Bearcubs - Haunts
Bigger more expansive groove than usual Bearcubs, but that doesn't take away from its influence. Bold and beautiful, "Haunts" swings a strong sword to your heart.
Autolaser - less
Stunning. Could just say that. Bright beautiful effervescent soundscape, with lovely lavish grooves and subtle playful diversions. It's tracks like this that, in my opinion, prove we're in a golden age.
knapsack - Matrix*
Did someone say golden age? That's the quality of this knapsack production. As I said above, these are some of my favourites doing their best work, and this is so that. From the real strings, to the genuine feel, knapsack has made one hell of a track. It just feels so damn good to listen to.
The Night - Set Me Free
I'm on a role with segues because I haven't smiled this much listening to a song in a long time. I'm a sucker for Alana Watson (her delivery makes my heart quiver), but boy did Dan Stephens surprise me with the production. The crisp balanced delivery of Nero is there ,but it in a more funky, upbeat fashion. And to be honest I'm not sure there's anything I like more (take their '88 and '92 VIP mixes).
Woofax - Momentum
Killer electro funk from from who else but Westwood Recordings. My favourite from the EP of massive, anthemic glitch hop. Guitar riff guide this ridiculously destructive, speaker rattling vibe.
Gramatik & Kotek - Vitalik Buterin
Kotek just doesn't stop. Is this his 4th track in 2 weeks? Not quite but damn. A masterful mix of Gramatik's groove genius and Kotek's killer crack, rattle and roll. A brilliant banger.
Big Sean - Bounce Back (Vanic Remix) [SSOS Flip]*
This one's shrouded in mystery. Me and over 7000 people are following SSOS, presumably many others unknowingly like me. Seemingly Vancouver based, this first release comes a day before their Vancouver debut with Y2K at Redroom (here). Identity aside, this is one hell of a mix... of a mix.
Rohaan - Spine*
A few seconds in I was reminded of thook, and Rohaan certainly delivered the same unique quality. The craziest combination of sounds and samples combine over massive bass and killer percussion. Genius.
rOhmz - Vagarious
Dazzling DnB from a Canadian I'd never come across before. Deft design and big wobbling bass.
Voliik x I Am Sid - Croatoan*
Midtempo is hot right now and so are these two. Dark and destructive, punches are definitely thrown. Would be wild to see this one rock a crowd.
32stitches - Fallout (Far & Few Remix)*
Speaking of hot and crowd rocking, dark bangers, Far & Few upped their game again. The unease ridden opening delivers a desolate soundscape with soul crushing synths breathing down your spine. Your skeleton then exits your body with an unexpected irksome second drop. Scary good stuff.
Djedjotronic - H+
As good as ever, Djedjotronic has delivered one of the best twists of the year here. I don't care how you feel about the first half, the release at 2:22 is pure ecstasy. Funky, fat, acid techno. Fkn right!
* asterisks indicate track available for free download