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DJ GRH (UK) 12/12/01 |
JAY B & PARLIAMENT DJ'S - 'SHAKE YOU UP' / 'DON'T BE AFRAID' (RAVAGE, UK)
Those who utilised Jay B's previous offerings will know that there is more than the standard thud of the 4x4 kick drum to play with on his releases. Complete with insane scratches and wild spinbacks, 'Shake You Up' builds nicely into a discrete break. A simple track, with (in all honesty) not a great deal going on. But that's the attraction - the emphasis is on Jay B's excellent simplicity. 'Don't be afraid' wastes no time in looped 'drum beats got like this' samples with a funky guitar helping to forming a funkier feel to a pumping track. The break is plain, but effective, and forms a gradual increase in mayhem towards the end of the track. So far, so good for Sean Stanley (Eufex) and Ravage Records.
(MP3 /
Buy)
DEFECTIVE AUDIO - THE DOM-N8R EP ('PUMP UP THE VOLUME' (Original, Bass Graffiti mixes) / 'ON YOUR MARKS' / 'OVERDRIVE YO SPEAKERS') (WASA-B, CANADA)
Hard to believe that it is still only on its 6th release, Wasa B return with a double pack of sheer quality. We're offered two mixes of 'Pump Up The Volume' - the original has Dom Sweeten's trademark sound all over it, whereas the Bass Graffiti mixes features a more driving bassline. Strangely enough, both are similarly paced and not too dissimilar, but they can be used in total differing interludes of sets. I'd go for the original for an intelligent work up, for example. 'Overdrive Yo Speakers' is nice - an echoed bassline works its way into an 'old skool riff' style break which gives way to a dark and dirty pumping finish. 'On Your Marks' is, again, minimal in its approach and finalises evidence of a great package. Been a bit hit with Anne Savage recently.
(MP3 /
Buy)
TNT - 'DO IT' (Original, Karim mixes) (HARD TRAX, UK)
Fans of Tom and Jaf's work on Sundissential and on their own 'Influx' imprint will enjoy the latest offering from the boys. 'Do It' could be said to be their most frantic offering to date - all the usual energetic components are here and once again it is at 'that' level which will see it do damage on Northern and Southern floors. A noticeably slower (but just as thumping!) work out awaits from Karim on the flip. Low bass, hard hitting kick drums and all the standard Karim elements are here - thus, it fails to disappoint. I'm a fan of all artists and, as I am getting two very different versions, I admire the variety.
(MP3 /
Buy)
CHRIS C & THE DOKTOR - 'DEAD ON A RIVAL' (Original, Doktor's mixes) (PIRATE WAX, UK)
I spoke in my last batch of reviews at my excitement at labels like Pirate Wax that push the new ideas within the sub-genres that we have available to us already. If you like things on a harder scale with bubbling acidic basslines, a riff to assist the exhilarated nature of track and an insane / shouted vocal to add to the full-on temper, then the original is a safe bet. It'll be one of those that people will be screaming on the dancefloor - but yet, not have a clue what the words are actually saying! The ferocious nature of Dave Edge's remix does little to give any tranquility to the situation. Arguably just the harder of the two workouts, the vocal is again utilised in an overall more industrial feel. Once again, as you'd expect, the production is tight and concise. Super stuff.
SATELLITE KIDZ - 'FUNKY NUTZ' / 'CAN U FEEL IT?' (TIDY TRAX, UK)
Upon first hearing 'Funky Nutz', I was surprised. Given that I knew it was forthcoming on Tidy, I knew that it was the work of Dom Sweeten and Superfast Oz, but it certainly has more of a Jas Van Houten feel to it. In other words, it's great buildup material. A discrete bassline forms the base for a groovy, but not overpowering riff. I suppose its not a million miles off some of the lighter Joff Roach material too. It still features that trademark 'technological' sound of the OD404 boys though. 'Can U Feel It' offers a different perspective of the boys work - its much more what we're used to and it doesn't disappoint. It seems a lot harder than the flip and can work dancefloor earlier (pitched around zero) or later on. The applicability of this offering is broad.
(MP3 /
Buy)
JAF & TOM / THE DRUGSTORE COWBOYS - 'ROCK THAT' / 'HYPERTENSION' (INFLUX, UK)
The charismatic mayhem of Jaf & Tom is once again apparent in the third release from the so far consistent Influx label - they're own. 'Hypertension' is the pick of the two for me - a pumping bassline is joined by a sensation of madness of riffs which eventually give us all a few second break before launching back with a bigger onslaught. It's madness - and it's catchy. Flip over and 'Rock That' is one of the most energetic I've heard from the boys who have sprung the limelight with what is becoming known as they're trademark sound. Pumping basslines, repetitive riffs and a short break make for yet another good crossover anthem from these two.
(MP3 /
Buy)
PROKINETIX - 'VOODOO' / 'CRAZY FRESH DJ' (AZTEC, UK)
Always a tough task following on from anything from Mike Ash (Aztec 18), number 19 of the Aztec stable HAD to deliver. Cause and Effect's Phil Cogan and Pete Wallis are drafted in for his first attempt. 'Voodoo' features a rather sexy vocal cut which, surprisingly, layered on top of a hard hitting bassline works very well indeed. We are introduced to a rising acidic riff on the latter part of the break, which then continues to intensify to form a good grand finale. Expect much of the same on the flip until an electrifying current feels like its been pumped into the track - it seems to result in a gear shift upwards. Complete with a few spinback effects and 'crazy silly fresh DJ' samples, this is well worth checking.
(MP3 /
Buy)
FUNKAHOLIC - 'MY HOUSE' / 'LUNA CONGA' / 'SLOW VIBE' (UNTIDY TRAX, UK)
A recent spurt of Unitdy material from the Tidy Trax stable has signified their dedicated nature to take a step back and opt for an alternative path that is familiar to them. In my opinion, Holland's FD Henderson offered us pure Untidy quality, so this release had to keep some form of consistency. 'My House' is driving but progressive at the same time - its perfect warmup material with a 'bubbling under' bassline and gentle advancing nature. I've spoken before of my desire to have variety on these kinds of releases - if we're getting a good package of different lighter material, then I am happy. Imagine my delight then at 'Luna Conga' - groovy vocals and good use of filtering make this sound like a very laid back Joff Roach piece. Flipping over, we're met with 'Slow Vibe'. Pick of the three perhaps? I'm thinking so. Careful attention to percussion, good filtering once again and general consistency to keep things mellow - in line with the rest of the tracks. Very impressive - let's hope we see plenty more from FD Henderson.
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Buy)
LITTLE JON & TIM PRIESTLEY - 'THE FUTURE' / 'RENEGADE' (NADA, UK)
OK, lets face it - after tracks like 'Rock The Beat' (which was picked up from Nada by Peter Pritchard of Nukleuz), we're not going to hold out much hope for doing anything as substantial for the forthcoming releases, are we? Upon listening to 'The Future', I am encouraged once again by the clear cut sound of the production and the close attention to layered percussion. It builds, it breaks and it carries on in driving fashion. It's a fantastic track, but you can't help feeling that we've been spoilt by the boys' release on Nukleuz. Then, you listen to 'Renegade'. It kicks off harder, faster and (like 'Rock The Beat') features a long introduction before we hear any kind of bassline. A counted down vocal sample leads us into the bassline and away we go again - its at this stage that you realise it 'could' be a contender to match 'Rock The Beat'. It's after realising that another layer of bass is added, an old skool style riff is used in the break and everything is put together that you begin to question how they've manage to succeed in another stormer. Worth a round of applause at least! Fantastic - and No.1 in my hard house / nu-NRG chart for this month.
(MP3 /
Buy)
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DJ GRH (UK) 11/05/01 |
OD404 - 'HOUSE ON FIRE' (Original, Paul Janes Mixes) (RECHARGE, UK)
Simon Eve's Recharge label (part of the React stable) has always been one to watch with consistent (but varied) releases from the likes of Mr Bishi, Paul Glazby, The Captain and Steve Thomas, Joff Roach and others. I am happy to say that OD404 and Paul Janes' contributions here do not falter this trend. OD404 deliver one of their most dancefloor friendly cuts yet with a crazy spinback sample and 'that' sexy 'the music just turns me on' sample. Once again, its great build up material. Its hard to pick a favoured mix out of the two available as they both serve very different purposes. Paul's mix kicks off with twisted basslines and proceeds to provide a very banging alternative. Funnily enough though, I pitch this one down and use it as build up material as well, although it can be used for that 'full on effect'. Again, good vocal snippets and some great 'twisted hoovers' to go with the bassline make this a good, varied package. Bring on #7 - something different again please!
(MP3 /
Buy)
PAUL GLAZBY - 'BEAUTIFUL' (Original, OD404, Paul Janes, Edison Factor Remixes) (VICIOUS CIRCLE, UK)
A lot of hype has surrounded this one with the expectant quality of the Vicious Circle label building high anticipation. With a string of quality producers queuing up to remix it, even before hearing this you'd expect quality. Listen to it and, well, make up your own mind. OD404's take fails to disappoint - their trademark intelligence stamped all over the flip side. Twisted hard house electro and an unsurprising more subdued take on the original. Quite brilliant. Mr Glazby's gorgeous original will go down as one of the label's finest releases to date. Rugged percussion and a menacing bassline form the base of another Vicious Circle trademark. Certainly, its got a feel of 'Kick It' about it. It builds and builds into the break where we are introduced into an uplifting riff that will see damage done on dancefloors across the UK - expect chaos here, there and everywhere. Rolling snares build the pressure out of the break before we all go completely crazy for the last few precious minutes.
(MP3 /
Buy)
TITCHY BITCH & FALLEN ANGEL - 'IMMORTAL' / 'EVERYBODY FEEL NOW' (PHANTOM TRAX, UK)
Carla Titchy Bitch and Annabelle Fallen Angel are two of the scenes hardest working ladies. They both run reputable labels and work tirelessly. Their friendship has lead to great work with 'Ghetto Pimp' on One Inch gaining good recognition. Once again, like most releases that I have sought through this month, both sides are distinctly different - making them a good value package. 'Music is Immortal' is energetic and sounds not too dissimilar to Steve Blake and Owen B work on Fevah. What strikes me of this track is the way it continues to build into the break. An echoed drum frenzy then gives way to a belled riff for a frantic race to the finishing line with a particular tasty key change. As if that wasn't enough, the flip actually does the most damage for me. Hard hitting kicks and snares on 'Everybody Feel Now' are complimented with a bassline of similar proportions. The vocal in this is wicked (although its bugging the hell out of me as to where its sampled from - I am sure one of the girls will tell me!). Another builder which just gets more and more euphoric as time goes on - use it to increase dancefloor pressure. I'll cut the patronising crap about it looking like 'the girls are giving the boys a run for their money' as Carla and Annabelle are showing qualities of experience that deserve the utmost respect. Lets have more like this on Phantom please.
(MP3 /
Buy)
MUZZ & BIG NODDY - 'BEAT OF THE KICK DRUM' (On The Floor, Tuff Mixes) (SAUCY HOUSE, UK)
Based in the South, DJ Muzz has drafted in the assistance of Dynamic Intervention on previous releases to keep the consistency of the label. #4 here is, in my opinion, the label's best offering yet. The 'On the Floor' mix seems like a gentler mix of the 'Tuff Mix' which is the pick of the two for me. This features hard hitting percussion and a bassline to match - sounding not a million miles away from some of the tougher Vicious Circle material. An ascending-descending riff forms a nice 'party' aspect to what could be otherwise described as a hard track. The break is superb too and ensures that this track will crossover - rocking both Sundissential and Frantic dancefloors.
(MP3 /
Buy)
CHRIS C & THE DOKTOR - 'NAKED' / 'TERRA NOVA' (MOHAWK, UK)
Heavy basslines kick-start 'Naked' and give you the feel that there's something special about to happen. Wasting no time in euphoric proportions, we are then treated to riffs that eventually break into what many early listeners have compared to Cygnus X's 'Orange Theme'. It's dark, almost 'scary', energetic and certainly lives up to Chris's promise that this will be the opener in a new twist to the Mohawk label. Twisted tech-trance at its best. 'Terra Nova' on the flip, understandably, doesn't rate as highly as 'Naked' but is well in the same vein and proves that not every track of this nature has to be a full-on hands in the air stomper. Great, patient 'fill' material. Buy two copies and play 'Terra Nova' before 'Naked' ;)! If this is the way that Mohawk's heading (to incorporate more continental influences especially from Germany), then that's fine by me! (Coming Soon)
CHRIS C & DAVE NATION - 'CONTROLLED DESCENT' (Original & Parachute Mixes) (MOHAWK, UK)
This is the kind of material that you need to be using towards the end of a night after a darker, harder session. Driving tech trance from Chris C and Dave Edge and a forthcoming beauty. The original is the pick of the two for me which features some very discrete, acidic goings on and continues to keep the energy flowing after the break. The 'Parachute Mix' was recently described by Chris as 'Red Pill Remix Influenced' - an avid description which requires no additional comments from myself. Will please followers of Mohawk and newbies to the label. Very good. (Coming Soon)
CHRIS C - 'A DROP OF THE HARD STUFF' (Mark Kavanagh/Titchy Bitch Mixes) (PIRATE WAX, UK)
The term 'innovative' could include some kind of friction within the percussion, perhaps a fresh tempo, use of the vocal and so on. Chris C, however, pulls out all the stops and with a 'shit or bust' kind of approach opts for a building track that uses Irish music within the break. Having lived in Ireland and picked up a fondness for the atmosphere, I welcomed this combination of hard dance and Irish music energy. A fulfilling combination and a strong personal favourite. It seems applicable that Mark Kavanagh should supply a worthy remix (but I still prefer the original). Titchy Bitch's Carla is still preparing. (Coming Soon)
PAUL MADDOX - 'PAUL MADDOX EP' ('CONFESSION' / 'KALEIDOSCOPE' / '??') (TIDY TRAX, UK)
Paul's name sprung to the limelight with his huge 'Set You Free' retake - an energetic, thriving debut that caused absolute havoc up and down the country - none more so than places like Sundissential and Insomniacz. This saw Paul immediately snapped up by Tidy Trax where he works full time engineering along side the likes of Paul Glazby, Mark Grey, Jez & Charlie and so on. Paul hasn't let his own production slip thankfully and a 'Paul Maddox EP' is planned. Early critics of Paul who failed to recognise that his 'Set You Free' retake was intended for a certain market will be hard pushed to find fault with Paul's new material. To say that he's progressed his sound is very much an understatement. 'Confession' approaches things from a hard trance angle with clear cut production. Strangely enough, despite new equipment and obvious new methods, it still somehow has the Maddox trademark all over it. My pick of the two though is 'Kaleidoscope' which is in similar fashion but features a defying high pitched synth riff during the break which will break dancefloors up and down the country. Together with driving bass and overall euphoric feel, we could see special things for Tidy and for Paul with this one. Both tracks will be joined by another which Paul has emphasised will be radically different again. I'll keep you posted on this one. (Coming Soon)
EAST COAST COLLECTIVE - 'ROCK DA PLACE' / 'TRUTH' (CHUNK, UK)
I find Chunk material to be very kind of 'middle of the road' in the respect that it is certainly not tame by any means, but it isn't exactly firing on all four cylinders either. This is good. Think about it. If every label was concentrating on build up 'material' then we wouldn't get any where. Similarly, if every label sought to produce 'hands in the air monsters' then we'd get bored of the over use of euphoria. 'Rock Da Place' exemplifies this - it is pounding and builds well without going overboard. 'Truth' is similar in mannerism but doesn't really do as much for me as what 'Rock Da Place' does. We need material like this if we're going to form any kind of progression.
(MP3 /
Buy)
SAFE N' SOUND - 'LOST SOULS' / 'MANTRA' (TOAST)
If end of the night hard trance is your bag, then 'Lost Souls' will do the trick nicely. Toast has always been known for its cutting edge hard trance sound. I seem to remember getting #2, listening to Jon Doe's 'Phase 1' and thinking "..this label won't bring out a better release..Ó. Whilst, after listening to both 'Lost Souls' and 'Mantra', I still stick by this theory, I have to admit that 'Lost Souls' comes pretty damn close. Driving synths, pure euphoria during the break make this an end of the night monster for me - think Phil Reynolds coming to the end of a screamer. 'Mantra' is an ever so slightly lighter affair that would fit in well early or mid set.
(MP3 /
Buy)
ILOGIK & BAZOOKA JOE - 'KING OF ROCK' / 'MAKE THE BEAT POUND' (ELASTICMAN, UK)
What is about Ilogik's sound? Personally, I listen carefully to 'Northern' style hard house to see how well it is constructed and how much attention to creativity has been given. This IS definitely Northern bouncy hard house but somehow features a creative energy and that trademark Elasticman sound. Both tracks are of a similar vein with 'King of Rock' holding the more familiar vocal - it also features A HELL of a break. In order for the Northern sound to cut it with me, it has to have a certain 'energy' to it and some paid attention to maintaining this flow. I am happy to say that this does and is very reminiscent of some wicked sets from Ilogik at Insomniacz.
(MP3 /
Buy)
ORGAN DONORS - 'MAD AS HELL' (Original, Chris C's 'Tom Who?.. Remix) (MOHAWK, UK)
Chris's remix takes things on a much slower pace than what we're used to from him and utilises the angry 'I am as mad as hell' vocal to form a much funkier approach. The build up to come out of the break forms a burst into action - as Chris says, it's still 'accessible' material but it does push the boundaries of what we are used to. The original makes more use of the vocal and utilises a more energetic bassline. The break is superb - slowing right down to speed back up into a frenzy with the vocal proclaiming 'I am as mad as hell and I am not gonna take this any more!!!' seeming apt for the overall feel of the track. A good, mixed package if you like a bit of both.
YOJI BIOMEHANIKA - ANASTHASIA 2001 / CRASH BOOM BANG (RHYTHM REPUBLIC, JAPAN)
At a time when the UK hard house scene has split into a North / South divide, we're finding that external influences are more than welcome to an otherwise predictable scene. Enter 'Yoji Biomehanika' - a tatooed, fiery Japanese nice guy with his instalment of fierce techno and associated styles. How appropriate then, that Yoji should be the one to give the T99 classic 'Anasthasia' another crack. He doesn't disappoint - hard kicks and original vocal stabs contribute to a 'noisy' introduction which then give way to a substantial break. The original riff is utilised to produce a headlong finish. The flip side - 'Crash Boom Bang' is exactly what the title says but seems comparably tame to the other side. Nevertheless, its different and certainly pumping - definitely more on the techy side of things. Pure quality! (Coming Soon)
MADAM ZU - 'SORTED BY NUMBER' (LAB 4 MIX) / CHRIS C - 'DIRTY TALK' (P/C) (MOHAWK, UK)
The final (fourth) release of the 2nd instalment of gatefold vinyl from Mohawk fails to disappoint. Being a big Lab 4 freak myself, I check the label and expect their remix to be my favourite. True, the 'come againÉstop' repetitive vocals do add to the track and make it a perfect builder but the flip is my personal pick. The trademark driving energy of Pants & Corset stamped onto this beauty makes it one of my favourite pieces of their work so far. Building and building (as seen with so many of their remixes), this one waits patiently before unleashing one hell of a break with some amazing, lissome synths. By the time all the percussion has kicked back in, the dancefloor should (quite rightly so) be ON FIRE! Superb stuff!
(MP3 /
Buy)
EUFEX - 'CHAINED' / 'ARSE!' (RAVAGE, UK)
The start of a new label from Sean Stanley aka Eufex and a very impressive debut. Sean, in my opinion, has never really been given the full credit that he deserves. Releases on Arriba, Mohawk and many others place him up there with the likes of Mr Janes and Mr Keen in my opinion. 'Chained' really does the damage. Deep basslines and a nice build up give way to some 'screamy vocals' and mid track euphoria before continuing in this vein to the end. Sean's engineering is second to none and is proved on big systems - this track has rocked many a dancefloor for me so far. The flip side - the rather disgustingly named 'Arse!' (why do images of 'Father Jack' spring to mind?!) continues to pump along in the same way but seems somewhat less distinct (despite the clever use of the distorted vocal), thus making it a great track to 'build' the progression of a set. Both track feature the trademark Eufex sound, you'll be pleased to know.
(MP3 /
Buy)
DIGITAL SCIENCE - 'DIGITAL EDGE' / 'SLAMMIN BEATZ' (AZTEC, UK)
Mike Ash once again dips into his vast sample range for 'Slammin Beatz' and places them around a break that builds a good energy. A good crossover track which features a bassline which is just at 'that' stage to please the southerners and northerners. Really though, it is superseded by 'Digital Edge' - Mike's take on the Edge 1 classic 'Compounded'. This is fantastic - vocal stabs, original percussion elements and the original riff is cut up to produce something that is both easily recognisable, but discrete at the same time. Mike's intelligence of the scene has ensured that he has not tried to create a monster, screaming anthem here - the original was that. Instead, we have a small slice of history - and a good one at that.
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Buy)
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Kemical Kidd 10/30/01 |
Defective Audio is back with his third release on Wasa-B records, and this time around its an amazing double pack (the Domin8r EP) that Im sure has a track or 2 for everyone. First up is his original mix of "Pump Up the Volume" which is pumping with twisted hoovers, mean and intelligent riffs, and of course an amazing bassline which Dom is known for. Flip the disc over and you will find "On Your Marks", a track with some very exciting synth leads that truely make song, however I did find the bassline a bit lacking. The 2nd disc has a Base Grafitti remix of "Pump Up the Volume" which I prefer over the original mix (which is also excellent) because of its meaner bassline, and riveting 303's. Last but not least is "Overdrive Your Speakers" which is a bit more on the techier side but it grooves real nicely with its great vocal cuts, nice b-line, a great melody in the breakdown and overall good production.
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Buy)
Made over 2 years ago, Justin Bournes "Time is Up" finally gets released as Kaktai 17 with Stimulant DJ's on the remix duties. Justin's orignal definatly a party track, chock full of hoovers, sirens, and other great sounds that work really well together as a whole. The Stimulant boys have updated the song in their trademark style, full of nice cuts which make the record fun to mix and a really nice take on the hoover from the original. In the break the stimulant dj's build it up by speeding the track faster and faster until it kicks back in full of energy.
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Buy)
Kaktai 18 is a nice change of pace from the usual hard house with its innovative sounds from Samuel E Reeve and Jon Rundell. "Killerhurtz" is real nice and techy as it grinds along with its mean 303's, definatly a track with attitude that is bound to go over well. "Burning" is the other track on this ep that makes it a 2 A-side release. This track is even techier then the flip with a nice rolling bassline and the main melody gives it an almost uk techno feel.
(MP3 /
Buy)
A tasty white label, Mission 67's "Flying Out" definatly caught my ears, with its innovative hard house, tech-trance crossover style. You get two fairly similar mixes to choose from (one about 5 bpm faster then the other) both have deep driving basslines and eerie cut up vocals that really give the track a nice flavor. The main riff is nice and menacing and definatly does the business.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Nukleuz is back on the remix front packing some new remixes of some classic tunes on the Hardbeat 19 pt. 2 EP. First up is Andy Farleys remix of "Please Fuck Me" by BK, which is a percussive and techy hard houser thats a good update to the original. The track has a nice punchy bassline, and a nice take on the original riff, and no build up out of the break, which is a nice refreshing change. On the flip Lee James, updates BK's "Dont Give Up" which is a big improvement over the original using nice lab 4 style gritty synth lines that sound really good. The downfall is it still uses the original melody that I was never a fan of.
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Buy)
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Beaker 10/10/01 |
BK's Hard Beat series on Nukleuzis back again with #18. The A-side, "Corrupt", is definitely one of the better Hard Beat tracks in some time. While it's not groundbreaking, it features all the best we've come to expect from BK. A dark track with a relentless bassline, compelling and catchy all at once. The flip is a funkier production with a techno-feel. A pleasant departure from his standard fare.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Also received this month was BK's remix of "Rubb It In" by Fierce Ruling Diva on Recharge. Tinrib fans will remember the sample from Karim's "Up in the Air". Needless to say, it was the "throw your hands up in the air" sample that initially attracted me to this tune and it works quite well for the first bit, then everything seems to go wrong. The first half has a nice, dark BK feel but after the breakdown we've got a really uninteresting synth line and the production seems like it drops back in weaker as opposed fiercer. The original mix on the flip plays down around 125 bpm and clearly wasn't meant to be played in a hardhouse/NRG set.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Up next is Karim and Kultcha with "Wicked". This is Wasa-B's fifth release to date and Kultcha's first release since starting the label late last year. A hearty congratulations goes out as this is one of the more interesting releases I've heard in a while. Not quite hardhouse, not quite Nu-NRG, this track chugs and grooves very nicely. A pumping kick, snappy percussion, and quirky - yet thoughtful - synths and stab lines show great potential for a unique, emerging style. Flip it over for the Banga Matt remix which is a bouncy Nu-NRG version which I found to be fairly uninteresting.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Eufex continues to impress me with "Feel It" on Vicious Circle. I haven't bought a Eufex track in about six months but this one is truly kick-ass and is more proof of Eufex's talent and creativity. It matches his signature percussion and hard-hitting funky-ass, head-bobbing basslines with a simple, catchy, trancier hoover line and it f***ing works. The Pants and Corset remix is a bit bouncier on the bottom than I'm used to hearing from them. But the top has that same trancey feel we've all heard one too many times and doesn't stray far from the original. Nothing to write home about.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Finally, an early Christmas present courtesy of Karim! As many of you have heard Do Not Bend 10 contains new remixes of two huge classics. First up is "Clean and Heavy", originally released on DP Recordings. Playing this track is akin to firing off a machine gun. The dirty bassline chugs and grinds and the best elements of the original remain. I take this over the original any day and one other benefit of this coming out on Do Not Bend is it sounds better than the DP pressing, if you get my meaning... On the flip is a new mix of one of my personal favourites, "Cheap Rent" (Do Not Bend 3). The driving bassline has been replaced with a punchier, heavier feel much like his"Here We Go" remix on Vicious Circle (see below). The progression of the song remains nearly identical with a Nu-NRG-style vocal sample thrown in and a key change when the breakdown hits. I personally prefer the original for it's driving, funky feel that made it so catchy in the first place. But the new version is still a stormer for sure.
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Buy)
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Morgan 10/1/01 |
The third release on Lotek Records is in my opinion the strongest one to date. Produced by Rubec and engineered by Mik Cree (DIP) how could you go wrong?! The track is called"Primitive" and features the original mix on the A side. This is a hoover based builder that is sure to create a frenzy on the dance floor. Flip it over to the B side for the"Wardance" remix which is much more harder and darker than the original. A seriously evil synth stab and a bassline to die for. Check it out as soon as possible!
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Buy)
Medikal Records releases another set of remixes for Contact Assist called "Pure Play". The A side features an epic trance track that might at first put your regular hard house or nu-nrg fan off. However, flip the track over for the B side remix by MissFire and you are in for a pleasant surprise. This is heavily loaded automatic weapon on the dancefloor. The off beat bassline does the damage while the distorted grungy synth and hoover clears whoever is left standing. Definitely check it out.
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Buy)
Dial Emma comes out of no where with three slamming tracks on this EP. The first is by Phil Taylor called "Riot Act". Featuring a heavy kickdrum with a BK style bassline, the track builds up into the break with a fierce hoover and the Samuel L Jackson sample from Pulp Ficiton. The B Side has two tracks by Jay Atomic & C.J. Reason. The first of which is an upbeat hard house tune, good bassline, good synth hook. While the second track is a bit darker, and uses the classic "Mr. Kirk, your son is dead" speech.
(MP3 /
Buy)
E-Traxx is back and better than ever. This time Sol Ray andDynamic Intervention throw down two wicked mixes of "The HardBeatz". The A side is a heavily loaded workout, plenty of dirty synths and a driving bassline. The break comes back with a fantastic audio sample, and the dance floor just erupts! The B side is a bit more relaxed as it slowly builds you up with synth stabs and more complex percussion. Try both sides, I am sure one of them will work well in your set.
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Buy)
Ingo's label Vacuum Records is quickly throwing at releases here towards the end of the year. Number three is once again by the Phat Controller and is called "Closer Attention". The A Side is Ingo's mix and it is exactly what you would expect from this label. A hard bouncey speed garage style bassline, mixed in with a hyped up synth line, some sirens and a four beat cut out before the kick hits after the break. The B Side by Stimulant DJ's is actually the one I find myself playing. Some wicked work on the synth and hoovers. Leave it to these guys to put the finishing tweaks on a tune to get the DJ's coming up to check the label.
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Buy)
HotWax never disappoints when it comes to the truly bouncey side of hard house. "Hard Pop Sausage" by Ben Kaye & Synergy is a solid tune. It features a simple yet uplifting off-beat bassline and enough sirens and vocal hoots to keep the dance floor moving. The real catch here is the hi-gate style synth lead, hard not to smile when you hear it. The flip side is a remix byIngo featuring his now classic break beat style break. Keep an eye out for the second disc with remixes by Justine Bourne and Ilogik.
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Buy)
Paul Glazby is one of my favorite producers at the moment... throwing out release after release. His own label, Vicious Circle features some of his best work and when you add in a remix by Karim you have a hit in my opinion with "Here We Go"! The A side features the original mix which is a bass heavy progressive monster. A hoover comes in to bring you out of the break and lead you in stomping mayhem. While the B side is the Karim remix, and my favorite of the two. It is almost a hybrid of Pandora and Begonia. Great vocal sample, wicked bassline... heavy hitting kick drum. What more could you ask for? Oh, that's right... a hard hitting tweaked out hoover that is sure to get the crowd cheering when it hits!
(MP3 /
Buy)
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Morgan 9/1/01 |
Funky Flirts is first up in August, with the release "Smoke This" on Forward Drive. Not exactly your run of the mill hard house track. This is more of an acid trance and uk hard house hybrid. And I like what comes from it. Dark rising acid line with an atmospheric hoover stab to boot. Do not expect a big snare drum roll build at the end of the break, instead expect a hard stomping in your face kick drum with a pulsating bass-line. This is a real treat, and something we hope to see more of in the future!
(MP3 /
Buy)
The latest release on Stimulant Records is called "Hyperspeed". Once again this track by Alumina features some classic Prodigy samples. This is a hard bouncey affair featuring a steady off-beat bassline and some 45 rpm style voices over the top. The Ingo Remix features the hyperactive synth line that you would expect him to lay down. Good for a quick reaction out of the crowd, but not necessarily if you want a hard dark stomping affair. Be sure to check out the clip none the less!
(MP3 /
Buy)
The first time I have heard of the Gum Label distributed by Tuned, featuring a pair of tracks by Box Ticker. This is a good solid production of hard house, very upbeat in a classic Trade style vocal riff over hard chunky beats. I am surprised I have not heard of these guys before. You will definitely want to check this out if you are not afraid of a few vocals and may want to mix in a little bit of a house vibe with your hard house. The A side features "Picks me Up" while the B side is the one that does it for me with "Keep Thinking"
(MP3 /
Buy)
Katalyst Trax is back at it again with a new release by Rumble (S. Finney). The A-side is called "Connect" and is definitely the harder darker of the two. It features some nice production work, with a few floating synths in the back ground that make it almost a trance track. While the B-Side is called "Up For It" and will probably be the one that sees more play time. A very uplifting synth hook in the break, with a full-on build into a stomping tune sure to raise some hands on the floor.
(MP3 /
Buy)
OD404 is easily one of our favorite production crews here at HardNRG.com and their release on Rehab does not disappoint. The A side features the original mix which is a hard hitting work out with the kind of sick rolling bassline that we have come to expect from these guys. Flip the record over for the Satellite Kids remix which is a bit more of a mind funk. A funky filtered break down, with some synth hits, a vocoded voice and a little bit of a hoover to get you back into the rhythm.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Once again Vacuum Records gives us a hard bouncing tune that could only be hard house. This time Samuel E Reeve throws down a track he calls"Punk Ass". It sounds like a sample from Chris Tucker, but I can not place the movie. The tune is sure to keep the dance floor moving. The flip side features a remix by Ingo which has a speed garage like bassline very similar to the first release on Vacuum. Check it out!
(MP3 /
Buy)
Hard Trax looks like it is back at it with a number of new releases. Fast Floor is easily one of my favorite new producers on the scene... consistently putting out hard chunky dark material. "Keep Rockin'" is no exception. The A side is a drum roll intensive banging tune. The synth lead is easily approachable, while the main vocal is often used, there is a new twist on it which makes it work. Flip the record over for a more off-beat bassline style floor filler.
(MP3 /
Buy)
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Kemical Kidd 5/11/01 |
Superfast Oz (of OD404) releases "Bad Ass Ghetto Pimp", his first ever solo release on newcomer label Kaboom. This is my favorite track to come out in 2001 so far, so take a listen to the sample and you will know why. You can definatly spot an american hard house influence in this track that still remains true to its UK hard house roots. The song brilliantly fuses funky sounds with darker bass leads and weaves them in and out over a pumping bassline.
(MP3 /
Buy)
OD404 uses the new moniker Satelite Kidz on their new release for Untidy Trax called "Time 4 House". Hoover fans keep an eye out for this track, because its the first OD404 track in over a year to have hoovers in it. Those of you who are tired of hoovers, dont worry because they are used very tastefully and are not the only main feature of the song. This tune starts off great with a bassline that is pounding and it quickly jumps into a tough and grindy hard house melody. The Satelite Kidz throw in just about everything in this tune, its got scratching, sirens and of course hoovers! This song kicks back out of the break in full force and continues through the end changins up, making this a very dynamic tune.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Frantic resident Phil Reynolds and Nick Sentience bring us "instruMENTAL" and "DMC" on Nukleuz Purple and I must say this is the best Purple release yet (and they all have been great). instruMENTAL features a very nice trancy melody (definatly Phil Reynolds influence) layered over a slamming Nick Sentience psycaldelic bassline. This is one of those crossover tunes that every DJ should have to make a smooth transition between genres, or going after or before a trance DJ. "DMC" however steals the show on this EP, as its one of my favorite songs of the year so far and many big UK DJ's have shown the same enthusiasm. This song has one hell of a bassline thats layered over with tough 303's mean stabs and a fantastic breakdown. Once the track hits the breakdown it slowly builds up with some good scratching sounds and a killer melody, and once the song kicks back in all the parts meld together to create a world of energy that will have every dancer on the floor going nuts.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Andy Farley and BK get down to business with 2 slammin tracks on Nukleuz Blue. The A-Side "Chunky But Funky" lives up to its name by being Funky yet remaining hard to earn its placement on Nukleuz Blue. The track is fairly Linear but its pulsating beats and funky b-line keep the flow, which make it a great track for long mixes. Flip the disc for another tasty bit entitled "Up Da Bass" which definatly delivers with its hard stabbing synth leads layered over a groovy track.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Mohawk 20 blasts in full force with a storming release from OD404 entitled "High Volume". You get two fantastic mixes of the song, the maximum mix and the minimum mix and both sides have rolling basslines and driving synth lines that make this track one not to be missed. I personally liked the minimum mix which has a great grindy OD404 flavor that makes it a hit on the dancefloor.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Lisa Pin-Up drops it hard and heavy with her new release on Rock Hard "Hard House Stompin'" which features a catchy and driving synth line that is garunteed to do the business. That combined with its massive build, this track will devestate any club or party. One of my favorite Rock Hards yet.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Nukleuz Blue licenses over "Another Jam" by Lisa Pin-Up, Elvira & Modelle from Rock Hard Recordings and BK does the rework called "BK's Riot Remix". BK throws you for a loop with his remix as it starts out tough and gritty with a big bassline and screaming synth stabs and in the break it takes a turn into much more of a trancer. The break has two melodies that are borrowed from an older trance tune, but they work well as the songs builds back up and kicks in. BK continues on the trancier production as he moves the bassline with the melody which is very common with trance.
(MP3 /
Buy)
BK & Alan Thompsen team up for the newest Nukleuz Red Release"Out There". It's the B-Side of this release that caught my attention (Do Tha Do), a great Hard Houser with a deep bassline, a funky riff and an excellent bass stab thats borrowed from Club Cutz 4 (Funk DJ).
(MP3 /
Buy)
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James Lawson 4/18/01 |
A Project - A Project (A Tracks)
A brand new label, a brand new artist name, and more of a masterpiece than a project, this track has found its way to the front of many a record box. The driving off beat bass line battles with acidic stabs & weird noises before a massive uplifting riff, that does the damage every time, explodes out of the break. A winner and make no mistake.
(MP3 /
Buy)
The Edison Factor - Repeat The Sequence (Freezing Point)
Following on from the success of Nervous Breakdown, The Edison Factor (o.k. I admit it Matt Williams & I) have quickly released their follow up. Repeat the Sequence comes in two guises. The original mix is another crossover track combining elements of both Hard House and Trance. It is, however, "Edison's 11am at Provocation remix" (which was recorded especially for infamous London after hours club) that does the damage. A memorable dirty riff is perfectly balanced with some very funky synth stabs to make the bum wiggle while the feet stomp. What an interesting thought!
(MP3 /
Buy)
2 Fierce - Down to the Bone (23/7)
Lisa Pin Up and her long time studio engineer, Elvira, have come up with the goods for the latest release from the 23/7. This fun & bouncy hard house tune has a rap sample running through it. For once, adds to the over all feel of the record rather than annoying the hell out of you! Its is, however, Elvira's stomping remix that steals the day. He has added funky bass and an infectious lead line. Banging and Uplifting, just how we like it.
BK - Hardbeat 17 (Nukleuz)
Convergence resident BK has delivered yet another track to add to the arsenal of floor fillers that he has released. The A-side, "So Wot", has all the elements of a club classic. The melodic lead line, riding over the top of a driving off beat bass line, reaches the parts that most tunes can't reach, and the clever use of voice samples makes the percussion as funky as funk. On the flip, there is a more underground track that doesn't work so well in the bedroom, but once on a big sound system it makes a whole lot of sense.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Justin Bourne - My House (Sundissencial)
Man of the moment Justin Bourne is releasing reams of quality tracks at the moment. "My house" follows in the same suit, and has something that is becoming more popular in hard house these days, a rolling bass line. Couple this will some massive hoover sounds and the superb, if some what dated and over used, "my house is your house and your house is mine sample", and you have a track that sticks in your head. This is bastard hard, just like Justin's DJ style!
Storm - Storm [BK and Nick Sentience remix] (Positiva)
The original mix wasn't much cop in the hard house stakes was it!, but we'll let them off, because the unofficial members of Storm (remember their remixes of time to burn and Storm Animal) have pulled out all the stops and produced another cracking remix. At first it appears that the original lead line has hardly been used at all. That is, of course, until you realise that the tough stuttery riff at the peak of this track does in fact use the same notes as the original. Its just that they're disguised by the beautifully aggressive sound that stamps out the rhythmic and euphoric hook. Watch those fists, they'll be-a-pumpin'.
Chris C - Freefall Remixes (Mohawk)
Freefall is a classic track that has stood the test of time for quite some time now and it has been crying out for a remix. Not to bring it up to date, as the original still sounds as fresh now as it ever did, but so that DJs that love this track (and there are many of them) have something slightly different to play. Step forward Andy Farley and, the man who crafted the original, Chris C. Andy's mix is a tough blend of a bass and drums that doesn't let up until the break where the unforgettable riff is delivered. Lovely. Chris C's mix takes on more of an Trance/NRG feel and fires on all cylinders, superb.
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Beaker 3/28/01 |
Sycoda's "Milk of Magnesia"on DP Recordings (DPR12) is a fairly minimal acid techno-style groover. Short breakdown, bells (probably sampled from something old and famous – I'm bad on references), sirens, and a subtle 303 progression make for some pretty decent filler (in a good way). The RR Fierce remix is a more upbeat track, dark, nu-nrg style complete with a scratch sample. Quality production all-round.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Karim has been putting out exceptionally good shit these days with the likes of "Begonia" on Kaktai, and "Ditch the Bitch" coming out on Tuff Trax in a few months. "Promise" (w/K-Live on Do Not Bend) isn't quite as crazy as either of the two but it does well enough. Stomping kick drums, heavy basslines, sick noises, and monkey hoovers. Buy it, cane it. "Cheap Tart" is fluffier and housier and pales in comparison.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Dutch hardhouse don, Tom Harding is next up with "I Love It" onSacred. It's a progressive groover with a trancey feel to it. This probably wouldn't go over too well with the harder crowds but if you're into the trancier end of things, definitely check this out. From start to finish it just gets better and better. Trance and acid techno-style remixes on the flip.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Rubec continues to impress with "Concentration" on Hard Trax It's pounding, pulsing hard trance, with a running one-note bassline that's reminiscent of Jon Doe's Toast work. The remix is bouncier with one of those abusive hoover samples that some go for and some don't. Definitely worth checking out.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Bulletproof's "Say Yeah" first caught my attention as a killer techno loop on the Tidy Trax web site a few months ago. They added A LOT of vocal sampling to it and your obligatory Tidy "woohoo"'s. However, on the dancefloor, the pumping bassline can still make up for everything. "Dance to the Rhythm" is remarkably unremarkable. Boring bouncy beats and bassline featuring the highly overused (and over-rated) slow down/speed up effect for the build. Ugh, it hurts; I can't even review what comes after it.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Si Fevah's "The Ultimate" is the tranciest Chunk release to date. An incredibly simple recipe works it's way into a beautiful tune. Everything from the melody line to the treatment of the vocal samples is really well placed. Total Trouse (as I like to call it). On the flip, "Rock This Place" is a bouncy clubhouse tune whose out-of-key bassline and overall silliness just don't do it for me.
(MP3 /
Buy)
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Kemical Kidd 3/16/01 |
Base Grafitti is back on Casa Dura (#8) with a follow up to his killer release on "LA Crunch". Dom Sweeden drops two original tracks that are both so good you wont know what side to play (I say just play both). "Tension Eliminator" has got a stompin' kickdrum and a really kickin bassline. And of course those cool tweaky Base Grafitti sounds we all love, which build up to a very grinding synth melody. In the break Dom releases a solid trance melody that works really well. The B-side has a low bassline and some clever vocal cuts, not to mention tough synth lines that make this tune a real quality hard house grinder. As always the production of this record is absolutely stellar and the tracks are a great listen.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Honey Pot has a new release by Justin Bourne and Dynamic Intervention that holds true to the label's unique style. The track is called "Kick Up the Volume" and it kicks off with really nice bassline, then brings in all kinds of old school hard house leads to spice up the track. However, I must give credit to the Knuckleheadz remix on the b side, which is my favorite of the two. Excellent and innovative percussion as I would expect from the Knuckleheadz, and their take on the main riff is packed with energy and sure to make the dancefloors move.
(MP3 /
Buy)
After a strong first release Recharge is back, this time with Justin Bourne unleashing his tune "Strapped In". This track can only be described as driving Hard NRG with its pounding bassline and mental hoovers. With so many solid releases, Justin Bourne is definitely an artist to keep your eyes on. On the flip, Karim takes a hard tune and makes it even harder! His remix starts off fairly mellow with some nice sounds bouncing back and forth, but in the breakdown Karim unleashes hoovers from another planet that will tear up any dancefloor.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Powerhouse label Nukleuz releases new remixes of what is possibly the most classic Nukleuz track ever: Cortina "Music is Moving". First up is Karim's remix of the tune and it is nothing short of mind blowing. I was very skeptical of this remix at first, but as soon as I heard the bassline sampled from Sourmash's classic "Pilgrimage to Paradise" I knew I was in for a treat. Karim throws in the original melody & reworks the vocal sample a bit all while throwing in other good samples to spice up the tune (including some cool percussion from Der Dritte Raum's "Trummelmachine"). But at the break is the big payoff with some wicked stabbing hoover action! Flip over the record for an interesting take on this song by Champion Burns... those familiar with this duo will recognize their dubby electro hard house sound that just screams style.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Marc Johnson celebrates his third Split Screen release in a row with "Universal Doubt". This is probably my favorite tune from Marc yet, and you get two tasty remixes to choose from. The A-side provides pounding hoovers in a constant flow of energy, but the b-side's "303 Pumpathon" mix does it for me. With well made Tinrib/Weirdo styler hoovers and a pumping acid line, you could not ask more from this mix.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Trade Full #3 features Paul King with 2 new original tracks. The A-side "Only Once" can only be described as uplifiting hardhouse, with a trance melody that I swear takes the first few notes from Paul Van Dyk's "For an Angel". However, it is arranged very uniquely and I would NOT call it a ripoff. My favorite part of the tune is the acid line that comes in at the end. I would recommend this tune for hard house DJ's that love trance. On the B-side Paul provides us with a tougher track much along the style of his previous tunes under the F1 moniker.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Cheeky tune alert!!! Simply titled "Cantina" this record features remixes by Pants & Corset plus Untidy Dubs of the Cantina Tune from Star Wars. First up is the Pants & Corset remix which starts to bring the first couple notes of the cantina melody over a driving bassline. In the break they unleash the full cantina melody, then layer it with some hoovers and slowly start building this track up to its crest, and it has a nice release out of the break. This is actually a good tune if you like the cantina melody. Paul Janes aka Untidy Dubs is often mentioned by other Hard House artists as highly inspirational, which is no surprise if your familiar with his excellent production. His take on the John Williams cantina song shows us exactly how versatile a producer he is. Crunchy untidy style percussion and a groovy bassline set the tone as he brings in the original melody in many creative ways. So as a Star Wars fan, I give these remixes a good review... but I am not sure I could bring myself to play it live.
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Morgan 3/13/01 |
Dynamic Intervention comes on strong with the latest release on DIP Records, entitled "Dynamite". This NRG monster is charged with mysterious synth stabs and a sinister hoover riff. Add in a bottom heavy bassline and you have a real dance floor hit. The flip side, "Coming On Strong" is a dark almost psychadelic stormer... slowly building into a big climax. Definitely something to get your hands on!
(MP3 /
Buy)
Trooper Tunes #3 by the Organ Donors is the latest in a the series of sample heavy hard house hitters. The A side is called "James Brown is Queer" and takes the riff directly from the old LA Style tune, "James Brown is Dead". A pretty heavy stomper, sure to bring back memories... it has a fierce kick drum and a steady bassline. Flip to the B side for "BombThrush" which samples the hook from the Trance Anthem: "In the Hall of the Mountain King".
(MP3 /
Buy)
Chris C is back at it again with the latest release on Mohawk Records #19. My favorite would have to be "Nomad". It has a serious lead synth that explodes with energy. Trademark heavy hitting bassline and funky samples keep people jumping throughout. On the back side you find Jody Osman's "A Little Something". Also a solid track, nice programming and an original synth.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Quickly becoming one of my favorite labels, Akid Trax is pumping out hit after hit. This latest Pranksterz mix, called "Forget It" is a heavy hitter for sure. Almost a subsonic bassline, with their characteristic banging kick drum. The synth line is a bit simple, but still effective. Flip it over for "Mashed Up"... which is more of a minimal affair, focusing on an almost overwhelming bassline. A nice break, with a brief hoover stab and it is back at you, harder than ever.
(MP3 /
Buy)
Next up we have Fat Larry's latest release on Pig Pen Records called "Lost Again". The original is a bit simplistic, a good bassline with a punchy kick drum... then the hoover stab comes in, loops heavily in the build-up and finally kicks back in with a drum roll. The more interesting mix is on the flip and is by Fallout Boy. This has a nice vocal sample, plus a bit heavier kick to it and then the break. The drum roll starts, and the synth sample starts to loop, faster and faster... but instead of releasing at the end, the kick finally hits and the sample does not let up! I will definitely be giving it a try on the dance floor.
(MP3/
Buy)
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