Monday, December 31, 2018

Top 100 Tracks Of 2018: 25-1

Continuation of the list started Friday: from 100-76, which also includes my disclaimer/preamble. The middle sections can be found here: from 75-51 & 50-26. Soundcloud playlist here and at the bottom.

#25: Bicep - Opal (Four Tet Remix)
A match made in heaven and speaking of heaven, this may be its soundtrack. It is epic resounding resplendence, brilliant bleepy beauty, a sweep you off your feet soaring success. Like a journey deeper into your unconscious mind, things get both more murky and more clear at the same time. If there's any track in this list that is best suited for a spiritual awakening it is this. Turn off all your lights, lie on the floor and let Four Tet transport you to his higher plane of existence.

#24: Bunji Garlin & Busta Rhymes - Drop It
(As featured on EFYE) I can't think of any track that can quite compare to the dueling fire flows in this, except for the other time these two locked horns on "Differentology." As I said the first time I wrote about this, it's as though Bunji and Busta both go super saiyan at the same time murdering everything in sight. That said you cannot leave out 1st Klase who's production is pure perfection, doing not just the big things right, but paying attention to the little details in the bed squeak, panning and more.

#23: The Night - Set Me Free
No, this is not Nero, but I don't care, it's genuinely gorgeous, funky fun. I'm not sure I'll ever properly get over Alana Watson's voice, she is an absolute sensation, especially atop this dazzling display. The whole track flows like a fantastic voyage aboard the world's most luxurious yacht with a continuous, never ending party. It is flashing lights and flights of fancy, free of fear and devoid of despair. It doesn't get any more upbeat or outrageously uplifting than this ringing resplendence.

#22: Planningtorock - Beulah Loves Dancing
I cannot help but 1) grin ear to ear and 2) sing along to the lyrics, whenever this one comes on. It is exceedingly catchy, heavenly, heartening and brilliantly built. The way the strings play is gorgeous and groovy and the way the electronic bits slide around them is truly sensational. Add in the story elements, and their roles in Powerhouse, and you've got the best track on one of the best albums of the year.

#21: Kevin de Vries - Aratak
Apart from perhaps #7 in this list, there may be no more powerful track released this year. Seeing Monika Kruse drop it with the Eiffel Tower in the background only adds to this incredible intensity, as does the way she played with it. That Cercle set is when I really fell for it, but there's no discounting the unreal alien design and fantastical flare of the studio version. Afterlife as a whole had a fantastic year, but this big build and even more epic release makes for one of the best tracks of the year.

Sunday, December 30, 2018

Top 100 Tracks Of 2018: 50-26

Continuation of the list started Friday: from 100-76, which includes my disclaimer/preamble. The second quarter of the list can be found here: from 75-51. Soundcloud playlist here and at the bottom.

#50: ATLiens - Interstellar (ft. Sara Skinner)
One of the heaviest and most beautiful productions of the year. As many twists and turns as the Christopher Nolan film of the same name. Deft design leads the two unique drops with plenty of room for the organic instruments to play in the other sections. And while the drops will leave your jaw on the floor, their power would be nothing without the bristling bass guitar and hollow drums, especially noticeable in the final 30 seconds.

#49: David Guetta & Sia - Flames (Aazar Remix)
Easily one of the most upbeat and dance-friendly tracks of the year, it also brought about some of my biggest smiles of the year. Picture your favourite 80s film, now throw this in its soundtrack. Perfect fit, right? It could replace "Take On Me" or maybe better yet, Flashdance. Aazar let it all hangout with this one. The drums slap, the groove kicks ass and the solo at the end takes no prisoners. Fabulous fire!

#48: Iglooghost - New Vectors
Some geniuses can be a little much for some ears and sometimes that brilliance can simply miss our simple minds. That is not the case here with the seemingly alien intelligence of Iglooghost and "New Vectors," which has the ability to speak to us a whole new plane of existence. The wild, rapid fire, never ending list of ingredients combine and coalesce in one of the most inspired tracks of the year. It dazzles and uplifts especially through the angelic vocal samples and resplendent bells. True brilliance.

#47: MIST - Wish Me Well (ft. Jessie Ware)
Right in the midst of my latest love affair with Jessie Ware, as I awaited the chance to see her live (definitely in my top 5 shows of the year) this dropped and there was nothing that could pull me away from its crazy catchy, super smooth bounce. I can't get enough of the contrasting timbres of the two voices or the way they play atop this heater of a beat. Easily one of my favourite pop tracks of the year.

#46: Marcus Worgull - Love Song
Again my true colours are on full display as I just cannot find my way out of the 80s. The Cure's original, and its accompanying album, one of my favourites, Disintegration came out nearly a month after my birth so maybe that's why it holds such a special place in my heart. Or maybe it's because Robert Smith saved us from Mecha-Streisand... But seriously, this new version is simply sensational. The brilliant bass-line remains intact and is alluring as ever, while the expanded electronic soundscape sweeps you off your feet, like you're home/whole/young/fun/free/clean again.

#45: Sébastien Léger - Lost Miracle
(As featured on EFYE) An epic expansive, exquisite production that thrives off subtlety. A warm wanderlust, it feels more organic than it does electronic, and that is the brilliance of Seb Léger, an uncanny ability to breathe beautiful life into his synths. Do yourself a favour and check out his Youtube/Instagram for videos of him doing this live. And don't bother with the 4 minute version, the 10 is more than twice as a good, and really gives you time to grow with the genius grooves he lays down.

#44: Mixhell & Joe Goddard - Strong & Wrong (ft. Mutado Pintado)
Sound the alarm, it's the end of the world! Just like the #5 track I cannot help but hear Mutado Pintado's voice as a part of the 'Shut Up And Dance' episode of Black Mirror. And of course the Mixhell, Joe Goddard backing plays perfectly to that dire, helpless feeling. Brilliant brooding apocalyptic production from Mixhell with the right amount of bounce and funk from Goddard to make it easily consumable. Gotta give a nod to the Craig Williams remix which really digs into the funkiness. Awesome.

Saturday, December 29, 2018

Top 100 Tracks Of 2018: 75-51

Continuation of the list started yesterday: from 100-76, which also includes my disclaimer/preamble. Soundcloud playlist here and at the bottom.

#75: Cloverdale & OSOTYT - Funky Junky
Where disco was the biggest riser in my listening habits in 2017, that title goes to funk in 2018. That said, house is still my bread and butter, so the combination of the two here is an obvious fit. The drops are solid to say the least (with some special stank on the second), but for me it's the sections around the drops that propel this track into the countdown. The funky scratching in the conclusion nails my tastes so much so that I had to include it in my new intro for the 8th season of Bump In The Hump.

#74: Moullinex ft. Georgia Anne Muldrow - Say It Slow (Wild & Free Remix)
A bright and beautifully bouncy number right from the get-go, but once those shimmering synths join the action, I'm hooked. Add in some slick little solos and flourishes and you've got a truly divine disco number. It is fabulously full of life and brilliantly buoyant, and while it's supposedly slow, it hits on all cylinders pumping out one of the more pleasurable pieces you'll hear all year.

#73: Hoodboi - True Colors
Hoodboi showed us a new side of his artistic abilities with Breathing Room, and that title track could very well have been in this spot. However, "True Colors" makes the cut as a result of its restrained, uber smooth roll out. It is like waking up to the world with new eyes, seeing shapes and colours with a renewed, childlike wonder. Full of heart and feeling it may not dazzle with banging bass or an overwrought melody, but rather it kind of floats down into your consciousness like a feather in the wind.

#72: RealMind - Actif (ft. Billboard)
Some tracks leave you speechless, and I knew this one was going to do this to me, but I could not let it go uncovered. So here's my go at it. The levels or acts as "Actif" progresses are incredible, and the fact that these two have tied them together so seamlessly is even more so. The opening build is beautiful, but boy is the punchy push into the second section some kind of special. And really that's the key for me. The way it kind of clicks and stomps and wobbles is stunning, especially as it kicks back in following the obsidian third section. And yes, if you're getting deadmau5 vibes you're not alone.

#71: Chromeo - One Track Mind
With Head Over Heels firmly in the running for album of the year, I think back to the first time hearing it in full and the laughter and joy it brought me as I drove to that night's baseball game. I'll say that this isn't the only album cut on this list, and for a bit this was the one. Actually I still go back and forth, but here we are at forth. Smooth grooves, cool call and response, and one hell of a build towards the triumphant final frame that is sure to send shivers down your spine. I can't help myself, I'm obsessed.

#70: Benny Bridges - Are You Okay?
As a part of Justin Jay's Fantastic Voyage Facebook group I got an early copy of Benny Bridges' EP and this came on in my car without proper attribution. I had to know who it was because it bumped so good. The drums and bass combine brilliantly, but it wouldn't be half as good without the extra little effects further punctuating the already punchy affair. Simple yet strong, there's no denying this delivers.

#69: TroyBoi - Frustrated (ft. Destiny)
No one does it quite like TroyBoi. Sick with strings, wicked with wobbles, vicious with vocals and top notch with twists, he really does it all. And it's all here in perhaps his best work to date. The intro teases perfectly and you know you're in for something special, but like "Do One," his other single released on that very same day, there's no way of predicting the warped genius in store. Scary good stuff.

Friday, December 28, 2018

Top 100 Tracks Of 2018: 100-76

Starting today through Monday, I'll be revealing my list of the "Top 100 Tracks Of 2018." The following is my disclaimer, as I feel it important to preface this kind of list with some insight into its creation and the methodology behind it. While I spent a lot of time seriously pouring through this year of music, this is not a really a serious endeavour. No one was polled. Sales and streams are irrelevant. This is merely my fun way of sharing the tracks and artists that made my year better, in hopes they do the same for you. The rankings are not scientific or even fair, rather they are simply a reflection of how strongly I felt these tracks and how much praise I felt they deserved.

Unlike my previous lists (2017 and 2016 respectively), you'll see that I did my best to refrain from repeating artists, attempting to focus on one unique release. That said, the thread of disco/funk continues from last year, as once again it dominated my consumption. But once again you'll notice I touch on a variety of genres, while sticking to the brand of this blog, which is indeed a reflection of my personal preferences and ideals. While last year I noticed a relatively low amount of 'club' music, certainly in comparison to the amount of time I spent in clubs, that trend has seemingly reversed (on both counts). There's a lot of pop music but unlike last year, you won't find anything like London Grammar occupying the 8th spot. Everything is at least electronic adjacent, and like Bump In The Hump, I've in essence split EDM into electronic and dance, allowing for a slightly wider birth.

Finally, I will once again say that this is by no means an exhaustive list; there are without a doubt exceptional tunes that somehow failed to make the cut. However, onward and, in this case, downward, from tracks 100 to 76 we go. Find the Soundcloud playlist here and at the bottom of the page.

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Bump In The Hump: Best Of 2018

Tracklist
  • Clarian - West Hollywood
  • Chromeo - Count Me Out
  • Kermode & SoSa - Retro
  • Cloverdale & OSOTYT - Funky Junky
  • The Funk Hunters ft. LIINKS - Say Something (Kotek Remix)
  • Nick Catchdubs ft. Mattie Safer - All Night (Chuurch Remix)
  • Humans - Breakfast With Liz
  • Tom Morello - A Higher Frequency (ft. Serj Tankian & Attlas)
  • Tennyson - Face The Night
  • ASHE - Morning Star
  • MAP - Rewr
  • BT Express - Does It Feel GoodTo You (LeBaron James Vocal Edit)
  • ANGELZ - Yeah Yeah (ft. D'Aaron Anthony)
  • DJ Sneak ft. Charlie Sputnik - Psycho Killer (Original OG Mix)
  • Charlotte Gainsbourg - Sylvia Says (A-Trak Remix)
  • Cher vs Purple Disco Machine - Gimme Gimme Gimme (A Male Stripper After Midnight) [Barry Harris Club Mix]
  • Start Sign - Bill Nye
  • Hunter Siegel - Fading (ft. Melanie?)
  • Shash'U - Getdown #5
  • Spok x GDubz - Pink Elephantz
  • Drainpuppet - Puppet Theme
  • Coldwall - Meltdown
  • Zeds Dead x NGHTMRE ft. GG Magree - Frontlines (Slooze Remix)
  • TenGraphs - Burial Tombs
  • Apashe - Majesty (ft. Wasiu)
  • Bensley - Do It Again (ft. Armanni Reign)
  • Peekaboo & G-REX - Babatunde (KRILLA Flip)
  • Porter Robinson - Divinity (Rezz Remix)
  • Kryojen - Jaded
  • GTA ft. Sam Bruno - Red Lips (MRZ Flip)
  • TYNAN & thook - Voidless

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Best Tracks Of 2018: Honorable Mentions

It's getting to be that time of year. Seems most publications have either already unveiled their year end lists, or are at least in the process of doing so. I'll push back a bit, in that there's still good music coming out and certainly some of it deserves spots in these year end reflections. That said, I still aim to have my Top 100 Tracks of 2018 list out in 2018, along with some kind of album showcase. But since the Top 100 is still in flux (at least in terms of placement), I've found that I've got a nice 18 leftovers which deserve at least the title of Honorable Mentions. So without further ado, here they are, sorted in alphabetical order by original artist, with brief descriptions after the Soundcloud playlist/jump.


Wednesday, December 19, 2018

Bump In The Hump: December 19 (Season 8, Episode 15)

Tracklist
  • DJ PP - Queen Of The Disco (Jerome Robins & Hazzaro Remix)
  • Demuir's Underground Truth Council - Fate For Faith
  • Chromeo ft. French Montana & Stefflon Don - Don't Sleep (EDX's Miami Sunset Remix)
  • HERO - Stay The Night
  • Cool Company - Bust It Open (Kill Them With Colour Remix)
  • Defunk ft. Megan Hamilton & Wes Writer - Can't Buy Me (CASPER & BAUMANN Remix)
  • Henrik The Artist vs. Ca$h Out - Naked Hold Up
    • Unreleased
  • Prince Paris - All Of You (ft. Beau Collins)
  • Lunice - Partout
  • Jaymie Silk - Space Cowboy
  • RL Grime ft. Freya Ridings - Shrine (Cozway Remix)
  • So Sus - Pantheon
  • Maha Quest - Visions
  • Abstrakt Sonance & Dan Redekop - Breathe You (ft. AMBER)
  • 1five1 - Syrup
  • Dyzphoria - ...it goes on
  • Nathan Micay - Peaks
  • X-Press 2 ft. David Byrne - Lazy (dust-e-1's Lazy-E Mix)
  • Ephwurd - Accelerator
  • Haus Of Panda - Stompin' To My Beat
  • Shaun Frank & Hunter Siegel - Shapes (ft. Roshin)
  • Guyus Grey - Lemon Walker
  • Fera - Digestion
  • Rezz x Blanke - Mixed Signals
  • Dr. Ozi - Monster Down
  • Sam Lamar - Destroy
  • Qoiet - Cut Me Open (TenGraphs Remix)
  • Walter Wilde x SubDocta - Suga
  • Flix - Cold Feet

Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Bump In The Hump Sneak Peek: Defunk - Can't Buy Me (The Remixes)

Yes, I know it's Tuesday, but being the crazy days before the whole world breaks down for the holidays, I figured I'd get a jump on 2018's last new episode of Bump In The Hump. Fresh (and free) from Westwood Recordings are a trio of remixes of Defunk's "Can't Buy Me," one of which will work its way into the mix tomorrow. Stream below and place your bets as to which banger makes the cut.Being the final new episode of the year, I've got a couple special treats in store, but don't expect a full review of the year (that's coming next week). This episode will indeed follow the standard format with a few looks ahead to the weekend, with events from the Jungle Funk crew, Kill Them With Colour and a special Kawaii Leonard Soundclash (cute beats vs rap vocals). Being the end of the year, there's also a handful of tracks from year end, celebratory compilations including multiples from LuckyMe's Advent Calendar. Of course there's also the Fire Finale, so you can trust your holidays will get off to a scorching start. As always listen live from 7-9 PM EST via Radio Humber or after the fact on Mixcloud here.

FOLLOW DEFUNK: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Monday, December 17, 2018

Prince - Controversy (Mighty Mouse's Revised Edit)

Going back to November, Mighty Mouse has had quite the month. His sensational Glitterbox release "The Spirit" got tapped as Annie Mac's Hottest Record and he shared the stage with Rob da Bank for 1999: A Prince Odyssey. Smack dab in the middle of that stretch we were graced with a revised version of The Purple One's classic "Controversy." Like the vast majority of Prince's catalog, there is no shortage of magic in this edit. It is a marvelous mixture of divine disco, bubbling bass, and gurgling guitar, all brewing in a massive purple pot. Just one sip of this sublime concoction will leave your head spinning, or perhaps, you spinning on your head. It quite simply overflows with the kind of love and allure that His Royal Badness brought to every room he entered. Bring it to yours with free here.FOLLOW MIGHTY MOUSE: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Friday, December 14, 2018

Circle Sky - Ghost In The Machine (ABSOLUTE. Remix)

Already one of my favourite artists of the year, London's ABSOLUTE. just unleashed another awesome techno thumper in his remix of Circle Sky "Ghost In The Machine." Following his formidable Malfunction EP on Turbo, we're once again wowed by his killer craftsmanship and superb storytelling. A brilliant blend of house, techno and acid, "Ghost In The Machine" emerges from your speakers like the first living organisms breaking out of the primordial goo. Taking shape through throbbing bass and constant, subtle progression it is like your eyes finally focusing on the monster in the distance. And while all the percussive interplay, chord combinations and acid additions are sure to dazzle, there is no more important element in "Ghost In The Machine" than the sensational, stripped down, seismic drops. The downward power of ABSOLUTE.'s jack-hammering bass will have your mouth agape as you and the rest of the revelers pulsate across the dance-floor. Do not miss out on this massive production, download/stream the whole "Ghost In The Machine" package including the original, here.FOLLOW ABSOLUTE.: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
FOLLOW CIRCLE SKY: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Thursday, December 13, 2018

Ticklish & Qnoe - Eau De Club EP

Just over a month ago I wrote about Ticklish and his take on Nelly's "Ride Wit Me." Going back even further to August I shared his collaborative mix of "International Players Anthem" with Qnoe. Well today, that duo has reunited to share 5 club friendly edits, including classics "Break Ya Neck," "Make It Rain," and a killer recast of Waka Flocka & "No Bystanders." Each of the tracks from the Eau De Club EP can be copped individually with free downloads from Hypeddit or purchased through Bandcamp.

While edit EPs aren't usually dependent on flow, using "Make It Rain" as the opening track is perfect. The horns welcome your ears like a royal entrance, setting the bouncy scene as the club is set to get wet, whether with the EP's title, rain or, more likely, sweat. The second track "Blue Fingers," a flip of Smokepurpp, shows Ticklish & Qnoe's range, while still imbuing a strong bounce and sway. Following that get-down is the biggest club shaker of the EP in "No Flames," where the dirtiness of "Hard In The Paint," Travis Scott, Juice WRLD, and Sheck Wes combine in epic fashion. As if that weren't trippy enough, the following track "Break Ya Neck," of course a spin on Busta Rhymes, will leave your mind bent, battered and bruised. There's no beating the original hook, but hearing it freaked out in this fashion is absolutely wild. Finally, Eau De Club concludes with Big Sean's "Pull Up N Wreck" playing out like the closing credits to an 80s film. Supremely smooth, this new backing beat actually fits Sean's slick vocals incredibly well. And really, that's what makes this EP such a stunner; Ticklish and Qnoe have a knack for both building and playing with beats, giving tracks a new life with their Frankenstein-esque combinations. Stream their creations below and get Eau De Club here.
FOLLOW TICKLISH: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
FOLLOW QNOE: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Bump In The Hump: December 12 (Season 8, Episode 14)

Tracklist

Bump In The Hump Sneak Peek: New EPs from Adam Pearce, Attlas, Hesk & Pusher

With the year coming to a close artists are frantically releasing their final releases of 2018. Since last week's episode of Bump In The Hump, we've got a number of new EPs from the likes of Adam Pearce, Attlas, Hesk and Pusher. Find each linked below and hear a track from each on tonight's episode.Now of course this only accounts for 4 of the 27 tracks in tonight's episode so there's still a whole heap more. There's over an hour of house and techno, some sick trap, hellbent midtempo and diabolic dubstep. Listen live from 7-9 PM EST via Radio Humber and find it after the fact on Mixcloud here.

Tuesday, December 11, 2018

The Flourish - Ultimo

Yesterday electronic explorer The Flourish unleashed an incredibly unique, end of days banger in "Ultimo." Released on Presently Lifted, it features eeriness throughout, primarily through faraway, warped sirens and all manner of rattling percussion. It's seemingly sparse yet holds immense gravity, literally caving in on itself in the sped up final minute. It is the last pulses of energy, struggling to break through the grave darkness, as the universe collapses in upon itself. Well no doubt weird, The Flourish has certainly succeeded in painting a vivid, weighty picture. It's light on your wallet however, free here.FOLLOW THE FLOURISH: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Monday, December 10, 2018

Mousse T. ft. Cleah - Melodie (Tensnake Remix)

Friday marked the release of a trio of remixes of veteran German producer Mousse T.'s "Melodie" featuring vocalist Cleah. Joining the package that includes his own 'disco shizzle' remix are equally adept artists in The Shapeshifters and Tensnake; the former providing a pristine, ringing remix with the latter laying down a more luxurious, almost loungy groove. Always the author of breathtaking beauty, Tensnake's take on "Melodie" buoys Cleah's already ethereal vocals into clouds of cashmere with his sublime sound design. That said, the design is nothing without captivating chords and potent placement, both of which appear throughout Tensnake's remix. Slow burning brilliance through warm risers and directional drums keep the nearly seven minute cruising with no chance of boredom. Get all the remixes of "Melodie" for stream and download via Mousse T.'s own Peppermint Jam Records, here.FOLLOW MOUSSE T.: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
FOLLOW TENSNAKE: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Saturday, December 08, 2018

Phazz - I Told U (ft. Tim Moyo)

A few short months after the release of THINGS.TAKES.TIME, french producer Phazz has upped the ante with a sensational single called "I Told U," once again tapping Tim Moyo for vocals. Now I must admit, I wasn't immediately struck by this track. The opening had me doubtful; it's just not my usual fare. The drums and their awesome quality (like the rest track) started to sell me. Then just like the elements in the chorus, I'm all in. The brilliant blend of such powerful sounds, perfectly placed around Moyo's winding wistfulness is an absolute wonder. Like all the best pop songs it's an earworm, easily replayable on an endless loop. Whether it be any of the drums, the ripe brass or Moyo's vocals/lyrics, there's simply always something to marvel at. Can't promise I won't say "I Told U" when this gets stuck in your head. Get it from your streaming source or purchase here and follow the artists below.FOLLOW PHAZZ: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
FOLLOW TIM MOYO: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Friday, December 07, 2018

Enlightened Listening for December 7

Here we are with another fantastic Friday of releases. This week's Enlightened Listening includes the likes of a couple killer EPs from Botnek and Volac, bass brilliance from LSDREAM and WHIPPED CREAM, and a long awaited collab from Slumberjack and TroyBoi. Listen/read below and enjoy!

Qrion - Pending Matters
The track she was using as an intro to her GAF tour. Beautiful and expansive. Can't help but feel a Jacques Greene vibe and lord knows that's a good thing.

Friendly Fires - Heaven Let Me In (Melé Remix)
Spoiler alert: The original is in my top 100, but this new version make take its spot and send it even higher in the standings. Melé's absolutely nailed the vibe and given us even more to groove to.

Bob Moses - Heaven Only Knows (FaltyDL Remix)
Love the dirty, dark vibes brought in for this mix, especially as they play again the piano chords.

LSDREAM - Shadow Self
Whatever moniker he uses, Sami Diament always puts his heart and soul into his productions. Clearly the case here, this isn't just a brilliant banger but a slice of modern humanity. I feel like LSDREAM and WHIPPED CREAM are on the same wavelength and the prospect of a collab is something I cannot get out of my head. Hopefully this note is enough for me to speak it into existence.

Slumberjack x TroyBoi - Solid
Speaking of killer collabs, when I first heard this at the TroyBoi/Slumberjack show over a year ago it was clear this was a weapon. Now in full form we're realizing the full force of Slumberjack's dope drum design and TroyBoi's top notch twists and turns.

Botnek - Can't Remember
After nearly calling it quits, Botnek really seem to have found their form with this new deeper house sound. As you would expect the collab with Aylen is all kinds of crazy.

Volac - Funky
Holy huge EP. Both tracks are absolutely massive floor fillers. Tech house quality design with just the right amount of funk and off-kilter groove to keep you entertained.

WHIPPED CREAM - Luv
While she calls this something different, it really feels like we're getting the most genuine WHIPPED CREAM to date. That said, it's almost impossible to pin down this track, but maybe that's what she's getting at.

Yultron - Slave To The Rave
Absolutely jacking stuff. A banger among a list of bangers. If you haven't lost your head yet wait for the second drop.

Thursday, December 06, 2018

TYPE3 & Sebastian Knight - Boombox

For years Botnek have been among my favourite artists, frolicking in their fiery electro/bass/house bangers. It was always their most wild, unrestrained releases that brought me the most pleasure and sent me into tizzies on the dance floor. In fact I believe my most manic times in the club came when they were on the decks. So to say I was excited when they announced their own label, World Famous Headquarters, would be a grave understatement. Still in its infancy, it is this seventh release, "Boombox" from Vegas residents TYPE3 and Sebastian Knight, that has me sold on its electrifying output.

Labelled fidget house, a subgenre a friend and I were just lamenting as seemingly fallen to the wayside, "Boombox" is a certified banger; a track you can most certainly lose your mind to. Absolutely jacking and seemingly ready to explode at any moment, it speeds through with rapid fire wobs and maniacal samples. It bombards your senses but in the best way possible; it is no thrown together collection of sounds but rather a potent progression of pleasure. Like classic Crookers, Jack Beats or even Botnek, this one is sure to set fire to the floor and has already received support from the likes of LondonBridge, Pasquale Rotella and Martin Garrix. Get "Boombox" for stream/download here.FOLLOW TYPE3: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
FOLLOW SEBASTIAN KNIGHT: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Skee-Lo - I Wish (Paul Mond Remix)

Indie Bouncin' originator and bootleg boss Paul Mond is back with yet another relaxed remix of a classic cut, this time taking to Skee-Lo's 1995 hit "I Wish." Despite being labelled as a future flip rather than the standard baile flip, this is pure Paul Mond. Cool as anything, Mond is the man Skee-Lo wishes he could be. He just keeps pulling rabbits out of hats with these remixes, flipping the script while still maintaining the original allure. However, unlike his two most recent releases, takes on heavier fares in Ludacris "The Potion" and Sheck Wes "Mo Bamba," this is less transformative and more of a tilt. Whereas the Luda and Sheck takes feel more like cheeky remixes, this one really fits. In the alternate reality that Paul Mond paints, baile funk is always the original and I'll be the first to say it's glorious. Get "I Wish," with his whole discography, via Bandcamp and stayed tuned for more magic from the man.FOLLOW PAUL MOND: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Wednesday, December 05, 2018

Bump In The Hump: December 5 (Season 8, Episode 13)

Tracklist
  • Tiga vs. Audion - Let's Go Dancing (Maya Jane Coles Dancing In The Deep Remix)
  • Romain Pellegrin - Thinking About Ya (Hatiras Remix)
  • Willy B. - Movement
  • RYME - Untitled 2
  • Danny Fontana & Lowshape - Left To Me (Rustek Remix)
  • Ramon Tapia - Backspace (Weska Remix)
  • Start Sign - Bill Nye
  • Kaytranada - IT WAS MEANT 2 B
  • Jane's Party - Drive (ft. Kirty)
  • Tom Morello - A Higher Frequency (ft. Serj Tankian & Attlas)
  •  Robert Robert - Okay Alright Okay
  • Grimes - We Appreciate Power (ft. Hana)
  • Marie Davidson & Lamusa II - La Ecstase (Silent Servant Remix)
  • Keys N Krates - Flute Loop (ft. Ouici & Leland Whitty) [Live]
  • Krafty Kuts - Ain't No Doubt (ft. Dynamite MC & Spell)
  • The Funk Hunters ft. Leo Napier - Hands Up (Raise Your Fist) [Jenaux Remix]
  • Haywyre - Context (Pt. 1)
  • falcxne - Call Me
  • MDK & Sterrezo - Lightspeed
  • Kermode & SoSa - Retro
  • Groves - Hennessy Brown
  • Hesk - Ps Nd Qs
  • dust-e-1 - One On One
  • Mat The Alien - Rock Em
  • Apashe ft. Wasiu - Majesty (Chuurch Remix)
  • Cozway & BONNEMA - Radicals
  • Disturbed - Down With The Sickness (SYN Flip)
  • Porter Robinson - Divinity (Rezz Remix)
  • INF1N1TE & Notixx - Fall For You

Bump In The Hump Sneak Peek: Extended Weekend Warmup

Seems party season is in full gear as this week's episode of Bump In The Hump features music from nine different shows happening this weekend. Find details/tickets via link to Facebook events below.

Thursday Dec. 7

Funk The Halls Tour - The Funk Hunters* w/ Mat The Alien* @ Velvet Underground

Friday Dec. 8

NDY x OE Present: Marie Davidson* w/ dust-e-1* & Phèdre @ The Garrison

Dead Royalty 2 Year Anniversary: Barely Alive w/ Subtronics & IN1F1NTE* @ Velvet Underground

Funk'N Deep Showcase: Loco Jam w/ DURTYSOXXX, Rustek* & Footwork Fuel @ One Loft

Frequency Fridays: Brock Edwards w/ Kow B2B Willy B.* & Keylow B2B Bishop.Lo @ Revolution (London)

Saturday Dec. 8

Closer We Get Tour - Keys N Krates* @ Velvet Underground

Gene Farris w/ Hatiras*, Amália Leandro & Special Guest @ One Loft

Al G & Jerome Andrews w/ Kevin McVey, Start Sign*, Tri-ohm & 2Shay @ One Loft Cafe

Maya Jane Coles* w/ Gera, Carerra & Tavares @ CODA


The 11 artists noted with asterisk make up a large portion of tonight's episode of Bump In The Hump, but there's a whole heap of quality tracks otherwise. In fact it may be the best episode of the year. Some of the most special records from the biggest names, with some unique gems sprinkled in. Catch it all live from 7-9 PM EST on Radio Humber or after the fact via Mixcloud here.

Tuesday, December 04, 2018

Ape Drums - Me Solta

Miami based percussion mastermind, Ape Drums just dropped a massive confluence of funky Brazilian fire and bass with "Me Solta," the fourth release on his own Jungle Beats. A whopper of a tune right from the first flaring note, it feels like it could explode at any moment, like a soccer stadium locked into a tie waiting for that go ahead goal. The energy rides through the pulsating power of the blasts and only gets more anxious as the drums rattle towards the climatic releases. "Me Solta" may seem like pure mayhem or mere unhinged energy, but Ape Drums has done a bang up job in directing all that unbridled intensity into this two minute killer club weapon. Get the fire free via ToneDen here.FOLLOW APE DRUMS: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Loudside - What They Want

Polish producer Loudside just dropped a trap banger in "What They Want" via Amsterdam outfit clout.nu. Immediately casting a long shadow, the track opens with the obligatory ominous atmosphere of trap, the promise of peril looming in the near future. This is quite literally heralded by the brass blasts, ushering in the titular sample which, like the horns, gets twisted and warped as the track progresses. The delivery of the vocals in the drop and the way they play with the drums makes for an infernal dance off, taking the track to new heights. Only furthering that revelry, the return of the horns excites as the promise of another dirty drop becomes immanent. The second mixed up drop, and the preceding synth play, keeps the track fresh, leaving you wanting more as it comes to a close. Play "What They Want" on repeat all you like with free download from ToneDen or download/stream here.FOLLOW LOUDSIDE: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Monday, December 03, 2018

A-Trak - Hollerboard Redux Set

There's no debating A-Trak's spot on the Mount Rushmore of DJs. You could literally spend days, if not weeks, enjoying his wide range of sets and mixes. Back in October of 2015 he dropped his "Bloghaus Revival Mix," with the followup coming about about six months later, here. While he didn't directly reference the Erol Alkan forum, it no doubt played part in the track selection as a hub for electronic music aficionados from around 2007-2009. Last night he released a recording of a September 28th set in Philadelphia entitled "Hollerboard Redux Set."

As he mentions in the description, this Hollerboard Redux party arose from the message board of the same name, based around Diplo and Low Budget's Hollertronix parties. Before Soundcloud and EDM, it was message boards and forums like Erol Alkan's and Hollerboard where DJs and fans alike shared mashups and "lesser-known regional styles," bringing incredible creativity and experimentation to DJ sets. The result below, a mix of tracks from the Hollerboard Era and new songs with the same spirit, is one of the widest ranging sets you'll ever hear. Where else are you going to get Billy Joel pitted against A$AP Rocky & Skepta in the same hour as Justin Timberlake, Parliament, Bloc Party and Kraftwerk.
The back and forth in the mix is incredible. One minute you're popping off to Cajmere "Percolator" the next your gliding across the floor to A-Trak's ABBA aided "Voulez-Vous" or pumping up the jam before releasing the beast on Hall & Oates. That said, A-Trak's made all of those transitions fit together better than PB&J. Like Kid Sister's "Pro Nails," which he helped write, this mix is dressed to the nines, "toes done up with her finger nails matchin'." Just one look at the massive tracklist, almost as wide as it is tall, and you'll realize what kind of treat you're in for. It's some serious "Laffy Taffy" as A-Trak's journey is sure to leave your head spinning.

Finally, as writing this A-Trak tweeted out a list of his DJ sets from Hollerboard to Bloghaus to Rap and Cut It Out (here). If you've missed any of these, make sure to save or download for your holiday parties!

FOLLOW A-TRAK: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER