Enlightened Listening for May 7

It's the first Friday of the month, and that means we're once again moving our weekly new music playlist, Enlightened Listening, to Bandcamp. As with last month's Bandcamp Friday, I've put the playlist on BNDCMPR here to streamline your listening experience. Again, I've opted to keep the releases in alphabetical order by artist name as this incredibly diverse compilation is nearly impossible to mix smoothly.

The nine-release, sixty-nine track (at the moment) compilation opens with a pre-order of A. G. Cook's massive LP. While there are forthcoming remixes from Boys Noize, GRRL and Baauer, it already features the likes of umru, Kai Whiston and DJ Warlord. Following that is the live recording of Austra's solo acoustic performance of HiRUNDiN. Rounding out the first three releases is Boys Noize's Defected follow-up to "Mvinline."

The middle third of this week's Enlightened Listening features a trio of raucous releases, starting with six slappers from Brodinski & Modulaw. Even wilder, Chippy Nonstop and dj genderfluid's self-titled LP gets cheeky with all kinds of rave energy. Headed further hardcore and break-driven, India Jordan's Watch Out! is simply wicked.

Finally, we head into the final three releases with the IDM journey through sound and consciousness that is Little Snake's lengthy titled LP, A Fragmented Love Story, Written By The Infinite Helix Architect. Another release that's likely to leave you doing double-takes is LUXXURY's Edits Vol. 7, which features a couple handfuls of fabulous disco, synthpop edits of classics from The Rolling Stones, Black Box, Alexander Robotnik and more. Finally, our lone freebie, a treat for Diablo II fans in Priori's DnB twist on the "Tristram Theme."

Find each release linked individually below, note ^ for pre-order and * for free download, and stream the full playlist via BNDCMPR here.

A. G. Cook - Apple vs. 7G (Silver Edition)^

Austra - I Feel You Everywhere

Boys Noize - All I Want (ft. Jake Shears)

Brodinski & Modulaw - Edgewater

Chippy Nonstop & dj genderfluid - Chippy Nonstop & dj genderfluid

India Jordan - Watch Out!

Little Snake - A Fragmented Love Story, Written By The Infinite Helix Architect

LUXXURY - EDITS VOL. 7

Matt Uelmen - Tristram Theme (Priori Edit)*

Enlightened Listening for March 19

Another Friday means it's time for another Enlightened Listening. This week's edition clocks in at just under four hours, running 55 tracks deep. Centred around albums from Dezza and OVERWERK, there's a trio of utterly infectious cuts from Jacques Greene, Todd Edwards and Folamour, as well as BIJOU's banging return to Night Bass (my favourite EP there in many months). Staying with the heavy stuff, the final four releases in the playlist, while diverse, each overflow with energy and bristle with bass. Returning to the top, the playlist opens with three-way collab "Ride Or Die," which I can almost guarantee will appear across year-end best-of lists. Boys Noize and Chily Gonzales is a potent pairing in itself, while Kelsey Lu's vocals are simply sublime. Finally, filling in the gaps are a fistful of remixes, including an immersive epic from Volen Sentir, and a trio of EPs from EMBRZ, HNTR and Afterlife. Stream the playlist, ordered for maximum flow, below and find each individual release at the bottom.

Boys Noize & Kelsey Lu - Ride Or Die (ft. Chilly Gonzales)

Japanese Television - III (Remixed)

Lime - Babe, We're Gonna Love Tonight (Jacques Greene Remix)

Todd Edwards - The Chant

Folamour - The Journey (ft. Zeke Manyika)

Lost Desert & Hermanez - Jinx (Volen Sentir Pure Magic Healing)

EMBRZ - Together Till It Ends

Dezza - 44° North, 63° West

OVERWERK - Vessel

Yotto & Stephan Jolk - New Era

HNTR - Mind Games

BIJOU - 187 Proof

Eleganto - Voltage Control

plusol - Oracle

Baauer & Omega Sapien - DDOKBOKKI

Ivy Lab - Suzuki / Paradise Pistol

Enlightened Listening for August 21

Yet another week has come and gone and what a legend-laced edition of Enlightened Listening it left for us. Kölsch, Four Tet, Cerrone, Frankie Knuckles, Boys Noize, Skream, Keys N Krates, Netsky and DJ Zinc all released new tracks. Yes, you read that right; basically everything in this week's wrap up is from a legend. And even those whose names don't quite carry the same weight have delivered laudable productions. While I obviously recommend each release included in the playlist below, I'd be remiss if I didn't specifically shout out the awesome ATTLAS remix package, which gives four equally inspired takes on "Half Light." Dig into this week's Enlightened Listening below and have a great weekend!

Anderholm - Delirious

Kölsch - While Waiting For Something To Care About / Now Here No Where

Tame Impala - Is It True (Four Tet Remix)

ATTLAS ft. Alisa Xayalith - Half Light (Remixes)

Duke Dumont ft. RY X - Let Me Go (Cerrone Remix)

Frankie Knuckles - Carefree (I Am A Star)

Frustra - Southbank

Willaris K. ft. WaveIQ - Chapel (Boys Noize Remix)

Franc Moody - Flesh And Blood (Skream Lockdown Autonomic Remix)

Keys N Krates - Double Dutch

Netsky - Mixed Emotions (ft. Montell2099)

DJ Zinc - Out Of Control (ft. Kudu Blue)

The Magician - Magic Tape 97

Finally, the first new edition of the vaunted Magic Tape mix series since COVID-19 captured the world's attention in early March. The Magician is back with an hour made up almost exclusively of new and forthcoming material.

Opening up this new set is the simply sensational Chemical Brothers cut "Catch Me I'm Falling" from No Geography. It is followed by a beautiful, yet unidentified scintillating synth number which has an undeniably familiar feel, yet I can't quite put my finger on who either the vocalist or producer is. As the mix continues to pick up steam we get brand new and forthcoming releases from Mohawk & The Kid and Myd (respectively) before The Magician's "You And Me" appears to receive a sublime, striding remix from another yet unidentified source.

This same formula of new followed by forthcoming tunes is replicated as Boys Noize's Defected affair "Mvinline" is followed by a trio of yet unreleased offerings from Theo Kottis and Mozambo, with the former absolutely rocking resplendent. In terms of overall trajectory this is where the mix really peaks as both Tchami's "Buenos Aires" and Alex Preston & Rion S' "Love Somebody" deliver incredibly infectious energy. Finally, The Magician crafts a killer come-down with Moullinex's remix of Poolside "Sunrise Strategies" and Justice's remix of Frank Ocean "Dear April." Find the 'full' tracklist as identified by the prolific Zinderlong at 1001tracklists here and enjoy the mix in its entirety below.

The Magician · Magic Tape 97

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Enlightened Listening for May 29

Despite taking the week off both Bump In The Hump and blogging, there's been so much fantastic music released I just had to put together a massive edition of Enlightened Listening. However the weather is calling me back outside so I won't be doing a comprehensive breakdown of the 24 releases, but rather I'll simply suggest a scroll through the playlist which is chock full of all kinds of house along with a sprinkling of fat funk, several sensational remixes and EPs, and a couple epic albums to cap it all off. Personal highlights include Jayda G, Tensnake's remix of Duke Dumont, Andhim's remix of Agoria, both sides of the Solee/Parquet Recordings EP, the whole of the On The Air EP, and Henry Saiz's "Iridescent." Dig into the full playlist below, enjoy your weekend and be sure to stay safe/sane!

Hot Tub & Ben Fox - Awakening

Jayda G - Both Of Us

The Brothers Macklovitch - Give Love To Get Some (ft. Leven Kali)

Boys Noize - Mvinline

Duke Dumont ft. Say Lou Lou - The Nightcrawler (Tensnake Remix)

Eelke Kleijn - The Hierophant

Dominik Eulberg - Neuntöter (Adana Twins Funk Remix)

Chicken Lips - Goldenlips

Moonrunner83 - Lovers In A Dangerous Time

Dua Lipa - Break My Heart (Joris Voorn Remix)

Agoria ft. Blasé - 3 Letters (Andhim Remix)

Moon Boots - W.T.F. (Tinlicker Remix)

Solee - Planet Earth | March Of The Giants

Tchami - Born Again / Buenos Aires

Jay Robinson - Control

BARILAN - Resistance

Yyvng - Rock'n'Roll

DJ Q, Jamie Duggan & Booda - Sirens

End In Tears - On The Air

Henry Saiz - Appreciation

Khåen - The Quiet Life

BAILE & Nuage - Memory Pattern

Franky Wah - The Revival, Vol. 1

Yotam Avni - Was Here

Enlightened Listening for May 1

After the massive success that was Bandcamp's first Friday foray into forgoing their cut of revenue, the popular online music outlet is turning the trick again. As I did last month this week's Enlightened Listening is again hosted on Bandcamp, but with the lack of a playlist creator, you'll have to scroll through the alphabetized list below. I've included brief descriptions, but really the music should speak for itself. Be sure to support the artists if you enjoy. If it's pay what you want, a follow or share is the least you can do. Have a great weekend!

Austra - HiRUDiN
So often a stunning combination of spine-tingling vocals and moving musical beds. She doesn't release often, but when she does it's always incredibly well done. Standout tracks: "Anywayz," "Risk It" and "I Am Not Waiting."

Bakongo - Bopster / Anytime
The kind of drum dominated tracks we've come to expect from Roska Kicks & Snares. Incredibly crisp productions all around, but it's the glow of "Anytime" that makes it my favourite of the two.

Boys Noize - STRICTLY BVNKER
Twitch live analog sessions from Boys Noize's 'BVNKER'. Often dirty and distorted, these tracks are fire and scream chaos. And that's the brilliance of Boys Noize, he cultivates that chaos and somehow culls it into a singular theme. My favourite: "Moonsrad."

Calibre - Shelflife Six
13 track only ever heard in his sets, this album spans 20 years and showcases the ridiculous quality and lifespan of Calibre. One of the best examples of the breadth of musicality at the heart of DnB. Standout tracks: "Things Like This," "Crazy For You" and "Be Beautiful."

Daktyl - Ozymandias Beat Tape 1
Simply one of my favourite artists when it comes to creating soundscapes. Uber cool and equally unique, Daktyl's productions are always inspired and more than that, his musical ability is always front and center. One of the better beat tapes you'll ever come across. Standout tracks: "A Slow Walk," "IQ" and "Warning Signs."

East Avenue - Inner City Dubs Vol. 8
Two deep, funky jungle/garage tracks that ooze with groove. Both are sure to bring the dance-floor to life, but I'm more partial to the gooey nature of "My Future."

Good Room - 'Alone Together' Good Room Relief Compilation
A diverse compilation ranging from disco to techno with the likes of Martyn, Baltra, The Juan MacLean and Fort Romeau. There's wicked rollers, balmy bass-heavy bangers and even a slow burning jam or two. Standout tracks: "Trip Into The Good Room," "Diamond Head" and "Why Want."

Heller & Farley Project - Ultra Flava (Remixes)
Defected really know how to tease, I've been waiting for the David Penn remix for a while and it's finally here. It features his incredible work on the keys and just feels so fabulous. The Darius Syrossian mix is nothing to scoff at either with its masterful mix of atmosphere and power.

Ital Tek - Outland
An engrossing and adventurous album that is sure to transport its listeners to incredible new worlds. At times utterly atmospheric, others truly turnt and twisted. An exceedingly adept electronic offering that largely evades the foreign feel of electronics. Standout tracks: "Open Heart," "Deadhead" and "Oblivion Theme."

Leonce - Nothing To Declare
Something about Leonce's productions, dating back to Insurgency, screams godly to me. Equally almighty, this new EP delivers the dope drum work I expected alongside unholy atmosphere and killer club appeal. Absolutely love "Hyperion."

Plastician - Deep In The Drives
A lush collection of deep dub from the legend. The moods and scenes in these tracks are immaculate and moving. They're largely chill and laidback, but there's a couple sick cuts as well. Standouts: "Alone Time," "Gully" and "Jackal Riddim."

plusol - Lineage
I've been touting this through its singles and I'm glad it came out today so I could include it in this list. It features plusol's unique combination of electronic and organic instrumentation, alongside his cinematic approach that is both beautiful and banging. Listen all the way through, but if you need one selling point, look no further than the fabulous finale "Limitbreaker."

R&S Records - In Order To Care
A massive compilation with the likes of Fracture, Or:la and Special Request offering up sensational singles. Wildly varied through its 43 tracks, but all worthy of the R&S Records stamp. All proceeds go to PPE for the NHS, only further making the £10 price tag, for so many tracks, even more of a steal.

Rohaan - Bleach
The meteoric rise of Rohaan continues and rightfully so as Bleach is brilliant. Mat Zo and Tek Genesis are killer cosigns, just as the tracks here are capable of killing with their heart palpitating qualities.

Too Slow To Disco - Yacht Disco Edits
Another massive compilation, this time featuring the likes of LeBRON, Air Zaire and Yuksek. These edits all share the same sublime thread of gorgeous disco and get off to an incredible start with the divine "Waiting," my favourite of the bunch. Other standouts include: "Hold Tight" and "Right On Time."

Unknown Mobile - Leafy Edits Vol. 1
I'm partial to all of Unknown Mobile's edits so no surprise he's on this list. Four fun and often energized cuts here. "Paradise" is just that, while my other favourite "Underground" is shimmering and gorgeous.

Party Central Transmission w/ Kane West

Montreal mainstays, the Sontag brothers have been busy in conversation lately. Of course Tiga's acclaimed podcast First/Last Party On Earth is back, with big names Four Tet and Boys Noize kicking off its sophomore season. The second Sontag, Thomas Von Party, has seemingly relaunched his Party Central Transmission series, which was originally meant to be only music and no talk. However just over a year after the lone episode in said format, Von Party has tapped his DJ, Move Your Body collaborator Gus Lobban, aka Kane West, for a conversation.

A combo mix/interview, the two chat about their first interactions, Kane's conspicuous remix of "Let's Go Dancing," the DMT trip that led to "Yes, Exactly," Kane's work with Kero Kero Bonito and PC Music as well as his concept of kitsch in music, and finally, their thoughts about the consequences of COVID-19 on streaming, the entertainment industry and the future at large. While the music can be a bit of a distraction at times, this nearly 40 minute transmission is chock full of enlightening nuggets.FOLLOW THOMAS VON PARTY: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
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Top 100 Tracks Of 2019: 50-26

Continuation of the list started Monday: 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 Spotify here.

#50: Haywyre - Let Me Hear That
The most funky track on this list and I'll say there's a few more really good ones on the way. Haywyre had a hell of a year and there could've been a couple other cuts in this place, but I think I fell for this one most hard because of its immediacy and its beyond beautiful back half. Oh and seeing Haywyre play it live is a trip (watch it here). It really doesn't get much cooler than this one.

#49: Murlo - Fauna
The middle Murlo child in this list. Like "End Of The Road" earlier, I'm a bit at a loss with this one. It's got a lot of the same energy and cinematic quality to its drum delivery. However this one seems to tickle me more. I don't think you can listen to it without smiling, it's just so effusive in its energy. The way Murlo plays around in its movement is truly magical, like a jungle's plant life all joining together in a dance.

#48: Tennyson - Melonpan
A truly gorgeous, cinematic cut that screams Tennyson. It's unique and magical in its delivery, like an epic cartoon opening sequence. Its opening half is enough to captivate, but its second half will have you in tears, especially the utterly euphoric and triumphant finale. Every time I hear this I'm reminded of the time I saw them live and the fact that I need to do so again.

#47: Sigma - Dilemma
This one really shows how out of touch I am when it comes to turn of the millennium hip hop and R&B, as I just found out this is Kelly Rowland. I was absolutely familiar with the sample but didn't know whose it was. But hey, good music is good music and this is certainly that. Building upon one of the best selling singles of all time, Sigma have really done a great job with this one. I just checked the various remixes of this and none can hold a candle to it. Its energy is intoxicating and it's just so much fun.

#46: The Chemical Brothers - Got To Keep On
It's truly amazing that The Chemical Brothers can continue to make such incredible records. No Geography is great and while I thought about including other cuts this, like "Go Crazy" earlier, is just the perfect exemplar of the album. It's got wicked, raw sounds and pristine beautiful ones too. It's anthemic and full of energy, but nothing beats the sweet release shortly after the 3:40 mark. It's just so satisfying.

#45: Boston Bun - Don't Wanna Dance
Another one of those ones I came across in a Magic Tape, and again it's got some serious sorcery to it. The groove is genius and boy has Boston Bun done a brilliant job building it out. The piano backing lays it all down, but it's nothing without the vociferous vocals or fantastically fat drop with its perfectly placed puntuations. Clean and super strong, I see a lot of staying power in it. Finally, I'd be remiss if I didn't give props to Mighty Mouse's masterful remix.

2020 Grammy Predictions

As you likely know the 2020 Grammy nominations were announced yesterday, and instead of waiting until the day of to make my predictions, I've decided it'd be more fun to get them out of the way, forget about them and then surprise myself with my picks while I have a laugh at the eventual ceremony January 26th. Once again I'm going to do my usual shtick of making predictions for categories I know/care about, and again I'll be doing my 'who should win' and 'who will win' double pick scenario. Check out how I did last year, here, and check back here on the day of as I'll be updating with results.

***Update: Results noted with ✓ or X ***

BEST DANCE RECORDING

Bonobo - Linked
The Chemical Brothers - Got To Keep On
Meduza & The Goodboys - Piece Of Your Heart
Rüfüs Du Sol - Underwater
Skrillex & Boys Noize with Ty Dolla $ign - Midnight Hour

Who Will Win: Skrillex & Boys Noize X
Who Should Win: Rüfüs Du Sol X
Reasoning: Skrillex has never lost when he's been nominated in this category and while I don't think "Midnight Hour" should win, I think the academy will 'play it safe.' However, this one strikes me as the least likely winner of Skrillex's now four nominations. Lately the winners have been more towards the typical dance pop side of things so there's a real possibility of Skrillex being upset by "Piece Of Your Heart." With that in mind, you have to go back more than a decade for something like "Linked" or "Got To Keep On" as a winner, and if it were either of those two The Chemical Brothers strike me as far more likely. All of that said, I give "Underwater" a real shot, and find it the most deserving because of its enrapturing beauty, mystifying vocals and stunning sound design.

BEST DANCE/ELECTRONIC ALBUM

Apparat - LP5
The Chemical Brothers - No Geography
Flume - Hi This Is Flume (Mixtape)
Rüfüs Du Sol - Solace
Tycho - Weather

Who Will Win: The Chemical Brothers ✓
Who Should Win: The Chemical Brothers ✓
Reasoning: Much like last year, this is an incredibly tight category, and truthfully I wouldn't be surprised if any of the latter four took it home. Apparat's album is nice, but there were less than a handful of tracks that stood out to me. I will say the same for Flume's mixtape too as it's just not for me, however I can easily see the academy going his way once again. Having lost to Flume in 2017 with what in my eyes is a better album, I once again see Tycho coming up short. This leaves me torn between two undeniably excellent albums, both with singles in the category above. I've sided with the academy going to The Chemical Brothers based on name recognition and legacy, something they've done the last two years. I also feel they are the most deserving if only by a slim margin. That said Solace boasts a spectacular soundscape and beautiful breadth while remaining tight and true.

BEST REMIXED RECORDING

Madonna - I Rise (Tracy Young's Pride Intro Radio Remix)
Miley Cyrus - Mothers Daughter (Wuki Remix)
Jorja Smith - The One (High Contrast Remix)
Mild Minds - Swim (Ford. Remix)
Marie Davidson - Work It (Soulwax Remix)

Who Will Win: High Contrast X
Who Should Win: Soulwax X
Reasoning: What a category! For the first time in a while we've got five remixers making their first appearance. That's right, neither High Contrast nor Soulwax have ever been nominated! This only makes this already incredibly unpredictable category even more so. I feel like there's a good chance Tracy Young can capture the title, as Madonna is a name voters can latch on to and her remix is quite slick. I'm really happy for Wuki, but I'd be pretty surprised if he won as the academy has not gone for something quite so banging in years. The Ford. remix has a shot but I'd put it as the least likely, both because of name recognition and its fit in the academy's recent voting patterns. Those two criteria would lead me to believe High Contrast will take the title, while I would love to see Soulwax and Marie Davidson get some well deserved recognition.

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR, NON-CLASSICAL

Jack Antonoff
Dan Auerbach
John Hill
Finneas
Ricky Reed

Who Will Win: Finneas ✓
Who Should Win: Ricky Reed X
Reasoning: There's a not a single holdover from last year's category which is an oddity, but Auerbach, Hill and Reed each have been here before. It's pretty rare that a first time nominee takes this crown, but I see Finneas taking the title for his inextricable role in the success of Billie Eilish. However his relatively small catalog (for which he is nominated) has me worried about this pick and could easily see Auerbach taking the title. That said, it really ought to be Ricky Reed for his work with Lizzo, Maggie Rogers, Maren Morris and SZA among others.

***OTHER, MORE UNINFORMED PICKS***

Best Music Film: Beyonce ✓
Best Music Video: Gary Clark Jr. X
Best Comedy Album: Dave Chapelle ✓
Best Reggae Album: Koffee ✓
Best Rap Album: Tyler, The Creator ✓
Best Urban Contemporary Album: Lizzo ✓
Best Alternative Music Album: Vampire Weekend ✓
Best Pop Vocal Album: Billie Eilish ✓
Best Pop Duo/Group Performance: Lil Nas X & Billy Ray Cyrus ✓
Best New Artist: Lizzo X
Song Of The Year: Billie Eilish ✓
Album Of The Year: Lizzo X
Record Of The Year: Billie Eilish ✓

Boys Noize x Francis And The Lights - Why Not

While usually I limit myself to covering tracks released in the the last week or so, this Boys Noize/Francis And The Lights collaboration once again caught my attention after arising in a shuffle of recent releases. "Why Not" is an incredible display of Boys Noize's wide ranging production abilities. He can craft bone-crushing techno as well as blessed disco. Being the latter, this track excels in allowing Francis And The Lights' vocal work to prosper. His flow feels like classic Phil Collins yet as it bounces around Boys Noize's production it does not sound dated in the slightest. The slick three and half minute progression is uplifting and energizing. It is a lush liberation that thrives on its own ethos - ask yourself why not; don't be afraid! Watch the lyric video here and get "Why Not" via Boysnoize Records here.FOLLOW BOYS NOIZE: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
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Enlightened Listening for March 29

Just as with last week's edition of Enlightened Listening, the focus is on the future and we've got a great taste of it not just in the three diverse, yet equally awesome albums from Nömak, Maceo Plex and Plant43, but also in the trio of super-duos: the return of Dog Blood (Boys Noize & Skrillex), Anti Up (Chris Lake & Chris Lorenzo) and the newly founded Europa (Jax Jones & Martin Solveig). Rounding out the playlists are two beautiful takes on Luttrell's "Into Clouds," the killer combination of NGHTMRE & A$AP Ferg, and the versatility of Diplo as he does house. Stream below and enjoy!

Luttrell - Into Clouds (The Remixes: Part 1)

Diplo - Hold You Tight

Jax Jones & Martin Solveig Present Europa - All Day And Night (ft. Madison Beer)

Anti Up - Concentrate

Dog Blood - Turn Off The Lights

NGHTMRE - Redlight (ft. A$AP Ferg)

Nömak - 128 kbit/S_My_Love

Maceo Plex - Mutant Series

Plant43 - Three Dimensions

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.

Enlightened Listening for October 26

What's the allowance on special Fridays for releases? Seems like we've hit our quota, but boy is this one wicked. It marks the returns of Robyn, Handbraekes and Mat Zo to Anjunabeats. On top of that there's incredible albums from Savant, Adriatique and G Jones, and superb singles from Erol Alkan, SG Lewis, Krafty Kuts/Dynamite MC and Plump DJs. Finally a remix from Yung Bae rounds out this week's Enlightened Listening. Enjoy it all via playlist below and individual released linked at the bottom!

Robyn - Honey

Savant - Slasher

Mat Zo - No Words

Adriatique - Nude

Booka Shade - Sacred / Cyril's Garden

Erol Alkan - Silver Echoes (Shorter)

Handbraekes - #3

The Knocks ft. Method Man - Goodbyes (Yung Bae Remix)

G Jones - The Ineffable Truth

SG Lewis - A.A.T (ft. Drew Love)

Krafty Kuts & Dynamite MC - Light It Up

Plump DJs - Big Apple

Enlightened Listening for September 21

Holy funky Friday Batman! What another blessed week for releases. There's killer tracks from Apashe, Boys Noize, Chris Lake, along with the resurrections of both The Dove and Nicky Da B. A masterful album from Ryan Hemsworth. A mindblowing midtempo compilation from some of the best in the game plus funk from NAMPA, Midas Hutch and 2ToneDisco. Stream this week's Enlightened Listening in the playlist below, read brief descriptions, grab free downloads where available and enjoy!

NAMPA - Babymood
What's in the water that makes the French so funky? This one has me smiling from ear to ear, as both the vocals and production tickle my heartstrings. Feels like Aeroplane's mix of "The Piper's Song."

Midas Hutch - The Feels
We've already heard (and fallen in love) with a couple of these cuts, but six tracks are truly a treat, nailing the EP's title. Perfect for a sunset stream, sharing some drinks with friends.

Ryan Hemsworth - Elsewhere
This man can do it all, and this album is perfect proof of that fact. Just look at the number of tracks and artists, and the overall quality of each. Indie and pop at the same time. And those switch ups, damn!

MEMBA - Stand Off (ft. Ehiorobo)
These guys have been on the come up for a while so it's awesome to see them on Monstercat. While I continue to grow less and less interested in future bass, there's no arguing the killer quality of MEMBA's sound design, nor their ability to work with and around vocalists.

2ToneDisco - Love Automatica (ft. Chandler Blasé)*
So funky chiptune disco you say? No wonder I'm on board. Even when it's drawn back and Blasé takes the lead I can't help but tap my toes. Then when it all comes together, that's true love.

A-Trak ft. Todd Terry - DJs Gotta Dance More (Cassius Burnin' Mix)
Took me a bit to dig the last mix of this track, but when I heard the 15 second teaser for this one I immediately knew this was going to be for me. Legends on legends on legends. Sure to get more than just the DJs dancing, I can see everyone from the security to the bar staff grooving out to this.

Chris Lake & Green Velvet - Deceiver
Did someone say legends? Because we've got another killer collab here. Clean yet dirty. Simple yet strong. No big surprises here just another potent production to add to each of these veterans' catalogs.

Apashe - Do It (ft. Black Prez)
Is this really the first Apashe original since Requiem? Clearly he's been perfecting this and it shows. Another unreal ominous soundscape with viscous, violent drops and a dope vocal delivery.

Various Artists - Blood Moon*
Of the seven artists on this EP, I've covered or played everyone except No Etiquette, but their track has me digging for more. All these tracks reek of destruction, despair, dread, death and other dark D words.

The Dove - Vault Traxx
Hold up! The Dove is back?! It's hard to match the viral quality of "Girl At A Party With Siren" but these two new tracks are both in the same vein as that original Twin Turbo release. Pure party power.

Wuki - Go Deep (ft. Nicky Da B)
There have been a handful of tracks with this name, but Wuki may have just won the title with this banger. The bass line is wicked sick, sure to have you moving at one hell of a clip, and might just leave the whole club jumping as it slaps stupid strong.

Boys Noize - Killer (ft. Stephen A. Clark)
Last year Seal and Adamski's acid house classic got new life with an incredible orchestral touch from Pete Tong and Jules Buckley, now Boys Noize has brought it back to the executionary electronic sphere. Full of life with Clark's vocals and that perfect piano touch which opposes the exceptionally dark drums and cut-throat chords.  Some classics will never die and this one deserves to live on in eternity.

* asterisks indicate free download

Enlightened Listening for July 20

After nearly losing it all this afternoon (my iTunes crashed and I thought I had lost all of my metadata), new music has arrived and saved the day (don't worry my iTunes is alive and well!). I'm going to have to keep things short and sweet as I'm running out of time, so no descriptions, just a playlist of new music ranging from funk to house and trap to techno/club/bass. There's a couple free downloads so look out for those asterisks below, and enjoy some killer stuff from big and trusted names like Lane 8 and Gorgon City, and remixes of Nick Catchdubs, ZHU x Tame Impala, and RL Grime. ENJOY!

Night Tempo - Bay City Groove (ft. Super Brass)

Pigbag - Papa's Got A Brand New Pigbag (A Pied Piper Mix)

Lane 8 - The Disappearance of Colonel Mustard

Gorgon City - Hear That (ft. D Double E)

Botnek - Work That (Body)

Nick Catchdubs ft. Mattie Safer (ZOI Remix)

ZHU x Tame Impala - My Life (Just A Gent Remix)*

RL Grime ft. Boys Noize - Pressure (Divinite Remix)*

GRRL - Nightclub

*asterisks indicate track is available for free download

Enlightened Listening for February 16

The last few Fridays I've been compiling playlists of new music for the weekend, so today I've decided to give it a name and make it a routine. I present the first proper edition of Enlightened Listening. The name is a simple tie to the blog itself, which features all dance and electronic genres under the sun, as does this list and the others ahead of its naming today. I should also state that while I use the term enlightened, I'm not suggesting that each of these are the pinnacle of production but rather some creative cultivations on the endless road to musical enlightenment. So once again here we go, find the tracks in no particular order, note the free downloads marked by asterisk and reviews at the bottom.

ATLiens - Interstellar (ft. Sara Skinner)
Fantastic mix of fearsome fire in the incredibly twisted trap drops countering Skinner's savory vocals.

Madeaux - The Wave (ft. BRUX)
Another captivating creation from Madeaux that fits its title to a tee. I can't quite put my finger on what this reminds me of most, but certainly the likes of Jack Beats, Mr. Oizo, Boys Noize and others.

NuKid - Hustlin'*
The more I hear from NuKid the more convinced I am that he sits atop the crowded crossroads of deep, g-, and bass house. The combination of grit, drive, and bounce of this track is mindblowing.

AOTA - D Sides*
Five classics (or soon to be classics) twisted to fit AOTA's particular brand of deep house. Likely your eyes are drawn to "Satisfaction" or "Bodak Yellow" and while they all deliver a good groove get your feet going, I'm most struck by the Borgore remix, which like the original goes ridiculously hard.

BETON - Directions (ft. Wevie Stonder)
My most anticipated track of the year. I've gushed about it following Tiga's New Names Mix and again when the B-Side was released (here). Crank it to up 11 and shake the whole house. MASSIVE!

Robotaki - Limbo (ft. SHOR)
Seems like every new production from Robotaki raises the bar further and further. It's the perfect mix of T.E.E.D., SBKTRKT, Chet Faker and future bass when it was fresh coming out of Australia. Beyond beautiful, fantastically funky, smooth and sublime. Oh my days, might just have a little cry.

Max Olsen - Sub Zero (ft. JC)*
Expect to be moved by this one. Deep bass bonks and sweeping grooves. And how about those lyrics?

SAKIMA - Death Is In The Air
Maybe it's just the album art but I can't get The Cure out of my head. There may be nothing I enjoy more than dark lyrics with bright uplifting grooves. This is gives new meaning to scary good.

Minnesota - Hilow (Charlesthefirst Remix)*
Serious get down with these drops. This is atmospheric bass brilliance with all kinds of crazy elements.

DAF - Als Wär's Das Letzte Mal (Boys Noize Remix)

Growing up Rammstein were perhaps my most played band, in spite of essentially zero understanding of the German language. Maybe that's why I love the way the vocals of DAF's "Als Wär Das Letzte Mal" sound. Or maybe it's the fact that Boys Noize is the man behind the mix in question. The song, which roughly translates to "As If It Were The Last Time," is German techno at its best, as Boys Noize takes the dark electro/industrial vibes and amps them up with throbbing bass amidst DAF's aggro guitar riffs. The groove is as strong as it is steady, allowing for easy and efficient dancing. Boys Noize always commands crowds and it's easy to see why with this masterful mix. But perhaps you don't want to go out, if so, you could use it as the perfect soundtrack for the new Wolfenstein. Enjoy!FOLLOW BOYS NOIZE: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Throwback Thursday: Hot Chip - Boy From School (Erol Alkan Rework)

It's been a while since I've done a Throwback Thursday post but lately I've found myself digging deeper and deeper through my library, in part fostered by Erol Alkan posting his "Reworks Volume 1" playlist on Spotify. I've noted before that he's without question one of the biggest influences in my musical taste, and that playlist is chalk full of some of my favourite of his works, particularly his take on Hot Chip's "Boy From School." Whether with Boys Noize, his own originals or his unparalleled remix rework/re-edit collection, the man always crafts the most infectious and inspired records.

While I could have just as easily gushed about his "Forever Dolphin Love," "Why Won't You Make Up Your Mind," or "Zero" reworks, I'm still on a Joe Goddard bent and as he's a member of Hot Chip I figured why not continue to run in that direction. What makes Erol's "Boy From School" rework so special is precisely what makes all of his work so genius. He works with the original track's appeal: if it calls for intense banging breaks and beats he does it, if it's a more melodic, expressive tune he takes that into regard. Here with "Boy From School" he keys in on the twinkling sheen of the original, and brings that to the fore, giving the bells more room to breath in the extended now bloghaus bent. And maybe this is really the crux, maybe I'm just a bloghaus boy, but it's that kind of raw mixture of post punk with alluring electronic ideology that makes all of these reworks so magical. They're epic in form and sound design, and just so much fun. That's really what dance music is about; losing yourself in a flurry of fun on the dancefloor. Do yourself a favour and check out as much Erol as you can, you won't be disappointed. He's the perfect mixture of Talking Heads, LCD Soundsystem and Kraftwerk.FOLLOW EROL ALKAN: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
FOLLOW HOT CHIP: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Knightfall - Speed Machine

New Australian duo Knightfall just released an electrifying debut original. "Speed Machine" hearkens back to the days when Boys Noize and Justice ruled over all electro. The driving groove Knightfall deliver is the perfect combination of pure purring horsepower and a gigantic growling feline. The movement is sleek, showing off incredibly smooth production ability, in spite of the gritty nature of their sound design. While you could easily enjoy an instrumental version of "Speed Machine," the 80s-esque vocals and Knightfall's masterful, yet minute, manipulation of them adds an undeniable allure. On a day in which Boys Noize remixed Justice, this is my favourite electro production. I'm astounded by this debut and cannot wait to see what Knightfall have up their sleeves next. Enjoy the stream below. FOLLOW KNIGHTFALL: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER