sunday Times

“A big balearic goosebump of stirrings, rolling pianos and funky drumming, No with this odd male vocal that heightens its strange psychedelic vulnerability. („) One day, Frenchman Sébastien Tellier's slow-burning club anthem "La Ritournelle" will be huge. (...) Basically, we're talking "unfinished Sympathy pt. II"." - NME (2005)


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LTD Repress
Severed Heads are one of the longest standing bands to have emerged from the Australian post-punk and experimental scene. They began in Sydney in 1979, and were an early outfit to incorporate elements of 'industrial' noise-generation, tape cutting & looping and electronic sound synthesis. As the project developed, song-structures and vocals were employed in a more-or-less recognizable mutant electro pop style. After many line-up changes featuring Gary Bradbury and psychedelic guitarist Simon Knuckey, Severed Heads became the solo vehicle for composer Tom Ellard.

In 1983 they released a C-60 cassette called “Since The Accident” that grabbed the attention of Ink Records, a subsidiary of Virgin in the UK. Ellard added a throwaway track at the last minute to fill out the cassette, not wanting to leave an unseemly gap on a C60 tape. This track, “Dead Eyes Opened” was catchy enough to get a lot of airplay on the main non-commercial radio station in Sydney. The band was asked to make this song into a 12” single. For this extended version, Tom Ellard and producer Patrick Gibson went to M Squared studio and passed the multitracked recordings through various EQ's and delays. “Dead Eyes Opened” features samples from a radio program narrated by Edgar Lustgarten, a crime journalist from England, referencing a double murder case that occurred in 1924. The rhythms are made by a TR-808 drum machine and an SH-1 synthesizer. A KORG PolySix was used for strings and additional atmospheric elements. The lead solo was a Casiotone run through an Octaver foot pedal. On the B-side are two solo compositions “Bullet” and “Mount” that Ellard recorded at Terse Tapes in 1982.

All songs are remastered for vinyl by George Horn at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley. Housed in the original jacket featuring the iconic photograph of a girl with a painted face wrapped in some cloth by Juilee Pryor. Each copy includes a fold-out newsprint poster with a large photo of the band wearing Art Unit skull shirts on one side and liner notes and press clippings on the other. 30 years later Severed Heads are still paving the way for powerful, imaginative, and challenging music. More

Tracklisting
A1 Ø [Phase] - Shape Shifter
A2 Ø [Phase] - Number Zero
B1 Ø [Phase] - Living Proof
B2 Ø [Phase] - Deluge More

MÚSICA PARA BOLICHE takes us to Argentina. Along the journey, we will discover that Maradona is not the only thing we have in common with our cousins across the ocean.
Let’s dive into the 1980s Buenos Aires scene, a time straddling dictatorship and disco music, in search of dusty gems forgot-ten even in their homeland.
The EP contains four tracks spanning Italo, electro, and proto-house, carefully selected by Jack Bulgaro, restored, and edited by DJs from Italy and Argentina.

A1 - Harari - Si No Pagan
A2 - Lance - Yo Quiero A Lucy
B1 - Marta Paradise - Calling (Give Me Your Da-Da)
B2 - Alan Strani - Tension Salsable More

Tracklisting
A1 Linear System - Unlocated Call
A2 Linear System - Unknown Coordinates
B1 Soul Lazh - Breda
B2 Soul Lazh - IJplein

Sales Note
A pleasure to present the second ep of Purveyance, Galicia based record label.
A1 A2 Linear System, Return with Strong tracks hypnotic with raw vocals.
B1 B2 Soul Lazh, Forcefull winding synth lines focused for dancefloor.
Four weapons for proper big room Techno.

Release date 08/11/24
Black Vinyl 140gr
Mastering - Hardgroove
Art Work - Yolanda Go More

Second Pressing, Fanzine is now printed on the innersleeve.

With two critically acclaimed albums and a swathe of award-winning production turns under their belt, Ana Frango Elétrico present their most confident and accomplished work to date: Me Chama De Gato Que Eu Sou Sua / Call Me They That I’m Yours. Gesturing to a tradition of Brazilian boogie music, but bouncing with modern pop ebullience, the album sees the Rio artist evolve from a captivating upstart into a surefooted scene leader in full stride.

At just 25, the prolific artist and producer has already garnered worldwide admirers. Ana’s sophomore Little Electric Chicken Heart was nominated at the 2020 Latin Grammys. Since then, standalone singles have received the WME ‘Best Music Producer’ Award, recognising Ana’s deep passion for music production – a passion which has led to collaborations with nascent Brazilian stars Dora Morelenbaum, Illy and Sophia Chablau. Most recently, Ana was hailed for their co-production of Bala Desejo’s 2022 Latin Grammy-winning album Sim Sim Sim.

The new album finds Ana at their most assured and full voiced. Album opener “Electric Fish”, with funky bass and shimmering backing vocals, sets a buoyant tone. “Boy of Stranger Things” is its bombastic counterpart. It’s the grooviest Ana has ever sounded. And the most brazen. Lyrically, where Ana was once oblique on personal matters, they are now forthright – lucidly exploring their gender identity, citing accessible cultural references, and often singing in English.

“I started this album in 2021 with the intention of showing, in means of sound, understandings and feelings about queer love, subjectively exposing myself,” the non-binary artist states – before qualifying that though “feeling was its driving force, the album is really about musical production."

“There’s so many references to different decades,” Ana explains. “Seventies drums with eighties processing … Going back, getting beyond … Testing the limits of organic sounds”. Characteristically playful, on Me Chama, Ana takes vivid and rewarding detours through funk-inflected R&B (“Dela”) and art pop (“Dr. Sabe Tudo”). “Nuvem Vermelha” is a cinematic chanson with lush strings that recalls Arthur Verocai. Then, “Coisa Maluca” loafs with the indie insouciance of Canadian slacker Mac Demarco. Later, “Let's Go Before Again”, is a full-on drum machine workout evocative of Stereolab.

“Even if people don't find my own references here, they'll find theirs,” observes Ana. “Maybe that’s this record’s biggest goal.” More

Tracklisting
A1 Minimum Syndicat - Return to Vetrem-4
A2 Minimum Syndicat - Marauders
B1 Minimum Syndicat - Morphic Funk
B2 Minimum Syndicat - Silicunt Valley
B3 Minimum Syndicat - Balk

Sales Note
This is music from another timeline...
First chapter of the "Mutant Signal" serie featuring Minimum Syndicat
in mutant electro / industrial cyberfunk mode.
Uncompromising sounds for dissident dancefloors. More

Every now and again, a record carves itself an indelible place in the history of a place, a scene or a genre, all under its own steam – without a big budget, without a press campaign, without mainstream radio, just by hitting all the right notes at the right moment. Maybe you had to have been there to really feel it – locked into the pirate stations, a regular at the right clubs, or leaning on the counter in the right records shops on a Saturday afternoon – but if you were, there are some tunes that will always vibrate with the underground cultural energy of their time. Bô'vel's 1996 Manchester streetsoul anthem 'Check 4 U' is one of those tunes. The kind of song that makes the over-used phrase 'underground classic' mean something again, it effortlessly distills the sounds of its era into one of the most undeniable, genre-spanning cuts of the mid-1990s. The song resonates with the regional flavours of UK sound-system culture: the sweet club sound of Manchester's vibrant streetsoul scene, the dubwise hip-hop throb of the Bristol movement, and the bass-lore of the reggae sound systems whose wisdom stretched from Leeds to South London and beyond. Built around a humid kick drum and a bin-busting bass pulse arranged in head-nodding syncopation, the song is blessed with an instantly memorable harmonised hook, and perfectly set off by Bô'vel's crystalline vocals. Upful, stepping and tinged with melancholy, it remains one of the most well-loved and highly sought-after UK streetsoul sides. The three mixes of 'Check 4 U' appeared as the a-side of a blank-label five-track 12". It was Bô'vel's second release, after a soulful five-track EP issued in 1995 on her own Bô'vel Records had been a surprise success. Produced by Kev Waddington, that initial record had come about almost by accident after a chance encounter in Manchester's HQ Studios, as Bô'vel recalls today: 'We were making these five tracks because we were having bit of an argument with radio not being able to play what they wanted, really, only what the record labels wanted… they never had anybody coming through properly, because everything was pretty much underground. We were making records, like really pop stuff, to take the piss… So in the studio one day, this guy came in – all I know is that his was name was Nigel. And he came in and said, I want to put that five-track EP out with you. We just don't know who the hell he was to this day, really. And he said, you've got to do it 50/50, it's going to be £1000. So I said okay – I just trusted him. I gave him 500 quid. He gave me 1000 records. He just dropped them at the studio. I picked them up and then I went into Manchester city centre and gave it to a couple of DJs on underground radio.' Pirate radio loved it. With play on stalwart Manchester pirates like Buzz FM and Soul Nation, the EP immediately blew up. Bô'vel took the record into Fat City Records, Manchester's premier outlet and distributor for soul, hip-hop and dance, who took a batch, quickly sold out and took several hundred more copies; it eventually transpired that a large quantity were selling to Japan, where the combination of soul smarts and classy production had been caught by discerning ears. Elsewhere, friends distributed the record by hand in London and Birmingham, working them through UK's then burgeoning network of independent dance music shops. The warm reception the record received encouraged Bo'vel to return to the studio for sessions that would become 'Check 4 U'. The EP had been issued under a Bô'vel Records imprint, but she had sold it to Fat City without disclosing that she was the artist – 'I said, "There's this singer, she's great, she's done this cheesy stuff, try it, it's a bit Kylie Minogue". He said "oh, give us 300", and then he had some more.' For the next release, she decided to keep things completely minimal. 'The next one, I said, right, let's just put it out as a white label, and if people like it they like it, they don't have to see who we are or anything.' Though punitive legislation and overexposure had tamed rave culture, and the inflated status of superstar DJs had pushed once underground scenes fully into the mainstream, dance music culture in mid-1990s Britain still retained a certain feral energy. There was still a groundswell of vital local scenes and rapidly changing musical styles, and – combined with local record shops – clubs and pirate radio were still the chief arbiters of influence. 'In the 90s, pirate radio just played the best music. I mean, you couldn't really get music like that anywhere. The same as you couldn't get music like that [being played] in the Reno, which was very different,' remembers Bô'vel, referring to the legendary Moss Side soul club, an underground institution from 1962 until its closure in 1986. 'That's where music really started for me, going to clubs like the Reno at the age 15, 16, 17, and going to places like the Nile [upstairs from the Reno], which was all reggae, you know – that's really where the beats came for me.' The production on the new record would reflect these influences more than the EP had been able too. 'I liked a big bassline,' the singer reflects. 'There's a big bassline there on the five-track EP, 'I Can't Get By', which is a really, really good song, but they just could not get the bass – I was so gutted when that came back…if they'd have shown us the master we'd have said no.' These problems were to be avoided on 'Check 4 U' by the involvement of producer Uriah Gale. 'We already had the tune, and Uriah came on board, and I said, it's just not soulful enough. I was working with Kev Waddington, and he said "I just can't do it." So when Uriah came along, the bass was there, but he tidied it all up and made it really cool, and he was tremendous on the harmony,' she recalls. 'Out of all the mixes, his was the best. He was incredible to work with, and also incredibly talented. With alternate mixes of 'Life Changes You' from the 1995 EP as the b-side, 'Check 4 U' was issued with blank blue labels and sent out with a DJ one-sheet describing Bô'vel as 'Manchester's favourite soul Diva'. 2000 copies were pressed, and the record was distributed by Jetstar. It quickly became another pirate radio hit. 'Soul Nation and Buzz FM did support me from the very start [along with] every single DJ on Manchester radio,' she recalls, 'They're my biggest fans, the DJs here, I've got to big them up!' Manchester's support was mirrored by pirates around the UK. 'We had the support of radios across the country – I just could not believe it. So we went on a tour… We would go to the pirate stations, do an interview, then do a gig – that's how the gigging came about… gigging in Birmingham, Huddersfield, Liverpool, London – I've got so much respect for the pirate radios down there. They were brilliant… We used to take all my stuff straight to London,' she remembers. 'Each radio was doing pretty much the same thing, in their own style, with their own beats. Like, when I went down to Bristol, I showed them the EP and 'I Check 4 U' and they said, hey girl, you've got the Bristol beat!' But her core audience was at home in Manchester. 'London did support me a lot, but not like my home town – they loved me as I love them… Manchester supported me through and through, to this very day,' she remembers. Performing in mid-1990s Manchester was not always straightforward, though: 'In Manchester, it was kind of hard to do gigs, because there was a bit of gang warfare. So, you know, that was a problem. You'd be doing a gig and they'd all be there in their [bulletproof] vests, you know, Cheetham Hill and Moss Side, and it was a bit of a nightmare. And because I was more Manchester side, even though I went to school in Cheetham Hill, I was with a guy from Moss Side. So it was pretty hard gigging in Manchester, I had a bit of a hard time.' Nevertheless, 'my gigs were packed to the rafters…I wasn't scared because I knew I had protection. The gigs were fantastic, here in Manchester and everywhere, and I'm glad and very grateful to be able to say that.' A further single followed – the garage-flavoured 'Earthling', made with producer Ben Stansfield – but this would be her final release. 'My life changed,' she remembers. 'I had a split… I was just bringing my daughter up. I used to live in the countryside, and I was having a bit of a different life… I just spent a lot of time writing when I split up – I couldn't sing, it was like my voice wouldn't work. I was just thinking all the time, and not speaking. So I was just speaking through my music… I just became a writer, and I was more looking for other people to sing the [songs], you know? Because there's a lot of talent here in Manchester.' However, she retained access to a studio, and over time she began to record again, working with various producers and amassing a large amount of material. It is this unreleased material that we collect on Life Changes – nine unheard Bô'vel songs from the period 1997-2008(dates?), selected from her own archive. Until now, none of this unreleased work has been heard. Not an artist to be constrained by genre, the music showcases Bô'vel's exploration of a wide range of styles, from the dubbed-out downtempo of 'My Man' or 'I Wanna Be Free' to the updated streetsoul of 'Let Down And Liar', via the breakbeat hype of 'Do It Your Way' and the straight-ahead reggae vibe of 'Daydreamer'. This unreleased music is presented alongside the unfadeable 'I Check 4 U' and two classic streetsoul cuts from her 1995 EP, 'Life Changes You' and 'Coming Back'. The common denominator across the album is of course Bô'vel herself: a singer of rare timbral clarity whose musical vision has determined the sound of every record she has made, a prolific and personal song-writer in the UK soul tradition, and the artist behind one of the most celebrated underground soul tunes of the pirate radio era. Still most definitely someone to check for. More