Tom Morello - A Higher Frequency (ft. Serj Tankian and Attlas)
Still not sure this is real life. Attlas has had one of hell of a year, but this leaves all his previous productions in the dust. Tempered, yet as resplendent as ever and that magical ability is only amplified with Tankian's truly awesome vocals. Oh yeah, and Tom Morello, he's no slouch either. One of the tracks of the year.
George Fitzgerald ft. Lil Silva - Roll Back (TOKiMONSTA Remix)
My favourite George Fitzgerald track and TOKiMONSTA has done it justice. Beautiful chill stuff.
KAYTRANADA - IT WAS MEANT 2 B
I could take or leave the other two tracks on this EP, but man this is the kind of cool Kaytranda production that just leaves me mystified. Groovy and warm, just the way I like it.
Haywyre - Panorama: Discover
This is exactly what I expected when Haywyre's return became immanent. Didn't miss a step despite two years off. Right back to fantastic form. Incredible artistry and musical abilities. Welcome back!
Krafty Kuts - Fresh Ingredients
Everything we've heard from this EP has been fire and the new additions maintain that quality. Surprising retro feels with some of the synths that make even the more chill tracks uncontrollably groovy.
Keys N Krates - Live In Toronto
Rarely is a live album better than a studio one, but this is very much so the case with Keys N Krates who first made the mark as a live band and continue to thrive through their play. They are now masters of their craft and it shows in this release. If you haven't seen them live I cannot recommend it enough.
Robert Robert - Okay Alright Okay
Last year Robert Robert blew me away with "Coolest Place In The Universe" and he's done it again with this brilliant bouncy beat. Fun and funky, and just indie enough not to feel too processed.
Ryan Davis - Obsidian (Vessels Remix)
Big epic build up. Maybe it because I've been listening to the Ed Banger Orchestral album too much, but it certainly feels like this is built the same way. An absolutely killer craftwork.
Cowboy Rhythmbox - Terminal Madness
Wickedly weird techno EP from trusted providers in Phantasy Sound. Think Mr. Oizo, Djedjotronic and Erol Alkan all wrapped in one. "Vodonik" is my favourite of the bunch.
The Reason Y - Almathea (Kevin de Vries Remix)
Another awesome, illusory production from Kevin de Vries. Try not to float off into the afterlife.
Murlo - Evaporate
A little jolt of energy as Murlo once again showcases his sensational club craftsmanship. WILD!
Various Artists - 7Wallace Sampler
As if Idris Elba didn't already have enough on his plate, his label can now boast tracks from GAWP, Golf Clap, Avesie & Cadence and more. Five equally strong tracks all in the house sphere, leaving me hard pressed to pick a favourite, although the middle three seem to be a notch above.
Anti Up (Chris Lake & Chris Lorenzo) - Hey Pablo
Could I get away with just posting the "I've fallen down and can't get up" meme? An undeniable dream-team and they did not disappoint. Not only is each track awesome but they fit together perfectly too. Not sure what we did to deserve this treat, but boy am I glad we got it.
Smalltown DJs & Dances With White Girls - Bad Behaviour (ft. SkiiTour)
It's most definitely a party. Slick, smooth bounce. The kind that will get you jumping on the floor and flying with whatever dance you feel.
Various Artists - WE ARE DEADBEATS VOL. 3
Since Deadbeats first started, they've been on the leading edge and they've done it once again. um.., Ducky, Holly, Cozway and Rome In Silver all on one release? Weird, wicked stuff all around.
Apashe - Requiem Remixes
Not only did Apashe craft some of the best bass of the year with the original release, but tapping the likes of CloZee, TenGraphs and Chuurch makes for one hell of a remix EP. Plays like a black and white horror film.