Enlightened Listening for June 11

We keep creeping closer to summer, and this week's releases would seem to reflect those rising temperatures and longer days. This week's Enlightened Listening opens with an absolutely gorgeous album from Folamour that seems to have no weak spots whatsoever. An incredible accomplishment. Two awesome singles follow that as we continue with funky feels and organic grooves. A second highlight follows those singles as Jessie Ware caps her Platinum Edition of What's Your Pleasure? with two more incredible offerings. Next up is perhaps the most gorgeous jewel of them all, a breathtaking Brothers Macklovitch take on my favourite track from Tchami's Year Zero. Turning the tempo up a couple notches, two duo-made percussion-driven EPs follow with wicked tracks on each Oh and The Limit. My favourite of the three TroyBoi tracks to drop today then leads us into a couple cool, house singles before Hidden Face's brilliant Need U EP on This Never Happened. Finally, we throw caution to the wind as we end with the epic power of ARTBAT's remix of Röyksopp. Dig in now below. Enjoy!

Folamour - The Journey

Kill Them With Colour - Wave

Boomtang All-Stars - Love Trip (ft. Four80East & Chin Injeti)

Jessie Ware - Impossible / Eyes Closed

Tchami ft. Todd Edwards - Damaged Hearts (The Brothers Macklovitch Remix)

Justin Jay & Claude VonStroke - Oh

Cloudsteppers - The Limit

TroyBoi & Destructo - You're The One For Me

Kneptunes - Rainfall

Golf Clap - Lose It

Hidden Face - Need U

Röyksopp - What Else Is There? (ARTBAT Remix)

Enlightened Listening for June 4

After a week off, we return to our new music playlist in a big way. This week's edition of Enlightened Listening features fifteen releases, largely in the funky sphere, but gets further driving and dark the deeper it goes. If there is one theme, it is the guitar (bass and otherwise). The oft underused instrument plays a varied role in several of this week's standout tracks, including particularly enjoyable iterations from ARTY, Myd and Lamorn. The latter mau5trap release, along with singles from Gaspard Augé and Rampa, and minds&machines' "Resurrected" make up my favourite four tracks of the week. The final third of the playlist, which holds all of the longer releases, features the second sensational EP from Hyunji-A in as many weeks, the deadly good debut EP from Afterlife & Tale Of Us founder Anyma, and another epic delivery from Drumstone, who continue to amaze at every turn. Finally, there's a massive compilation in Interzone that features killer new content from Cardopusher, Gesaffelstein, Djedjotronic and more! Stream everything now below and find each release linked individually at the bottom. 

CHVRCHES - How Not To Drown (ft. Robert Smith)

ARTY - One Night Away

Elohim - Strut (Myd Remix)

Lamorn - Physical Layer

Jessie Ware - Hot N Heavy

David Penn - Lift Your Hands Up (ft. Ramona Renea)

Gaspard Augé - Vox

Xinobi - Birds & Smoke

Rampa - The Church

Booka Shade - Essential Chrome

Hyunji-A - Chapter One

minds&machines - Resurrected

Anyma - Sentient

Drumstone - Freedom Call

Various Artists - Interzone

Enlightened Listening for August 7 (Spotify Edition)

As mentioned in my previous post, the August 7th Bandcamp edition of Enlightened Listening, I've made two versions of the weekly release playlist with this one coming from Spotify. Here I've organized the 16 releases with the hopes of the 38 tracks playing out cohesively. There's numerous incredible remixes, several strong originals and an absolutely fabulous album from House Gospel Choir. Enjoy the playlist below, find each individual release linked at the bottom and have a great weekend!

Austra - I Am Not Waiting (Claptone Remix)

Jessie Ware - What's Your Pleasure? (Georgia Remix)

Myd - Together We Stand (Remixes)

House Gospel Choir - My Zulu

Amtrac - Between The Lines (Zimmer Remixes)

Sub Focus & Wilkinson - Air I Breathe

René LaVice & Jess Young - Bad Luck

Goldroom & Moontown - Guess I'm Jaded (The Remixes)

Jonas Blue & MAX - Naked (Armand Van Helden Remix)

Loud Luxury - Cold Feet (Cat Dealers Remix)

CamelPhat ft. Yannis - Hypercolour (Patrice Bäumel Remix)

Eelke Kleijn - Woodstock (Hernan Cattaneo & Soundexile Remix)

Mercer - Lemonade

Volac - Muchacho

BROHUG - Stealth

Lowdown - Ghetto Poetry

Enlightened Listening for June 26

While I said I was going to take the week off Bump In The Hump and blogging, I figured today was as good as any to break said 'promise.' However I will keep pretty close to it by simply listing this week's Enlightened Listening below, with no additional commentary. As usual it runs from generally lighter to heavier tracks, from rock/pop/disco to ever more banging house and DnB. Have a great weekend!

HAIM - Women In Music Pt. III

Jessie Ware - What's Your Pleasure?

Breakbot - Be Mine Tonight

The Shapeshifters - Finally Ready (ft. Billy Porter)

DSK - What Would We Do (The Reflex Revision)

Midas Hutch - Freeze

Motez & Qrion - Slow Down

Amtrac - Stratego (Mindchatter Remix)

PRAANA - Samasta / Quiver

Howling - Lover

Hot Since 82 - Eye Of The Storm (ft. Liz Cass)

Djumba Soundsystem & NenaHalena - Sagas Of Iziki / Chapter I

Various Artists - Odd Ones, Vol. 1

The Juan Maclean - Here In The Twilight

T.Raumschmiere / Voigt & Voigt - Speicher 111

Jaded - Bounce (VNSSA Remix)

Dr. Fresch - It Don't Stop

Flume & Toro y Moi - The Difference (High Contrast Remix)

Izo Fitzroy - Red Line (Dr Meaker Remix)

Metrik - Ex Machina

Jessie Ware - Save A Kiss (Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs Remix)

We're just 10 days out from the release of Jessie Ware's fourth full length album What's Your Pleasure?, due Friday June 19th on PMR. Last night she made a green screen appearance on The Late Late Show with James Corden performing the album's latest single "Save A Kiss" (which you can watch here), while earlier in the day Orlando Higginbottom, aka Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs, lent his touch to the James Ford/Midland production.

Turning the lush string-driven disco affair into a catchy club cut, TEED's eclectic quality works wonders throughout this electro-tinged, anticipatory offering. There is no let down over the course of this five minute mix as TEED's new bed bears down brilliantly from start to finish. There is no big pay off per se, but rather plenty of pleasing points throughout. TEED's playfulness constantly pushes "Save A Kiss" to the edge of pure groove power without ever actually abandoning the emotional, optimistic quality of the original. And it is this masterfully crafted middle ground that makes this mix so intriguing as it can be enjoyed both as an energizing earphone offering or mid-set dancefloor firestarter. It oozes with excellence and gives me a bit of a Robyn vibe, and I can't imagine anyone being upset about that. Get the genius TEED remix of "Save A Kiss" now here and pre-order What's Your Pleasure? now here.FOLLOW JESSIE WARE: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
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Enlightened Listening for May 8

After last week's Bandcamp based edition of Enlightened Listening we're back to Spotify for 50 new tracks across 16 new releases ranging from trance and techno, to DnB and disco. There's albums from Somna and Booka Shade, a trio of tremendous EPs, and two sublime singles from my all-time favourites Jessie Ware and Joe Goddard. Find it all below with brief descriptions. Enjoy and stay safe!

Somna - Beside You
I lost my mind when I heard the album minimix on Soundcloud, a great indication of the breadth of the 14 track epic. I recently re-listened to Cosmic Gate's Essential Mix (one of my all-time favourites) and this shares a lot of similarities. My kind of trance.

Oliver Heldens & MOGUAI - Cucumba (Ilan Bluestone Remix)
Another one that reminds me of the Cosmic Gate Essential Mix. Bluestone's brilliance is all over this. The percussion is killer and it works wonders with the synths and anticipatory atmosphere.

John Dahlbäck - Chased
Seems I'm really on the house/trance blend because here we go again. Dahlbäck delivers a big one here, but I just wish it were the extended mix. Really getting the urge to rave IN A CLUB thanks to this.

DubVision - Take My Mind
Absolutely love the wobbly/trippy/glitchiness of this. And while the flurries are obviously the leading lady as it were, the way it catches its stride with the kick is what makes "Take My Mind" so intoxicating.

Lili Caseley - C'est La Ve (Le Matin Remix)
While it doesn't say it in its title, this is a Louis La Roche remix. The soft and slow start quickly makes room for a wicked upbeat kick. A little more jacking than we usually get from LLR, but catchy nonetheless.

Dombresky & Boston Bun - Stronger (Tensnake Remix)
Tensnake stays hot here as he brings his polished groove to the already awesome collab. Special mention needs to be made of both the bumping bassline and sensational string sweeps.

Folamour - I Miss Having Someone To Talk To (ft. Liv East)
Folamour never misses. The organic quality of this one is just so gorgeous and easy to enjoy. Both the brass and the drums are divine.

HERO - CRY BABY (Matthew Law Remix)
It really says something when all the remixes of HERO are immaculate. The Lo Stesso remix last week was really chill and this one is gorgeous and groovy. Love the little cellphone notification/beep sfx.

Jessie Ware - Save A Kiss
My favourite of Jessie's latest run of singles. Sublime strings and brilliant electronic build, both the instrumental and Jessie are as awesome as ever.

Joe Goddard & Hayden Thorpe - Unknown Song
I think this may be my favourite Joe Goddard since Electric Lines. There's just something about the way he works with and around Hayden Thorpe's vocals. It's got a brilliant bounce and dope designs throughout.

Booka Shade - Dear Future Self
Each single has been killer and the complete version is no different. Epic and strong, each of the tracks sets a scene like only Booka Shade can. Massive interstellar magnitude.

Ejeca - Everglade
Following "Ekstac" is a tough task, but this EP is up to it. Awesome moving cuts throughout with the same kind of captivating quality as "Ekstac." Watch out for the fantastic use of vocals.

Aera - Prana
Upon first listen to Prana, I flipped between gasps and yelps as each track revealed itself. The toplines are stunning throughout and their subtleties just so heartening. It's going to be interesting to see how this one plays through the year and whether I'll be pumping all four tracks as I suspect I will.

Cozway - Expedition
The lead single is simply stunning, likely Cozway's best work. Its counterparts continue this trend of showcasing the rising star's sound. Think of him as both Canada and trap's Rebūke.

Baauer - AETHER
The build to the trap legend's album Planet's Mad continues and while two rainforest flavoured tunes appeared this week, I'm far more a fan of the DnB base of "AETHER." It has an edge of madness and mayhem, but Baauer's brilliance keeps it all tight and harmonious.

DJ Zinc - Through It All (ft. Maverick Sabre)
Another legend to wrap things up. Beautiful, uplifting and highly musical DnB with heartening vocals to boot.

Enlightened Listening for April 24

And just like that it's Friday again. This week's Enlightened Listening features 25 new releases ranging from emotional James Blake to banging DnB, new Duck Sauce and some top notch tech house. Of course 25 releases are too many to tackle individually so instead I'll do a quicker rundown here, but you can still find each release logged after the Spotify playlist below and I still suggest exploring the full thing before settling in on a section you enjoy. Have a great weekend and stay safe!

Things open easy with a couple cool cuts: 1) the aforementioned James Blake and 2) the classic Clams Casino/Imogen Heap joint "I'm God." We then turn dreamy and expansive with the latest ADID offering which is then followed by a little more buoyant EP in Agony. Matt Fax then dazzles with an incredible album that 1) lives up to its title and 2) does an amazing job transporting listeners through its massive hour long journey. Another epic, yet slightly more minimal sonic voyage, Rodriguez Jr.'s Blisss too lives up to its beatific title. Turning even more techy, Kompakt boss Michael Mayer finally releases on his own imprint and it does not disappoint. Next up is perhaps my favourite release of the day Fort Romeau's Fantasia whose title track captured my attention faster than any other in this playlist.

Approaching the midway point, the legendary Booka Shade's latest single gets a big, brilliant and dramatic remix from Casper Cole. Progression rules the roost with the next two EPs as La Fleur and Port Manteau offer a couple intriguing tracks each. Taking a groovy turn, Tensnake offers up his hot hand with a trio of takes on Kasper Bjørke's cover of The Alessi Brothers. After that it's the highly anticipated Duck Sauce single "I Don't Mind" which sees Dave 1 join the writing team. Two sublime singles from SG Lewis and Jessie Ware follow that, each getting us excited for their larger forthcoming releases. Finally, closing out this section is Jacques Greene whose genius extends to a remix of Nicolas Godin's cool creation "Catch Yourself Falling," led by the always awesome Alexis Taylor.

In this final section there's a ton of DnB and we get it started with an extended mix of Flume and Toro y Moi's "The Difference" (ie the only way it could get better). Next up it's an incredible Sub Focus and Wilkinson collab, only made more amazing by the fact that the breakbeat drums are done live by the latter UK legend. Friction and Raineman (by way of his two remixes) follow that with three fantastic flourish driven DnB joints. Turning a touch darker, Cyantific's tumbling track leads us into another monstrous René LaVice release, this one in support of the NHS. Bookending the DnB is "Oculus" a vivid and colourful cut from Jack Mirror and Champion. The penultimate release in this list comes from the consistently killer Izzy Vadim who drops two inspired and unique bass tracks. Finally, Cozway makes his Deadbeats debut with the absolutely sick sensation "Camouflage" featuring Laura Hahn.

James Blake - You're Too Precious

Clams Casino & Imogen Heap - I'm God

Slow Hearts - Melanda

Michael & Levan x Stiven Rivic - Agony

Matt Fax - Progressions

Rodriguez Jr. - Blisss

Michael Mayer - Higher

Fort Romeau - Fantastia

Booka Shade ft. Kaktus Einarsson - Perfect In A Way (Casper Cole Remix)

La Fleur - Ravenwaves

Port Manteau - Faded/Pyro

Kasper Bjørke - Seabird (Tensnake Remix)

Duck Sauce - I Don't Mind

SG Lewis - Chemicals

Jessie Ware - Ooh La La

Nicolas Godin ft. Alexis Taylor - Catch Yourself Falling (Jacques Greene Remix)

Flume ft. Toro y Moi - The Difference (Extended Mix)

Sub Focus & Wilkinson - Just Hold On

Friction - Yesterday (ft. Liam Bailey)

Rob Made - Perfect Motion (Raineman Remix)

Cyantific - Falling

René LaVice & A Plus - Lockdown

Jack Mirror & Champion - Oculus

Izzy Vadim - Vacation

Cozway - Camouflage (ft. Laura Hahn)

Throwback Thursday: Katy B x Geeneus x Jessie Ware - Aaliyah

At some point today I decided I'd do a Throwback Thursday post and I tossed around a couple ideas, largely centered around incredible vocal performances. I thought about Gregor Salto and Funkin Matt's remix of Mariah Carey, Syn Cole's remix of Jennifer Lopez, Anabel Englund with Lee Foss and MK (either "Electricity" or "Ghost In The System") or MK's remix of HAIM. However as I listened to the latter on YouTube, my eyes were drawn to the name Julio Bashmore which reminded me of his work with Jessie Ware and in turn I was reminded of her track with Geeneus and Katy B.

Behold 2012's utterly breath-taking "Aaliyah." I'll start by saying that even on today's third listen, this time as the two divas sang live at Wireless Festival 2013 (see here), I was nearly brought to tears by the rush of endorphins as Jessie Ware came out for the second verse. These are two of my all-time favourite vocalists, both delicate and divine while remaining ridiculously powerful despite their restrained delivery. They both spin silky and sublime webs with their bewitching warmth. And it is this incredibly captivating and catchy quality that makes Geeneus' groovy bed such can't miss magic. The bounce is clean, crisp and beautiful. It flows fantastically through each verse and chorus letting its ever expanding luxuriousness lift up each vocal. This is never better noted than in the invigorating second verse in which Ware's whisper quiet vocals clash with the electrifying clicks and bleeps. There's no hope here but to give in to the groovy gorgeousness and bow down at the feet of this trio as they work their witchcraft/wizardry. The aura of "Aaliyah" is truly transfixing. Breath in its brilliance below.FOLLOW KATY B: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
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Enlightened Listening for January 10

With this first edition of Enlightened Listening of the year, we've got a good mix of feels-driven house tracks (highlighted by Lane 8's new album), six sensational remixes (including two from Monkey Safari and a personal favourite in Cousn's take on Jessie Ware), the latest from trusted labels Of Unsound Mind & DFA, and more! Listen via playlist below and find each individual release after the jump. Enjoy!

Leaving Laurel - sometimes it's scary...but it's still you and me / Need Little, Want Less

Lane 8 - Brightest Lights

Nils Hoffmann & Ben Böhmer - Second Sun

Brigado Crew - Equilibrium

CamelPhat ft. Jem Cooke - Rabbit Hole (Monkey Safari Remixes)

Tensnake ft. Chenai - Rules (Motez Remix)

Reece Low - Wait A Minute

Valentino Khan & Diplo - JustYourSoul (Tchami Remix)

Christian Nielsen - Solo

Jessie Ware - Mirage (Don't Stop) [Cousn Remix]

Oh Wonder - Happy (Joe Goddard Remix)

Cold Beat - Prism

Enlightened Listening for December 6

It's the end of the year and everyone's busy so I'm gonna keep the write-up to a minimum for this edition of Enlightened Listening. We open with the first single from ATTLAS' forthcoming album, before turning to two epic compilations from EMERCIVE and fabric respectively. They're followed by two of my favourite artists in Jessie Ware atop Franky Wah and another new Caribou cut. Next up Purple Disco Machine tries his hand at taking on Dua Lipa's fantastic "Don't Start Now." Staying funky, Friend Within hits Toolroom for "Space Jam" and GotSome sends us some Chicago grooves with "The Message." Finally we close with an ingenious take on Joris Voorn's "Messiah." Enjoy and have a great weekend!

ATTLAS - Sinner Complicated

Various Artists - Converge, Vol. 3

Various Artists - 20 Years Of fabric

Franky Wah - Time After Time (ft. Jessie Ware)

Caribou - You And I

Dua Lipa - Don't Start Now (Purple Disco Machine Remix)

Friend Within - Space Jam

GotSome - The Message (ft. Chuck Roberts)

Joris Voorn ft. HÆLOS - Messiah (Dark Science Piano Mix)

DUX & Raquel Rodriguez - Leave Me Behind

Last summer I found myself at a loss for words as I admired not just the slick quality of DUX and Stan Taylor's "Lady Of The Night," but also their live performance of it while seated in a moving van (see here)! This month DUX is back at it; doubling down on the performance by adding a second van. Below you'll see three vocalists, six musicians, a sound engineer and a drone pilot, all working in unison to record a live version of the newly released DUX and Raquel Rodriguez collab "Leave Me Behind."

Much like last year, I first came across the audio stream and immediately fell in love with the fantastically funky and soulful number. DUX's musical bed is sublime and uplifting, glistening with an incredible glow and groove. It's got the perfect mixture of synths and all sorts of little gems like the guitar, drum fills, solos and even effects like the telephone tone. Then there's Raquel's ridiculously powerful yet careful and truly tactful delivery which is downright awesome. In fact it sends shivers down my spine, reminding me of perhaps my favourite singer Jessie Ware. All of this magic is multiplied in the live video, which further showcases the incredible interplay and cohesion - the alchemy that makes music so alluring. But I think I've gushed enough, so just enjoy "Leave Me Behind" at your leisure...
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Enlightened Listening for November 8

Keeping the write-up short and sweet for this week's Enlightened Listening. That said the playlist is just short of 40 tracks and three hours. It's bookended by epic albums from SebastiAn and Grum, and you'll find a couple EPs from the house sphere on either side of them, where Shaun Frank hits the bass, while Le Youth puts forth some progressive beauty. A couple of my favourites offer exceptional remixes, where Sinjin Hawke and Zora Jones take on Murlo's magic and ABSOLUTE. stuns with Big Wild. There's two more power duos, in 2¢'s brilliant banger "REBEL" and the latest taste of TNGHT II. While Mura Masa and slowthai are not an established duo I'm sure hoping we get more of their mix, as "Deal Wiv It" is awesome. Finally, a trio of solo singles from Skream, Eli Escobar and Jessie Ware. Enjoy!

SebastiAn - Thirst

Shaun Frank - Activ8

TNGHT - First Body

Murlo - End Of The Road (Sinjin Hawke & Zora Jones' Flashback)

2¢ - REBEL

Mura Masa - Deal Wiv It (ft. slowthai)

Skream - Pussy Pop

Eli Escobar - (All Night) Rhythm

Jessie Ware - Mirage (Don't Stop)

Big Wild ft. Rationale - 6's To 9's (ABSOLUTE. Remix)

Le Youth - Aquiver

Grum - Deep State

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.

Throwback Thursday: Jessie Ware - Night Light (Joe Goddard Remix)

It's been a while since I've done a proper Throwback Thursday post, but with Jessie Ware bringing her Glasshouse tour to Toronto tonight it feels right to shine a light on not just my favourite remix of the wonderful Mrs. Ware, but one of my favourite remixes of all time: Joe Goddard's take on "Night Light."

NOTE: The stream is not available in Canada on Soundcloud nor Spotify, so Youtube it is. There are several versions there, but in this one VJ Gary remixed the original music video, so enjoy those visuals.

Where to start with this masterpiece? The springy lead synth? Mmm. The luscious layered vocals? Ahh. The funky drum groove? Ah yes. This lays the foundation for the pure and potent pleasure that this tune delivers in droves. It swings and slides, slithering its way down your spine, infecting your unconscious with its warm groove.

As in the music video, Jessie acts as the all powerful puppet master with her beaming vocals emerging as a sublime spotlight above the brooding nocturnal bassline. And this mixture is more than magnificent, it is manifest magic as they swirl together in a fantastical fog. All of this movement and commingling is one thing, and as always Joe Goddard delivers it with incredible grace, but it's nothing without strong sound design, and surprise surprise, that too is showcased front and center.

The depth and delivery of the low end seems ceaseless, yet there is no muddy or murkiness to it, each piece plays its role perfectly. And as with the aforementioned drums, the low end lays the foundation for the titillating top end, which is no better enjoyed than in the final minute and a half as all the elements are realigned in resplendent fashion. And this is truly the cherry on top on this rave-worthy recast of Jessie Ware's sensational sophisti-pop sound.

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Bump In The Hump Sneak Peek: Fil Jackson & Eytan Tobin - Reefer EP

Last week I shared the Stephen A. Smith aided "Off Da Weed" from Fil Jackson and Eytan Tobin's colloborative EP, Reefer, which was released in full Monday. This six track club salute to smokers is so strong I've just got to roll up another one for the airwaves tonight. Stream below and tune in from 7-9!Joining the joint-toters tonight is your usual hearty helping of house (disco, deep, bass and otherwise), along with a strong sampling of techno, DnB, and trap. Once again we look ahead to the weekend with the likes of Jessie Ware, 1800HaightStreet, Amine Edge & DANCE, and HAIM, playing Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Monday, respectively (all events linked through artist names). I've also got the first play of ASHE's forthcoming track "War Sun," which comes out Friday. Don't miss all this and more on Bump In The Hump live tonight from 7-9 PM EDT via Radio Humber or after the fact via Mixcloud.

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Throwback Thursday: Jessie Ware - Keep On Lying (TOKiMONSTA Remix)

In honour of International Women's Day, that just so happens to be a Thursday, I've decided to celebrate with one of my favourite tracks, from two of my favourite artists: Jessie Ware and TOKiMONSTA. Going back four or five years, I had just come across Jessie Ware and fallen deeply for her voice, particularly through her live performance of "Running" on Conan. This spurred a deep dive into her album Devotion and follow up Tough Love, from which "Keep On Lying" is taken. So while in full fledged infatuation with the wonderful Mrs. Ware, I was floored to see that TOKiMONSTA was part of a fivesome set to remix "Keep On Lying" as part of a Red Bull Music & Culture initiative.

While all the mixes carve their own special space, and the accompanying behind the scenes videos are enlightening, TOKiMONSTA's offers up my favourite take on the track. She straddles the line between leaving Ware's vocals untouched and entirely alienating them. And these tenderly retouched vocals play perfectly with the new "Super ADD" type production. TOKiMONSTA's percussion has such a playful punch and poise that again, pairs perfectly with Ware's polished presence. It is at once epic and bold, while still managing to remaining intimate and personal. And it's that human appeal that "has got to be the the best thing I ever felt." Get wrapped up in the penetrating power via stream below, for added intrigue check out the behind the scenes video here, and follow the artists' socials at the bottom.FOLLOW JESSIE WARE: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
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Five Fire February Finds

Last night was lit, partying with the FUXWITHIT fam to celebrate their fourth anniversary, and while I recover today I'm turning to a handful of tracks I discovered this first week or so of February. From personal favourites (Maddmon, LigOne and Jessie Ware) to new names (Opiuo, Zilverstep, and Mist), there's a solid mix of funk and fire. Stream them below and get the first two for free download.The Mist/Jessie Ware track is only available on Soundcloud GO, but can be streamed via Spotify here.

Top 100 Tracks Of 2017: 25-1

Continuation of the list started Tuesday: 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: M-City J.R. - Addicted To My Ex (Taylor Thomas x KGTO Remix)
Of all the remixes in this list, there is no original that I'd be less likely to listen to (save for "All Star," although I certainly did when it came out in 1999). That being said this is one of the top 10 remixes of the year. It combines the loco lyrics that made the original so strange yet alluring, with a brand new ballsy delivery. Whether you have an ex like this or not, you'll certainly be flexing those trap arms when the dope drops screech in. It is absolute madness, especially in the fantastic "aahh" samples.

#24: Caveman - Life Or Just Living (Lil Hank Remix)
(As featured on EFYE) No track in this list invokes as warm a feeling and sure smile as this one. It was my introduction to Lil Hank and while I love "Pupperino" and "A Young Puppo Is Born," it remains my favourite of the bunch. It features Hank's delightful drum delivery and playful warmth that can only come from such a good boy. You can always count on him pick you up at your worst moments, and that's exactly what this track does. It is so supremely buoying that it feels as though you're bounding weightlessly across the Sea of Tranquility. Yet it's not alien at all, it feels just like home.

#23: Sinjin Hawke - Monolith (Overture)
Album openings are tricky. I'm not a fan of innocuous intros that do or say nothing. And dropping the best track right from the get go isn't really appropriate either. Sinjin is able to avoid that issue, while seemingly confronting both flaws, head on. The orchestral warm-up sets up the explosive fire of the album, while giving way to the "Wolves" vocal sample. And while there's still another track from First Opus to come, this was certainly in the conversation for best track on the album. It features all the elements that make First Opus my album of the year. It is big and bold, yet sprightly and spirited. The way the drums and vocals work and play together is utterly intoxicating.

#22: Oliver - Go With It (ft. Chromeo)
Chromeo always stir up something deep inside, but maybe I just better leave the lyrics to them. I too "feel some type of way" when they play next to me, "and I'm not tryna hide it/.../and I'm not gonna fight it." Yes, I absolutely love this, but I suppose we're here for why. It is of course uber funky and fun, combining the electro grooves of Oliver and vivacious vocal play of Chromeo. Each iteration of the synths are strong and self-assured. No matter what kind of day you're having, you'll be strutting when this comes on, any annoyances or aggravations will roll right off your shoulder.

#21: Everything Everything - Night Of The Long Knives
Last summer I had the pleasure of taking in Everything Everything live and was immediately blown away. Jonathan Higgs' potent voice spun circles around my head both in spite of and because of the mystifying lyrics (see "No Reptiles"). This led to their album Get To Heaven becoming one of my all-time favs, I just couldn't get enough. When the follow-up, A Fever Dream, was released I spent the whole day listening to it on repeat, particularly this lead track. It has everything I'd come to love about Everything Everything, and more. Higgs' voice is even more powerful, the drums/guitar/bass even more magnificent, and the lyrics even more mystifying. Just try to play this a couple times without being swept up, joining in the with the singing. This Thanksgiving I was still riding so high on this track that I literally walked around the house all night singing "shame about your neighborhood."

Pete Tong with Jules Buckley and The Heritage Orchestra - Ibiza Classics

Last year Pete Tong teamed up with Jules Buckley and The Heritage Orchestra to release Classic House, a masterful album of covers of some of Ibiza's favourite songs. After featuring the likes of Katy B, Ella Eyre, and John Newman, Tong and Buckley have tapped Jessie Ware, Becky Hill and even Seal for their new album, Ibiza Classics. This new hour and a quarter epic sees The Chemical Brothers, Armand Van Helden, Kolsch, The Prodigy and more take on a new symphonic sound. After the success of the first album, it's hard to believe that things could get better, but dare I say it, they may have achieved the impossible. Hearing Seal sing "Killer" and RAYE sing "Body Language" is one thing, but once again the win in my ears comes with the multi-track melodies "Running/Finally" and "Rej/Man With The Red Face/Yeke Yeke." I know I'll be enjoying the entirety of this undeniable excellence for days, weeks and most likely months to come. Stream Ibiza Classics below, and download from iTunes here.FOLLOW PETE TONG: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Jessie Ware - Alone (Toddla T Remix)

Last week marked the premiere of Toddla T's remix of Jessie Ware "Alone," via Mistajam on BBC Radio 1Xtra. Before I even heard it, I knew it was going to be absolutely delightful, and sure enough it is. There are very few, if any, that have the range and emotional expressiveness of Jessie Ware, whose third album Glasshouse is due out this Friday. Ware's impressive and intoxicating vocals are on full display with this third single, "Alone," and they've only been amplified by Toddla T's demanding dancehall grooves. Part of what makes the original version of "Alone" so incredible is the layered use of Ware's wailing, and again that comes through in spades in this new mix. It's got a gospel feel that works wonderfully with Toddla T's guiding touch. The instrumental breathes life into a tired body, uplifting and energizing listeners to dance longer and more freely. It's so full of love and spirit that I cannot help but use it over and over again. While I'm not a religious person in the usual sense, I would however say that tracks like this are my religion, bringing me again to one of my favourite ideas, that music is the magic of everyday life. Stream/download this slice of magic from your favourite retailer here.FOLLOW TODDLA T: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
FOLLOW JESSIE WARE: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER