The Hypnagogic Cassette Deck: A Musical Exploration of 1980s Cultural Nostalgia

me and michael

In the cold and dreary winter of 2009, alone in his bedroom and hidden from the darkness of the world outside Justin Paul Vallesteros had begun working on something that would change his life forever. What began as a couple notes played in experimentation soon transformed into vibrant melodies that soon shook Vallesteros’ musical foundation to the core. Guitar chords laced over pulse sating synth melodies and drum rhythms was a departure from Justin’s previous work; he began to create the dreamy nostalgic pop music that is Craft Spells. Justin is a California native who now finds residence in the mid-size town of Stockton, the heart of California. Craft Spells is the epitome of the recent uprising of the DIY music scene. Coming from a place not known for its musical history or impact on music culture it seemed destined for Craft Spells to stay as a bedroom pop project with no final destination in sight. But soon the shear amount of blog volume his work began to generate was unimaginable. Sites like Weekly Tape Deck, Pasta Primavera, No Modest Bear and Pitchfork’s Forkcast took notice and thus began the never ending worldwide posting and re-posting on blog after blog of Craft Spells. The sound is led by Justin’s blissful voice, backed behind beautiful guitar melodies over heavenly synths, pop basslines and looped rhythms. Captured Tracks has released 7” single for the song “Party Talk” and will release the debut LP due out in Spring 2011 called Idle Labor. 2011 is going to be a busy year now that Justin has set up a live band for future touring. Keep a look out for tour dates in Europe and US come the new year. In no time at all, Justin has been able to move out of Dave Brubeck and Pavement’s shadow to create something his own which he shares with the ever continuing admiration of the world.

From the Morning Heat

Part Time - Night Drive

Ariel Pink - Lipstick

Download/Stream - https://fanlink.tv/KMOMF
Subscribe - @reelpeoplemusic

Reel People Music proudly presents the first single from Sebb Junior’s hotly anticipated new album La Vie D’Artiste — a standout summer soul jam titled “Knocks Me Off My Feet,” created in collaboration with UK soul collective Reel People and featuring the gorgeous vocals of US gospel and R&B talent Darlene McCoy.

“Knocks Me Off My Feet” oozes feel-good energy, blending classic modern soul and smooth R&B into a breezy, radio-ready groove. Sonically, it draws clear inspiration from the golden era of late ’70s and early ’80s soul—echoing the warm, melodic funk of The Gap Band, the uplifting anthems of Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, and the sensual, slow-burn magic of The Isley Brothers. Built around lush chords, tight rhythm guitar, and sun-soaked keys, the track strikes a perfect balance between retro soul nostalgia and contemporary production polish. With its live instrumentation, irresistible chorus, and radiant energy, “Knocks Me Off My Feet” is tailor-made for summer soundtracks and timeless soul playlists alike.

On vocal duties is GRAMMY-nominated gospel singer, radio host, and actress Darlene McCoy, who brings warmth, character, and emotional weight to the record. A celebrated artist from Atlanta, Darlene’s voice is rich in conviction—lifting the song’s message of unexpected love and emotional surrender to soaring heights. It marks her debut with Reel People Music and a refreshing moment of soulful crossover magic.

Behind the music is French-born, Spain-based producer Sebb Junior, renowned for his prolific output in the deep and soulful house scene. A long-time favorite of DJs and dancers worldwide, Sebb brings his signature finesse to this more organic, groove-led production. “Knocks Me Off My Feet” also sees him reunite with Reel People, the UK collective and label behind a wave of genre-defining modern soul, broken beat, and house releases.

The single will be available both digitally and as a limited 7” vinyl, featuring original, radio, and instrumental versions.


RPM131ST

Knocks Me Off My Feet

Stream/Download

Knocks Me Off My Feet (Original Mix)

Future Islands - A Dream Of You And Me

An instrumental only cover of the Future Islands track "Ran" from their album The Far Field.

Future Islands - Ran

Alex Cameron - "Runnin' Outta Luck" from 'Forced Witness,' out Sept. 8, 2017 on Secretly Canadian

Pre-order 'Forced Witness:' alexcameron.lnk.to/forcedwitness

Alex Cameron - Runnin' Outta Luck

The War On Drugs - Holding On (live)

Listen/Download - http://smarturl.it/SB_IWasAFool

I Was A Fool

The Don

Working Out

George Clanton is Back™
"Make It Forever" released officially on March 8th 2018 (today) marking the beginning of a new era. Listen now, and look for George in a city near you this Spring

George Clanton - Make It Forever

"Tal Uno" is the new single from Barrie out now on Winspear.

Keep up with Barrie: 
https://www.facebook.com/barrietheband
https://www.instagram.com/barrietheband
https://twitter.com/barrietheband

Produced by Billy Pavone, Barrie Lindsay, Noah Prebish
Mixed by Brother Michael Rudinski

Artwork by Aaron Denton
https://www.instagram.com/aaronlowell

The Hypnagogic Cassette Deck: A Musical Exploration of 1980s Cultural Nostalgia

Matausch