1
Riccardo De Polo - Ascension
2
Riccardo De Polo - Wahnstimmung
3
Riccardo De Polo - Inception
Tracklist:
(1) Riccardo De Polo – Ascension (DE-Q20-24-00011)
(2) Riccardo De Polo – Wahnstimmung (DE-Q20-24-00012)
(3) Riccardo De Polo – Inception (DE-Q20-24-00013)
The epochal energy of "Ascension" captivated us from the very first moment, making it an ideal intro track. With its cinematic soundtrack reminiscent of "Vangelis", Italian producer Riccardo De Polo has crafted a sublimely ethereal experience that transports listeners into the vast expanse of space. As stars and planets drift by, the music beckons us to explore further, to surrender ourselves to the moment. The low strings serve as a booster until the rocket engine roars to life and the spaceship disappears into another galaxy.
Subsequently the polyrhythmic sequence of "Wahnstimmung" spirals abstractly far below the cerebral cortex. The driving bass drum, paired with shakers and percussion, propels the composition forward at a steady pace. The tension intensifies, painting a picture of liquid metal pouring into a melting pot.
Pure, stripped-down techno as we know it from its origins.
"Inception" hypnotically takes you into a deep state of trance, engulfing you in a tribe's energy. It’s truly a classic Cocoon sound that has its very own place in Sven's sets. The vigor is palpable, the shimmering sequence will make the dust visibly glow above the open-air dance floors while the air begins to shimmer. Noisy snare drums heat the narrowed arrangement to the absolute boiling point. This is the energy we have been looking for!
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
(1) Riccardo De Polo – Ascension (DE-Q20-24-00011)
(2) Riccardo De Polo – Wahnstimmung (DE-Q20-24-00012)
(3) Riccardo De Polo – Inception (DE-Q20-24-00013)
The epochal energy of "Ascension" captivated us from the very first moment, making it an ideal intro track. With its cinematic soundtrack reminiscent of "Vangelis", Italian producer Riccardo De Polo has crafted a sublimely ethereal experience that transports listeners into the vast expanse of space. As stars and planets drift by, the music beckons us to explore further, to surrender ourselves to the moment. The low strings serve as a booster until the rocket engine roars to life and the spaceship disappears into another galaxy.
Subsequently the polyrhythmic sequence of "Wahnstimmung" spirals abstractly far below the cerebral cortex. The driving bass drum, paired with shakers and percussion, propels the composition forward at a steady pace. The tension intensifies, painting a picture of liquid metal pouring into a melting pot.
Pure, stripped-down techno as we know it from its origins.
"Inception" hypnotically takes you into a deep state of trance, engulfing you in a tribe's energy. It’s truly a classic Cocoon sound that has its very own place in Sven's sets. The vigor is palpable, the shimmering sequence will make the dust visibly glow above the open-air dance floors while the air begins to shimmer. Noisy snare drums heat the narrowed arrangement to the absolute boiling point. This is the energy we have been looking for!
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
More records from Cocoon Recordings
1
Damiano von Erckert - Steam (Staub Mix)
2
Damiano von Erckert - Dad Was Not Around
3
Damiano von Erckert - Roh
4
Damiano von Erckert - Fantazia 93
Tracklist: (1) Damiano von Erckert – Steam (Staub Mix) (DE-Q20-24-00015)
(2) Damiano von Erckert – Dad Was Not Around (DE-Q20-24-00016)
(3) Damiano von Erckert – Roh (DE-Q20-24-00017)
(4) Damiano von Erckert – Fantazia 93 (DE-Q20-24-00018)
Long overdue, we are happy to welcome Damiano von Erckert to Cocoon Recordings with his debut single, bringing late summer vibes that were well worth the wait. Damiano's lovely energy shines through in this EP, resulting in music that blends soulful character with his signature house sound.
“Steam (Staub Mix)” lifts your spirits from the very first beat, and the summery vibe of the housey Rhodes piano brings a smile to your face. Yet, the track retains a somewhat wistful and melancholy feel. Skillful intonation gives the break a jazzy feel, it's this friction that makes it special. Von Erckert showcases his skill with this playful arrangement, sure to have dancers' hands reaching skyward. The second track “Das Was Not Around” is a masterclass in purism, where simplicity meets profound emotion. Swirly synth pads unfold to create a dreamy, immersive atmosphere, pulling listeners into its depths. Despite its introspective title, a sense of hopefulness permeates the track, as if reaching for light through the shadows. Damiano’s approach allows every element to shine, making the deep grooves and ethereal sounds feel both intimate and expansive. It’s a journey of reflection yet imbued with a quiet optimism that lingers long after the final beat fades.
The essence of reduced Chicago drumming is brilliantly embodied in “Roh”, channeling a raw, stripped-back rhythm that strikes with precision and purpose. This forms the bedrock of a composition that feels timeless. The track carries an unmistakable grandeur, echoing the majestic hymns of certain legendary French artists. As the beats develop, they evoke a profound sense of reverence and nostalgia, seamlessly blending classic house influences with a modern edge. It's a track that honors the roots while confidently advancing the frontiers of contemporary house music. "Fantazia 93" is a nostalgic dive into a ‘90s House vibe, channeling the essence of that unforgettable era with authenticity. Damiano's signature sounds are front and center, infusing the track with a unique touch that’s fresh while reminiscent of classic house anthems. The track exudes an Ibiza after-hour feeling, transporting listeners to those sun-drenched days where time seems to stand still. It’s a sonic journey that feels like sunbeams warming the skin, bathing the senses in a radiant, feel-good energy that resonates long after.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
(2) Damiano von Erckert – Dad Was Not Around (DE-Q20-24-00016)
(3) Damiano von Erckert – Roh (DE-Q20-24-00017)
(4) Damiano von Erckert – Fantazia 93 (DE-Q20-24-00018)
Long overdue, we are happy to welcome Damiano von Erckert to Cocoon Recordings with his debut single, bringing late summer vibes that were well worth the wait. Damiano's lovely energy shines through in this EP, resulting in music that blends soulful character with his signature house sound.
“Steam (Staub Mix)” lifts your spirits from the very first beat, and the summery vibe of the housey Rhodes piano brings a smile to your face. Yet, the track retains a somewhat wistful and melancholy feel. Skillful intonation gives the break a jazzy feel, it's this friction that makes it special. Von Erckert showcases his skill with this playful arrangement, sure to have dancers' hands reaching skyward. The second track “Das Was Not Around” is a masterclass in purism, where simplicity meets profound emotion. Swirly synth pads unfold to create a dreamy, immersive atmosphere, pulling listeners into its depths. Despite its introspective title, a sense of hopefulness permeates the track, as if reaching for light through the shadows. Damiano’s approach allows every element to shine, making the deep grooves and ethereal sounds feel both intimate and expansive. It’s a journey of reflection yet imbued with a quiet optimism that lingers long after the final beat fades.
The essence of reduced Chicago drumming is brilliantly embodied in “Roh”, channeling a raw, stripped-back rhythm that strikes with precision and purpose. This forms the bedrock of a composition that feels timeless. The track carries an unmistakable grandeur, echoing the majestic hymns of certain legendary French artists. As the beats develop, they evoke a profound sense of reverence and nostalgia, seamlessly blending classic house influences with a modern edge. It's a track that honors the roots while confidently advancing the frontiers of contemporary house music. "Fantazia 93" is a nostalgic dive into a ‘90s House vibe, channeling the essence of that unforgettable era with authenticity. Damiano's signature sounds are front and center, infusing the track with a unique touch that’s fresh while reminiscent of classic house anthems. The track exudes an Ibiza after-hour feeling, transporting listeners to those sun-drenched days where time seems to stand still. It’s a sonic journey that feels like sunbeams warming the skin, bathing the senses in a radiant, feel-good energy that resonates long after.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
Sven Väth - L'Esperanza (Original Album Version)
2
Sven Väth - L'Esperanza (Hardspace Mix)
Tracklist: (1) Sven Väth – L'Esperanza (Original Album Version) (DE-Q20-24-00009)
(2) Sven Väth – L'Esperanza (Hardspace Mix) (DE-Q20-24-00010)
L'Esperanza (Hope) is undoubtedly one of Sven Väth's greatest hits. After more than 30 years, we are very proud to revive this timeless masterpiece for you on Cocoon Recordings. The artwork of the A-side is from the original 12" cover, which was released on Eye Q Records back then. Anyone who knows Sven recognizes that he has always felt free and evolved in terms of appearance and style. That's why we instantly loved the idea of Sven re-staging himself in the same pose but in a new guise. This picture disc documents a 30-year-long transformation, both sonically and visually. It is a beautiful journey through time and a true collector’s item.
A1: L'Esperanza (Original Album Version) 1993 Produced in 1993, this track has certainly not lost any of its charm over the years. Lovely string sounds envelop you in a cloud of comfort, while the filtered downbeat emphasizes this feeling of lightness. The catchy tune of the playful synthesizer melody invites you to close your eyes and start dreaming. Let yourself fall into a deep state of meditation and trance. The airy electric bassline comes with a charismatic power and opens a door to the subconscious, calling on you to dive deep. The atmosphere of this composition sits somewhere between drifting through the sea and hovering through space.
B1: L'Esperanza (Hardspace Mix) 2023 A revised version of the "Hope Will Move Mountains Mix" by "Visions Of Shiva" occurs on the B-Side in the form of Len Faki’s hardspace mix. Len is renowned for his elegant edits and refined modifications as part of his side project, this time delivering a stripped-down 135 BPM version that fits perfectly into the current zeitgeist. A club version of "L'Esperanza" that radiates a high level of euphoric energy, constantly pushing the rhythm patterns forward. All hands go up in the air at the latest when the piano part starts in the middle section. Let’s go back to the good old days of the original 90s trance sound since the cheerful arpeggio synth melody takes us along.
What is certain, you can't tell that either version has been around for 30 years.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
(2) Sven Väth – L'Esperanza (Hardspace Mix) (DE-Q20-24-00010)
L'Esperanza (Hope) is undoubtedly one of Sven Väth's greatest hits. After more than 30 years, we are very proud to revive this timeless masterpiece for you on Cocoon Recordings. The artwork of the A-side is from the original 12" cover, which was released on Eye Q Records back then. Anyone who knows Sven recognizes that he has always felt free and evolved in terms of appearance and style. That's why we instantly loved the idea of Sven re-staging himself in the same pose but in a new guise. This picture disc documents a 30-year-long transformation, both sonically and visually. It is a beautiful journey through time and a true collector’s item.
A1: L'Esperanza (Original Album Version) 1993 Produced in 1993, this track has certainly not lost any of its charm over the years. Lovely string sounds envelop you in a cloud of comfort, while the filtered downbeat emphasizes this feeling of lightness. The catchy tune of the playful synthesizer melody invites you to close your eyes and start dreaming. Let yourself fall into a deep state of meditation and trance. The airy electric bassline comes with a charismatic power and opens a door to the subconscious, calling on you to dive deep. The atmosphere of this composition sits somewhere between drifting through the sea and hovering through space.
B1: L'Esperanza (Hardspace Mix) 2023 A revised version of the "Hope Will Move Mountains Mix" by "Visions Of Shiva" occurs on the B-Side in the form of Len Faki’s hardspace mix. Len is renowned for his elegant edits and refined modifications as part of his side project, this time delivering a stripped-down 135 BPM version that fits perfectly into the current zeitgeist. A club version of "L'Esperanza" that radiates a high level of euphoric energy, constantly pushing the rhythm patterns forward. All hands go up in the air at the latest when the piano part starts in the middle section. Let’s go back to the good old days of the original 90s trance sound since the cheerful arpeggio synth melody takes us along.
What is certain, you can't tell that either version has been around for 30 years.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
DeFeKT x Extrawelt - Cell Sync
2
DeFeKT x Extrawelt - In The Space Of…
10“ Vinyl with hand-stamped cover and labels
Tracklisting:
A1. DeFeKT x Extrawelt – Cell Sync (DE-Q20-23-00029)
B1. DeFeKT x Extrawelt – In The Space Of… (DE-Q20-23-00030)
After their debut 12" on Feel My Bicep and their contribution "Halluzinelle" to the Dots And Pearls 7 compilation, DeFeKT and Extrawelt are joining forces again.
In the act of remembering the true spirit of no-nonsense, raw, and direct techno, they created these two masterfully executed, original, and timeless cuts.
Each time they get together they come up with something truly unique, blending their styles effortlessly and seamlessly. Their expertise, knowledge, and recognition of our music's history just radiates out of this release. Both tracks immediately captured our souls here at Cocoon headquarters and we couldn't be more excited to put them out right away on this beautiful, limited, hand-stamped 10" vinyl.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
Tracklisting:
A1. DeFeKT x Extrawelt – Cell Sync (DE-Q20-23-00029)
B1. DeFeKT x Extrawelt – In The Space Of… (DE-Q20-23-00030)
After their debut 12" on Feel My Bicep and their contribution "Halluzinelle" to the Dots And Pearls 7 compilation, DeFeKT and Extrawelt are joining forces again.
In the act of remembering the true spirit of no-nonsense, raw, and direct techno, they created these two masterfully executed, original, and timeless cuts.
Each time they get together they come up with something truly unique, blending their styles effortlessly and seamlessly. Their expertise, knowledge, and recognition of our music's history just radiates out of this release. Both tracks immediately captured our souls here at Cocoon headquarters and we couldn't be more excited to put them out right away on this beautiful, limited, hand-stamped 10" vinyl.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
Gregor Tresher - Black Halo
2
Gregor Tresher - Phantom Dancer
Tracklist:
(1) Gregor Tresher – Black Halo (DE-Q20-23-00015)
(2) Gregor Tresher – Phantom Dancer (DE-Q20-23-00016)
Cocoon Recordings' next 12” vinyl comes from a well-known face. No introduction needed as nobody less than Gregor Tresher once again delivers a superb and surprising pair of tracks.
“Black Halo” is down-the-line and perhaps one of the catchiest tracks by Gregor Tresher.
The wobbling driving bassline builds up a rising tension that increases through the vast, detuned, and powerful string parts appearing to extend out to light years, reaching far beyond. Zaps drive the rhythm forward while rushing cymbals push the groove and weld everything together to absolute unity. For Gregor, techno and club culture have certain transcendental qualities, “Black Halo” is concerned with these sentiments and tells an ambivalent story. The onset of bliss oscillates between melancholy and hope, making it an exuberant roller coaster of emotions. A classic Gregor Tresher track, which perfectly represents Gregor’s signature sound!
“Phantom Dancer” literally pulls you onto the dance floor. Discharging beats, which hit you heavily but pleasant. The atmosphere violently evolves with a twisted noise-like signal sound and gets even more brute through the low-pitched filter vocals. An exceptionally deep techno production by Gregor Tresher, which will definitely come to full fruition in the clubs at peak time.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
(1) Gregor Tresher – Black Halo (DE-Q20-23-00015)
(2) Gregor Tresher – Phantom Dancer (DE-Q20-23-00016)
Cocoon Recordings' next 12” vinyl comes from a well-known face. No introduction needed as nobody less than Gregor Tresher once again delivers a superb and surprising pair of tracks.
“Black Halo” is down-the-line and perhaps one of the catchiest tracks by Gregor Tresher.
The wobbling driving bassline builds up a rising tension that increases through the vast, detuned, and powerful string parts appearing to extend out to light years, reaching far beyond. Zaps drive the rhythm forward while rushing cymbals push the groove and weld everything together to absolute unity. For Gregor, techno and club culture have certain transcendental qualities, “Black Halo” is concerned with these sentiments and tells an ambivalent story. The onset of bliss oscillates between melancholy and hope, making it an exuberant roller coaster of emotions. A classic Gregor Tresher track, which perfectly represents Gregor’s signature sound!
“Phantom Dancer” literally pulls you onto the dance floor. Discharging beats, which hit you heavily but pleasant. The atmosphere violently evolves with a twisted noise-like signal sound and gets even more brute through the low-pitched filter vocals. An exceptionally deep techno production by Gregor Tresher, which will definitely come to full fruition in the clubs at peak time.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
Sven Väth - A1. Sven Väth – Silvi's Dream (Damiano Von Erckert Remix)
2
Sven Väth - A2. Sven Väth – What I Used To Play (Roman Flügel Remix)
3
Sven Väth - B1. Sven Väth – The Worm (Robag Wruhme Remix)
4
Sven Väth - B2. Sven Väth – We Are (Jonathan Kaspar Remix)
5
Sven Väth - C1. Sven Väth – Feiern (Krystal Klear Remix)
6
Sven Väth - C2. Sven Väth – Mystic Voices (Benjamin Damage Remix)
7
Sven Väth - D1. Sven Väth – Nyx (PAS Deep Heet Remix)
8
Sven Väth - D2. Sven Väth – Butoh (Robert Hood Remix)
9
Sven Väth - E1. Sven Väth – Nyx (Planetary Assault Systems Remix)
10
Sven Väth - E2. Sven Väth – Being In Love (Harald Björk Remix)
11
Sven Väth - F1. Sven Väth – Catharsis (Mano Le Tough Remix)
12
Sven Väth - F2. Sven Väth – Silvi's Dream (Florian Hollerith Remix)
- 3x12“ gatefold vinyl – with turquoise foil embossing
Tracklisting:
LP
1. (A1) Sven Väth – Silvi‘s Dream (Damiano Von Erckert Remix)
2. (A2) Sven Väth – What I Used To Play (Roman Flügel Remix)
3. (B1) Sven Väth – The Worm (Robag Wruhme Remix)
4. (B2) Sven Väth – We Are (Jonathan Kaspar Remix)
5. (C1) Sven Väth – Feiern (Krystal Klear Remix)
6. (C2) Sven Väth – Mystic Voices (Benjamin Damage Remix)
7. (D1) Sven Väth – Nyx (PAS Deep Heet Remix)
8. (D2) Sven Väth – Butoh (Robert Hood Remix)
9. (E1) Sven Väth – Nyx (Planetary Assault Systems Remix)
10. (E2) Sven Väth – Being In Love (Harald Björk Remix)
11. (F1) Sven Väth – Catharsis (Mano Le Tough Remix)
12. (F2) Sven Väth – Silvi‘s Dream (Florian Hollerith Remix)
The life-affirming energy at the heart of Sven Väth‘s recent album Catharsis is revisited, reanimated,
and remixed by some of the most exciting names around, closing the circle on a superlative burst of
recent work that has not only given us the epic original LP, but also the extraordinary compilation What
I Used To Play.
Roman Flügel, Benjamin Damage, Robert Hood, Planetary Assault Systems, Mano Le Tough… do we
need to go on? This hand-picked list of luminaries have answered the call and certainly don’t
disappoint, each fusing their signature sound with Sven‘s DNA to create a wild, uncompromising
companion piece to the original album.
True to form, the running order is very much rooted on the dance floor, Silvi‘s Dream, revisited by
Damiano von Erckert, explodes like a Balearic sunrise. Dreamy strings with a touch of Detroit create a
lovely atmosphere while the beautiful piano sound goes right into your heart and appears as if you
could feel the warm sun on your skin. Roman Flügel’s acidic rework of What I Used To Play is a
homage to the 80s and the early sound of electronic music which creates nostalgic feelings and offers
a greatly produced retro soundscape à la Kraftwerk. Staying close to the original, but with the perfect
amount of spin, it’s a symbiotic interplay of synthetic bass pads, and a tiny bell melody. Robag
Wruhme’s cranking minimal funk takes us down The Worm-hole. A concise interference sound builds
up sustained tension, tangled but structured, deep and yet driving. Robag took over the deep and dirty
rhythms of the original perfectly and delivers a versatile piece. This opening salvo oozes quality and
sets things up perfectly for the electrified celebration of hi-octane technology come.
Jonathan Kaspar‘s growling interpretation of We Are provides a melancholic atmosphere with
fascinating percussion parts. Zaps shoot through the air like small laser pistols while we let ourselves
be carried away by the bass, the frisky vocal stutter effect is the icing on the cake. Speeding things up,
the euphoric trance that engulfs Krystal Klear’s epic version of Feiern. Expansive strings increase up
to ecstasy and guide us to a love-filled unity. This remix is sure to be an excellent peak-time smasher
for the open-air season. On to a wild ride of pure techno with Benjamin Damage, who delivers a dry
and uncompromising Berlin Techno version of Mystic Voices. Harder pace but the string synthesizer
harmony brings light to an otherwise gloomy environment. Next up is Luke Slater’s PAS Deep Heet
Mix to add a retro nineties vibe to proceedings on Nyx. Entering a rough space with gigantic clap
impacts, we are blessed with straightforward Techno. Shimmering and spooling, this groove hits the
mark. Then, as if it was ever in doubt, Sven‘s lofty place in the techno firmament is underlined by a
peak-time contribution by non-less than Detroit legend Robert Hood. Unmistakable, you must
recognize the signature Robert Hood drive on Butoh. Chord stabs fulfill the Detroit feeling with offtaking string elements and high-energy vocal transformations. It’s a warm embrace that triggers
emotions. Planetary Assault Systems then blasts things ever deeper into the cosmos on a second
outing of Nyx. Reduced and to the point but of course, true to form, with powerful tribal percussion
parts and intensive cutting hi-hats.
From there on in, the collection gradually re-enters the atmosphere, burning with a phosphorescent,
melancholy glow. Harald Björk extrapolates Being In Love into a hypnotic groove for the early hours. A
playful and atmospheric electronica interpretation to soothe our souls due to disharmonious synth
pads and a dreamy deformation of the original melody. Mano Le Tough harnesses the ethno-rhythms
and brooding energy of Catharsis into a low-slung, tribal stomper. Anomalous organ parts ring out and
link up with a trance-like sequence, summer feelings arouse as you feel like you can almost smell
Ibizan air. The collection comes full circle with a second equally seductive interpretation of Silvi‘s
Dream by Florian Hollerith. Stripped-down and hypnotic, the homage to Sven's girlfriend Silvi is
extended as a reverence to Sven himself. Sven's profound vocals clearly infuse time and space and
leave a forever-lasting memory of love.
By accident or design, it somehow leaves us with the reassuring sense that, although this specific part
of the journey may be drawing to a close, the mission of the man behind it all most definitely isn't.
written & produced by: Sven Väth & Gregor Tresher
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
Tracklisting:
LP
1. (A1) Sven Väth – Silvi‘s Dream (Damiano Von Erckert Remix)
2. (A2) Sven Väth – What I Used To Play (Roman Flügel Remix)
3. (B1) Sven Väth – The Worm (Robag Wruhme Remix)
4. (B2) Sven Väth – We Are (Jonathan Kaspar Remix)
5. (C1) Sven Väth – Feiern (Krystal Klear Remix)
6. (C2) Sven Väth – Mystic Voices (Benjamin Damage Remix)
7. (D1) Sven Väth – Nyx (PAS Deep Heet Remix)
8. (D2) Sven Väth – Butoh (Robert Hood Remix)
9. (E1) Sven Väth – Nyx (Planetary Assault Systems Remix)
10. (E2) Sven Väth – Being In Love (Harald Björk Remix)
11. (F1) Sven Väth – Catharsis (Mano Le Tough Remix)
12. (F2) Sven Väth – Silvi‘s Dream (Florian Hollerith Remix)
The life-affirming energy at the heart of Sven Väth‘s recent album Catharsis is revisited, reanimated,
and remixed by some of the most exciting names around, closing the circle on a superlative burst of
recent work that has not only given us the epic original LP, but also the extraordinary compilation What
I Used To Play.
Roman Flügel, Benjamin Damage, Robert Hood, Planetary Assault Systems, Mano Le Tough… do we
need to go on? This hand-picked list of luminaries have answered the call and certainly don’t
disappoint, each fusing their signature sound with Sven‘s DNA to create a wild, uncompromising
companion piece to the original album.
True to form, the running order is very much rooted on the dance floor, Silvi‘s Dream, revisited by
Damiano von Erckert, explodes like a Balearic sunrise. Dreamy strings with a touch of Detroit create a
lovely atmosphere while the beautiful piano sound goes right into your heart and appears as if you
could feel the warm sun on your skin. Roman Flügel’s acidic rework of What I Used To Play is a
homage to the 80s and the early sound of electronic music which creates nostalgic feelings and offers
a greatly produced retro soundscape à la Kraftwerk. Staying close to the original, but with the perfect
amount of spin, it’s a symbiotic interplay of synthetic bass pads, and a tiny bell melody. Robag
Wruhme’s cranking minimal funk takes us down The Worm-hole. A concise interference sound builds
up sustained tension, tangled but structured, deep and yet driving. Robag took over the deep and dirty
rhythms of the original perfectly and delivers a versatile piece. This opening salvo oozes quality and
sets things up perfectly for the electrified celebration of hi-octane technology come.
Jonathan Kaspar‘s growling interpretation of We Are provides a melancholic atmosphere with
fascinating percussion parts. Zaps shoot through the air like small laser pistols while we let ourselves
be carried away by the bass, the frisky vocal stutter effect is the icing on the cake. Speeding things up,
the euphoric trance that engulfs Krystal Klear’s epic version of Feiern. Expansive strings increase up
to ecstasy and guide us to a love-filled unity. This remix is sure to be an excellent peak-time smasher
for the open-air season. On to a wild ride of pure techno with Benjamin Damage, who delivers a dry
and uncompromising Berlin Techno version of Mystic Voices. Harder pace but the string synthesizer
harmony brings light to an otherwise gloomy environment. Next up is Luke Slater’s PAS Deep Heet
Mix to add a retro nineties vibe to proceedings on Nyx. Entering a rough space with gigantic clap
impacts, we are blessed with straightforward Techno. Shimmering and spooling, this groove hits the
mark. Then, as if it was ever in doubt, Sven‘s lofty place in the techno firmament is underlined by a
peak-time contribution by non-less than Detroit legend Robert Hood. Unmistakable, you must
recognize the signature Robert Hood drive on Butoh. Chord stabs fulfill the Detroit feeling with offtaking string elements and high-energy vocal transformations. It’s a warm embrace that triggers
emotions. Planetary Assault Systems then blasts things ever deeper into the cosmos on a second
outing of Nyx. Reduced and to the point but of course, true to form, with powerful tribal percussion
parts and intensive cutting hi-hats.
From there on in, the collection gradually re-enters the atmosphere, burning with a phosphorescent,
melancholy glow. Harald Björk extrapolates Being In Love into a hypnotic groove for the early hours. A
playful and atmospheric electronica interpretation to soothe our souls due to disharmonious synth
pads and a dreamy deformation of the original melody. Mano Le Tough harnesses the ethno-rhythms
and brooding energy of Catharsis into a low-slung, tribal stomper. Anomalous organ parts ring out and
link up with a trance-like sequence, summer feelings arouse as you feel like you can almost smell
Ibizan air. The collection comes full circle with a second equally seductive interpretation of Silvi‘s
Dream by Florian Hollerith. Stripped-down and hypnotic, the homage to Sven's girlfriend Silvi is
extended as a reverence to Sven himself. Sven's profound vocals clearly infuse time and space and
leave a forever-lasting memory of love.
By accident or design, it somehow leaves us with the reassuring sense that, although this specific part
of the journey may be drawing to a close, the mission of the man behind it all most definitely isn't.
written & produced by: Sven Väth & Gregor Tresher
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
Raxon - Robotalia
2
Raxon - Kryptonite
Tracklist:
(1) Raxon – Robotalia (DE-Q20-23-00013)
(2) Raxon – Kryptonite (DE-Q20-23-00014)
Release Info:
Next up is an overdue reunion with a familiar face. After his outstanding contribution to Cocoon Compilation S and his first solo EP on Cocoon Recordings, Raxon is back with a more than equally fascinating sound. The Egyptian-born and now Barcelona-based artist is back on it again, delivering two tracks that will take you on a journey through the depths of robotic soundscapes.
Intricate beats, hypnotic synthesizer melodies, deep bassline grooves, and distinctive EFX sounds create Raxon’s very special signature sound.
Straight drum programming paired with chirping percussions takes us away to embark on a travel through space and time while distinctive claps poke through a futuristic nebula of floating and shifting sequences. The twisted melody of “Robotalia” carries us to a parallel dimension of machine sound and if you listen closely, you can hear the robots’ screwing and sawing. Warping bleeps and mechanical effects complete the robotic feeling. Raxon’s understanding of structures and architectural abilities are reflected through the arrangement, slowly increasing to ecstasy.
“Kryptonite” scores with alien soundscapes. Stuttering vocals are the questions, while futuristic and dramatic chord stabs are the direct answer. A straight, radiant sound appears as an electronic trombone from outer space, offensively supporting the driving bassline. The symbiotic interplay between the euphoric synthesizer hook line and the relentless beat with pushing sharp hi-hats visualize powerful images in one's mind's eye. Suddenly the beat stagnates and results in a morphing break going head over heels developing a start-stop pitch effect that not only builds up tremendous tension but also bears an increased risk of melting your brain. We just love tape delay!
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
(1) Raxon – Robotalia (DE-Q20-23-00013)
(2) Raxon – Kryptonite (DE-Q20-23-00014)
Release Info:
Next up is an overdue reunion with a familiar face. After his outstanding contribution to Cocoon Compilation S and his first solo EP on Cocoon Recordings, Raxon is back with a more than equally fascinating sound. The Egyptian-born and now Barcelona-based artist is back on it again, delivering two tracks that will take you on a journey through the depths of robotic soundscapes.
Intricate beats, hypnotic synthesizer melodies, deep bassline grooves, and distinctive EFX sounds create Raxon’s very special signature sound.
Straight drum programming paired with chirping percussions takes us away to embark on a travel through space and time while distinctive claps poke through a futuristic nebula of floating and shifting sequences. The twisted melody of “Robotalia” carries us to a parallel dimension of machine sound and if you listen closely, you can hear the robots’ screwing and sawing. Warping bleeps and mechanical effects complete the robotic feeling. Raxon’s understanding of structures and architectural abilities are reflected through the arrangement, slowly increasing to ecstasy.
“Kryptonite” scores with alien soundscapes. Stuttering vocals are the questions, while futuristic and dramatic chord stabs are the direct answer. A straight, radiant sound appears as an electronic trombone from outer space, offensively supporting the driving bassline. The symbiotic interplay between the euphoric synthesizer hook line and the relentless beat with pushing sharp hi-hats visualize powerful images in one's mind's eye. Suddenly the beat stagnates and results in a morphing break going head over heels developing a start-stop pitch effect that not only builds up tremendous tension but also bears an increased risk of melting your brain. We just love tape delay!
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
Metal Master (Sven Väth) - Spectrum (Bart Skils & Weska Reinterpretation)
2
Metal Master (Sven Väth) - Spectrum (Original Mix)
Tracklist:
(A1) Metal Master – Spectrum (Bart Skils & Weska Reinterpretation)
(B1) Metal Master – Spectrum (Original Mix)
Release Info:
black 12-inch vinyl + cover with rainbow silver foil
You may have already been waiting for this one. After the limited splattered one-sided vinyl edition, this 12-inch pressing comes with the remastered original mix on the B-side.
The original, the second release on the label Harthouse at the time, is an all-time classic and went down in the music history of Frankfurt. Thirty years later, the track by Sven Väth and A.C. Boutsen has not lost its shine and will certainly continue to provide goosebump moments.
Techno is all too often described as timeless but while most of it eventually evaporates into the ether, there are some riffs, melodies, and breakdowns that remain etched into our collective consciousness forever. Legendary Frankfurt label Harthouse is home to more than its fair share of such moments, but you must go all the way back to 1992, the opening strains of the Metal Master classic ‘Spectrum’ to locate the source for this special single-sided remix release.
The common denominator and catalyst to all this is of course Sven Väth, co-creator of ‘Spectrum’ and founder of both Harthouse and Cocoon Recordings, while the independent variables in the equation are Bart Skils and Weska, who lend their considerable talent and vision to this sublime makeover.
Coming on like rolling thunder, sparks fly immediately as crackling vocoder licks, silky ride cymbals and soaring arpeggios build an atmosphere taut with anticipation before giving way to that iconic melody - a love letter from Frankfurt to Ibiza, wrought from metal, drenched in distortion yet pulling at the heartstrings - the perfect soundtrack to any chemical sunrise.
It‘s a powerful re-interpretation that pays the warmest respects to the original and, despite the relentless groove, there is still room for sentimentality - an invitation to momentarily pause for thought and reflect on the journey so far as the sumptuous breakdown washes over the dance-floor. But not for long, the simmering bass line soon emerges from the euphoria and the track kicks in again, driving us forward towards a new, uncharted spectrum of possibilities.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
(A1) Metal Master – Spectrum (Bart Skils & Weska Reinterpretation)
(B1) Metal Master – Spectrum (Original Mix)
Release Info:
black 12-inch vinyl + cover with rainbow silver foil
You may have already been waiting for this one. After the limited splattered one-sided vinyl edition, this 12-inch pressing comes with the remastered original mix on the B-side.
The original, the second release on the label Harthouse at the time, is an all-time classic and went down in the music history of Frankfurt. Thirty years later, the track by Sven Väth and A.C. Boutsen has not lost its shine and will certainly continue to provide goosebump moments.
Techno is all too often described as timeless but while most of it eventually evaporates into the ether, there are some riffs, melodies, and breakdowns that remain etched into our collective consciousness forever. Legendary Frankfurt label Harthouse is home to more than its fair share of such moments, but you must go all the way back to 1992, the opening strains of the Metal Master classic ‘Spectrum’ to locate the source for this special single-sided remix release.
The common denominator and catalyst to all this is of course Sven Väth, co-creator of ‘Spectrum’ and founder of both Harthouse and Cocoon Recordings, while the independent variables in the equation are Bart Skils and Weska, who lend their considerable talent and vision to this sublime makeover.
Coming on like rolling thunder, sparks fly immediately as crackling vocoder licks, silky ride cymbals and soaring arpeggios build an atmosphere taut with anticipation before giving way to that iconic melody - a love letter from Frankfurt to Ibiza, wrought from metal, drenched in distortion yet pulling at the heartstrings - the perfect soundtrack to any chemical sunrise.
It‘s a powerful re-interpretation that pays the warmest respects to the original and, despite the relentless groove, there is still room for sentimentality - an invitation to momentarily pause for thought and reflect on the journey so far as the sumptuous breakdown washes over the dance-floor. But not for long, the simmering bass line soon emerges from the euphoria and the track kicks in again, driving us forward towards a new, uncharted spectrum of possibilities.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
Label:Cocoon Recordings
Cat-No:CORLP052
Release-Date:03.02.2023
Genre:Techno
Configuration:12x12BOX Excl
Label:Cocoon Recordings
Cat-No:CORLP052
Release-Date:03.02.2023
Genre:Techno
Configuration:12x12BOX Excl
1
Sven Väth - (A1) Logic System - Unit
2
Sven Väth - (A2) Kraftwerk - Computerwelt (2009 Remastered)
3
Sven Väth - (B1) Whodini - Magic's Wand
4
Sven Väth - (B2) Rocker's Revenger - Walking on Sunshine (feat. Donnie Calvin)
5
Sven Väth - (C1) Klein & MBO - Dirty Talk (European Connection)
6
Sven Väth - (D1) Liaisons Dangereuses - Los Niños Del Parque
7
Sven Väth - (D2) Yello - Bostich
8
Sven Väth - (E1) The The - Giant
9
Sven Väth - (F1) The Residents - Kaw-Liga
10
Sven Väth - (G1) Clan Of Xymox - Stranger
11
Sven Väth - (G2) A Split - Second - Flesh
12
Sven Väth - (H1) Severed Heads - Dead Eyes Opened
13
Sven Väth - (H2) The Weathermen - Poison!
14
Sven Väth - (I1) New Order - Blue Monday
15
Sven Väth - (J1) Anne Clark - Our Darkness
16
Sven Väth - (J2) 16 Bit - Where Are You?
17
Sven Väth - (K1) Phuture - We Are Phuture
18
Sven Väth - (K2) Model 500 - No UFO's (Vocal)
19
Sven Väth - (L1) Frankie Knuckles feat. Jamie Principle - Your Love
20
Sven Väth - (L2) Quest - Mind Games (Street Mix)
21
Sven Väth - (M1) Jasper van't Hof - Pili Pili
22
Sven Väth - (N1) Guem Et Zaka Percussion - Le Serpent
23
Sven Väth - (N2) Hugh Masekela - Don't Go Lose It Baby
24
Sven Väth - (O1) Sly & Robbie - Make 'Em Move
25
Sven Väth - (O2) Brian Eno - David Byrne - Help Me Somebody
26
Sven Väth - (P1) Primal Scream - Loaded (Andy Weatherall Mix)
27
Sven Väth - (Q1) The Ecstasy Club - Jesus Loves The Acid
28
Sven Väth - (R1) Foremost Poets - Reason To Be Dismal?
29
Sven Väth - (S1) Lhasa - The Attic
30
Sven Väth - (S2) A Guy Called Gerald - Voodoo Ray
31
Sven Väth - (T1) M/A/R/R/S - Pump up the Volume - USA 12" Mix
32
Sven Väth - (T2) Bobby Konders - Nervous Acid
33
Sven Väth - (U1) Meat Beat Manifesto - Helter Skelter
34
Sven Väth - (V1) Raze - Break 4 Love
35
Sven Väth - (W1) Sueño Latino with Manuel Goettsching performing E2-E4 -- (Paradise Version)
36
Sven Väth - (X1) OFF - Electrica Salsa
- exclusive 12x12" vinyl box set with silver hot foil embossing
- twelve individual colored disco sleeves with distinct full-size portraits of Sven from the 80s
Tracklisting:
LP
1. (A1) Logic System - Unit
2. (A2) Kraftwerk - Computerwelt (2009 Remastered)
3. (B1) Whodini - Magic's Wand
4. (B2) Rocker's Revenger - Walking on Sunshine (feat. Donnie Calvin)
5. (C1) Klein & MBO - Dirty Talk (European Connection)
6. (D1) Liaisons Dangereuses - Los Niños Del Parque
7. (D2) Yello - Bostich
8. (E1) The The - Giant
9. (F1) The Residents - Kaw-Liga
10. (G1) Clan Of Xymox - Stranger
11. (G2) A Split - Second - Flesh
12. (H1) Severed Heads - Dead Eyes Opened
13. (H2) The Weathermen - Poison!
14. (I1) New Order - Blue Monday
15. (J1) Anne Clark - Our Darkness
16. (J2) 16 Bit - Where Are You?
17. (K1) Phuture - We Are Phuture
18. (K2) Model 500 - No UFO's (Vocal)
19. (L1) Frankie Knuckles feat. Jamie Principle - Your Love
20. (L2) Quest - Mind Games (Street Mix)
21. (M1) Jasper van't Hof - Pili Pili
22. (N1) Guem Et Zaka Percussion - Le Serpent
23. (N2) Hugh Masekela - Don't Go Lose It Baby
24. (O1) Sly & Robbie - Make 'Em Move
25. (O2) Brian Eno - David Byrne - Help Me Somebody
26. (P1) Primal Scream - Loaded (Andy Weatherall Mix)
27. (Q1) The Ecstasy Club - Jesus Loves The Acid
28. (R1) Foremost Poets - Reason To Be Dismal?
29. (S1) Lhasa - The Attic
30. (S2) A Guy Called Gerald - Voodoo Ray
31. (T1) M/A/R/R/S - Pump up the Volume - USA 12" Mix
32. (T2) Bobby Konders - Nervous Acid
33. (U1) Meat Beat Manifesto - Helter Skelter
34. (V1) Raze - Break 4 Love
35 (W1) Sueño Latino with Manuel Goettsching performing E2-E4
- Sueño Latino (Paradise Version)
36. (X1) OFF - Electrica Salsa
Sven Väth - What I Used To Play
For this uniquely personal retrospective spread over twelve vinyl discs, Sven Väth takes us back to the early days of his DJ career. On What I Used To Play we meet great pioneers of electronic music, gifted percussionists, obscure wave bands, and innovative producers of a bygone 'new electronic' era. Rough beats and irresistible grooves from the identification stage of house, techno, and acid remind us not just how far electronic music has evolved over the past four decades, but how great it was to dance to EBM, techno, and house for the very first time.
If there is one protagonist of the electronic music scene who has remained curious, innovative and at the very cutting edge of music for over four decades, it's Sven Väth. His multi-layered artist albums and Sound of the Season mix compilations have been defining the genre for over two decades, and even today, he is constantly on the lookout for the next top tune to add to the highlights of his next set. At least, that's the case when he's not producing them himself as an artist or remixer. "Actually, it's always been part of my DNA to think ahead," and nothing had been further from his mind than looking back at his past, but when in spring of 2020 the international DJ circuit had to be scaled down to virtually zero, the 'restless traveler' suddenly had time. Time to stop and reflect on "how it actually was back then, at the very beginning of my career..."
"It was a great trip and with every track, beautiful memories came flooding back".
In the London apartment, he had just moved into, Sven has set up a "little music room", where he cocooned himself for several days, "to look way back for the first time and review my musical journey through the eighties, so to speak."
The interim result was six thematically oriented playlists with a grand total of 120 tracks from 'early 80s' to 'Balearic late 80s', together with excursions into afrobeat, European new wave, and EBM sounds and a few epochal techno/house tracks from the USA in between. From these 'Best of Sven Väth's favorites', the project What I Used To Play crystallized. Sven remembers how the Cocoon team reacted to his proposal: "They found the idea of making a compilation out of it MEGA from the beginning and everyone said 'Sven, go for it', but then, of course, the work really started, namely, to clear the rights and to get clean sounding masters of the up to 40-year-old tracks. There was also disappointment, of course. We couldn't clear certain titles because the rights holders in the USA had fallen out with each other or simply disappeared from the scene. In short, it wasn't easy, but now I can safely say we got the most important tracks."
Finally, after two years of research, curation, design, and administrative fine-tuning, the "little retrospective" from 1981 to 1990 is available. The exquisitely packaged, and three-kilo heavy box set is not only physically impressive, WIUTP is also the definitive record of Sven Väth's musical development. On each of the twenty-four sides of vinyl, you can trace track by track, what influenced him during which phase, and how he took off as a DJ from his parents' Queen's Pub straight into the spotlight at Dorian Gray. There and at Vogue (later OMEN), Sven became the style-defining player in the DJ booth that he still is today.
1981 - 1990: Future Sounds of Now
In the early eighties, the crowd in clubs like Vogue and Dorian Gray danced to what nowadays we call 'dance classics' - mainly disco, funk, soul, and chart pop. It was up to a new generation of DJs, including Sven Väth, the youngest protagonist in the Rhine-Main area at the time, to create their own club-ready music mix. Good new tracks and potential floor-fillers were rarities that had to be sought out and found, in order to prove oneself worthy.
Without MP3s, internet streaming, or other digital download possibilities, music didn't just gravitate to the DJ, instead, it had to be tracked down. In well-stocked record stores in Frankfurt and Wiesbaden or even in Amsterdam, London, or New York, Sven and friends sourced the material for countless magical nights. On WIUTP we can follow Sven's very personal journey through this wild, innovative era in which synth-pop, funk, hip-hop, and disco were successively replaced as 'club music' by house, techno, acid, and breakbeat. By the end of the decade, it was clear to see that these once exotic 'fringe' phenomena would soon become 'mass' phenomena.
Early 80s
Dirty Talk by the Italian-American duo Klein & M.B.O. represents the most innovative phase of the Italo-disco genre in the early eighties like no other track. Mario Boncaldo (I) and Tony Carrasco relied entirely on the original synthetic drum and percussion sounds of the Roland TR-808, coupled with the raunchy vocals of Rossana Casale and guitar accents of Davide Piatto. Of course, other tracks from this period were also influential in style, most notably Unit by Logic System, which worked as the perfect soundtrack to the laser lighting system at the legendary Dorian Gray club. With stomping beats and robotic rap interludes, Bostich by Yello also belongs on Sven's eternal playlist - after all, it caught the attention of Afrikaa Bambaataa, who invited the Swiss duo to perform at the Roxy in New York in 1983.
EBM Wave - Mid 80s
From today's point of view, the almost ten-minute-long, downtempo track Giant by Matt Johnson's band project The The, would probably not be considered an obvious club classic. However, a closer (re)listen reveals the rhythmic intricacies of the percussion overdubs by JG Thirlwell (aka Foetus) on Johnson's composition, and it becomes clear why this exceptional piece of music is one of Sven's absolute favorites. Other classics from this phase include Kaw-Liga by the mysterious The Residents, the hypnotic-synthetic Our Darkness by Anne Clark (and David Harrow), and last but not least, the somber, monotonous anthem Where Are You? by 16Bit, one of Sven Väth's projects together with Michael Münzing, Luca Anzilotti from 1986.
US House - Late 80s
You certainly can't talk about Chicago house without mentioning Frankie Knuckles. The resident DJ at the Warehouse not only gave the name to an entire genre, but also produced epochal floor fillers on the Trax label like the timeless Your Love, sung (and moaned) by Jamie Principle. Acid house protagonists Phuture also hail from Chicago, and on We Are Phuture (also released on Trax) we hear the chirping acid sounds of the legendary Roland TB-303 in full effect. Another featured classic is No UFO's by Detroit's Model 500 aka Juan Atkins, who is rightly considered the 'Godfather of Techno' even if the genre-defining track from 1985 still breathes with the spirit of hip-hop and electro from the first breakdance era.
Afrobeat
Le Serpent, by Algerian-born Abdelmadjid Guemguem, is a track that sounds completely different from everything else on WIUTP. Made in 1978, it's a monumental, rousing groove created without bass or synths, just with five congas! Even though Guem sadly passed away in 2021, his immortal, acoustic beats are understood all over the world and will continue to enrich many thousands of DJ sets for years to come. Another classic that not only Sven appreciates beyond measure is Hugh Masekela's Don't Go Lose it, Baby. In addition to being one of the most important jazz pioneers, the trumpeter and freedom fighter from Johannesburg was very experimental, integrating electronic sounds into his music in later years, in a similar vein to Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock. Dutch jazz pianist Jasper van't Hof's afrobeat project Pili Pili has also aged well. The trance-like, almost sixteen-minute-long track of the same name, manages to fill a whole side on the seventh of twelve vinyl discs in the WIUTP box.
UK-US-Euro - Late 80s
Time for a change of scene, in the truest sense of the word, and from a musical perspective, this section is like landing on another planet. First up is Andrew Weatherall's classic remix of Primal Scream's Loaded, featuring the iconic Peter Fonda sample (lifted from the 1966 biker film Wild Angels) that came to personify the mood triggered by the British Second Summer of Love in the late eighties: "We wanna be free to do what we wanna do, and we wanna get loaded...". This period also saw the emergence of M/A/R/R/S whose only single, 1987's Pump Up The Volume, became a club classic with support from DJ legend CJ Mackintosh. In this most eclectic of sections, we also encounter New York house and reggae producer Bobby Konders and his seminal Nervous Acid.
Balearic - Late 80s
Those who know him, know that Sven had already lost his heart to the 'magic island' of Ibiza as a teenager, so with that in mind, the WIUTP project couldn't end without a Balearic chapter. Inspired by Manuel Göttsching's E2-E4, the immortal, eponymously titled Sueño Latino belongs in there without question. Equally popular on the island was, and still is Break 4 Love by Raze, which thinking about it, would also fit perfectly into the house chapter. Last, but not least, there's an overdue reunion with Sven Väth himself, in his role as frontman of the successful Frankfurt trio OFF. Together with Michael Münzing and Luca Anzilotti (later of Snap!) this 'Organization For Fun' created the off-the-wall club hit Electric Salsa in 1986 which incidentally turned into an international chart smash, putting Sven in the enviable position of having to decide between pop stardom and a DJ career. Well, we all know how that decision turned out and the rest, as they say, is history. A not insignificant part of his story is What I Used To Play. Enjoy!
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
- twelve individual colored disco sleeves with distinct full-size portraits of Sven from the 80s
Tracklisting:
LP
1. (A1) Logic System - Unit
2. (A2) Kraftwerk - Computerwelt (2009 Remastered)
3. (B1) Whodini - Magic's Wand
4. (B2) Rocker's Revenger - Walking on Sunshine (feat. Donnie Calvin)
5. (C1) Klein & MBO - Dirty Talk (European Connection)
6. (D1) Liaisons Dangereuses - Los Niños Del Parque
7. (D2) Yello - Bostich
8. (E1) The The - Giant
9. (F1) The Residents - Kaw-Liga
10. (G1) Clan Of Xymox - Stranger
11. (G2) A Split - Second - Flesh
12. (H1) Severed Heads - Dead Eyes Opened
13. (H2) The Weathermen - Poison!
14. (I1) New Order - Blue Monday
15. (J1) Anne Clark - Our Darkness
16. (J2) 16 Bit - Where Are You?
17. (K1) Phuture - We Are Phuture
18. (K2) Model 500 - No UFO's (Vocal)
19. (L1) Frankie Knuckles feat. Jamie Principle - Your Love
20. (L2) Quest - Mind Games (Street Mix)
21. (M1) Jasper van't Hof - Pili Pili
22. (N1) Guem Et Zaka Percussion - Le Serpent
23. (N2) Hugh Masekela - Don't Go Lose It Baby
24. (O1) Sly & Robbie - Make 'Em Move
25. (O2) Brian Eno - David Byrne - Help Me Somebody
26. (P1) Primal Scream - Loaded (Andy Weatherall Mix)
27. (Q1) The Ecstasy Club - Jesus Loves The Acid
28. (R1) Foremost Poets - Reason To Be Dismal?
29. (S1) Lhasa - The Attic
30. (S2) A Guy Called Gerald - Voodoo Ray
31. (T1) M/A/R/R/S - Pump up the Volume - USA 12" Mix
32. (T2) Bobby Konders - Nervous Acid
33. (U1) Meat Beat Manifesto - Helter Skelter
34. (V1) Raze - Break 4 Love
35 (W1) Sueño Latino with Manuel Goettsching performing E2-E4
- Sueño Latino (Paradise Version)
36. (X1) OFF - Electrica Salsa
Sven Väth - What I Used To Play
For this uniquely personal retrospective spread over twelve vinyl discs, Sven Väth takes us back to the early days of his DJ career. On What I Used To Play we meet great pioneers of electronic music, gifted percussionists, obscure wave bands, and innovative producers of a bygone 'new electronic' era. Rough beats and irresistible grooves from the identification stage of house, techno, and acid remind us not just how far electronic music has evolved over the past four decades, but how great it was to dance to EBM, techno, and house for the very first time.
If there is one protagonist of the electronic music scene who has remained curious, innovative and at the very cutting edge of music for over four decades, it's Sven Väth. His multi-layered artist albums and Sound of the Season mix compilations have been defining the genre for over two decades, and even today, he is constantly on the lookout for the next top tune to add to the highlights of his next set. At least, that's the case when he's not producing them himself as an artist or remixer. "Actually, it's always been part of my DNA to think ahead," and nothing had been further from his mind than looking back at his past, but when in spring of 2020 the international DJ circuit had to be scaled down to virtually zero, the 'restless traveler' suddenly had time. Time to stop and reflect on "how it actually was back then, at the very beginning of my career..."
"It was a great trip and with every track, beautiful memories came flooding back".
In the London apartment, he had just moved into, Sven has set up a "little music room", where he cocooned himself for several days, "to look way back for the first time and review my musical journey through the eighties, so to speak."
The interim result was six thematically oriented playlists with a grand total of 120 tracks from 'early 80s' to 'Balearic late 80s', together with excursions into afrobeat, European new wave, and EBM sounds and a few epochal techno/house tracks from the USA in between. From these 'Best of Sven Väth's favorites', the project What I Used To Play crystallized. Sven remembers how the Cocoon team reacted to his proposal: "They found the idea of making a compilation out of it MEGA from the beginning and everyone said 'Sven, go for it', but then, of course, the work really started, namely, to clear the rights and to get clean sounding masters of the up to 40-year-old tracks. There was also disappointment, of course. We couldn't clear certain titles because the rights holders in the USA had fallen out with each other or simply disappeared from the scene. In short, it wasn't easy, but now I can safely say we got the most important tracks."
Finally, after two years of research, curation, design, and administrative fine-tuning, the "little retrospective" from 1981 to 1990 is available. The exquisitely packaged, and three-kilo heavy box set is not only physically impressive, WIUTP is also the definitive record of Sven Väth's musical development. On each of the twenty-four sides of vinyl, you can trace track by track, what influenced him during which phase, and how he took off as a DJ from his parents' Queen's Pub straight into the spotlight at Dorian Gray. There and at Vogue (later OMEN), Sven became the style-defining player in the DJ booth that he still is today.
1981 - 1990: Future Sounds of Now
In the early eighties, the crowd in clubs like Vogue and Dorian Gray danced to what nowadays we call 'dance classics' - mainly disco, funk, soul, and chart pop. It was up to a new generation of DJs, including Sven Väth, the youngest protagonist in the Rhine-Main area at the time, to create their own club-ready music mix. Good new tracks and potential floor-fillers were rarities that had to be sought out and found, in order to prove oneself worthy.
Without MP3s, internet streaming, or other digital download possibilities, music didn't just gravitate to the DJ, instead, it had to be tracked down. In well-stocked record stores in Frankfurt and Wiesbaden or even in Amsterdam, London, or New York, Sven and friends sourced the material for countless magical nights. On WIUTP we can follow Sven's very personal journey through this wild, innovative era in which synth-pop, funk, hip-hop, and disco were successively replaced as 'club music' by house, techno, acid, and breakbeat. By the end of the decade, it was clear to see that these once exotic 'fringe' phenomena would soon become 'mass' phenomena.
Early 80s
Dirty Talk by the Italian-American duo Klein & M.B.O. represents the most innovative phase of the Italo-disco genre in the early eighties like no other track. Mario Boncaldo (I) and Tony Carrasco relied entirely on the original synthetic drum and percussion sounds of the Roland TR-808, coupled with the raunchy vocals of Rossana Casale and guitar accents of Davide Piatto. Of course, other tracks from this period were also influential in style, most notably Unit by Logic System, which worked as the perfect soundtrack to the laser lighting system at the legendary Dorian Gray club. With stomping beats and robotic rap interludes, Bostich by Yello also belongs on Sven's eternal playlist - after all, it caught the attention of Afrikaa Bambaataa, who invited the Swiss duo to perform at the Roxy in New York in 1983.
EBM Wave - Mid 80s
From today's point of view, the almost ten-minute-long, downtempo track Giant by Matt Johnson's band project The The, would probably not be considered an obvious club classic. However, a closer (re)listen reveals the rhythmic intricacies of the percussion overdubs by JG Thirlwell (aka Foetus) on Johnson's composition, and it becomes clear why this exceptional piece of music is one of Sven's absolute favorites. Other classics from this phase include Kaw-Liga by the mysterious The Residents, the hypnotic-synthetic Our Darkness by Anne Clark (and David Harrow), and last but not least, the somber, monotonous anthem Where Are You? by 16Bit, one of Sven Väth's projects together with Michael Münzing, Luca Anzilotti from 1986.
US House - Late 80s
You certainly can't talk about Chicago house without mentioning Frankie Knuckles. The resident DJ at the Warehouse not only gave the name to an entire genre, but also produced epochal floor fillers on the Trax label like the timeless Your Love, sung (and moaned) by Jamie Principle. Acid house protagonists Phuture also hail from Chicago, and on We Are Phuture (also released on Trax) we hear the chirping acid sounds of the legendary Roland TB-303 in full effect. Another featured classic is No UFO's by Detroit's Model 500 aka Juan Atkins, who is rightly considered the 'Godfather of Techno' even if the genre-defining track from 1985 still breathes with the spirit of hip-hop and electro from the first breakdance era.
Afrobeat
Le Serpent, by Algerian-born Abdelmadjid Guemguem, is a track that sounds completely different from everything else on WIUTP. Made in 1978, it's a monumental, rousing groove created without bass or synths, just with five congas! Even though Guem sadly passed away in 2021, his immortal, acoustic beats are understood all over the world and will continue to enrich many thousands of DJ sets for years to come. Another classic that not only Sven appreciates beyond measure is Hugh Masekela's Don't Go Lose it, Baby. In addition to being one of the most important jazz pioneers, the trumpeter and freedom fighter from Johannesburg was very experimental, integrating electronic sounds into his music in later years, in a similar vein to Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock. Dutch jazz pianist Jasper van't Hof's afrobeat project Pili Pili has also aged well. The trance-like, almost sixteen-minute-long track of the same name, manages to fill a whole side on the seventh of twelve vinyl discs in the WIUTP box.
UK-US-Euro - Late 80s
Time for a change of scene, in the truest sense of the word, and from a musical perspective, this section is like landing on another planet. First up is Andrew Weatherall's classic remix of Primal Scream's Loaded, featuring the iconic Peter Fonda sample (lifted from the 1966 biker film Wild Angels) that came to personify the mood triggered by the British Second Summer of Love in the late eighties: "We wanna be free to do what we wanna do, and we wanna get loaded...". This period also saw the emergence of M/A/R/R/S whose only single, 1987's Pump Up The Volume, became a club classic with support from DJ legend CJ Mackintosh. In this most eclectic of sections, we also encounter New York house and reggae producer Bobby Konders and his seminal Nervous Acid.
Balearic - Late 80s
Those who know him, know that Sven had already lost his heart to the 'magic island' of Ibiza as a teenager, so with that in mind, the WIUTP project couldn't end without a Balearic chapter. Inspired by Manuel Göttsching's E2-E4, the immortal, eponymously titled Sueño Latino belongs in there without question. Equally popular on the island was, and still is Break 4 Love by Raze, which thinking about it, would also fit perfectly into the house chapter. Last, but not least, there's an overdue reunion with Sven Väth himself, in his role as frontman of the successful Frankfurt trio OFF. Together with Michael Münzing and Luca Anzilotti (later of Snap!) this 'Organization For Fun' created the off-the-wall club hit Electric Salsa in 1986 which incidentally turned into an international chart smash, putting Sven in the enviable position of having to decide between pop stardom and a DJ career. Well, we all know how that decision turned out and the rest, as they say, is history. A not insignificant part of his story is What I Used To Play. Enjoy!
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
Sven Väth - 1. (CD1) Logic System - Unit
2
Sven Väth - 2. (CD1) Kraftwerk - Computerwelt (2009 Remastered)
3
Sven Väth - 3. (CD1) Whodini - Magic's Wand
4
Sven Väth - 4. (CD1) Rocker's Revenger - Walking on Sunshine (feat. Donnie Calvin)
5
Sven Väth - 5. (CD1) Klein & MBO - Dirty Talk (European Connection)
6
Sven Väth - 6. (CD1) Liaisons Dangereuses - Los Niños Del Parque
7
Sven Väth - 7. (CD1) Yello - Bostich
8
Sven Väth - 8. (CD1) The The - Giant
9
Sven Väth - 9. (CD1) The Residents - Kaw-Liga
10
Sven Väth - 10. (CD1) Clan Of Xymox - Stranger
11
Sven Väth - 11. (CD1) A Split - Second - Flesh
12
Sven Väth - 12. (CD1) Severed Heads - Dead Eyes Opened
13
Sven Väth - 13. (CD1) 16 Bit - Where Are You?
14
Sven Väth - 1. (CD2) The Weathermen - Poison!
15
Sven Väth - 2. (CD2) New Order - Blue Monday
16
Sven Väth - 3. (CD2) Anne Clark - Our Darkness
17
Sven Väth - 4. (CD2) Phuture - We Are Phuture
18
Sven Väth - 5. (CD2) Model 500 - No UFO's (Vocal)
19
Sven Väth - 6. (CD2) Frankie Knuckles feat. Jamie Principle - Your Love
20
Sven Väth - 7. (CD2) Quest - Mind Games (Street Mix)
21
Sven Väth - 8. (CD2) Jasper van't Hof - Pili Pili
22
Sven Väth - 9. (CD2) Guem Et Zaka Percussion - Le Serpent
23
Sven Väth - 10. (CD2) Hugh Masekela - Don't Go Lose It Baby
24
Sven Väth - 11. (CD2) Sly & Robbie - Make 'Em Move
25
Sven Väth - 1. (CD3) Brian Eno - David Byrne - Help Me Somebody
26
Sven Väth - 2. (CD3) Primal Scream - Loaded (Andy Weatherall Mix)
27
Sven Väth - 3. (CD3) The Ecstasy Club - Jesus Loves The Acid
28
Sven Väth - 4. (CD3) Foremost Poets - Reason To Be Dismal?
29
Sven Väth - 5. (CD3) Lhasa - The Attic
30
Sven Väth - 6. (CD3) A Guy Called Gerald - Voodoo Ray
31
Sven Väth - 7. (CD3) M/A/R/R/S - Pump up the Volume - USA 12" Mix
32
Sven Väth - 8. (CD3) Bobby Konders - Nervous Acid
33
Sven Väth - 9. (CD3) Meat Beat Manifesto - Helter Skelter
34
Sven Väth - 10. (CD3) Raze - Break 4 Love
35
Sven Väth - 11.(CD3)Sueño Latino with Manuel Goettsching performing E2-E4-(Paradise Version)
36
Sven Väth - 12. (CD3) OFF - Electrica Salsa
- exclusive deluxe digipak slipcase with silver hot foil embossing
Tracklisting:
CD
1. (CD1) Logic System - Unit
2. (CD1) Kraftwerk - Computerwelt (2009 Remastered)
3. (CD1) Whodini - Magic's Wand
4. (CD1) Rocker's Revenger - Walking on Sunshine (feat. Donnie Calvin)
5. (CD1) Klein & MBO - Dirty Talk (European Connection)
6. (CD1) Liaisons Dangereuses - Los Niños Del Parque
7. (CD1) Yello - Bostich
8. (CD1) The The - Giant
9. (CD1) The Residents - Kaw-Liga
10. (CD1) Clan Of Xymox - Stranger
11. (CD1) A Split - Second - Flesh
12. (CD1) Severed Heads - Dead Eyes Opened
13. (CD1) 16 Bit - Where Are You?
1. (CD2) The Weathermen - Poison!
2. (CD2) New Order - Blue Monday
3. (CD2) Anne Clark - Our Darkness
4. (CD2) Phuture - We Are Phuture
5. (CD2) Model 500 - No UFO's (Vocal)
6. (CD2) Frankie Knuckles feat. Jamie Principle - Your Love
7. (CD2) Quest - Mind Games (Street Mix)
8. (CD2) Jasper van't Hof - Pili Pili
9. (CD2) Guem Et Zaka Percussion - Le Serpent
10. (CD2) Hugh Masekela - Don't Go Lose It Baby
11. (CD2) Sly & Robbie - Make 'Em Move
1. (CD3) Brian Eno - David Byrne - Help Me Somebody
2. (CD3) Primal Scream - Loaded (Andy Weatherall Mix)
3. (CD3) The Ecstasy Club - Jesus Loves The Acid
4. (CD3) Foremost Poets - Reason To Be Dismal?
5. (CD3) Lhasa - The Attic
6. (CD3) A Guy Called Gerald - Voodoo Ray
7. (CD3) M/A/R/R/S - Pump up the Volume - USA 12" Mix
8. (CD3) Bobby Konders - Nervous Acid
9. (CD3) Meat Beat Manifesto - Helter Skelter
10. (CD3) Raze - Break 4 Love
11. (CD3) Sueño Latino with Manuel Goettsching performing E2-E4
- Sueño Latino (Paradise Version)
12. (CD3) OFF - Electrica Salsa
Sven Väth - What I Used To Play
For this uniquely personal retrospective spread over twelve vinyl discs, Sven Väth takes us back to the early days of his DJ career. On What I Used To Play we meet great pioneers of electronic music, gifted percussionists, obscure wave bands, and innovative producers of a bygone 'new electronic' era. Rough beats and irresistible grooves from the identification stage of house, techno, and acid remind us not just how far electronic music has evolved over the past four decades, but how great it was to dance to EBM, techno, and house for the very first time.
If there is one protagonist of the electronic music scene who has remained curious, innovative and at the very cutting edge of music for over four decades, it's Sven Väth. His multi-layered artist albums and Sound of the Season mix compilations have been defining the genre for over two decades, and even today, he is constantly on the lookout for the next top tune to add to the highlights of his next set. At least, that's the case when he's not producing them himself as an artist or remixer. "Actually, it's always been part of my DNA to think ahead," and nothing had been further from his mind than looking back at his past, but when in spring of 2020 the international DJ circuit had to be scaled down to virtually zero, the 'restless traveler' suddenly had time. Time to stop and reflect on "how it actually was back then, at the very beginning of my career..."
"It was a great trip and with every track, beautiful memories came flooding back".
In the London apartment, he had just moved into, Sven has set up a "little music room", where he cocooned himself for several days, "to look way back for the first time and review my musical journey through the eighties, so to speak."
The interim result was six thematically oriented playlists with a grand total of 120 tracks from 'early 80s' to 'Balearic late 80s', together with excursions into afrobeat, European new wave, and EBM sounds and a few epochal techno/house tracks from the USA in between. From these 'Best of Sven Väth's favorites', the project What I Used To Play crystallized. Sven remembers how the Cocoon team reacted to his proposal: "They found the idea of making a compilation out of it MEGA from the beginning and everyone said 'Sven, go for it', but then, of course, the work really started, namely, to clear the rights and to get clean sounding masters of the up to 40-year-old tracks. There was also disappointment, of course. We couldn't clear certain titles because the rights holders in the USA had fallen out with each other or simply disappeared from the scene. In short, it wasn't easy, but now I can safely say we got the most important tracks."
Finally, after two years of research, curation, design, and administrative fine-tuning, the "little retrospective" from 1981 to 1990 is available. The exquisitely packaged, and three-kilo heavy box set is not only physically impressive, WIUTP is also the definitive record of Sven Väth's musical development. On each of the twenty-four sides of vinyl, you can trace track by track, what influenced him during which phase, and how he took off as a DJ from his parents' Queen's Pub straight into the spotlight at Dorian Gray. There and at Vogue (later OMEN), Sven became the style-defining player in the DJ booth that he still is today.
1981 - 1990: Future Sounds of Now
In the early eighties, the crowd in clubs like Vogue and Dorian Gray danced to what nowadays we call 'dance classics' - mainly disco, funk, soul, and chart pop. It was up to a new generation of DJs, including Sven Väth, the youngest protagonist in the Rhine-Main area at the time, to create their own club-ready music mix. Good new tracks and potential floor-fillers were rarities that had to be sought out and found, in order to prove oneself worthy.
Without MP3s, internet streaming, or other digital download possibilities, music didn't just gravitate to the DJ, instead, it had to be tracked down. In well-stocked record stores in Frankfurt and Wiesbaden or even in Amsterdam, London, or New York, Sven and friends sourced the material for countless magical nights. On WIUTP we can follow Sven's very personal journey through this wild, innovative era in which synth-pop, funk, hip-hop, and disco were successively replaced as 'club music' by house, techno, acid, and breakbeat. By the end of the decade, it was clear to see that these once exotic 'fringe' phenomena would soon become 'mass' phenomena.
Early 80s
Dirty Talk by the Italian-American duo Klein & M.B.O. represents the most innovative phase of the Italo-disco genre in the early eighties like no other track. Mario Boncaldo (I) and Tony Carrasco relied entirely on the original synthetic drum and percussion sounds of the Roland TR-808, coupled with the raunchy vocals of Rossana Casale and guitar accents of Davide Piatto. Of course, other tracks from this period were also influential in style, most notably Unit by Logic System, which worked as the perfect soundtrack to the laser lighting system at the legendary Dorian Gray club. With stomping beats and robotic rap interludes, Bostich by Yello also belongs on Sven's eternal playlist - after all, it caught the attention of Afrikaa Bambaataa, who invited the Swiss duo to perform at the Roxy in New York in 1983.
EBM Wave - Mid 80s
From today's point of view, the almost ten-minute-long, downtempo track Giant by Matt Johnson's band project The The, would probably not be considered an obvious club classic. However, a closer (re)listen reveals the rhythmic intricacies of the percussion overdubs by JG Thirlwell (aka Foetus) on Johnson's composition, and it becomes clear why this exceptional piece of music is one of Sven's absolute favorites. Other classics from this phase include Kaw-Liga by the mysterious The Residents, the hypnotic-synthetic Our Darkness by Anne Clark (and David Harrow), and last but not least, the somber, monotonous anthem Where Are You? by 16Bit, one of Sven Väth's projects together with Michael Münzing, Luca Anzilotti from 1986.
US House - Late 80s
You certainly can't talk about Chicago house without mentioning Frankie Knuckles. The resident DJ at the Warehouse not only gave the name to an entire genre, but also produced epochal floor fillers on the Trax label like the timeless Your Love, sung (and moaned) by Jamie Principle. Acid house protagonists Phuture also hail from Chicago, and on We Are Phuture (also released on Trax) we hear the chirping acid sounds of the legendary Roland TB-303 in full effect. Another featured classic is No UFO's by Detroit's Model 500 aka Juan Atkins, who is rightly considered the 'Godfather of Techno' even if the genre-defining track from 1985 still breathes with the spirit of hip-hop and electro from the first breakdance era.
Afrobeat
Le Serpent, by Algerian-born Abdelmadjid Guemguem, is a track that sounds completely different from everything else on WIUTP. Made in 1978, it's a monumental, rousing groove created without bass or synths, just with five congas! Even though Guem sadly passed away in 2021, his immortal, acoustic beats are understood all over the world and will continue to enrich many thousands of DJ sets for years to come. Another classic that not only Sven appreciates beyond measure is Hugh Masekela's Don't Go Lose it, Baby. In addition to being one of the most important jazz pioneers, the trumpeter and freedom fighter from Johannesburg was very experimental, integrating electronic sounds into his music in later years, in a similar vein to Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock. Dutch jazz pianist Jasper van't Hof's afrobeat project Pili Pili has also aged well. The trance-like, almost sixteen-minute-long track of the same name, manages to fill a whole side on the seventh of twelve vinyl discs in the WIUTP box.
UK-US-Euro - Late 80s
Time for a change of scene, in the truest sense of the word, and from a musical perspective, this section is like landing on another planet. First up is Andrew Weatherall's classic remix of Primal Scream's Loaded, featuring the iconic Peter Fonda sample (lifted from the 1966 biker film Wild Angels) that came to personify the mood triggered by the British Second Summer of Love in the late eighties: "We wanna be free to do what we wanna do, and we wanna get loaded...". This period also saw the emergence of M/A/R/R/S whose only single, 1987's Pump Up The Volume, became a club classic with support from DJ legend CJ Mackintosh. In this most eclectic of sections, we also encounter New York house and reggae producer Bobby Konders and his seminal Nervous Acid.
Balearic - Late 80s
Those who know him, know that Sven had already lost his heart to the 'magic island' of Ibiza as a teenager, so with that in mind, the WIUTP project couldn't end without a Balearic chapter. Inspired by Manuel Göttsching's E2-E4, the immortal, eponymously titled Sueño Latino belongs in there without question. Equally popular on the island was, and still is Break 4 Love by Raze, which thinking about it, would also fit perfectly into the house chapter. Last, but not least, there's an overdue reunion with Sven Väth himself, in his role as frontman of the successful Frankfurt trio OFF. Together with Michael Münzing and Luca Anzilotti (later of Snap!) this 'Organization For Fun' created the off-the-wall club hit Electric Salsa in 1986 which incidentally turned into an international chart smash, putting Sven in the enviable position of having to decide between pop stardom and a DJ career. Well, we all know how that decision turned out and the rest, as they say, is history. A not insignificant part of his story is What I Used To Play. Enjoy!
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
Tracklisting:
CD
1. (CD1) Logic System - Unit
2. (CD1) Kraftwerk - Computerwelt (2009 Remastered)
3. (CD1) Whodini - Magic's Wand
4. (CD1) Rocker's Revenger - Walking on Sunshine (feat. Donnie Calvin)
5. (CD1) Klein & MBO - Dirty Talk (European Connection)
6. (CD1) Liaisons Dangereuses - Los Niños Del Parque
7. (CD1) Yello - Bostich
8. (CD1) The The - Giant
9. (CD1) The Residents - Kaw-Liga
10. (CD1) Clan Of Xymox - Stranger
11. (CD1) A Split - Second - Flesh
12. (CD1) Severed Heads - Dead Eyes Opened
13. (CD1) 16 Bit - Where Are You?
1. (CD2) The Weathermen - Poison!
2. (CD2) New Order - Blue Monday
3. (CD2) Anne Clark - Our Darkness
4. (CD2) Phuture - We Are Phuture
5. (CD2) Model 500 - No UFO's (Vocal)
6. (CD2) Frankie Knuckles feat. Jamie Principle - Your Love
7. (CD2) Quest - Mind Games (Street Mix)
8. (CD2) Jasper van't Hof - Pili Pili
9. (CD2) Guem Et Zaka Percussion - Le Serpent
10. (CD2) Hugh Masekela - Don't Go Lose It Baby
11. (CD2) Sly & Robbie - Make 'Em Move
1. (CD3) Brian Eno - David Byrne - Help Me Somebody
2. (CD3) Primal Scream - Loaded (Andy Weatherall Mix)
3. (CD3) The Ecstasy Club - Jesus Loves The Acid
4. (CD3) Foremost Poets - Reason To Be Dismal?
5. (CD3) Lhasa - The Attic
6. (CD3) A Guy Called Gerald - Voodoo Ray
7. (CD3) M/A/R/R/S - Pump up the Volume - USA 12" Mix
8. (CD3) Bobby Konders - Nervous Acid
9. (CD3) Meat Beat Manifesto - Helter Skelter
10. (CD3) Raze - Break 4 Love
11. (CD3) Sueño Latino with Manuel Goettsching performing E2-E4
- Sueño Latino (Paradise Version)
12. (CD3) OFF - Electrica Salsa
Sven Väth - What I Used To Play
For this uniquely personal retrospective spread over twelve vinyl discs, Sven Väth takes us back to the early days of his DJ career. On What I Used To Play we meet great pioneers of electronic music, gifted percussionists, obscure wave bands, and innovative producers of a bygone 'new electronic' era. Rough beats and irresistible grooves from the identification stage of house, techno, and acid remind us not just how far electronic music has evolved over the past four decades, but how great it was to dance to EBM, techno, and house for the very first time.
If there is one protagonist of the electronic music scene who has remained curious, innovative and at the very cutting edge of music for over four decades, it's Sven Väth. His multi-layered artist albums and Sound of the Season mix compilations have been defining the genre for over two decades, and even today, he is constantly on the lookout for the next top tune to add to the highlights of his next set. At least, that's the case when he's not producing them himself as an artist or remixer. "Actually, it's always been part of my DNA to think ahead," and nothing had been further from his mind than looking back at his past, but when in spring of 2020 the international DJ circuit had to be scaled down to virtually zero, the 'restless traveler' suddenly had time. Time to stop and reflect on "how it actually was back then, at the very beginning of my career..."
"It was a great trip and with every track, beautiful memories came flooding back".
In the London apartment, he had just moved into, Sven has set up a "little music room", where he cocooned himself for several days, "to look way back for the first time and review my musical journey through the eighties, so to speak."
The interim result was six thematically oriented playlists with a grand total of 120 tracks from 'early 80s' to 'Balearic late 80s', together with excursions into afrobeat, European new wave, and EBM sounds and a few epochal techno/house tracks from the USA in between. From these 'Best of Sven Väth's favorites', the project What I Used To Play crystallized. Sven remembers how the Cocoon team reacted to his proposal: "They found the idea of making a compilation out of it MEGA from the beginning and everyone said 'Sven, go for it', but then, of course, the work really started, namely, to clear the rights and to get clean sounding masters of the up to 40-year-old tracks. There was also disappointment, of course. We couldn't clear certain titles because the rights holders in the USA had fallen out with each other or simply disappeared from the scene. In short, it wasn't easy, but now I can safely say we got the most important tracks."
Finally, after two years of research, curation, design, and administrative fine-tuning, the "little retrospective" from 1981 to 1990 is available. The exquisitely packaged, and three-kilo heavy box set is not only physically impressive, WIUTP is also the definitive record of Sven Väth's musical development. On each of the twenty-four sides of vinyl, you can trace track by track, what influenced him during which phase, and how he took off as a DJ from his parents' Queen's Pub straight into the spotlight at Dorian Gray. There and at Vogue (later OMEN), Sven became the style-defining player in the DJ booth that he still is today.
1981 - 1990: Future Sounds of Now
In the early eighties, the crowd in clubs like Vogue and Dorian Gray danced to what nowadays we call 'dance classics' - mainly disco, funk, soul, and chart pop. It was up to a new generation of DJs, including Sven Väth, the youngest protagonist in the Rhine-Main area at the time, to create their own club-ready music mix. Good new tracks and potential floor-fillers were rarities that had to be sought out and found, in order to prove oneself worthy.
Without MP3s, internet streaming, or other digital download possibilities, music didn't just gravitate to the DJ, instead, it had to be tracked down. In well-stocked record stores in Frankfurt and Wiesbaden or even in Amsterdam, London, or New York, Sven and friends sourced the material for countless magical nights. On WIUTP we can follow Sven's very personal journey through this wild, innovative era in which synth-pop, funk, hip-hop, and disco were successively replaced as 'club music' by house, techno, acid, and breakbeat. By the end of the decade, it was clear to see that these once exotic 'fringe' phenomena would soon become 'mass' phenomena.
Early 80s
Dirty Talk by the Italian-American duo Klein & M.B.O. represents the most innovative phase of the Italo-disco genre in the early eighties like no other track. Mario Boncaldo (I) and Tony Carrasco relied entirely on the original synthetic drum and percussion sounds of the Roland TR-808, coupled with the raunchy vocals of Rossana Casale and guitar accents of Davide Piatto. Of course, other tracks from this period were also influential in style, most notably Unit by Logic System, which worked as the perfect soundtrack to the laser lighting system at the legendary Dorian Gray club. With stomping beats and robotic rap interludes, Bostich by Yello also belongs on Sven's eternal playlist - after all, it caught the attention of Afrikaa Bambaataa, who invited the Swiss duo to perform at the Roxy in New York in 1983.
EBM Wave - Mid 80s
From today's point of view, the almost ten-minute-long, downtempo track Giant by Matt Johnson's band project The The, would probably not be considered an obvious club classic. However, a closer (re)listen reveals the rhythmic intricacies of the percussion overdubs by JG Thirlwell (aka Foetus) on Johnson's composition, and it becomes clear why this exceptional piece of music is one of Sven's absolute favorites. Other classics from this phase include Kaw-Liga by the mysterious The Residents, the hypnotic-synthetic Our Darkness by Anne Clark (and David Harrow), and last but not least, the somber, monotonous anthem Where Are You? by 16Bit, one of Sven Väth's projects together with Michael Münzing, Luca Anzilotti from 1986.
US House - Late 80s
You certainly can't talk about Chicago house without mentioning Frankie Knuckles. The resident DJ at the Warehouse not only gave the name to an entire genre, but also produced epochal floor fillers on the Trax label like the timeless Your Love, sung (and moaned) by Jamie Principle. Acid house protagonists Phuture also hail from Chicago, and on We Are Phuture (also released on Trax) we hear the chirping acid sounds of the legendary Roland TB-303 in full effect. Another featured classic is No UFO's by Detroit's Model 500 aka Juan Atkins, who is rightly considered the 'Godfather of Techno' even if the genre-defining track from 1985 still breathes with the spirit of hip-hop and electro from the first breakdance era.
Afrobeat
Le Serpent, by Algerian-born Abdelmadjid Guemguem, is a track that sounds completely different from everything else on WIUTP. Made in 1978, it's a monumental, rousing groove created without bass or synths, just with five congas! Even though Guem sadly passed away in 2021, his immortal, acoustic beats are understood all over the world and will continue to enrich many thousands of DJ sets for years to come. Another classic that not only Sven appreciates beyond measure is Hugh Masekela's Don't Go Lose it, Baby. In addition to being one of the most important jazz pioneers, the trumpeter and freedom fighter from Johannesburg was very experimental, integrating electronic sounds into his music in later years, in a similar vein to Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock. Dutch jazz pianist Jasper van't Hof's afrobeat project Pili Pili has also aged well. The trance-like, almost sixteen-minute-long track of the same name, manages to fill a whole side on the seventh of twelve vinyl discs in the WIUTP box.
UK-US-Euro - Late 80s
Time for a change of scene, in the truest sense of the word, and from a musical perspective, this section is like landing on another planet. First up is Andrew Weatherall's classic remix of Primal Scream's Loaded, featuring the iconic Peter Fonda sample (lifted from the 1966 biker film Wild Angels) that came to personify the mood triggered by the British Second Summer of Love in the late eighties: "We wanna be free to do what we wanna do, and we wanna get loaded...". This period also saw the emergence of M/A/R/R/S whose only single, 1987's Pump Up The Volume, became a club classic with support from DJ legend CJ Mackintosh. In this most eclectic of sections, we also encounter New York house and reggae producer Bobby Konders and his seminal Nervous Acid.
Balearic - Late 80s
Those who know him, know that Sven had already lost his heart to the 'magic island' of Ibiza as a teenager, so with that in mind, the WIUTP project couldn't end without a Balearic chapter. Inspired by Manuel Göttsching's E2-E4, the immortal, eponymously titled Sueño Latino belongs in there without question. Equally popular on the island was, and still is Break 4 Love by Raze, which thinking about it, would also fit perfectly into the house chapter. Last, but not least, there's an overdue reunion with Sven Väth himself, in his role as frontman of the successful Frankfurt trio OFF. Together with Michael Münzing and Luca Anzilotti (later of Snap!) this 'Organization For Fun' created the off-the-wall club hit Electric Salsa in 1986 which incidentally turned into an international chart smash, putting Sven in the enviable position of having to decide between pop stardom and a DJ career. Well, we all know how that decision turned out and the rest, as they say, is history. A not insignificant part of his story is What I Used To Play. Enjoy!
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
Metal Master (Sven Väth) - Spectrum (Bart Skils & Weska Reinterpretation)
single-sided multi-colored splattered 12-inch vinyl release
Tracklist: (1) Metal Master – Spectrum (Bart Skils & Weska Reinterpretation) (DE-Q20-22-00022)
Release Info:
Techno is all too often described as timeless but while most of it eventually evaporates into the ether, there are some riffs, melodies, and breakdowns that remain etched into our collective consciousness forever. Legendary Frankfurt label Harthouse is home to more than its fair share of such moments, but you have to go all the way back to 1992, the opening strains of the Metal Master classic ‘Spectrum’ to locate the source for this special single-sided remix release.
The common denominator and catalyst to all this is of course Sven Väth, co-creator of ‘Spectrum’ and founder of both Harthouse and Cocoon Recordings, while the independent variables in the equation are Bart Skils and Weska, who lend their considerable talent and vision to this sublime makeover.
Coming on like rolling thunder, sparks fly immediately as crackling vocoder licks, silky ride cymbals and soaring arpeggios build an atmosphere taut with anticipation before giving way to that iconic melody - a love letter from Frankfurt to Ibiza, wrought from metal, drenched in distortion yet pulling at the heartstrings - the perfect soundtrack to any chemical sunrise.
It‘s a powerful re-interpretation that pays the warmest respects to the original and, despite the relentless groove, there is still room for sentimentality - an invitation to momentarily pause for thought and reflect on the journey so far as the sumptuous breakdown washes over the dance-floor. But not for long, the simmering bass line soon emerges from the euphoria and the track kicks in again, driving us forward towards a new, uncharted spectrum of possibilities.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
Tracklist: (1) Metal Master – Spectrum (Bart Skils & Weska Reinterpretation) (DE-Q20-22-00022)
Release Info:
Techno is all too often described as timeless but while most of it eventually evaporates into the ether, there are some riffs, melodies, and breakdowns that remain etched into our collective consciousness forever. Legendary Frankfurt label Harthouse is home to more than its fair share of such moments, but you have to go all the way back to 1992, the opening strains of the Metal Master classic ‘Spectrum’ to locate the source for this special single-sided remix release.
The common denominator and catalyst to all this is of course Sven Väth, co-creator of ‘Spectrum’ and founder of both Harthouse and Cocoon Recordings, while the independent variables in the equation are Bart Skils and Weska, who lend their considerable talent and vision to this sublime makeover.
Coming on like rolling thunder, sparks fly immediately as crackling vocoder licks, silky ride cymbals and soaring arpeggios build an atmosphere taut with anticipation before giving way to that iconic melody - a love letter from Frankfurt to Ibiza, wrought from metal, drenched in distortion yet pulling at the heartstrings - the perfect soundtrack to any chemical sunrise.
It‘s a powerful re-interpretation that pays the warmest respects to the original and, despite the relentless groove, there is still room for sentimentality - an invitation to momentarily pause for thought and reflect on the journey so far as the sumptuous breakdown washes over the dance-floor. But not for long, the simmering bass line soon emerges from the euphoria and the track kicks in again, driving us forward towards a new, uncharted spectrum of possibilities.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
Harvey McKay - Harvey McKay – Black Spider
2
Harvey McKay - Harvey McKay – Sticky Carpet
3
Harvey McKay - Harvey McKay – Packed Lunch
Tracklist: (1) Harvey McKay – Black Spider (DE-Q20-22-00023)
(2) Harvey McKay – Sticky Carpet (DE-Q20-22-00024)
(3) Harvey McKay – Packed Lunch (DE-Q20-22-00025)
Harvey McKay makes a welcome return to Cocoon Recordings with the Black Spider EP, featuring
three heavy-duty cuts that spin out in a variety of directions, constructing a formidable web of peaktime mayhem in the process.
Black Spider bites hard from the get-go with a venomous bassline that pulses and mutates through a
series of precision peaks and troughs. The track kicks repeatedly, drenching the dancefloor in washes
of analog noise while McKay still finds space for a barrage of clattering percussion. Haunting ambient
voices and a mysterious spoken mantra add yet more texture to the cavernous, gothic atmosphere it
conjures.
Next up, the disconcertingly titled Sticky Carpet utilizes a 90s hard house vibe complete with
crunching, distorted beats, and a glistening octave-jumping synth pattern that slides and constricts
around the chugging bassline. However, the track really comes into its own as alternating metallic
patterns start to dominate in a homage to the hi-hat, whipping the dancefloor into shape as they switch
in and out, jostling relentlessly for attention.
Finally, hardcore junglist tendencies take center stage on Packed Lunch as another rasping,
doomsday bass rides the sonic spectrum, simultaneously spitting sparks and shaking the foundations
to the core. Scattered arpeggios add a certain discord to the fray as the pounding breakbeat hammers
out a pathway to oblivion. Packed Lunch definitely packs a punch, adding extra spice to an EP that’s
exclusively for the headstrong.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
CD, Deluxe Printed with Matt Plastificaton, Embossing
Tracklisting:
CD
1. Sven Väth - What I Used To Play
2. Sven Väth - The Worm
3. Sven Väth - The Inner Voice
4. Sven Väth - Catharsis
5. Sven Väth - Feiern
6. Sven Väth - Mystic Voices
7. Sven Väth - Being In Love
8. Sven Väth - Butoh
9. Sven Väth - The Cranes Of Gangtey Valley
10. Sven Väth - We Are
11. Sven Väth - Silvi's Dream
12. Sven Väth - Panta Rhei
Catharsis is Sven Väth's first solo album in almost 20 years, and the 50th album to be released on his incomparable label, Cocoon Recordings. Produced alongside Gregor Tresher, it arrives on 25 February 2022 and is a musical autobiography that charts Svens most extraordinary life in techno.
Without the West German-born Väth, techno would look, sound and feel very different. Since falling in love with electronic music and DJing in 1981, his dedication to the art has never faltered. He plays every party as if it were his last. His broad smile has connected with millions of people around the world. His colourful and curious character has imbued techno with a personality it was often lacking. His selections remain hugely unpredictable, despite the fact that he has been playing around the world for more than 40 years. To remain not only relevant but innovative after so long is a testament to Sven's ability to connect through music on a deeper level.
Technically, of course, he is a DJ who can play for thirty hours and not miss a beat. His track selections seem almost divine, and his aura is certainly otherworldly. But more than that, he is a ringleader who is able to mix the artful side of techno with the playful side of partying. Most famously he has done this for more than 20 years at his iconic Cocoon parties in Ibiza. They single-handedly introduced techno to the White Isle and have been its beating heart ever since. Under his charge, strict style guidelines and exaggerated pigeonholing no longer apply. Instead, he has perfected the art of playing far and wide while always remaining true to his own musical identity.
In the studio, Sven has always been just as unique. He has worked under several aliases but always brought a fresh perspective. Whether securing chart hits as part of OFF in the eighties, serving up brutalist techno and trance-tinged sounds in the nineties or crafting major label albums in the 2000s, his music has remained utterly forward-looking. That legacy continues with Catharsis as Sven teams up with highly respected producer Gregor Tresher for his latest long-form offering. Tresher has long been part of the Cocoon family and is a revered artist in his own right, when the two got together in the studio it was clear they had an instant connection and there would only be one person fit to co-author this LP.
It is a record inspired by Sven's interest in the physical and spiritual processes that take place when we dance. "They are realms into which we immerse ourselves to experience our own mysticism and ecstasy," he muses. "Dancing is a conversation between body and soul and it spiritually connects us with each other." Because of the pandemic, that is of course a feeling that we all missed out on for so long. "No dancing, no paradise!" says Sven. "My imagination for this record was fueled by the many cultural experiences and encounters I have had in my life. They gave me the strength to find a way, the way to myself." And that way to himself is through music, through purifying dancing rituals and the exchange of spiritual energies that are generated in the club.
The thirteen-track album explores all facets of Sven's sound. It opens with the stomping drums but sleek synths of 'What I Used To Play' and unfolds through deep and dirty rhythms like 'The Worm', subtly euphoric highs on 'The Inner Voice' and the bubbly tribalism of the title track. There is the impassioned call-to-arms that is 'Feiern', peak-time melodic workout 'Mystic Voices' and soothing electronic lullabies like 'Being In Love'. The second half of the album takes in many more twists and turns such as the exotic strings and driving drums of 'Butoh', the paranoid techno minimalism of 'NYX' and expansive synthscapes of ambient gem 'The Cranes Of Gangtey Valley' before things play out though rugged beats and emotive chords on 'We Are', which is named after the idea that we are what we think. "With our thoughts, we make the world.? says Sven.
Then comes the moody reflection of 'Silvi's Dream', which was written in French for Sven's girlfriend. Last but not least we have the immersive dream that is 'Panta Rhei', which completes a trio of electronica tunes on the album. Ambient music has been an integral part on almost every album Sven has written because it can bring a certain emotional deepness, a quality that Sven always has been looking for.
'Catharsis' is an adventurous album that captures the good times, the sad times and, most importantly, the times of hope.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
Tracklisting:
CD
1. Sven Väth - What I Used To Play
2. Sven Väth - The Worm
3. Sven Väth - The Inner Voice
4. Sven Väth - Catharsis
5. Sven Väth - Feiern
6. Sven Väth - Mystic Voices
7. Sven Väth - Being In Love
8. Sven Väth - Butoh
9. Sven Väth - The Cranes Of Gangtey Valley
10. Sven Väth - We Are
11. Sven Väth - Silvi's Dream
12. Sven Väth - Panta Rhei
Catharsis is Sven Väth's first solo album in almost 20 years, and the 50th album to be released on his incomparable label, Cocoon Recordings. Produced alongside Gregor Tresher, it arrives on 25 February 2022 and is a musical autobiography that charts Svens most extraordinary life in techno.
Without the West German-born Väth, techno would look, sound and feel very different. Since falling in love with electronic music and DJing in 1981, his dedication to the art has never faltered. He plays every party as if it were his last. His broad smile has connected with millions of people around the world. His colourful and curious character has imbued techno with a personality it was often lacking. His selections remain hugely unpredictable, despite the fact that he has been playing around the world for more than 40 years. To remain not only relevant but innovative after so long is a testament to Sven's ability to connect through music on a deeper level.
Technically, of course, he is a DJ who can play for thirty hours and not miss a beat. His track selections seem almost divine, and his aura is certainly otherworldly. But more than that, he is a ringleader who is able to mix the artful side of techno with the playful side of partying. Most famously he has done this for more than 20 years at his iconic Cocoon parties in Ibiza. They single-handedly introduced techno to the White Isle and have been its beating heart ever since. Under his charge, strict style guidelines and exaggerated pigeonholing no longer apply. Instead, he has perfected the art of playing far and wide while always remaining true to his own musical identity.
In the studio, Sven has always been just as unique. He has worked under several aliases but always brought a fresh perspective. Whether securing chart hits as part of OFF in the eighties, serving up brutalist techno and trance-tinged sounds in the nineties or crafting major label albums in the 2000s, his music has remained utterly forward-looking. That legacy continues with Catharsis as Sven teams up with highly respected producer Gregor Tresher for his latest long-form offering. Tresher has long been part of the Cocoon family and is a revered artist in his own right, when the two got together in the studio it was clear they had an instant connection and there would only be one person fit to co-author this LP.
It is a record inspired by Sven's interest in the physical and spiritual processes that take place when we dance. "They are realms into which we immerse ourselves to experience our own mysticism and ecstasy," he muses. "Dancing is a conversation between body and soul and it spiritually connects us with each other." Because of the pandemic, that is of course a feeling that we all missed out on for so long. "No dancing, no paradise!" says Sven. "My imagination for this record was fueled by the many cultural experiences and encounters I have had in my life. They gave me the strength to find a way, the way to myself." And that way to himself is through music, through purifying dancing rituals and the exchange of spiritual energies that are generated in the club.
The thirteen-track album explores all facets of Sven's sound. It opens with the stomping drums but sleek synths of 'What I Used To Play' and unfolds through deep and dirty rhythms like 'The Worm', subtly euphoric highs on 'The Inner Voice' and the bubbly tribalism of the title track. There is the impassioned call-to-arms that is 'Feiern', peak-time melodic workout 'Mystic Voices' and soothing electronic lullabies like 'Being In Love'. The second half of the album takes in many more twists and turns such as the exotic strings and driving drums of 'Butoh', the paranoid techno minimalism of 'NYX' and expansive synthscapes of ambient gem 'The Cranes Of Gangtey Valley' before things play out though rugged beats and emotive chords on 'We Are', which is named after the idea that we are what we think. "With our thoughts, we make the world.? says Sven.
Then comes the moody reflection of 'Silvi's Dream', which was written in French for Sven's girlfriend. Last but not least we have the immersive dream that is 'Panta Rhei', which completes a trio of electronica tunes on the album. Ambient music has been an integral part on almost every album Sven has written because it can bring a certain emotional deepness, a quality that Sven always has been looking for.
'Catharsis' is an adventurous album that captures the good times, the sad times and, most importantly, the times of hope.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
3LP, Gatefold, Deluxe Printed with Matt Plastificaton & Hot Foil Embossing
Tracklisting:
LP
1. (A1) Sven Väth - What I Used To Play
2. (A2) Sven Väth - The Worm
3. (B1) Sven Väth - Catharsis
4. (B2) Sven Väth - The Inner Voice
5. (C1) Sven Väth - Mystic Voices
6. (C2) Sven Väth - Nyx
7. (D1) Sven Väth - Butoh
8. (D2) Sven Väth - Feiern
9. (E1) Sven Väth - We Are
10. (E2) Sven Väth - Being In Love
11. (F1) Sven Väth - The Cranes Of Gangtey Valley
12. (F2) Sven Väth - Silvi's Dream
13. (F3) Sven Väth - Panta Rhei
Catharsis is Sven Väth's first solo album in almost 20 years, and the 50th album to be released on his incomparable label, Cocoon Recordings. Produced alongside Gregor Tresher, it arrives on 25 February 2022 and is a musical autobiography that charts Svens most extraordinary life in techno.
Without the West German-born Väth, techno would look, sound and feel very different. Since falling in love with electronic music and DJing in 1981, his dedication to the art has never faltered. He plays every party as if it were his last. His broad smile has connected with millions of people around the world. His colourful and curious character has imbued techno with a personality it was often lacking. His selections remain hugely unpredictable, despite the fact that he has been playing around the world for more than 40 years. To remain not only relevant but innovative after so long is a testament to Sven's ability to connect through music on a deeper level.
Technically, of course, he is a DJ who can play for thirty hours and not miss a beat. His track selections seem almost divine, and his aura is certainly otherworldly. But more than that, he is a ringleader who is able to mix the artful side of techno with the playful side of partying. Most famously he has done this for more than 20 years at his iconic Cocoon parties in Ibiza. They single-handedly introduced techno to the White Isle and have been its beating heart ever since. Under his charge, strict style guidelines and exaggerated pigeonholing no longer apply. Instead, he has perfected the art of playing far and wide while always remaining true to his own musical identity.
In the studio, Sven has always been just as unique. He has worked under several aliases but always brought a fresh perspective. Whether securing chart hits as part of OFF in the eighties, serving up brutalist techno and trance-tinged sounds in the nineties or crafting major label albums in the 2000s, his music has remained utterly forward-looking. That legacy continues with Catharsis as Sven teams up with highly respected producer Gregor Tresher for his latest long-form offering. Tresher has long been part of the Cocoon family and is a revered artist in his own right, when the two got together in the studio it was clear they had an instant connection and there would only be one person fit to co-author this LP.
It is a record inspired by Sven's interest in the physical and spiritual processes that take place when we dance. "They are realms into which we immerse ourselves to experience our own mysticism and ecstasy," he muses. "Dancing is a conversation between body and soul and it spiritually connects us with each other." Because of the pandemic, that is of course a feeling that we all missed out on for so long. "No dancing, no paradise!" says Sven. "My imagination for this record was fueled by the many cultural experiences and encounters I have had in my life. They gave me the strength to find a way, the way to myself." And that way to himself is through music, through purifying dancing rituals and the exchange of spiritual energies that are generated in the club.
The thirteen-track album explores all facets of Sven's sound. It opens with the stomping drums but sleek synths of 'What I Used To Play' and unfolds through deep and dirty rhythms like 'The Worm', subtly euphoric highs on 'The Inner Voice' and the bubbly tribalism of the title track. There is the impassioned call-to-arms that is 'Feiern', peak-time melodic workout 'Mystic Voices' and soothing electronic lullabies like 'Being In Love'. The second half of the album takes in many more twists and turns such as the exotic strings and driving drums of 'Butoh', the paranoid techno minimalism of 'NYX' and expansive synthscapes of ambient gem 'The Cranes Of Gangtey Valley' before things play out though rugged beats and emotive chords on 'We Are', which is named after the idea that we are what we think. "With our thoughts, we make the world.? says Sven.
Then comes the moody reflection of 'Silvi's Dream', which was written in French for Sven's girlfriend. Last but not least we have the immersive dream that is 'Panta Rhei', which completes a trio of electronica tunes on the album. Ambient music has been an integral part on almost every album Sven has written because it can bring a certain emotional deepness, a quality that Sven always has been looking for.
'Catharsis' is an adventurous album that captures the good times, the sad times and, most importantly, the times of hope.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
Tracklisting:
LP
1. (A1) Sven Väth - What I Used To Play
2. (A2) Sven Väth - The Worm
3. (B1) Sven Väth - Catharsis
4. (B2) Sven Väth - The Inner Voice
5. (C1) Sven Väth - Mystic Voices
6. (C2) Sven Väth - Nyx
7. (D1) Sven Väth - Butoh
8. (D2) Sven Väth - Feiern
9. (E1) Sven Väth - We Are
10. (E2) Sven Väth - Being In Love
11. (F1) Sven Väth - The Cranes Of Gangtey Valley
12. (F2) Sven Väth - Silvi's Dream
13. (F3) Sven Väth - Panta Rhei
Catharsis is Sven Väth's first solo album in almost 20 years, and the 50th album to be released on his incomparable label, Cocoon Recordings. Produced alongside Gregor Tresher, it arrives on 25 February 2022 and is a musical autobiography that charts Svens most extraordinary life in techno.
Without the West German-born Väth, techno would look, sound and feel very different. Since falling in love with electronic music and DJing in 1981, his dedication to the art has never faltered. He plays every party as if it were his last. His broad smile has connected with millions of people around the world. His colourful and curious character has imbued techno with a personality it was often lacking. His selections remain hugely unpredictable, despite the fact that he has been playing around the world for more than 40 years. To remain not only relevant but innovative after so long is a testament to Sven's ability to connect through music on a deeper level.
Technically, of course, he is a DJ who can play for thirty hours and not miss a beat. His track selections seem almost divine, and his aura is certainly otherworldly. But more than that, he is a ringleader who is able to mix the artful side of techno with the playful side of partying. Most famously he has done this for more than 20 years at his iconic Cocoon parties in Ibiza. They single-handedly introduced techno to the White Isle and have been its beating heart ever since. Under his charge, strict style guidelines and exaggerated pigeonholing no longer apply. Instead, he has perfected the art of playing far and wide while always remaining true to his own musical identity.
In the studio, Sven has always been just as unique. He has worked under several aliases but always brought a fresh perspective. Whether securing chart hits as part of OFF in the eighties, serving up brutalist techno and trance-tinged sounds in the nineties or crafting major label albums in the 2000s, his music has remained utterly forward-looking. That legacy continues with Catharsis as Sven teams up with highly respected producer Gregor Tresher for his latest long-form offering. Tresher has long been part of the Cocoon family and is a revered artist in his own right, when the two got together in the studio it was clear they had an instant connection and there would only be one person fit to co-author this LP.
It is a record inspired by Sven's interest in the physical and spiritual processes that take place when we dance. "They are realms into which we immerse ourselves to experience our own mysticism and ecstasy," he muses. "Dancing is a conversation between body and soul and it spiritually connects us with each other." Because of the pandemic, that is of course a feeling that we all missed out on for so long. "No dancing, no paradise!" says Sven. "My imagination for this record was fueled by the many cultural experiences and encounters I have had in my life. They gave me the strength to find a way, the way to myself." And that way to himself is through music, through purifying dancing rituals and the exchange of spiritual energies that are generated in the club.
The thirteen-track album explores all facets of Sven's sound. It opens with the stomping drums but sleek synths of 'What I Used To Play' and unfolds through deep and dirty rhythms like 'The Worm', subtly euphoric highs on 'The Inner Voice' and the bubbly tribalism of the title track. There is the impassioned call-to-arms that is 'Feiern', peak-time melodic workout 'Mystic Voices' and soothing electronic lullabies like 'Being In Love'. The second half of the album takes in many more twists and turns such as the exotic strings and driving drums of 'Butoh', the paranoid techno minimalism of 'NYX' and expansive synthscapes of ambient gem 'The Cranes Of Gangtey Valley' before things play out though rugged beats and emotive chords on 'We Are', which is named after the idea that we are what we think. "With our thoughts, we make the world.? says Sven.
Then comes the moody reflection of 'Silvi's Dream', which was written in French for Sven's girlfriend. Last but not least we have the immersive dream that is 'Panta Rhei', which completes a trio of electronica tunes on the album. Ambient music has been an integral part on almost every album Sven has written because it can bring a certain emotional deepness, a quality that Sven always has been looking for.
'Catharsis' is an adventurous album that captures the good times, the sad times and, most importantly, the times of hope.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
Sven Väth - (1) Mystic Voices (DE-Q20-22-00006)
2
Sven Väth - (2) Butoh (DE-Q20-22-00008)
Tracklist:
(1) Sven Väth – Mystic Voices (DE-Q20-22-00006)
(2) Sven Väth – Butoh (DE-Q20-22-00008)
Release Info:
Single release from the forthcoming album “Catharsis”, produced by Sven Va¨th & Gregor Tresher
The second release before the upcoming mighty new Sven Va¨th album “Catharsis” gives you another hint at what´s coming at you! Let us tell you, we couldn´t be more excited for everyone to finally experience Sven´s new masterpiece!
But before we unleash the beast, we decided to release a second single. This time containing two absolute highlight tracks. If you have heard Sven playing in the past months, you will recognize both, as they were pivotal moments in almost every set!
First up we have “Mystic Voices“, a track that was created during the early stages of the album production with Sven gathering ideas and words to finally record the unmistakable vocals during a hectic tour through India, and Gregor spending days and nights on the other side of the planet in his studio to process the stream of inspiration. When the two finally sat down together in the studio, the track emerged quickly. Some would call the instant vibe that magic that every creative mind is longing to find.
“Butoh” is a raw and dark force, influenced by Japanese dance, an art form that deeply touched Sven during his travels on Nippon Island. It´s an otherworldly sounding track, still based in the Techno Realm but heavily twisted by a long break that introduces Japanese percussions that eventually get topped by the haunting vocals of Cana Hatsushiba.
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WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
(1) Sven Väth – Mystic Voices (DE-Q20-22-00006)
(2) Sven Väth – Butoh (DE-Q20-22-00008)
Release Info:
Single release from the forthcoming album “Catharsis”, produced by Sven Va¨th & Gregor Tresher
The second release before the upcoming mighty new Sven Va¨th album “Catharsis” gives you another hint at what´s coming at you! Let us tell you, we couldn´t be more excited for everyone to finally experience Sven´s new masterpiece!
But before we unleash the beast, we decided to release a second single. This time containing two absolute highlight tracks. If you have heard Sven playing in the past months, you will recognize both, as they were pivotal moments in almost every set!
First up we have “Mystic Voices“, a track that was created during the early stages of the album production with Sven gathering ideas and words to finally record the unmistakable vocals during a hectic tour through India, and Gregor spending days and nights on the other side of the planet in his studio to process the stream of inspiration. When the two finally sat down together in the studio, the track emerged quickly. Some would call the instant vibe that magic that every creative mind is longing to find.
“Butoh” is a raw and dark force, influenced by Japanese dance, an art form that deeply touched Sven during his travels on Nippon Island. It´s an otherworldly sounding track, still based in the Techno Realm but heavily twisted by a long break that introduces Japanese percussions that eventually get topped by the haunting vocals of Cana Hatsushiba.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
Sven Väth - (1) Feiern (Original Mix) (DE-Q20-21-00006)
2
Sven Väth - (2) Feiern (Dub) (DE-Q20-21-00007)
Tracklist:
(1) Sven Väth – Feiern (Original Mix) (DE-Q20-21-00006)
(2) Sven Väth – Feiern (Dub) (DE-Q20-21-00007)
Release Info:
Single Release from the forthcoming album “Catharsis”, produced by Sven Väth & Gregor Tresher
The feeling that we have all been missing for so long
Ab jetzt, ab jetzt.
Die Quelle, die wir brauchen, der Beat, der Beat, der Beat.
Was die Sehnsucht so verstärkt.
Es ist die Quelle, die wir brauchen, der Beat, der Beat, der Beat.
Der uns zusammenhält. Was die Sehnsucht so verstärkt.
Ich will feiern!
…will wieder spüren, schwitzen und dich berühren.
Mich tief fallen lassen in diese Welten, die mir fehlten.
Ich will feiern!
Ab jetzt heißt‘s feiern, mit euch feiern. Ab jetzt heißt‘s feiern, mit euch feiern.
…will wieder spüren, schwitzen und dich berühren.
Mich tief fallen lassen in diese Welten, die mir fehlten.
Ich will feiern!
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
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DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
(1) Sven Väth – Feiern (Original Mix) (DE-Q20-21-00006)
(2) Sven Väth – Feiern (Dub) (DE-Q20-21-00007)
Release Info:
Single Release from the forthcoming album “Catharsis”, produced by Sven Väth & Gregor Tresher
The feeling that we have all been missing for so long
Ab jetzt, ab jetzt.
Die Quelle, die wir brauchen, der Beat, der Beat, der Beat.
Was die Sehnsucht so verstärkt.
Es ist die Quelle, die wir brauchen, der Beat, der Beat, der Beat.
Der uns zusammenhält. Was die Sehnsucht so verstärkt.
Ich will feiern!
…will wieder spüren, schwitzen und dich berühren.
Mich tief fallen lassen in diese Welten, die mir fehlten.
Ich will feiern!
Ab jetzt heißt‘s feiern, mit euch feiern. Ab jetzt heißt‘s feiern, mit euch feiern.
…will wieder spüren, schwitzen und dich berühren.
Mich tief fallen lassen in diese Welten, die mir fehlten.
Ich will feiern!
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
Jonathan Kaspar - (A1) Jonathan Kaspar – Invert Drift
2
Jonathan Kaspar - (A2) Jonathan Kaspar – Last Romance
3
Jonathan Kaspar - (B1) Jonathan Kaspar – Off The Shore
Tracklist:
(A1) Jonathan Kaspar – Invert Drift (DE-Q20-21-00003)
(A2) Jonathan Kaspar – Last Romance (DE-Q20-21-00004)
(B1) Jonathan Kaspar – Off The Shore (DE-Q20-21-00005)
Release Date:
Jonathan Kaspar has that rare, instinctive ability to germinate the seed of an idea and nurture it to its logical conclusion, both melodically and sonically. It’s why his stock has been rising so sharply in recent years with future classics already released on Kompakt and Objektivity to name but two, and he’s at it again on his debut EP for Cocoon Recordings with three distinctive tracks of sublime quality.
The first cut, Invert Drift, is also a phenomenal mixing tool. What starts off as an expectant minimal groove suddenly explodes with wild, cascading effects that hit you out of nowhere. Any DJ worth their salt will get tons of twisted pleasure orchestrating the crowd‘s synaptic meltdown with this one, but there‘s so much more going on behind the calculated mayhem. In true signature style Kaspar teases the listener, cranking up the pressure with a dark, brooding synth progression that lurks under the surface but never quite breaks free, leaving the morphing bass line, crunchy top loop and laser guided FX front and center. As it reaches its climax it’s like being caught in the crossfire of a Battlestar Galactia shoot out.
Last Romance is another master class in how to hypnotize the dance floor, this time by showering it in ecstasy. The patient, Latin-inflected build up accompanies a discordant metallic synth line that from hesitant beginnings slowly grows to dominate the track. It resonates beautifully almost creating its own language before deep, lush chords and a crystalline arp line flesh out the breakdown, making the hairs on your neck stand to attention.
Coming in at just over ten minutes, Off The Shore introduces a different aspect of Kaspar’s repertoire. With ambient, cinematic overtones and an otherworldly central motif that starts folding space in the extended breakdown, it’s a perfect early morning tonic that leads you off the beaten track, but still carries enough weight to keep the dance floor ticking over nicely.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
(A1) Jonathan Kaspar – Invert Drift (DE-Q20-21-00003)
(A2) Jonathan Kaspar – Last Romance (DE-Q20-21-00004)
(B1) Jonathan Kaspar – Off The Shore (DE-Q20-21-00005)
Release Date:
Jonathan Kaspar has that rare, instinctive ability to germinate the seed of an idea and nurture it to its logical conclusion, both melodically and sonically. It’s why his stock has been rising so sharply in recent years with future classics already released on Kompakt and Objektivity to name but two, and he’s at it again on his debut EP for Cocoon Recordings with three distinctive tracks of sublime quality.
The first cut, Invert Drift, is also a phenomenal mixing tool. What starts off as an expectant minimal groove suddenly explodes with wild, cascading effects that hit you out of nowhere. Any DJ worth their salt will get tons of twisted pleasure orchestrating the crowd‘s synaptic meltdown with this one, but there‘s so much more going on behind the calculated mayhem. In true signature style Kaspar teases the listener, cranking up the pressure with a dark, brooding synth progression that lurks under the surface but never quite breaks free, leaving the morphing bass line, crunchy top loop and laser guided FX front and center. As it reaches its climax it’s like being caught in the crossfire of a Battlestar Galactia shoot out.
Last Romance is another master class in how to hypnotize the dance floor, this time by showering it in ecstasy. The patient, Latin-inflected build up accompanies a discordant metallic synth line that from hesitant beginnings slowly grows to dominate the track. It resonates beautifully almost creating its own language before deep, lush chords and a crystalline arp line flesh out the breakdown, making the hairs on your neck stand to attention.
Coming in at just over ten minutes, Off The Shore introduces a different aspect of Kaspar’s repertoire. With ambient, cinematic overtones and an otherworldly central motif that starts folding space in the extended breakdown, it’s a perfect early morning tonic that leads you off the beaten track, but still carries enough weight to keep the dance floor ticking over nicely.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
André Galluzzi & Daniel Stefanik / Extra - 1. (A1) André Galluzzi & Daniel Stefanik – The Regulator (DE-Q20-20-00053)
2
André Galluzzi & Daniel Stefanik / Extra - 2. (B1) Extrawelt – Murder Ballet (DE-Q20-20-00054)
*** Artists: André Galluzzi & Daniel Stefanik / Extrawelt***
*** Title: 20 Years: Cocoon Recordings – EP5 ***
Tracklist:
1. (A1) André Galluzzi & Daniel Stefanik – The Regulator (DE-Q20-20-00053)
2. (B1) Extrawelt – Murder Ballet (DE-Q20-20-00054)
Release Info:
Cocoon's unique brand of techno has always been at the heart for the operation and now, these brand new and exclusive tracks confirm that once again. Dark industry when André Galluzzi & Daniel Stefanik link on 'The Regulator' and high grade machine soul from Extrawelt.
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DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
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*** Title: 20 Years: Cocoon Recordings – EP5 ***
Tracklist:
1. (A1) André Galluzzi & Daniel Stefanik – The Regulator (DE-Q20-20-00053)
2. (B1) Extrawelt – Murder Ballet (DE-Q20-20-00054)
Release Info:
Cocoon's unique brand of techno has always been at the heart for the operation and now, these brand new and exclusive tracks confirm that once again. Dark industry when André Galluzzi & Daniel Stefanik link on 'The Regulator' and high grade machine soul from Extrawelt.
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WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
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1
Petar Dundov / Sebastian Mullaert - 1. (A1) Petar Dundov – Overtone (DE-Q20-20-00055)
2
Petar Dundov / Sebastian Mullaert - 2. (B1) Sebastian Mullaert – Kikaqu (DE-Q20-20-00056)
Tracklist:
1. (A1) Petar Dundov – Overtone (DE-Q20-20-00055)
2. (B1) Sebastian Mullaert – Kikaqu (DE-Q20-20-00056)
Release Info:
Cocoon's unique brand of techno has always been at the heart for the operation and now, these brand new and exclusive tracks confirm that once again. Croatian mainstay Petar Dundov brings his trademark melodic magic to 'Overtone' and things come to a perfect close with the techno warmth and mellifluous synth work of Sebastian Mullaert's ‘Kikaqu'.
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DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1. (A1) Petar Dundov – Overtone (DE-Q20-20-00055)
2. (B1) Sebastian Mullaert – Kikaqu (DE-Q20-20-00056)
Release Info:
Cocoon's unique brand of techno has always been at the heart for the operation and now, these brand new and exclusive tracks confirm that once again. Croatian mainstay Petar Dundov brings his trademark melodic magic to 'Overtone' and things come to a perfect close with the techno warmth and mellifluous synth work of Sebastian Mullaert's ‘Kikaqu'.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
Customers who bought this also bought this
Label:WSNWG BACK TO ZERO
Cat-No:WSNWGBTZ011
Release-Date:04.04.2025
Genre:Techno
Configuration:2x12" Excl
Label:WSNWG BACK TO ZERO
Cat-No:WSNWGBTZ011
Release-Date:04.04.2025
Genre:Techno
Configuration:2x12" Excl
1
Ignez - Passion Overdrive
2
Pierce - Vairoc
3
Anika Kunst - Brain Wreck
4
Michael Ius - Electric Impulse
5
Tauceti - Iris d'Alger
6
Connor Wall - Disposed
7
Phillberg - Menace
8
Toru Ikemoto - Starry Enclave
Rødhåd presents: Solara Melfera - the second compilation on WSNWG - BACK TO ZERO will be released on April 4th. This Compilation features a selection of the finest contemporary techno music.
Each characterized by a vigorous commitment to the dance floor.Mastered by Connor Dalton ate Calyx Mastering in Berlin.
Vinyl Cut by Schnittstelle Mastering Berlin
Artwork & Layout by Mike Bierbach
WSNWG - BACK TO ZERO I 2025
A1 Ignez - Passion Overdrive
A2 Pierce - Vairoc
B1 Anika Kunst - Brain Wreck
B2 Michael Ius - Electric Impulse
C1 Tauceti - Iris d'Alger
C2 Connor Wall - Disposed
D1 Phillberg - Menace
D2 Toru Ikemoto - Starry Enclave
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
Each characterized by a vigorous commitment to the dance floor.Mastered by Connor Dalton ate Calyx Mastering in Berlin.
Vinyl Cut by Schnittstelle Mastering Berlin
Artwork & Layout by Mike Bierbach
WSNWG - BACK TO ZERO I 2025
A1 Ignez - Passion Overdrive
A2 Pierce - Vairoc
B1 Anika Kunst - Brain Wreck
B2 Michael Ius - Electric Impulse
C1 Tauceti - Iris d'Alger
C2 Connor Wall - Disposed
D1 Phillberg - Menace
D2 Toru Ikemoto - Starry Enclave
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
DJ Koze - Buschtaxi (Extended Version) (08:37 )
2
DJ Koze feat. Marley Waters - Brushcutter (05:19)
TRACKLIST 12” Vinyl
A - DJ Koze - Buschtaxi (Extended Version) 08:37
AA - DJ Koze feat. Marley Waters - Brushcutter 05:19
Info:
A-Side: Buschtaxi (Extended Version) - DJ Koze
Like an unleashed Tarzan, crashing through the skull directly into consciousness with his vine, Koze with Buschtaxi tears through the jungle.
With his unique recipe of psychedelic madness and spiritual potency, he picks up all the lost rave souls and drives them to a place no one knew existed.
Buschtaxi hits differently.
AA-Side: Brushcutter – DJ Koze feat. Marley Waters
A track like a displacement activity.
A deranged DJ Koze with a spinning brush cutter, alone in the desert – nothing to cut, just pure, unleashed power. The fight against nothingness.
Brushcutter isn’t music; it’s a trail burned straight through your consciousness.
It cuts deeper. Harder. Until the bigger picture comes into view again.
--
Original Tracks written and produced by Stefan Kozalla / Published by Kosikos Publishing
“Brushcutter” contains elements from “Onto You” written and composed by Brendon Allyn Waters. Published by Marley Waters Publishing/Sony Sonata. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Mastering by Hans Frage @ Deinklang
Cover Paintings: Gepa Hinrichsen
Artwork by Lilli Scheuerlein & Jonas Vogt
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DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
A - DJ Koze - Buschtaxi (Extended Version) 08:37
AA - DJ Koze feat. Marley Waters - Brushcutter 05:19
Info:
A-Side: Buschtaxi (Extended Version) - DJ Koze
Like an unleashed Tarzan, crashing through the skull directly into consciousness with his vine, Koze with Buschtaxi tears through the jungle.
With his unique recipe of psychedelic madness and spiritual potency, he picks up all the lost rave souls and drives them to a place no one knew existed.
Buschtaxi hits differently.
AA-Side: Brushcutter – DJ Koze feat. Marley Waters
A track like a displacement activity.
A deranged DJ Koze with a spinning brush cutter, alone in the desert – nothing to cut, just pure, unleashed power. The fight against nothingness.
Brushcutter isn’t music; it’s a trail burned straight through your consciousness.
It cuts deeper. Harder. Until the bigger picture comes into view again.
--
Original Tracks written and produced by Stefan Kozalla / Published by Kosikos Publishing
“Brushcutter” contains elements from “Onto You” written and composed by Brendon Allyn Waters. Published by Marley Waters Publishing/Sony Sonata. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Mastering by Hans Frage @ Deinklang
Cover Paintings: Gepa Hinrichsen
Artwork by Lilli Scheuerlein & Jonas Vogt
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WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
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DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
SLV - Signature
2
SLV - Do High
3
SLV - Far from the Madding
4
SLV - Overcircle
Genre: Techno
Tracklist 12":
A1 SLV – Signature
A2 SLV – Do High
B1 SLV – Far from the Madding
B2 SLV - Overcircle
Short Info: Fast and poundy techno rollers with dubby chords, trippy vocals and powerful basswork
Mastering & lacquer cut by Kassian Troyer at Dubplates & Mastering Berlin
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WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
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Tracklist 12":
A1 SLV – Signature
A2 SLV – Do High
B1 SLV – Far from the Madding
B2 SLV - Overcircle
Short Info: Fast and poundy techno rollers with dubby chords, trippy vocals and powerful basswork
Mastering & lacquer cut by Kassian Troyer at Dubplates & Mastering Berlin
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
52Energy - Café Del Mar (Amirali Extended Remix)
2
52Energy - Café Del Mar (REZarin Extended Remix)
GENRE/S:
Progressive House, Techno, Breaks
TRACKLISTS:
A - Café Del Mar (Amirali Extended Remix)
B - Café Del Mar (REZarin Extended Remix)
SHORT INFO:
Energy 52's Café Del Mar is one of the most iconic tracks in dance music. Over the years, Café Del Mar has achieved legendary status, regularly featuring in lists of the greatest dance tracks of all time. To put it simply, Café Del Mar is a cultural phenomenon, encapsulating the spirit of an era and influencing generations of artists and fans alike. This 10 inch release includes the new remixes from UK producer Amirali and Latvian DJ
REZarin.
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DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
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Progressive House, Techno, Breaks
TRACKLISTS:
A - Café Del Mar (Amirali Extended Remix)
B - Café Del Mar (REZarin Extended Remix)
SHORT INFO:
Energy 52's Café Del Mar is one of the most iconic tracks in dance music. Over the years, Café Del Mar has achieved legendary status, regularly featuring in lists of the greatest dance tracks of all time. To put it simply, Café Del Mar is a cultural phenomenon, encapsulating the spirit of an era and influencing generations of artists and fans alike. This 10 inch release includes the new remixes from UK producer Amirali and Latvian DJ
REZarin.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
Benjamin Damage - 010X (Hardspace Mix)
2
Aquatrax - Stabilize (Hardspace Mix)
12" transparent yellow vinyl with full cover print
TRACKLIST:
A. Benjamin Damage - 010X (Hardspace Mix)
B. Aquatrax - Stabilize (Hardspace Mix)
INFO:
Label head Len Faki continues his legacy of personalized remixes with this two-tracker, combining a personal favorite of him with a more recent output from his peers.
First up is the euphoric 010X by Benjaming Damage, whose anthemic chords have been ringing in our ears ever since its first release back in 2013. Faki reframes the standout lead and packages it neatly within his own jacking percussion, beefing up the low end and giving the melodic original a pronounced bassy drive.
Rewinding yet another decade, Aquatrax' Stabilize pulsates with the relentless energy of late 90's techno, formative years for Len Faki as an artist and also club regular. His take on the UK classic introduces a hypnotic dubby swirl, one of those perfect loops that is captivating from start to finish. The details ebb and flow with a subtlety unusual for his Hardspace alias, creating an immersive journey that's impossible to tap out of.
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WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
TRACKLIST:
A. Benjamin Damage - 010X (Hardspace Mix)
B. Aquatrax - Stabilize (Hardspace Mix)
INFO:
Label head Len Faki continues his legacy of personalized remixes with this two-tracker, combining a personal favorite of him with a more recent output from his peers.
First up is the euphoric 010X by Benjaming Damage, whose anthemic chords have been ringing in our ears ever since its first release back in 2013. Faki reframes the standout lead and packages it neatly within his own jacking percussion, beefing up the low end and giving the melodic original a pronounced bassy drive.
Rewinding yet another decade, Aquatrax' Stabilize pulsates with the relentless energy of late 90's techno, formative years for Len Faki as an artist and also club regular. His take on the UK classic introduces a hypnotic dubby swirl, one of those perfect loops that is captivating from start to finish. The details ebb and flow with a subtlety unusual for his Hardspace alias, creating an immersive journey that's impossible to tap out of.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
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1
Surgeon - Serpent Void 05:42
2
Surgeon - Soul Fire 06:06
3
Surgeon - Divine Shadow 05:36
4
Surgeon - Forgotten Gods 06:12
5
Surgeon - Dying 03:05
6
Surgeon - Infinite Eye 06:26
7
Surgeon - Triple Threat 06:35
8
Surgeon - Empty Cloud 04:29
9
Surgeon - Fall 04:57
TERRITORIES: WORLD minus UK
FORMAT 2 x 140g black vinyl, full printed special color sleeve (gold & blue pantone), download card included
TRACKLIST
1. / A1 Serpent Void 05:42
2. / A2 Soul Fire 06:06
3. / B1 Divine Shadow 05:36
4. / B2 Forgotten Gods 06:12
5. / B3 Dying 03:05
6. / C1 Infinite Eye 06:26
7. / C2 Triple Threat 06:35
8. / D1 Empty Cloud 04:29
9. / D2 Fall 04:57
RELEASE:
Two years after releasing the acclaimed Crash Recoil, Anthony Child aka Surgeon returns to Tresor with new LP, Shell~Wave. Retaining the minimal equipment list and studio-version-of-live-show-sets approach of the previous album in order to focus on
the work itself, Shell~Wave is a deeply personal document of both where Surgeon is and has been, converging three decades of experience with a continued curiosity in the untested.
“To make this project, I had to dig really deep in terms of what my relationship was to techno; I’ve been involved with it for a really long time and there’s a lot about it I feel dislocated from, so I had to really think hard about what techno is to me. I often
get asked “what is techno to you?” but I can’t answer that with words; this album is the answer.” From the complex, twisting track Infinite Eye to the caustic Soul Fire, the eight tracks that make up the body of the album are single-take explorations of the
vast, hard yet minimal techno Child is synonymous with.
Neatly dividing the record in two, the emotional centre of the record comes in the form of Dying, a vibrating, beatless piece that with a mantra-like vocal loop steeped in reverberating effects. Further echoes of dub production appear throughout the record
as tracks like Divine Shadow, and Empty Cloud have an almost ever-present mist of reverberation, driven by the appearance of a new delay unit in the equipment list; while much of the philosophy of Crash Recoil’s creation is present, the process and the
instruments have changed as Child again switches up his approach to studio work.
This insistence on trying novel techniques doesn’t preclude returning to old ones, as this use of modern digital machines with live, hands-on takes that are as inspired by 60s producer Joe Meek and 70s reggae as they are by this year’s synthesiser expos.
“For me, it’s an interesting experience returning to old techniques again after 30 years. [I’m] always exploring and finding myself back at the beginning. Connecting the present with the past.”
This philosophy of ‘time travel’ is inherent to the music itself as the synchronised loops repeat while the delay and effects branch out, forming unique eddies; distinct quantum moments within the circular whole; the future leaking through the spaces
between the sounds. All of the concepts on the album are perfectly communicated through the painting by Taiwanese artist Jazz Szu-Ying Chen which suggests the movement of water, sound waves, and the chitinous shells of sea creatures.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
FORMAT 2 x 140g black vinyl, full printed special color sleeve (gold & blue pantone), download card included
TRACKLIST
1. / A1 Serpent Void 05:42
2. / A2 Soul Fire 06:06
3. / B1 Divine Shadow 05:36
4. / B2 Forgotten Gods 06:12
5. / B3 Dying 03:05
6. / C1 Infinite Eye 06:26
7. / C2 Triple Threat 06:35
8. / D1 Empty Cloud 04:29
9. / D2 Fall 04:57
RELEASE:
Two years after releasing the acclaimed Crash Recoil, Anthony Child aka Surgeon returns to Tresor with new LP, Shell~Wave. Retaining the minimal equipment list and studio-version-of-live-show-sets approach of the previous album in order to focus on
the work itself, Shell~Wave is a deeply personal document of both where Surgeon is and has been, converging three decades of experience with a continued curiosity in the untested.
“To make this project, I had to dig really deep in terms of what my relationship was to techno; I’ve been involved with it for a really long time and there’s a lot about it I feel dislocated from, so I had to really think hard about what techno is to me. I often
get asked “what is techno to you?” but I can’t answer that with words; this album is the answer.” From the complex, twisting track Infinite Eye to the caustic Soul Fire, the eight tracks that make up the body of the album are single-take explorations of the
vast, hard yet minimal techno Child is synonymous with.
Neatly dividing the record in two, the emotional centre of the record comes in the form of Dying, a vibrating, beatless piece that with a mantra-like vocal loop steeped in reverberating effects. Further echoes of dub production appear throughout the record
as tracks like Divine Shadow, and Empty Cloud have an almost ever-present mist of reverberation, driven by the appearance of a new delay unit in the equipment list; while much of the philosophy of Crash Recoil’s creation is present, the process and the
instruments have changed as Child again switches up his approach to studio work.
This insistence on trying novel techniques doesn’t preclude returning to old ones, as this use of modern digital machines with live, hands-on takes that are as inspired by 60s producer Joe Meek and 70s reggae as they are by this year’s synthesiser expos.
“For me, it’s an interesting experience returning to old techniques again after 30 years. [I’m] always exploring and finding myself back at the beginning. Connecting the present with the past.”
This philosophy of ‘time travel’ is inherent to the music itself as the synchronised loops repeat while the delay and effects branch out, forming unique eddies; distinct quantum moments within the circular whole; the future leaking through the spaces
between the sounds. All of the concepts on the album are perfectly communicated through the painting by Taiwanese artist Jazz Szu-Ying Chen which suggests the movement of water, sound waves, and the chitinous shells of sea creatures.
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1
Tal Fussman - I Feel
2
Tal Fussman - MAD
3
Tal Fussman - Bongo Man
4
Tal Fussman - Life Itself ft. 8-AN
Tal Fussman returns to Rekids with the ‘I Feel’ EP. Rekids welcomes back Tal Fussman with the ‘I Feel’ EP, following up his 2024 ‘De?nition’ EP on Radio Slave’s label, which won support from the likes of Honey Dijon, Orlando Voorn, Yu Su, Saoirse, Dave Clarke, and more. The Innvervisions, COD3QR artist and Survival Tactics label boss starts ‘I Feel’ with the title track and, in true Fussman fashion, infuses drummy club cuts with plenty of feeling via soulful synths and apt vocal sampling. The rolling organic percussion of ‘MAD’ continues, locking us in the groove while hard-hitting stabs ?y above before ‘Bongo Man’ channels the lush sounds of the rainforest alongside more expert drum work. Closing out the ‘I Feel’ EP, Tal Fussman works with fellow producer 8-AN to drop the dream-like strings of ‘Life Itself’, another deep track that is as club-ready as it is introspective.
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1
Delano Smith - When I Was Young
2
Delano Smith - The Rush
3
Delano Smith - Rewired
NEW DELANO SMITH !
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1
Dam Swindle - Home
2
Dam Swindle - Not enough feat. Haile Supreme
3
Dam Swindle - The present is always perfect
4
Dam Swindle - Girl feat. Faye Meana
5
Dam Swindle - Run, run, run
6
Dam Swindle - Only ever now
7
Dam Swindle - Open feat. Samson
8
Dam Swindle - I need you
9
Dam Swindle - Bloom feat. Joep Beving
10
Dam Swindle - Some day feat. Ric Wilson
11
Dam Swindle - Kiki feat. LYMA
12
Dam Swindle - Is this love?
13
Dam Swindle - It's okay, I can wait
14
Dam Swindle - Closer
Format: 2LP (180 gr., Bio Vinyl, Limited Full Cover)
Track list:
A1. Home
A2. Not enough feat. Haile Supreme
A3. The present is always perfect
A4. Girl feat. Faye Meana
B1. Run, run, run
B2. Only ever now
B3. Open feat. Samson
C1. I need you
C2. Bloom feat. Joep Beving
C3. Some day feat. Ric Wilson
C4. Kiki feat. LYMA
D1. Is this love?
D2. It's okay, I can wait
D3. Closer
Release Info:
Amsterdam natives Maarten Smeets and Lars Dales, aka Dam Swindle, unveil their third long-player with the release of a new track, the first to be shared from the upcoming album, ‘Open’ - out on 30 May 2025 via Heist Recordings.
The new album sees the acclaimed duo dive far beyond the deep sonic waters they’re most known for, exploring lower tempos, synthwave, hip-house, and ambient across fourteen tracks. With a gestation period that traces back several years, ‘Open’ is their most intimate and personal body of work thus far, birthed during a time of self-reflection away from touring and personal transformation as individuals.
“We felt the need to tell a very personal story through our music as a translation of our personal development in the past years. We also wanted to make music without a specific goal in mind; We simply wanted to create. By taking away the grid of dance music and any expectations of what a Dam Swindle song should sound like, the creativity started to flow naturally with songs in many different styles and tempos. The result is an album that feels refreshing and uplifting and still very much true to the heart and soul of our sound.” - Dam Swindle, January 2025.
While the trademark Dam Swindle four-to-the-floor beats are still ever-present on tracks like ‘The Present Is Always Perfect’, ‘I Need You’, and ‘Is This Love?’, it’s the gentle waves of synths on opener ‘Home’, the contemplative piano chords of ‘Bloom’ featuring Joep Beving, and the lo-fi ambience of ‘It’s Okay, I Can Wait’ that showcase a melancholic, ethereal sensibility previously uncharted by the duo. Collaborations with vocalists such as NYC’s Haile Supreme on ‘Not Enough’ and Neo-soul singer Faye Meana on ‘Girl’ expertly find room in between the dancefloor and home listening sessions, and a clear standout on the LP is the title cut where message-heavy rapped vocals from UK artist Samson ebb and flow amongst iridescent grooves.
Under the helm of Maarten and Lars’ adept A&R, their Heist imprint has become a beloved home for house heads of both schools old and new, platforming some of dance music’s biggest names from Cinthie to DJ Sneak as well as the musical dawnings of artists such as Kassian and Makèz. The Dam Swindle alias has achieved house music royalty-like status across a storied 15-year career that includes two critically lauded full-lengths, collaborations with the likes of Tom Misch and Kerri Chandler, and a globetrotting touring schedule. This album stands as their most profoundly personal work of art to date, and they can’t wait to share it with you.
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Germany
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Track list:
A1. Home
A2. Not enough feat. Haile Supreme
A3. The present is always perfect
A4. Girl feat. Faye Meana
B1. Run, run, run
B2. Only ever now
B3. Open feat. Samson
C1. I need you
C2. Bloom feat. Joep Beving
C3. Some day feat. Ric Wilson
C4. Kiki feat. LYMA
D1. Is this love?
D2. It's okay, I can wait
D3. Closer
Release Info:
Amsterdam natives Maarten Smeets and Lars Dales, aka Dam Swindle, unveil their third long-player with the release of a new track, the first to be shared from the upcoming album, ‘Open’ - out on 30 May 2025 via Heist Recordings.
The new album sees the acclaimed duo dive far beyond the deep sonic waters they’re most known for, exploring lower tempos, synthwave, hip-house, and ambient across fourteen tracks. With a gestation period that traces back several years, ‘Open’ is their most intimate and personal body of work thus far, birthed during a time of self-reflection away from touring and personal transformation as individuals.
“We felt the need to tell a very personal story through our music as a translation of our personal development in the past years. We also wanted to make music without a specific goal in mind; We simply wanted to create. By taking away the grid of dance music and any expectations of what a Dam Swindle song should sound like, the creativity started to flow naturally with songs in many different styles and tempos. The result is an album that feels refreshing and uplifting and still very much true to the heart and soul of our sound.” - Dam Swindle, January 2025.
While the trademark Dam Swindle four-to-the-floor beats are still ever-present on tracks like ‘The Present Is Always Perfect’, ‘I Need You’, and ‘Is This Love?’, it’s the gentle waves of synths on opener ‘Home’, the contemplative piano chords of ‘Bloom’ featuring Joep Beving, and the lo-fi ambience of ‘It’s Okay, I Can Wait’ that showcase a melancholic, ethereal sensibility previously uncharted by the duo. Collaborations with vocalists such as NYC’s Haile Supreme on ‘Not Enough’ and Neo-soul singer Faye Meana on ‘Girl’ expertly find room in between the dancefloor and home listening sessions, and a clear standout on the LP is the title cut where message-heavy rapped vocals from UK artist Samson ebb and flow amongst iridescent grooves.
Under the helm of Maarten and Lars’ adept A&R, their Heist imprint has become a beloved home for house heads of both schools old and new, platforming some of dance music’s biggest names from Cinthie to DJ Sneak as well as the musical dawnings of artists such as Kassian and Makèz. The Dam Swindle alias has achieved house music royalty-like status across a storied 15-year career that includes two critically lauded full-lengths, collaborations with the likes of Tom Misch and Kerri Chandler, and a globetrotting touring schedule. This album stands as their most profoundly personal work of art to date, and they can’t wait to share it with you.
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WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
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Germany
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1
isolée - chopstick!
2
isolée - love algorithm
3
isolée - OMG so random
4
isolée - love algorithm (3rd paces dub)
GENRE: House
TRACKLIST:
A1 chopstick!
A2 love algorithm
B1 OMG so random
B2 love algorithm (3rd paces dub)
SHORT INFO:
isolée is best known for his early work, the now 90s classic "beau mot plage" (1998), included on his first Album "rest" (2000), his second album "we are monster" selected as "best new album" and highly rated Album of the year 2005 in Pitchfork. "Allowance" (2013) on DJ Koze's Pampa Label, "Pisco" (2016) on Mano le Tough's Label Maeve, and the launch of his own Label "resort island" with his 4th album "resort island" in 2023 are the highlights to date.
"love algorithm," the first singles title pulls us into the rabbit hole of social media. Love and algorithm—can they even go together? In this deep house track isolée embraces the unpredictable. The slacker who takes things at his own pace. He leisurely lets some vocal debris wail through the track, and fans might recognise a Kerri Chandler vibe in the background textures, maybe more obvious in the stripped down B side “3rd places dub” version.
"OMG so random" seems oldscool, not boosting the tempo. Though not being "fast", this track is pushing and powerful. It’s classy dub sounds and textures put up against some scratchy, seemingly exotic, flute-like instru-ments make this track less obvious to categories than it might seem at first. It marries the reflection of a con-templative tune with the quality to be a dance track.
On „chopstick!", the third and final single, the bass line dominates, too. isolée rediscovered one of his analog 80s Roland synthesizers, the MKS30, which creates that distinctive thudding sound. This track picks up the pace the most.
VITAL SALES POINTS:
With the launch of his own Label „resort island“, the release of his critically acclaimed 4th album in 2023, Isolée has drawn some attention to his music after a long period of silence. Expectations are high on what’s coming next, especially on his unweathered new label. With the 3rd release „resort island“ the label also did refine it’s graphics, to complement the soundscapes of this dizzy island.
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WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
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Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
TRACKLIST:
A1 chopstick!
A2 love algorithm
B1 OMG so random
B2 love algorithm (3rd paces dub)
SHORT INFO:
isolée is best known for his early work, the now 90s classic "beau mot plage" (1998), included on his first Album "rest" (2000), his second album "we are monster" selected as "best new album" and highly rated Album of the year 2005 in Pitchfork. "Allowance" (2013) on DJ Koze's Pampa Label, "Pisco" (2016) on Mano le Tough's Label Maeve, and the launch of his own Label "resort island" with his 4th album "resort island" in 2023 are the highlights to date.
"love algorithm," the first singles title pulls us into the rabbit hole of social media. Love and algorithm—can they even go together? In this deep house track isolée embraces the unpredictable. The slacker who takes things at his own pace. He leisurely lets some vocal debris wail through the track, and fans might recognise a Kerri Chandler vibe in the background textures, maybe more obvious in the stripped down B side “3rd places dub” version.
"OMG so random" seems oldscool, not boosting the tempo. Though not being "fast", this track is pushing and powerful. It’s classy dub sounds and textures put up against some scratchy, seemingly exotic, flute-like instru-ments make this track less obvious to categories than it might seem at first. It marries the reflection of a con-templative tune with the quality to be a dance track.
On „chopstick!", the third and final single, the bass line dominates, too. isolée rediscovered one of his analog 80s Roland synthesizers, the MKS30, which creates that distinctive thudding sound. This track picks up the pace the most.
VITAL SALES POINTS:
With the launch of his own Label „resort island“, the release of his critically acclaimed 4th album in 2023, Isolée has drawn some attention to his music after a long period of silence. Expectations are high on what’s coming next, especially on his unweathered new label. With the 3rd release „resort island“ the label also did refine it’s graphics, to complement the soundscapes of this dizzy island.
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WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore
1
First Choice - A1 - Let No Man Put Asunder
2
First Choice - B1 - Let No Man Put Asunder (Ron Hardy Edit)
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1
Hiroyuki Kato - Ngoma
2
Hiroyuki Kato - You
3
Hiroyuki Kato - Next
4
Hiroyuki Kato - Donny
GENRE/S: Deep House, House
TRACKLISTS:
A1 Hiroyuki Kato – Ngoma
A2 Hiroyuki Kato – You
B1 Hiroyuki Kato – Next
B2 Hiroyuki Kato – Donny
SHORT INFO:
fellice founder effgee welcomes the first new family member: Hiroyuki Kato delivers a deep house EP that is organic and warm, characterised by jazzy chords, grooves, and distinctive sound design.
The EP, Potter, features emotive loops that at times carry a live, dreamy feel or a heavier, club-ready energy, and is a handcrafted piece—much like the pottery surrounding Hiroyuki Kato’s studio in Seto City, Japan.
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TRACKLISTS:
A1 Hiroyuki Kato – Ngoma
A2 Hiroyuki Kato – You
B1 Hiroyuki Kato – Next
B2 Hiroyuki Kato – Donny
SHORT INFO:
fellice founder effgee welcomes the first new family member: Hiroyuki Kato delivers a deep house EP that is organic and warm, characterised by jazzy chords, grooves, and distinctive sound design.
The EP, Potter, features emotive loops that at times carry a live, dreamy feel or a heavier, club-ready energy, and is a handcrafted piece—much like the pottery surrounding Hiroyuki Kato’s studio in Seto City, Japan.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: gpsr@wordandsound.netMore