Classic Track: Phrenetic – Candy Man

In honor of the modern sequel to the classic slasher Candy Man, I thought it fitting to highlight my favourite Darkcore tune bearing both the same name and a selection of samples from the original ’92 film. Candy Man (released on White House Records in 1994) was produced by the musical duo Phrenetic, comprised of C0ntax and Offkey. I recall finding this tune about 5 years ago and being completely blown away. I’m in awe at how timeless it still sounds.

This track is magnificently minimalistic and eerily dark, with tense breathing and rough whooshes behind an amen break at a blistering—especially for its time—180 BPM. Epic chords ring out from an uncanny choir, evoking one of the more unique atmospheres to be found in the Drum & Bass universe. Candy Man is a killer classic that’s dangerously fun.

Written by Luke Kessler

Loomis – Blurred Horizon EP [Modern Conveniences]

If this is the first time you’re coming across Loomis (or indeed Modern Conveniences) then we urge you to stop what you’re doing and seek out some listening; both artist and label have been forging a creative path along the outer boundaries of Drum & Bass and have released some of the most exciting music we’ve heard over the last 12 months.

The latest from both parties comes in the form of the Blurred Horizon EP, and from the very start the vibes feel epic, but not in that “hands in the air” way associated with main-room dancefloor D&B; the sound here is of a more cinematic scope, majestic synth swells, reverb drenched drums and a subtle, muted euphoria in the melodies. Imagine the soundtrack to something like Drive filtered through the prism of autonomic electronica and you’re somewhere close.

Enthralling, uplifting and enveloping, the four tracks on show here (plus a delicious remix from label boss Akuratyde) showcase the talents of a composer and producer we can’t wait to hear more from. Check out the EP below and watch out for the release coming March 19th via digital stores.

Sleepnet – Angel Blade [Vision]

Since the late 2019 announcement that Noisia would be parting ways as a creative project, neurofunk fans have been waiting with anticipation to see what new projects might emerge from the trio…and we may just have heard the first music from one or more of them. All we know for sure about the mysterious Sleepnet so far is that their first track is coming out on Vision, though the internet rumour mill is already churning with many suggesting the project is a collaboration between Noisia’s Nik and fellow Vision artist Former.

Whoever might be behind the project, the first track certainly bears the hallmarks of the Vision sound; intricate sound designs build tension on the intro before releasing into crunchy breakbeats and growling reese basses, though interestingly Angel Blade doesn’t feel like it’s been primed for the dancefloor as much as the home listening environment.

We’ll certainly be keeping our eyes peeled for more details (and more music) from Sleepnet…for now you can find Angel Blade at digital stores and streaming services.

Premiere: Tellus – Haze

Deep vibrations once again as Tellus returns to Locked Concept! Serene atmospheres and detailed, unconventional percussion characterise this spacey, cinematic journey. Thinking man’s 170…check it out and watch out for the EP coming Nov 21st at digital stores.

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Premiere: Javano – Southbound

Javano lands in our premiere spotlight today with a deep, moving slice of leftfield 170 business. Undoubtedly influenced by the now decade-old Autonomic movement, Southbound is an exploration of unusual rhythms and cinematic soundscapes; the string section in the bridge is just blissful. Look out for this one dropping July 10th via Javano’s Brackwood Audio imprint.

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Premiere: Exsitu & Hickupz – Inertia

Atmospheric vibes on the latest from Subplate Recordings as Exsitu & Hickupz collaborate on thoroughly moody cut Inertia. Shimmering sci-fi synths, sparse but crisp beats and plenty of sub weight; tasty stuff. Look out for the release coming May 30th!

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Premiere: Mako – One Reality

It doesn’t get much better than this…we’re unbelievably hyped to have the premiere of Mako’s One Reality for you today! Taken from his Oeuvre LP for Metalheadz, this is a masterclass in razor sharp breaks, shimmering pad atmospherics and groaning bass tension. 100% trademark Mako business, and all the better for it. Hit up the Metalheadz Store to grab the album on vinyl or digital right now!

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Premiere: Tellus – Shimmering Valley

Tellus is in our premiere spotlight today with a cut taken from his forthcoming Landscapes EP for Locked Concept. Shimmering Valley is rich in texture and atmosphere, with reverb-laden percussion and cinematic synth-work taking centre stage; definitely one for the armchair rather than the dancefloor. Watch out for the EP coming December 14th…

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Premiere: MISO – The Pact

Today’s premiere sees MISO landing on Modular Carnage with a forward thinking slice of techstep. Powered along by finely crafted sound design, pulsating sub bass and punchy drums, The Pact is a perfect balance of dancefloor chops and sonic detail. Look out for this one coming Feb 22nd at all the usual outlets…

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