Using rolling percussion and a thumping kick, Luigi’s four track EP starts with a bang as the title suggests; ‘Primo’ really is unbeatable! Luigi uses synth stabs that add character and finesse to this outstanding piece of music. ‘I Believe’ uses dubby drums and an infectious vocal to really tear things apart before dropping into a melodic synth section that will make anyone move. Tantra’s melodic groove synths help this early morning track really come into its own before the main melodic section, accompanied by strings, will take any clubber to their own dimension. Hypnotizek rounds off the EP being more upfront about where it’s going. This cheeky, groove based track will warm up a dance floor quickly and get people in the mood for a real party!

DC122 - Luigi Madonna - I Believe - Drumcode

The Drumcode A-Sides compilation is quickly becoming synonymous within the techno world as a go to compilation for the hottest tracks that are deservedly A-side material in their own right. Each specific track has it own unique character that brings an outstanding and electrifying aspect to the compilation that as a whole makes it something extremely special. Mixing both highly experienced and new artists has helped to bring a new dimension to the compilation that makes it such a special array of tracks.

Sidney Charles - Milo - Drumcode DC142

UNDULERA

Highlighting sets everywhere from Awakenings during ADE to Spazio 900 in Rome, the tracks are hard-hitting master studies in industrial-edged techno. ‘Going Down’ is built around a deep menacing vocal, as subterranean bass drums, thundering kicks and a sinister synth line combine for a high impact finish. ‘Future’ is a chunky stomper perfect for the winter warehouse party season, as multi-layered synths and effects rub shoulders with heavy-set drums to ensure this one hits its target.

Adam Beyer Vs Dense & Pika - Going Down - Drumcode - DC166

Spektre - Halcyon

DC175 comes courtesy of Alias, a new project comprising of Harvey & Ryan McKay, who are two acts who have previously released solo material on the label. Harvey McKay’s last appearance was in late 2016 when he dropped ‘The Mad Drummer’ on A-Sides Vol. 4 whereas Ryan McKay’s last outing was in 2015 when he appeared on A-Sides Vol.3 under the name Skiver. This is the first collaborative project between the Scottish duo under their new moniker Alias.

The EP opens with ‘Pentatonic’; A tough sounding track that has been designed for the forward-thinkers. ‘The Truth’ follows up sharply, with vintage piano stabs and a vocal that gives the track abounding energy. The on-point percussion leads you on a trip of pure rapture. The release closes with the apocalyptic ‘Dream Taker’, which is teeming with sinister vocal action, hostile synth work and a sublime way to sign off.

Alias - The Truth - Drumcode - DC175

When I played in Belgrade I met this talented newcomer Ilija Djokovic who played a great set before me. He sent me his tunes and I was so impressed that I put one of his tracks on my essential mix right away.
I hope you enjoy these deep soulful techno release as much as I do plus a funky Hatzler remix! (Monika Kruse)

Ilija Djokovic - Andromeda

Luigi Madonna & Roberto Capuano – Midfield EP [SNDST035]

1: Midfield
2: Wendy
3: Dark Soul 

For our next release we look south to two of Italy’s finest exports and rising stars: Luigi Madonna and Roberto Capuano. Both hailing from the coastal city of Naples, the two have been on fire for some time now and their ‘Midfield’ EP is a perfect representation of their approach and sound that is winning dancers the world over. Kicking things off is the title track ‘Midfield’ with infectious percussion, hefty drums and an absolutely unforgettable lead that will, without any doubt, create full on dance floor mayhem. ‘Wendy’ follows up with rapid fire drumming and a soul drenched vocal laid over a booming kick drum resulting in a simple yet highly effective sonic excursion. Rounding out the EP is ‘Dark Soul’ which does the job using only percussive elements like racing shakers and colossal, crunchy impacts balanced perfectly with a lush vocal shot placed a few times throughout the track in the most effective moments. – In short, three stunning tunes from our Italian cohorts Luigi Madonna and Roberto Capuano to be played loud and often!

@robertocapuano
@luigimadonna
@secondstateaudio

Luigi Madonna & Roberto Capuano - Wendy

Markantonio’s label AnalyticTrail welcomes an imprint debut from BEC who after making a name for herself on Pan-Pot’s Second State has also releases on Carl Cox’s Intec amongst others of a high calibre.

BEC is one of techno’s leading ladies quickly rising through the ranks of the genre, and with this EP she becomes a part of AnalyticTrail’s roster of artists which already includes the likes of Joseph Capriati, Flug, Matt Sassari and Luigi Madonna.

Originally from the UK but currently based in Berlin, she is also a popular DJ still relatively early in her career and has already played in many parts of the world as far flung as Australia.

Each of the four tracks brings something different to the EP with the title cut having morphing acid and a captivating vocal sample that gives it its title. Still dark and pounding “Eclipse” is a trippy take on a similar set of sounds with the addition of a grinding bassline, and “One Chance” closes things with its melodic synth stabs layered with industrial percussion.