BEATSELECTOR Magazine April/May 2021

THE KENNETH BAGER EXPERIENCE FRAGMENTS FROM A DUB CADET

BRAZIL’S MOST LISTENED TO ARTIST! ON TOP OF THE WORLD

2020’s #5 DJ GLOBALLY, FORBES BRASIL’S 30 UNDER 30 HONOREE, PHILANTHROPIST & BURGEONING LABEL OWNER SHARES HOW HE GOT THERE!

››AUDIOJACK FROM TWO SMALL-TOWN NOBODIES WHO WERE TEN TO THE DOZEN TO BECOMING GLOBAL PROMINATE PLAYERS.

››DJ YEMI FROM NIGERIA TO WEST VIRGINIA’S COUNTRY ROADS.

ONTHERISE 4KASAN DA’ JULAH 4TONEBEATZ

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AM.I JOSEPH EDMUND LILLY PALMER NEWS NEW RELEASE PREVIEWS NEW MUSIC REVIEWS

Features

APRIL/MAY 2021

THE COVER FEATURE

52 ALOK

ALOK has become one of the most prominent artists on the Brazilian scene, with honors, awards and milestones such as being the first Brazilian to reach more than 1 billion plays on Spotify; landing the 5th best DJ spot in the world by the British magazine DJ Mag in 2020; he is the only Brazilian to join Billboard’s unprecedented list of the 100 best DJs globally, and named by Forbes Brasil as one of the most influential people under the age of 30 in the country.

44 AUDIOJACK

UK-duo Audiojack (James Rial & Richard Burkinshaw) have remained at the forefront of electronic music for over a decade. Fast forwarding to 2021, Audiojack is getting ready for the release of their latest full length album, “Surface Tension” on Crosstown Rebels (available April 30, 2021) and we get the opportunity to share with you their incredible story.

62 DJ YEMI

DJ Yemi (Yemi Shonibare) hails from the beautiful “Mountain State” and home to the perinnial “Party School” West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV. He has shared the stage with artists such as Outkast, Travis Scott, MGK, Big Sean, Lil Dickey, Snoop Dogg and many more. Yemi graciously takes the time and shares his musical journey, why he calls West Virginia home and hypes his latest single “Johnny Cage.”

Cover Photography courtesy of Gabriel Wickbold Table of Contents Photography courtesy of Gil Inouie

Departments 14 ICYMI

A ROUND-UP OF RECENT NEWS FROM AROUND THE WEB.

22 NEW MUSIC PREVIEWS

KRYDER, GARDENS OF GOD, LAIDBACK LUKE, ILAN BLUESTONE, VICETONE, CHRIS GEKÄ.

34 BUZZ WORTHY/ARTIST PROFILES LILLY PALMER, AM.I, JOSEPH EDMUND.

36 ON THE RISE

PRODUCER KASAN DA’JULAH & BEAT MAKER TONEBEATZ.

68 REVIEWS

THE KENNETH BAGER EXPERIENCE’S FRAGMENTS FROM A DUB CADET.

OPENING NOTES

by JOSEPH WENSELL

APRIL/MAY 2021 Our April/May 2021 Cover Artist, Alok is an exceptional human being, let alone a globally recognized DJ, producer, Label owner and Philanthropist. We have the pleasure and privilege to share with you an indepth Q&A delving into a myriad of subjects and passions that are important to the Brazilian superstar.

and more. Closing up the April/ May 2021 issue, we review The Kenneth Bager Experience’s “Fragments From A Dub Cadet” which happens to get very marks, as well as a few others that should be in your music libraries.

Our other feature interviews include Audiojack who happen to have a brand new release dropping on April 30th, and we throw some love to a fellow West Virginian, DJ Yemi, a music entrepreneur, master mixer, producer, Rapper and DJ from Morgantown. Let’s gooo!

This issue’s Buzz Worthy/Artist Profiles include Lilly Palmer, AM.I and Joseph Edmund.

Our “On The Rise” column returns with Shon Murdock delivering Q&As with Producer Kasan Da’ Julah and beat maker TONEBEATZ discussing proaudio gear, musical influences

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We also catch you up with recent ICYMI news and a several new music previews.

Read, stay safe and be healthy and have a wonderful Spring season!

—JW

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B EATSELECTOR Moving Electronic Music Forward

PUBLISHER

JOSEPH WENSELL CONTRIBUTORS Catherine Strickland Cody Miller Cory Royster Erik L. Richardson Holly Roscoe James Arena Joseph Arthur Karin Haslinger Leo Weaver Shon Murdock Tim Stark Vladimir Jean-Philippe Zach Miller

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ICYMI NEWS FROM AROUND THE WEB

nADE confirms its 25th anniversary edition in physical form with both

conference and festival events set to take place on October 13-17, 2021.

Additionally, the organization supports music professionals during the re-opening of the live music industry by making its online B2B platform free-to-access on the road to ADE 2021.

As a result of the widespread vaccination campaign and rapid test capacity in the Netherlands, ADE expects to celebrate the reopening of its industry at its 25th anniversary edition in Amsterdam taking place from the 13th through 17th of October.

The organization is dedicated to presenting the best possible ADE experience while ensuring public health guidelines, featuring a rich and diverse program for professionals, artists and music enthusiasts alike.

The ADE team is thrilled to kick off the road to the ADE Festival 2021 with a varied lineup of organizers announcing their first shows, including Audio Obscura, Awakenings, DGTL, Dockyard, Elrow, Into the Woods, Loveland and Verknipt, as well as venues Concertgebouw, Panama, Melkweg and Paradiso. The latter two have already announced part of their program, with artists including Dave Clarke and Oliver Heldens for Melkweg and Avalon Emerson and Speedy J presents STOOR live for Paradiso set to take the stage.

Music professionals can gear up for the ADE Pro conference program at Amsterdam’s iconic Felix Meritis in October. In addition, the Amsterdam Dance Event Foundation extends its support to the live music industry by inviting music professionals to become an active part of the road to ADE 2021 on its online B2B platform, completely free of charge.

Through key learnings from international success cases, innovations and strategies shared across a growing network of peers, ADE invites members of the global electronic music community to find out together how the post-Covid structure of the music business will look as the live industry rebuilds and reopens globally.

Anyone interested can sign up for the first sessions and join the discussion with key industry players and experts, starting in April 2021.

Moreover, music professionals can now register for the physical ADE Pro Pass at a guaranteed lowest price by signing up here.

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ICYMI NEWS FROM AROUND THE WEB

n Armin van Buuren and Steve Aoki launched

their own dance music streaming channels exclusively on SiriusXM on February 3. A State of Armin will feature the best selections in new and upcoming trance and progressive dance music, as well as classics from both Armin van Buuren and his collaborators from over the past 20 years. The channel will also feature A State of Trance, Armin van Buuren’s long running weekly show where listeners get to hear Armin debut new and exclusive music and DJ sets from his studio in Amsterdam and from festivals around the world. Additional shows launching at a later date include Armin’s recently launched World Wide Club 20 show and Armada Next, the radio show of leading dance music label Armada Music, of which Armin van Buuren is a cofounder, hosted by Armada Music CEO Maykel Piron.

Steve Aoki’s Remix Radio will feature Steve Aoki curating and playing dance remixes of the top pop and dance hits as well as his own original tracks.

Additionally, listeners will hear Aoki’s favorite songs handpicked by him. The new channel will air Steve Aoki’s Remix Rewind, where Aoki hand

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picks his favorite 5 remixes of the week, and Aoki’s House, Aoki’s weekly mix show. Two time Grammy-nominated DJ/producer, Dim Mak Records founder, fashion designer, author, and entrepreneur Steve Aoki stands as one of the most successful American cross-genre artists, solidified via dozens of multi-platinum releases, multiple awards, billions of music and video streams and innovative crossplatform projects. The launch of both new dance channels further expands SiriusXM’s relationships with Armin van Buuren and Steve Aoki. Armin van Buuren has hosted a weekly show, A State of Sundays on SiriusXM for over 10 years. Steve Aoki has hosted a weekly show, Steve Aoki’s Remix Rewind, on SiriusXM’s BPM channel for the past 7 years.

Subscribers are able to listen online, on-the-go with the SiriusXM mobile app, and at home on a wide variety of connected devices including smart TVs, devices with Amazon Alexa or the Google Assistant, Apple TV, PlayStation, Roku, Sonos speakers and more. Go to www.siriusxm.com/ways-to-listen to learn more.

nThe Lady of the House is a large-scale hardback

book by Laila McKenzie and Ian ‘Snowy’ Snowball.

The book contains beautiful images and interviews with women who have contributed, and continue to contribute, to making the house music scene.

The book includes interviews with DJs, Producers, Artists, Promoters and Management. Our first five interviews came from Candi Staton, Barbara Tucker, Sam Divine, Maxinne and Kym Mazelle.

The book has continued to grow over the last year, taking us to places we could only have dreamt of with contributions from so many influential people in house music.

From those who were there in the beginning up to present day advocates who help to keep the scene alive, thriving and constantly evolving.

The women included in The Lady of the House tell their stories of the part they play in house music, the music that we love, and continue to enjoy and dance to. Hundreds of women have shared their stories and experiences, making ‘Lady of the House’ an invaluable record of the evolution of house music and women’s central role within it. But The Lady of the House is so much more than just women in house,

it’s about women being creative and doing what they love to do.

In a time where so much change has happened and so many inequalities have been brought to light over the last year we want to ensure the legacy of women’s power is passed down to future generations.

The interviews are rich with stories of determination, empowerment, inspiration, challenges, passion, education, having goals and, simply realizing dreams.

Interviewees include Candi Staton, Barbara Tucker, Sam Divine, DJ Maxinne, Lynn Cosgrave, Rowetta, Ellen Allien, Nicky Trax, Janet Bell, Julie McKnight, Kathy Brown, Anja Schneider, Black Girl/White Girl, Ultra Nate, Jocelyn Brown, Arielle Free, Rochelle Fleming, DJ Paulette, Gladys Pizarro, Abigail Adams, Anne Savage, DJ Rap, Kym Sims, Judy Griffith, Kym Mazelle, and many more.

The printing of the book is funded by a Kickstarter campaign, launched on 8th March 8th ,which will allow fans of the book to support us directly. Information on the various pledging options are available on their kickstarter page https://www.kickstarter.com/ projects/ladyofthehouse/lady-of-the-house.

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ICYMI NEWS FROM AROUND THE WEB

nQuetame Records is a new deep and organic

house label that’s headed up by El Mundo, Zazou and Niki Sadeki. The debut release is a stunning four-track EP by El Mundo & Zazou whose eloquent style of soaring melodies fused with delicate percussion is on full display. Based in The Netherlands, El Mundo has performed as a DJ and live-act together with Zazou across The World and released music on labels such as Do Not Sit On The Furniture Recordings, Kindisch, Souq Records and Earthly Delights. Zazou is a Berlin-based artist, multi-instrumentalist and regular collaborator with El Mundo, but he has also released solo tracks with imprints such as Laut und Luise and Rebellion der

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Traumer. This truly is a magical EP with stunning vocals amidst its dazzling array of vibrant textures and nomadic grooves. “Sands of Time” opens the release with its soothing atmosphere and haunting vocals nestled amidst a dreamscape of ethereal synths which are underpinned by a throbbing bassline. Second on the EP with jovial melodies and digitized vocals, “Watch Me Burn” has a cosmic vibe that sets a trajectory towards the stars with its expansive sound design. After a cinematic opening, “The River” is third on the release with its haunting vocals and poignant piano. Like a choir of angels, it’s eloquently beautiful while also retaining an understated aesthetic.

and we’ve been playing it in our livestreams a lot,” said artist Sofi Tukker. “It’s the ultimate joy to have made something we love, discover new artists in the process, and be contributing to reducing the impact of COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa all in one. We’re grateful to be involved in this project and excited to hear all the other remixes.”

“We are honored that our family of Mavin artists and so many talented producers and DJs have joined together to create an album in support of (RED) and their fight against AIDS and COVID-19. This album celebrates dance music as a way to create hope and unity during these uncertain times, and despite all that is happening, we can spread joy through our music and art,” said Don Jazzy, Founder and President, Mavin Records.

nIn honor of (RED)’s 15th anniversary, Mavin

Records and (RED) are joining forces to launch DANCE (RED) SAVE LIVES Vol. III, a new Afrobeatsinspired album that raises money for the Global Fund COVID-19 Response. Launched April 2, 2021, the album is available to stream and download worldwide with proceeds going to support (RED)’s efforts to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on life-saving HIV/ AIDS programs in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Afrobeats-inspired DANCE (RED) SAVE LIVES Vol. III is curated by the legendary Afrobeats producer, Don Jazzy, and musical artist, Aluna. The album features tracks by leading hitmakers including: Aluna, Ayra Starr, Becky G, Burssbrain, Crayon, Chris Trucher, Di’Ja, Fela Kuti, Felix Da Housecat, GuiltyBeatz, Johnny Drille, Kaku, Korede Bello, LADIPOE, LILO, Michael Brun, Moody Jones, RDD, Rema, Riel, Sigag Lauren, Simi, Sofi Tukker, Tiwa Savage, TOKiMONSTA, Tuyo, UNIIQU3, Virgil Abloh and Vitamin String Quartet.

“We are really honored to be part of the Dance (RED) Saves Lives Vol.III compilation. We got to learn about a lot of incredible artists through this process. This is one of our favorite remixes that we’ve done in a long time

“As a Co-Curator of this compilation, I was interested in reconnecting the Diaspora to Africa through dance music. African music was the first music I ever danced to so I never understood why there was such a disconnect.

I’m looking to the future of dance music and that is being in the club hearing everything from EDM to Afrobeats to Amapiano to Dancehall and everything in between -- a global buffet of dance and that’s what we tried to do with Volume III,” said Co-Curator and artist, Aluna.

“We are excited to launch this album in partnership with Mavin Records and the incredible roster of collaborators who have chosen to support the fight against COVID-19.

As our biggest African collaboration to date, we are grateful that each stream will help save lives,” said Jennifer Lotito, (RED) President and Chief Operating Officer.

Both the debut single and the DANCE (RED) SAVE LIVES Vol. III album artwork was created by the Brooklyn-based Nigerian performance and visual artist, Laolu Senbanjo. The album artwork can also be found on exclusive campaign merchandise that gives back to the Global Fund with every purchase. Laolu’s signature work, as also inspired from the album cover, has also been interpreted into a limited-edition facemask that is available worldwide!

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ICYMI NEWS FROM AROUND THE WEB

discerning dance music sitting in-between.

“Factory 93 represents the beginning of Insomniac.

Underground dance music will always be the roots of everything we do. Factory 93 is a very passionate part of the Insomniac portfolio worldwide, which makes this new record label even more exciting for us,” says Pasquale Rotella, Insomniac’s Founder and CEO. “With the addition of Factory 93 Records, our team will be able to carry over its vision from the live events side into a carefully curated catalog we can’t wait for you to hear.”

nInsomniac Events, the world’s leading dance

music promoter and the visionaries behind EDC Las Vegas (Electric Daisy Carnival), Nocturnal Wonderland, Escape: Psycho Circus, and many more, is announcing the launch of Factory 93 Records, a new record label joining the Insomniac Music Group family, which will focus on unearthing the most exciting artists and sounds from within the underground space.

For the better part of the last decade, Factory 93 has cemented itself as a pillar for all things house and techno. The immersive underground experience has kept its ear glued to the ground via celebrated lineups highlighting established and emerging acts alike from all corners of the world, setting the bar increasingly higher for itself through world-class production and an eye-grabbing aesthetic.

Factory 93 Records is the next step in the evolution of the brand, assembling a platform for the culture to gather around the most exciting sounds spanning house, techno, tech house, disco and every shade of

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Initially getting off the ground as a warehouse series in 2016, the launch of Factory 93 was a full circle moment that took root in the heart of the industrial district of Downtown Los Angeles from whence the Insomniac saga first began. Before long, the brand started firing on all cylinders with the introduction of festival showcases (hosting stages at EDC Las Vegas, EDC Mexico, EDC Orlando, Escape, EDC Japan), largescale open-air event at unique venues, sold-out club nights (Exchange LA, Academy Hollywood and Club Space Miami), and becoming the masterminds behind the lauded Secret Project Festival.

Having championed a head-turning list of talent from the likes of Carl Cox, Charlotte de Witte, Adam Beyer, Nicole Moudaber, Amelie Lens, Boris Brejcha, Peggy Gou, The Martinez Brothers, Joseph Capriati, Richie Hawtin, Loco Dice and many more, Factory has developed into an all-around tastemaker in its own right. Breaking into the record label space will allow the sounds from its international stages to reach underground heads extending out across the globe.

Details surrounding the Factory 93 Records roster and forthcoming release schedule will be revealed soon. In order to stay current on all label matters, make sure to keep an eye on the Factory 93 socials and check the official website https://www. thefactory93.com for further updates.

n Brighton Music Conference (BMC), the UK’s

foremost electronic music and networking event is excited to be back for 2021 for it’s eighth edition.

The Label Lounge A&R Sessions also returns, partnering with the Association of Independent Music. Full program to be announced soon.

The award-winning event will be returning to the British Airways i360 on Brighton’s beachfront from 22nd to 24th September bringing the electronic music industry together again to inspire, collaborate and network.

Brighton Music Conference thanks everyone for their continued support, especially the i360, sponsors and partners. Save the date for BMC21 - 22/23/24 September with more info on the event program and festival updates to follow.

The beachfront complex will host four theatres featuring in-depth discussions and debates on the biggest issues facing the electronic and wider music industry such as ‘the new normal’, diversity, mental health, streaming, the environment and current music and business trends.

All tickets from 2020 will be valid for the rescheduled September dates.

For more information visit https://www.brightonmusicconference.co.uk

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UN REPEAT NEW RELEASE//PREVIEWS

Kryder rode the bleeding edge into 2021, fusing VR, avatars, motion-capture and CGI to take us on a monthly trip into his ‘dance-anywhere’ Metaverse. Alongside digital concept house Conduit XR, he flipped the script on lockdown, brought the show to the audience and delivered a reality-rivalling experience.

As it starts its second season (and in step with the release of his single-latest “Pleasure Or Pain”), the English DJ/producer levels up again, adding a new dimension to the Metaverse. Mirroring the shows’ punchy “no fillers” festival ethic, today Kryder presents Volume 1 of his “Metaverse” mixcomp.

Each Metaverse is defined not by a genre, but by Kryder’s criteria, and amongst its most vital is sonic exclusivity.

Every offering - be it show or mixcomp - is comprised of music solely available to Kryder, who draws it from his Sosumi, Cartel & Kryteria label-wellspring. Through this new audio font (featuring the likes of Eddie Thoneick, Leykenda, Jora Ft. Reptile Room, Crusy, Lohrasp and Clubwire), Kryder once again bucks classification. Skating in, out and through galvanised house & progressive thrust, its music regularly backflips into tech, whilst flirting furiously with trance and a half-dozen other sub-styles.

In addition to “Pleasure Or Pain,” the album also brings first contact with two more Kryder creations, as “You & I”- his pumping DEADLINE collab tag-team with the more broodsome, but no less floor-centric “Crashing Down”(w/Asymptone). If Kryder’s music does have one defining feature, its hookiness, and “Metaverse Volume 1” is all about that, bringing brain-dilating catchiness end-to-end. One listen and you can kiss the rest of your musical week goodbye, “Volume 1” of Kryder Presents Metaverse is available now (blackhole.complete.me/ metaverse)!

The virtual experience uses full body motion-capture technology to capture Kryder ‘s DJ performance and then superimpose it onto an avatar in a virtual world. Using Hollywood-level film industry technology and AAA video game development tools, the Metaverse experience is tied together via live-streaming streaming to VR/AR and consoles. In a saturated market of live-streams, the Kryteria metaverse is establishing brandnew music, giving producers a chance to get their fresh tracks heard for the first time across a truly creative platform. Experience it at kryteriametaverse.com.

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Gardens of God’s 10-track debut “Soundtrack for the End” is a melodic, life-affirming journal of the Lithuanian DJ/producer’s spiritual rebirth into fresh creativity – honest, contemplative, yet with all the technical skill and cinematic sensibility you would expect from a classically-trained musician with a successful history writing film soundtracks.

With well received remixes and EPs on Maceo Plex’s Ellum imprint, the artist (aka Mindaugas Lapinskis) has been rising fast on the electronic scene, with solid support from names such as Adam Beyer, Sam Paganini, Stephan Bodzin, Adriatique, B.Traits and Pete Tong. He founded his own label SODAI so he could express himself with no compromises.

The LP takes you from uplifting piano and slow drum meditations like “All About NOW” ft APARDE’s blissful vocals and BIRDS, with its dripping water and cool lush ferns, to cinematic cuts peppered with off-the-wall elements and a jazzy vibe in Point of “No Return” and “River.”

Several tracks are vocal-centred: ‘Stills’ is more of a song than a track, with VAARWELL’s warm vocals and a choral backing, while “Shade of Indecision” showcases Myriah Turner speaking poetic lyrics. Fans will welcome reworks of his double A side “RIVER’/’GHOST,” Sodai’s debut release, as the label’s promising beginnings come to fruition.

The artist states: “At one point I felt lost, the world spinning so fast I couldn’t catch it. So, I made a soundtrack for the movie I live in. The album was started and never finished many times from fear of being misunderstood, but global and personal crises free me from doubt. Now here I am with all my melodies waiting to be heard.”

‘Soundtrack for the End’ is available now on SODAI. Get it on Vinyl: https://bit.ly/35J6lbR Digital: https://bit.ly/3rpkzHk

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Industry stalwart Laidback Luke makes a sensational return to his techno roots as he unveils his brandnew Dark Chanell alias. Marking his debut, the esteemed producer has delivered a stunning 4-track EP “No.1,” out now via his own Mixmash Records imprint.

Packing a punch from the opening note, “No.1” is a striking offering that highlights Luke’s phenomenal production skills. The high-energy EP opens up with hard-hitting “Octagon” - a track fueled by a bouncing bassline and stomping synths that make it the perfect peak-time hit. Next up, “PURPUR,” sees Luke deliver a slick electro infused techno piece. driving the production forward with staccato synths, fragmented kicks and an arresting melody, the chaotic breakdown lends to the abstract anthem. Delving deeper “Traitor” sees Luke embrace the darker side to the genre, delivering a sublime brooding techno soundscape. Closing out the EP, Luke picks up momentum with”Trommel” - weaving in squelchy synths, driving beats and percussive elements for a hypnotic sonic offering that channels those dancefloor vibrations.

One of the most influential producers in the electronic music scene, Luke van Scheppingen - best known by his stage name Laidback Luke - has donned a variety of hats throughout his illustrious career, mastering every genre from big room mainstage hits, acid house and electro to pure techno. The early days of his career saw Luke count Adam Beyer, Marco Carola and UMEK as his contemporaries, regularly billing on the same lineups as the techno giants. Garnering support from the likes of Marco Bailey and Joachim Garraud, Marco and Joachim were instrumental in getting him to play major international events I Love Techno and Technoparade respectively. Earning his stripes in the techno community, Luke was chosen as a resident for the inimitable Awakenings parties, as well as gracing the roster of Billy Nasty’s Theremin Agency.

His self-professed first love, Luke has spent the last couple of years revisiting his passion for techno both on the stage and in the studio. Receiving a rave review from industry heavyweight Resident Advisor for one of his first ever ‘Strictly Techno’ gigs in New York back in 2016, Luke went on to release two techno EPs under the name of ‘BOOM!’ which garnered support from the likes of Ryan Elliot, Gerd Jansen, Ricardo Villalobos and Zip. Fast forward to 2021 and the prodigal producer is set to further cement his techno credentials with the birth of his Dark Chanell project.

Stream it here.

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Arriving May 2021 on Above & Beyond’s iconic Anjunabeats imprint, ‘Impulse’ is ilan Bluestone’s most personal outing to date.

At the forefront of progressive and trance for almost a decade, Ilan creates high-energy trance with heart and soul. From barnstorming festival favorites “43,” “Spheres” and “Let Me Know,” to modern updates of genre classics like System F’s “Out Of The Blue,” Armin van Buuren’s “In And Out Of Love” and OceanLab’s “On A Good Day” and “Satellite,” his emotional, song-drive approach to dance music has earned him eleven genre chart #1’s on Beatport and a legion of fans around the world.

His debut artist album, 2018’s “Scars,” emphatically showcased the Bluestone sound. Broadening his repertoire with elements of dubstep, chillout, and funk, ‘Scars’ cemented Ilan’s place as a headline Anjunabeats artist, with DJ support from Tiesto, Ferry Corsten, and Oliver Heldens.

The album has hit over 30 million streams. His tireless work ethic has been rewarded with the opportunity to perform at marquee festivals and venues: Electric Daisy Carnival, Creamfields, Tomorrowland, The Hollywood Palladium, Brooklyn Mirage, Madison Square Garden. Tracks from ‘Impulse’ were tested at Above & Beyond’s Group Therapy 350 show in Prague, 2019, and streamed to hundreds of thousands of fans around the world.

Songwriting takes center stage on “Impulse”- love found and lost attachment and disengagement. “Stranger To Your Love” showcases this emphatically, reuniting ilan with Ellen Smith. Frequently supported by BBC Introducing through her band Shadowlark, Ellen featured on “Scars” album favorite “Rival” and provides two contributions to “Impulse.”

ilan Bluestone’s ‘Impulse’ arrives on Anjunabeats on May 7, 2021. Gatefold vinyl and downloads are available to pre-order now through the Anjuna Music Store and iTunes. The album includes the singles “Hold On” (feat.

Alex Clare and Maor Levi), “Rule The World” (feat. Jan Burton), and “Paid For Love” (feat. Gid Sidgwick).

Get it here.

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Nearly a decade into their impressive careers, Dutch duo Vicetone have released their highly-anticipated debut album, “Legacy” on Monstercat. The project spans ten addictive tracks, each with their own distinct flavor from Vicetone’s profound musical palette. From the latest upbeat anthem, “No Rest,” to the progressive pop-tinged record, “Somebody Like You (ft. Lena Leon)”, ‘Legacy’ is the love letter to dance music that’s had us yearning to feel its energy in a festival crowd again. Inspired by the monumental impact their hero Avicii made on the music community, the duo sought to create a timeless body of work that would leave a nostalgic mark beyond their years.

Vicetone share, “We are beyond excited to finally release our passion project, something we’ve worked on for years.

‘Legacy’ is such a special monumental milestone in our career and we are so proud of what we created. We feel that this album has a song on there for everyone - old fans and new, and we cannot wait to see the response from our fans.”

With six never-before-heard songs, the album introduces “Nothing But Love For You (feat. Lena Leon),” a complex layering of violin notes and horns that echo between Leon’s powerful lyrics. “Elevate” kicks in with an instantly-recognizable Avicii-like intro, backed by strong piano chords that build up to an infectious melodic hook. Similarly, “Outta My Mind (feat. Allison Kaplan)” has undeniable main stage vibes, while “Ghost Of My Past (feat. Emily Falvey)” serves as the album’s melancholic ballad to get you in your feels. ‘Legacy’s final track, “Nostalgia (feat. Moore)” is the ultimate late-night jam, primed for club rotation this summer.

Vicetone’s production prowess and instrumentation bleeds through the LP in an homage to their lauded skills across the studio space. Between the virality of massive tracks like “Nevada,” and their acclaimed live performances on the global stage, the Dutch producers have cemented their unrivaled legacy for generations of dance music to come.

“Legacy” is available now, stream it here.

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UN REPEAT NEW RELEASE//PREVIEWS

Chris Gekä is an agitator and activist of the French and international electronic scene with releases on some of the most famous imprints including Kevin Saunderson’s KMS Records, Nervous Records, Marshall Jefferson’s Freakin909 Records, and Robbie Rivera’s Juicy Music. Many of his tracks have shot to the top of many international charts and onto many compilations such as Pacha Ibiza, Amnesia Ibiza, Space Ibiza, WMC Miami and ADE Amsterdam. Roger Sanchez, who invited him to mix his radio show “Release Yourself,” and has since received the support of international DJs such as Erick Morillo, Stefano Noferini, Wally Lopez, Julian Jeweil, Hollen, The Yellowheads, and Enrico Sangiuliano among others. Seasoned and intuitive, he has maintained a constant production and release flow with remixes for Eddie Amador, Stefano Noferini, Ultra Naté, Lenny Fontana and Crystal Waters forging his solid industry reputation, and making his tracks and remixes a regular Beatport and Traxsource Top 100 charter. He mixed the double compilation CD “IBIZA TECH HOUSE VOL.2” for the famous German imprint ZYX Music, “REVOLUTION IBIZA UNDERGROUND,” and the compilation CD “IBIZA WORLD CLUB TOUR” featuring 13 of his favorite Deep House, House, Tech House and Techno tracks. Known for his energetic, grooving and ecstatic mixes, cut for the dancefloors, his music oscillates between Tech House and Techno and has propelled him to mix in the biggest clubs around the world.

Chris takes his first steps on Davotab. He dropped a bomb called “WOMAN,” a driving groovy techno built with thundering and thumping kicks, deep bass lines and stirring, sensuous female vocals. Hang on well before taking in full face the remix of Korean Bagagee Viphex13 which delivers an overpowering techno, create a sure-fire techno track beginning with the immediately recognizable droning bass line, adding his own touch to bring a new and interesting dimension to the track. Berlin’s Concrete Panther, this up-and-coming producer, delivers an alternative, euphoric build and drop that propels the track to its peak, solid kickdrum, swirling vocal loops and percussive synth hook. Cooked up with a more melodic vibe, Australian duo Summit DJs delivers a remix courtesy of techno, keeping all of the originals energy, with added depth for those who like things a touch deeper Each remixers add a unique twist that breathes a new lease of life into the tracks, all of them are real techno bangers!

“WOMAN” is available now. Stream it here.

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Beatselector Magazine | April/May 2021 | 33

BUZZ WORTHY ARTIST PROFILES

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LILLY PALMER !"

M

usic is freedom... freedom to express process and transform your emotions while creating a bond with the audience. For Lilly there’s no better way to initiate this bond, than with sending her

audience on a musical journey with her DJ sets. It’s as simple as that, electronic music just has been her passion ever since. Originally based in Zurich where Lilly spent a lot of time with the great and flourishing underground scene, her devotion for music got stronger and stronger which finally led her to the decision to fully dive into the realm of the underground in 2015!

With powerful, impulsive tech and melancholic deep sounds, intriguing melodies and electrifying basslines, Lilly creates a unique and energetic vibe sending her audience straight to outta space on a trip where return tickets are not needed anymore. The massive feedback on her sets and the way she resonates with the audience is causing a crazy demand for this one of a kind and unique artist. Today she is living near Amsterdam and experiences her dream becoming reality. As an international artist she is a regular guest in countries like the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Israel, Lebanon, Croatia, Switzerland, Belgium, UK, Spain/Ibiza and India. As authenticity and focus are two of her most appreciated attributes it‘s needless to say, that she’s full force ahead working in the studio to create her own sounds. There would be no real journey with Lilly, if she didn’t present her emotions with her own music and her first releases are already proving that she Is again on the right way to the top!

—E.D. Beatselector Magazine | April/May 2021 | 35

BUZZ WORTHY

AM.I!

ARTIST PROFILES

A

M.I stands for unapologetically losing yourself in that moment where music explodes into an array of color and feel. Whilst writing and composing her own typical melodic sound, AM.I enters a world that is entirely her own. And by slowly conquering the Belgian nightlife and beyond, she allows everybody who’s looking for a magical night to enter said world. Starting in 2016, she started producing original tracks with a sharp and dark edge that reintroduces melodic techno music in a whole new, fresh and unexpected manner.

Follow AM.I through this vibing, humming and enticing rabbit hole and discover how her unique voice subtly references to her biggest influences from the soundtrack music of Hans Zimmer to Linkin Park. Prepare for an immersive experience that will introduce you to darkness as well as light, closely interwoven with each other - testing limits and boundaries in a vivacious ocean of rhythm. AM.I started out with a classical music education, but she switched to electronic production at fourteen. Since 2016 she started listing to Deep House and Techno music, where she found herself a home. Since then, she’s driven to bring her energetic melodic techno music to the world. Making people dancing as much as possible! With her melodic feel, she tries to bring a new breeze into the Techno scene.

From 2018 she has grown her discography list of EPs and singles to 9 recordings and releases for Naturall Productions (4), Natura Viva Black (1), Coincidence Records (1), Ballroom Records Black (1), and most recently in 2021 with Fugitive Bliss EP on Set About and the single Dark Glass on Shodan Records.

—E.D.

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BUZZ WORTHY ARTIST PROFILES

JOSEPH EDMUND !"

J

oseph Edmund is a House and Techno DJ/Producer from the city of Manchester.

He has been hailed as one to watch by two major players in the circuit, Solardo

and Mark Jenykns as well as the likes of Patrick Topping, Nathan Barato, Jey Kurmis Latmun, Detlef and many more. Joseph started Djing at the age of 19 and has played at some of Manchester’s top venues including Gorilla and Sankey’s where he often stole the show with his passionate and very unique sets. At the young age of 25, 2021 is set to be the breakthrough year. Since originally making waves in 2019 with his first release on the iconic label Hot Creations, Joseph went on to secure his first releases number 1 on Beatport with the massive release “Lose your Body” on Whippin’ in early 2020. This fine form is destined continue with releases already set with a new Hot Creations release (“Baewatch”-April 30,) and Kaluki before the Summer 2021 and with an arsenal of unreleased tracks being sent out to key labels for the remainder of 2021, this young man is set to make an impact on dancefloors around the world. This fact is compounded by the fact that he is now seasoned regularly in the set lists from some of the biggest and respected DJs in the industry such as Jamie Jones, The Martinez Brothers, Marco Carola and many more. Joseph’s unique sound makes him unquestionably one to watch in the coming years ahead with confirmed shows in 2021 at We ARE FSTVL (Paradise Stage), BPM Festival, Kaluki Summer Sound System, The Warehouse Project and many more.

—E.D. Beatselector Magazine | April/May 2021 | 37

ON e th

RISE By Shon Murdock

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KASAN DA’ JULAH//PRODUCER What studios and cities are you mainly working out of lately?

KASAN DA’ JULAH: I currently have been working out of South Florida.

What do you think about producers and beatmakers being able to license their original beats to video game companies?

KASAN DA’ JULAH: It’s the next level...I see nothing wrong with it at all. Bang Out!!

What gear or software do you prefer in the studio when banging out hits?

KASAN DA’ JULAH: I’m Alkai and Drum Lords all day.

My current weapon of choice is the MPC Studio Black.

It’s lightweight and mad versatile.

Who would be your dream collaboration?

KASAN DA’ JULAH: Black Thought on the Hip Hop tip, and Lila Ike on the dancehall.

Who were your musical influences?

KASAN DA’ JULAH: Mainly Jamaican Soundsystem culture with artist like Super Cat, Nicodemus, Early B..and also Tippa Irie from Saxon Posse out of U.K. these are the Fathers of modern day Hip Hop. Then of course KRS 1 , Slick Rick, and Rakim....and most definitely WUTANG!!!

Do you think mixtapes hurt or help the culture?

KASAN DA’ JULAH: Mix tapes help because it’s spreads your music underground and makes your sound heard before you get signed.It helps generate a buzz for both artist and producer.

Do you have any new projects that you would like to tell us about?

KASAN DA’ JULAH: I’m currently working on A project entitled: Kasan Da Julah Presents: For The People Vol.1 it’s a collection of artists featured from all over the globe. Everyone spitting in their native language to beats that i have produced. Definitely gonna be great for the culture!

Can you give us your social media handles where can we find your Beats?

KASAN DA’ JULAH: IG: Kasandajulah, Facebook: Kasan Da Julah.

What music genre do you prefer to produce?

KASAN DA’ JULAH: I love Golden era Boombap and Boombap fused with Golden era Reggae. That’s my lane. It’s love worldwide! i spent 2 years in Switzerland and London and was pleased to learn that the rest of the world also shares my love for Golden Era Boombap sound. Don’t get it twisted B-Boys and True School. Hip Hop is alive well and thriving. ya’ll see Break Dancing will be in the next World Olympics don’t you? So what does that tell you?! HIP HOP LIVES!!!

Beatselector Magazine | April/May 2021 | 39

ON the

RISE

TONEBEATZ//BEATMAKER What cities and studios do you work out of mostly?

What are your social media handles where can we find your Beats?

TONEBEATZ: I mainly work from home! If I do go to a studio, it will be XRO Studios.

TONEBEATZ: Instagram: @ToneBeatz Twitter: @ToneBeatz

What is your most successful work up-to-date?

Do you think the fashion industry and the sneaker culture is influenced by the music industry? Can you explain?

TONEBEATZ: “Spoils Of Babylon” project I did with All Hail Y.T. and “If I Die Tonight” by Shon Murdock.

What is your favorite piece of gear or software in the lab for banging out hits?

TONEBEATZ: Right now I’m using “Sp 404” then finish the beat on my Mashine MK2. I also use Drum Lords. it’s really good when I need a quick drum loop or sounds to chop up.

Any new projects you would like to tell us about?

TONEBEATZ: I’m working on a project series....It’s going to be crazy.

Who were your musical influences growing up?

TONEBEATZ: Pete Rock & Dj Premier.

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TONEBEATZ: Yes!!!! Our music has changed the world In many ways and fashion Is one of the ways! From Eric B. & Rakim rocking the Dapper Dan outfits to Rocawear. Music and fashion go hand in hand.

Who would be your dream collaboration?

TONEBEATZ: I have a few: Guilty Simpson and Ransom are just a couple.

How important are a good pair of headphones when reviewing new music?

TONEBEATZ: I use two…cheap Wal-Mart headphones while making the beats and when it’s time to review and mix, I use Samson’s SR850.

Beatselector Magazine | February 2021 | 39

Audio Jack From Scratch to Success

By Catherine Strickland

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UK-duo Audiojack (James Rial & Richard Burkinshaw) have remained at the forefront of electronic music for over a decade. First rising to prominence on “20:20 Vision” in the mid-2000s, the pair have continually developed during their career, launching their own label Gruuv in 2010 before debuting on Crosstown Rebels in 2016 with “Turya.” This natural evolution helped drive their new album’s early formation in 2017, whilst the events of last year inspired the “Isolation Tapes” series, a selection of releases that delved into the feelings created by lockdown and seclusion.

Providing an escape from the anxiety and uncertainty of these environments, the likes of Eli & Fur, Polarbear and Lady Vale appeared on the series as vocalists, bringing together a community of artists and listeners alike. Fast forwarding to 2021, Audiojack is getting ready for the release of their latest full length album, “Surface Tension” on Crosstown Rebels (available April 30, 2021) and we get the opportunity to share with you their incredible story.

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Tell us the backstory of your friendship. When did you meet up and how did that develop into the formation of Audiojack?

AJ: “We met in Ibiza in 2002, where we’d both gone for the summer with a box of vinyl records and dreams of making a name for ourselves as DJs. Whilst we played a few gigs that summer and had an amazing time, the most important thing that happened as far as our music career goes was meeting each other.

When the summer ended we went back to the north

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of England, and moved into a shared house in the city of Wakefield. We had no money, no furniture, and ate dinner off a cardboard box on the floor. By day we worked to pay the rent, and at night we had a DJ residency playing every night at a dance music bar in the city. Despite not having a pot to piss in we were very happy, living life in the moment and enjoying the freedoms of our early 20s, although it wasn’t long before we felt the pull towards the big city of Leeds, so we pooled everything we’d got and managed to convince a lettings company that we could afford an awesome two bedroom apartment right on the edge of the

city. We definitely couldn’t afford it, but we used this as motivation, making a promise to ourselves and each other that we had to step up our game now, and make this new life an affordable reality.

We immersed ourselves in the Leeds nightlife scene, partying many nights a week, and trying our best to get booked to DJ somewhere, anywhere, but we quickly came to realize that two small-town nobodies were ten to the dozen here, and if we were going to stand a chance of getting booked to DJ we had to be able to offer more than just sound DJ skills, so we had

to decide whether to take DJing more seriously as a possible career, or leave it as a hobby. We decided to go for it. We figured out there seemed to be three ways to get booked to DJ – make music, run a record label or organise your own party. After bills and booze we hardly even had money for food, so setting up a label or organizing a party would be impossible. We’d have to learn how to make music. So we bought an old computer for £50, got a cracked copy of some basic music production software and spent every waking moment that we weren’t working locked in the zone. The computer was awful. It glitched so badly

Beatselector Magazine | April/May 2021 | 47

it was hard to hear what we were making, and we didn’t have studio monitors, but we did the best with what we’d got, then finally, after about a year we had a demo ready.

We took our demo into a Leeds record shop and sheepishly asked the chap behind the counter (Jay Kilka) if he’d give it a listen. We ambled around the shop, pretending to read vinyl sleeves while he listened, out loud. He played through the first 4 or 5 records, but it was when he got to the sixth and final track on the CD that his interest seemed to increase.

We almost didn’t include it, it was the weird ‘we also made this’ track. He said his mate Matt Tolfrey who DJs at Fabric was setting up a record label and might be interested and asked if he could pass it onto him.

We said yes, and a few months later we had our first release. That release was Robot on Leftroom records, which went on to be a big record in the summer of 2006, played by DJs like Sven Vath, DJ Hell, Lee Burridge, Sasha and Luciano, who played it twice in a row in DC10 while we were there on holiday; a moment that will always remain special to us. Soon after that Ralph Lawson and ‘2020 Vision’ came calling, and the rest, as they say, is history…”

Did you have a technical background/formal education in making electronic music or music in general?

AJ: “Jamie has a very mathematical mind, which is very helpful, and we both learned instruments when we were young, but with regards to electronic music production we mostly we just figured out what to do as we went along through thousands of hours of trial and error.”

Growing up, what artists were you both passionate about and did their music inspire you to become professional musicians?

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AJ: “We’ve both been avid music fans since we were kids, and our musical tastes encompass pretty much every music vibe imaginable. The DJ mindset is quite ingrained and we tend to think more in the way of how it enhances the mood and atmosphere of a situation than in genres or specific artists. If I’m cooking I’m really into listening to the music of where the food comes from. This has been brilliant during lockdown, and has allowed me to escape in daydream to distant places, engulfed by the sounds and smells of cities like Mumbai, Rio de Janeiro, Paris or Rome. Weekend mornings have their own special soundtrack with lots of folk, blues, jazz and ambient vibes. As for the music of our youth, our tastes ranged from happy hardcore to heavy metal. I’m not sure those artists have inspired us to follow this path specifically, but music has always been there, day and night, and as soon as we found DJing in the mid-90s we knew this culture would be an important part of our lives.”

Being in the industry for many years now, what would you say is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned as performers, producers and businessmen?

AJ: “Be true to yourself. Don’t compromise your music or make decisions to suit other people’s opinions, for money or fame. Find your true path and follow it authentically, it’s worth a thousand ego trips. Trying to get ahead by copying trends means you’ll always be behind the curve, an echo of something that was once good. Music made from the egoic mind with fame and fortune goals might bring success in the short term, but over the course of many years the façade will evaporate. Be an innovator. It’s better to have 100 fans who dig what you really do, than 10000 who think you’re someone that you’re not.”

Describe your best and worst gigs.

AJ: “Best gig is tough! Our Back to Basics debut in Leeds and playing the terrace at Space and DC10 in Ibiza will always be very meaningful to us though, as they were the gigs that inspired us to go on this journey in the first place.

Worst gig is easier. When our last album ‘Radio’ was released back in 2009 we got booked to play in a small German city that shall remain nameless. As soon as we walked in the club we knew something had gone terribly wrong. The warm up DJ was playing EDM and pop bootlegs, then suddenly the manager appeared and said ‘guys, where are your suits?’ For the album we’d had a press shoot where we dressed in the style of 1950s radio presenters, and they obviously thought this was our act and that we’d perform wearing them. We flicked through our CD wallet, trying to find the most commercially appropriate music we had, but before the first track had got even half way through the club manager came over and asked if we could play anything with more vocals, then about 20 minutes later he asked if we could come off and let the resident go back on for a while.

We didn’t get asked to go back on, and instead were shooed towards an office where two stern looking mobster bosses were sat counting money, while we sheepishly had to ask to be paid.”

How has the last year changed your lives personally, professionally, and creatively? Did you discover any new self-realizations, hobbies, or passions?

AJ: “It’s been a rollercoaster, hasn’t it? Like most people we’ve had to make changes, and adapt to new routines. We both have young children at home, with self-employed partners, so juggling our commitments, keeping everyone fed, clean and happy is a job in itself.

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I’m excited to DJ and see the world again, but also full of trepidation. One year on I’ve got used to a new way of life; I go to bed early, eat healthily, exercise and meditate daily and have quit pretty much all the vices I picked up at weekends and on the road over the last 20 years. I don’t know how touring is going to work with that, or whether I can maintain resilience in the face of temptation. I’d happily play gigs until forever if only we had a teleporter, but the travelling, the sleepless nights, the new rules as a result of the pandemic, they all come at a cost to your mental and physical wellbeing. Being a duo is already difficult financially, and we don’t know whether the reward will be enough to make it work, but I hope that we soon get the chance to find out.”

What is the overall message your new album “Surface Tension” conveys and why is it important?

AJ: “Humans are messed up right now with our addictions to information and technology. Our finite attention spans are being sucked dry through the multiple electronic devices we use on a daily basis and most of the information we’re getting is useless and corrosive to our mental well being.

We’re trying to listen to music whilst watching a funny video, having a text conversation and glancing at someone walking past on the train and wondering what they might look like naked.

On the opposite end of the scale you have something like meditation which whilst not for everyone is commonly accepted to be good for your mental wellbeing. You’re shutting off all the crap that’s constantly bombarding your senses and this allows your mental energy to be entirely focused within, and your imagination opens like a flower and can take you to wonderful places.

Maybe sitting with your eyes closed in silence is a

step too far for some but if you think about reading a book, your attention is focused on the words on the page and your brain translates this to a story in your mind where you paint a picture of how it looks and feels as if it were real life.

With ‘Surface Tension’ we wanted to create an audio cinematic experience that is best enjoyed without any other senses distracted. Lay down with a pair of headphones on and close your eyes, then let your imagination paint the picture. It starts off as if you’re laid on a beach with the sounds of the waves lapping against the shore, birds in the trees and people chattering in the distance. Then an alarm sounds, the sounds of the island paradise fade and you’re left in a pod where you’ve been on a neuro vacation; a simulated holiday. The reality is that you live underground in a state oppressed society, and are prohibited from going to the surface because the air is no longer safe to breath.

The album tells the story of how our protagonist escapes this situation and breaks free from the shackles created by the rules and propaganda. We hope people can take an hour out of their busy lives to zone out and consume the album without distraction, as the story itself is a metaphor for freeing yourself from the addiction to technology to create some space for mental well being.”

What makes the new album different from other Audiojack releases?

AJ: “From a musical standpoint it’s very diverse compared to our usual dance floor focused material; there’s hip hop, ambient, breaks, as well as some more typical four/four music as well. In terms of the album as a whole, the cinematic presentation of it meant we have included dialogue from voice actors, film sound effects, field recordings from around the world and much more to give it that immersive experience.”

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“

BE TRUE TO YOURSELF. DON’T COMPROMISE YOUR MUSIC OR MAKE DECISIONS TO SUIT OTHER PEOPLE’S OPINIONS, FOR MONEY OR FAME. FIND YOUR TRUE PATH AND FOLLOW IT AUTHENTICALLY, IT’S WORTH A THOUSAND EGO TRIPS. TRYING TO GET AHEAD BY COPYING TRENDS MEANS YOU’LL ALWAYS BE BEHIND THE CURVE, AN ECHO OF SOMETHING THAT WAS ONCE GOOD. MUSIC MADE FROM THE EGOIC MIND WITH FAME AND FORTUNE GOALS MIGHT BRING SUCCESS IN THE SHORT TERM, BE AN INNOVATOR. IT’S BETTER TO HAVE 100 FANS WHO DIG WHAT YOU REALLY DO, THAN 10000 WHO THINK YOU’RE SOMEONE THAT YOU’RE NOT.” Beatselector Magazine | April/May 2021 | 51

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On Top of the World Alok Achkar Peres Petrillo is an individual with very strong and deep musical rootsand was raised in a family where his parents (Swarup and Ekanta) and his twin brother (Bhaskar) are artists in the electronic music scene. His universe has revolved around music since he was 10 years old and has become one of the most prominent artists on the Brazilian scene, with honors, awards and milestones such as being the first Brazilian to reach more than 1 billion plays on Spotify; landing the 5th best DJ spot in the world by the British magazine DJ Mag in 2020; he is the only Brazilian to join Billboard’s unprecedented list of the 100 best DJs globally, and named by Forbes Brasil as one of the most influential people under the age of 30 in the country. Additionally, Alok is a philanthropist working with Fraternidade Sem Fronteiras, a dedicated family man and runs the wildly successful label CONTROVERSIA Records. Luckily, we are priviledged to share with you an indepth Q&A with the man, who is without a doubt, sitting on top of the world.

By JOSEPH ARTHUR

Photography courtesy of Gil Inouie Beatselector Magazine | April/May 2021 | 53

Recognized as Brazil’s Best DJ, a number 5 ranking on DJ Mag’s 2020 Top 100 DJs list, a Forbes Magazine mention as one of Brazil’s most influential young artists, and millions upon millions of followers all over the world are just a few accolades and successes you’ve received over the last few years. How did you get there? oALOK: “For me, it’s been a long process of hard work and believing in the music I make. A while back, I pivoted to a more commercial side of dance music, which I was worried would face some backlash, but luckily, my fans and peers have been supportive. For me, if you don’t take a risk, you don’t grow as an artist, and to be recognized as a leading artist that can represent my country across the world is an amazing feeling. I cherish that I can do what I love for a living and to be able to have the success I have, as well as champion new artists through my CONTROVERSIA label, is something I will always be proud of.”

Describe the feelings you had during your performance at Rock in Rio 2020, São Paulo Carnival, as well as performing in front 1 million people at the Salvador Carnival. I can only imagine that it must have been an awesome feeling, but let’s hear it in your own words. oALOK: “It totally was! I’m a proud Brazilian through and through, so to be able to play to such a large audience was an honor. Carnival is in our spirit and our blood as South Americans, bringing party-goers that fun and vitality with my music is something I’ll never forget, I’m so excited for when we can all dance together again.”

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oALOK: “Again, this is something else that, as you say, is also in my family history and my blood. I think as a creative, it’s something I’ve always wanted to persue, so to understand the industry from an early age certainly helped but I still very much had to carve my own path, my own identity. I decided to persue this as a career once I learned my skills and progressed how I saw electronic music, as something that I could cultivate into my own sound and style, for me, that was when I really accelerated.”

Explain what Instituto Alok is about and what your goals are as a philanthropist. oALOK: “For me, family is so important.

To have my amazing wife and two children at my side is a dream and then in turn, to be able to give back to charities across Africa and Brazil with my work for Fraternidade Sem Fronteiras is a great privilege.”

On a personal note, how is family life treating you? oALOK: “Amazingly. At the moment, the COVID situation is pretty severe in Brazil, but I realize how privileged I am to be able to quarantine safely with my wife and two children by my side, I hope we can come out of this as a stronger, safer nation.”

Beatselector Magazine | April/May 2021 | 55

Photography courtesy of Gabriel Wickbold

Seeing that your family is deeply rooted in electronic music, how and when did you decide to also become a professional musician with a focus on electronic music.

“ Being able to play shows for my fans to travel and tour with my music is su performing is somethin “

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Photography courtesy of Filipa Brito

s... There is no feeling like it, being able uch a joy and to be able to get back to ng I cannot wait for.” —ALOK Beatselector Magazine | April/May 2021 | 57

SIDEBAR

LABEL

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MPV CONTROVERSIA Records is two years in to its existence. 2021 has kicked off with a very active release schedule which appears to be a key strategy for growing the label’s artist roster.

How is this advantageous in such a competitive field? oALOK: “Thank you! For us, it’s releasing music that we believe in, from established artists to championing new talent, we fully have faith in the music we release and that seems to resonate with our fans, too.”

How is CONTROVERSIA Records different from other artist run labels and how are those differences contributing the overall success of your label? oALOK: “We are a family at the heart of it. We keep a close-knit team and really believe in what we release, and the artists we invite to the label. We are lucky enough that artists really understand our ethos, aswell as us as a label understanding their vision, so I think that is the key to how we’ve managed CONTROVERSIA so far.”

What makes the compilation CONTROVERSIA by ALOK Volume 001 so special? What does the rest of 2021’s release schedule look like? oALOK: “I’m so pleased the compilation is now out in the world! For us, it’s medley of tracks that can give people a taster of us as a label, as well as a collection of releases for fans to return to. For 2021, we have a super busy schedule and a lot of new releases coming from artists we can’t wait to introduce to you, as well as some collaborations with myself. I hope you enjoy as much as we have planning for what is coming up!”

Photography courtesy of Gil Inouie Beatselector Magazine | April/May 2021 | 59

[LATEST] NEW RELEASES >>STREAM CONTROVERSIA VOL.1 BY ALOK TRACKLIST 01: 100 Degrees (feat. Séb Mont) DUBDOGZ, BHASKAR, CALMANI & GREY

02: Smoke Me

KVSH, CRÜPO, CONAN MAC

03: Echo YVES V

04: Going Under KOHEN & MALARKEY

05: Had to Tell You (feat. Leo) LANNÉ & HAWK

06: Honestly (feat. ANML KNGDM) WILL K

07: Walking

MURAT SALMAN & NICKOBELLA

08: Try Me

ROBERT FALCON, MAGNUS

09: On My Knees

MALIVE, DEE:VISION & JINADU

10: Empty Bottle SANTII & ALI BAKGOR

11: All I Wonder SPECT3R

12: I Don’t Care ZAFIR & STVNS

13: Sunday Morning DJs FROM MARS

14: Poison BHASKAR

15: Waiting

KOHEN & SALIM SAHAO

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From releasing heavy-hitters already in 2021, including label head ALOK’s “Rapture” alongside Daniel Blume (10.5M streams), and “Love Again” with VIZE (10M streams), CONTROVERSIA has constantly released the freshest sounds across a plethora of genres ever since it’s 2019 launch. Already standing tall as a label set to go stratospheric, CONTROVERSIA has released it’s first imprint compilation; “CONTROVERSIA by ALOK Vol. 001!”

Commencing proceeding with Dubdogz, Bhaskar, Calmani & Grey, taking things up to “100 degrees” thanks to a dramatic take on deep house merged with a progressive tinge, it merges perfectly into KVSH, CRÜPO & Conan Mac’s feel-good “Smoke Me,” that allows the sensual, invitational vocal to take a hold and take the listener higher. The perfect introduction is followed up with the aforementioned debut from Yves V spinning things darker, but yet hopeful in it’s message, before Kohen & Malarkey ensure there is no “Going Under,” firing with an electricity on all cylinders.

On “Had To Tell You,” LANNÉ & Hawk bring some stylistic, hyper-manipulated sounds that blast us into the sounds of the future, paving the way for Australian favorite Will K to produce an effervescent, joyful rush on “Honestly” that fluctuates between a radio-ready-level of catchiness, interspersed with electro tendencies and a stunning vocal from ANML KNGDM that worms its way into your psyche.

Across, 15 tracks, including further stand-outs from names including Robert Falcon, DJ’s From Mars and Bhaskar, “CONTROVERSIA by ALOK Vol. 001” proves both the perfect extended accompaniment representing the imprint for seasoned fans, as well as listeners that may be new to the label, make sure you get your hands on the label’s first collective omission, available now!

REDNOD INTO YOU NOW

TWIIG THOUGHT OF LOSING HER

DUBDOGZ, BHASKAR, CALMANI & GREY 100 DEGREES (WITH SÉB MONT)

>>STREAM

>>STREAM

>>STREAM

KVSH, CRÜPO, CONAN MAC SMOKE ME

MURAT SALMAN & NICKOBELLA WALKING

MALIVE, DEE:VISION, JINADU ON MY KNEES

>>STREAM

>>STREAM

>>STREAM

SPECT3R ALL I WONDER

LANNÉ & HAWK HAD TO TELL YOU (FEAT. LEO)

WILL K HONESTLY (FEAT. ANML KNGDM)

>>STREAM

>>STREAM

>>STREAM

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DJ YEMI FINDS HIS COUNTRY ROADS, TAKE ME HOME! DJ Yemi (Yemi Shonibare) hails from the beautiful “Mountain State” and home to the perinnial “Party School” West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV. Yemi is a self taught DJ with a diverse musical background in Pop, Hip-Hop, Go-Go, Country and rock-n-roll. Professionally, Yemi has held residencies in nightclubs all over West Virginia while making numerous guest appearances across the United States. He has shared the stage with artists such as Outkast, Travis Scott, MGK, Big Sean, Lil Dickey, Snoop Dogg and many more. Yemi graciously takes the time and shares his musical journey, why he calls West Virginia home and hypes his latest single “Johnny Cage.”

By Joseph Arthur

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Being born in Nigeria, tell us how you ended up landing in Morgantown, West Virginia of all places in the United States?

“College brought me to West Virginia! I love those country roads, so I stayed longer!”

What makes Morgantown and West Virginia special in your eyes?

“Morgantown is a special place because you can find a little bit America in one place. Most people in Morgantown come for college and are from different states, therefore you meet people from all over USA! West Virginia is special because of the people! The people make the state a great place to be.”

You’ve performed with some heavyweights in the Hip-hop arena including Outkast, Wiz Khalifa, Snoop Dogg, Mac Miller, and Big Sean among many others. How has those experiences influenced you in regards music making, as well as your entrepreneurial endeavors?

“Sharing the stage with ‘heavyweights’ makes you raise your game and level higher every time. Shows you always have a higher level to reach!”

Growing up, what artists were you listening to and how did their music inspire you to become professional DJ/ Producer?

“No one specifically really inspired me to be a DJ/Producer. Music has always been in my life with family and church, so it was only right to transition from Sports to music full time.”

Who would be your “dream” collaborator for a future release/project?

“Drake, lil Wayne or Neyo. Not in that order, but those are the top on the “dream list.”

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“SHARING THE STAGE WITH ‘HEAVYWEIGHTS’ MAKES YOU RAISE YOUR GAME AND LEVEL HIGHER EVERY TIME. SHOWS YOU ALWAYS HAVE A HIGHER LEVEL TO REACH!” —DJ YEMI

What’s the backstory behind your most recent single “Johnny Cage?”

Last summer I was working on an album and was looking for a song with a chant type vibe and hit up my artist Ghandiii. After studio sessions and long conversations, we collaborated on ‘Johnny Cage’.”

What is you “go to” track when spinning in a nightclub to fill a dance floor?

“That song always changes. With each event my approach is to pick the songs that impact the event in a positive way.”

After reading up and learning more about you, Gospel music appears to be a strong influence in your life. How so?

“Yeah, Gospel music is very influential. I only talk about it when asked but growing up my family

was very involved in church and with that impact transition with music. with most churches music is a very powerful form of worship.”

What do you have lined up for the Spring and Summer, gig wise?

“Nothing is lined up officially but looking to have a ‘YemiPalooza’ and a few club nights.”

Finally, when can fans expect your full album release and what will it contain?

“Album coming this summer! It will contain music from local artist and more. This album is to showcase great artist from West Virginia! Most local artist do not get national spotlight and I believe there’s a lot of great talent from West Virginia that the world needs to hear!”

MNP

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REVIEWS

ALBUMS

{

Indispensable      Essential     Good    Fair   Poor 

}

THE KENNETH BAGER EXPERIENCE FRAGMENTS FROM A DUB CADET MUSIC FOR DREAMS  Kenneth Bager started his musical career back in the mid 1980s as a DJ. In 1994, he released a compilation called “Music for Dreams” featuring, among others, Peter Gabriel and Michael Nyman.

Kenneth received his breakthrough with the release of his critically acclaimed debut album “Fragments From A Space Cadet” in 2006, for which he received the Danish Statens Kunstfond Award.

From 2010 onwards he released his work under the moniker “The Kenneth Bager Experience.”

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REVIEWS ALBUMS Back in 2006, The Kenneth Bager Experience debuted his eponymous “Fragments From A Space Cadet.” The album contained 15 choice tracks featuring vocalists and instrumentalists including Camilla Munck, Gisli, Julee Cruise, n*grandjean, Jazz fusion pioneer and violinist, Jean-Luc Ponty, The Hellerup Cool School Choir, Mames Babegenush, Cecilie, Frederikke, Jazzbox, Edberg and Thomas Troelsen.

He followed that debut up in 2010 with “Fragments From A Space Cadet 2” Since then, KBE (The Kenneth Bager Experience) has released two additional albums: 2014’s “Follow The Beat” and 2016’s “Premiere Classé” both on MFD. All of these full length albums get regular play and revisits and the reason why is really quite simple. They are fantastic, feel good releases with great hooks and vocals. From the very first time I heard these records, I realized how much of great composer and musician Kenneth Bager is and I have been huge fan ever since.

Upon learning of a new KBE album, “Fragments From A Dub Cadet” I could hardly contain myself and anxxiously awaited the official release date with great anticipation of hearing the latest from Kenneth and Co. “Fragments From A Dub Cadet” is simply a reimagination of the LPs “Fragments From A Space Cadet” versions 1 and 2, only this time with a Dub styling, which is expertly applied. And for added measure, Kenneth throws in a couple extra golden nuggets such as “Sunshine Stereo” and “I Love The Dub Life,” both of which a absolute gems.

My personal favorites include the aforementioned tracks as well as “The Sound of Swing” (two seperate versions), “Love Won’t Leave Me Alone” and “What’s

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My Name.” I’m certain that those of you who take the time to listen will form your own opinions and determine your own personal preferred tracks. Since the new album’s release, I’ve revisited the collection several times and continue to hear new magical inflections of these terrific versions.

The production values are pristine and showcase Kenneth’s ability to turn an already classic cut into an even better version, no matter what the style is, and this time, it’s dub gold.

On the date, Bager (re):enlists and features the talents of Audio Bear on “The First Picture,” Julee Cruise on “Les Fleurs,” Sofie Gråbøl on ”What’s My Name,” The Hellerup Cool School, Gisli, Volume Bossa and DJ Disse featured on “The Sound of Swing,” Idjut on “Love Won’t Leave Me Alone,” Ghoul Immanuel on “Biological Bread,” Thomas Troelsen on “Go Underground,” and Damon C. Scott and Tuccinelli on “Sunshine Stereo.”

Without a doubt, at least in this listeners mind and ears, Kenneth Bager is a “Tour de Force” when it comes to making melodic and hook driven songs that get stuck in your head and stay there.

So, in closing up this write up, “Fragments From A Dub Cadet” gets all five stars, and in my opinion is an Indispensable album to add to your personal collection. I emplore you to dive into this release, turn it up and replay frequently, and you, like I, will become instant fans. Until the next album from The Kenneth Bager Experience, I’ll be playing and replaying, turning it way up, and turning friends and music lovers on this fabulous, feel good golden gem of an album!

Thank you Kenneth and Co.!

—Joseph Arthur

REVIEWS ALBUMS

SASHA LUZoSCURA/V.A. Alkaane / !K7

 Sasha has signaled a new phase of his decade-spanning career with LUZoSCURA, an adventurous and essential compilation project that features newly-discovered emerging talent, as well as eminent artists and fresh material from Sasha himself. Evolved from the eponymous playlist, Sasha created the LUZoSCURA name a few years ago as a Spotify playlist, a stash of music sent to him which didn’t meet the pace of his club sets, nor suit his venerated label LNOE. “The playlist thrived during lockdown,” highlights Sasha. “For the first time in over 20 years I had no reference point for banging club music, so I gravitated towards the LUZoSCURA playlist. I threw more energy into curating it because the sound felt right for that time, and I quickly realised I wanted to make some of my own music with this theme.” Off the road and disconnected from the dance floor, he’d utilize the break from touring to evolve and adapt, while connecting with an international roster of artists who are similarly invigorated

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by sounds which traverse electronica, ambient, techno and breaks. The playlist grew, and last summer Sasha showcased the catalogue of sounds for the first time as a live stream, igniting the idea of a mixed compilation and a call out for fresh music was made. Sasha continues to comment: “The compilation process was an amazing experience in connecting with newer, budding artists I wouldn’t normally receive music from. From this new project, I want people to be ready for something beyond the 4 X 4 kick drum, something which goes in different directions. Mixing it was quite different to the standard progression that I’m used to when I DJ because the beauty of the LUZoSCURA sound is that it jumps between breakbeat to melodic to ambient, yet it still flows.” Sasha opens up with the buoyant intro of the breaks-influenced “Corner Shop,” the first of his three tracks on the compilation. MJ Cole is among the established artists to feature with blissed out track “Maestro,” while The Micronaut, a multiinstrumentalist whose Olyimpia (Summer Games) album was a favorite of Sasha’s through lockdown, offers an immersive trip in “Koelsa.” lau.ra, the lead singer of British influential electronic band Ultraísta - who also performed at Sasha’s milestone reFracted live show adds a touch of sensuous energy in “I’ll Wait.”

Demanding close listening is upcoming New York producer QRTR, who delivers with her bite of euphoria in “Forest Sprint.” British producer Jody Barr brings through a burst of energy with “Accidental Lovers” which features talented New York musician Felicia Douglass before we hear another breaks-loaded trip from Sasha in “HNDI.” Closing the odyssey with a stirring, expansive soundscape is synth duo Felsmann + Tiley. This compilation contains 21 essential tracks and will be released worldwide as a digital download, as well as a limited-edition deluxe purple marble and poster boxset and smoked marble vinyl on May 7, 2021.

—Joseph Arthur

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REVIEWS ALBUMS

ZSÜD REWIRING ZSÜD(SELF RELEASE)

 Zsüd is a producer, singer and songwriter.

She loves experimenting with cinematic and electronic elements, wandering not too far from pop genres. She studied classical piano and music theory as a kid and after receiving her Masters degree in engineering, she returned back to making music from the electronic angle. She studied music production and sound designand is now the co-leader of imPro, Budapest School of Music and Technology.

On March 12th, Zsüd self released her debut album featuring eleven original compositions.

Speaking to the album’s creation, Zsüd states “I wrote the first songs back in 2018. I used emotions of my own and also those I witnessed in my surroundings. Besides that, I wanted to give space to philosophical questions as well. I prefer switching up my songwriting workflow from time to time - some of these songs started on the piano, some came from sound design elements or even the lyrics.” ”REWIRING’s” collection of songs are

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like grabbed pieces of a diary, some are based on daily emotions, others contain abstract philosophical questions. The album moves on a wide rage of genres, orchestration and mood. The glue in this wide scale is change itself - reaching our deepest core and rewiring ourselves from that point. The main function of the album is documenting change, as the different stations can be very familiar to the listener. Right from the opening seconds of the album, you get a real sense of the mood that Zsüd attempts to set. It’s dark and moody, very moody and as the songs go by, the the moodiness goes into wild swings. The lyric writing and the compositions are extremely well thought out and showcases the care, diligence, and musicicanship, which is in one simple word, superb. Across the eleven tracks, the interwoven instrumentation goes from electonic based to acoustic or traditional based and a combination of both which keeps you entralled and amazed that this artist is making her debut. And there are a few surprises thrown in as well. Highlights of the album include “fuck, yourebackinmyhead” with its fabulous sudo rap in the mid-section. “2 a.m” which is a gorgeous jazz inflected track, featuring piano, swinging acoustic bass and some very fine brush work on the snare drum, interspersed with a touch trumpet, bluesy guitar licks and cool spoken word here and there. “REWIRING” is stunning debut and one can sense the artist’s dedication, musical expertise and heartfelt storytelling in crafting the eleven tracks. I for one, did not know what to expect upon opening up this debut. It is music that is way out in left field within the EDM world, furthermore, the flow and transitioning of the songs kept me on the edge of my seat. Although “REWIRED” was two years in the making, it becomes apparent Zsüd had her reasons as she delivers one of the standout albums of 2021 that deserves to be heard and wholly embraced. Bravo!

—Joseph Arthur

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REVIEWS

EPs

{

Indispensable      Essential     Good    Fair   Poor 

}

CHROMATICS

SHADOW (REMIXES) ITALIANS DO IT BETTER  U.S live electronic band Chromatics’ remix package for their classic single, “Shadow” features remixes from Maceo Plex, Dean Hurley, Melawati, Acorne and two new edits of the original version. The collection of remixes take the 2015 original in a new direction from the dancefloor to cinematic-sounding reworks. ”Shadow” broke out to the masses in late 2016 when Chromatics performed the track in David Lynch’s cult tv series, Twin Peaks (Season 3). Leading off the remixes is Maceo Plex’s reimagined and reconstructed version of the original into a beautifully crafted dance floor production. Dean Hurley and Desire come in with slower tempos and dream inducing

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on the track “Saturday.” Melawati’s take on “Shadow” steps in to the bizarro-world realm, while Michel‘s Runway Edit brings “Shadow”’s bassline and drums and lush orchestrations a bit more outfront. The final “Shadow” edit (Last Dance of the Night) features more of a distorted feel. Closing up the EP is Acrone’s remix of “Windswept,” focuses more on percussion and the darkly tinged saxophone melody. As a David Lynch fan, as well as a Chromatics fan, the marriage of the themes and “Lynchian” vision of soundscaping go hand in hand. The entire package is sheer perfection.

—Catherine Strickland

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REVIEWS EPs

ELI BROWN ESCAPE FACTORY 93

 On April 2, 2021, Eli Brown debuted an exquisite three track EP titled “Escape’ EP as the inaugural release on the newly formed Factory 93 Records imprint. The title track “Escape” kicks off the EP with Eli striking a balance between an unrelenting techno groove, early ‘90s trance elements and a gut churning drop.

“Morning Light” reveals what Eli has become so widely endeared for. A deeply moving track that showcases his talents for melodic lines, techno rhythms, sharp synths, low-end bass and soulful vocals. “My House” brings classic house vibes to this EP. The bass blends together perfectly with tight drum grooves leading to “party-ready” vocals. As the Pros state: “This is a true techno/house fusion, executed with finesse from Eli Brown.” It most certainly is and them some!

—Leo Weaver

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REVIEWS EPs

LUTTRELL MUSIC FOR MY MEMORIES PT.1 ANJUNADEEP

 Following up his latest single “Just A Dream” (feat. Delta Underground), San Francisco’s Luttrell a.k.a Eric Luttrell now shares the full five-track EP package, “Music For My Memories Pt. 1,” is the first of a trilogy of works to be shared throughout 2021. The past three years have seen Eric release two critically acclaimed LPs, his debut “Into Clouds” and the follow up “Lucky Ones,” along with a wave of well-received singles and remixes for Moby, Jai Wolf, Catching Flies, and Above & Beyond; accumulating over 55 million streams throughout his career to date. Opening the EP is the cinematic deep cut “Ex Nihilo,” Eric shares two more new originals in “Snoop Dawk” and the title track “Music For My Memories,” with the glorious downtempo “Reflections Vol. 2” highlight “October Song” and recent single “Just A Dream,” rounds out the first installment. Can’t wait to hear PT.2!

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REVIEWS

SINGLES

{

Indispensable      Essential     Good    Fair   Poor 

}

CLAPTONE

ZERO DIFFERENT RECORDS 

Claptone, the musician that maintains a mystery that few artists can match, has released his latest and long-awaited single titled “Zero.” The track is a driving representation of 2021 house music. Like everyone, Claptone made the most out of a year void of a busy touring schedule and spent his time with long studio sessions creating some exciting new and forthcoming original music for 2021. “Zero” is the first single to follow his most recently celebrated Ibiza summer hit “Drop The Pressure” and

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remixes for superstars like Ava Max, Dua Lipa, Michael Kiwanuka and Mark Ronson. ”Zero” features shining crescendos, playful and commanding vocals that showcase the clarity of Claptone’s most brilliant musical creations. The track is uncompromising, just like his earlier releases, which are known for doubly deep grooves. “Zero” represents his classic and euphoric stylings expertly constructed into another Claptone stamped dancefloor anthem.

—Catherine Strickland

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REVIEWS SINGLES

DANIEL WANROOY OCEAN TERRACE (SUNSET MIX) ELPIDA MUSIC

 Daniel Wanrooy continues to wow us here at Beatselector Magazine. Over the years we’ve gotten to know Daniel and his music, whether through extensive interviews or simply covering his new releases and various music projects, by which he always provides us with surprises, demands us to share with our readers. Wanrooy continues to do so with a fresh approach on his 2010 classic “Ocean Terrace.” The original 2010 release reached a top 10 position in Beatport. Furthermore, fellow Dutch DJ Richard Durand picked it up and included the track on his “In Search Of Sunrise 8” compilation. This new 2021 version overflows with sunshiny glints that shouts summer with fresh and synths and a lot of swing. Also featured is the talented Dutch DJ/ producer Sherano who treats listeners to a hot progressive trance remix!

—Joseph Arthur

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REVIEWS SINGLES

FAMBA STILL CALL YOU MINE SONY MUSIC

 Famba returns with “Still Call You Mine,” the first song from his forthcoming EP, “Wishes Vol.2,” to be released later in the year via Sony Music Canada Entertainment Inc. The newly released track was written and produced by Famba with Wyatt Sanders (Diplo & Trippie Redd, iann dior) and Roland “Rollo” Spreckley (Noah Cyrus, BTS x Steve Aoki). Famba states: “‘Still Call You Mine’ means that no matter what your partner did, you will still be there for them.” “Still Call You Mine,” represents Famba’s distinctive signature popleaning dance productions. The track features dynamic vocals, brightly orchestrated piano lines, and a very catchy chorus, giving the song an optimistic tone and a storyline of unconditional love. This new song showcases a new direction in songwriting compared to Famba’s debut EP “Wishes Vol. 1.”

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