Quincy Weigert-Ad Astra [Nethertape Records]

 

One of dance music's most exciting attributes is the fact that it is never stagnant. Constantly reinventing itself with new ideas. The appearance of new and promising artists who give it their all, telling their tale through the music medium is another glorious thing we love about the genre. One of these artists is an up and coming producer that goes by the name of Quincy Weigert. This talented artist has been steadily riding the wave of success over the years, as he has been frequently supported by some of the scene's finest including "Paul Oakenfold", "Markus Schulz", "Cosmic Gate", "Ferry Corsten" and many more. His new release is out now on all major dance music portals via "Nethertape Records" and it is a riveting one at that. 

 "Ad Astra" kicks things off like a locomotive in full force. Growling basslines, rhythmical percussion and a wondrous otherworldly theme is eloquently been laid out by the artist. Female vocal wails add an extra bit of flair to the emotional charged atmosphere that begins to form all around. A medley of melancholic melodies sweeps in as tiny droplets of luscious melodies and overpowering synths give the joyous listener the tendency and feeling that time is rapidly running out, much like the sand in an hourglass, precious and valuable like life itself.

A powerful, adventurous tune that will easily gain a place in the audience's hearts and the DJ's digital crates! Majestic and euphoric!

Released: 15/1/22

Label: Nethertape Records

https://www.beatport.com/release/ad-astra/3614595 

Kalbee & Raimer-Reaching [Coldharbour Black]

 

  

We have had quite a number of artist duos over the long and prosperous years of clubland. Some rose to greatness but later went on their separate ways. Others followed the road ahead, despite the many hurdles and obstacles in their path. The fact remains though that quite often, mathematically speaking, two minds can be better than one.They can easily exchange ideas back and forth, while at the same time motivate each other thus keeping their musical vibe alive and well. One of these rather new founded duos are American artists "Kalbee & Raimer". These two musical prodigies have left a rather successful year behind them and what better way to demonstrate that than with a new offering to the dance music cosmos. These two have gained loads of attention from well known dance music icon "Markus Schulz", whose gift for discovering and nurturing talented artists is uncanny. He invited them to share their sound with the world more than often on his label "Coldharbour Recordings". Their new release finds them on the harbour once more, the "Coldharbour Black" imprint to be exact. Fitting place for these two as their single "Reaching" has just the right stuff to be part of the darker, techier, more sinister part of the label.

 Through the thick mist that forms from the very beginning of the track, pounding basslines and distant horns can be heard. Eerie, mysterious melodies emerge, pairing up marvelously with the distinct darkness of the main bassline, guiding us all along a treacherous journey through the deepest, unexplored chasms of the Earth. Seeing is usually the first sense but in this case, our ears play the leading role as our definite guides throughout the ongoing darkness that surrounds us all. Alert, vigilant, with an ever rising sense of adventure brooding in the very core of our soul, we charge on with faith as our protector. Shades of grey loom in from every angle while faint noises can be heard from afar. The hazy, mesmerizing melodies in the midst of the tune give us a moment of temporary clarity, right before the subterranean leads take off, with a kind of hidden wrath boiling from within. 

A tune of exceptional purpose. Dark, mysterious and hauntingly beautiful. It will definitely sit well with those craving the more furious, edgy and underground side of dance music. Well done guys!

Released: 19/11/2021

Label: Coldharbour Black

https://www.beatport.com/release/reaching/3569308 

HORIZONS-Night On Fraser Island [Landscapes Music]

 

In the final month of last year, one of dance music's upcoming and most promising labels "Landscapes Music" ushered in a final release to bid farewell to a most fruitful year music wise. This release was created by none other than the founder and owner of the label himself, Shyamol Maracci. Best known under his artist name "HORIZONS", he is an artist known for showcasing beautiful scenery and landscapes for that matter, throughout his aural productions, the artist name he chose for himself could not be more fitting. Surely one familiar with his work can recognize his expertise in all of his eclectic releases. His latest musical outing is on home label "Landscapes Music" and is dubbed "Night On Fraser Island" part of the "Australia EP".

 An air of evident mystery can be found encircling this majestic offering, as darker undertones solidify the tune's stunning presence. Ethereal melodies ascend with the highest grace from the tune's grave foundations. A perfect harmony of layers in which every element complements its siblings accordingly, thus forming a window through the sound barriers, a glimpse into an isle of infinite beauty. "Fraser Island" appears to be a truly magical place wrought with joy, heart stopping scenery and breathtaking views. The splendor of nature and the awe factor are ever so present here, demonstrated exquisitely through the artist's musical touch.

 Another beauty of a tune crafted from the "Landscapes Music's" main man. Great way to send off the year and usher in the new one full of promise and hope within one's heart!

Released: 6/12/2021

Label: Landscapes Music

https://www.beatport.com/release/australia/3574059 

 

Hit The Bass & Taygeto-Daidalos [AVA Recordings]

 

One of the producers on the rise in the European dance music scene is an artist that goes by the explosive name "Hit The Bass". Dimitris from Greece has been pouring all of his heart and soul into the vast array of his very own productions and collaborations with fellow dance music artists such as "Danny Cullen", "Taygeto", "Gid Sedgwick" and many more. The populous and artists alike have definitely been responding positively to his talent of forging those eclectic trance beats. He can proudly boast on having releases on esteemed labels such as "Reaching Altitude", "AVA Recordings" and "Armada Music" among others. Aside from feverishly assembling his own creations in the studio he also coaches and trains the next generation of music producers in his very own school "Grey Studios". One of his newest creations finds him teaming up with Italian artist "Taygeto" once more as they make their way together towards familiar turf: "AVA Recordings". "Daidalos" is most definitely inspired by the well known Greek myth of "Icarus", the youth that tried to defy his mortal boundaries and fly as high as the sun. In said myth "Daidalos" was the inventor/engineer if you will of flight itself and "Icarus's" beloved father.

Grimy basslines paired up with ecstatic rhythms lead the way as intriguing melodies surface through the laid atmosphere at hand. Female chopped vox are included bringing forth an ethereal wind of change to the epic atmosphere that begins to unfold. An air of positivity, glorious adventure and infinite potential emerges while the listener is pleasantly flooded with feel good vibes, courtesy of the higher than air leads that take instant charge. A euphoric tune of epic proportions that perfectly encapsulates the beloved myth, clearly stating that the human spirit can work wonders when flooded with ingenuity in the hardest of times, much like our heroes in their adventurous flight from their captors. A thrilling dance music offering by these super talents that will surely remain in your playlists for months on end!

Released: 10/9/2021

Label: AVA Recordings

https://www.beatport.com/release/daidalos/3485698 

Anske-Suncatcher [Coldharbour Recordings]

 

One of Lithuania's leading dance music icons is without any doubt Andrej Anskinas, better known to the dance music populous as "Anske". This talented music producer and DJ has realized many of his dreams already by performing at some of the world's biggest events such as "Luminosity" in the Netherlands. A creator of catchy yet intricate tunes with lots of emotional depth "Anske", continues on in full force constantly on the move. If you are familiar with tunes such as "Space Howl", "Epika", "Xplorer" and "Blue Lagoon" you definitely know the vast potential of this artist. His latest tune brings him to "Coldharbour Recordings" shores once more with the incredible "Suncatcher". It was such a hit that "Markus Schulz" included it in the latest edition of the illustrious DJ mix compilation "In Search Of Sunrise", bestowing this grand honor on "Anske" for the third time!

 The listener is instantly captivated from the very first moments of play as they are surrounded by tough, edgy basslines, rhythmical high strung percussion and upbeat harmonies. When we reach the break in the track we are gradually overcome by a feeling of wonder, awe and splendor. Uncanny melodies emerge, casting an aura of positivity all around as visions of tropical landscapes, hidden waterfalls and lush vegetation capture the heart of our very imagination. When the leads kick in pairing up quite eloquently with the rest of the key elements, our hearts shore with joy much like the fiery red sun rising in the distance as the dawn of a promising new day approaches. 

Magical tuneage once more by "Anske", who lives up to his sheer potential and will definitely see loads of love from the fans and his peers alike for this one!

Released: 1/10.2021

Label: Coldharbour Recordings

https://www.beatport.com/release/suncatcher/3530169 

  

Exclusive Interview with Rinaly!

One of the fastest emerging talents in the orient comes to us from the land of the rising sun. A Japanese female DJ/Producer known to her peers and the wide world of dance music as "Rinaly", has been making her very own ripples in the scene which have grown larger with the passing of time. Responsible for energizing the crowd with her dynamic yet euphoric DJ sets at some of Japan's finest venues as well as honing her skills on her unique flavored productions. Each track she has worked on has that fine blend of uplifting and pure melodic trance qualities which she has become known for. 

Slowly yet steadily she has gradually won over the hearts of many of the trance faithful around the globe! An artist who surely lives for her art, "Rinaly" has not missed an opportunity to entertain her long legion of fans on the "Twitch" platform during the pandemic and long after, giving the audience her pure dedication and wild assortment of gripping tunes. Definite highlights in her career include getting a mass amount of  support on "A State Of Trance" and world premiers by none other than Dutch maestro "Armin Van Buuren" himself as well being selected to mix the renowned DJ Mix compilation "Techno Club" alongside founder and DJ "Talla2xlc". 

It is with great pleasure that I get to welcome "Rinaly" aboard "MusicTalk15" for this exclusive interview! An honor and privilege and I in turn thank her most graciously for her time!

 

Question 1:

What was the deciding factor that got you into dance music? Were you interested in music and its production from a tender age?

A: I was hearing trance as ‘love-filled’ music, I've been besotted with its emotional depth and textured sound since I first discovered it aged 20 in a Japanese nightclub.

When I was a teenager, I played bass in a band, and I learned composition from the age of 14.

Question 2:

What would you say was your biggest break in the scene after being involved with dance music for a good amount of years?

A: "Ronski Speed & Rinaly - Horoscope", released in 2016, got "ASOT" support for the first time and I started to feel confident in the sound I made. After that, I started touring abroad and became busy.

Question 3:

Could you please share with us the story of how you became involved with “AVA Recordings” and in time became a part of the “AVA family” of artists?

A: My first release on AVA was "Rinaly - Wave of Affection" released in 2017, which got # 1 on the Beatport Trance Chart.

In 2018, I organized "AVA Night Tokyo" and deepened my ties with the AVA team. I’m honored to be part of them because they are very kind, warm and always supportive.

Question 4:

When working on dance music, what do you enjoy? Creating originals where you play the leading role in all ideas and creativity or do you perhaps prefer collaborations with fellow artists?

A: I enjoy expressing my emotions with sound. Also, I have some collaboration projects because I learn a lot from collaborations and it is inspiring.

Question 5:

As a producer what software lies in your studio? Which is your “daw” of choice and the virtual instruments that frequent your productions?

A: I use "Logic Pro X" as my main DAW, but occasionally I also use "Studio One". "Spire",

"SERUM" and "Sylenth1" are used a lot in my productions.

Question 6:

A recent highlight in your career is of course having the honor to mix the second disc of the prestigious “Techno Club” series by none other than “Talla 2XLC”. How did all that come to be and could you please share some insight into your ideas and music you decided to showcase within?

A: Talla and I are working hard on streaming on Twitch and it makes us get along.

Talla surprised us by announcing during the stream that he chose me for "Technoclub vol.62". I was so honored to lose my word!

Question 7:

Being from Japan you have certainly witnessed a whole different clubbing experience. What was your favorite club to play at there? What would you say the difference is between clubbing in Asia in accordance to Europe and their club culture?

A: In my experience, melodic and vocal tracks are preferred in Japan, and more danceable and driving tracks are preferred in Europe. But it really depends on the event and crowd.

Question 8:

Which artist or artists were your early influences or inspiration when you first began to produce your own music? Which artists inspire you today in 2021?

A: When I first started making Trance, I was influenced by "Andy Moor", "Omnia", "Ben Gold" and others. Today I'm experimenting with Tech Trance artists like "Alex Di Stefano" and "Paul Denton" etc. to create my own unique sounds.

Question 9:

What five songs are your favorites of the moment and you would love to play out when returning to your clubland and regular DJ performances?

A: Other than my own tracks:

#1 David Forbes, Paul Denton - Out Of Order

#2 Somna & Jennifer Rene - Stars Collide (XiJaro & Pitch Remix)

#3 Sean Tyas, Darren Porter - The Potion (Metta & Glyde Extended Remix)

#4 Steve Dekay, Emanuele Congeddu - Origami

#5 Everlight - Obelisk feat. Emma Chat

 

Question 10:

During lock down you have been a steady force of sanity and inspiration for the clubbers who lost their favorite pastime. You were there week in week out, entertaining us all and achieving new heights while doing so. Pure dedication and passion which will not go unnoticed! How did you enjoy your Twitch sets and did they in turn fuel you with well needed positive vibes to restart your life once all settles?

A: I've always focused on playing fresh and perfect sets, but perfectionism has plagued me so I decided not to overwork in the last few months and it's easier and much more enjoyable than before. I learned how to deal with myself during lockdown. I’m so proud to have built a warm community that always encourages me. 

Question 11:

Do you enjoy traveling and discovering new lands and cultures? If so what are your dream destinations and for what reason?

A: Yes I do. I have longed for Scandinavia for a long time. I decided to live in Sweden and I am mentally much better than before. I was inspired by different cultures and beautiful nature.

Question 12: What are your plans for the future? Any upcoming events you wish to share with us or perhaps other exciting music related news?

A: I have both Trance and Techno releases in the coming months.

The closest release is "Rinaly - In The Predawn Darkness" on "FSOE Clandestine" which was released on the 29th of October.

Question 13: Being an avid producer for quite a spell is there any chance we may see a “Rinaly” artist album in the near future?

A: I cannot say for sure but, I definitely want to make an album in the future ;)

 

 

 

Ali Wilson-Tabula Rasa (Album Review)

Ali Wilson over the years has rapidly become a household name in the dance music world. He has built for himself a solid artillery of releases on labels such as "In Charge", "Freezing Point", "Nukleuz" and his very own label "Tekelec Recordings" among others. This musical visionary from the UK certainly has music coursing through his veins and has not sat still even for a minute. Dedicated to his craft, he has unleashed two phenomenal artist albums so far. His third artist album saw inception during a dark and difficult period of his very own life. The tragic loss of his beloved father was the main inspiration for his third album which is called "Tabula Rasa". It boasts seventeen glorious tunes created mostly by Ali and features friendly collaborations with artists such as "Andy Farley", "Matt Smallwood", "Phil Able" and "Martin Begley".

Uno: Latin, funky rhythms with a carnival essence and classic house influence running strong through this one.

Feel The City Breakin': Deep male vocal one liners, darker undergroundish grooves and an emphasis of old school raving are definitely the ticket here.

Piranha: Disco house influences, female vocal samples and proper house grooves find their place in 2021.

Alien: Deeper grooves, mysterious subterranean melodies and buzzing basslines are all here in full swing.

Cognate: A tribal feel, curious female chants and ecstatic rhythms are in full force here.

BOD: Futuristic nu-retro vibes complete with a male and female vocal complex and a golden house melody to tie it all in.

Rhythm: Aptly titled tune as one easily gets lost in the glorious labyrinth of grooves and overlord style vocals.

Thundergroove: Creepy melodies, semi distorted patterns and nature's elements at their finest.

Hands Up: Preacher-like vocal one liners perfectly decorate this enthralling tune, captivating us further.

Roborock: Male robotic vocal samples are thrown in amongst loony bird-like caws alongside an up and at 'em funky approach.

Rawkus: Distorted synths and chaotic rhythms are large and in charge while imagery of lost in traffic emerge here.

Tatami: Percussion heaven with a tribal essence and tribal vocal chants running wild throughout this one.

Sex, Drugs and Rock & Roll: Deep, dirty grooves complete with a guitar riff, drums and female vocal shots.

Take Me Away: Classic disco house grooves and piano melodies are dominating this one alongside the male vocal shots.

Keep On Lovin' Me: Rhythmical and energetic as they come. Memories of old school clubbing are definitely here, rare grooves re-emerge alongside a female/male vocal duet of vocal exhales and one liners at synth heaven.

Big Beat: Tumbling drums and mind moving grooves are accentuated by monkey-like chants and a fusion of breakbeat and early disco rhythms.

Give It Up: House grooves complete with male vocal outbursts, anxiety driven beats and intriguing strings. A curious delight of a tune.

 Ali amazes once more with his "out of the box" attitude. Taking a trip down the golden years of raving and clubbing alike he has reinvented the sound, influences and ideas of the scene, breathing new life into an era and sound that has been more or less pushed aside in favor of the current trends. Unafraid to explore his identity as a producer and his large quantity of musical taste, this dance music hero dives in deep and succeeds in updating our current musical tastes track by track. "Tabula Rasa" will easily find a way into your hearts as you unravel the mysteries of each tune.

Label: Untidy

https://www.tidytrax.co.uk/product/tabula-rasa-by-ali-wilson-usb/