The Magician - Magic Tape 102

The Magician launched us into June with another lush episode of his marvellous Magic Tape mix series. Like all previous editions, this new hour features a variety of funky disco house joints with a focus on new and forthcoming music. Also, just like its predecessor Magic Tape 101, the first twenty minutes are pure bliss. No matter my mood, I cannot bring myself to skip these sublime starts. In fact, these two most recent mixes have supplied some of my favourite tunes in the last month or two (see: the Perel remix of "See You Again," Dorothys Fortress' fabulous "Lucha Libre," and Krystal Klear's intoxicating "Piano Banana.") But, back to Magic Tape 102. The opening track, the only ID left, has a really familiar feeling. And here's where I get to the fun speculation as I have a sneaking suspicion (more likely just misguided hope) that this is new music from Joe Goddard and Raf Rundell, aka The 2 Bears. Musically, lyrically and thematically, it screams The 2 Bears, and I couldn't be happier if that is the case. However, and serendipitously punny, it could also be a new warner case production. Again, this would be a fit in his oeuvre, and we know he's been part of Magic Tapes and The Magician's Potion Records in the past. That said, there is no proper evidence either way as to whether this is The 2 Bears, warner case, or someone else entirely. Regardless, it's a fun, funky start to another exceptional edition of the Magic Tape series. Get down to it below and check out the largely complete (and correct) tracklist here.

UPDATE: The opening track has been released on Potion Records. It's Carl Chaste, "Change."

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Enlightened Listening for April 16

It's Friday and I'm busy as all hell, but that doesn't mean I can skip the weekly tradition of Enlightened Listening. However, I will forgo any specific shoutouts save for the godly Gaspard Augé offering "Force Majeure," the lead single from the Justice co-founder's forthcoming album. Apart from that, the playlist opens with some easygoing, emotional stuff, moves through heavier, funkier stuff and ends with a bunch of DnB. Stream the playlist below and find each of the individual releases linked at the bottom. 

London Grammar - Californian Soil

ATTLAS - Long Ride Home (ft. Oliver Wickham)

Bob Moses - Griffith

Doorstep Rebellion - Float Point

Franky Rizardo & Joe Goddard - No Judgement (Kölsch Remix)

Innellea - It's Us

Sam Gellaitry - Duo

Gaspard Augé - Force Majeure

A. G. Cook - Oh Yeah (Caroline Polachek Remix)

Jon Tho & flowanastasia - Awakening

Incandescent - Constellation

NC-17 - Most Violent Year Part 1

Enlightened Listening for November 20

We've made it through another week, and with that comes another edition of Enlightened Listening. Keeping things quick this week, I'll simply say that we've got a glut of great new releases from several of my favourites, including an 18-track album from Dance System that features India Jordan, Hudson Mohawke, UNIIQU3 and ABSOLUTE., and that's just the first four tracks! The playlist opens with awesome EPs from Rhett and Lindstrøm & Prins Thomas and continues with an incredible run of remixes around two collaborations from PAX & Gorgon City and Lee Foss, Detlef & Anabel Englund. Arranged for maximum flow, stream the playlist below and find each individual release at the bottom.

Rhett - All Ocean

Lindstrøm & Prins Thomas - III

Shuya Okino ft. Navasha Daya - Still In Love (Remixes)

Dua Lipa ft. DaBaby - Levitating (KUU Remix)

SeeMeNot - Chez Renee (Joe Goddard Remix)

PAX & Gorgon City - Alive

Route 94 ft. L Divine - Sad Songs (Skream Remix)

Romy - Lifetime (Planningtorock 'Let It Happen' Remix)

Lee Foss, Detlef & Anabel Englund - Thunder & Lightning

For Those I Love - I Have A Love (Overmono Remix)

Dance System - Where's The Party At?

High Contrast ft. Kae Tempest & Anita Blay - Time Is Hardcore (Remixes)

Enlightened Listening for June 12

After last week's Bandcamp edition of Enlightened Listening we're back to our usual home on Spotify. This week's nearly eight hour long playlist features a staggering 85 tracks including 45 from one massive charitable compilation CARE4LIFE which supports the NHS. Said compilation includes big names Daniel Avery, The Chemical Brothers, Luke Solomon, Damian Lazarus, Joe Goddard, Jamie Jones, Pete Tong and so many more. It closes with a a killer DnB cut from 3Strange and the playlist itself does too with a Special Request vs Paul Woolford remix of CLIPZ. Otherwise you'll find that this week's playlist is largely funk and disco driven with amazing offerings from Roosevelt, Cavego, Chromeo and a handful of others. Somehow Ejeca is back with another new EP, just as Tensnake, Tinlicker and Yotto each stay hot with a trio of sick singles. Rounding things out there's standout remixes from Jacques Greene, ABSOLUTE. and Lonely Boy and an epic vocal techno EP from Charlotte de Witte. Find each individual release linked after the Spotify embed below. Enjoy!

Amtrac - No Place (Remixes)

Ejeca - Polar Nation

WhoMadeWho - Synchronicity I

Yotto - Tarantia

Tinlicker - Sleepwalker

Tensnake - Simpansi

Roosevelt - Sign

Cavego - Dovregubben

Kapote - L.O.V.E. 2020 (NYC Tribute)

Chromeo - Quarantine Casanova

Flevans - Realisation (Remixes)

Haska & Salif Keita - Madan (ABSOLUTE. Edit)

Charlotte de Witte - Return To Nowhere

Various Artists - CARE4LIFE

CLIPZ ft. Ms Banks, Ms Dynamite & Jaykae - Again (Special Request vs Paul Woolford Remix)

Groove Armada ft. Nick Littlemore - Get Out On The Dancefloor (Joe Goddard Remix)

I've basically been off the blogging train for two weeks now and the reality is it remains hard to get properly inspired these days. That said, a good Joe Goddard production is sure to remove much of that malaise. Released Friday on BMG, Goddard has graced Groove Armada's Nick Littlemore-led "Get Out On The Dancefloor."

Although it seems most are still a ways away from actual dancefloors, this remix reminds us of the warmth and freedom we associate with that sacred surface. As glorious as ever, Goddard doubles down on the groove, filling it out fabulously, while still allowing for the original drum work and song structure to flow freely. He's also added a little extra glitter and glow, which nicely counteracts the gravity of the new godly get-down. And all of this meshes magnificently with the indie electronic quality of the original which, thanks to Nick Littlemore's vocal delivery, reminds me of LCD Soundsystem.

A true to the original offering, Joe Goddard breathes new, even bouncier life into "Get Out On The Dancefloor." And whereas the original feels more like an ode to the dancefloor, this new version strikes me as call towards it. Clear a little space for your feet and get down to the remix now here.FOLLOW GROOVE ARMADA: 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 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

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.

Top 100 Tracks Of 2019: 100-76

Starting today through Friday (with a break on New Years Day), I'll be revealing my list of the "Top 100 Tracks Of 2019." 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.

You'll notice 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. There's a lot of pop music, but the list is largely electronic and dance dominant.

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 Spotify here.

#100: Robotaki - Quasar
As so often seems to be the case I'm called most strongly to the b-side of a release. Here "Quasar" captures my attention with a truly dizzying display of musical craftsmanship. Robotaki rifles off a resplendent mix of electronic and organic instruments that reminds me of both the extraordinary quality of early future bass and the indie rock energy of Erol Alkan, specifically his "Forever Dolphin Love" remix.

#99: High Contrast - Going Up
The first in a long line of DnB tracks in this year's countdown. The consistent quality of High Contrast is on full display here with this crisp, crackling cut. It's both exceedingly beautiful and seemingly simplistic, while somehow still feeling fresh and exciting after a plenitude of plays.

#98: DROELOE - Only Be Me (Duskus Remix)
Immediately heavy on the heart, this one is actually brilliantly buoyant. The swinging nature of the drop is sure to leave you swooning while the whole thing oozes poppy positivity. While a few years ago I would've said bitbird is one of my favourite labels, I can no longer say that. However this mix seems to have found the perfect balance between their sappy saccharine ethos and sharp, catchy synths.

#97: Nelly - Air Force Ones (Klutch Remix)
While I don't often get into tracks primarily for a single sound, this remix and its rattling bass is so banging that I cannot help myself. The drops are stupid dope and the rest of the track is built with enough ear catching punctuations that it deserves recognition in a list like this. It would be a banger with the first drop alone, but a progressive second drop and its sensational use of Nelly make it a can't miss.

#96: Sub Focus - Solar System
With a name like "Solar System" you'd expect some serious magnitude and Sub Focus did not disappoint. This one hurdles along at light-speed and if you go along with it, you're apt to burn up like a supernova. A lot of electronic music has an outer-space, futuristic feel and this is most definitely one of this year's best, most banging examples.

Enlightened Listening for October 18

My goodness have we got a great edition of Enlightened Listening this week. Opening the playlist below are back to back brilliant and truly masterful examples of electronic albums, a form that I often hear is dead. Floating Points' Crush is a captivating quest that will send you soaring through your consciousness. While Jacques Greene's Dawn Chorus does the same, it feels more at home on the dance-floor, particularly through its entrancing grooves. Staying groovy, the next release features a trio of remixes of Boston Bun's "Don't Wanna Dance" with a sublime standout from Mighty Mouse.

Changing gears a bit, the fourth step in our twelve part release showcase comes in the form of ABSOLUTE.'s second EP on Family Planning. This is not the titanic ABSOLUTE. we're used to but rather a more tempered touch that actually works wonders. I love "Get Off The Floor" and I'm in awe of "This, Too, Will Pass." Speaking of awe, Pete Tong has reunited with Jules Buckley and The Heritage Orchestra (as HER-O), launching the first single of their all original album Chilled Classics. "Go Crazy" is an instant sensation and I urge you to check Pete's twitter for further insight into the project.

After Pete comes a pair of singles. The first, Grum's return to Anjunabeats is big, bold and beautiful. The second, Uppermost's "Selfless" is sublime, soaring stuff. Exactly what I've come to expect from him. And while it's hard to have expectations with regards to Joe Goddard, as his capabilities seem limitless, this remix of ALASKALASKA shows off a wonderful wandering spirit that beckons you into its beautiful, warm and comforting arms. Just like Joe, Alex Metric always manages to deliver incredible offerings no matter what the mood or who he happens to be working with. Jacking goodness prevails here in this Waze & Odyssey collaboration.

The final three releases feature a couple remixes alongside an absolute killer EP from rising star Rebūke. First, Theo Kottis has crafted a brilliantly bouncy and upbeat remix of Mind Enterprises' "Monogamy." Slick and strong, it is a wonderful affair that I will no doubt be returning to many a time. After that is Valentino Khan's crisp and cool remix of Tchami's Blackbyrds sampling "Rainforest." While the original is quite nice, the drop in this version seems to fit the sample even better than before. Finally, Rebūke's 3 track Drumcode EP shows incredible power and progression, not just from a tracklist perspective but even within the tracks themselves, no better than in the title track "Rattle."


Floating Points - Crush

Jacques Greene - Dawn Chorus

Boston Bun - Don't Wanna Dance (Remixes)

ABSOLUTE. - Make The Call

Pete Tong & HER-O - Go Crazy (ft. Todd Edwards)

Grum - Tomorrow

Uppermost - Selfless

ALASKALASKA - Happyface (Joe Goddard Remix)

Alex Metric x Waze & Odyssey - Jack To The Future (ft. Russoul)

Mind Enterprises - Monogamy (Theo Kottis Remix)

Tchami - Rainforest (Valentino Khan Remix)

Rebūke - Rattle

Throwback Thursday: Hot Chip - Don't Deny Your Heart (Joe Goddard re-edit)

With Hot Chip's album A Bath Full Of Ecstasy having been released just over one month ago, I felt it was time to turn back the clock and focus on perhaps my favourite remix of Hot Chip, a re-edit from member Joe Goddard. Taken from 2012 album In Our Heads, "Don't Deny Your Heart" was the third single and features some of my favourite elements of all of Hot Chip's incredible catalog. As always Alexis Taylor's voice stands as the pristine pillar at the centre of sublime synths, genius grooves and masterful mix of communal vocals. That said, upon hearing Joe Goddard's 2013 retake it was clear that the pieces laid down in the original weren't quite given the glory they deserve.

More upfront with the funk and energy, as well as the vocal samples and little licks, Joe Goddard's re-edit really lets loose. It feels almost fearless it in its delivery, landing body blows right from the repackaged start. However the genius of Goddard comes in his thoughtful re-positioning of the shimmering strings sweeps and splashy cymbal work, setting us up for the eventual return to the brilliant opening synth bed. And this is where I must stop and address the hilarious mondegreen (misheard lyric) at the beginning. Noted by Stuart Maconie on BBC Radio 4 here, it was said tweet that brought me back to "Don't Deny Your Heart" and now has me saying "Willie Thorne" with each listen.

But back to the music, or dance-floor as opposed to the karaoke bar as it were. This edit does indeed propel listeners more towards their feet with the music forward re-fix. The more upfront percussion (steelpans especially) and extended groove sections really play into the track's title and subsequent lyrics ("don't forget to breathe"), give me and my heart exactly what we desire. My listening habits generally lead me to more music forward productions and this certainly delivers that, while still remaining true to the original's integrity. A god-send, Joe Goddard never fails when he lends his abilities to a track, even more so when he does it twice over. Stream and follow each Joe and Hot Chip below.FOLLOW HOT CHIP: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
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Mall Grab - Growing Pains

Jordon Alexander, better known as Mall Grab, just released a four track EP on his own imprint, Looking For Trouble. Growing Pains was born out of "a number of unfinished projects, somewhere in between grime, broken beat, rave and electro," and it is the title track that best exemplifies this ready to burst blend of beats.

Setting the scene, "Growing Pains" does indeed grow, slowly spreading its electro rave roots as the beat rattles around your ears with an awesome atmosphere. The drum introduction to the cavernous quality of the first room-shaking bass booms around 1:25 mark is more than enough to have you breaking out your best footwork as you attempt to keep pace with the propellant groove. Little licks and fun flourishes keep the rest of the raucous and rollicking production plenty pleasing it progresses through its dirty, dance dungeon-esque drops.

Just as Joe Goddard's Pull The Plug EP, punishes with electrifying energy, Growing Pains too is torturous to those unwilling to exercise their right to dance. Dive into the EP's title track below, and find the full release from your favourite streaming and purchasing outlets here.FOLLOW MALL GRAB: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Seahawks - Eyes Of The Moon (Joe Goddard Remix)

Joe Goddard is here to start your week off on the right foot with a fantastic remix of ambient psychedelic duo Seahawks. Taking on the title track from their CASCINE released album Eyes Of The Moon, Goddard has delivered a bright plucky affair stretched out over eight minutes. Building a new bed for the dreamy original's oozing ambiance to flow over, Joe's drum delivery and always cool craftsmanship will surely satisfy any desire to dance. Growing slowly as elements are added, we're finally greeted by vocals in the third minute as lyrics and extended chords add some semblance of humanity to the exceedingly alien appeal. However as the groove evaporates in the midsection, the landscape of this lunar creation becomes even more psychedelic and alien as though floating above the countless craters on the moon's surface. As the trip concludes Goddard guides us into the ether with a fantastically funky finale. Stream now below and make "Eyes Of The Moon" your own here.FOLLOW JOE GODDARD: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER
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Enlightened Listening for April 26

Our last April edition of Enlightened Listening includes two notch albums from Nick Murphy & Satin Jackets, the potent pairing of Cotonete & Dimitri From Paris, a killer remixes of "Killer Whale" & "REDLIGHT," as well as awesome originals from EDX, Mohican Sun & BIJOU. Enjoy below!

Nick Murphy - Run Fast Sleep Naked

Satin Jackets - Solar Nights

Cotonete & Di Melo - A.E.I.O.U. (Dimitri From Paris Remix)

EDX & Amba Shepherd - Off The Grid

Mixhell & Joe Goddard - Killer Whale (Remixes)

CamelPhat & Cristoph ft. Jem Cooke - Breathe (Eric Prydz Remix)

Mohican Sun - Darkest Hour

BIJOU - Your Love

NGHTMRE & A$AP Ferg - REDLIGHT (Flosstradamus Remix)

Enlightened Listening for March 8

We've got an extra funky Friday full of releases for this week's edition of Enlightened Listening. There's a couple cool albums of the groovier house variety, opposed by the despair driven darkness of Gesaffelstein's first album in over five years. There's also excellent EPs from Jon Gurd and Joe Goddard, as well as some sick singles from Don Rimini and Juelz, plus a couple sublime remixes from Folamour and Joris Voorn. Stream via Spotify playlist below and find descriptions at the bottom. Enjoy!

Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs - Energy Fantasy (Folamour Remix)
Fantastic opening track. The drum work dazzles beneath bright and beautiful, soaring synths.

Birdee - Then Came The Sun
There are no holes in this album. Full on funky fun with awesome vocal driven and instrumental tracks alike. Big bold beats like "Love" and "Rumours" and more spacious, slow-burning sensations like "Meant To Be" and "Don't Give Up Your Love."

Locked Groove - Sunset Service
A lot like Birdee above, the funk is strong with this one; however, the energy is kicked up a notch, as immediately noted in "Pudding." Verging on classic rave vibes, there's no shortage of dance energy at the core of these tracks. They can be dark and dirty like "Zillion" or bright and ethereal like "Out Of Orbit."

Yotto - Walls (Joris Voorn Remix)
The typical top notch brilliance of Voorn is on full display here. As always, the extended offering allows the ease of "Walls" to breathe its beauty into your soul.

Jon Gurd - After It All
Like Folamour above, the drum work throughout this EP lays a fantastic foundation for the swirling synths to dance around. While it opens skyward in its projection, After It All gets deeper as it progresses.

Joe Goddard - Pull The Plug
My most anticipated release of the year so far. Each track is exceptionally designed, delivering some seriously sick grooves. "Sacred Heart" is both hypnotic and brilliantly bumping. "Max De Fool" builds on this hypnotism, turning further towards techno before Kool Keith cuts the chord with a wild get-down and fulsome flow on the title track. Finally, the fire inducing, furious drum opening of "Broken" will have you on your ass when the beat finally drops. Unreal.

Don Rimini - Homeboy
Bleepy shuffling brilliance. Not an all time stunner, but a surefire party starter.

Gesaffelstein - Hyperion
Expectations are dangerous. Expecting an artist to craft the same kind of tracks they did nearly a decade ago is foolhardy. No, this is not Variations, Conspiracy or even Aleph, but yes, it is still Gesaffelstein. His genius is still there; just like any of us, he's changed/evolved/grown over the years. Admittedly, I was not big on any of the singles, especially after the first few listens, however they've grown on me and now I'm quite the fan of both of the features. Of course I'm here for HAIM, and The Hacker/Electric Youth collab is incredibly intriguing, but the three track finale is perhaps the best bit of this whole endeavor. It's a bit soundtrack-ish, but hey, he's always had those proclivities and if you're not a fan of quality soundtrack stuff like John Williams, Wendy Carlos, Alan Menken and others, you're kind of missing the point...

Juelz - Closure (ft. Ruby Chase)
Finally, Juelz gives us our first taste of his Shanghai Nights EP, due out May 3rd on Fool's Gold. His club capabilities are on full display as he blends trap and future bass better than I've hear in a while.

Joe Goddard - Moebius Trip

2019 continues to be a big year for Joe Goddard, whose track "Moebius Trip" just made its way to Soundcloud. It joins the already shared "Jack Come Back," as both drop Friday on Cin Cin alongside "LakE" and "KatE" from Kiwi. Whereas "Jack Come Back" displays monstrous qualities, commanding the dance-floor with a fury, this new addition takes a much lighter, more seductive approach to inviting listeners to the floor. Yet these are not the only Joe Goddard cuts to watch out for, as he also just shared another EP in four track output Pull The Plug, with help from Kool Keith on the title track. Get the split Cin Cin effort here, and prepare yourself to Pull The Plug March 8 on Optimo Music here.FOLLOW JOE GODDARD: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

Joe Goddard - Jack Come Back

After a relatively quiet 2018 following the smashing success of 2017's Electric Lines, Joe Goddard seems poised for another big year as he's already offered up a new original in "Jack Come Back," the lead single from forthcoming shared EP with Kiwi. Jack Come Back / LakE, which is due out February 8th via Cin Cin Records, has already whet our appetite with the title track already surfacing on Spotify below. Instantly bouncy with both its drum delivery and rubbery bass, it turns whatever surface you're standing on into a trampoline park. However this isn't some overly sanitized, family-friendly facility, it is dark and, in turn, dangerous - equal parts inviting and irksome. The omnipresent acid-tinge sends shivers down your spine as you become hyper-aware of warehouse's worn down equipment. However that's all part of the power and allure of "Jack Come Back," it is exciting, energizing and just a little bit risky. A giant, pulsating, guilty pleasure, I'll certainly be coming back to this while I wait for the full release with "Moebius Trip" and Kiwi's "LakE" and "KatE," February 8th. Pre-order now via Bandcamp.FOLLOW JOE GODDARD: FACEBOOK SOUNDCLOUD TWITTER

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.

Enlightened Listening for June 1

Another Friday, another month, another batch of new music, another edition of Enlightened Listening. This week brings more from Chromeo and Claptone, the welcome returns of Joe Goddard, Sébastien Léger, Flight Facilities, Bob Moses, Chromak, Mura Masa and a cool collab from MNEK. As always stream via Spotify below and read brief descriptions at the bottom. Happy listening. Enjoy!

Chromak - Thoughts (ft. Tato Lopez)
As first heard in his episode of My Mixtape (here), this is one of the better examples of Chromak's breadth of music ability. It is cool and groovy, and big and bold with that brass. Perfect summer tune.

Bob Moses - Heaven Only Knows
Dreamy yet dark, beautiful yet bloodcurdling. I don't know what I'm more wrapped up in, the vocals or the top notch sound design. We know the sky is the limit for Bob Moses, but this may be their best yet.

Perfume Genius - Slip Away (Mura Masa Remix)
Just another incredible example of Mura Masa's undeniable genius. The levels and layers of sounds, melodies and movement, and their intermingling, give me goosebumps. It is unlike anything I've ever heard, except it's exactly what I expect from Mura Masa.

Chromeo ft. DRAM & Jesse Johnson - Must've Been (Phantoms Remix)
A stark contrast from the previous three remixes of "Must've Been," Phantoms drive it deep into a dimly lit tunnel. That said, the funk at the core still stands strong in this stripped down delight.

Sébastien Léger - Naive / Tristesse
As I tweeted yesterday I woke up to "Lost Miracle" and wondered when we'd get new Seb, and here it is. Once again we're treated to his extended and progressive genius as "Naive" arises effortlessly out of the opening and blossoms beautifully. "Tristesse" takes a darker more demure direction, while still offering up the shimmering spirit of play that makes all of Leger's productions such vivid dream sequences.

MNEK - Colour (ft. Hailee Steinfeld)
Whatever instrument(s) it is that opens this track nails the rainbow resplendence of its title. It is a pure pop production, but one that I can get behind and groove to. A worthy companion to "Never Forget You."

Claptone - Stronger (ft. Ben Duffy)
Like Chromeo, Claptone has been on one hell of a streak with singles and corresponding remixes. This latest is a light guitar groover whose crisp cool nature and eventual bass bounce are sure to satisfy.

Joe Goddard - So Much / Human Touch
The lead track feels like the perfect combination of everything Joe Goddard, as though "Home," "Lose Your Love" and "Music Is The Answer" all became one. That said there's also a touch of Peggy Gou and "It Make You Forget" in there somewhere. I just love this "So Much." The b-side is more drum dominant, but still features the sublime synth designs that puts Joe in a league of his own. A delightful dream.

Flight Facilities - All Your Love (ft. Dustin Tebbutt)
Another track I tweeted about yesterday (here), and while I recommended Alex Metric, Aeroplane or both (Metroplane) remix it, "All Your Love" is beautiful in its own right. Tebbutt's vocals are an awesome addition leading the serene soundscape deep into your soul. Indietronic at its best.

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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