Mixes

The Ransom Note Dispatch on Netil Radio

Buy/Stream: https://ransom-note-records.lnk.to/LavaAroundtheFloatingIsland

R$N Records are very excited to bring you the debut release from brand new duo, ILHA. Consisting of Canadian producer, African Ghost Valley, and Mozambican artist, Nandele, their inaugural release, Lava Around the Floating Island, is a masterclass in synthesized ambience. Featuring the celestial, atmospheric lead single MA118 and ambient banger EP focus track Seawall, ILHA firmly imprint their warmth upon the listener, with a lament to a a bygone era of sound.

www.instagram.com/nandelemaguni/
@nndle
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Released by:
Ransom Note Records
Release date:
2 November 2022

Buy/Stream

ILHA - Lava Around The Floating Island [R$N33]

Mother of Mars - Harmonium Detector EP

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]

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]

LA-based Hologram Teen (aka Morgane Lhote) returns to Ransom Note Records with a third album entitled “Day-Glo Chaos”, an unabashedly nostalgic musical love letter to the 1980s. 

Offering a mixture of cinematic strings, 80s French pop, video game soundtracks, a dash of Drum and Bass and vocoder vocals, this album feels like living in a vintage arcade.

Inspired by LA life, vintage video games, coffee-fuelled musical experimentation, Baroque keyboard parts, Neil Young’s “Trans”, and 1980s French pop culture, Hologram Teen found elements that contributed to the creation of ‘Day-Glo Chaos’, but that’s not all.

The basis of the album was a synth sound that the artist created for the song “Dalston Wizardzz” on her previous R$N outing “Pizza Conspiracy”. Morgane liked its airiness and soundtrack-like vibe and wanted to build a collection of songs around it, with those string pads as the starting point and backbone for all the new tracks in ‘Day-Glo Chaos’. What started as more cinematic tracks quickly evolved into kinetic and upbeat 80s pop songs.

The first single, 'Valley Nights (Burnin’)', is a synthy ode to the 80s and evokes Hologram Teen’s love story with her home base in Los Angeles and driving through the city at night. It’s suddenly 1983. You’re driving a DMC DeLorean through a bright tunnel whilst the need to sip on a cold beer invades your thoughts. 'Valley Nights (Burnin’)' is playing on the radio and that’s all you want to hear right now.

Day-Glo Chaos

PREMIERE: Hologram Teen - Valley Nights (Burnin') [Ransom Note Records]

DJ Danifox is part of the mesmerising sound world that is Príncipe Discos. Following a spell living in Leeds, he now operates from the label's hub, Lisbon, where he's been busy making his own organic take on the imprint's modern dance floor sounds, fusing elements of kuduro and batida with rich, infectious instrumentation, warm bass and percussive grooves. 

When he's not producing solo, he makes up part of the longstanding Tia Maria Produções crew, all of whom are close Príncipe affiliates. The crew's first outing on Príncipe came in 2014 featuring music from DJ Lycox, DJ B.Boy, Puto Márcio and DJ Télio, with Danifox joining for the collective's second outing in 2020, Lei Da Tia Maria.

Last month saw the release of Danifox's first solo EP for Principe, Dia Não Mata Dia. A blend of signature traditional rhythms, bouncy bass, hypnotic live instruments and vocal samples, this debut outing fulfils his personal depiction of his music: perfect for the sunset and will leave you in a good mood. 

That's exactly what he does with his mix for us: it's characterised by staccato rhythms and soulful touches, a perfect accompaniment for the sun-soaked weekend ahead...

DJ Danifox: The 'Shine A Light On' Mix

Every morning without fail, just as dawn broke, a small boat would appear at the waters edge to whisk the most curious of people off to an unknown destination. The boat only ever returned empty, slowly it traced its routine daily journey back and forth across the calm waters. Rumours had long circulated about where those who boarded the vessel disembarked; some said it led to a utopian island, others attested to it taking people to their final resting place. Only those willing to take the risk would find out.

Aldonna's music is perfectly tuned for late nights on the floor; think of sweaty rooms filled with energetic dancers. The Melbourne producer came up through the ranks in the city with her party series Re-Leaf and is now expanding her name across the pond with her bright, supercharged productions. Her debut EP Morph, which comes with remixes from Alex Kassian and Marli, lets us into some of the influences that fuel her as a DJ, taking us on a nostalgic ride through warm proggy trance, euphoric rave and acid-laced breaks.

Morph EP

PREMIERE: Aldonna - The Empress' Acid Line (Alex Kassian Remix) [Homage]

Fantastic Man has become one of the most exciting and revered producers on the circuit having released music on the likes of Mule, Love on the Rocks and Kitjen. He is also the founder of Superconscious Records alongside Griffin James.

As a DJ his musical taste is broad and wide ranging, drawing upon far reaching influences from the realm of House, Trance, Downtempo, Balearic and beyond. As such you never quite know what you are going to get but that's all part of the fun right?

Most recently he has been dabbling in a fast paced, new age approach to House and Trance - channeling the free spirited energy of the 90's and a sun kissed era for dance music.

Some might feel it to be nostalgic but he is very much at the forefront of a new wave of producers and DJ's looking to breathe life into and reinvigorate the sound.

This mixtape is one of the best we've heard in a while and is rightly suited to a Friday.

Fantastic Man: The Ransom Note Mix

R$N Recs brings you the debut EP from ILHA: Canadian producer, African Ghost Valley, & Mozambican artist, Nandele, their inaugural release, Lava Around the Floating Island, is a masterclass in synthesized ambience. Lead single, MA118 provides celestial reverberations, soothing our ears before the forward propulsion of the kick drum finally drops us into the mesmeric groove. The retro 80s bassline is complimented by a lush melody & metallic chords that drive this jauggernaut onwards.

https://www.instagram.com/nandelemaguni/
https://soundcloud.com/nndle
https://www.facebook.com/nandelemaguni/


https://www.instagram.com/africanghostvalley
https://soundcloud.com/african-ghost-valley
https://www.facebook.com/africanghostvalley
https://twitter.com/aghostvalley

Lava Around The Floating Island EP

ILHA - MA118 [R$N33S]

Buy/Stream: https://ransom-note-records.lnk.to/LavaAroundtheFloatingIsland

R$N Records are very excited to bring you the debut release from brand new duo, ILHA. Consisting of Canadian producer, African Ghost Valley, and Mozambican artist, Nandele, their inaugural release, Lava Around the Floating Island, is a masterclass in synthesized ambience. Featuring the celestial, atmospheric lead single MA118 and ambient banger EP focus track Seawall, ILHA firmly imprint their warmth upon the listener, with a lament to a a bygone era of sound.

https://www.instagram.com/nandelemaguni/
https://soundcloud.com/nndle
https://www.facebook.com/nandelemaguni/

https://www.instagram.com/africanghostvalley
https://soundcloud.com/african-ghost-valley
https://www.facebook.com/africanghostvalley
https://twitter.com/aghostvalley

Lava Around The Floating Island

ILHA - Dirl [R$N33]

ILHA - Tars [R$N33]

The thick metal door slammed with an ominous thud; the sound of the key twisting in the lock made his insides do the same. A realisation washed over him; he wasn't going to escape his mistakes this time, his sentence was in the email - signed, sealed and delivered. Years and years of swerving the law, of flying under the radar and not taking responsibility for his actions, but this time it wouldn't go unpunished. He'd made his bed and he'd have to lie in it, at least until the hangman came knocking at his door. 

For the last five years Lyon-based DJs and producers Tushen Rai and Cornelius Doctor have been trawling the outer reaches of the universe mining for musical gold. Through their label Hard Fist they've not just built a strong sonic identity, they've also grown an extensive family of like-minded producers, many of whom are helping them to celebrate and commemorate this five year milestone. Self-dubbed a "Unidentified Noisy Object (U.N.O)", to mark the occasion they've enlisted label mates and peers who've been part of their journey to collaborate as part of a mammoth compilation titled Dust of Life.

The double LP, which was lovingly supported by their devoted following via a crowdfunding campaign, features link ups from the likes of Bawrut & Phil Louzolo, Sascha Funke & Fantastic Twins and Errortica & Curses, who explore threads of post-punk, new wave, acid, trance and electronica.

Various - Dust of Life (5 years double compilation)

PREMIERE: Errortica & Curses - Hangman [Hard Fist]

Before we all hit it too hard at our Christmas party, we took over the Netil waves for a two hour special with RSN residents Ally, Matt and Rosie (AKA RAM) at the reigns...

No Christmas songs but plenty of music we like and that we hope you will too.

The Ransom Note Christmas Dispatch on Netil Radio

Khotin has been a key figure in the developing Electronic music scene emerging from Canada - for over ten years he has been producing and releasing music.

His sound has evolved exponentially, weaving between sounds and styles with cohesive ease of which others might only dream of. His records have found a home somewhere between the heady 90's ambient and trip hop era, deep house and has drawn upon abstract influences from balearic roots, trance and a whirlwind of other other cultural guises.

All of this makes his music remarkably interesting and hard to pin down.

His forthcoming album "Release Spirit" is forthcoming on acclaimed label Ghostly International. It features a collection of ambient soundscapes, tape recordings and off piste samples as Khotin draws inspiration from far reaching influences such as World of Warcraft, train journeys through Europe and Japan, family vacations and beyond.

We asked Khotin to record a mix which reflects a similar nature of the new album - the result is a delicate assortment of textures which lend themselves to a brooding optimism for the year ahead. At least we hope..

Khotin: The Ransom Note Mix

Ally Tropical and Matt Cowell take you through the drive time slot on Netil Radio.

The Ransom Note Dispatch on Netil Radio (February 2023)

The orange hue of the street lamps guided their way up the high street; each one a beacon lighting their journey home. Blurry eyed and at various levels of inebriation, they agreed on a routine pitstop before going their separate ways and calling it a night. First the bright neon lights beckoned them in, before the delicious smells emanating from behind the counter entered their nostrils and they knew they'd made the right decision. They weren't going to bed hungry. 

Since starting life in 2019, Helsinki label Avoidance has provided a platform for Finnish artists, which so far encompasses releases from Sansibar, WND and 53X. For their fourth outing they bring on board another local artist, Jeku, who's previous releases for his own non-temporal label have displayed his fresh blend of acid, trance and progressive house flavours. It's more of the same on his Avoidance debut but this time he journeys into deeper and darker corners of the electronic spectrum.

PREMIERE: Jeku - Falafel Nights [Avoidance]

Every day started and ended the same way – he would rise in the morning and sleep tightly in the evening. He would go to work, see the same people and do the same dance. He’d walk home the same way, catch the same train and sit by the same window.

He wondered how many times he might live upon repeat? One hundred and sixty times was it now? Who was counting anyway?

Tomorrow would be just like the one before, except he hoped it might be sunny. For if it were sunny then he might just smile once or twice, that was pretty good odds by his count.

Sputnik One’s N-Face is back with a new compilation showcasing music from a global assortment of up and coming producers keen to challenge the preconceptions and structures of electronic music. As a compilation this one runs wild featuring material from the likes of K Wata, LWS, Young Muscle and more.

However, it is Glimmerman’s track which we showcase today – a weighty affair destined to boom bap in loud systems and in discerning clubs.

PREMIERE: Glimmerman - One Hundred & Sixty Times [N-Face]

A flock of birds took flight across the sky, dipping and weaving in unison until they were out of sight beyond the cliffs. The terrain was bold and colourful; huge towering green trees shot up into the heavens, below a flowing stream of clear blue water meandered through various species of flowers and chattering insects. The sheer expanse of this landscape took his breath away, it was a far cry from the cityscapes he knew so well. It remained untouched by human hands, not tampered with for commercial gain - here nature was in charge. 

Up next on non-profit label Sinchi it's a close member of the collective's family, Hary Shanthi. Marking his second release on the label, following 2021's Sivapuranam (​ச​ி​வ​ப​ு​ர​ா​ண​ம​்​), this new single 'Urumi' is another window into the psyche of a deep thinking, technically skilled producer. The slowly unfurling opus, which is peppered with hypnotic acid lines, synth leads and percussion is a homage to his Indian culture and '"the non-dualistic nature" of Kashmir Shaivism, a philosophical system that emerged in India around the 12th Century'. It comes complete with remixes from MR TC and Tushen Raï and, as always, all money from sales will be donated to the Sinchi Foundation which supports indigenous people across the world.

PREMIERE: Hary Shanthi - Urumi (MR TC Remix) [Sinchi]

Sevensol is a splendid producer, DJ and label boss. Kann, the label of which he co-founded alongside Bender, has become one of the best and most significant in a new wave of record labels championing House music in Europe. A figurehead of the Leipzig underground music scene Sevensol cut his teeth at record stores across the city, working behind the counters and gathering a wealth of knowledge which would go on to inform and inspire his own taste and perspective as a DJ.

His music is often deep, pensive and driven by emotions. This is perhaps best noted on his own productions, upon which he works with Bender to craft stripped back, textural music which tugs at the heartstrings as much as it moves the feet.

As a DJ Sevensol’s style is innovative and unique, seeking to take dancers on a journey through multiple genres and styles, all with ethereal undertones. Sevensol is also one half of the DJ duo Manamana alongside Map.ache.

We invited him to record this mixtape a little while back and now that it’s shown up it doesn’t disappoint.

Sevensol: The Ransom Note Mix

Dusk had blurred into twilight and soon the sun was setting, bringing with it an all engulfing darkness. They'd been driving for some time without seeing any signs of life, but as they finally veered onto the highway, a flock of cars greeted them, each edging closer towards the sea of bright lights on the horizon. Escaping this had given them space to breathe and think but as the days passed they were aching to get back into the throes of city life.

Four years ago Years of Denial brought their potent blend of goth, post-punk, dark wave, EBM and techno to Veyl Records for their Suicide Disco LP. This self-coined name perfectly describes their sound, and it's what they're diving back into for the second chapter of this string of Veyl releases. This follow up balances slow burners, mournful romanticism, dystopian energy and a hefty dose of seductive body music which stays true to the pillars of the YoD sound.

https://lnk.to/SUICIDEDISCO2

Suicide Disco Vol. 2

PREMIERE: Years of Denial - City Lights [Veyl]

Phuong – Dan has been a resident at Hamburg’s Golden Pudel club for nearly two decades – it has become a space synonymous with off piste and leftfield dance music acting as a home for exploratory DJ’s to broaden the expectations of dancers.

Phuong – Dan has been a pivotal part of the evolution of the club, hosting his party Gatto Musculoso since 2006.

As a DJ his sound is diverse, drawing upon a wild array of influences and nuances as he seeks to create abstract experiences through music.

Working on a project by project basis, with a particular focus on artistic integrity, Phuong – Dan has become one of the most interesting artists working in this space. As the founder of dispari, a multi disciplinary record label and platform he has released music and works by the likes of Gavsborg, Cloud Management, Anatolian Weapons, Hector Zazou, Laurie Anderson, Florian Bräunlich and Sven-Åke Johansson.

This mixtape is a wild trip, spanning a variety of sounds.

Phuong - Dan: The Ransom Note Mix

The dust was blowing furiously as the sky became a dark frosty black. Out here in the middle of nowhere they were very much at risk in the midst of chaos. Others had told tall stories about mysterious evenings lost in the dense fog of a plexistorm but few had ever imagined it might be as intense or vivid as this.

The wind howled between the ears as the night became colder, it were as if god himself was blowing frostily down upon them from the great heavens up above. How the hell might they ever escape but for a prayer or a miracle? It seemed like nothing else might work…
 
LNS & Dj Sotofett have become keen collaborators having worked on previous releases for Tresor. Now they return to the label with a new EP packed with electronic heat destined to keep dancefloors two steppin’ in rapid time. This is Electro at it’s very best – somewhat melancholy undertones paired with fast paced flickering stabs of energy.

The Reformer EP

PREMIERE: LNS & DJ Sotofett - Plexistorm [Tresor]

Joey Anderson remains committed to the deep rooted sensibilities of House music, it's very much in his DNA - drawing upon influences from the underground of New York city. Over the years he has released some of the most influential records in the genre - EP's on the likes of Latency, Syncrophone Recordings and Deconstruct - albums on the likes of Dekmantel and Avenue 66.

This month marks the release of a new album on Deeptrax.

His sound has always been cemented in a deep, philosophical energy. It's music as much for listening, ambience and mood as it is the dancefloor.

Over the years his music has gone on to reach critical acclaim and gained international recognition but it is his home city and the origins of the musical culture from which he draws strength, not the hype or social media circus.

Not one to dabble in eccentricities his music is stripped back, utilising uniquely programmed machinery to create delicate textures and weird dusty tones which often lead to a unique transcendence.

Joey is an artist we've been keen to feature in this series for a long time now and the result is just as special as we could have imagined...

Joey Anderson: The Ransom Note Mix

Today marks what would have been the Guv'nor's 60th birthday.

As a little nod to the late great Andrew Weatherall we've re-sharing an old mix of his alongside Sean Johnston, recorded in the lead up to Electric Elephant 11 years ago, which was only previously available on Mixcloud.

This came just a year into the duo's journey as ALFOS and their now infamous project which Andrew described as “an oasis of slowness in a world of increasing velocity”.

A solid slice of oompty boompty music to see you into the weekend. Stick it on and raise a glass to the chairman!

Andrew Weatherall: 'A Love From Outer Space' Electric Elephant mix [R$N Exclusive 2012]

The thought of him made her blood boil, her fists clench and her brow sweat. What had begun as shock had soon been replaced by sadness and swiftly that had contorted itself into anger. The person she'd known all these years wasn't really who she thought he was, and now she couldn't even bear to look at him, it were as though he had become a stranger. He'd been exiled from her home, from her life, from her inner circle, but there was a mountain to climb when it came to exiling him from her mind.

After racking up appearances on Me Me Me and Riotvan, among others, German-born, Brooklyn-based producer Tony Y Not crash lands on Live At Robert Johnson with a stellar debut. She's already built a distinct sound through her previous releases which orbits around metallic synth lines, pulsing dynamic rhythms and dark moody atmospheres, all of which come together on her new three-tracker. Titled Your Exile In My Mind, the EP takes cues from techno, euro disco, acid, Italo and wave, and is without a doubt made with a dark dance floor in mind.

PREMIERE: Tony Y Not - Your Exile In My Mind [Live At Robert Johnson]

For March's instalment of The Dispatch, Rosie Ama was joined by Johnny Xie and Global Warming Records boss Malcolm for two hours of good tunes, vibes and sound effects.

The Ransom Note Dispatch w/ Johnny Xie & Malcolm on Netil Radio (March 2023)

These were the stories that he told himself, tall tales from long ago which had got lost in the spaces in between. It had been a while since he’d last let himself think about such history and nostalgia for it was buried deep in the recesses of his mind. His memory palace was a place visited once in a blue moon for the magic which lived behind those thick castle walls was sometimes best to be left alone.

Lying amidst the tall grass he watched as the clouds moved slowly by overhead, he’d allowed himself this one afternoon to daydream upon what might of been in another life. He opened the heavy gates and let his memories of a wilder, better time come rushing in.

He closed his eyes and nodded off…

Priori continues to develop and grow as a producer, moving toward deep, pensive textures and atmospheres on a new EP for Midgar Records. The Pareidolia EP is comprised of four tracks of intelligent Techno which teases and intrigues – this is a record which will sound good on dark nights and in smokey rooms.

PREMIERE: Priori - Memory Palace [Midgar]

No one day was the same since they'd upped sticks and moved to the city. It had been an adjustment in the beginning but soon they'd slotted into urban life like the years spent in the countryside had never even existed. The hustle and bustle; the never-ending list of things to see and do; any food you want at your fingertips; the freedom to be exactly who you want to be without any judgment - they could no longer imagine themselves anywhere else but here... 

Robi Insinna is gearing up for the release of a brand new album under his Headman alias. In the lead up to the release he's releasing a number of singles with his signature dub versions and remixes from friends and affiliates. The third track to be released is a homage to his love of the 90s, blending elements of Indie and electronica and calling on the vocal stylings of Mexican DJ and producer Vongold to complete the track. On top of the original and the dub, the EP comes with a remix from Leipzig trio New Hook and another track titled 'Live120'.

RR120 Sometimes E.P.

PREMIERE: Headman feat Vongold - Sometimes (New Hook Remix) [Relish]

R.A.M. in action for April's drive time slot on Netil Radio. A little bit of everything you want and need.

The Ransom Note Dispatch on Netil Radio (April 2023)

One by one they each left the experiment, the room began to empty and soon there would be very few people left in the hall. There were bright lights perched in each corner of the room, the radiant glow beamed down upon each individual with delicate precision so as to amplify their every expression and movement beneath the illumination. They had been stood there for hours, each participants' every thought analysed as an example of human behaviour.

Up on the balcony a collective of white coated scientists watched with expert focus - it was their job to root out the weak one by one and look for who might be fit to study further.

One reached over and pressed the switch for the final time as the music blared into life once more. The sound of drums filled the hollow room...

Laura BCR is set to release a new EP on the prolific record label Live At Robert Johnson. It is her first time releasing music via the imprint and marks a significant achievement for a producer and DJ who continues to grow from strength to strength.

This track is called "Human Behaviour" and features a collaboration with Colombian artist Launaea. It's a pensive, minimal track with close attention to detail.

PREMIERE: Laura BCR - Human Behavior (with Launaea) [Live At Robert Johnson]

https://soundcloud.com/motherofmars 
https://soundcloud.com/maximep
https://soundcloud.com/ransom-note-records
🛒 https://ransom-note-records.lnk.to/HarmoniumDetector
🔊 https://youtu.be/ytD-kki_0EU

Vito Roccoforte and Gabriel Andruzzi – AKA Mother Of Mars are BACK, this time featuring the luxuriant vocal delights of Satomi Matsuzaki.

Vito and Gabe are best known as members of era-defining NY post punkers The Rapture and continue their tradition of angular yet danceable, hooky yet challenging musical output with brand new EP, Harmonium Detector.

Title track, Harmonium Detector, is based on the concept of breaking up with your cellphone - something Vito has attempted in the past, with limited success! It showcases Satomi’s lush vocals, transporting the listener to a world of rapturous electronic elation. Its intricate layers of rhythm create a unique and mesmerising listening experience that will have you bopping on the spot in no time at all.

We've enlisted the talents of two incredible remixers to put their spin on the original too. First up is Max Pask, who delivers a disco workout of a remix that adds a new dimension to the original. With his expert ear, he’s teased out parts from the MoM version to create a true disco behemoth - this mix is going to be burning up dance floors all over the world.

Next, Hologram Teen's Espresso ESP Remix takes it in a House-ier direction, with its bouncy, energetic sounds, squelchy bassline and vocodered vocals. Morgane (previously of seminal French Avant-Popsters, Stereolab) has created something truly experimental, yet thoroughly dance-able here, invoking shades of Laurie Anderson.

Finally, the Harmonium Decorum (Edit), provides an ephemeral, radio-friendly version of the original track that still retains its pulsating, fun energy

Tracklist:

1. Harmonium Detector
2. Harmonium Detector (Max Pask Remix)
3. Harmonium Detector (Hologram Teen's Espresso ESP Remix)
4. Harmonium Decorum (Edit)

Harmonium Detector

PREMIERE: Mother of Mars - Harmonium Detector (Max Pask Remix) [Ransom Note Records]

They couldn't see anything through the thick fog, could barely make out their own feet trudging through the boggy grass. It didn't bode well, what should have been an easy journey had turned into a treacherous mission across unknown terrain; they still had a long road ahead of them. Darkness was looming on the horizon, and soon their vision would become even more impaired, was it worth them battling through the obstacles despite their better judgment? 

Jokios Kultūros is part of the Electric Shapes family, he's been a constant throughout the Lithuanian imprint's journey. After a string of EPs and track contributions over the last few years, he's finally releasing his first long player into the world, the aptly titled ALL IS ONE.

It amasses all the different styles and influences that have motivated his productions, from breakbeat, house and DnB to ambient, trance and downtempo, and a taste for Japanese-inspired melodies and video game elements.

ALL IS ONE

PREMIERE: Jokios Kultūros - Basic Level [Electric Shapes]

TT welcome singer/songwriter c0sti for her label debut with a six-tracker titled ‘As above so below’. A concoction of moving lyricism and raw, grungy sonics, she takes influence from her poetry background and the works of Kurt Cobain and William Blake while examining the contrast between darkness and light and heaven and hell. The result is six emotive tracks that balance both hope and melancholy.

PREMIERE: c0sti feat. Yayoyanoh - Deep end [TT]

R.A.M. back in action for May's drive time slot on Netil Radio, featuring a special microphone appearance from Timothy Clerkin.

The Ransom Note Dispatch on Netil Radio (May 2023)

It's the TC... Channeling the energy of everyone's favourite Essex hun, Tia Cousins is who she is, and she ain't gonna apologise for it.

The London-based DJ mines for music on the outer fringes, whether its new wave oddities, off-kilter breakbeats or hypnotic techno. That said she's not just got a knack for chugging it out in a dark club, she can raise a smile too with her synth-pop, folk and post-punk finds; an eclecticism that's earned her a number of radio residencies over the years on NTS, Balamii and more recently on Noods Radio.

This no-nonsense attitude and bottomless music knowledge has caught the ears of events and festivals like Fabric, Field Manuevers and Love International, as well as the attention of Overmono who invited her to play as the support on their UK and Ireland tour.

Another duo who also imparted an invitation to her to join them on the arm up were our Glasgow favourites Optimo, and lucky for you lovely lot Tia has kindly given us the entire recording to share with the world... A whopping three hour trip live and direct from Phonox. Long may she sliv...

Tia Cousins: The 'Shine A Light On' Mix

Stories would be told about him one day, that was for certain. As the sun began to set he looked out over his small village and considered his options, might he run away or stay and fight. The light was fading slowly and it felt symbolic of the way in which his own time was running out.

Never had he imagined he might be forced out like this, yet his truth was all that mattered now and the stories that he’d leave behind would go down to be those of mischief and meander. Perhaps it was always supposed to be this way, a Lahla boy running wild and free with no place to go.

Supreems is set to release a new album on the newly launched Sweet Sun. It features a number of emotive electronic cuts channeling elements of broken beat, breaks, UK bass and beyond. This track features vocals from Off the Meds affiliated vocalist Kamohelo.

PREMIERE: Supreems Ft. Kamohelo - Lahla Boy [Sweet Sun]

In the mystical realm of Melodica, the renowned music producer Bozzwell Bradley ruled over the vibrant domain of the Voodoo Discoteque. This enchanted studio was a haven for both mortal musicians and magical beings alike. Bozzwell possessed a rare gift for infusing his music with the essence of the fantastical, creating tunes that transported listeners to realms beyond their wildest imaginations.

One moonlit night, a shimmering figure named Aurelia, a celestial being from a distant star, appeared at Voodoo Discoteque 68 Records. Her ethereal voice resonated with the power to bend reality itself. Captivated by her celestial melodies, Bozzwell offered to collaborate with Aurelia, eager to channel her divine essence into his enchanting compositions.

As their musical collaboration unfolded, the studio transformed into a kaleidoscope of magic and wonder. The melodies they created unleashed a cascade of sparkling stardust, painting the air with vivid colors. The very walls of Voodoo Discoteque 68 Records pulsed with celestial energy.

News of this celestial collaboration spread like wildfire throughout Melodica, drawing creatures from far and wide to witness the ethereal spectacle. Elves danced with glee, unicorns pranced in rhythm, and dragons hummed harmonies that resonated in the hearts of all who heard them.

The enchantment that Bozzwell and Aurelia wove together was a testament to the boundless power of music. It united beings of all walks of life, bridging the gap between mortal and magical, and reminding them of the universal language that dwelled within their souls.

In the end, the music of Bozzwell Bradley and Aurelia became legendary, forever etching their names in the annals of Melodica's history. And the melodies of Voodoo Discoteque 68 Records continued to echo through the ages, carrying the magic of their collaboration into the hearts of all who listened.

Dusting off some old Dat Tapes in Bozzwells Studio, this hidden gem was found  forged above  a spoon factory at Stag Works, Sheffield by Bozzwell and Chris Bradley, (Lex Records artists and Lights Down Low promoter ) , Voodoo Discoteque throbs.

Released on 68 Records on 22nd May and streaming on all digital devices.

PREMIERE:  Bozzwell/Bradley - Voodoo Discoteque [68 Records]

Operatic synth-pop - like Grace Jones singing minimal wave in a Chicago house.

Once upon a time, in a mystical land, there existed a hidden realm known as Eine Welt. This enchanting realm was home to extraordinary beings with magical abilities. Among them was a legendary group called 700WET, renowned for their music and captivating performances.

One fateful evening, the moonlit sky above Eine Welt shimmered with an ethereal glow as the members of 700WET prepared for their most daring endeavour yet. Their latest creation, titled “Dare You” held the promise of unleashing a power unlike anything ever witnessed before.
 

Led by their visionary leader, Marja Christians, and accompanied by the musical prowess of Cid Hohner, the group embarked on a quest to capture the essence of courage and challenge the limits of their own creativity. The song would be a tribute to the unyielding spirit of adventure.
 

700WET is an art-pop project by Marja Christians and Cid Hohner – the perfect blend of synth-pop and operatic vocals. Their ‘Lovers-Dance’ sound combines elements of80s, dub and house, reminiscent of Grace Jones singing minimal wave in a Chicago house.

Inspired by the feminist power of erotica, their latest release “Gimme Love” which houses this beauty we premiere here is out on May 15, 2023, under the Eine Welt label.

einewelt.bandcamp.com

PREMIERE: 700WET - Dare You [Eine Welt]

The sun began to glimmer in the distance, slowly rising atop the hillside and banishing the foggy mist which had gathered overnight below.

There was something warm and magical about the way it moved. its certainty was glorious in a world so filled with chaos and confusion.

This was going to be a bright day.

He could feel it as the world around him awoke and was reborn in the glow of the light.

This was going to be a brighter day. 

Than that which had come before and left such a bitter taste upon the tongue. 

This was going to be the brightest day. 

When freedom and unity would meet in glorious synergy as they danced beneath the radiant haze of the midday sun.

GIDEÖN is joined by Tasty Lopez & Tobirus Mozelle on what may be one of the strongest club cuts of the year so far. An ode to the Cajmere classic and a homage to the truth and spirit of House music culture at its very core. This one is due for imminent release on Homo-Centric and is set to tear the roof off clubs in the near future. You have been warned..

PREMIERE: GIDEÖN  - Brighter Day [Home-Centric]

Finn Johannsen is a bit of an unsung hero – not one to seek the limelight or stardom he has given more to the wlectronic music community than most having worked in numerous capacities over many years. Finn has worn many hats – a journalist, a promoter, a label boss, a DJ and beyond. His taste is ridiculously good and you’d be hard pushed to find someone who knows as much about the lineage and roots of dance music as he does.

At present he works behind the scenes at the infamous Paloma in Berlin.

It is also here that he has become a figurehead behind the stellar club night Power House which has helped breathe life into the fundamentals and roots of House music in the city at its core.

Few DJ’s are as technically able as Finn, who regularly plays mammoth extended vinyl sets which span hours at a time.

This mix is honestly long overdue, we thought we’d asked him before but we hadn’t. Thankfully it’s better than even we could have imagined.

Finn Johannsen: The Ransom Note Mix

Watching from the window, it was clear to tell that nobody was home. The rain rattled against the glass and the frame shook from time to time as the wind howled in the cold darkness of the night. All evening had been spent watching, waiting and pacing. Surely they should be home by now?

It was hard to think of oneself as a voyeur yet chance after chance had lead to the miserable, mysterious circumstances by which now must be lived.

Every time the glow of some car headlights passed was enough to stir and shake the senses no end. Hopefully the taxi would return soon and put this sense of urgent dread to bed for one evening.

No Sir is a Brooklyn based DJ and producer who has released music on the likes of 3024 & W133. Now they step up to Faux Poly with a punchy release which fully establishes them as an artist. No Sir reflects on the inspiration behind the record below:

“I started producing this EP at a really challenging moment last summer after I got a concussion that left me pretty much bed bound for a month. During this time I also quit drinking, so my relationship to music and going to clubs saw a complete overhaul. This EP is my attempt to find a space in between the hours spent at my quiet apartment and my return to these loud, dark spaces I see as another kind of home. The title track, Voyeur, was the first piece of music I made after the injury”

Voyeur [FP006]

PREMIERE: No Sir - Voyeur [Faux Poly]

The wind blew softly through the trees, the branches danced softly atop the breeze as the pine needles fell softly towards the forest floor. The only sound which could be heard was the rippling waters – they flowed gently down from the hillside upon a great old river which had once boasted tales and stories of people who rode the waves long ago.

Some might say that there was magic in this place. Others had chosen to forget it long ago.

Wandering through the fog, amidst the trees, he felt most at home.


 
Re:Conceive 2 is a collection of tracks from artists living in Tiohtiá:ke:, so-called ‘montréal’, which is raising money for The Native Women’s Shelter and The Just Solutions Clinic. It aims to activate solidarity between indigenous peoples, settlers, immigrants and refugees alike. Electronic music is a potent conduit in this process, in reclaiming space where just realities might be cultivated or imagined.

This track comes from RAMZi, one of the most interesting musicians and producers of the moment.

Re:Conceive 2

PREMIERE: RAMZi - faucon [Re:Conceive 2]

Tecwaa is the solo project Paul Fawcett is an amalgamation of influences ranging from Yorkshire raves to Detroit Techno and horror movie scores. Producing chugging psychedelic, deep house, slow-mo disco and dub techno.

He’s released two mind-melting LPs for Scandinavian powerhouse Höga Nord Rekords, as well as singles for Les Yeux Orange, Futureboogie and now Throne of Blood

INTERVIEW

Tecwaa: The 'Shine A Light On' Mix

They hadn't spoken for a little while now. The phone which had used to ring every night had gone quiet and there was nobody there on the other side of the line. 

How he wished that she would pick up, speak her love and forgive him. 

He sat watching the world go by from an apartment which had once been theirs. What he would do for her to burst through the door, a warm embrace and their favourite food cooking in the kitchen. 

It had been too long.

Jamie 3:26 & Khadeeja deliver all kinds of funk on a new EP for Jamie's own 3:26 Records. It is also matched with a remix from Detroit pioneer and maestro Theo Parrish who reworks 'Speak Your Love' into a broken House infused groove packed with intricacy and spirit.

Speak Your Love

PREMIERE: Jamie 3:26 & Khadeeja - Speak Your Love (Theo Parrish Remix)[3:26 Records]

Emotions were running high, it was to the point of danger. She was experiencing a sensory overload as her heart began to beat fast against her chest - it was racing, pacing and left her short of breath. 

This had all been so unexpected for it wasn't supposed to happen here, amidst all this. A new love? No? Not now... 

It wasn't the right time nor the right place yet as the world unfolded rapidly in a kaleidoscopic mirage of colours and wild flashing lights she began to lose herself to the touch of another. 

Perhaps this is what 'real love' felt like? 

Chaotic, manic and out of control. All she could do was dance to the beat of its drum...

Afrodeutsche releases a track called 'A New Love' as part of a compilation from the Black Artist Database. This one feels nostalgic yet new - rave energy which takes us back to a simpler time all the while leaving us thinking of a better future. This is what dance music is all about...

PREMIERE: Afrodeutsche - A New Love [Black Artist Database]

The old ride sat perched in the corner of the fairground. It had once been the talk of the town but now the paintwork and the fine details and bright colours had been washed away by years of driving wind and blustery wind. Time moved slow around these parts but even it had not been able to prevent the slow demise of what had once been the wildest experience around.

The flamingo tripper had once left revellers screaming with glee and delight as they spun and whizzed through the air amidst the blasts of water from the wild machine below. Loud music played as the fanfare of onlookers echoed in the summer air.

This was an old ride now but the stories from that magical old machine would still be told by campfires and in the warm glow of the heat by the lake. A reminder of how summertime used to be...

Edmondson's "Flamingo Tripper is given a new lease of life on a reborn EP from Lissoms alongside a number of reworks of the sought after House classic. The Letherette remix was our pick of the bunch.

Flamingo Tripper Remix

PREMIERE: Edmondson - Flamingo Tripper (Letherette Version)[Lissoms]

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. 

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

All credit to J Choirboy for making a tune that sounds exactly like it's title suggests. For those of you too young to remember, Fantazia was one of the legendary early 90s mega-raves held in The Sanctuary in Milton Keynes - and J Choirboy has knocked together a sublime piece of breakbeat throwback in homage [read more on Ransom Note here - http://www.theransomnote.co.uk/music/premieres-exclusive-streams/premiere-j-choirboy-fantazia/ ]

Premiere: J Choirboy - Fantazia

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

The days had grown long and tiresome, there was little light in the place in which he sat. Four walls surrounded his very being, he had not known he would miss her as much as this once she had gone. Now there was little left to do but brush the tears from his eyes, dive, dance and enter the abyss of a new and wonderful world. Only, without her. 

Folamour steps up to deliver a five track EP for the newly formed imprint Noire & Blanche. He blends emotive melodic twists with percussion and club sensibilities.

PREMIERE: Folamour - You Never Told Me I'll Miss U That Much [Noire & Blanche]

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]

The sonics inside the metal chamber were at times overwhelming. The factory continued to pump out goods at a rate of flying proportions. They were now the industry leader and the Mu Tai empire was ready to capitalise on the industrial revolution. Soon enough their world of magic would be unleashed upon the unsuspecting, revolutionising the life and times of people far and wide. In his tall tower he observed the work from a glass prism, little did he know that he was being watched. 

X-Coast steps up with a sensational heavy hitting EP on UNDERTHESEA Records. Rave cuts which sit somewhere between beautiful soundscapes and purpose built club destruction.

Transformations EP

PREMIERE: X-Coast -  Mu Tai feat DJ RaDa [UNDERTHESEA]

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.

Read & Download

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

Many might not know how exciting the nightlife and music scene is in St. Petersburg. Home to a younger generation, due to its heavy student population, the Russian city has become a hot spot for headsy venues, great club nights and, of course, a host of talented DJs soundtracking them.

Sasha Balykova is one of them. Under the name Errortica she's been hosting her Melomantica show on Russia's TEST FM for the last two years, spreading her favourite finds and inviting DJs from around the world to join her. Recently she's made her first moves into production, contributing a track to Parisian music platform and label Les Yeux Orange for their Driving Safely compilation which was quickly followed up by her debut EP Safely Stowed.

To celebrate the release, we invited her to step up for today's mix, delivering a collection of wonky, melodic cuts and dubbed-out rhythms.

Errortica: The 'Wednesday Alternative' 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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