A² Stopouts
Alien Contact EP

Another collaboration is on deck as 017 from Hakim Murphy and HEAR. Dream Scoring is up with a three track 12” titled Cinematic Panoramas. These tunes create different feels; two that are more straight up dance tunes and one with a flipped out disco vibe. This is the second 12”, following up the psychedelic Image of a Myth on Naissance Music as they continue with their moments of time scoring theme.

Locked-In is back in the game with its sixth release, The Amigos EP. This four-track exploration sees rising producers Andy Somoza and Juaan take the helm, crafting an EP destined for the crates of discerning DJs.Leading the charge is "Disperso," a cheeky and extroverted anthem that injects chopped-up rave stabs and nostalgic vocal breaks into a tight rhythm section. It's a classic Locked-In opener with a fresh twist, sure to get bodies moving."5am" dials up the intensity with driving, compressed kicks and dry snares, exuding edgy confidence – perfect for those late-night warehouse sessions where the energy is pumping.A left turn on the B-side. "Waita" ushers in a spooky atmosphere. Ghostly bells and wet synths dance around an electro snare and airy, galloping hi-hats, creating an intriguing and unsettling soundscape.The EP closes with "Mi Partner," a masterfully woven tapestry featuring silky vocal samples, driving snares, and a killer bassline. This introspective track beautifully counterpoints the playful energy of the A-side.

Kontra-Musik returns with a new release on its sought after, vinyl-only, white label series. The label from the start has celebrated analogue expressions of dance music and now presents a new record by long time label collaborator PST (of Kontra, Workshop & Sued fame). On the A-side PST brings us a 15-minute long analogue techno meltdown. The track is so powerful the vinyl almost melts when played. On the flip, the mood is different. The title of the first track, Houseparty +, is very revealing to say the least, before the EP ends with artist's signature mood music house sound. PST is a master of his craft, and it is with joy and pride we release a new hand-stamped vinyl after a few years of COVID hiatus.

After a couple of solo EPs to start the label, FAC-3 is comprised of four different artists, each with their own unique sound. Although a mix of up-and-coming and established producers, old and new music, there’s a common thread running through the EP.First up, Justin Zerbst’s Waverider is an atmospheric nod to Detroit. Unearthed from a 90’s DAT, it’s built around some heavily modulated chords and 808 percussion which carry the track through to its string-laden climax.Italian mainstay Luca Piermattei’s Venice is distinct end-of-night fare. Haunting pads sit atop a deftly-programmed bass which provides most of the movement over a tight drum groove.While the A side has a undoubted warmth to it, the B dials things back and ups the intensity with two techier cuts. UK producer Skelter’s first release is a spacious acid groove, with the bassline taking centre stage amidst a nervy backdrop of percussive textures and reverb hits.Finally, Melbourne's LOIF rounds things off with the simmering Digiburra; a dense, electro-tinged breakbeat aimed squarely at the dancefloor.