Purchase 

Milo Mills -  Downwithu (Extended Version)

Buy/Stream: darker-than-wax.lnk.to/FuturoTumbaoII

Three years after his Darker Than Wax debut Futuro Tumbao (supported by the likes of Gilles Peterson, Lefto, and Bandcamp Weekly), Kansado returns with a sequel that goes further to introduce fresh new takes on Latin soul. If Futuro Tumbao represented testing the waters of future afro-Cuban music, Futuro Tumbao II is a full-on submersion and exploration into this fusion. Based in uptown New York City, Dominican-American producer Kansado is rooted in the hub of a flourishing afro-latin independent music scene. Kansado fuses the rhythms of the Caribbean and Latin soul with the left field sensibilities of hip hop, neo soul, and lofi to create a musical language all his own.

‘Futuro’ is Spanish for future and ‘Tumbao’ carries two meanings: One, the base rhythm found in afro-Cuban music, and two, swagger. Standout tracks ‘Limber de Coco’ and ‘Suave Como Va’ quote the smooth progressions of latin soul greats Poncho Sanchez and Tito Puente, all the while blurring the lines between the new and traditional - Latin soul meets future funk. ‘El Neo Songo’ and ‘Astral Yambú’ offer a meditative space where the folkloric forms of songo and rumba blend seamlessly into neo soul and jazz. ‘Lala Guayaba’ takes you to the heart of the Dominican Republic and lays wavy synths and guitars over a thumping side chained tambora - introducing a future beat sensibility to merengue.

Futuro Tumbao II is both a love letter to the future of afro-latin music, as well as a strong statement about Kansado’s growth as an artist. With a meticulous approach to songwriting and production, and a reverence for the artists and genres that have inspired him, Kansado has carved out a musical lane all his own.

Buy LP

Kansado - Limber De Coco (Instrumental)(Futuro Tumbao II LP)

Kansado - Suave Como Va (Futuro Tumbao II LP)

Known for crafting infectious rhythms infused with an otherworldly strangeness, UK-based producer CAIN makes his debut on Darker Than Wax with Sarissa - a seven-tracker driven by his signature percussive style.

Written in his native highlands of Scotland and heavily influenced by the mountainous landscapes, Sarissa seeks to fuse together organic and synthetic sounds in unusual ways. True to his ethos of joining the dots between folk music from cultures around the world, the melodies and rhythms explored throughout are tied together by their timeless, ethereal quality. Interlocking rhythms lead the way as the skeleton in this music with cinematic harmonies woven in and out, leading the listener through dark valleys and emotional peaks.

Each tune tells its own story and has a distinct feel from the next – from the jilting rhythms and hazy rave feel of ‘Sarissa’, the crawling basslines of ‘Gecko’, and the ethereal lightness of ‘Marwa’ to the harmonic weight of Kuro. The seven cuts making up Sarissa are equally effective as dancefloor weapons, or as accompaniments on long foggy walks.

Buy/Stream

Cain - Tyre (Sarissa EP)

Buy/Stream: https://darker-than-wax.lnk.to/Sarissa

Known for crafting infectious rhythms infused with an otherworldly strangeness, UK-based producer CAIN makes his debut on Darker Than Wax with Sarissa - a seven-tracker driven by his signature percussive style.

Written in his native highlands of Scotland and heavily influenced by the mountainous landscapes, Sarissa seeks to fuse together organic and synthetic sounds in unusual ways. True to his ethos of joining the dots between folk music from cultures around the world, the melodies and rhythms explored throughout are tied together by their timeless, ethereal quality. Interlocking rhythms lead the way as the skeleton in this music with cinematic harmonies woven in and out, leading the listener through dark valleys and emotional peaks.

Each tune tells its own story and has a distinct feel from the next – from the jilting rhythms and hazy rave feel of ‘Sarissa’, the crawling basslines of ‘Gecko’, and the ethereal lightness of ‘Marwa’ to the harmonic weight of Kuro. The seven cuts making up Sarissa are equally effective as dancefloor weapons, or as accompaniments on long foggy walks.

Cain - Juba (Sarissa EP)

Cain - Gecko (Sarissa EP)

Cain - Sarissa (Sarissa EP)

Cain - Marwa (Sarissa EP)

Cain - Argon (Sarissa EP)

Cain - Kuro (Sarissa EP)

Pre-Order 12": https://darker-than-wax.lnk.to/CityoftheSunandMoon

Introducing Guohan to the Darker Than Wax family. Originally a native of Ningbo, China, Guohan began shaping his sound in the emerging beat scene in southern China. Now based in Nottingham UK, the producer’s unique influences and effortless style have solidified with his DTW label debut - The City of the Sun and Moon. Already an up-and-comer, Guohan’s well received 2021 debut LP Lost Sound Book has been supported by the likes of Charlie Bones, Esa, Toshio Matsuura, and Ninja Tune. Aside from co-founding Nottingham-based label Running Circle Records, Guohan also co-runs Meridian Sounds, an imprint from southern China pushing subliminal sounds from his motherland.


The City of the Sun and Moon reflects the mountains and liminal spaces from Guohan’s dreams and memories, channeling a healing warmth inspired by people, cities, villages, and tales of his grandparents. Influenced by the musical vibrations in Nottingham, especially DiY and the late Pete Woosh, the 6-tracker brings the listener along on an up-tempo odyssey, while retaining Guohan’s signature hypnotic style. Incorporating hazy synths, percussive rhythms, and collected sound pieces, Guohan paints a vivid picture of his personal journey throughout the record.

Pre-Order 12"

Guohan - Feeling (City of the Sun and Moon EP | Out 17 June)

-Darker Than Wax Free Download Series--

NEGUIMBEATS - "6 DAYS OF LOVE"

DAY THREE : Place Of Tranquility

SEEK:
https://soundcloud.com/neguim_beats

Artwork by the Funk Bast*rd 

DTW FACEBOOK PAGE

NeguimBeats - Place Of Tranquility | "6 Days Of Love" (Day 3)

<b>Darker Than Wax Free Download Series</b>&#13;
&#13;
<b>Giorgio Oehlers - I Rise</b>&#13;
&#13;
So much energy in this one. We are extremely pleased to present to you this wonderful piece of work by the talent that is Giorgio Oehlers. Based in Netherlands, he is an artist that is highly respected in the scene, and his unique approach of combining old soul, r&amp;b and funk has allowed him to shine in his own way. We are certainly die-hard fans of his music, and are pretty sure that you would be too, once the infectious groove of ' I Rise' seeps into your system. Giorgio is also officially an artist of the Darker Than Wax family, and we know this man will evolve in a very big way.&#13;
#wemove&#13;
&#13;
Artwork by the Funk Bast*rd&#13;
&#13;
SEEK:&#13;
https://soundcloud.com/giorgio-oehlers&#13;
http://expansionscollective.bandcamp.com/track/beat-154&#13;
http://lexus.bandcamp.com/track/blue-raspberry-prod-by-giorgio-oehlers&#13;
&#13;
The rest of the Free Download Series :&#13;
soundcloud.com/darkerthanwax/sets/free-downloads-427&#13;
&#13;
&#13;


DTW FB

Giorgio Oehlers - I Rise | Darker Than Wax Free Download

| We Move |

W :   www.darkerthanwax.com
FB :  https://www.facebook.com/DarkerThanWax
IG :  http://instagram.com/darkerthanwax
T :   https://twitter.com/darkerthanwax
BC : https://darkerthanwax.bandcamp.com/

Download Full Compilation : http://bit.ly/X3SNBu 
Alternative Link : we.tl/hhknxldpB8

These few months have been truly inspirational, with our movement gaining ground globally, forming new communities in different corners and interesting opportunities unfolding. It is to say the least, extremely gratifying to know that despite staying pretty much under the radar and not dabble heavily in that PR game, we can still evolve and touch others simply by sticking to our guns - that music should be diverse and expressed in various forms. 

To celebrate that diversity, we have put together a special compilation showcasing where our ideas are at right now. More importantly, it's a chance to introduce our entire roster, which has grown exponentially with the likes of Moods, Sh?m, KA-YU, Jasper Staal and Kerem Akdag. Its slightly unfortunate that Giorgio Oehlers is unable to make it for this compilation due to certain domestic commitments, but we feel what we have here strongly represents the ethos of DTW.

Also included in this comp are some up and comers whom we felt deserve a chance to be given the spotlight and share their sounds with a greater audience. Make a point to listen to Versailles the Everything - she's a really fresh singer / rapper out of Florida, US and has blown our ears and minds with everything that she's doing.

So we will leave it as that, and hope this collection inspires and moves you, as much as it does for us. For our regular listeners, it will occupy another essential spot in your DTW collection. For our new listeners, welcome to the DTW universe - it is only just expanding. :)
#wemove

Big love going out to https://soundcloud.com/kerceya, https://soundcloud.com/beatsbykayu, https://soundcloud.com/moodsprod, https://soundcloud.com/trian-kayhatu, https://soundcloud.com/gdna-music, https://soundcloud.com/sleepin_giant, https://soundcloud.com/professa, https://soundcloud.com/jasperstaal, https://soundcloud.com/beatsofreen, https://soundcloud.com/im-from-finland, https://soundcloud.com/versailles-the-everything, https://soundcloud.com/similarobjects, https://soundcloud.com/ja-el, https://soundcloud.com/neguim_beats, https://soundcloud.com/iamlano, https://soundcloud.com/shemquestionmark, https://soundcloud.com/kaye-14, https://soundcloud.com/monkadelic, https://soundcloud.com/samueltruth, https://soundcloud.com/waju, https://soundcloud.com/soopacrzy, https://soundcloud.com/tehbis, https://soundcloud.com/koetry
 
Credits:

Artwork by the Funk Bast*rd
Compiled / curated by the Funk Bast*rd
Photo for Artwork : John Sideo T





Samuel Truth - Emerald

W : www.darkerthanwax.com
FB : www.facebook.com/DarkerThanWax
IG : instagram.com/darkerthanwax
T : twitter.com/darkerthanwax

We wanted to build the concept of this mini compilation around the 'kitchen', as it is very often regarded as the 'soul' of the house, where a large portion of daily activities actually take place. Whether it's preparing food, grabbing a quick snack from the fridge, or simply having a coffee with a mate over an extended countertop, its function does seep quite deeply into how we live. So for this holiday season (if you are having one), we thought it's rather appropriate to curate and share with you a mini compilation of music from our artists and affiliates - A compilation that would hopefully provide and enhance the environment for those who might be preparing that festive feed for loved ones and friends. 

After all, music is that one true universal language that injects positivity and good energy. 
#wemove 

Big thanks to all of the artists involved in this compilation : 

@https://soundcloud.com/troysamuela, https://soundcloud.com/giorgio-oehlers, https://soundcloud.com/jasperstaal, https://soundcloud.com/wayvee, https://soundcloud.com/silo-beats, https://soundcloud.com/jrjarris and newcomers https://soundcloud.com/choetmandon. 

Compiled by the Funk Bast*rd 
Artwork by the Funk Bast*rd



Bandcamp

Troy Samuela - Yams

W : www.darkerthanwax.com
FB : www.facebook.com/DarkerThanWax
IG : instagram.com/darkerthanwax
T : twitter.com/darkerthanwax

We wanted to build the concept of this mini compilation around the 'kitchen', as it is very often regarded as the 'soul' of the house where a large portion of daily activities take place. Whether it's preparing food, grabbing a quick snack from the fridge, or simply having a coffee with a mate over an extended countertop, its function does seep quite deeply into how we live. So for this holiday season (if you are having one), we thought it's rather appropriate to curate and share with you a collection of music from our artists and affiliates - A compilation that would hopefully provide and enhance the environment for those who might be preparing that festive feed for loved ones and friends. 

After all, music is that one true universal language which injects positivity and good energy. 
#wemove 

Big thanks to all of the artists involved in this compilation : 

@https://soundcloud.com/troysamuela, https://soundcloud.com/giorgio-oehlers, https://soundcloud.com/jasperstaal, https://soundcloud.com/wayvee, https://soundcloud.com/silo-beats, https://soundcloud.com/jrjarris and newcomers https://soundcloud.com/choetmandon. 

Compiled by the Funk Bast*rd 
Artwork by the Funk Bast*rd



Giorgio Oehlers - First Light

Darker Than Wax Free Download Series

Melo-Zed - Electric Avenue

19 yr-old Classical / Jazz guitarist Melo-Zed is a rare gem in the current music scene.
His sounds are highly textured, and exude that warm fuzzy analogue feel. This is further enhanced perhaps by his incorporation of field recordings, which he conducts on a regular basis. Whether it's an original production, or reworks of Drake, he has managed to garner a steady growth of fans worldwide and it was only a matter of time before our stars were aligned, and we are blessed to announce that he is an official DTW artist.
Drawn to his flow and unique vibe, we look forward to building more creative soundscapes with this young one.
For now, download 'Electric Avenue' and explore the universe of Melo-Zed.
#wemove

Artwork / Photo by the Funk Bast*rd

SEEK:
https://soundcloud.com/melozed
https://twitter.com/MeloZed
https://www.facebook.com/melozed


Free DL

Melo-Zed - Electric Avenue | Free Download Series

Beats O Freen - 'Unreleased' (Dimensions Ep teaser)

Forthcoming Dimensions' Ep | DTW 33 
-- iTunes & Beatport - 26th June
-- Rest of the World - 3rd July


Born and raised in The Netherlands, producer Beatsofreen has gained major attention by releasing his first well-received beattape “Future Memories” back in 2011 at the age of 17. 
After a successful collaboration (Global Soul EP) with Medaforacle (USA), he was signed to the Darker Than Wax family, celebrating his new EP “Coloured Dreams” (2013), a little tribute to the late & great J Dilla. With his alterego Stan Forebee (anagram!), Beatsofreen also creates more jazz-orientated beats, and most recently landed himself a feature on Okayplayer for his remix of Flying Lotus' 'Siren song'.

Ahead of his second Ep entitled 'Dimensions' which is slated to drop on the 26th of June, we are pleased to present 'Beatsofreen Unreleased' - a 3 track Ep showcasing his diversity and ability to crossover various genres. Combining dub, hip-hop, electronica and afro-rhythms, Beatsofreen's music is truly standing strong on its own.

SEEK:
https://soundcloud.com/beatsofreen
https://soundcloud.com/STAN-FOREBEE
https://www.facebook.com/stanforebeemusic

Beats O Freen -  The Duke

BEATSOFREEN - DIMENSIONS EP 

CAT NO : DTW 33
26th June - Beatport | iTunes | Spotify | RDIO
3rd July - Worldwide release

iTunes : smarturl.it/dtw33
Beatport : smarturl.it/dtw33bp
Bandcamp : http://darkerthanwax.bandcamp.com
Stream on Spotify / RDIO : smarturl.it/dtw33stream

For fans of Flying Lotus, fLako, Mo Kolours and the like.

Born and raised in The Netherlands, producer Beatsofreen has gained major attention by releasing his first well-received beattape “Future Memories” back in 2011 at the age of 17. 
After a successful collaboration (Global Soul EP) with Medaforacle (USA), he was signed to the Darker Than Wax family, celebrating his new EP “Coloured Dreams” (2013), a little tribute to the late & great J Dilla. With his alterego Stan Forebee , Beatsofreen also creates more jazz-orientated beats, and most recently landed himself a feature on Okayplayer for his remix of Flying Lotus' 'Siren song'.

The process that led to ‘Dimensions EP’ engaged different sides of him as a well-rounded artist – growing as his music developed from straight Dilla-minded beats to more electronic songs.

He approached this first as a musician, and then a producer – working with less samples and recording live acoustic instruments – something which has always been part of work for film and radio but was never included in personal production own music, until this project.

While creating this EP had the intention of an electronic influence, it is balanced off by an earthy jazz element – he began to delve more into the acoustic-folk sound and songwriting.

The Dimensions EP is about bringing these different elements together. It stands for seeing things from new perspectives, for experiencing life's diversity. Everything is possible: it's all around you; inside, on the outside. You just have to find the dimensions, take the walls down, and bloom.

Special thanks goes out to Joanna Borromeo, who lends her wonderful vocals to 'Bloom'.

Artwork by the Funk Bast*rd
Text by RAH
All productions by Beats O Freen
Vocals on 'Bloom' by Joanna Borromeo
Additional remix of 'SAM' by Jasper Staal

SEEK:
https://soundcloud.com/beatsofreen
https://soundcloud.com/Stan-Forebee
https://soundcloud.com/joannaborromeo
https://soundcloud.com/jasperstaal

Dimensions

Purchase

Beats O Freen - Dimensions (Dimensions Ep)

  #wemove

W : www.darkerthanwax.com
FB : www.facebook.com/DarkerThanWax
IG : instagram.com/darkerthanwax
T : twitter.com/darkerthanwax
YT : youtube.com/darkerthanwax
BC : bandcamp.com/darkerthanwax

Darker Than Wax Free Download Series

10A - MOONLIGHT
We firstly welcome 10A to our extended roster of artists and its a huge honor to have this man on board with us.
Tenei Kesha, or better known as 10A really needs very little introduction. A highly revered artist in his own right, 10A has constantly elevated the way beat-making is approached. Besides clinching first place in numerous Beat Battles that included the Australasian Victorian Battle 2014, 10A has also consistently released quality cuts, which some are already staple favourites at the HQ. Our artist Troy Samuela often cites 10A as one of his main influences, so you have an idea where the pedigree is at.
'Moonlight' pays homage to the spirit of the West Coast sound - a particular period in music history that shaped a lot of us at DTW. So to receive a 10A interpretation spliced with his tight drum work and arrangement is simply a blessing.

We won't go on about it tho, but hit that DL button rn.

Artwork by the https://soundcloud.com/funk-bast-rd

SEEK:
https://soundcloud.com/10a
https://www.facebook.com/10Amusic

The rest of the freebies : soundcloud.com/darkerthanwax/sets/freebies



Grab?

10A - Moonlight | Free Download Series


>> Launch of new DTW Script Hoody : http://bit.ly/1N4gkVD
 
Kayloo & Silo - Cadillac

We have been waiting for this collaboration to happen. Thankfully, it did and the wait has been been worthwhile. Paris meets Leuven, where  Kayloo and Silo both compliment each other so well in 'Cadillac'. The title pretty much speaks for itself, as it is an ideal track for driving or jogging into the pink sunset. With Silo's signature chords floating over Kayloo's 808 basslines, the track builds itself into a smooth slo-mo house tempo, showcasing the duo's versatility. 

In conjunction with this collab, we have also just launched our new Script  Hoody so if you are looking for some Fall gear, this might be the one. Head across to darkerthanwax.com and check it out.

#wemove

Artwork by the https://soundcloud.com/funk-bast-rd

SEEK:
https://soundcloud.com/kayloo-sound
https://soundcloud.com/silo-beats






Kayloo x Silo - Cadillac | Launch of DTW Script Hoody

#wemove

W : www.darkerthanwax.com
FB : www.facebook.com/DarkerThanWax
IG : instagram.com/darkerthanwax
T : twitter.com/darkerthanwax
YT : youtube.com/darkerthanwax
BC : bandcamp.com/darkerthanwax

Darker Than Wax Free Download Series

Poldoore - Someway, Somehow 

Cutting that soul, funk and jazz into atmospheric instrumental hip-hop, Poldoore's music is about good vibes. Spending parts of his youth in the US as well as in Belgium, Poldoore quickly found himself making beats. With his ears both in old and new, he carved out his own distinctive, melodic sound. When in his late teens, his productions caught the eye of L.A.-based label Cold Busted, signing him for various releases and two full-on albums. HIs form has landed him a spot at Gilles Peterson's Worldwide Festival, arguably the highlight for him so far.

With such a fine track record, we were humbled and pleased to find out that he shares equal admiration for what we do, and here we are - a classic smoky boom-bap joint by the man himself. 
It's always good to return to the basics.

Artwork by the https://soundcloud.com/funk-bast-rd

SEEK:
http://www.poldoore.com/
https://soundcloud.com/poldoore
https://www.facebook.com/poldoore



Poldoore - Someway, Somehow | Free Download Series

- www.darkerthanwax.com -

HYPEBEAST TV presents DARKER THAN WAX
Watch : http://hypb.st/kxef7  

Soundtrack : 10A x Troy Samuela - Coastlines

Sometimes, it's really about the timing. It's been almost a year since the very first idea floated btw us and HBTV about presenting DTW in a certain way that would represent the DNA of the label. 

Indeed, DTW is quite simply a movement of ideas - stemmed in the notion of diversity, that things didn't need categorisations or definitions, and that life itself could be a jazz moment - constantly improvising and evolving. The artists and affiliates that are hand-picked by us reflect that spirit and we are all part of the same ecosystem.

It's with great pleasure and humility that we present this little insight into the DTW universe, narrated through the voices of co-foudners Funk Bast*rd and Kaye, and we hope this presents you the perfect chance to know us better.

One in music.

Shouts to Ambrose Leung, Alamby Leung, Melvin Betaphats and Daniel Teo for the hard work and co-ordination in making this happen.

SEEK:
https://soundcloud.com/10a
https://soundcloud.com/troysamuela

Artwork by https://soundcloud.com/funk-bast-rd






10A x Troy Samuela - Coastlines | Hypebeast TV presents 'Darker Than Wax'

W : www.darkerthanwax.com
FB : www.facebook.com/DarkerThanWax
IG : instagram.com/darkerthanwax
T : twitter.com/darkerthanwax
YT : youtube.com/darkerthanwax
BC : bandcamp.com/darkerthanwax

Darker Than Wax Free Download Series

fzpz - #wemove

Fresh off our tour of London, Leeds, Manchester and Berlin. we are extremely grateful and inspired to have connected with various communities who have been supporting us and our music. New friendships have been forged, and was a blessing to have met many kind souls in real life. 
Plans for a second Europe tour are already in the works, but for now enjoy this little thank you, courtesy of our very own fzpz.

Artwork by the https://soundcloud.com/funk-bast-rd

SEEK:
https://soundcloud.com/fzpz
https://soundcloud.com/ladylonline (contributing vocals)


Thank U

fzpz - #wemove | Free Download Series

>> 'Another' | Thump Premiere : 
https://thump.vice.com/pt_br/video/neguim-beats-clipe-another

>> Watch video : http://bit.ly/1TMxtcA

W : www.darkerthanwax.com
FB : www.facebook.com/DarkerThanWax
IG : instagram.com/darkerthanwax
T : twitter.com/darkerthanwax
YT : youtube.com/darkerthanwax
BC : bandcamp.com/darkerthanwax

SEEK:
https://soundcloud.com/neguim_beats
http://www.darkerthanwax.com/neguimbeats/

Neguim. has been with us since the early days of the label, and it has been a blessing to see how much he has grown and evolved. Versatile, gifted with a sharp ear and sampling skills, he has earned praises worldwide from selectors and peers.
'Another' marks the launch of his first music video as well, showcasing insights into the daily fabric of his life in urban Brazil. Thanks to Thump Brazil for premiering this one.

#wemove

Artwork by the https://soundcloud.com/funk-bast-rd




Neguim. - Another | Free Download series (Thump Premiere)

Premiere on Music Ninja : bit.ly/1UlrlIP 
Pre-order / Stream / DL : http://dtw.lnk.to/xoxo
Watch on Youtube : http://bit.ly/1Yw1hO3

Credits :

Lyrics by https://soundcloud.com/mikirosemusic
Production by https://soundcloud.com/giorgio-oehlers
Artwork by the https://soundcloud.com/funk-bast-rd
Recorded at HAUS Music

XOXO

Miki Rose -  Right There (Prod. By Giorgio Oehlers) | 'XOXO'

prod. by https://soundcloud.com/keilimusic

DTW x G-SHOCK presents 'NEW TIMES'
- limited GD-100 watches, custom-designed by DTW + USB stick containing 15 exclusive tracks from the Darker Than Wax roster. 

- HIGHSNOBIETY premiere : http://bit.ly/2fCyTdY
- PREVIEW : http://www.darkerthanwax.com/
- 'NEW TIMES' tracklisting : http://bit.ly/2gmGgai

DTW x G SHOCK presents NEW TIMES

KEI-LI - Mushroom Kingdom (Week 1)

W : www.darkerthanwax.com
FB : www.facebook.com/DarkerThanWax
IG : instagram.com/darkerthanwax
T : twitter.com/darkerthanwax
YT : youtube.com/darkerthanwax
BC : bandcamp.com/darkerthanwax
Spotify : dtw.lnk.to/DTWitALL

Darker Than Wax Free Download Series

ECHLN - Step (Feat. Angelo Quila & FonZo)

Following up his recent contribution to the DTW free download series with vocalist Shirah Cheezer, ECHLN brings you a fresh, laid back hip-hop joint featuring MCs FonZo and Angelo Quila. ‘Step’ was conceived at a time when ECHLN wanted to steer his productions toward the dancefloor, yet still retain the mellow vibe that had become a signature of his sound. The result is a bouncy, slow burning beat, accented with spacy percussion and tied together by an infectious, effortless hook. 

Kwetsima Maluleke a.k.a ECHLN (pronounced echelon) is a South African born music producer and sound engineer. He was born and raised in Pretoria and now lives in Cape Town. Since 2009, ECHLN has been forging a unique blend of R&B and hip-hop glued together by uniquely South African soulful elements.


Artwork by @funk-bast-rd
SEEK : @echln

DTW FREE DL SERIES

ECHLN - Step (feat. Angelo Quila & FonZo) | Free Download Series

W : www.darkerthanwax.com
FB : www.facebook.com/DarkerThanWax
IG : instagram.com/darkerthanwax
T : twitter.com/darkerthanwax
YT : youtube.com/darkerthanwax
BC : bandcamp.com/darkerthanwax
Spotify : dtw.lnk.to/DTWitALL

Darker Than Wax Free Download Series

https://soundcloud.com/samsin111 - Ache
>> http://www.darkerthanwax.com/samsin/

We have been keeping in touch with samsin and his music for a minute now, after stumbling upon some of his earlier works, which eventually led to two singles on our Freebie series. 
Considering that he only recently developed an interest for music production in 2015, and eventually started to take the craft seriously at the beginning of 2016, samsin has shown a certain maturity. The summer of 2016 brought more attention from his contemporaries and led to various releases.  Samsin's style always allows you to imagine yourself in another place, and each of his songs reflects a deep insight into the way he thinks about space and textures. His taste brings excitement and intricacy with vivid floating melodies, punchy drums and a delicious blend of percussion and vocal chops - something that resonates with the spirit of DTW and we warmly welcome him to our growing family of artists.

Artwork by @funk-bast-rd

Darker Than Wax Free Download Series

samsin - Ache [Free Download Series]

Stream >> https://DTW.lnk.to/GTAFunk
Vinyl Pre-order >> https://darkerthanwax.bandcamp.com/album/gta-funk

GTA FUNK' is both a reaction to and a reflection of the 'Toronto' sound, conceived during KEI-LI’s move from the suburbs of Mississauga to the city of Toronto.

The vast multiculturalism of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has given birth to a sonic diversity that goes far beyond the signature OVO sound associated with the city. With the world finally tuning in, this EP also enlists the help of fellow artists like https://soundcloud.com/robotaki, https://soundcloud.com/falcxne, https://soundcloud.com/clairmontthesecond, https://soundcloud.com/soundslikeandes and NAHTE, which allows him to showcase a funkier side to the city that the world hasn’t been acquainted with yet.

KEI-LI started producing at the age of 13, informed by his interest in beatboxing and funkstyles popping. After stumbling upon neo-soul, he immediately discovered his musical direction, with Musiq and D'Angelo as his inspirations. While these musical foundations shine brightly throughout GTA Funk, KEI-LI has managed to forge a sonic aesthetic that is entirely his own.

There is an evident struggle with finding an authentic place as an Asian artist within the continuum of funk, soul, and hip hop musical traditions. Hence, the visual branding behind GTA Funk is inspired by the intersection of these two cultures: Kung Fu and hip hop.

Artwork by https://soundcloud.com/keilimusic
https://soundcloud.com/soundslikeandes

Additional mastering and production by https://soundcloud.com/maxx-mortimer and Jason Tan (Eastward Audio)

GTA Funk

Stream / 12"

KEI-LI - Love Submarine ft. ANDES |  'GTA FUNK' Ep

W : www.darkerthanwax.com
FB : www.facebook.com/DarkerThanWax
IG : instagram.com/darkerthanwax
T : twitter.com/darkerthanwax
YT : youtube.com/darkerthanwax
BC : bandcamp.com/darkerthanwax
Spotify : dtw.lnk.to/DTWitALL

Darker Than Wax Free Download Series

https://soundcloud.com/silo-beats - Overdive

Whether it's a classic boom-bap tune, slo-mo house frequencies or experimental leanings, the funk is always strong in silo's music. His consistency has been impressive, garnering a steady stream of fans worldwide, and appreciation for his genre-defying sounds is definitely growing. 'Overdrive' is the perfect companion on that late-night drive, and will smoothen out any rough edges that you may experience on a particular day.

Artwork by @funk-bast-rd

silo - Overdrive [Free Download Series]

Vinyl >> darkerthanwax.bandcamp.com/album/gta-funk
Stream/Buy >> DTW.lnk.to/GTAFunk

GTA FUNK' is both a reaction to and a reflection of the 'Toronto' sound, conceived during KEI-LI’s move from the suburbs of Mississauga to the city of Toronto.

The vast multiculturalism of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has given birth to a sonic diversity that goes far beyond the signature OVO sound associated with the city. With the world finally tuning in, this EP also enlists the help of fellow artists like @robotaki, @falcxne, @clairmontthesecond, @soundslikeandes and NAHTE, which allows him to showcase a funkier side to the city that the world hasn’t been acquainted with yet.

KEI-LI started producing at the age of 13, informed by his interest in beatboxing and funkstyles popping. After stumbling upon neo-soul, he immediately discovered his musical direction, with Musiq and D'Angelo as his inspirations. While these musical foundations shine brightly throughout GTA Funk, KEI-LI has managed to forge a sonic aesthetic that is entirely his own.

There is an evident struggle with finding an authentic place as an Asian artist within the continuum of funk, soul, and hip hop musical traditions. Hence, the visual branding behind GTA Funk is inspired by the intersection of these two cultures: Kung Fu and hip hop.

Artwork by @keilimusic
Collaboration with https://soundcloud.com/falcxne
Additional mastering and production by @maxx-mortimer and Jason Tan (Eastward Audio)

GTA FUNK

KEI-LI x Falcxne - Bounce | 'GTA FUNK' Ep

Stream / Buy : dtw.lnk.to/atmnjams

Autumn often feels like a season of reflections and changes, and with our new compilation, we wanted to share with our community some of the sounds that we have been recently into. Featuring a global roster of music makers like Neguim (Brazil), MadD3e (Rome), ECHLN (South Africa) and Ricky Razu (Belguim), 'AUTUMN JAMS' takes you through a journey of soul-laden frequencies - warm electronic bubblers to sample-based house cuts. It's always essential to progress and evolve, and we hope this compilation will be an integral part of your Autumn.

Shouts to @kayloo-sound, @rickyrazu, @whossounds, @echln, @iindman, @neguim_beats and @camillalunamusic

Compiled by @funk-bast-rd
Artwork by @funk-bast-rd

Ricky Razu - The Way Luv Goes

>> smarturl.it/echlnsway

ECHLN - Feels So Right (feat. Hunter Rose & https://soundcloud.com/silo-beats) | 'SWAY' Ep

ECHLN gives a new lease of life to music coming out from South Africa. Born in Pretoria and now living in Cape Town, the sound engineer and producer, who lists Pharrell and Chad Hugo as his key inspirations, describes his sound as “something you’d hear from LA...more of an international sound with my own twist.” 
This personal twist lends an edgy take to the revered west coast sound that is reflected in his latest 4 track EP, SWAY. You hear his thoughts out loud as he 
cleverly joins the dots between house, funk, hip-hop, soul, with the percussive 
and rhythm very reminiscent of The Neptunes. Enlisting the help of DTW mainstay silo for 'Feels So Right', with the sensual vocals of Shirah Cheezer, Hunter Rose and Vuyo Renene, an enigmatic appeal has been added to the body of his work - the overall composition of SWAY designates ECHLN as a producer at the top of his field.

Composed by Kwetsima Maluleke, Kayla Makka and Mathias Collet (silo)
Bass Guitar by Zwide Ndwandwe
Mixed by Kwetsima Maluleke
Produced by ECHLN
Mastered by Versed Sound

SWAY

Stream / Buy

ECHLN - Feels So Right (feat. Hunter Rose & silo) | 'SWAY' Ep 10th Nov

buy here

Evil Needle - Synthy Sunshine (Homeworks EP) DTW 10

Evil Needle - Another Smooth Ride

Buy Vinyl/LP : darkerthanwax.bandcamp.com/album/all-rise
Buy/Stream: darker-than-wax.lnk.to/AllRise

OUT NOW

While jazz and funk are at the core of @michelemanzo 's musical foundation, the Italian artist deftly draws upon his inspirations in hip-hop, dub, and Brazilian music as both an instrumentalist and producer. But above genres, inimitable grooves are the key driver of his work, and in his grooves one can hear the vibe of a moment being captured and perpetuated for eternity. With this combination of musical depth and raw feeling, it is no surprise Michele has crossed paths with Darker Than Wax, and we feel truly blessed to present his LP ‘ALL RISE’ to the world.

‘ALL RISE’ is a genuine reflection of Manzo’s art form, which sees so many different styles and influences coming together in the most natural, organic way. Everything was recorded live using bass, synth bass, guitar, old analogue keyboards, blended together with modern synths, dub delays and ambient fx - giving off the familiar warmth of boom bap and progressive stimulation of neo-soul. The pervasive harmonies and clever use of chords give the album a real musical depth, but grounded with an effortless, natural approach to creation.

More than just showcasing Michele’s musical prowess and mastery of the instrumental, ‘ALL RISE’ is also a deeply collaborative effort. The chemistry with heavyweight collaborators like Georgia Anne Muldrow, Dudley Perkins, Nicholas Ryan Gant and RayClev is incredible - they
compliment his instrumental tapestry with poetic ammo, elevating “ALL RISE” to a level of virtuous artistry.

The five vocal cuts also offer a sober reflection on the turbulent social climate of 2019 America, and the world at large. Police violence, racism, and growing divisions that dominate the current zeitgeist are examined front and centre, most prominently by Dudley Perkins on the title track. Yet despite such a worrying state of affairs, there is an underlying message of positivity triumphing, and a rallying call to destroy evil at its root rather than be consumed by it. ‘ALL RISE’ is about people standing up and uniting, being brought together by a common spirit and emotional music.

Credits:
Guest vocals by RayClev
Artwork by @funk-bast-rd

Michele Manzo - Another Day In LA (feat. RayClev)[ALL RISE LP]

Buy: https://kaye.bandcamp.com/album/sam-pearl-vol-2

Label co-founder Kaye kick off the year with another drop of his Sam Pearl series of club-tested, dancer-approved edits. Building on the success of Vol. 1 and his highly played Bollywood edits, Vol. 2 features four cuts that have been lighting up dancefloors at Darker Than Wax parties for a minute now. ‘Gotta Keep’ and ‘Beat Goes On’ distill the indulgent sound of two disco classics into peak time weapons, while ‘Wu Tang Brought Me Here’ is a slow building injection of smooth soul. On the housier side of things, ‘Fuzz Wuz Redux’ sees Kaye revisiting a crucial Cosa Nostra track from the early days of the label. Essential cuts to add a touch of soul to any dancefloor.

All Track Edited, Mixed, and Mastered by Kaye

Artwork by Daryl Chan

Kaye - Wu Tang Brought Me Here (Sam Pearl Vol. 2)

Luviia - Swinging along (Forthcoming 'P2P Feelings' Ep / DTW 19)

| conscious creation | #WeMove

www.darkerthanwax.com

>> DTW FM w/ @marcoweibel + @mawkus | Every Saturday | 12pm-2pm (EST)
Broadcasting Live from The Lot Radio | www.thelotradio.com
Show Archive: @darkerthanwax-radio

>> DTW Show on Worldwide Fm with https://soundcloud.com/funk-bast-rd every 3rd Tues of the month | 1-3pm GMT

Artists : 
http://www.darkerthanwax.com/artists/

Demos : 
submissions(at)darkerthanwax.com  

Shows : 
bookings(at)darkerthanwax.com

Press :
darkerthanwax(at)gmail.com

Popular tracks by DARKER THAN WAX