Mella Dee
Strictly Ruffneck EP

EYA Records gets off to a strong start of 2022 by inviting ‘The Nothing Special’ producer Oli Silva and Argentinian hardware maestro Manuk for their 16th release.A1 ‘ Mirage man’ by Manuk is a wonderful, expressive techno and trance infused number, while A2 ‘Mutant Mindset’ by Oli Silva has a raw breakbeat impact with classy eerie chords, haunting vocals, and a killer bassline.B1 is the result of the joint effort by the two producers, ‘Multiple Minglings’ is a very impactful psychedelic journey. The EP is completed by a ‘Freestyle’ remix of B1 by UK legendary producer Dave Campbell aka HI-Ryze.

The sixth UFOs outing is another intergalactic adventure in sonic form and this time at the buttons it's New Balaance, a Mexican artist at the heart of a new wave. Space Jungle though is an apt title for this EP, which kicks off with some stylish breaks and nimble basslines overlaid with lush cosmic arps. 'Space Jungle' (feat Parallax Modulators brings a more pensive mood thanks to the sustained chords and deeper grooves, but subtle acid and chattery perc bring it to life. 'Grantourismo' is a lively and dynamic cut with more swirling synth work while 'Redemption' closes down this quartet of excellent explorations with a mix of 90s prog, techno and breakbeats all imbued with plenty of colour.

Fresh out of Leeds, Kitchens inc. are back with their second release for the new label. This edition sees four unique cuts with a slick remix from Carpet & Snares own, Jorge Caiado on the A-side. And joining forces with Triform for a collaboration project on the flip along with more of their own material. All four tracks have a different flavour, versatile and genre crossing grooves on a house / breaks vibe.

The first vinyl release from s2i Recordings introduces Fader Cap (previously Sedgwick). An existential trip across 3 tracks recorded in one 12 hour session, with the source material written for live-performance in early 2021. Heavy on the 303, with rhythmic propulsion for the breaks-inclined heads. Tinged with heavy nostalgia for the atmosphere of DIY sound systems in the Australian bush.

Bobby. returns to his own label Pleasure Club with his most refined work to date, an EP entitled “Before We Look Out, Let’s Look In”.The fabric resident presents his fifth full release, this time traversing the full spectrum of surrealist house, techno & electro; the kind which has become synonymous with his journey style DJ sets. As the title suggests this record transmits a deeply introspective and personal take on modern day club music. Melody, emotion and drama stay present throughout, with plenty of twists and turns along the way. With glimmers of early 00’s minimal, cosmic synthwave-style EBM and razor sharp electro, it is a record which references the past, but presents it updated and ready for dance floors of the future. With a debut album in the works for the end of the year, this release acts as an exciting precursor and marks a new chapter in the artists career.

Hardacre's debut album on Alien Communications, jam-packed with acid, techno and electro bombs. Highly recommended!