Rhythmism.comQ&A with Ellen Allien @ BlkMarket Membership - Sunday, September 5th
By rhythmism - Friday, Sep 3rd 2010, 03:54 PM
Ellen Allien is one of the most widely respected names in techno. Be it for her decade-plus heading BPitch Control, one of the most successful electronic labels in Berlin, her incredibly prolific production, remixing, and DJ work, her fashion line, or any of the other innumerable projects on which she has had a positive effect, her work is widely enjoyed by both laymen and connoisseurs for its ingenuity and inspiration. Ellen's sound helped define the minimal trend that took hold of techno during a large part of the past decade, sometimes assuming a more emotional feel, sometimes leaning towards electro-pop, but always of a high quality and roundly respected by many.
Read more "Q&A with Ellen Allien @ BlkMarket Membership - Sunday, September 5th"
0 commentsPortrait: Popof @ Electric Zoo 2010
By rhythmism - Tuesday, Aug 31st 2010, 07:16 PM
Popof's recent rise through the ranks of electronic music has been the type of rapid assent most DJs only dream of. After catching his big break in 2007, when Thomas Heckmann released the young artist's now classic single "Alcoolic" on his A.F.U. imprint, the French producer has sowed the seeds of his minimal techno/electro sound across Europe, and around the globe, provide a refreshing take on the two genres, both with his productions and DJ sets. Now he gets set for his U.S. debut!
Read more "Portrait: Popof @ Electric Zoo 2010"0 commentsElectric Zoo For Foodies
By rhythmism - Tuesday, Aug 31st 2010, 03:34 PM
New York is one of the finest cities in the world for both music lovers and foodies alike. And so the Electric Zoo Festival, held September 4th & 5th, 2010 on Randall's Island, is proud to announce an abundance of culinary options that exceed the expectations for food at festivals with a soundtrack propelled by the world's best electronic music artists. Food booth vendors from some of our favorite eateries will join select mobile food trucks – one of the hottest new food trends in the city –to provide a unique selection of 20 delectable and international, locally produced, vegan and organic choices. With a variety of tastes for every discerning palate, coupled with over 70 artists over 2 days - ranging from established worldwide favorites The Chemical Brothers, Moby, and Armin van Buuren, to exciting artists and acts like Axwell, Diplo, Flying Lotus, John Digweed, Major Lazer, Pretty Lights, Richie Hawtin and Steve Aoki - will make Electric Zoo the diverse, one-of-a-kind, open-air music festival experience and culinary adventure that New York City deserves. Join us to dance, eat and be merry!
Read more "Electric Zoo For Foodies"0 commentsQ&A With Sleepy & Boo @ Electric Zoo 2010
By rhythmism - Friday, Aug 27th 2010, 10:37 AM
Anyone who is familiar with dance music in New York City will automatically recognize the names Sleepy & Boo. As the driving force behind Basic NYC (named as New York Magazines "Best Dance Party" in 2009), the duo has been bringing top notch talent to various venues around the city for years now. On top of being excellent promoters they happen to be excellent DJs as well. Cielo, Pacha NYC, Water Taxi Beach, Love and, of course, their home base of Sullivan Room have all felt the diverse sounds of a Sleepy & Boo DJ set over the past six years. The thick drums, big basslines, hypnotic grooves and sci-fi synths that make up their sets are favorites of clubbers and respected by the world's top DJs. In 2010 alone, the duo played alongside the likes of Steve Lawler, Danny Howells, James Zabiela, Sander Kleinenberg, Paco Osuna, Lee Burridge and Cevin Fisher while bringing DJs like Mark Farina, Derrick Carter, Jeff Mills, Justin Martin and Carl Craig to New York. Last year Sleepy & Boo were on hand to open the inaugural Electric Zoo festival and their set became one of the events many highlights, truly setting the stage for what was to come over the rest of the weekend. This year they return to Electric Zoo, where they will be opening the Sunday School Grove on Saturday afternoon, September 4th. In anticipation of their set we caught up with the duo to talk about their experience at last year's festival, the thriving New York City dance music scene and whats coming up in the fall from Basic NYC.
Read more "Q&A With Sleepy & Boo @ Electric Zoo 2010"0 commentsQ&A With Paul Kalkbrenner @ Electric Zoo 2010
By rhythmism - Thursday, Aug 26th 2010, 04:14 PM
Berlin-based Paul Kalkbrenner’s first release, the Friedrichshain EP, was on Ellen Allien’s reputable techno label Bpitch Control in 1999. In 2004, he released his third album Self, which embodied his melodic narrative aesthetic and caught the ear of German director Hannes Stöhr. Together, they developed Berlin Calling, a fictional film about a touring DJ from Berlin’s techno scene who is admitted to a psychiatric clinic for a drug overdose right before the height of his success. The film, released in German theaters in 2008, stars Kalkbrenner himself, in an impressive acting debut (san training of any sort) and features his music. He talked to us about his natural acting abilities, “Berlin Calling” European tour, and plans during his stay in New York for Electric Zoo.
Read more "Q&A With Paul Kalkbrenner @ Electric Zoo 2010"0 commentsQ&A with Joris Voorn @ Electric Zoo 2010
By rhythmism - Wednesday, Aug 25th 2010, 04:57 PM
Joris Voorn's sound boasts a diversity and versatility that varies not only by genre, but by medium. His live performances have become internationally renowned for their abundant energy and intensity, his mixing skills admired for the subtly and intricacy of his layering. Joris works together not only tracks, but small loops and samples, to create a collage of techno and house - and all their varying sub-genres - that is sure to impress even the most seasoned electronic music connoisseur. His 2009 double mix CD Balance 014, and its 100 tracks of deep, thoughtful, cross-genre blends, is a healthy refresher for those interested.
Read more "Q&A with Joris Voorn @ Electric Zoo 2010"0 commentsPortrait: Chuckie @ Electric Zoo 2010
By rhythmism - Wednesday, Aug 25th 2010, 12:53 PM
Since his discovery in Amsterdam, international DJ and producer, Chuckie has quickly become a global phenomenon within the world of dance music and beyond. The Suriname native has played in almost every continent for events like MysteryLand, Electric Daisy Carnival and Dance Valley, developed his own massively popular “Dirty Dutch” club concept which boasts attendance upwards of 30K+ and masterminded killer tracks such as “Let The Bass Kick” and “Aftershock”, which could literally be heard coming out of nearly every speaker system in the world.
Read more "Portrait: Chuckie @ Electric Zoo 2010"0 commentsEnter District 36
By rhythmism - Wednesday, Aug 25th 2010, 12:33 PM
A new beacon for New York nightlife will be ignited this fall in the heart of Manhattan – DISTRICT 36. The brand new, custom-built nightclub injects originality and vitality into the scene and will once again put forth New York City at the center of global clubbing.
Read more "Enter District 36"8 commentsPortrait: Afrojack @ Electric Zoo 2010
By rhythmism - Wednesday, Aug 25th 2010, 10:29 AM
At the yound age of 18, Afrojack had his first top 100 hit in his native Netherlands with "Afrojack - In Your Face.” Now, he can rarely be seen outside of the studio. When he's not DJing around the world, he is producing hit tracks like “Math” and “Do My Dance,” gaining massive support from the likes of David Guetta, Josh Wink, Laidback Luke, Chuckie and Fedde Le Grand. Afrojack can bee seen on any given weekend at clubs and festivals around the world, such as Mystery Land, Tomorrowland (Belgium), Electric Daisy Carnival, Extrema Outdoor and Sensation, showing that his popularity is rising far beyond the borders of his homeland. Respected by fellow DJs and loved by clubbers for his dancefloor bombs and energetic performances, Afrojack is setting a new standard in the industry with a unique fusion of energetic house with electro and hip hop elements. He will be on hand on Saturday, September 4th at Electric Zoo, bringing his trademark sound to the Hilltop Arena.
Read more "Portrait: Afrojack @ Electric Zoo 2010"0 commentsQ&A with ATB @ Electric Zoo 2010
By rhythmism - Tuesday, Aug 24th 2010, 03:03 PM
In the relatively fickle world of dance music, where trends seem to change with the season, there are only a handful of artists that can boast over a decade's worth of success. And even with this success, there are even fewer who can lay this claim with the confidence that they have remained true to themselves, their music and their fans. Germany's trance king ATB is surely one of these artists. He has represented the true spirit of dance music through 8 studio albums, multiple mix CDs and a constant tour schedule while staying as close to his legions of adoring fans as humanly possible. His breakout single "9pm (Till I Come)" remains one of the seminal trance classics of all time, and yet he has not allowed himself to be pigeonheld into this specific recognizable style within the trance genre. His studio output balances ATB the artist with ATB the DJ. As his latest mix can attest, ATB the DJ is as worldy as ever and always ready for a great night out. Sunset Beach DJ Sessions sees him embark on a new artistic journey along the compilation trail. Part 1 showcases an exquisite selection of brand new club tracks, blended into a superlative ATB DJ set. Part 2, meanwhile, introduces ATB in beach lounge mode, serving up a fantastic mix of contemporary tunes and timeless classics.
Read more "Q&A with ATB @ Electric Zoo 2010"1 commentsPortrait: Fedde Le Grand @ Electric Zoo 2010
By rhythmism - Tuesday, Aug 24th 2010, 02:11 PM
Back in 2006 there was a little track which made its way through clubland called "Put Your Hand Up For Detroit" from a young Dutch producer named Fedde le Grand. The track exploded to #1 positions in multiple countries, as well as receiving "Best Underground Club Track" awards from IDMA and CWA, also providing Fedde with the IDMA for "Best Breakthrough DJ". This track was a not so humble introduction to the world of jet setting DJ status which has seen Fedde steadily grow to one of the premier DJs in the game. His debut album Output hit 60 countries last year and went on to include a slew of successful singles including the massive "Back & Forth". He has collaborated with superstars Madonna and Will.i.am and is set to go into the studio with the likes of Tiesto and Mark Knight, amongst others. He is also the head of the acclaimed Flamingo Recordings which boasts a slew of production material, as well as some of the best club nights around the world. Always keeping busy, Fedde has just released his latest club banger "Rockin High" featuring remixes from superstars David Guetta and Laidback Luke and is in the middle of another packed festival season bringing him to events around the globe. In September, his busy schedule brings him back to New York City where he will be making a Main Stage appearance at Electric Zoo on Sunday, September 5th.
Read more "Portrait: Fedde Le Grand @ Electric Zoo 2010"0 commentsQ&A With Above & Beyond : Anjunabeats Volume 8 @ Electric Zoo 2010
By rhythmism - Thursday, Aug 5th 2010, 07:43 PM
The story goes that Above & Beyond took its name from the poster of a motivational trainer by the same name as founding member Jono Grant. Ten years later, the moniker has proven to be prophetic: Above & Beyond is one of biggest names in trance, having received early support from Pete Tong, going on to play for 1 million people on a beach in Rio de Janeiro, and rising to the #4 spot in DJ Magazine’s Top 100 DJ Poll within four years. They recently released Anjunabeats Volume 8, the latest in their series of celebrated mix compilations on their own Anjunabeats label, which also houses producers like Super8 & Tab and Menno de Jong. We talked to Jono about the new album, what exactly makes trance music so popular, and their upcoming Electric Zoo gig on September 5. Also, why they’re giving fans a chance to win a piece of the moon.
Read more "Q&A With Above & Beyond : Anjunabeats Volume 8 @ Electric Zoo 2010"0 commentsQ&A With Reboot @ Electric Zoo 2010
By rhythmism - Thursday, Aug 5th 2010, 12:58 PM
Germany's leader of "the new sound of Frankfurt", Reboot was discovering electronic music at an age when most other boys were thinking about video games and girls. Drawing diverse influences from jazz to world music and classic house, Reboot has managed to develop a complex techno sound that he calls "poly-rhythmic architecture" but dancefloors around the world simply call dynamite. It is his ever present inquisitive side that pushes him to constantly experiment, feeling just as comfortable behind the decks as he does in the studio or performing live. His studio material has been released on labels like Supplemental Facts, Moon Harbour, Cecille, Renaissance and, of course, Cadenza while, as a DJ, he has played all of the world's temples of techno including Tokyo's Womb, London's Fabric and Frankfurt's Cocoon. Along with some of his Cadenza peers, he is a vital part of Luciano's live experiment Aether, whose futuristic combination of sound and visuals is a perfect representation of Cadenza’s philosophy of combining the sensory with cerebral, audio with emotional.
Read more "Q&A With Reboot @ Electric Zoo 2010"3 commentsQ&A With Marcel Dettmann @ The Bunker - Friday, August 6th
By rhythmism - Monday, Aug 2nd 2010, 12:41 PM
When any avid follower of true techno music mentions the name Marcel Dettmann there are a few words which immediately spring to mind. Rough, rugged, and raw are some which make up the famed Berghain residents musical attributes, while adventurous, intelligent and improvisational can be used to describe his philosophy. His sets are known to build in tension and momentum using a slew of hi hats, kick drums, and basslines, both grounded in tradition, as well as consciously working outside the comfortable techno box. Whether it is any number of global headlining performances, underground appearances or multi hour Berghain marathons, listeners are sure to hear a slew of styles and influences when Marcel mans the booth. From British bass music to Chicago's jacking house sound, from classic Detroit to modern Berlin, Marcel is able to generate mood and connections with sounds that defy age and class. In the past few years, Marcel has also come into his own as a producer and remixer. Remixing the likes of Ellen Allien, Junior Boys, Loco Dice, and Modeselektor, as well as releasing original material on Berghains Ostgut Ton and his own MDR labels. In the studio as well as behind the decks he incorporates the same adventurous philosophy which has made him one of the most respected and diverse figures in the scene.
Read more "Q&A With Marcel Dettmann @ The Bunker - Friday, August 6th"2 commentsElectric Zoo Final Lineup Released, Artists & Stages By Day
By rhythmism - Wednesday, Jul 7th 2010, 03:58 PM
Now that the summer is officially in full swing, the 2010 edition of Electric Zoo is right around the corner and ready to provide the Big Apple with another dose of musical mayhem. The 26 acres of lush greenery and stunning water views of Randall’s Island Park provide the backdrop for New York’s premier destination for electronic music over Labor Day weekend, September 4th & 5th, 2010. With each passing day, not only does anticipation grow but the already massive collection of DJs, producers, and live acts scheduled to perform gets bigger, better and more diverse.
Read more "Electric Zoo Final Lineup Released, Artists & Stages By Day"2 commentsQ&A With Markus Schulz | North American Tour Dates + Electric Zoo 2010
By rhythmism - Thursday, Jul 1st 2010, 12:09 PM
The term "Globetrotting DJ" is thrown around quite a bit in this modern era of dance music, but in the case of Markus Schulz there is truly no better term which can describe him. The Berlin and Miami resident has seen a steady climb in popularity over the past few years and now the sky seems to be the limit for this purveyor of booming basslines and uplifting melodies. Comfortably placed at #8 on DJ Mag's Top 100 DJ Poll, Markus Schulz brings his unique interpretation of trance music to clubs, festivals, radios and living rooms around the world. With weeks that can see him playing as many as 5 or 6 gigs, one can find him anywhere from the Armada residency at Ibiza's Amnesia to poolside in Las Vegas or at massives like Global Gathering or Nature One. When he is not doing his thing behind the decks he is either running the seminal trance label Coldharbour Recordings or broadcasting his Global DJ Broadcast on over 20 radio stations around the world and on the internet. In June Markus released his third artist album entitled Do You Dream?. Already with three hit singles to its credit ("Dark Heart Waiting", "The Lost World" and its title track) the album is the perfect follow up to his previous offerings Progression and Without You Near. Now, as Markus is in full summer swing, we talk to him about the album, the 100th release on his Coldharbour label and his return to the decks of New York's Electric Zoo festival over Labor Day weekend, September 4 & 5.
Read more "Q&A With Markus Schulz | North American Tour Dates + Electric Zoo 2010"0 commentsQ&A With James Holden @ Cielo - Thursday, July 8th
By rhythmism - Tuesday, Jun 29th 2010, 03:07 PM
The man known as the British techno sorcerer or the psychedelic shamen, James Holden has been quite the busy man as of late. With a brand new mix for the esteemed DJ-KiCKS series, a globe trotting tour to support, and a new single "Triangle Folds" four years in the making, Holden is poised to no longer be considered the mysterious youngster who broke into the electronic music scene a decade ago. Though he may not be a household name in the United States just yet, James' influence can be heard throughout the spectrum of dance music. Whether it is from his label Border Community, which boasts a roster or artists including Fairmont, Mistress Barbara and Nathan Fake, his mixes for Balance and At The Controls, or his numerous productions and remixes, James may best be known for breaking down the barriers for the world's bedroom DJs and Producers when, armed with only his home computer, he exploded onto the scene with the trance hit "Horizons". We managed to catch up with James as he took time from his busy schedule to talk about his Thursday, July 8th date at Cielo, his experience at last year's Electric Zoo festival, and why DJ-KiCKS is the only relevant DJ Mix CD series.
Read more "Q&A With James Holden @ Cielo - Thursday, July 8th"0 commentsQ&A With Laidback Luke @ Pacha NYC - July 3rd | Electric Zoo 2010
By rhythmism - Thursday, Jun 24th 2010, 03:01 PM
Like his name suggests, Laidback Luke is an easygoing guy: he prefers the more emotionally realistic Peter Parker to Clark Kent, keeps in touch with emerging DJs and producers via web forum, and created his own international costume party, called Super You&Me, because “parties were getting way too serious.” Luke’s career blew up last year, with his Swedish House Mafia collaboration, “Leave The World Behind,” winning the IDMA award for Best House Track, and sets at Ibiza megaparties like David Guetta’s Fuck Me I’m Famous and Roger Sachez’ Release Yourself. Not to mention his previous work with American scene stars like A-Trak, Diplo and Steve Aoki, and remixes of MSTRKRFT, Tiesto and Jay-Z. We talked to him about his upcoming Super You&Me party at Pacha NYC on July 3rd, Electric Zoo on September 4 & 5, and dreams of becoming a great turntablist.
Read more "Q&A With Laidback Luke @ Pacha NYC - July 3rd | Electric Zoo 2010"1 commentsElectric Zoo New Lineup Additions, Electric Zoo Radio To Launch On Sirius XM
By rhythmism - Thursday, Jun 17th 2010, 10:16 AM
The anticipation for the 2010 edition of Electric Zoo continues to build with a lineup stacked full of electronic music heavyweights ready to descend on New York’s Randall’s Island Park this Labor Day weekend on September 4 & 5, 2010. With a lineup that features headlining sets from The Chemical Brothers and Armin van Buuren and a who’s who of the world’s top DJs and electronic music artists, Electric Zoo is proud to announce the latest group of artists set to play New York’s biggest electronic music festival. On Saturday, electronic hip-hop fusion outfit Pretty Lights provides a raucous headlining live performance. Other additions include UK's veritable Radio 1 tastemaker Pete Tong, the future of Swedish house, rising star Avicii, UK's certified electro hitmaker Fake Blood, two of France's prized dance exports Joachim Garraud and electro minimalist Popof, and Germany’s techno maestro Reboot. Stay tuned for the final announcement of acts to be added to this electric lineup as we count down the days!
Read more "Electric Zoo New Lineup Additions, Electric Zoo Radio To Launch On Sirius XM"0 commentsQ&A With The Caretaker | The Bunker - Friday, June 11, 2010
By seze_ - Thursday, Jun 10th 2010, 10:12 AM
British ambient sampler James Leyland Kirby (aka The Caretaker) uses old ballroom 78-rpm records from the ‘20s and ’30s, with all their ambience and static, to bring the ghosts of a past era back to life. The resulting effect is mesmerizing, and has led critics internationally to refer to Kirby’s work as one of the leading lights of the hauntology movement that is currently taking ambient music into some of its most captivating terrain.
Read more "Q&A With The Caretaker | The Bunker - Friday, June 11, 2010"1 commentsLive From Detroit: Movement 2010
By PJay - Saturday, May 29th 2010, 06:08 PM
Movement Torino Stage:
Read more "Live From Detroit: Movement 2010"4 commentsQ&A With Michael Mayer @ Movement 2010 | BKLYN Yard - Sunday, May 30
By rhythmism - Thursday, May 27th 2010, 01:35 PM
As a DJ, producer and remixer, Michael Mayer remains one of Germany's core celebrities in dance music. It's no secret that he spends his weekends traveling around the globe. It's likely throughout his career he's played in front of millions. Then, as a co-owner of Kompakt, he spends his weekdays deciding what will be released on the label and working with the label's artists and overseeing Kompakt's distribution wing - the home of over 50 record labels. Amazingly enough, he manages to sneak into the studio on occasion to produce his own music and remix the likes of Pet Shop Boys, Depeche Mode, Foals and Rufus Wainwright. It's safe to say he loves being challenged and regardless of the pressure is never putting less than 100% of his heart and soul into everything he does. Michale Mayer will be coming stateside for two dates over Memorial Day weekend. First, the Sundays Best crew brings him to BKLYN Yard on Sunday, May 30 then, the next day he will be performing on the Red Bull Music Academy stage at Movement 2010 in Detroit's Hart Plaza.
Read more "Q&A With Michael Mayer @ Movement 2010 | BKLYN Yard - Sunday, May 30"0 commentsPortrait: Jon Hopkins @ Mutek 2010 | Electric Zoo
By rhythmism - Thursday, May 27th 2010, 10:31 AM
Opulent, cinematic, and seductively moody, the music of London’s Jon Hopkins combines the ethereal scales of Brian Eno’s ambient adventures with dark, cushioned rhythms reminiscent of Boards of Canada. A composer and pianist who taught himself the tricks of the contemporary home studio, he released his first album, Opalescent, in 2001, and has since released two more, the latest being 2008’s Insides. That album elevated Hopkins’ status among the electronic cognoscenti, eventually earning him a place on major indie label Domino Records. A rarity among modern electronic composers, Hopkins has an uncanny ability to locate and fully develop the emotional core of his composition, lending his work a transcendental and often moving feel. Such is the pull of Hopkins’ music that Coldplay used his track “Light Through the Veins” to bookend their 2008 album Viva La Vida, and the British composer went on to spend six months with the band on the road. Jon Hopkins will be playing at Mutek 2010 in Montreal and Electric Zoo on New York's Randalls Island Park.
Read more "Portrait: Jon Hopkins @ Mutek 2010 | Electric Zoo"0 commentsQ&A with The Juan MacLean: Fixed @ Public Assembly - Saturday, June 5
By rhythmism - Wednesday, May 26th 2010, 03:47 PM
Since the turn of the 21st century, DFA club music maestro Juan MacLean has been laying groundwork for his musical domination. First, there were killer singles, from “By The Time I Get to Venus” in 2002, to the international mega hit & critical year-end favorite “Happy House” as well as the “The Simple Life”. There were two full-length albums (Less Than Human and The Future Will Come); remixes for colleagues like Air, Chicken Lips, Daft Punk, David Gahan, Matthew Dear; international tours with Cut Copy and Shocking Pinks; and DJ gigs from Telluride to Tel Aviv. Now he's created one of the year's best mix CDs—and not just a proper party mix, which it certainly is, but even what you might call an "important" mix, a timely lesson in the enduring spirit of house music. That's right: house music. Pumping, sweaty house music at its purest, from the churning pianos to the chopped-up vocals.
Read more "Q&A with The Juan MacLean: Fixed @ Public Assembly - Saturday, June 5"0 commentsQ&A With Claude VonStroke @ Movement 2010 | Electric Zoo
By rhythmism - Wednesday, May 26th 2010, 02:36 PM
Raised in the suburbs of Detroit before relocating to San Francisco, Claude VonStroke always had a knack for music. Since his first original production "Deep Throat", his studio work has always been met with worldwide acclaim. As a DJ, Claude is known simply for having fun. He does not scowl or frown while providing worldwide audiences with his distinct interpretation of techno and house. In 2005, he formed the label dirtybird which is now celebrating its 5th anniversary with a 3CD release of the labels favorites. The acclaimed label has released some 40 EP's. Claude himself has over 25 releases, as well as two artist albums and an edition in the fabric mix series. He is also the boss of the more euro flavored techno and house imprint Mothership, which donates a large percentage of its profits to the bettering of the Detroit school system. Claude will be quite visible throughout the summer months with a headlining set on the Beatport stage at Movement 2010 in Detroit's Hart Plaza, as well as a stop at New York's Electric Zoo on Randalls Island Park over Labor Day weekend.
Read more "Q&A With Claude VonStroke @ Movement 2010 | Electric Zoo"0 commentsQ&A with Ikonika : Dark Disco @ Element - May 30th | Mutek 2010
By rhythmism - Wednesday, May 26th 2010, 11:03 AM
One of the first ladies of dubstep, Ikonika emerged on Kode9’s famed Hyperdub label in 2008, just as the imprint known for putting Burial on the map was taking a drastic left turn away from dubstep proper and into funkier, synthier offshoots. Alongside producers like Zomby, Joker, Darkstar and others, Ikonika is part of the second generation of dubsteppers, acts not as concerned with the alienated, atmospheric embalm of the genre’s dark pedigree. Instead, Ikonika’s bass wonkiness and Casio tones flirt with the lightness of UK garage and with elements of electro. This year, the West London producer arrives in North America with exclusive dates at New York's Element for Dark Disco, a Mean Red production on Sunday, May 30 and at Montreal's MUTEK 2010 as a DJ, in support of her debut album, Contact, Love, Want, Have.
Read more "Q&A with Ikonika : Dark Disco @ Element - May 30th | Mutek 2010"0 commentsQ&A With Seth Troxler, Crazy Larry and Lauren Lane @ Cielo - Thursday, May 27th
By lauren lane - Tuesday, May 25th 2010, 01:49 PM
We go beyond the music and into the madness that makes it up with an unconventional three-way Q&A between Seth Troxler, Crazy Larry, and Lauren Lane. Take a peek into the minds of the three eclectic DJ’s before their anticipated gig as Dance.Here.Now brings them to Cielo on Thursday, May 27th. Seth Troxler needs no introduction as he was named # 8 on Resident Advisor’s Top 100 DJ Poll. His latest compilation, Boogybytes Vol. 5 on BPitch Control has been gaining some of the year’s best reviews. Time to get Ill’s Crazy Larry is a staple on the underground scene of New York. His work as a DJ, producer, and promoter has made the Denver transplant one of the most accomplished and forward thinking figures in New York City and beyond. The multi talented Lauren Lane has been involved with dance music almost her whole life. From her informative journalism to eclectic DJ sets, Lauren truly embodies what dance music is all about.
Read more "Q&A With Seth Troxler, Crazy Larry and Lauren Lane @ Cielo - Thursday, May 27th"0 commentsPortrait: Overcast Sound @ Mutek 2010
By rhythmism - Tuesday, May 25th 2010, 12:10 PM
Since 2005, Michael Pettit and Jamie Drouin have been casting an atmospheric haze of deep, minimal techno over their hometown of Victoria, British Columbia. As Overcast Sound, fragments of field recordings mingle with cinematic sweeps and a dub undertow. Pettit combines his background in techno with Drouin’s sound-art practice, creating a signature that recalls the dub-techno excursions found on the Echochord label. Drouin is no stranger to MUTEK, having contributed to a project by audio-visual duo Skoltz_Kolgen, as well as the Placard headphone extravaganza from 2007. Like his other sound works, there’s an emphasis on the way audio can shift senses of place, space and time. The duo’s improvised performances and re-imaginings of their compositions are accentuated with an evocative visual presentation.
Read more "Portrait: Overcast Sound @ Mutek 2010"0 commentsPortrait: Nicolas Jaar @ Mutek 2010
By rhythmism - Tuesday, May 25th 2010, 10:40 AM
Born in New York, Nicolas Jaar was raised in Santiago before returning to America where he began his production life at the very tender age of 14. Debuting his tracks at age 17, Jaar – who is now 20 – continues to cause a sensation with his cascading piano lines, folk leaning melodies, cool vocals and deep house undertow. Turned on by equal parts afro-beat, Satie and Villalobos, Jaar’s tracks have appeared on Wolf + Lamb, Circus Company and his own label, Clown and Sunset. His latest releases include the EPs, A Time For Us and Russian Dolls.
Read more "Portrait: Nicolas Jaar @ Mutek 2010"0 commentsPortrait: Matmos @ Mutek 2010
By rhythmism - Monday, May 24th 2010, 02:05 PM
The Baltimore-based duo of Drew Daniel and Martin Schmidt, who have been recording together as Matmos since 1997, are electronic collage artists with a unique sense of humor and artistry. Their recording techniques may hearken back to the musique concrète of Steve Reich and Luc Ferrari, but their playfulness of rhythm and selections of field recordings inject a dose of contemporary real-world dynamism into their music. Conceptualists on par with sample guru Matthew Herbert, Matmos have spent eight albums crafting pop abstractions from sources as unlikely as clipped hair and body fat left over from plastic surgery. Arguably breaking through at the start of the decade with their memorable MUTEK 2001 performance, the duo return to festival stages after a decade’s absence to showcase just how far they’ve come since then. In between, they have toured extensively with Bjork – a longtime fan of the group – and even produced portions of her albums Vespertine and Medúlla, both of which bear significant signs of the duo’s conceptual influence. Always ones to flip the script, their latest album, 2008’s Supreme Balloon, abandons microphones and recorded music altogether and opts for purely electronic tones as its source material.
Read more "Portrait: Matmos @ Mutek 2010"0 comments