Mixes

Ransom Note welcome @Lunar_Orbit_Rendezvous to the fold!
‘Faith/Reason’ is Out Now - https://ransom-note-records.lnk.to/Faith-Reason

Renamed and reinvigorated from his former LOR incarnation a few years back, Belfast producer Gregory Ferguson has created a textured landscape of aural oddities that take the LP form of an ambient tapestry. Faith/Reason traverses the boundaries of space we find in the twilight hours when the world stands still for a second and we're reminded of the fragility of the lives we inhabit.

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Lunar Orbit Rendezvous - Faith/Reason [Ransom Note Records #28]

IN THE MIDDLE @Bawrut
Out Nov 12th on Ransom Note Records - https://ransom-note-records.lnk.to/IntheMiddle

Our love affair with Ransom Note stalwart BAWRUT  started five years ago with his first stone cold classic EP ‘Ciquita’. Now ‘In the Middle’ his debut LP presents a new sound. A striking eleven-track journey through sunset pop, electronic melancholia and delusive migrations taking place around the Mediterranean. 

5% of the album profits will be donated to Open Arms, a non-profit non-governmental organisation dedicated to protect those who try to reach Europe by sea, fleeing from armed conflict, persecution or poverty https://www.openarms.es/

Listen + Pre-Order

Bawrut - In the Middle [Ransom Note Records #29]

Hot Air Podcast Series

The street was alive with hustle and bustle as people shouted from apartment windows down to friends below and music played loud from boomboxes on the corners. It was a hot day in the city, the type that might make you sweat. The rumble of the trains could be heard all day long, people being taken from place to place, wherever that might be. He sat there taking all this in, perched upon his park bench, smoking a cigarette, watching as the world went wearily by. This was his city, his funk. 

Black Loops appear on a new compilation for Hudd Traxx, a celebration of the fifteen years that the label has been in existence. It's an impressive feat, especially considering the consistency and dependability of the imprint which has released music by the likes of Dj Sneak, Iron Curtis, Nightmares On Wax, Chez Damier, Rick Wade and many more. 

This track is an ode to house in the deepest, truest of senses.

PREMIERE: Black Loops - Forster Funk [Hudd Traxx]

She knew a thing or two about suffering; in fact she could probably write a whole book about it. All the cliches had been thrown her way: 'every cloud has a silver lining', 'what doesn't kill you makes you stronger', 'when one door closes, another door opens' and so on... She'd learnt to smile and nod, rather than retort with sarcasm. That said, with each strike or set back there had always been an evaluation, a lesson or a coping mechanism she'd take away and apply to the next situation.

As a way of connecting cities and artists during lockdown, Offenbach's Live At Robert Johnson and Leipzig’s Riotvan have joined forces for a new collaborative release, 'PLAYRVN001'. Made up of five tracks that link up two artists, the EP gives us a window into the sonic foundations of each imprint and the synergy between them both. Collaborations come from Roman Flügel & Rebolledo, Jennifer Touch & Chinaski, New Hook and Perel, Fort Romeau & Panthera Krause and Horkheimer & Peter Invasion & Gregor Habicht, spanning everything from synth pop to cosmic disco, breakbeat and Italo.

V/A - Live At Robert Johnson x Riotvan

PREMIERE: New Hook & Perel - The Lambs Suffer [Live At Robert Johnson / Riotvan]

Ransom Note welcome @lunar_orbit_rendezvous to the fold!
New single out now - https://ransom-note-records.lnk.to/Faith-Reason

Renamed and reinvigorated from his former LOR incarnation a few years back, Belfast producer Gregory Ferguson has created a textured landscape of aural oddities that take the LP form of an ambient tapestry. Faith/Reason traverses the boundaries of space we find in the twilight hours when the world stands still for a second and we're reminded of the fragility of the lives we inhabit.

Faith/Reason

Lunar Orbit Rendezvous - A Dawn

Artist: https://soundcloud.com/lunar_orbit_rendezvous
Track: Faith/Reason
Label: https://soundcloud.com/ransom-note-records
Format: Cassette  Tape & Digital, LP
Release date: 16/7/21
Purchase: https://lunarorbitrendezvous.bandcamp.com/album/faith-reason

Ransom Note welcome Lunar Orbit Rendezvous to the fold. Renamed and reinvigorated from his former LOR incarnation a few years back, Belfast producer Gregory Ferguson has created a textured landscape of aural oddities that take the LP form of an ambient tapestry. Faith/Reason traverses the boundaries of space we find in the twilight hours when the world stands still for a second and we're reminded of the fragility of the lives we inhabit.

Lunar Orbit Rendezvous - Faith/Reason

YouTube

PREMIERE | Lunar Orbit Rendezvous - Faith/Reason [Ransom Note Records] 2021

The days were shorter and the nights were dark and cold, it was times like these that he dreamed and drifted off. He'd reminisce upon the sun kissed nights of the summer, when the air was warm and thick with love, if only we had one more night like that in which to dance. Wandering through the quiet streets he occasionally caught a glimpse into the homes and houses of the cities endless strangers, he wandered what life might be like in the ethereal bubble in which they lived. He was not a part of such a world, a lonely soul lost walking in the night, looking for the next place to go. 

Liam Mour is set to release a new EP, this one has a big dream house mood. Melancholy, emotional, deep, pensive club music at its very best.

PREMIERE: Liam Mour - If We Only Had

There were some landscapes that simply took your breath away; the kind that made you feel like a tiny speck on this thing we call planet earth. The canyon below was a sight to behold, its huge stone surfaces coated in tones of copper and green. If you squinted hard enough you could trace clusters of tiny humans exploring the winding paths, tunnels and bridges that littered the expanse. It felt somewhat magical or metaphysical; a natural wonder of the world...

It's been almost a decade since Italian producers Rodion and Fabrizio Mammarella teamed up for a collaborative EP on the latter's Slow Motion imprint. Like their first outing, Apennini, back in 2012 this new release proves yet again why these two are a perfect production pairing, fusing their shared love of synthesized melodies and machine-driven funk and disco. The duo continue this across their Sierra Madre EP, which was recorded in Mexico City with a guest appearance from Roam Records and Duro alumni Mijo, and backed by a rework from Italo-Belgian duo Front De Cadeaux.

Sierra Madre

PREMIERE: Rodion & Mammarella - Barranca Del Cobre [Slow Motion]

JE ‘O TTENG E T’O DDÒNG’
New single Out Now - https://ransom-note-records.lnk.to/JE-O-TTENG-E-TO-DDONG

JE ‘O TTENG E T’O DDÒNG'

Bawrut & LIBERATO - JE ‘O TTENG E T’O DDÒNG'

The clouds began to roll in from out in the bay, the city darkened as their deep, dense grey shrouded the tall buildings and skyscrapers in a thick fog. This was the rainy season and it was time to return indoors. Long gone were the days of radiant blue sunshine and glorious heat. Some had said that this winter might be particularly cruel, it was time to retreat back to the house. 

Post Sonics is a newly formed record label to emerge from Helsinki, it has been formed by the crew behind the acclaimed club Post Bar. Like many other venues the club has struggled in the wake of the pandemic and so the label was born with the desire to inspire creativity and keep things focussed during the ongoing crisis. This is now the first record which they have put out on vinyl - a pacey affair destined to delight in the club.

Now We're Fucking Doing It

PREMIERE: emkay - Housche (Sansibar Tekkimix)[Post Sonics]

Lunar Orbit Rendezvous - Karesuando

There's a collective musical spirit in Bristol which makes it a very special place to reside. Spaces like Strangebrew, The Love Inn and Noods Radio have become hubs for the music community within the city; the latter of which has recently secured a permanent home at its own cafe and bar, Mickey Zoggs.

It's in this fine new establishment that today's mix was recorded, courtesy of two of Noods residents, Bruce and Dar Disku. The pair have made plenty of moves in their own right. Bruce has been a key figure in the city for some time, releasing music on local mainstays like Timedance, Idle Hands and Hessle Audio, while Dar Disku - a label and collective made up of Mazen Almaskati and Vish Mhatre - have been treating listeners to their contemporary take on rarities from the Middle East.

Recorded in May, over an hour and a half Bruce and one member of Dar Disku, Vish, embark on a global expedition through Belgian new beat, Arabic oddities, noughties hip hop and free jazz...

Bruce & Dar Disku: The 'Ransom Note' Mix

Thick panels of mahogany wood stretched from the floor to the ceiling, leaving the room feeling dark and claustrophobic. As she entered she felt all eyes fall on her, though she tried her best to avoid meeting anyone's glare. As she arrived at her seat, the stoney-faced judge entered from a side door, not giving anything away. As the gavel hit the soundblock, she felt her heart drop into her stomach. 

After notching up EPs for the likes of Lobster Theremin and Ophism, London-based Irishman Céilí readies the first LUCKYBAG release on his own Mála Ádh imprint. A V/A made up of friends and family, the six-track record hits you square in the face with a pummeling selection of gabber, rave and techno-influenced cuts, from artists like DJ Ketaflush, Cressida, Julien Andreas, Wheez-ie, MarcelDune and Céilí, himself.

PREMIERE: MarcelDune - Grey Court [Mála Ádh]

Next up is a man who needs little introduction, one of the foremost figures in Garage and perhaps the greatest of them all? We'll let you be the judge of that. 

Todd Edwards has been releasing music for almost thirty years, he remains one of the definitive pioneers of the genre which first emerged in the UK during the mid 90's. His influence has been profound and there was a period of time in which major artists would demand a remix from Todd to certify their release. He's Grammy award winning after all. 

Anyway, this mix was delivered off the back of a release for Defected in which Todd released 140 tracks of original material, remixes and edits. Some unheard and an unreleased previously. This seemed like as good an opportunity as ever to ask him to return to the wheels of steel to showcase why he is still just as influential and important to UKG as ever before. 

You are in the presence of a legend.

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Todd Edwards: The Ransom Note Mix

You couldn't see anything in front of you; the darkness shrouded the trees and any living organisms inhabiting them. By day these woods felt magical but at night it felt as though something sinister were afoot – as though there were unidentified creatures waiting to pounce in the shadows. These speculations would remain as such for those who'd been foolish enough to enter had never returned to tell the tale.

Bristol-based composer and audio-visual artist Surgeons Girl caught our attention with her EP for Livity Sound last winter. Now she follows that up with an outing for London's Inside Out Records titled 'The Empress Moss': four tracks that showcase her knack for creating enchanting sonics. Coming from a classical music background, she marries this approach with her passion for analogue hardware and love of ambient and techno sounds, inviting Ombra International boss Curses to take on the remix.

PREMIERE: Surgeons Girl - Dark Moss Night Terror (Curses Remix) [Inside Out Rec]

Over the past few months we have been focussing our attention on some of Glasgow's most influential local DJ's - we wanted to spotlight some of those who have worked hard behind the scenes to form residencies and develop their own pathways. 

Quail + AISHA are two residents at Animal Farm, a long running Glaswegian institution which has become widely known for its forward thinking approach to techno. As a party series Animal Farm has played host to the likes of Surgeon, Regis, Blawan, Anthony Parasole and Marcel Dettmann. However, these big names have often been shrouded and deemed secondary to the supremely talented local DJ's who have breathed life into this party for many years. Animal Farm has become a place to channel the harder, darker fringes of experimental dance and electronic music and this is perhaps more so the case than ever before as this mix from Quail and AISHA demonstrates. 

Forget Monday, this one is all about the Friday night. The pair will appear this summer at Riverside Festival and are sure as hell to blow the roof off.

Quail + AISHA: The 'Shine A Light On' Mix

It's sometimes unexplainable; it can be simply a feeling and not always something tangible. Of course you're drawn in by landscapes or delicious cuisines, by the pace of life and the lifelong friends you make connections with. When you visit a new city, the questions swirl around your head 'can I see myself living here?', 'can I drop my life back home and start afresh here?' If the answers are yes, you might have some planning to do... 

After playing one of System 108's regular events in Moscow, Omnidisc boss Danny Daze became enchanted by the city and the crew behind the party-turned-label, so much so he extended his flight. He channels that passion for the Russian capital into his new release for System 108; a split EP alongside one of his production heroes and friends, Anthony Rother. Inspired by and dedicated to Moscow's atmosphere, the pair's Binary EP is a blend of raw dancefloor-orientated techno and electro, with the title track getting a remix from Etapp Kyle and Tarra who twit it into a bass-driven electro cut.

Follow: @system108

PREMIERE: Danny Daze - Moscow (Etapp Kyle & Tarra Remix) [System 108]

These four walls had become his sanctuary; he considered himself something of a hermit these days. This was a far cry away from how he used to be: he was once a social butterfly, he knew everybody and everybody knew him. He thrived on making connections, on meeting new people and experiencing new things but something had shifted. Now the only company he needed was his own...

Kim Ann Foxman takes care of the next release on her own Firehouse Recordings: an imprint focused on all corners of house music. Dripping with nostalgia and conjuring up feelings of being back in the rave, something we've been missing over the last year, the two originals on 'Connection' flaunt revving, hypnotic bass lines, soaring synths and enchanting vocal snippets. Both come complete with remixes from Klasse Wrecks' Luca Lozano and Optimo and Biologic producer Matisa.

Kim Ann Foxman - Connection (incl. Luca Lozano / Matisa Remixes)

PREMIERE: Kim Ann Foxman - Connection (Luca Lozano Remix) [Firehouse]

Dusk was falling as they'd entered the space, ready to embrace everything that came their way. The pulsing sounds had absorbed them from the moment they set foot inside; what came after felt like a whirlwind, their memories becoming lost in a haze of sweaty bodies and enchanting rhythms. Bright light greeted them when they left, feeling as though they'd been chewed up and spat back out - yet it was nothing they wouldn't relive over and over again.

Siamese Twins' co-founder Sunju Hargun has been making moves over the last couple of years, both solo, as part of Mogambo and with the releases on his Bangkok-based imprint. After gracing the label a few times with the more downtempo side of his creations, Sunju makes his way to Taiwan's 禁JIN for two tracks that are guaranteed to have you drifting up into the cosmos. Backed by two remixes from Barcelona's Marc Pinol and Taipei's own Initials B.B., Sunju's originals are an ode to the sounds of classic trance and acid, with both set to light up dancefloors across the world.

PREMIERE: Sunju Hargun - Chale [禁JIN]

The waves rolled in against the shore, he watched perched from atop a cliff in the distance looking back at the town in the distance. Out here in the countryside it was breezy and fresh, the wind blew roughly against face of the rock and the sun beamed down hot from up above. Far away he could see boats dotted upon the horizon, small silhouettes and shadows against a backdrop of deep radiant blue where the sea meets the sky. He wondered where they were travelling towards...

Manuel Darquart return to Wolf Music with a fresh sun kissed EP which features a downtempo street soul from themselves and a remix from balearic maestro Don Carlos who somehow manages to make every record he touches sound like the soundtrack to a perfect island moment.

PREMIERE: Manuel Darquart - Keep It DXy (Don Carlos Remix) [Wolf Music]

There was a rage bubbling deep inside of him, it boiled and burnt his brain just to think of the malice and mischief it might cause if it were to ever be unleashed upon the sorry few. It was never supposed to end like this, not at all. However, when all was said and done, bad blood was and always would be bad blood. There was little he could do to change his feeling towards them, never mind forgive what they'd done all those many years ago. Looking back on it now he was naive, lessons had been learnt but now it was time to end the debate once and for all...

Nite Fleit is next up on Jensen Interceptor's infamous Australian record label, International Chrome. This is an imprint which never fails to disappoint and the latest record is no exception with Nite Fleit taking us on a whirlwind tour of leftfield electro sounds.

The Truth EP

PREMIERE: Nite Fleit - Bad Blood [International Chrome]

The quiet people were usually the most unassuming of all; they kept themselves to themselves, living a hermits life and never giving much away. But suddenly, as though the tide had gone out leaving them exposed, they revealed their true colours; underneath it all they had strength, fierceness and tenacity. They only chose to show it when they were forced to.

We've got a fresh label on our hands... p.istol is brought to life by Cape Town-based producer Biodive who offers up a four-track trip created during the depths of lockdown. Following releases for labels like Church and Coymix Ltd, his 'Limpets Minds' EP dives headfirst into trance-tinged sonics that are equal parts blissful and euphoric; including a beat-driven and beatless mix and a pacey early hours rework from NAFF boss Priori.

Limpet Minds

PREMIERE: Biodive - Limpets Minds (Priori Remix) [p.istol]

A Potion Activated. Give in to the temptation of The Forbidden Plum. Take a bite and let the juice drip. Your journey begins with a hypnotic seduction, stoking the flames of desire as the voice in your head whispers, Want it so badly. Dark and sexy, the flames get higher. The walls sweat on your descent as you lose control. Flood lights sweep over the crowd of bodies, cutting through smoke.

For several years now ISLA has been serving up the best in ambient, experimental and trance-driven creations, welcoming artists like Ambien Baby, D.Tiffany, Pillow Queen, NAP and Le Fe to the label. Next up they've called on Maara for 'A Potion Activated', marking her second EP following a debut on Priori and Ex-Terrestrial's NAFF imprint. Backed up by a remix and a collaboration from two label affiliates D.Tiffany and NAP, the release teeters 'between heaven and hell', delivering five trance-inducing rides into purgatory.

PREMIERE: Maara - The Forbidden Plum [ISLA]

It spun round and round, a myriad of possibilities and lifestyle choices built upon it, each as seemingly important as the last but of no greater meaning within the context of space. This was life on earth and it meant so very much to each individual and so very little to the greater good. This tiny planet simply floated against a deep dark backdrop in which wild stars danced, the sun shone brightly and the cosmos ushered in new dawns every day. For now it was all they had...

Arkajo is back - this one is a feisty, bass ready affair which features two unique tracks and two killer remixes from Forest Drive West and Ebende respectively. Ebende's remix is a fast and furious club driven track, a deep house bonanza pitched upwards and destined for the faster floors.

Arkajo - ARKAJO3

PREMIERE: Arkajo - Earth (Ebende Remix)[Arkajo]

It was a race against time, whoever made it to the finish line first would make it out alive — the same couldn't be said for the rest. The journey had been treacherous and many had been left behind, leaving only the most determined and strong-minded to find their way there in one piece. Competition had pitted them against one another, friendships had been severed, relationships ruined; now it was every man for themselves. 

With a catalogue that already boasts releases for Scuffed Records, Time Is Now Records and Mask Music, London's Fiesta Soundsystem is now bringing his rhythmic, bass-heavy workouts to Lauren Chalmers and Paul Patterson's Of Paradise imprint. Across the four tracks on ‘Not To Be' Fiesta Soundsystem gives us another taste of the sounds he's become synonymous with: slick, futuristic jungle and eerie DnB with plenty of bass to boot.

Not To Be

PREMIERE: Fiesta Soundsystem - Acid Tool [Of Paradise]

CROSSING FOR A GOLDEN BLANKET
Taken from the debut album 'In the Middle @Bawrut
Out Nov 12th on Ransom Note Records - https://ransom-note-records.lnk.to/IntheMiddle

5% of the album profits will be donated to Open Arms, a non-profit non-governmental organisation dedicated to protect those who try to reach Europe by sea, fleeing from armed conflict, persecution or poverty https://www.openarms.es/

_______________

Ransom Note stalwart BAWRUT presents a new sound in his debut album ‘In the Middle’, a striking eleven-track journey through sunset pop, electronic melancholia and delusive migrations taking place around the Mediterranean.

'Crossing for a Golden Blanket' is the first track to be lifted from the album. Perhaps the strongest and hardest hitting track on the LP, its message is reflected in the loops that never quite close, giving a sense of instability, shaping a dark digital sea with a refugee's makeshift dinghy about to capsize at its centre. The morse code S.O.S. announces the end of the struggle before a risky rescue. “The song ends between hope and uncertainty”.

The LP ‘In the Middle’ is a reflection on recent years. A story about movement and migration around the Mediterranean but also the notion of a moving identity. It’s about the luck of the drawer, finding yourself born in the middle of the ‘West’, whilst others strive to get here with the hope of a better life. It’s about being in the middle of music and cultures and the beautiful accidents that this movement has produced over the years. Above all, it’s a celebration of the beauty of the movement to a better life, to create something new, with hope and optimism whatever the circumstances. It’s a celebration of diversity and inclusivity.

“I was born in Gorizia, a city with a centuries-old, multi-ethnic identity literally split in two by a border (Italy and Slovenia) after the Second World War. Perhaps for this reason I have always felt closer and more aligned with the encounters between cultures and people, instead of the rigid idea of nationalism and the notion of a unique identity.
Through my music I try to combine languages and sounds to make a record that celebrates the union, the meeting and crossing of experiences.” – Bawrut

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PREMIERE: Bawrut - Crossing for a Golden Blanket [Ransom Note Records]

It were as if the wool had been pulled over his eyes to keep him blind and unaware of the wider, wonderful world out there. He'd been told tall tales and fantastic stories about what might lie beyond the confines of this small town but he'd never imagined it might ever be as magnificent and spectacular as this. This was perhaps the grandest deception of all - if only he could have seen it so simply. As he travelled through this magical new city, the place he now called home, he couldn't remember the faces of those who had caused such trouble long ago. 

Felix Benedikt aka Alpha Tracks is set to release a brilliant, club ready new EP on Blue Hour, a label which is having a special moment with the return of faster, bass driven trance and techno sounds. This EP is destined to do damage in big rooms and dark clubs.

Bye Bye Sky High

PREMIERE: Alpha Tracks - Grand Deception [Blue Hour]

On the outer fringes of the universe, they gathered to plot their takeover of planet earth. While human beings struggled to detect extra-terrestrial life, they had observed the actions and behaviours of human life for many years — identifying their weaknesses and their hardships. Much planning and preparation had been made for their journey, they just had to make it there in one piece.

Magic Carpet, the Lisbon-based imprint that's brought us releases from Baby Rollen, Phyzical Flex and Ramu, now returns with instalment number four: a four-track ride into the cosmos from Stockholm/Glasgow producer Planar Traits. Packed full of warm subs, driving breaks and intergalactic melodies, his debut is a welcome edition to a label that's fast becoming our go-to for mystical, otherworldly sonics.

RIDE04

PREMIERE: Planar Traits - Organ Track [Magic Carpet]

FE SAMAA @Bawrut @Glitter00
Taken from Bawrut debut album 'In the Middle'
Out Nov 12th on Ransom Note Records - https://ransom-note-records.lnk.to/IntheMiddle

Third single lifted from Bawrut’s upcoming LP ‘In the Middle’, ‘Fe Samaa’ features the Moroccan-born Paris-based DJ and singer گليثر٥٥ Glitter on vocals. The bittersweet track blends a balearic beat with lyrics in Arabic telling a story of movement, emigration, optimism and disappointment.

5% of the album profits will be donated to Open Arms, a non-profit non-governmental organisation dedicated to protect those who try to reach Europe by sea, fleeing from armed conflict, persecution or poverty www.openarms.es/

In the Middle

Bawrut & گليثر٥٥ Glitter -  في السماء (Fe Samaa)

The ceremony had begun. In a circle they sat - legs crossed, minds activated - following the softly spoken words of the shaman as he welcomed them in. The music travelled around the space: at times capturing their attention, at others sending them into a trance. As one they drank deeply, allowing the liquid to swirl and churn in their stomachs, before waiting for its final release and for their minds to truly open.

This time last year, Argentinian producer Balam landed on Lyon's Hard Fist Records, to pay tribute to the Latin rhythms and percussion that have become a signature in his productions. 'Chants of Pachamama Part 1' was a deep dive into these traditional sounds that Balam effortlessly fuses with contemporary electronics to create something completely his own.

This time, for the second and final instalment, he explores the ritual and practice of magic plants synonymous with the South American rainforest. Across the original tracks ceremonial chants and live percussion are layered over hypnotic modular synths and heavy bass lines, while on the flip Matias Aguayo closes proceedings with his own dark, twisted take on 'Wakax'.

PREMIERE: Balam - Wakax (Matias Aguayo Remix) [Hard Fist]

There were few constants in his life; locations, friendships, houses — they chopped and changed all the time. It was part and parcel of his career choice, he never stayed rooted in one place, even if he'd have liked to. There were times he'd felt like calling it a day, tapping out and finding something new to guide his path in life. But there was so much comfort in this vocation; come rain or come shine, he'd always be looked after. 

Stellar producers in their own right, Rec Room Berlin member LUZ1E and Goddess Music boss DJ Swagger first teamed up under the name DJ DOOM on the latter's imprint last year. Their sophomore excursion comes via Berlin's Warning imprint: a two-tracker that delivers different flavours on each side. While the A-side brings shimmering house peppered with the pair's sensual vocals, the flip is a breaks-driven ghetto tech track that's cut for the dance floor.

PREMIERE: LUZ1E & DJ Swagger pres. DJ DOOM - Come Rain Or Come Shine [Warning]

'Dreams don’t lie, reality is wrong': The manifesto for Pablo Bozzi & Kendal's INFRAVISION project is one we can get behind. Drawing inspiration from science fiction, 'Anticipations' and the disturbing era we're all living in, the Toulouse-born producers have fashioned their own distinct style that's captivated audiences from the get-go.

Their debut LP 'Illegal Future' on Fleisch was an introduction to the duo's slick, sexy, synth-driven sound: a concoction of Italo Disco, EBM, New Beat and Trance influences, brought into the present day, which they term Italo Body Music. 

Before joining forces, both had made names for themselves in their own right through their dark, fierce productions and DJ sets: Pablo Bozzi through his residency on HÖR, work with EGONlab and release for Phase Fatale's BITE, and Kendal via his Ritmo Fatale label and his releases for David Vunk's Moustache Records and Dischi Autunno, the Correspondant offshoot that Pablo has also released on.

After an unforgettable high-energy Boiler Room debut recently, we're treated to another side of INFRAVISION's tastes with this slow burner of a mix fictionally recorded in the Terminator's Tech-Noir club, Los Angeles.

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Kendal & Pablo Bozzi presents INFRAVISION: The 'Ransom Note' Mix

Ritual and routine had always dictated her life; spontaneity didn't come naturally, though she wished it did. From meal choices to work schedules, everything was perfectly planned and timed — no wasted days, no careless nights. Shaking these habits felt impossible, but she'd be damned if she didn't try. After all, if you don't break rules, you miss out on all the fun.

After cutting his teeth as a sound technician at Berlin's Watergate club, Belgian producer Biesmans made his debut on their in-house label, following it up with his debut LP last year 'Trains, Planes & Automobiles'. Now he brings his synth-laced sound to Amsterdam's Sinchi for a new single that comes complete with remixes from Utrecht's Tjade and Canibal & Jenouise's Zombies In Miami project, who provide their own takes on Biesman's analogue synth-disco cut. All profits from the release with be donated to the Sinchi Foundation, which supports indigenous people across the world.

PREMIERE: Biesmans - Careless Nights (Zombies in Miami Remix) [Sinchi]

As he entered the room onlookers watched him with beady eyes, they stared him down and took him in with menace and malice lingering in the air. This was not a safe space, not a place one might choose to spend much time or be caught lingering. However, whilst he was here he would not fear their hateful gaze for this was to be where he left it all behind as free as a bird. He was in step mode now, eagerly walking forwards into the light and as he stood perched in the centre of the room he began to move. 

Glimmerman is set to release a new EP on First Second Label, this one is a rock steady affair for the heads down dancers and the discerning listener. This record sits somewhere between bass, techno and dancehall - so genre that as you feel fit.

PREMIERE: Glimmerman - Step Mode [First Second Label]

Floating between the stars from time to time he'd catch a glimpse from the large window up front and peer back down to earth millions of miles away. All around him there was nothing but thick, dense black and the occasional glimmer of a pale glowing star. He was between two worlds, caught in the galaxy between planets and searching for something out there to land upon and call home once and for all. It seemed like a lifetime ago since he'd left home but perhaps that was just an illusion - a trick of the mind. 

E Davd appears on a new EP from Deviant Episode, the Paris based record label will release their first split EP following previous outings from the likes of Norus, Dj Physical and more.

PREMIERE: E Davd – 2 Worlds (World 2)[Deviant Episode]

Kayla Painter's musical activity is centred around the human relationship with sound. Though this informs the bulk of her academic work - which includes lecturing at University of Gloucester, dBs music and Bath Spa University in areas of production, music, philosophy and political economy - her personal projects are also guided by this humanistic experience through her exploration of field recordings and experimental composition.

Picking up early props from Gilles Peterson, as part of his 'Future Bubbler's programme, Kayla's continued to gain support from Gilles' camp via appearances at We Out Here with her captivating and immersive AV show and through her 'Connections to Sound’ residency on Worldwide FM which swirls around downtempo and experimental sounds.

Her own compositions, which also showcase her talents as a multi-instrumentalist, have resulted in everything from commissions and non-commercial releases to funded projects, acclaimed singles and remixes for the likes of W.H. Lung and Scrimshire.

Her latest EP 'Somewhen' came out on the 8th of October and a couple of the tracks feature in her Monday mix she's put together for us, which explores sparse, meditative motifs with a touch of the experimental...

Kayla Painter: The 'Monday Is OK' Mix

Each night, she climbed out of the top floor window onto the roof - it had become her favourite place to be with her thoughts. From up here she could see the entire town, the houses lit up like a handful of tiny diamonds scattered across the horizon. It felt peaceful beneath the stars; away from the rat race of waking hours, away from the worries of daily life…

West Coast producer Dave Aju introduces us to his latest musical venture with the launch of his new artist imprint Elbow Grease Records. Taking care of the inaugural release himself, on ‘X17’ Dave pays reference to the hypothetical particle and potential Fifth Force discovery, delivering a deep and soulful cosmic trip that teeters between warm and cold textures. The lead single is joined by two versions: an ambient ‘Viiibe’ mix and a stripped back ‘Rhythm Dub’, which suit different spaces and times.

PREMIERE: Dave Aju - X17 (Rhythm Dub) [Elbow Grease Records]

She'd noticed a change in his temperament, it wasn't just the puffed up eyes and wet cheeks that were a giveaway. His door remained closed and his conversations had been reduced to one or two word sentences. She knew she didn't have to say much, she just wanted to let him know she was there; an ear for anything he wanted to divulge, whenever that may be. She didn't have all the answers but she had all the time in the world to listen to him.

To mark mental health awareness month, South London-based cassette label Sticky Tapes have rounded up several producers for a six-track mini-comp titled ‘hey, do you need someone to talk to?’. Known for their charity-indebted tape mixes, which have featured contributions from Violet and ELLES, CC:DISCO! and Barbara Boeing and many others, this new comp comes as a digital only release this time round and brings together the likes of Tim Reaper, Ell Murphy & Picasso, PRAYER, IN2STELLAR, Theo Everyday and Kitsta.

As always all proceeds from the release will be donated to charity, and this time round they're focusing on three mental health helplines, The Samaritans, SANEline and Switchboard, who are all doing incredible work for those who need someone to talk to when they need it most.

To raise further awareness of the helplines, Sticky Tapes will be posting 500 posters all over London that feature rip tickets with the helpline numbers.

PREMIERE: IN2STELLAR - Countertransference [Sticky Tapes]

There path for this evening was undecided, there'd been plenty of opportunities to commit to one thing or another but they preferred to play by ear. Being tied down had never been their thing. The people and the places would dictate their next move — the element of surprise kept the excitement going. If one space didn't meet their needs they'd find somewhere else to spend the twilight hours; spontaneity always remained key.

Sync 24 has has played a central role in the UK electro scene for over two decades, be that through his Scand parties in the capital or his Cultivated Electronics label which has been home to some of the most exciting electro artists since its inception in 2007. After a slew of EPs on labels like CPU and Touchin' Bass, as well as split collabs with the likes of Jensen Interceptor, Radioactive Man and Anthony Rother, he's finally releasing his long-awaited debut LP 'Inside The Microbeat', which features tracks aimed at the dancefloor alongside leftfield cuts and vintage electronica.

The release also comes as a limited-edition version (a run of only 100 copies) with a gatefold sleeve and a 12" canvas print of the artwork, hand-finished by award-winning animation director Will Barras, in a tote bag exclusive to this LP run.

Inside The Microbeat

PREMIERE: Sync 24 - Drunk On Delays [Cultivated Electronics]

On the outside he hadn't changed, his face looked the same — his eyes remained sunken, his brow still furrowed — but there was something different about his personality. There was a renewed sense of self, he seemed assured, reborn almost, which was a far cry away from the person she'd known before. What had spurred on this change? Where had it come from? She needed a dose of whatever he'd taken...

Paris' La Mverte has made a name for himself through his slew of releases on Her Majesty's Ship, which blur the borders between sounds like new wave, electro, acid and dark disco. Now he's taking matters into his own hands with the launch of his new label Les Enfers, and much like the sonics we've come to know him for, the imprint will continue to swirl around dark, hypnotic, punk-tinged sounds.

Titled 'Alchemy Calls', the EP sees La Mverte pay homage, in name, to the different alchemical stages associated with working with the prima materia to produce the philosopher's stone. Backed by two remixes from Javi Redondo and Anatolian Weapons, and featuring a collaboration with Vox Low singer Jean-Christophe Couderc, the original tracks tip the hat to electro and Belgian new beat, driven by gritty machines and filled with raw energy.

Alchemy Calls

PREMIERE: La Mverte - Rubedo [Les Enfers]

Keinemusik are a crew having a bit of a special moment - the Berlin based collective and record label has risen to prominence thanks to a carefully curated string of releases which showcase an innovative, leftfield approach to house and techno music. 

Made up of numerous players including the likes of Adam Port, Rampa and &ME the crew has used the Keinemusik platform to release their own material. Most recently they announced the release of a Keinemusik album which will feature guest appearances from the likes of Ry X, Solomun and Little Dragon. The first single featuring Ali Love emerged recently.  

Reznik remains one of the driving figures behind the imprint and crew - as a dj he is arguably one of the most consistent and interesting in the collective bringing with him a whirlwind of influences from all genres and styles. This mix is perhaps testament to the versatility of his own style as he blends electro, breaks and downtempo influences into a sprawling, mystical journey through sound.

Reznik: The Ransom Note Mix

There were beautiful etchings on the trunk of the old tree, signs that an ancient civilization from afar had been here well before them. All around them were burnt out buildings and abandoned spaces, this old tree was perhaps the only thing growing for a hundred miles. Yet now as they stood gathered beneath the overhanging branches they felt a cold chill in the air for there was a small red spot growing bigger and bigger upon each delicate green leave. Soon too would this tree be gone and the last living thing would be dead. 

Djedjotronic is set to release a new EP on Jensen Interceptor's International Chrome record label, a rigorous electronic affair built for dark and moody basements.

PREMIERE: Djedjotronic - Red Spot [International Chrome]

Life was full of twists and turns, highs and lows, opportunities and obstacles. From one day to the next new situations presented themselves, ones that could change the course of everything; for better or for worse. Sometimes you took a leap of faith, casting yourself into the unknown. At others you retreat, hoping for an easy ride. It was impossible to know what the future held, you had to just keep on going...

San Francisco's Roam Recordings have come a long way since their first release 20 years ago. Back then a group of ravers were looking for parties across the US, Canada and Mexico which soon snowballed, under the guidance of producer Jason Peters, into a label which has housed artists from around the world operating in the realms of cosmic techno, disco, acid house, synth and psychedelia. It's these sonics that make up their 100th release which brings together label family, affiliates and new faces, including Theus Mago, Zakmina, Kate Stein and Teniente Castillo, to showcase the past, present and future of the label.

@tenientecastillo
@roam-recordings

PREMIERE: Teniente Castillo - Stolen Accuracy [Roam Recordings]

Book yourself a hotel room, get your beaver suit on and get that hot coffee brewing ready for some Lokier listening:

http://www.theransomnote.co.uk/music/mixes/lokier-shine-a-light-on-ransom-note-mix/

With a current release on Days Of Being Wild featuring fellow DJ and friend Morgan Hammer, the Mexican DJ/Producer is riding high, making the move to Barcelona to explore all that Europe has to offer. Keeping busy with upcoming EP's with labels Have A Killer Time and Nein plus a selection of remixes, mixes and compilations in the making, we'd say you'll be hearing a lot more of Lokier. 

INTERVIEW

Lokier - Shine A Light On... Ransom Note Mix

Chapping on the door to wake me, YOU CUNT. 
I have been waiting here all night. 
You could've picked me up. 
Oh, she had more "strings" to her did she? She can fuck off, am telling you.
I don't wanna hear about her ways. 
You know you love it this way, get a grip and hold my neck. 
Make it dirty baby. Make me throb. 
Like when we first met. 

Read more at: http://www.theransomnote.co.uk/music/premieres-exclusive-streams/premiere-cabaret-nocturne-blind-trust/

MORE INFO

PREMIERE: Cabaret Nocturne - Blind Trust

Sling & Samo are the exiting duo behind the Born Free record label which resides in Stockholm. Over the last few years the pair have been releasing a vast array of weird, wonderful, oddball music: some built for the dancefloor and some certainly not. The pair are colourful characters who don't take themselves or what they do too seriously. Samo is also well known in his own right as a producer and dj having released music for the likes of LIES, The Trilogy Tapes and Public Possession but together with Sling the pair enter a new realm of musical exploration. We asked them to record a mix for us. 

Sling & Samo DJ: The Ransom Note Mix

Spin, spin, spin, spinning, spin. Rotation, rotation, rotation. Dance, dance, dance. The wheel was in motion, the movement had begun and there was no turning back. It was perilous by nature, fascinating by design. A beautiful link, stunning, sublime. The world kept on moving, the dance was on, where it would land, who knew. 
Turbo are arguably one of the most prolific record labels to have emerged since the millenium. The output is vast, varied and emphatic. Up next is Autarkic who recently released on Disco Halal. He is remixed by none other than Red Axes.

PREMIERE: Autarkic - Rotation! Rotation! (Red Axes Remix)[Turbo]

At this time of year it is important to allow for family. Making time was the name of the game as he rolled up the driveway of the manor house. The trees blew hazily in the wind as snow fell slowly from the sky above. As he looked towards his home he let out a deep sigh because he knew he never had to return to a place of hardship quite like where he had come from. The war was over, freedom could begin and boy was it set to be luxurious and bliss. 

Phil Gerus is the next artist to appear on Tensnake's True Romance label. He delivers a collection of sweltering party cuts across the course of the EP.

Make Time EP

PREMIERE: Phil Gerus - Make Time [True Romance]

The dim glow cast a hazy flourish of light across the early morning sky. Soon it would fall beneath the surface of sight and the soft moon would vanish into the warm blue of daylight. In the greenhouse the flowers began to blossom and awaken beneath the first hint of the morning glow. The glass flickered beneath the glimmering beams and the murky green shadows within were illuminated and set alight. The rest of the park was quiet and still as the day broke. The night was gone. 

Coastdream is set to release a debut EP on X-Kalay who have consistently released music of supreme quality. This one is a sun kissed, summer ready house track with sublime form.

PREMIERE: CoastDream - Soft Moon [X-Kalay]

Fatboy Slim discusses the mental and creative challenges he has faced in his career. In a frank exchange with Mike Boorman he opens up about his alcoholism and gives his views on whether the industry could have done more to help him and others in his situation.

He also rationalises his creative journey. At what point did he stop trying to change the world through music? Is it enough for him to simply offer escapism? 

The interview offers a great insight into Norman Cook the man: his insecurities, his personal development and his undying love for public performance.

The Ransomnote: Hot Air

Hot Air: Fatboy Slim & Mike Boorman discuss alcoholism & mental health

Nick Warren’s other obsession in life is fishing. When he’s not travelling the world DJing he likes nothing more than to spend his days on a river bank chasing salmon. He fishes all over the world, and even instructs his agent to build his DJ gigs around some of his fishing trips!

Nick and Mike discuss the art of fly fishing and why it is the ultimate antidote to the chaos of an international DJ lifestyle. They also discuss the environmental issues that Nick has seen through a life in fishing. Are fishing quotas doing more harm than good? Has global warming threatened the future of Atlantic Salmon? Do politicians even care?

Hot Air: Nick Warren & Mike Boorman discuss fly fishing and the state of the world's oceans

Hello and welcome to another edition of the Hot Air podcast for the Ransom Note. This time around I spoke to a DJ who has dedicated his life to music since the early 80s. John Scheffer is a quiet and unassuming guy from The Hague, and you probably more likely to know him by his long term moniker Intergalactic Gary.

From his early days buying glam rock records back in the late 70s, John has immersed himself in collecting music, and began DJing in clubs in Holland in the 80s. But, he’s never been one to jump on the latest trends, and he’s always very much followed his own path. After he hooked up with I-F in the 90s and begun putting out twisted electro records as Parallax Corporation, Scheffer’s DJ career slowly began to blossom, and these days he’s travelling the world bringing his unique blend of warped disco and techno to dancefloors on a regular basis. With John coming to London to play Hypnodrive at Rye Wax on the 28th September, I caught up with him to chart his long and varied career. It was great to pick his brain about the early days of disco and Italo in the Netherlands, and he has a great story about how acid house finally took hold after a somewhat uncertain start.

Listen to the podcast, brought to you courtesy of Rode microphones whom without this would never have been possible...

Hot Air Episode: #31 Intergalactic Gary Talks To Joe Europe

Welcome to the Hot Air Podcast for the Ransom Note. This time around I caught up with an artist who I’ve been following for some time now, but every time I hear some new output there’s always something there that’s fresh and surprising. Brian De Souza, better known as Auntie Flo, hails from Glasgow, and the city’s rich electronic music history is deeply engrained in his psyche. Originally embarking on a path rooted in house and techno, Brian quickly expanded his musical horizons to incorporate sounds and textures from all corners of the globe, pushing this broader pallet in his productions, and also via his long running club night Highlife. With a new album having just dropped on Brownswood, I stopped by his north London flat for broad ranging chat in his kitchen over a nice cup of coffee. We delved deep into his formative years growing up in Glasgow and talked about the process of putting the album together, but we started off with some surprising alternative meanings for his artist name. 

Listen to the podcast, brought to you courtesy of Rode microphones whom without this would never have been possible...

Hot Air Episode: #32 Auntie Flo Talks To Joe Europe

It seems like every week there is a new revelation of misogyny or sexual assault in the electronic music scene. Whether that’s a well-known DJ abusing their position of power, or a trendy techno label boss espousing awful opinions on women, and this is an issue that’s effected pretty much all elements of our scene right from the beginning. So, for this episode of the Hot Air podcast, we spoke to Rachael Williams and Chloe Harris, two amazing women at the coal face in the electronic music, to find out about their experiences. This will be the first in a series of podcasts looking at how we break this culture and move forward to a better environment in dance music.


Listen to the podcast, brought to you courtesy of Rode microphones whom without this would never have been possible...

Track credit – Chloe Harris, Makmba

Hot Air Episode: #33 Breaking The Culture

Expect the unexpected. That's the philosophy Rotterdam-based DJ mad miran promotes in her DJ sets. A regular on the Dutch capital's mainstay Red Light Radio and a face behind the counter at the infamous Clone record shop, Miran has fast become one of the country's most promising DJs. 

Although she only played her first DJ set in a club a couple of years ago, she's already landed a residency at Trouw successor De School and become part of the Strange Sounds From Beyond family, seeing her name spread like wildfire and lead to a string of gigs across Europe.

We invited her to dive into her record bag for us and the result is 80 minutes of leftfield electro, raw breaks and introspective electronica. Enter into the crazy world of mad miran...

mad miran: The 'Wednesday Alternative' Mix

Amsterdam has been graced with a fearsome array of fabulous selectors and disc jockeys in recent times, the city is abuzz with experimental music and talent. 

Orpheu The Wizard has been a pivotal figure in the development of the scene, crucially helping to nurture new faces through his key role as a co founder of Redlight radio - a distinctive platform which has acted as a gateway and an open door to a new wave of music, producers and dj's. 

His own background is well versed, he's earnt his stripes and played the long game building a respectable array of musical knowledge and selective talent which he uses to entice and delight crowds across Europe and beyond. Eclectic, far reaching and multi purpose - his sets often run wild across a sprawling spectrum of sound. 

This year he will play at Love International festival, an appearance which should not be missed.

Orpheu The Wizard: The Ransom Note Mix

Step back, this is a big one. 

Across the past couple of decades there have been very few who can attest as much influence as that of Joakim, a singular producer who has been charted as an influential figure by many of the leading producers and disc jockeys in the present.

The French outsider has amassed a notorious reputation for his eclectic style as a disc jockey and producer having released music on the likes of Versatile, Kitsuné Music, Life And Death, Crosstown Rebels and beyond. As the founder behind Tigersushi Records and Crowdspacer he has been responsible for leading a new generation of talent into the dance and has played a key role in the future development of dance and electronic music. 

As an individual his own take on music is wide and vast, not one to shy away from the alternative or experimental he has done well to channel a sprawling array of style, genre and sound across his own lengthy career and in all honesty Joakim continues to surprise and intrigue with delight. 

A Dj's dj, he is a firm favourite and we welcome him as part of the series.

Joakim: The Ransom Note Mix

Earlier this month it was announced that Sepehr would be releasing his debut album via Josh Cheon's renowned label Dark Entries. That in itself provides a very telling introduction as to how excited we are to bring you this mix. 

Based in San Francisco he is an eclectic, forward thinking producer who weaves and wanders between acid, techno, house and all out psychedelia. The city has educated him well, teaching him the rights and wrongs and he has evolved into a musical powerhouse along the way. Previous appearances have seen him release music via EON, Legwork and Trippy Ass Technologies. He has also previously released on Dark Entries in the form of the "Body Mechanics" EP. A moody acid driven affair which worked wonders in the club. 

His new album sees him pay homage to his Iranian heritage, channeling the sounds and ideas prevalent on 70's records and their spirit. He reinvents the music for a new age.

Sepehr: The Ransom Note Mix

Ransom Note is an online music, arts and culture magazine. We provide a home for readers and writers with boundless enthusiasm, esoteric knowledge, fierce opinions and impeccable taste.

With our core team immersed in all aspects of dance music, we publish news, articles, and interviews covering the greatest in innovative, underground culture from across the globe. We offer regular, exclusive music and mixtapes from our favourite artists, and publish features shining a light on everything from the freshest new artists to the untold tales from rave history.

Alongside this we offer musings on film, books, life, and art, generating some context and controversy as an antidote to the reheated PR that clogs up the internet. Our office is fuelled by Tunnock’s Bars, cat memes, hangovers and a ridiculous, never ending love for our culture.

We're always interested in getting new writers on board – feel free to get in touch if you’ve got a story to tell.

With love until the grave.

Ransom Note

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