Timmo’s debut Drumcode release ‘We Beat On’ carries a flow through out that gives Timmo his own unique sound that has captured the ears of many highly revered techno DJ’s around the world. Timmo uses hypnotic sounds and phrases whilst he always maintains a thumping techno beat that underlies all the tracks within this EP to maximum effect. Furthermore, there is a ghostly feel amongst Timmo’s tracks that really provide him with his acquired sound, the pads in ‘Canvas’ are a beautiful reminder of this. Timmo also uses strong synth stabs to full effect that juxtapose against the drums to help create the tension and aggression that is present within techno.

Timmo - Bloom - Drumcode - DC125

After the success of the first A-sides compilation in 2012, Adam Beyer has decided its time to release another. With Adam’s stature steadily growing as one of the leading talents in the Techno scene and the rise of Drumcode, the standard of demo’s that have been sent to Adam have been top notch. Adam has now decided to release two compilations with 10 tracks each, consisting of tracks that Adam has tried and tested. There are also new artists that have been invited to release on Drumcode for this compilation and others who are a staple in Drumcode’s core family. Combining both old and new talents Drumcode have come up with something unique and distinctive to make this two-part compilation something extra special.

Gary Beck - Marrow - Drumcode - DC128

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.

Victor Calderone - Requiem - Drumcode - DC142

Tuku Tuku (Short Play)

Buy on bandcamp

Jp Chronic - Tuku Tuku (Short Play)

Christian Smith is back to Drumcode with a full force, high energy EP. ‘Force Majeure’, consisting of three driving techno tracks, is laced with energetic crescendos, thumping kick drums and deep bass lines. The stirring samples and entrancing percussion used alongside the powerful production really showcase Smith’s diversity and talent as a producer – this EP is not to be missed.


Christian Smith - Force Majeure - Drumcode - DC158

Up first is Get Enough, seven minutes of seductive techno that has an almost machine-gun like disco synth firing across the groove. It is a rumbling peak time track with real force and energy that will bring any floor to life. The title track, Toleranz, is a gritty and stripped back basement cut with dry hits and burrowing acid bass that takes you deep into the night. Cobra then proves this pair have real breadth in the studio and is a barrel chested house cut with more big hits, rib rattling bass and incendiary techno hi hats that really get you on your toes. Remixing are the tech duo of Pleasurekraft, whose releases on Octopus and Mood Records have won them plenty of DJ and dancing fans. They layer in some dark melodies to SQ80 and build it steadily before allowing the militant drums and crisp snares to explode and drive you and the whole club forwards.

Kaiserdisco  - Toleranz - Drumcode - DC163

DC172 comes on behalf of Brazilian born Vinicius Honorio, a now London based producer and DJ who is making some serious in-roads amongst a new breed of techno artists. Having already released on labels such as Pig&Dan’s Elevate and dubspeeka’s Skeleton, the next natural step in his progression comes in the form of a release on Drumcode. 

‘Through The Darkness’ is a masterclass in darkened techno grooves, with each one of the four tracks managing to show off Honorio’s skill as a producer and just why he is firing on all cylinders. The release kicks off with ‘Walking Shadow’, a track that has been a key part of Adam Beyer’s sets at the tail end of 2016 and in to the new year. This tense, brooding affair has certainly garnered a lot of attention of late and it’s clear to see why. The title track ‘Through The Darkness’ is a much more of a stripped back cut, jam-packed with a haunting vocal hook, driving basslines and slick drums. This is one for the late night mischief makers. ‘Desolate’ is another hard-hitter, managing to perfectly balance that signature Honorio groove and pounding drums that adds depth to his productions. The release closes with the atmospheric ‘Out For Blood’, which is loaded with vintage rave stabs and weighty basslines – This one is meant to played in dark and sweaty rooms.

Vinicius Honorio - Desolate - Drumcode - DC172

The seventh volume of Drumcode’s annual A-Sides compilation hits with no less than 10 debuts for the label, with Charlotte de Witte, ANNA, B.Traits and Scuba’s SCB project, among the collection of topline artists to release their maiden productions on the imprint. 

Over two decades into its lifespan, Drumcode keeps evolving and excelling, pushing techno forward while remaining wholly respectful of its roots. This reputation for progression was further fueled this summer with its inaugural festival at the NDSM Docklands in Amsterdam, featuring a long list of heavyweights including Nicole Moudaber, Joseph Capriati, Amelie Lens and Ida Engberg, among others. 

As ever, the A-Sides compilation provides a timely opportunity to showcase the full range of its sonic repertoire, with Adam Beyer scrupulously selecting 22 unreleased tracks that have taken prime position in his sets over recent months. 

Outstanding all-round talent ANNA kicks off the compilation with ‘Portable Paradise’, a pulsating cut that sets the tone for the top-shelf club cuts to follow. Also entering the debut field with their first ever Drumcode dalliances are B.Traits and Charlotte de Witte. The esteemed Canadian selector offers up ‘I Feel The Music’, a euphonic track that’s been sought after since spring, and the Belgian ballista unlocks a thick-edged club bomb in ‘Remember.’

Leaders of Drumcode’s new brigade, exciting Brazilian Wehbba and British techno alchemist Boxia set out to impress. Wehbba’s straight-talking ‘Just’ hits with an immediate sense of urgency before neck-snap claps strike with force, and Boxia’s ‘Final Call’ elicits physical engagement with mellifluous vocals and soaring pads. 

Continuously looking to bolster the profiles of emerging talent, Berlin-based producers Weska and Juliet Fox are brought into the fold with equally engaging razor-sharp tracks that are primed to do lasting damage. 

Other notable highlights include an exhilarating workout from Reset Robot - the most released artist on Beyer’s imprint Truesoul – as he lands on Drumcode for the first time. And tastemaker’s favourite Jel Ford makes a welcome return as he ushers in techno rhythms with bustling breaks in ‘Nightshade.’

Elsewhere, support from label mainstays comes in from Bart Skils, who offers a work of consummate skill in ‘West Of The Moon.’ Alan Fitzpatrick, who’s been heavily featured across the A-Side series, joins forces with Scuba as he operates as his uncompromising alias SCB. The result is a propulsive floor-gripper that testifies to their masterful deftness as co-producers. Formidable duos Dense & Pika and Pig&Dan also contribute with powerful compositions.

Pig&Dan - Pushing On - Drumcode - DC195

A blistering buddy to the first instalment of Pig&Dan’s ‘Tunnel Vision’ EP will land in April. 

Not one to rest on their laurels, Pig&Dan have come out firing in 2020. One of the techno genre’s most prolific artists, their 17 year has seen a wealth and consistency of output unmatched by most in the industry. This is exemplified by the ‘Tunnel Vision’ series launched on Drumcode this year.

Set for release just one week after its predecessor, part 2 continues in powerful, peak-time mode. ‘Sirenism’ is a tour de force, driven by a pulsating lead that pops with acidic undertones. ‘Rinse Out The Sound’ is an intoxicating blend of warbled effects, warm synth layers and crisp drum work. ‘Perception’ is marked by an exuberant top line riff and steely percussive layers and makes for a colourful addition to any set. ‘Wasted’ is muscular techno at its finest, finished with a glistening layer of melody. No surprise the collection went down a treat at Warehouse Project, Drumcode Halloween and Dockyard Festival, among others. The duo are in irresistible form.

Tunnel Vision II

Pig&Dan — Wasted — Drumcode — DC222

Bart Skils kicks off the three-track single with ‘Fight Club’. Using rolling drums, ‘Fight Club’ builds to a crescendo before the unusual melodic synth phrase bursts in to give the track a distinctive character. ‘Base Camp’ uses a throbbing, militant style synth that emanates in and out to add dynamic and tension. ‘Tracking Down’ uses atmospheric pads to construct a thick build up before a funky, melodic line kicks in to give ‘Tracking Down’ a different feel to the others.

DC114 - Bart Skils - Tracking Down - Drumcode

Independent record label owned by Adam Beyer.