Vancouver's So Sus is one of those guys that seemingly has his hands in every side of the scene. He's seen releases on countless labels, he's a founder at the "Forward Thinking Musical Cult" Crystals, he does A&R at SKIO Music, and now he's leading the likes of Benzi, Holly, Moore Kismet and others into URL ether for Saturday's Lockdown Online Music Festival in support of Music Heals Canada. The event which he's hosting on his Twitch channel (twitch.tv/sosusbeats) runs from 1-8 PM PDT and is free of charge, however any donations received will be put towards music therapy programs.
With that in mind this week's episode of Bump In The Hump features tracks from So Sus and Cozway. Both tracks can be yours for free before the episode goes live on Radio Humber from 7-9 EDT tonight. Listen now below and find each episode cataloged on Mixcloud here.FOLLOW SO SUS: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
FOLLOW COZWAY: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
The frenetic world of electronic music is full of distractions and diversions, hindering the ability to find transcendent music. Let Oggie James be your guru and lead down the path to musical Enlightenment. Album, song and event reviews, mixtapes, and radio shows, light the way to Enlightenment, conveyed by Oggie James.
Showing posts with label Benzi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Benzi. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 15, 2020
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Mixes For Thanksgiving Weekend
For us Canadians we've got a long weekend to look forward to and while it's likely to be jam packed with lazing around the house, I've compiled a list of recent mixes you can play to make the time pass more easily. You'll notice that more than half of these mixes are disco and house-centric, a variety I think ought to be acceptable to most in-laws and older generations, I have also included a couple heavier, more banger friendly affairs. Find brief descriptions after the playlist and note that the mixes marked with asterisks are available for free download. Enjoy and indulge in moderation!
Erol Alkan - Live @ Sónar 2019
It's hard to beat the power of an Erol Alkan live set, the man's got an incredible ear and an uncanny knack for putting tracks in a position to succeed. The tracklist is there but it may as well not be as this nearly two hour extravaganza of energy is far more than the sum of its parts.
Benzi - Girl Trapz Vol. Sixteen*
'Edat' expert and mix master Benzi continues to churn out killer mixes. Here he gives old standards a breath of fresh air with lightening quick cuts and grin-inducing combinations. More than that he's always got the freshest of the fresh, featuring incredible amounts of forthcoming fire.
Folamour - Tapes For The PPL #6*
Far more laid back and funky than the previous two mixes, Folamour delivers delightful disco vibes built around a live band feel. There's oh so much awesome instrumentation and it moves along with incredible ease. Put this one on while you're cooking or cleaning and the work will fly by.
LeBaron James - Music For Lovers Of Music Vol. 2*
While sharing the same spirit as Folamour, this one is much more sonically full and focused on the dance-floor. LeBaron James tap into tons of classic disco vibes with fresh cuts from the likes of Purple Disco Machine, Joey Negro and Dr Packer, plus one of my favourites of the moment, their "Party Starter."
Mighty Mouse - Autumn 2019 Mixtape (Part 1)*
Almost splitting the last two mixes down the middle, Mighty Mouse too taps Horse Meat Disco's "Falling Deep In Love" while also offering up a number of his own awesome edits including his recent Double Exposure "Free Love." Surrender to the sublime strings and melt into this magnificent mix.
Hunter Siegel - Live From No Neon @ CODA (Sept 7. 2019)
The dark plur powerhouse is somehow managing to get darker and this live set illustrates that perfectly. I'll admit I haven't been as consistent in my No Neon attendance as of late, but at the last open-to-close set I saw Hunter play it featured tons of techno and he certainly has a knack for it. Here he plays plenty of extended numbers doing incredible duty in his post-Volac/Phlegmatic Dogs set. Gotta love the Victor Ruiz remix of Moby's "Natural Blues." Bravo Hunter, bravo!
Tensnake - In Your System Vol. 10
While it was the Mighty Mouse and Folamour mixes that appeared in my feed today, it was this one that most inspired me to make this post. Tensnake takes his time with this hour, letting the magic of his mix slowly suck you in. It is incredibly smooth and full of shimmering, groovy beauty.
Greg Wilson - Live @ La Discothèque, Ibiza Rocks Hotel (09.09.2019)*
Who better to close this post with than one of my most trusted, go-to DJs. Greg Wilson nearly always gives away his live sets for free and we can only hope more DJs follow suit. Not only that but he will often answer inquiries for IDs in the Soundcloud comments. His mixes are always clean and fun, showcasing decades of experience in the scene and unreal range in terms of track selection and vibe curation.
Erol Alkan - Live @ Sónar 2019
It's hard to beat the power of an Erol Alkan live set, the man's got an incredible ear and an uncanny knack for putting tracks in a position to succeed. The tracklist is there but it may as well not be as this nearly two hour extravaganza of energy is far more than the sum of its parts.
Benzi - Girl Trapz Vol. Sixteen*
'Edat' expert and mix master Benzi continues to churn out killer mixes. Here he gives old standards a breath of fresh air with lightening quick cuts and grin-inducing combinations. More than that he's always got the freshest of the fresh, featuring incredible amounts of forthcoming fire.
Folamour - Tapes For The PPL #6*
Far more laid back and funky than the previous two mixes, Folamour delivers delightful disco vibes built around a live band feel. There's oh so much awesome instrumentation and it moves along with incredible ease. Put this one on while you're cooking or cleaning and the work will fly by.
LeBaron James - Music For Lovers Of Music Vol. 2*
While sharing the same spirit as Folamour, this one is much more sonically full and focused on the dance-floor. LeBaron James tap into tons of classic disco vibes with fresh cuts from the likes of Purple Disco Machine, Joey Negro and Dr Packer, plus one of my favourites of the moment, their "Party Starter."
Mighty Mouse - Autumn 2019 Mixtape (Part 1)*
Almost splitting the last two mixes down the middle, Mighty Mouse too taps Horse Meat Disco's "Falling Deep In Love" while also offering up a number of his own awesome edits including his recent Double Exposure "Free Love." Surrender to the sublime strings and melt into this magnificent mix.
Hunter Siegel - Live From No Neon @ CODA (Sept 7. 2019)
The dark plur powerhouse is somehow managing to get darker and this live set illustrates that perfectly. I'll admit I haven't been as consistent in my No Neon attendance as of late, but at the last open-to-close set I saw Hunter play it featured tons of techno and he certainly has a knack for it. Here he plays plenty of extended numbers doing incredible duty in his post-Volac/Phlegmatic Dogs set. Gotta love the Victor Ruiz remix of Moby's "Natural Blues." Bravo Hunter, bravo!
Tensnake - In Your System Vol. 10
While it was the Mighty Mouse and Folamour mixes that appeared in my feed today, it was this one that most inspired me to make this post. Tensnake takes his time with this hour, letting the magic of his mix slowly suck you in. It is incredibly smooth and full of shimmering, groovy beauty.
Greg Wilson - Live @ La Discothèque, Ibiza Rocks Hotel (09.09.2019)*
Who better to close this post with than one of my most trusted, go-to DJs. Greg Wilson nearly always gives away his live sets for free and we can only hope more DJs follow suit. Not only that but he will often answer inquiries for IDs in the Soundcloud comments. His mixes are always clean and fun, showcasing decades of experience in the scene and unreal range in terms of track selection and vibe curation.
Friday, April 12, 2019
Enlightened Listening for April 12
Fridays and the new music that comes with it are life giving and this week's edition of Enlightened Listening is no different. We start more downtempo with a couple cool cuts from Gramatik and Tame Impala, before getting glitzy with Mark Ronson. Next up is Robotaki who delivers an ingenious EP in Anachronism from which we've already heard singles "Meant To Be" and "All I Can Do." Staying with geniuses, how about the highly anticipated No Geography from the legendary Chemical Brothers? While we knew that would be good, I must say I'm pleasantly surprised at the quality of the foursome of remixes of Dua Lipa's "Swan Song" from Alita: Battle Angel. Top choice cuts from Calibre and DJ Shadow with NastyNasty. The energy continues to rise as Riddim Commission comes through with a crisp, killer single in "Look So Cute." Next up is the always exceptional Night Bass who tap Kendoll for a fulsome five track EP in Playhouse. Rounding out the playlist is Benzi's "Whatcha Gonna Do" which is almost like a TWRK/Girl Trapz/Get Right Radio mix in a tight three minute delivery. Enjoy!
Gramatik - East River Soul (ft. Adam Stehr)
Tame Impala - Borderline
Mark Ronson - Late Night Feelings (ft. Lykke Li)
Robotaki - Anachronism
The Chemical Brothers - No Geography
Dua Lipa - Swan Song (From the Motion Picture: "Alita: Battle Angel) [Remixes]
Riddim Commission - Look So Cute (ft. Gabi'el)
Kendoll - Playhouse
Benzi - Whatcha Gonna Do (ft. Bhad Bhabie, Rich The Kid & 24hrs)
Gramatik - East River Soul (ft. Adam Stehr)
Tame Impala - Borderline
Mark Ronson - Late Night Feelings (ft. Lykke Li)
Robotaki - Anachronism
The Chemical Brothers - No Geography
Dua Lipa - Swan Song (From the Motion Picture: "Alita: Battle Angel) [Remixes]
Riddim Commission - Look So Cute (ft. Gabi'el)
Kendoll - Playhouse
Benzi - Whatcha Gonna Do (ft. Bhad Bhabie, Rich The Kid & 24hrs)
Tuesday, February 27, 2018
Point Point Live at AccorHotels Arena
I've gushed about Parisian supergroup and Record Record founders Point Point a number of times, both here and on FUXWITHIT, but I'm not sure I've been as in love with them as I am today with the release of their sublime live set from this past weekend. Recorded at AccorHotels Arena in the French capital; Aazar, LH4L, Devoted To God, and Nömak have illustrated exactly what it is I love about them. I knew that their unique brand of 'future bass' spoke to me, whether it be as individuals, as Point Point or in their releases on Record Record, but I see now why it does with this mix. It hits on so many classics and staples of the club, trap, jersey club, hip hop, and even funk scenes. The hour long set really has some of everything: it goes hard, it gets emotional, it features a number of their own tunes and so many of the tracks and artists that they draw inspiration from. Let me now do a quick run-through, below.
The epic arc opens up with sweet strings, easing our ears in slowly before the bright, bleepy vibes burst over the skyline like the first beams of morning light. The energizing opening is the first of dozens of flawless transitions, this one in particular plays into San Holo's "We Rise." Then as if writing this piece for me, the cinematic arc becomes blatantly clear as we get the now classic "Cinema Slasherr" edit from Benzi & Elephante. Following that we get the first of multiple Kanye cuts, this one coming as their own remix of "Power." The flurry of nostalgia stays steady with Sam Smith's vocals from "Latch" leading into the lap of power that is Freekill's remix of Aazar's "Gyal." Minutes later we're treated to the classic Run DMC/Bob James sample, which then transitions into an ungodly edit of KC & The Sunshine Band's "That's The Way (I Like It)," before slipping into Chicago's "Street Player" and then MERCER's "Satisfy." Just writing this has me hyperventilating. Someone get me a paper bag! This is too good.
The first third of the mix concludes some classic grooves from Armand Van Helden before giving way to the gritty genius that is Pyramid's remix of "Utopia." And then here comes your answer as to whether the mix could get better, and astonishingly the answer is yes, as in comes The King with "Beat It." I wish I could line this article with GIFs and emojis to better illustrate just what Point Point is making my face do. This is just crazy and quite simply one of the best mixes I've ever heard. It is incredibly enjoyable and while it leaves me wanting more, it keeps feeding me like Homer Simpson being fed donuts on a continuous loop. And if you thought I was done with the insane play-by-play, how about this transition from the Spice Girls aided "Oooops" of Drippy Dolphin into SOPHIE's "MSMSMSM" and then Carmada's remix of "Right Here, Right Now."
As we round into the second half of the mix we get more of Point Point's own productions including "All This" and "Korean BBQ," before a flurry of San Holo, Galantis and Jack Ü. These classics are then followed by a bit of a new music jam session, that neither I nor Shazam are able to identify. We're then beckoned towards the finale with a foursome of Point Point tracks "Life In Grey," "Serious Mood," "Part Of The Game," and "Hands." The grand finale comes in the form of a whistle aided live version of M83's "Midnight City." You're likely left both a shadow of your former self and a more fulfilled, actualized version. I for one know I'll be coming back to this mix many times in the coming days and months, and am grateful to be able to download it absolutely free. Do so here, and follow Point Point below.FOLLOW POINT POINT: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
The epic arc opens up with sweet strings, easing our ears in slowly before the bright, bleepy vibes burst over the skyline like the first beams of morning light. The energizing opening is the first of dozens of flawless transitions, this one in particular plays into San Holo's "We Rise." Then as if writing this piece for me, the cinematic arc becomes blatantly clear as we get the now classic "Cinema Slasherr" edit from Benzi & Elephante. Following that we get the first of multiple Kanye cuts, this one coming as their own remix of "Power." The flurry of nostalgia stays steady with Sam Smith's vocals from "Latch" leading into the lap of power that is Freekill's remix of Aazar's "Gyal." Minutes later we're treated to the classic Run DMC/Bob James sample, which then transitions into an ungodly edit of KC & The Sunshine Band's "That's The Way (I Like It)," before slipping into Chicago's "Street Player" and then MERCER's "Satisfy." Just writing this has me hyperventilating. Someone get me a paper bag! This is too good.
The first third of the mix concludes some classic grooves from Armand Van Helden before giving way to the gritty genius that is Pyramid's remix of "Utopia." And then here comes your answer as to whether the mix could get better, and astonishingly the answer is yes, as in comes The King with "Beat It." I wish I could line this article with GIFs and emojis to better illustrate just what Point Point is making my face do. This is just crazy and quite simply one of the best mixes I've ever heard. It is incredibly enjoyable and while it leaves me wanting more, it keeps feeding me like Homer Simpson being fed donuts on a continuous loop. And if you thought I was done with the insane play-by-play, how about this transition from the Spice Girls aided "Oooops" of Drippy Dolphin into SOPHIE's "MSMSMSM" and then Carmada's remix of "Right Here, Right Now."
As we round into the second half of the mix we get more of Point Point's own productions including "All This" and "Korean BBQ," before a flurry of San Holo, Galantis and Jack Ü. These classics are then followed by a bit of a new music jam session, that neither I nor Shazam are able to identify. We're then beckoned towards the finale with a foursome of Point Point tracks "Life In Grey," "Serious Mood," "Part Of The Game," and "Hands." The grand finale comes in the form of a whistle aided live version of M83's "Midnight City." You're likely left both a shadow of your former self and a more fulfilled, actualized version. I for one know I'll be coming back to this mix many times in the coming days and months, and am grateful to be able to download it absolutely free. Do so here, and follow Point Point below.FOLLOW POINT POINT: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
Tuesday, February 20, 2018
Four Fire Mixes
While I tend to spend most of my time digging through individual tracks, this past weekend afforded me the time enjoy some more mountainous mixes. So I've decided to share four of my favourites, two downright banger for banger blitzkriegs and two more tempered groove and dance oriented odysseys. Find them below in order of length from shortest to longest, with brief description attached.
An obvious contrast to Benzi's Girl Trapz series. All bangers all the time, plus the usual onslaught of edits and exclusives. Reworked from the original Diplo & Friends broadcast for even more fire. Free download and full tracklist provided.
Another epic mix of electro bangers, this time courtesy dope dudes 8-Bit Tits. Includes forthcoming fire from themselves and an electrifying list of the best belters from the last year plus. Also up for free download, with tracklist available upon request.
Turbo's top man Tiga takes us for a ride with his first set of the year. Live from Melbourne's Piknic Electronik, this two hour extravaganza runs through some of his classic like "Bugatti" and "Mind Dimension" as well as a handful of new cuts, including the forthcoming Tiga/Kölsch collab.
Almost at throwback level, considering it looks back at 2017's "choice edits and reworks," many of which take on disco classics. This is the sixth year in a row Greg Wilson had made such a list and I don't think I'm wrong to say that, with disco seemingly on the upswing, it's the best 20 yet. Also includes a blog post from the man himself delving further into the year that was.
An obvious contrast to Benzi's Girl Trapz series. All bangers all the time, plus the usual onslaught of edits and exclusives. Reworked from the original Diplo & Friends broadcast for even more fire. Free download and full tracklist provided.
Another epic mix of electro bangers, this time courtesy dope dudes 8-Bit Tits. Includes forthcoming fire from themselves and an electrifying list of the best belters from the last year plus. Also up for free download, with tracklist available upon request.
Turbo's top man Tiga takes us for a ride with his first set of the year. Live from Melbourne's Piknic Electronik, this two hour extravaganza runs through some of his classic like "Bugatti" and "Mind Dimension" as well as a handful of new cuts, including the forthcoming Tiga/Kölsch collab.
Almost at throwback level, considering it looks back at 2017's "choice edits and reworks," many of which take on disco classics. This is the sixth year in a row Greg Wilson had made such a list and I don't think I'm wrong to say that, with disco seemingly on the upswing, it's the best 20 yet. Also includes a blog post from the man himself delving further into the year that was.
Friday, December 01, 2017
Benzi - Girl Trapz 13
King Benzi is back with the lucky 13th edition of his famed Girl Trapz mix series. Of course it's got the usual "rare edits and world premieres" that it's become known for, but it's just as much about Benzi's rapid fire mixing style and incredible eclectic collection of tracks. There's R. Kelly, Spice Girls and Lil Pump, in the first three tracks alone. There's also regulars San Holo, What So Not and Ookay, who premieres his track "Cool" near the end. This nearly 50 minutes of mayhem once again establishes Benzi as the preeminent purveyor of all things future bass and trap, managing to maintain freshness with familiarity. Download the mix from Dropbox here, find tracklist here and follow Benzi below.FOLLOW BENZI: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
Labels:
Benzi,
Free Download,
Girl Trapz,
Lil Pump,
Mixtape,
Ookay,
R. Kelly,
San Holo,
Spice Girls,
What So Not
Monday, September 18, 2017
Wuki & Benzi - We Like To Fuck That Shit
Twerk titans Wuki and Benzi have teamed up to bring you a wild, brain battering bootleg. Courtesy Wuki's creatively titled Wukileaks secondary account, "We Like To Fuck That Shit" pits "We Like To Party!" with "Club Action." After the opening booty bounce the Vengabus rolls up and all kinds of madness ensues. As much as that vengabeat might have you searching for the skip button, hold off and you'll be rewarded when Wiwek and FlipN'Gawd make an appearance. Maybe it's not the most musically enlightening piece, but there's no questioning the quality of this club edit/DJ tool. As with all the Wukileaks, "We Like To Fuck That Shit" is available for free download. Get it via ToneDen here.FOLLOW WUKI: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
FOLLOW BENZI: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
FOLLOW BENZI: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
Thursday, July 20, 2017
Benzi - Get Right Radio: Summer Edition 2017
Benzi is back with his annual Get Right Radio mix. As usual it's jam packed with the most new, and previously unearthed gems. Of the 40 tracks in less than 56 minutes, there's at least two dozen remixes, edits, and mashups, four of which he had his hands on. Benzi always delivers bootleg bliss and this is no different. Expect to be spinning this mix all summer long (download via dropbox).
Stream above and view tracklist below. Note remixes of TLC, Justin Timberlake, Tears For Fears, Busta Rhymes, and Childish Gambino. Plus: Party Pupils "Patient" and eSenTRIK's "Unforgettable" remix.
Thursday, June 01, 2017
Interview with DeMiggs
Yesterday, you got a glimpse of the first in a long line of new episodes of My Mixtape, with a clip of my conversation with DJ and ITZSOWEEZEE co-founder, DeMiggs. Before his episode hits the Radio Humber airwaves tomorrow at 11 PM EDT, you may want to check out our full conversation (below).
Topics include: how the collective of ITZSOWEEZEE came to be, co-signs from A$AP Rocky, Benzi and others, the blending of Hip Hop and EDM, pop artists using EDM producers on their albums, how he got into DJing, the necessity to move forward and adapt, his set for My Mixtape and what the future holds for him and ITZSOWEEZEE.
Check out My Mixtape featuring DeMiggs, here.
FOLLOW DEMIGGS: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
Topics include: how the collective of ITZSOWEEZEE came to be, co-signs from A$AP Rocky, Benzi and others, the blending of Hip Hop and EDM, pop artists using EDM producers on their albums, how he got into DJing, the necessity to move forward and adapt, his set for My Mixtape and what the future holds for him and ITZSOWEEZEE.
Check out My Mixtape featuring DeMiggs, here.
FOLLOW DEMIGGS: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
Saturday, May 27, 2017
STFU on Diplo and Friends
I've been supporting Zak and Alex (aka STFU) both on this blog and on Bump In The Hump, and while a play on my radio show is something, it does not compare to getting a guest mix on Diplo and Friends. The dynamic duo have just uploaded their April mix to their soundcloud for streaming anytime.
It's no wonder Get Right Records (who STFU's "Find That Girl" was released under) reposted and led me to the mix, because STFU is delivering some of the most twerk worthy music available at the moment. Of course Get Right Records is headed by Benzi, who is half of TWRK, and if you're like me, you've been waiting for another one of their incredible, exclusive-laden mixes, STFU have filled that void.
According to 1001 Tracklists, they've filled their hour slot with a mind-blowing 54 tracks. This shows off not just their incredible taste, with tracks ranging from Boombox Cartel to Bruno Mars, but to jam all that action in that span shows serious skill in mixing. While we could be satisfied to stare in awe of the above, the best part of this mix is the insight into all of the productions Zak and Alex currently have in their collection. An astounding 31/54 tracks are credited to STFU. Whether it's one of their killer crafted mashups, exclusive remixes, forthcoming originals or even their cover of "Closer," there's no doubt this is their coming out party.
Soon enough you won't be able to go to any club or listen to any mix without having STFU slap you in the face. I for one know I'll be coming back to this mix with frequency, at least until more of their originals are released, but even after to bask in their brilliant and blazing fast mixing skills.
FOLLOW STFU: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
According to 1001 Tracklists, they've filled their hour slot with a mind-blowing 54 tracks. This shows off not just their incredible taste, with tracks ranging from Boombox Cartel to Bruno Mars, but to jam all that action in that span shows serious skill in mixing. While we could be satisfied to stare in awe of the above, the best part of this mix is the insight into all of the productions Zak and Alex currently have in their collection. An astounding 31/54 tracks are credited to STFU. Whether it's one of their killer crafted mashups, exclusive remixes, forthcoming originals or even their cover of "Closer," there's no doubt this is their coming out party.
Soon enough you won't be able to go to any club or listen to any mix without having STFU slap you in the face. I for one know I'll be coming back to this mix with frequency, at least until more of their originals are released, but even after to bask in their brilliant and blazing fast mixing skills.
FOLLOW STFU: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
Labels:
Benzi,
Boombox Cartel,
Bruno Mars,
Bump In The Hump,
Diplo & Friends,
Get Right Records,
Mixtape,
STFU,
TWRK
Monday, May 15, 2017
French Montana x Swae Lee - Unforgettable (esentrik remix)
esentrik, half of TWRK, has just dropped a brilliant future bass remix of French Montana and Swae Lee's "Unforgettable." Known for his remixing ability, particularly his exceptional INOJ "Love You Down" remix, his careful combination of hip hop, RnB and trap makes for some of the most enjoyable and infectious revisions. That's exactly the case for this track, that while boasting a couple big names was all but "Unforgettable." He's made it a little more groovy, ramping up the bassline, adding a more deliberate and involving rhythm that will at worst have your toes tapping. The future bass wobbles and deep tuned dives in the 'drop' all but demand dancing along.
It's clear why esentrik and Benzi work together so well, remixes like this lend themselves perfectly to Girl Trapz and although its not as wonky as most TWRK tunes, you can certainly hear its influence. Oddly enough Benzi used Bad Royale's remix of "Unforgettable" in his latest Girl Trapz mix, this past weekend. Regardless you can get esentrik's version as a free download via click.dj here. FOLLOW ESENTRIK: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
It's clear why esentrik and Benzi work together so well, remixes like this lend themselves perfectly to Girl Trapz and although its not as wonky as most TWRK tunes, you can certainly hear its influence. Oddly enough Benzi used Bad Royale's remix of "Unforgettable" in his latest Girl Trapz mix, this past weekend. Regardless you can get esentrik's version as a free download via click.dj here. FOLLOW ESENTRIK: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
Labels:
Bad Royale,
Benzi,
eSenTRIK,
Free Download,
French Montana,
Girl Trapz,
INOJ,
Swae Lee,
TWRK,
Unforgettable
Sunday, April 02, 2017
KUGA & RTYBTZ - Control
This past Friday, Get Right Records bid adieu to March by dropping brilliant future bass track, "Control." Backed by Benzi you had to know it was going to be a quality cut and not just another run of the mill release. In fact, just yesterday a Twitter account @skysooshi called Benzi's Girl Trapz series (of which both KUGA and RTYBTZ are a part) "an ark of hope in a flood of crappy futurebass." And for me this is exactly what I like about Girl Trapz. KUGA and RTYBTZ have crafted a shiny, anthemic groove with uber cute vocals that play perfectly with the brilliant bounding bass in the drop. And while the whole track boasts skillful sound design, what makes "Control" a truly great production are the little punctuating effects in the drop (water droplets, camera shutters, etc). No news yet on a Girl Trapz 12, but you can bet this one makes an appearance on that "ark of hope." Enjoy it now below!
FOLLOW KUGA: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
FOLLOW RTYBTZ:FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
FOLLOW RTYBTZ:
Tuesday, December 06, 2016
2017 Grammy Nominations
Every year, when The Grammy nominations come out, I debate whether a post about them is worth my time, or whether I'll just be promoting the garbage pop that does not need, nor deserve, any more promotion. I eventually come to the conclusion that there are enough deserving artists nominated to warrant a post. So here I go, I'll list the nominees from each category relevant to this blog, give my two cents, then write in my own nomination. I'll also place my bets on who should win from those nominations, and who I think will actually win, but I'm almost always wrong, cause you know, I'm obviously not on the same level as those in charge of the Grammys. See last year's predictions post.
Song Of The Year
Song Of The Year
- Beyonce - Formation
- Adele - Hello
- Mike Posner - I Took A Pill In Ibiza
- Justin Bieber - Love Yourself
- Lukas Graham - 7 Years
Why is "I Took A Pill In Ibiza" on this list? Isn't it too old to be included? I definitely remember Benzi playing it in his Get Right Radio 2015 mix. Anyway, it'd be hard to argue with any of these tracks being nominated for this category. Must say I'm not sure I've ever heard "7 Years," but there's always at least one track per category that I'm clueless about.
Who Should Win: Formation
Who Will Win: Hello
My Write In Nomination: Flume - Never Be Like You
Best New Artist
- Anderson .Paak
- Chance The Rapper
- Maren Morris
- The Chainsmokers
- Kelsea Ballerini
What constitutes a new artist? While I'm not sure who Morris or Ballerini are, the other three have been on my radar for at least at least two years. This is a group of heavy hitters, and perhaps one of the best/most deserving list of nominees, despite my disdain for anything Chainsmokers. But that's why this is the Grammys, and that's why I write a blog about underappreciated art, not pop refuse.
Who Should Win: Anderson .Paak
Who Will Win: The Chainsmokers
My Write In Nomination: Flume
Best Pop Duo/Group Performance
- The Chainsmokers - Closer (ft. Halsey)
- Lukas Graham - 7 Years
- Rihanna - Work (ft. Drake)
- Sia - Cheap Thrills (ft. Sean Paul)
- Twenty One Pilots - Stressed Out
Best? This is really the best? Or most poppy... How about we call a spade a spade? I've never heard a track more widely hated than "Closer" and "Work," what's with all the mumbling? I can at least stomach, and understand its appeal. No question Sia had a massive year, and I like Sean Paul so I get that.
Who Should Win: Cheap Thrills
Who Will Win: Closer
My Write In Nomination: Flume - Never Be Like You
Best Dance Recording
- Bob Moses - Tearing Me Up
- The Chainsmokers - Don't Let Me Down (ft. Daya)
- Flume - Never Be Like You (ft. Kai)
- Riton - Rinse & Repeat (ft. Kah-Lo)
- Sofi Tukker - Drinkee
Okay, we're really starting to get into the good stuff here. I've got huge love for Bob Moses, and their nomination is perhaps the best thing the Grammys did with this years nomination. Again, with the Chainsmokers though, yet another track that I just don't get; it's rather awful, but not as bad as "Closer." Here's where I'll also address the reasoning behind Flume being my write in for each of the previous categories. I feel Flume is perfectly suited for music award shows, specifically the Grammys. His productions are poppy and easily accessible, yet far from mindless drivel. His near clean sweep of the ARIA Music Awards were well deserved, as Skin is a true work of art. Rounding out the category I'm blown away by the last two nominees, for different reasons. I absolutely love "Rinse & Repeat," but had never heard Drinkee until today.
Who Should Win: Rinse & Repeat
Who Will Win: Never Be Like You
My Write In Nomination: Pusher - Clear (ft. Mothica)
Best Dance/Electronic Album
Who Should Win: Rinse & Repeat
Who Will Win: Never Be Like You
My Write In Nomination: Pusher - Clear (ft. Mothica)
Best Dance/Electronic Album
- Flume - Skin
- Jean-Michel Jarre - Electronica 1: The Time Machine
- Tycho - Epoch
- Underworld - Barbara Barbara, We Face A Shining Future
- Louie Vega - Louie Vega Starring... XXVIII
Why is this category dance/electronic while the above is only dance? The Grammys usually do a good job with the album category, and this year is no exception. That is to say there's usually one odd ball, and it certainly seems to be Louie Vega. There's no questioning Flume's inclusion here, nor the triumphant return of Jean-Michel Jarre and Underworld, but it seems like the Grammys are leaning a little bit too hard on prior accomplishments and name recognition. Apart from the inclusion of Bob Moses above, Tycho's appearance in this category is the Grammys greatest success.
Who Should Win: Tycho
Who Will Win: Flume
My Write In Nomination: Machinedrum - Human Energy
Best Remixed Recording
- Soul Pacific - Cali Coast (Psionics Remix)
- The Silver Lake Chorus - Heavy Star Movin' (staRo Remix)
- Paul McCartney & Wings - Nineteen Hundred Eighty-Five (Timo Maas & James Teej Remix)
- Ry X - Only (Kaskade x Lipless Remix)
- Bob Moses - Tearing Me Up (RAC Remix)
- The Chemical Brothers - Wide Open (Joe Goddard Remix)
This category is almost always way out there. Sometimes it's full of popular mixes and other times it's like this, littered with mixes and artists I've never heard of. Once again we see the Grammys going for name recognition, with the obligatory inclusion of Kaskade and RAC. The Paul McCartney track is really weird, seems like voters just went "Oh that guy was from The Beatles, he can do not wrong," WRONG! The Psionics remix has 159 views on soundcloud, seriously. SERIOUSLY, what is up with this category? At least Bob Moses, Chemical Brothers and Joe Goddard got nods, but I'm basically at a loss for this one.
Who Should Win: Joe Goddard
Who Will Win: RAC
My Write In Nomination: Manila Killa - All That's Left (The M Machine Remix)
Producer Of The Year, Non-Classical
- Benny Blanco
- Greg Kurstin
- Max Martin
- Nineteen85
- Ricky Reed
This is always a funny category for me, because it's always a bunch of names basically nobody knows, with the exception of Diplo, who for some reason was not nominated this year, despite being a perennial contender. So now, I'll give a little backstory for each unknown. Blanco's credits this year include "Love Yourself," "Cold Water" among various productions for Vance Joy, Selena Gomez and Passion Pit. Kurstin was responsible for many Adele, Sia, Ellie Goulding, and Tegan & Sara tracks, including "Hello" and "Cheap Thrills." Max Martin may even be more prolific than Kurstin, authoring tracks from Starboy, and Dangerous Woman, as well as the likes of "Can't Feel My Face," "Hands To Myself," "Love Me Like You Do," "Into You" and "Can't Stop The Feeling!" Nineteen85 is best known for his work with Drake, producing "One Dance," "Hotline Bling," and DJ Khaled's "For Free" with of course, Drake. Ricky Reed's credits include productions for Meghan Trainor, Robin Thicke and Twenty One Pilots.
Who Should Win: Max Martin
Who Will Win: Greg Kurstin
My Write In Nomination: Shaun Frank
Winners will be announced February 12th on CBS, but most of these categories will be announced earlier in the day with little to no fanfare, because as is likely obvious by now, The Grammys still have disdain for electronic music and clearly do not consider it that highly. But the question then is, do electronic music fans even care about the Grammys? And therefore does it matter what they do?
Benzi - Girl Trapz 10
Benzi's prolific Girl Trapz series has reached a massive milestone, airing the 10th installment on Diplo & Friends earlier in November. Now the extended version is online for streaming and free download.
It doesn't take very long for this 40 track mix to get you fired up, kicking things into high gear with one of Benzi's trademark edits, reworking RL Grime, Skrillex and What So Not's massive collab "Waiting" geniously for Girl Trapz. All told, there are four such edits to go along with other exclusive and unreleased tracks from the likes of Vincent, STFU, Doobious, Slumberjack, and TWRK partner, eSenTRIK. This is all in line with a typical Benzi mix, his connections are seemingly endless; producers clamour to get the Benzi stamp of approval. There are very few DJs that can boast the level of tastemaking and flawless mix quality that has made Benzi one of the most trusted names in the game. His ear is always on point, correctly identifying the next big thing before it breaks into mainstream consciousness. Grab the free download and find out which track grabs you, via the tracklist below.
FOLLOW BENZI: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
FOLLOW BENZI: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
Labels:
Benzi,
Diplo & Friends,
Doobious,
eSenTRIK,
Free Download,
Mixtape,
RL Grime,
Skrillex,
Slumberjack,
STFU,
TWRK,
Vincent,
What So Not
Tuesday, July 19, 2016
Bump In The Hump Sneak Peek: The Return of Crystal Castles & STFU "Find That Girl"
Despite ongoing frustrations with my computer, which has now been completely wiped thanks to Asus (a company I urge everyone to avoid), the world of music never stops. The beauty of Bump In The Hump and its focus on new music, makes it possible for me to simply pick up where I left off. Since I sent my computer away last week, there's been a seemingly unprecedented onslaught of new music. And as always, I like to give you a little taste of what our great Canadian producers have been brewing, and boy have they been brewing. We're looking at a week capped with MSTRKRFT's new album, Operator, dropping Friday, joining new Pusher, A-Trak, Strider White, Tristam, Blu J, Black Tiger Sex Machine, and yes even more. Part of the proverbial 'more' is two very different tracks, one from established Canadian legends Crystal Castles and the second, from fast rising stars STFU.Ethan Kath, the producer behind Crystal Castles has a new front woman, in Edith Frances, and their first album as a duo, Amnesty (I), is set to be released August 19th. This week you'll hear their latest addition to that album, "Char." Hear it in its entirety, and get lost its dark abyss, on youtube, here.Originally aired on Benzi's ninth installment of his Girl Trapz series, we've now got the full length version of their future bass anthem. Furthering my claim that Zak and Alex are fast rising stars, they've dropped a second track in less than a week, a remix of Leaf's "Money." Expect big things from them as the both the world and the wheels of steel continue to turn.
I've got a number of exclusives on the way into my inbox as I write this, and can safely say that this week's episode of Bump In The Hump is one for the record books. Do not miss out on this absolutely massive hour of entirely new Canadian electronic music, airing live Wednesday from 6-7 on Radio Humber, rebroadcast Friday 11-midnight, and as always streamable on this very blog.
I've got a number of exclusives on the way into my inbox as I write this, and can safely say that this week's episode of Bump In The Hump is one for the record books. Do not miss out on this absolutely massive hour of entirely new Canadian electronic music, airing live Wednesday from 6-7 on Radio Humber, rebroadcast Friday 11-midnight, and as always streamable on this very blog.
Labels:
A-Trak,
Benzi,
Black Tiger Sex Machine,
Blu J,
Bump In The Hump,
Crystal Castles,
Girl Trapz,
Leaf,
MSTRKRFT,
Pusher,
Radio Humber,
Sneak Peek,
STFU,
Strider White,
Tristam
Tuesday, January 05, 2016
Benzi - Get Right Radio 2015
When Benzi tweeted the following, back in the beginning of December, I've been both obsessed with nightcore and on hype overload waiting for his last mixtape of the year to drop. Originally supposed to see it's release on December 30th, the roadblock that is soundcloud stopped that plan from unfolding.
newsflash 💥 GET RIGHT RADIO 2015 is gonna be 60min of Nightcore. starting off with last song on TWRK VOL7. https://t.co/pXB6Dq68JN @fanxfic
— BENZI (@benzi) December 11, 2015
Here we are not quite a week after its intended release and Benzi has successfully flexed his significant clout with labels and has finally got the mix clear of flags and live for the world to appreciate.There's no doubt that Benzi is one of the most triumphant and prolific DJs and true master of the mixtape when you consider the ridiculous amount of work the guy does. Both his Girl Trapz and Get Right Radio series have achieved worldwide acclaim. There's no producer who wouldn't benefit from having their music showcased in the finely crafted and produced mixes. But that's not all that make Benzi such a force in the world of electronic music, and verily, music in general. He's half of well known duo TWRK, with eSenTRIK, who have found massive success with both their original and remix productions but their epic and incomparable TWRK mix series, originally airing on Diplo & Friends. Finally, and perhaps Benzi's largest contribution to world of music comes from his seemingly infinite connections in the industry compiling perhaps the greatest DJ catalog, his Live DJ Service. With the number of exclusives and unreleased content in his latest, 58 track, contribution to the world, Benzi has once again proved his production prowess and DJ dominance. Go ahead and Get Right with some of the best of musics from 2015 and hopefully some of those exclusives see releases in 2016. Tracklist below.
Labels:
Benzi,
Diplo & Friends,
eSenTRIK,
Fan Fiction,
Free Download,
Get Right Radio,
Girl Trapz,
Mixtape,
Nightcore,
TWRK
Saturday, November 21, 2015
Best Mixes Of 2015
One of my favourite things about electronic music is the prominence of mixes and the curating that comes along with being a DJ. There are so many different kinds of mixes, some that are heavily pre-produced and others that are created organically, on the spot, both are valuable and can serve different purposes at different times. I love listening to them any time I'm doing anything, whether it be at working, working out, travelling, playing video games, washing the dishes or doing yard work. Over the years I've become a fan of a variety of different programs, podcasts, annual festival promo mixes or just whatever live set I can find. After the break, I'll be posting a large number of my favourite mixes from a variety of places. But to whet your appetite, check out this one from Alison Wonderland at The Mixmag Lab in Los Angeles.
Her set at the Hoxton was definitely one of the best I saw all year, the most energetic and intense DJing, that's for sure. I always feel like the more into the music the DJ is the more the crowd gets into it, Alison get top marks for this. Always really appreciate DJs not sticking to one genre or sound, especially when more than an hour long.
Labels:
A-Trak,
Alison Wonderland,
Benzi,
Boy 8-Bit,
Dillon Francis,
Diplo,
DJ Mustard,
Flume,
Free Download,
Mixtape,
Nero,
NGHTMRE,
Nina Las Vegas,
Porter Robinson,
Pusher,
Rezz,
RL Grime,
Ryan Hemsworth,
Rytmeklubben
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