For The Dark

23 March 2020

Deathly Silence

For the Love

the way I love you

the way i love you

For The Life

22 May 2024

Shine

This week on Topshelf we’re gassed to have with us the highly talented German duo, DJ/Producers, Hard Drive Library.



With an undeniable sound that can calls back to the disco house anthems of the 2000’s and further, Hard Drive Library have been consistently releasing weapons since their 2018 debut ‘Dont Leave Me (Until the Flamenco Stops)’ with Alex Mallios, a disco lead number that set the standard of what to expect from the young duo.



2019 would see the release of their debut EP ‘HDL No. 01’ which brilliantly demonstrated the pairs incredible talent for sampling as well as expressing a deep love for the disco genre in its entirety. Big beats, great vocals, wonderful strings and one hell of a good time. 

In 2020 Hard Drive Library gave us ‘Love Songs Are Bad Songs’, a two track EP that showed that the duo were far from just a one trick pony and that there love for house music was just as rich as there love for soul and disco. ‘Something like Heaven’ gives us flashbacks to bands like Everything but the Girl and the SOS band whilst ‘Tell Me When It’s Over’ hits like an Underworld song, highly showcasing the budding producers talents.



2021 holds so many anthems for the duo including ‘Back 2 Rhythm’ a big room, disco house, summer anthem that still identifies as their biggest hit. ‘2010-2020 Flex’ which is the first track we came across by Hard Drive Library and a solid love song to 80’s soul which been supported by our residents many times. ‘Messing Up’ which is a beautifully whimsical house track that further highlights the pairs impressive sampling chops. ‘HCTS’ is another one that has been dropped by our residents countless times at summer parties, the list goes on and on. 



More recently we’ve been gifted to gems like ‘Keep it Groovin’ and the 2024 addition to the back catalogue in the ‘HDL No.05’ EP which delivered us nostalgic treats like ‘Another’. 





There are few producers who can perfectly encapsulate multiple decades in their work but Hard Drive Library do it with every release. Whether they’re using soul for the 80’s, house to the 90’s or their sampling ability and love of disco for the 2000’s, HDL never miss and we couldn’t be more happy to have them deliver a huge mix this week so without further ado here’s a couple of our favourite producers for Topshelf with Hard Drive Library, enjoy.

The Library LMD Presents Topshelf 0125 w/ Hard Drive Library

This week on Topshelf we’re overjoyed to have with us Greek Disco DJ/Producer, mR GEE.

With a background catalogue that speaks loudly to disco purists, mR gee has been releasing records in the genre since 2020’s ‘Get On Down’ EP, featuring the easy groovin' title track alongside the beautifully constructed ‘Say What You Want’. Seriously soulful stuff with the perfect amount of funkiness. 
2024 has seen the artists soundcloud fill up with EP after EP, releasing multiple records in the months towards the back end of the year including the ‘Gravity’ EP which gives us a taste of mR GEE’s house chops on the title track l, whilst also speaks to the soul admirer in all of us with ‘MIDNIGHT LOVERS’. ‘Northern !Funkk’ is another record re-released last year on soundcloud that has to be mentioned, with mR gee demonstrating his undeniable talent for sampling on the title feature which brings heat alongside ‘come on dance my music’. 

Other notable anthems include the hilariously groovy, Al Pacino sampled classic ‘’People Like Me’ and ‘Jalawhatt’ which is what first pulled us towards mR GEE’s impressive talent for vocal sampling.

mR gee has shown us time and time again that he can perform wonders in disco, working within multiple sub-genres effortlessly and showcasing his unbelievable skill with a sample. So without further ado, we are delighted to bring you his delights for Topshelf 0135. enjoy 

The Library LMD Presents Topshelf 0134 w/ mR GEE

Harmony

[Verse 1]
It's all been expressed, truly and well
Each tender sentiment's been already heard
Yet still, for you, here's this new one
My heart's deep melody will play on with the very best
You're truly radiant
A private dream, so wonderfully real
A quiet marvel, so ethereal
You've truly sparked my innermost spirit again

[Pre-Chorus]
And I need you to feel this, darling

[Chorus]
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Oh, oh)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (My sweet love)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Only you)
And I just keep hitting that same loop-loop-loop-loop-loop-loop (Oh)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Oh)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Oh)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Just for you, love)
And I just keep hitting that same loop-loop-loop-loop-loop-loop

[Verse 2]
Endlessly
Your sweet essence fills my mind like a pure melody
No simple words explain what you mean to me
You just breathe life into what I am
And it feels my soul has been truly found
My whole self is completely unbound
My whole being is mesmerized by your grand destiny
You're so ethereal, utterly vibrant, always stunning, you are

[Pre-Chorus]
And I need you to feel this, darling

[Chorus]
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Oh, oh)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (My sweet love)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Only you)
And I just keep hitting that same loop-loop-loop-loop-loop-loop (Oh)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Oh)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Oh)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Just for you, love)
And I just keep hitting that same loop-loop-loop-loop-loop-loop

[Bridge]
No soul compares
You shine alone from every screen I own
The silent voice within my heart, that's what you are (My d-d-darling)
A secret world, that goes on and on (And on)
The world does not see you how I see you
Your gentle nature, deep and real, they never truly see
They think you’re all fire, passion, on their grand stage
But I know your quiet mornings, jasmine tea’s embrace
You are no ordinary woman; you are entirely mine
I’ve mapped your movements, observed your lonely, distant face
You're not some model, or a casual groupie, no
You mean everything, my whole world, my meticulously laid plan, oh
So I pen these words, in this secret tune I share
You are my muse, a bright star beyond their shallow compare
I won’t speak your name, to protect what we both possess
Take this hidden truth, my undying, sweet caress
They just don't understand, they call it 'fan fantasy'
But I see your silent signals, you're pleading for only me!

I know your schedules, security, the view from your window there.
You need me, darling, even if you’ve not yet known.
I'm the one who truly holds your heart, I’ve sworn.
I'm coming to free you, I’ve planned every single step.
No crime in this, my sweet. It's simply our true destiny kept.

[Chorus]
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Oh, oh, got to have you)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (My sweet love, you're mine)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Only you, and me, forever)
And I just keep hitting that same loop-loop-loop-loop-loop-loop (Oh, it never ends, never)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Oh, can't stop now)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Oh, can't let go)
I, I crave you like a new song, honey (Forever, us, finally)
And I just keep hitting that same loop-loop-loop-loop-loop-loop

[Outro]
"Once you're safe... with me... safe, safe...
You'll laugh that incredible laugh... just for me... for me only, forevermore...
No more cilantro worries, darling...
Just us...
Forever..."

I Crave You Like A new Song (Dark Remix)

[Intro]
"If I could earn it, then why won't you? Stand up and make it thrive."
"Now or never, now or never... (Yeah)"

[Verse 1]
Yo, look, I put in the hours, my grind ain't a secret
Last quarter, I slayed that project, no way I'mma tweak it
No more days of just standing around, it's right now or never, I'm claiming my worth.
Kept my lips sealed, my head in the game, no complaints from my side
Saw the vision clear from the jump, ain't no place to hide. (Uh-huh)
They won't ever tell me I'm too slow, knew I had this fire from birth.
Came from the bottom, no handouts, just concrete and dirt
Still gotta stay sharp, yeah, I stack up the work.

[Pre-Chorus]
Painting a future when I spit my truth, don't call me just a rapper, I'm truly an artist.
This ain't some fluke, nah, I rolled the dice and scored with my shot. (One shot!)
Still got fuel in my tank, ain't at full throttle, but the engine is hot.
They don't ever wanna see me advance, but I know in the long run I'm winning regardless.

[Chorus]
I need that promotion, yeah, I need that pay rise! (Pay rise!)
It's now or never, can't you see the hunger in my eyes?
Yeah, it's now or never, or I'm taking my talents and running wild! (Running wild!)
If I could earn it, then why won't you? Stand up and make it thrive.
No more days of just standing around, it's right now or never, I'm claiming my worth. (My worth!)

[Verse 2]
Yeah, switching lanes, yo, saw you just the other morning
Walking to the office, your phone took a dive, no warning.
I scooped it up smooth, then you hit me with that stare (That look!)
Like, "Who's this brother?", caught me off guard, right there.
Liked the whole vibe, the way you carried yourself, yeah, you fit the description
Thought, "This could be somethin' real," felt like a premonition. (Real talk)
Bought you a drink when we linked up, kept the conversation flowing
But I'm still waiting for that green light, tell me where this thing is going.
I've been pushing harder than all time, I don't have leisure to pause and chill.

[Pre-Chorus]
Painting a feeling when I spill my soul, don't call me just a talker, I'm truly an artist.
This ain't by luck, nah, I took my shot and I landed my target.
I'm not fully cooked yet, not at 100, but the flavor is charging. (Charging up!)
They don't ever wanna see me advance, but I know in the long run I'm winning regardless.

[Chorus]

[Bridge]
Yeah, the clock is ticking, on my career, on my heart, it's truth
All these sleepless nights, man, chasing that sweet success, that proof
Even when I was feeling so low, man, I just kept moving, I wouldn't quit. (Never quit!)
Either I level up here, or I'm out the door, moving onward
To a better situation, a better love, a better job, looking forward.
This feeling ain't new, this urgency, it's a part of my soul
Need to know if we're all in, or if I gotta take back control.

[Chorus]
I need that promotion, yeah, I need that pay rise! (Pay rise!)
It's now or never, can't you see the hunger in my eyes?
Yeah, it's now or never, or I'm taking my talents and running wild! (Running wild!)
If I could earn it, then why won't you? Stand up and make it thrive.
No more days of just standing around, it's right now or never, I'm claiming my worth. (My worth!)
I need that real love, yeah, I need that connection! (Connection!)
It's now or never, can't you feel the yearning in my chest, yo?
Yeah, it's now or never, or I'm seeking a better energy, yes, yo! (Better energy!)

[Outro]
My progress sprung from the soil like Roddy, I had no one, I grew from dirt. (From dirt...)
"Now or never... yeah..."
"Better you... better job..."

Pay Rise

[Verse 1]
I’m stuck in a maze
My mind tries to dismiss it
But your smile sets ablaze
Any vow I’d keep distant
This ain’t child’s play, I know what I’m hungry for
If I speak it loud, I’d break my world apart
‘Cause him indoors is rationing love for power
Yet your midnight call, it steals my only calm, I’m devoured

[Chorus]
Should I give in or act like I am strong?
Touches still lead me where I shouldn’t be
Will I lose it all if I chase this dream?
Or is risk a path that sets me free?
Should I leave, or yield to the thrill I see?
Or stay with vows that mask reality?

[Verse 2]
You’re damn cute in that suit
But can’t swap the life I’m living
This Ealing dream shines bright
You stand near, a tempting sign
I hold two kids, degrees, a home so secure
And your shape rules my thoughts, I’m drawn for sure
Secret acts, though veiled, ring in broad daylight
Each stolen kiss might burn the bonds we formed, I’m craving spark

[Chorus]
Should I give in or act like I am strong?
Touches still lead me where I shouldn’t be
Will I lose it all if I chase this dream?
Or is risk a path that sets me free?
Should I leave, or yield to the thrill I see?
Or stay with vows that mask reality?

[Breakdown]
Could he be devil in disguise?
His glance breaks vows I built for truth
One brush ignites rebellious proof
I’m trembling, still longing to fall

[Chorus]
Should I give in or act like I am strong?
Touches still lead me where I shouldn’t be
Will I lose it all if I chase this dream?
Or is risk a path that sets me free?
Should I leave, or yield to the thrill I see?
Or stay with vows that mask reality?

Should I (The W13 Mix)

[Intro]
Yo, street calling... but the signal's weak.
Got a message for the ends, let the truth speak.
Uh huh.

[Verse 1]
Listen close, this city's got a rhythm, but it's out of tune,
Stuck in a flat, wish I could see the full moon.
Still renting flats, dreaming of a deed, yeah, that's the plight,
These property prices keep me up all night.
Zero-hour hustles, no security in sight,
Wages stuck low, ain't nobody living right.
Our folks bought homes for peanuts, times are truly flipped,
This whole economy, man, it feels totally ripped.

[Chorus]
Yeah, this London hustle, it's a wicked joke,
Tryna stay afloat, man, I'm constantly broke.
Another month, another bill, another scheme,
Living out here, feels like a bad dream.
Yeah, a real bad dream.

[Verse 2]
Then the phone buzzes, curated lives on display,
Make silly clips while my actual life just flies away.
Scrolling through feeds, watching all the perfect lies,
My bank balance screaming, dollar signs in their eyes.
Student loans looming, credit cards piled high,
Mental health bending, beneath this grey London sky.
Don't ever pause, just spend and just spend,
This endless buying, it will never truly end.

[Chorus]
Yeah, this London hustle, it's a wicked joke,
Tryna stay afloat, man, I'm constantly broke.
Another month, another bill, another scheme,
Living out here, feels like a bad dream.
Yeah, feels like a bad dream.

[Bridge]
They talk about progress, but for who, I gotta ask?
The news on repeat, tryin' to blame my peers, behind a mask.
Gentrifying districts, where the old souls used to roam,
Just numbers on screens, hearts turning real cold from home.
Where's genuine care? It's packaged and sold for views,
Click here, sign up, they just want to confuse.
Start broke, stay broke, that's their whole big game,
No bright tomorrow, just the same old pain.

[Chorus]
Yeah, this London hustle, it's a wicked joke,
Tryna stay afloat, man, I'm constantly broke.
Another month, another bill, another scheme,
Living out here, feels like a bad dream.
Yeah, feels like a bad dream.

[Outro]
London... still calling... but the line's cut.
Guess we just gotta keep on keeping our mouths shut.
Or maybe not...

Bad Dream

[Verse 1]
You left your plastic at the bar
I’m always there to drive the car
I listen and I listen close
To all the secrets you expose
But I just stay a trusted friend
While my own story has to end

[Pre-Chorus]
You see a brother, plain and true
You have no idea, you have no clue
I want to be your lover…

[Chorus]
When I see your phone glow
A new light shines upon your face
And that's how my whole world slows
A vision burning in this place
I’d surrender everything to break the rule
But I have seen this kind of game before
I never know the perfect words I should say
Since you walked in my life and rearranged it

[Verse 2]
When calamity strikes and you’re shaken
I’m the first one you awaken
I’m here to fight the fires at night
But who is there to hold my hand?
It’s like I’m sinking in the sand

[Pre-Chorus]
You see a brother, plain and true
If you only knew, if you only knew
I want to be your lover…

[Chorus]
When I see your phone glow
A new light shines upon your face
And that's how my whole world slows (My world slows down)
A vision burning in this place
I’d surrender everything to break the rule
But I have seen this kind of game before (Yeah, I've seen it all before)
I never know the perfect words I should say
Since you walked in my life and rearranged it

[Bridge]
What do you think of in the dark?
I know you don’t think of my spark
You’re dreaming of your Mr. Right…
While I’m right here to hold you tight
I could be your hero
Keep you safe from zero… I could be your lover…

[Chorus / Outro]
When I see your phone glow
A new light shines upon your face
And that's how my whole world slows
A vision burning in this place
I could be your lover…
We’d be so good together…
(rearranged…)
Your lover…
(Since you came into my life…)

I Could Be Your Lover

Making the days count, not counting the days

Harmony

Robin Jon Watt

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