Zone-Magazine-Wally-Lopez-Issue-040

" Trust Wally is
a movement to
help up and
coming DJ's to
be heard using
my radio show
as a speaker for
them. Not just
newcomers "
ISSUE 040 2024 WALLY LOPEZ
| GEZ VARLEY | Pulsar | MAKING MUSIC ON A BUDGET P2 | Moshic |
| Oldskool Vinyl You Must Have PT2 | SAMMY DEAN | | DJ CARTS | Jimster |
| Music Reviews | SKIRRA | Pascal Kleiman | TECH / SOFTWARE REVIEWS | Robert Haagsma |

WELCOME
ISSN 2009-8014 (Online) ISSN 2009-8006 (Print)
FOUNDER, EDITOR, PUBLISHER & HEAD
OF CREATIVE
Paul Newhouse
paul@zone-magazine.eu
FEATURE WRITERS &
CONTRIBUTORS
USA
Megan Williams
megan.williams@zone-magazine.eu
Amber Leigh Melby
amberleighmelby@gmail.com
IRELAND
Antoney Mac Phiarais
antoney.mac@zone-magazine.eu
Msykes
paulbrady82@hotmail.com
UK
Paul Sawyer
paul@kraftedmusic.com
John Ricketts
john.ricketts@zone-magazine.eu
Paul Hawcroft
paulhawcroftmusic@gmail.com
Mark Neenan
Markneenanpromos@gmail.com
John W McDevitt -
j.w.mcdevitt@talk21.com
LOUK
Info@compulzion.co.uk
Jack Acid
@RaveReiews YouTube.
SPAIN
Terry Hobbs
tdhobbs79@gmail.com
D4main Smith
20adm.com@gmail.com
PORTUGAL
Jose De Sousa
japsousa@gmail.com
NETHERLANDS
Thorsten Benders
thorsten@zone-magazine.eu
MUSIC DIRECTOR
John Ricketts
john.ricketts@zone-magazine.eu
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ZONE MAGAZINE is owned and published by Paul
Newhouse. Arrangement, design & Editing,
Marketing by Paul Newhouse. Copyright 2014-2023
Zone Magazine. The views expressed and opinions
given in this magazine are not nessicerally shared
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Zone Magazine.
Well Folks, Lots of great things happening here at Zone HQ just for you lot, so keep
coming back! Well its Spring 2024, and we have a whopper packed issue with all the
regulars, and lots of interviews! Just to let you guys know, we are back to bi-monthly now.
In our feature interviews in this issue we talk to cover artist and Spanish Legend WALLY LOPEZ.
Born in San Blas in Madrid, 1976, Angel David López starts his career as a DJ and radio presenter at the
early age of thirteen. With an innovative programme, specialized in dance music, he broadcasts his
sessions at Top Radio (Spain) in the early mornings of the weekend. Wally, a pioneer of the house music
in Spain, starts his career as producer in 2000 by launching the label Weekend Records, and remixing
artists such as Tiësto, Marco V, Valentino Kanzyani, Dirty Vegas, Bob Sinclar and Robbie Riviera. Many of
his records are successfully published with renowned labels including Defected, Underwater, Yoshitoshi
and Subliminal.
From the UK we speak to JIMPSTER a.k.a. Audiomontage, a.k.a. Franc Spangler, real name
Jamie Odell, is a British born house producer and DJ. Together with Tom Roberts, he founded the labels
Freerange Records and Delusions of Grandeur. While producing his own tracks and playing live shows,
Jimpster has also worked on remixes, including a remix of the song 400 years by Bob Marley. Born into a
musical family, Jimpster was influenced and encouraged by his father Roger Odell who is the drummer in
the jazz-funk band Shakatak. It was there that he was first exposed to electronic synthesizers and
recording equipment at around age 10.
Our boss-man Paul Newhouse catches up with GEZ VARLEY aka UFO aka G-Man, from the
UK. Gerrard Varley hailing from the UK is an electronic producer, live act, and DJ, who was a member of
LFO during the 1990s and later and now releasess under the moniker G-Man. Varley founded LFO in
1990 with Mark Bell, whom he had known since 1984. Their first release LFO was released by Warp
Records in 1990 and reached the British single charts, and went on to sell 150,000 copies worldwide in
1990. During the 1990s Gez focused on his solo productions. His debut album Kushti was released in
1996 as G-Man. In the same year he left LFO. He released music on his own imprint G Records as well
as on the German labels Studio K7 and Force Inc. Music Works. In 2000, he founded the label GMR
Records.
Paul also talks to Miss SAMMY DEAN from the UK. With decades of house music knowledge
and passion, Sammy brings you an eclectic mix of house, classics, disco, and 80’s edits with an uplifting
party vibe. Her versatility also leads to an occasional dive into some dirtier tech house beats, catering
from warm up to peak time sets. Frequenting the sweaty dance floor of Legends nightclub in Warrington
at the tender age of 17, started a love of house music which led Sammy to purchase her first set of
Technics 1210’s at 18 and she has been engrossed in the scene ever since. Winner of this year’s ‘Slip
back in time’ Mix Factor competition, judged by legends Slipmatt, Rob Tissera and Ratpack, Sammy
played a winner’s set at iconic Ibiza club Es Paradis.
Paul Sawyer has a quick chat with the Lord of the dark beat, MOSHIC. Moshic rose to power
in the early ‘00s and helped to solidify a sound only the Israeli underground could deliver. A whirlwind of
international gigs and high profile media attention made him a global star and then as quickly as he’d
risen, he was suddenly a ghost. After a sizable hiatus, Moshic is back and better than ever pushing his
trademark club sound to the masses. Krafted has enlisted his talents for their forthcoming 10 year
anniversary compilation, and long time Moshic fan, Simon Huxtable sat down with him recently to chat.
From France we speak to PASCAL KLEIMAN. A French artist, who has no arms and who
works with his feet, the truth is that until you see him live you have a hard time believing it. I imagine
the beginnings were complicated. Our man Luz has a chat at this wonderful inspiring chap. A DJ since
1989, playing the best clubs and festivals worldwide. Born in Toulouse, he started in the world of music
from the explosion of French free radio during the 1980s. With his radio program Virus, he showcased
independent underground punk and funk with the likes of ESG, Liquid Liquid and early electronic beats of
A Split-Second and Front 242.
Also from the UK, we catch up with the youngest artist we have had here at Zone, PULZAR.
Young DJ Pulsar has become quite the phenomenon this past few years. Mirroring his dad on the 1210's
from the unbelievable age of just 2 years old, competently mixing CDJs at 3, and engaging in viral, vinyl
live streams online at 8. Jay is without question destined for the top, having already smashed the dance
floors of some of the top UK institutions. Pulsar's future is looking incredibly bright so after several
months of watching this 11 year old super talented young man, Paul Newhouse, just had to have a chat!
From The Netherlands Thosten chats to auther ROBERT HAAGSMA. Robert is Netherlands'
largest vinyl connoisseur. He shared several moments with all the great artists of the world and has a
record collection that a department store could not accommodate. As a Dutch freelance music journalist
he works for various media such as Algemeen Dagblad, Aardschok, Aloha, Record Collector and
Revolver's Lust for life. In addition, he published books about André Hazes, Rob de Nijs, Pink Floyd and
he wrote the book Vinylfanaten. In 2012, 'Golden Earring, the American Dream' rolled off the press,
which Haagsma wrote together with author Jeroen Ras.
As if all that was not enough of course we have our regular articles, and reviews and charts
from the talented and dynamic Zone crew. Also this issue we continue Zone Magazine's FREE
exclusive DJ Mix series.
As usual we would like to thank all of our very many talented contributors and friends who
provide so much content, love and support for what we are doing, they are listed on the left hand
column on this page if you want to contact them directly with the latest news. From myself and the
whole Zone crew, we just wanted to say thanks again for your continued support, peace.
Paul & Zone Magazine Crew!

contents
07 - FREE DJ Mix Series
Wally Lopez
Issue Features
08 - Pulsar [UK]
36
14 - Moshic [Isr]
18 - Pascal Kleiman [France]
24 - Jimpster [UK]
28 - Sammy Dean [UK]
36 - Wally Lopez [Spain] [Cover]
40 - Gez Varley [UK]
44 - Robert Haagsma [Netherlands]
50 - Skirra [UK]
Regulars
54 - Making Music On A Budget PT1 [LOUK]
24
Jimpster
Pascal Kleiman
18
40
Gez Varley

Pulsar
Software / Hardware - Music
Reviews - Charts
58 - Software Hardware and Tech
LOUK [UK]
59 - Progressive House Classics - Buried Tresure
Jay Dobie [UK]
60 - Oldskool Vinyl You Must Own PT1
44
08
Jack Acid [UK]
61 - STAFF PICK - RELEASE
62 - DJ Charts
64 - House & Techno
John Ricketts [UK]
66 - Hard Techno / Techno
Mark Neenan [UK]
Robert Haagsma
Making Music On A Budget PT 2
50
Sammy Dean
28

https://zonewebart.com
https://redbox-records.eu

Exclusive DJ Mix
FREE Exclusive DJ Mix Series
At Zone Magazine here we have our FREE Exclusive DJ Mix each issue!
Check out the link below for all our exclusive DJ Mixes.
FELIX FX [GERMANY]
PETE VAN PAYNE [GERMANY]
PAUL BLEASDALE [UK]
EDDIE AMADOR [USA]
LISA LASHES [UK]
DANY COHIBA [SPAIN]
SOULTRAK [UK]
CHRIS GEKA [FRANCE]
JOHN GIBBONS [IRELAND]
PAUL NEWHOUSE [IRE]
DJ SAMER [USA]
MARK NEENAN [UK]
GAVIN HARDKISS [USA]
GERRY VERANO [AUSTRIA]
SONAS [UK]
PAUL HUTCHINSON [UK/SPAIN]
FRANK DUEFFEL [GERMANY]
DARREN MARTIN [UK/SPAIN/IBIZA]
TIM FRENCH [UK]
GER VARLEY [UK]
PASCAL KLEIMAN [FRANCE]
https://www.mixcloud.com/ZoneMagazineDJMixes/
https://www.progressivehouseclassics.com/

featureinterview
_________________
Words Paul Newhouse
________________________________
Photography Evocreative / Tidyland
_______________________
Connect https://linktr.ee/pulsardj
Young DJ Pulsar has become quite the
phenomenon this past few years. Mirroring
his dad on the 1210's from the unbelievable
age of just 2 years old, competently mixing
CDJs at 3, and engaging in viral, vinyl live
streams online at 8. Jay is without question
destined for the top,
having already smashed the dance floors
of some of the top UK institutions. Pulsar's
future is looking incredibly bright so after
several months of watching this 11 year old
super talented young man, Zone Magazine
just had to have a chat!
" Nick from Hardtrance Europe had seen me playing a
lot on social media so he invited me down to play at his
night called Hindsight in Exeter in November 2023. I
played a classic Hardtrance set on a Funktion One
Soundsystem which I absolutely loved "

Ok we know you are only a young
guy at present, but tell us the story
of how you got into the music and
how did you learn and build the skills
you so clearly have now?
I was mirroring my Dad from being 2yrs old
playing on a pretend set up made from cushions and old
CD’s. When I was 3yrs old I used to stand at the side of the
decks with my Dad watching for hours. I then started to
learn at 3yrs old. When I was 5 my Dad started to cover up
the screens on the CDJs to train my ears. At 6yrs old I was
begging my Dad to teach me vinyl. He started to teach me
vinyl at 7yrs old and by the time I was 8yrs old we were
playing together on vinyl in our home mainly playing
Trance & Hardhouse.
Tell us about your normal life. School,
home, friends. Plans for the future.
What other things do you like to do?
I go to normal mainstream high school I am
halfway through my first year but I am looking at going to
Engineering College when im 13yrs old. I enjoy building
and creating things so I think I will enjoy Engineering
school. I live at home with my older brother and my Dad
and my Stepmom lives an hour away from us. I love BMX
biking and I love fixing and mending bikes and scooters. I
like playing Minecraft and other games on the Xbox and
Playstation. I enjoy going to the park with my friends. I
love collecting Prime bottles and I really enjoy clothes
shopping.
Vinyl, CD or Digital, or a mix, and
why?
A mixture ……. Sometimes I like playing vinyl
because I enjoy the challenge of it but I really enjoy
playing digital too because I can be much more creative
making loops & cuts.
If you use digital or CDJ’s, do you use
the sync button? If you do or do not,
tell us why?
I have never used the sync button I think it’s
cheating. I don’t understand why you would use it.
My first adult gig was at Air Superclub for Wax
Format in Birmingham when I was 10yrs old. I played a
B2B vinyl gig with my Dad but I kicked him off the decks
after the first 20 mins, that was a pretty special gig for me.
I also won the Tidy Weekender competition and I got to
play at the sold out Tidy Weekender which was pretty
awesome because I have been listening to Tidy Trax since I
was little.
Tell us about the clubs you will be
playing in 2024 and beyond.
I am playing for the Hard Trance Europe
Weekender On The Pier, Al-Dente Soundsystem (Techno)
Rave Kids in Doncaster in July & for them again in Grimsby
in August. Higher Frequency, Classix, and the Madhouse so
far. I am also doing my first International gigs which I am
very excited about in Germany. I am performing for
Solarstorm Festival. I have also been selected along some
other talented kids from around the world to represent the
Kids Rave Official brand from Germany. As part of the Kids
Rave Official we are hosting a charity event in Germany in
July to raise money for Rave The Planet (Berlin Love
Parade) And there are a few more which I cant announce
yet.
What style are you most into and
why?
Techno because from a mixing point of view I can
be more technical with loops & cuts and I find it really fun
to mix especially Hard Techno. However I listen too and
love all types of music.
Do you play other style gigs, like
house, etc…?
I love listening to lots of different music. I like
Michael Jackson my favourite track of his is They don’t care
about us. I also love listening to Hardhouse, sometimes
Trance, Bassline, German Trance, D&B I also like some
bands like 21 Pilots. I have played different gigs ranging
from Trance to Hardhouse, D&B and different types of
Techno.
Tell us about the worst gig and what
happened?
I havent really had a bad gig. I have played on a
few dodgy sound systems and set ups but it’s all part of
learning how to manage things and get round them.
Tell us about the clubs you have
played in and what was your
favourite so far and why?
10 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

Hard Trance Europe have shown a
big interest in you. Tell us about this
and how this happened?
Nick from Hardtrance Europe had seen me
playing a lot on social media so he invited me down
to play at his night called Hindsight in Exeter in
November 2023. I played a classic Hardtrance set on
a Funktion One Soundsystem which I absolutely
loved, Funktion One is my favourite soundsystem!! After
the success of the event Nick asked me if I would like to
record a compilation CD for his HTE record label which I
was honoured to do. We then did an album showcase event
at Cyberdog in London & it was also the warm up to the
weekender event which is taking place in June in Weston
Super Mare in the UK. The HTE Weekender will be amazing.
Its on the Pier in Weston Super Mare & the lineup is
amazing im so lucky to be playing alongside these people.
What do you think of the dance
scene now and what is coming in
the future?
I love it its amazing to watch people dancing and
enjoying my music, I think its going to get bigger and
better!!
You are beginning to make music.
Tell us about this and about your
studio set up.
I have Ableton and an Allen & Heath Xone 2 that
was recommended to me by Mark EG. I have just finished
doing some production lessons with Mark EG as well. I have
a Roland JDXI Synthesiser recommended to me by Mzone.
I am also wanting to get some M Audio speakers for my
production station.
Festival, Super club, Small club or
house party and why?
I have never played at a massive festival but I
think that would be my favourite. Hopefully one day I will
get to do it.

You are stranded on an Island and
all you have are a set of decks, and
a sound system, and 5 tracks to
listen to forever! What are they and
why?
This is a hard question:
Barry Jay – Lucid Dreams (Dave Nemesis remix) I
absolutely love the melody in this track. Lee Haslam – The
Power I love the vocals in this track. Instigator – The Walk
Of Doom – I love the bassline of this track. Ophidian –
Summer storm (rave to the past remix) – This track makes
me feel excited inside. Sunbeam – Outside world – This
track holds a special place in my heart because it was the
first German Trance track that I loved.
Where do you see yourself in 10
years? Personally and Career?
Personally I would love to buy my own house by
the time I am 20yrs old. I have been designing it on
Minecraft for years. I want to revisit Tenerife which was my
first holiday as a child but pay for it myself & take my
parents as a gift. I also want to buy my Dad some custom
decks & whatever my StepMum wants.
In my career I would like DJ all over the world. I
would love to play Techno at boomtown Festival because
that was my first festival and its where I first met Mark EG.
I want to produce music and collab with Mark EG and
Skirra, Yan Sofierce, Basswell Klangkulster Noba &
Instigator. I would also like to build my own 10 inch
monitor speakers that need an amp by the time im 18yrs.
Who have been your influences and
mentors and why?
Amber D has always been very supportive of me
she is fun to watch I love her energy. I also love Mark EG
his energy inspires me. Skirra is a Techno DJ from the UK
and I also love him I first saw him play at Boomtown
festival and I loved his style. I also really like Nicolas Julian
who I have discovered recently.
Tell us what you think of all these
fake DJ’s and so blatantly getting
caught out!
People who pretend to do it annoy me, I practice
all the time and its not fair that people can get big gigs
when they are faking it.
In the young DJ scene who is your
favourite DJ / Producer and why?
DJ Callum/Kieran they are fun to watch they are
super cute together and they play a lot of hard music
which I like.
In the world dance scene who is
your favourite DJ / Producer and
why?
This is a hard one because I love and respect a lot
of different people. The people I am listening a lot at the
moment are: Amelie Lens and Nicolas Julia, But this
changes all the time.
You seem to have a lot of great gear
how did you come to get it all?
My parents have bought some equipment for me
for Birthdays and Christmases. I have also had my Dads
old equipment. I have also very kindly had one of my fans,
Duncan donate his CDJ’s Mixer and lots of other bits to me
which I am so grateful for. And now I am earning a little bit
of my own money I am buying things myself.
" My parents do everything. I have been saying
since I was little that I wanted to be a DJ and make
my own music but after I played my first gig when I
was 8yrs old I said that this is what I really wanted to
start doing "

How have your parents helped you
and felt with everything?
My parents do everything. I have been saying
since I was little that I wanted to be a DJ and make
my own music but after I played my first gig when I
was 8yrs old I said that this is what I really wanted
to start doing. So we talked about social media and me
being on there but my Dad and Stepmum manage it all. I
wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for them. My Dad
supports me with my music stuff and my Stepmum
organises all of my bookings and drives me everywhere
and does all of my social media. They are massive music
fans so they love what I do and fully support me in my
dreams.
What do you think the most
important aspect of a DJ is? And
why?
The main thing for me is it doesn’t matter how
good of a DJ you are its more important to be a good kind
person. Nobody wants to work with somebody who is a
horrible person.
Another thing I think , as well as being able to
beat match properly it is important to have good crowd
interaction, and crowd control. I hate watching boring DJ’s
behind the desk its all about having fun. And I had a gig
recently and my first couple of tracks lost the crowd a little
bit so I changed my set to get everyone back and it
worked.
What style of DJ’ing do you prefer;
up and down all night, working and
controlling the crowd, or start slow
and build and build, or just go for It all
night? And Why?
It totally depends on the night, I play lots of
different ways apart from up and down all night I don’t like
that I think it looses the crowd but if I had to choose I
think build up is my preferred style because I like taking
people on a journey.
Any last words?
Thank you for interviewing me.
Well, thank you Jay for the time, and some last
words from Zone; Have fun, stay humble, work hard,
and always help others in need. Don’t listen to the
negative and toxic, and stay away from Social media,
get someone else deal with that one! It’s important
for promotion, but stay with that. Good look in the
future, and take care of yourself. And don’t forget
what the scene is all about!

featureinterview
_______________
Words Paul Sawyer
______________________________
Photography Eldad Yariv & Salivanchuk
___________________________________
Connect https://www.facebook.com/moshic.official
Lord of the dark beat, Moshic rose to
power in the early ‘00s and helped to
solidify a sound only the Israeli
underground could deliver. A whirlwind of
international gigs and high profile media
attention made him a global star and then
as quickly as he’d risen, he was suddenly a
ghost. After a sizable hiatus, Moshic is back
and better than ever pushing his
trademark club sound to the masses.
Krafted has enlisted his talents for their
forthcoming 10 year anniversary
compilation, and long time Moshic fan,
Simon Huxtable sat down with him recently
to chat.
14 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

Hi Moshic, How’s your day been so
far?
I'm great! Music creation is still in my hands and
mind; family, who am I to complain?!
Talk us through life in Northern
Israel. What music were you into
growing up, and who influenced
your desire to become a DJ/
producer?
I grew up in a very musical family. My mum was a
Spanish performer and singer and that's how I got to
introduced to the meaning of live music and stages.
Luckily, I grew up in the ‘80s so I was influenced by
magical times: Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, Elton John,
AC/DC. …too many to mention.
Let's talk about that DJ Mag World
Series CD. I imagine 2004 was a bit
intense! How did the mix transform
your life?
It was very intense! Entering the DJ Mag top 100
and that CD cover when the internet was still in diapers
exposed me to the world so fast! Great times, and so
powerful to travel the world with music that I couldn't give
a name. Later, it was called ‘Dark Progressive House.
Pete Tong once described you as
the “best Israeli thing since felafel”.
Tell us about the pressure placed on
artists when your career is in a good
place.
I can't say pressure from the mental side, but
more from travelling every weekend around the world. That
was amazing and physically hard. So many events with a
passion to bring the underground sound from DJs like
myself, great times with no need for social skills but only
good music!
more and more back into the studio chair and there you go.
I guess the scene changed quite a
lot in 20 years. What were some of
the most significant to you?
I think it's obvious that the scene right now there
is more demand for good music after so many years of
social media instant DJs and wannabe producers. Now
there is a new movement of young people that appreciate
the classic productions when music was the main focus and
not the desire to make a “hit” with the same sounds all
over the music stores.
Are there any new Israeli artists that
you are watching? What sets them
apart?
Not really new names, but I'm very proud of a
few that are doing a great job of presenting other Israeli
electronic sounds like Red axes, Mita Gami, Alphadog,
Adam Ten, Ritmo, and Dekel.
What typically comes first, the
drums or the melodies?
Haha ...the melody is the soul and the guide to
the drums for sure!
Has the way you make music
changed? What was it that made
you adapt?
Some technical and software changes but really
minor, I still produce in the same way I did since the
beginning, thank god for that!
Well, it's been fantastic to chat, Moshic. I wish you
well for the future. Is there anything you want to
finish on? Keep it dark! Viva la underground!
In the last few years you’ve had a
resurgence. What made you want to
be active again?
Never stopped! I always had a room in my house
dedicated to music, time changed and the music stopped
paying the bills, so as a natural business guy I opened a
few businesses and when the kids grew up I found myself
16 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

featureinterview
________________
Words D4mian Smith
___________________________________
Photography Laura Ruiz / Animalia / Paco Ferrer
________________________________
Connect https://facebook.com/pascalkleiman
A French artist, Pascal Kleiman, who has no arms
and who works with his feet, the truth is that until you
see him live you have a hard time believing it. I imagine
the beginnings were complicated. Our man Luz has a
chat at this wonderful inspiring chap.
A DJ since 1989, playing the best clubs and festivals worldwide. Born in
Toulouse, he started in the world of music from the explosion of French
free radio during the 1980s. With his radio program Virus, he showcased
independent underground punk and funk with the likes of ESG, Liquid
Liquid and early electronic beats of A Split-Second and Front 242.
He studied Law in Toulouse, but in 1989, with the revolution of the acid
house movement, he found his calling as a DJ and record producer
performing and creating music for the first rave parties in France. In 1992,
he took on his first artist residency at a nightclub in Madrid called club
"Attica".He soon moved to Valencia in 1993 where he took a new artist
residency at Discoteca N.O.D. alongside Kike Jaen. In 1996, he created the
record label "UV" with the purpose of producing alternative artists of the
electronic music scene in Valencia, Spain.
Born without arms or hands due to thalidomide, he is known by many as
"The Amazing Pascal", or "The DJ who spins with his feet",
His plays a mixture of ambient, dub, progressive and psychedelic
electronic music from European, South African, American and Asian
artists. Owning his own record shop gives him access in the latest
electronic dance music.
Kleiman was the subject of Angel Loza's 2008 documentary film Héroes.
No hacen falta alas para volar, which was nominated for a Goya Award in
the Best Short Documentary category.
18 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

PascalKleiman
" In the era we are
living in of so much
globalization, what
music is missing a little
is identity and
soul. That is why I
believe that returning
to work at a more
local level can be a
way to rediscover
various musical
identities or particular
sounds that have
been lost by finally
always seeing the
same artists in all
places "

Who are the key people who have
helped you in this successful career?
There were several people who were decisive when
it came to realizing my dream. At first 2 DJs: DJ Rob, ( who
now rest in peace), was the friend who spiritually connected
me to the fact of choosing to be a DJ as a Vocation. He was
my spiritual teacher, he had enormous talent and I saw
through it that this was not a simple game but rather a
vocation and a complete lifestyle. He carries out his work
with passion and great seriousness. I understood with J Rob
that being a DJ was something so artistic, professional and
honorable. Freddy Love, another DJ friend from Toulouse,
was a great musical influence for me. Working with all the
big English and American distributors made me discover a
multitude of artists who were going to greatly influence my
style, from acid house to San Francisco's tech-house,
Chicago house, Detroit techno and all the old school labels
from early house like Nu Groove for example.
be desired.
What do you think you still need to
do in music?
In the era we are living in of so much
globalization, what music is missing a little is identity
and soul. That is why I believe that returning to work
at a more local level can be a way to rediscover
various musical identities or particular sounds that
have been lost by finally always seeing the same
artists in all places.
What else do you do in your free
time?
In my free time I like to be with my friends . I like
the sun, the beach, the summer and enjoying the moment.
Why did you decide to move to
Valencia specifically?
My connection from 1989 with Valencia was what
made me decide to dedicate myself 100% to this since the
scene and the movement in Valencia at that time was
magically intense and very creative. After a short stay in the
Attica in Madrid for a few months in 1991 I moved to
Valencia where I already found a party tailored to my needs.
Long sessions, many clubs, very good DJs and music that
ran through the veins of a very dedicated audience. Valencia
at this time was very avant-garde just as Manchester was in
England.
What do you like more to DJ or
produce?
I like many styles of music now, both
electronic and urban music. But what I like to produce
the most is deep techno and melodic techno. Also Afro
house, Afro beats and Amapiani are styles that
fascinate me.
As a DJ, what do you like most and
least about this life?
What I like most about this life as a DJ is that it is
very fun. It gives you the opportunity to travel a lot and to
be in contact with people who come to enjoy and that is
priceless.These opportunities to connect with people from
countries with different cultures around music are clearly a
privilege. Throughout my career I have been able to get to
know all of Europe but also India, Israel or Russia and you
realize that music is a totally universal language that allows
you to express yourself wherever you go. What I like the
least is this fever related to social networks that give more
importance to the views one gets on Insta or Tik Tok than to
the actual content of what they say or their career as an
artist. In the end, a showcase is being privileged more than
what is actually there. In this way, the selection of artists
that you can find scheduled at many events leaves much to
You will have thousands of
anecdotes with so many events and
trips. Tell us a fun one or something
you'll especially like?
More than an anecdote I want to mention special
moments that I have experienced DJing or watching other
artists DJ. Magical moments when everything comes
together and your music flows with the audience in such a
way that the beat also follows you. The wind, the sun, the
rain, everything seems to suddenly obey your music. I have
experienced that and it is wonderful.
Tell us about the short film and the
nomination for the Goya awards?
In the short film you can see him playing a song by
infected mushroom that mentions rain, it just started raining
during this great song. Coincidence or supernaturality? That
is the question one can ask. For my part, the word chance
has not been part of my language for a long time.
What difference do you see between
the Spanish and French scenes?
10. I know more about the Spanish scene than the French
scene but I really like both scenes. Each country has its own
musical culture and has brought many musical gems
respectively. I would say that the French scene is more
funky and the Spanish scene is more techno.
20 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

" I like many styles of music now, both
electronic and urban music. But what I like to
produce the most is deep techno and melodic
techno. Also Afro house, Afro beats and
Amapiani are styles that fascinate me "

Do you think the connection with the
public is being lost?
The connection with the public suffers from a lot of
what has come between music and the public, namely social
networks and cell phones in general. It seems that we no
longer know how to connect if we don't have a laptop in our
hands.I remember a time when it was forbidden to show
cameras in a nightclub and that made the magic on the
dance floor and the connection between people much more
real than taking so many images, selfies and recordings.
How do you see the future of the
music industry?
The future of the music industry is more difficult to
predict than ever, especially when you take into account the
growing role of technological advances in MAO and artificial
intelligence, but I believe that in the end we will always find
a way to Music continues to be something important for
people for their happiness and well-being. So I have no
doubt that the music industry knows how to evolve with its
time and still reserves many sensations for us.
What are your next projects?
I am currently developing musical works to perform
with the sifu group in various galas in Spanish theaters. It is
about combining symphony orchestra singers and electronic
music with artists from the diverse world. We have already
done 5 galas in Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, Mallorca and
Valladolid and the result is impressive. Full house, lots of
energy, quality and atmosphere. I recommend you go to one
of them when you are close. It is called Gala Superarte and
is organized by the SIFU foundation.
artistic profession.
I guess the only recommendation I can give to
people who want to get into this world of music is to
leave doubts aside, work hard and go for it without
fear.
Digital, Vinyl, CD's or a mix, and why?
Digital, because it s more easy to carry alone and
the quality is also very nice in wav files. Because also there
is more music to choose and play and more datas to use as
information about the tracks, bpm keys etc…Although I think
older supports are important most of all to learn the mixing
techniques so I would say digital connecting points to
analogue ways.
Tell us what you think of all these
fake DJ’s and so blatantly getting
caught out!
What I think about fake DJ’s is the same of what I
think about the fake in general. It doesn't touch only music
but absolutely everything in general and more the fake is
fake more it works because this is unfortunately what our
times are about until it comes a new works, a new
consciousness that makes one day drop the masks. It’s true
for absolutely everything in this workd where people walk on
the head!
Who would you like to work with you
have not?
Ok look, I have a lot of admiration for the 3
founding artists of a group from the 80s making incredible
music between New Wave and electronica. This is the Swiss
group «Yello» composed since its inception of Carlos Perón,
Dieter Meier and Boris Blank. To work with them one day
and enter the secrets of how this group produces and
composes would be an honor and a huge pleasure!
In another record, a group that inspires me a lot
and that has been out of all kinds of competition for its
originality, its creativity and its magical melodies are "The
Cure" And if you ask me to choose an iconic song that was
going to inspire techno for the next 40 years, I would say
New Order's "Blue Monday."
Some advice for the young aspiring
DJ's and producers, and for people
with disabillity, who want to dedicate
themselves to music or another
" I guess the only
recommendation I can
give to people who
want to get into this
world of music is to
leave doubts aside,
work hard and go for it
without fear "
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What style of DJ’ing do you prefer; up
and down all night, working and
controlling the crowd, or start slow
and build and build, or just go for It all
night?
It depends on the music i want to live or listn when
I go out. If we speak about urban sounds I prefer up and
down all the night. If i go to listen to house or techno I
prefer a DJ that knows to start slow and build and build until
climax!
You are stranded on an Island and all
you have are a set of decks, and a
sound system, and 5 tracks to listen
to forever! What are they and why?
Joy division - love will tear us apart, Kraftwerk - boing boom
tshak, Severed heads - dead eyes opened, Interfront -
destination, Derrick may - strings of life.
Because all those tracks put me high and I am
never tired to listen them. All those tracks are for me a kind
of genesis in my decision to dedicate me to music and djing
What do you think the most
important aspect of a DJ is? And
why?
For me one of the most important aspect to be a
good dj is knowledge to have enough musical culture so you
can express yourself in different ways also a lot of work to
control basics and advanced techniques that always are in
evolution and maybe the mist important one that is missing to so
many ones is humility cos if you know that in fact you doesn’t know
nothing then you keep on learning.

featureinterview
_______________
Words Terry Hobbs
_______________________
Photography @tommyophoto
__________________________________
Connect https://facebook.com/jimpster.freerange
Jimpster a.k.a. Audiomontage, a.k.a. Franc
Spangler, real name Jamie Odell, is a British born house
producer and DJ. Together with Tom Roberts, he
founded the labels Freerange Records and Delusions
of Grandeur. While producing his own tracks and
playing live shows, Jimpster has also worked on
remixes, including a remix of the song 400 years by
Bob Marley.
Born into a musical family, Jimpster was influenced and encouraged
by his father Roger Odell who is the drummer in the jazz-funk band
Shakatak. It was there that he was first exposed to electronic
synthesizers and recording equipment at around age 10.
He started Freerange records in 1996, a label that has since found a
niche in deep house with artists like Shur-I-Kan and Milton Jackson.
Jimpster played in a live electronica band, The Bays, from 2002 until
2007, but eventually decided to focus on DJ'ing and his record label.
In 2007 his label Freerange was voted Best British Label by DJ Mag,
in 2010 he won the Beatport titles: Best Deep House Producer and
Best Deep House Remix of the year.
Our Costa Del Sol man Terry Hobbs had a little chat!
24 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

" The majority of my most amazing moments in music are from
my time spent touring with a live band called The Bays. For about 6
years from the start of the 00’s we got to play some crazy gigs
that I’m so grateful to have got to experience "

Thanks for taking the time speak with
us today! What were the highlights of
2023? Personally and for your
Labels?
Thanks for having me! Yeah, things continue to be
nice and busy both in the studio and with gigs as well as on
the label side. I’ve been playing a hardware based Jimpster
live set since the pandemic, both on my own as well as with
drummer Andy Gangadeen. We’ve got to play some great
festivals and clubs including Gilles Peterson’s We Out Here
and Berlin’s best deep house club Heideglühen. Both of
these sets have been highlights and it’s really nice travelling
with a friend for gigs for a change. It’s definitely more
stressful and more effort playing live shows but the payback
and satisfaction after the set is worth it and people really
seem to appreciate the live element. In 2022 we started a
3rd label called Cyphon Recordings which is already 10
releases in and focusing on Detroit inspired electro and 90’s
UK techno/IDM/electronica. It’s been amazing to set up
another imprint and the response and support has been
much stronger than we imagined.
What was the music that inspired you
most growing up and how has that
influenced the music that you
produce today?
I was lucky enough to grow up in a musical family
with my dad being the drummer in a jazz funk band called
Shakatak and my mum being a jazz vocalist. I used to go
into the studio when Shakatak were recording and to pass
the time I’d grab a synth or drum machine that wasn’t being
used and plug in some headphones and mess around on
them. At the same time I was getting into breakdancing and
starting to collect the Streetsounds Electro compilations so I
guess this period around 1983/84 was when everything
came together and the seeds were sewn.
How did you start out as a DJ? What
music got you into the dance scene,
what did you start out playing?
I think I got two turntables and started learning to
mix records around 87/88. The decks were just hifi decks
but had pitch control of plus/minus 3% so as long as the
records were fairly close in BPM you could get match them
up. Around this time I was listening to a lot of On U Sound
releases so dub reggae, Mark Stewart, Gary Clail and
Tackhead as well as EBM like Nitzer Ebb and Front 242 and
industrial and experimental noise and electronica stuff from
Meat Beat Manifesto, Renegade Soundwave, Throbbing
Gristle and Skinny Puppy. I remember when Renegade
Soundwave’s Space Gladiator and The Phantom came out
and blowing us all away and signaled our entry into clubbing
and discovering house music. I think my first proper gig was
around 1991 in my hometown of Braintree, Essex and going
by the name DJ O.D! Strictly hardcore!
Was there/is there anyone who is
still, or who has been, particularly
influential in your musical journey?
I grew up in a small village an hour from London
but we were lucky enough to have a bunch of older lads who
were obsessed with good music. One of those was Peter
White whose sister worked at Mute Records and would bring
home tapes of upcoming releases which Peter would play to
us. Getting to hear this stuff ahead of release and
sometimes even hearing demos or rare remixes and stuff
which would never be released was a real buzz. He went on
to create a great label called Space Kat around the early
2000’s, a label I followed religiously so you could say he’s
been a constant source of inspiration for a very long period
of time.
What have been your personal
favourite moments in your musical
career? Gigs, Productions etc
The majority of my most amazing moments in
music are from my time spent touring with a live band
called The Bays. For about 6 years from the start of
the 00’s we got to play some crazy gigs that I’m so
grateful to have got to experience. Several Peel
Sessions at Maida Vale, Glastonbury and some other big
festivals in Japan, Holland, Sri Lanka and Brazil. If I have to
pick one highlight it would have to be getting to play with
Herbie Hancock joining us onstage at a sold out Barbican.
Still can’t believe that happened to be honest.
What has been the best concert/
event you have ever been to.
Whether you have played there or
not?
Miles Davis at Wembley Conference Centre in
November 1986 playing tracks from Tutu. I was 13 at the
time and getting obsessed with synths. Seeing Robert Irving
III with his vast racks of keyboards was the moment that
made me think, I’d like some of that please!
What music do you normally play at
home these days?
Mostly soul and jazz both old and new. Rainer
Trueby has a Facebook group called Soul Gliding which I
discover a lot of great older stuff through.
26 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

Tell us about the clubs you like to
play in? and what do you prefer,
festivals, clubs, bars?
I’m happy to get to share music anywhere there’s a
nice crowd of open minded music heads but generally the
more intimate and close up the setup is the more connected
you feel and therefore brings out the best in terms of taking
more risks with selections.
Tell us about your next projects.
When is the next release? And what
else are you excited about for the
labels this year?
I’ve just finished a Jimpster EP for Nu Groove which
I’m really excited about and that should be dropping after
summer. Also got a remix for a great South African artist
called beatsbyhand which is just about to come out on Stay
True Sounds. I’m currently in the studio working on a
collaboration EP with Berlin based producer Philippa which
will most likely be our 300th Freerange release coming out
around November. And we’ve also reached another
milestone on Delusions Of Grandeur hitting our 100th
release with a brilliant new EP from Session Victim called
Screen Off.
Favourite gigs of 2023?
I always love playing in South Africa as it’s a very
different experience to anywhere else and the energy levels
are always off the scale. I’ve also got my monthly night at
my wife’s venue Acanteen here in Essex called Jimpster
Invites. We had some great nights last year with Aroop Roy,
Atjazz, Terry Farley, Crazy P, Mood II Swing and Sean
McCabe all joining me. Special shout to Heideglühen in
Berlin for two amazing live shows and to Louie Vega and
Anane for inviting me to play live at their Ibiza residency at
Chinois which was another special night.
And what are the gigs you are really
looking forward to in 2024?
Jimpster - Birdhouse LP
Osunlade - Momma’s Groove (Jimpster Remix)
Swell Session - Prepared To Go (Jimpster Remix)
Jimpster - Headspin
Franc Spangler - Fight The Feeling
Freerange Top 5
Marcel Wave - Holton (Serafin Remix)
King Kooba - San Salvador
Switch - Get On Downz
Blackjoy - Untitled (Kerri Chandler’s Bigga Remix)
Salvatore Freda & Volta - Western Spaghetti
If you were stuck on a desert island
and could only take 5 records with
you, what would they be?
David Sylvian - Brilliant Trees, Pat Metheny & Lyle
Mays - As Falls Wichita, So Falls Wichita Falls, Grace Jones -
Slave To The Rhythm, Kraftwerk - Computer World, George
Duke - The Aura Will Prevail.
Where do you see the future of
Electronic music? Any particular
trends you see moving forward?
Personally, I’m not really into new trends or genres.
I’m pretty old school and happy to continue digging for older
music I’ve missed and following the original pioneers of
house who continue to impress whilst staying true to the
roots of club music.
Thanks Jamie, great chatting to you!
Looking forward to catching up with
you again in June for Amor Andalucia!
Thanks for having me and see you in the sunshine!
Black Coffee just invited me to play his night at Hi,
Ibiza in August which should be a blast! I’ll be heading over
to Spain to play Stuart Patterson’s Amor Andalucia which I’m
really looking forward to. It’s a really solid line-up including
Terry Farley, Ronnie Here and Dave Jarvis as well as a host
of brilliant local DJ’s. Can’t wait for that one! Also got some
more US dates in San Francisco and Detroit coming up soon.
What are your own top 5 records
that you have produced? And your
top 5 that you have released on the
label?

featureinterview
_________________
Words Paul Newhouse
_______________________
Photography Nathan D’amour
___________________________
Connect https://linktr.ee/sammydean
With decades of house music knowledge and
passion, Sammy brings you an eclectic mix of
house, classics, disco, and 80’s edits with an
uplifting party vibe. Her versatility also leads to an
occasional dive into some dirtier tech house
beats, catering from warm up to peak time sets.
Frequenting the sweaty dance floor of Legends
nightclub in Warrington at the tender age of 17, started
a love of house music which led Sammy to purchase
her first set of Technics 1210’s at 18 and she has been
engrossed in the scene ever since.
Winner of this year’s ‘Slip back in time’ Mix Factor
competition, judged by legends Slipmatt, Rob Tissera
and Ratpack, Sammy played a winner’s set at iconic
Ibiza club Es Paradis. They said
“Sammy is a very talented, passionate DJ with a truly
special sparkle”
Smashing festival sets at Beatherder and Glastonbury
have been highlights this summer as well as
Clockwork Orange at Fabric London. Sammy has given
up her day job to pursue her DJ career and is hoping
to inspire others that it is never too late to follow your
dreams. The ‘pocket rocket’ as she has been
nicknamed, is certainly making for take-off.

" My rule is, if I
like it I play it.
house, disco, tech,
80’s edits,
whatever I feel
like I play. I like to
play a mix of
genres in my sets
and it seems to
work "

" last year I played in the spike bar in the glade
at Glastonbury, it was a special moment, as the
bar was packed and I received an ovation at the
end of my set "

Tell us about Sammy.
I grew up in Warrington, Cheshire. My dad was a
guitarist in a band in his spare time, so we always had music
on and tried to learn different instruments.
Tell us about how you got started in
the dance scene.
My neighbour who was a year older than me, took
me when I was 16, to a club called Legends in Warrington in
1991, I had never experienced anything like it. I went back
the following week on my own as she couldn’t make it, I saw
some of the people I had met the week before and made new
friends. I basically went every week and danced on a podium
behind the DJ with a girl called Tracey who I am still friends
with now.
First DJ equipment and when? Why?
So, having given up piano lessons and failed
miserably at guitar lessons, I decided I would give playing
vinyl a go. I started going into Hott Waxx records in
Warrington every week. By this time I was 17, I had a part
time glass collecting job and earned about £17 a week. Most
of it went on records. The shop keeper used to keep them for
me until I could afford to pay for them. I for the life of me
can’t remember how I paid for them, but I managed to get
the money to buy a pair of Technics 1210’s and I bought the
old mixer from the record shop when they got a new one.
Festivals, Super clubs, Small clubs, or
House party? And Why?
Festivals during the day, preferably in the sunshine,
because everyone is happy and you can see amazing outfits
and smiling faces.
Tell us about your feelings on Female
DJ’s and how they are seen in the
scene? Are they treated differently?
I regret not trying harder when I was younger
as I now have my age against me in some respects, but
it’s also working in my favour in terms of my knowledge
and ability.
I think the recent influx of influencer and model DJs
has not helped our cause, there are a lot of men saying we
they get booked for our looks. There are a lot of talented
female DJs and they don’t normally come with big egos
attached and have more fun behind the decks. I would like to
see an all female line up without anyone pointing out that it’s
all female.
tunes, it scratches, ends up back in the wrong sleeve, you
can’t find the track you want when you want it etc etc.
Best club you have played and why?
The best club I have played and not for being a great
club as such, but because it was my first proper gig and the
crowd were amazing, was a Wobble event in Birmingham at
the Hockley Social.
What do you think about all the fake
DJs, so blatantly getting caught out,
and that whole future in the scene?
It’s good they are getting found out, it’s not great for
the scene as it gives the wrong impression. There are many
factors to being a good DJ and they should put the work in to
be one.
Best place you have played and why?
last year I played in the spike bar in the glade
at Glastonbury, it was a special moment, as the bar was
packed and I received an ovation at the end of my set.
You are the only person left on earth
after the apocalypse, you find a set of
decks, a mixer, and sound system,
and 5 vinyl. what 5 tracks do you find
to play the rest of your life? And why?
Joe Smooth - Promised Land – One of my all time
faves, Nothing beats this and my kids have instructions to
play it at my funeral. John Summit – Thin Line – Reminds me
of his boat party at Defected Croatia 2021, the vibe on that
boat was amazing and one of the reasons I pushed myself to
DJ. Todd Terry – Jumpin – Again one of my favourite feel
good classics. Bicep – Glue – I played this at 9am in the
morning at a beach party in Croatia and it was a special
moment. Grandmaster Flash & Melle Mel – White Lines – For
sheer entertainment and rapping contests.
Worst gig you have played and why?
I would prefer not to answer any negative questions
as it is not good karma, but of course there are times where I
haven’t performed at my best or accidentally loaded the same
track twice or accidentally turned the wrong deck off. It
happens.
Vinyl, CD’s, Or Digital, or a mix? And
why?
Digital for me. I do love vinyl as it has a warmth to
it, but vinyl is heavy, you can’t carry the same volume of

Who would you like to work with you
have not and why?
I’d love to make a track with John Summit, he is an
absolute legend. Of course the chances of that happening are
slim to none, but we can always have hope!
You have had quite a few releases.
What do you like about making music?
I find it fun and frustrating at the same time. It’s
challenging but exciting when it comes together, then you go
through a phase of having heard it so much it so it loses it’s
charm. Then when you play it out, that excitement comes
back. Having people sing and dance to something you have
created is ace!
Tell us about your studio setup and
favourite equipment.
I only have Ableton on my laptop and the engineers I
work with use Logic, I don’t have room at home to build a
studio and would rather utilise someone else’s expertise and
equipment. I definitely have favourite sounds and samples
and seem to have a thing for a cow bell and an air horm!
Any releases coming up?
I have a track at the moment called As the Funk, just
working on getting it signed now. It is a fun, funky track,
made with daytime parties and festivals in mind and I hope
for it to put a smile on people’s faces.
technology doesn’t replace creativity. Music lyrics and books
are often written from personal experience and I am not sure
technology can replace that. With regards to AI and music
platforms, it’s great an algorithm can suggest new music, but
I don’t like having to play the algorithm game to ensure your
profile or your music gain exposure. It’s a real chore and not
very fair.
You won a mix competition. Tell us
about this please.
A friend of mine told me about the Slip Back in Time
Mix Factor contest and said I should enter. I don’t enter things
unless I am focussed on winning, there is no taking part in my
eyes, I have to know I gave it my best shot. I went to Ibiza
and had to play two poolside 20-minute slots, so trying to
showcase what you can do and get people dancing in 20 mins
is tough. But I won, and I won a set at Es Paradis and I am
back there this year to play for them on their line-up. I am
super grateful to Slipmatt and the Slip Back in Time Crew for
their support.
Any last words?
I want to say to the people that are supporting my
journey, how much it means to me. Everytime someone
purchases a track, or listens to a mix, or messages me telling
me how much they love what I play, it makes it all the more
worthwhile.
My latest mix competiton entry is on my soundcloud
for the United Ants 24 contest, if anyone wants to give it a
listen.
What style do you prefer to play and
make and why?
My rule is, if I like it I play it. House, disco,
tech, 80’s edits, whatever I feel like I play. I like to play
a mix of genres in my sets and it seems to work.
Tell us about the future of the dance
scene. Where do you see it in 5 years?
I think the dance music scene will continue to grow,
but it is ever changing and no doubt we will see a rise and fall
of certain genres as trends change. I think music production
will become even easier with the use of AI but maybe we will
see a lot more creative and hybrid performances.
" I regret not trying harder
when I was younger as I now
have my age against me in
some respects, but it’s also
working in my favour in
terms of my knowledge and
ability "
What do you think of Ai in music and in
general?
I think it will have it’s place, and I don’t mind AI for
helping out with some things for speed, I like using ChatGPT
for help with writing descriptions and letters. In terms of
music and AI in general, we just need to be careful that
32 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

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S Y M B O L S O F Y O U R L O V E

featureinterview
_________________
Words Simon Huxtable
______________________
Photography @maytitalozano
_____________________________
Connect https://facebook.com/wallylopez
Wally Lopez is considered the most important spanish DJ's.
Owner of Factoria Records and Factomania Group, and resident
every thurdays at BE (Space Ibiza).
Born in San Blas in Madrid, 1976, Angel David López starts his career as a DJ and radio presenter at the early age of
thirteen. With an innovative programme, specialized in dance music, he broadcasts his sessions at Top Radio (Spain) in the
early mornings of the weekend.
Wally, a pioneer of the house music in Spain, starts his career as producer in 2000 by launching the label Weekend
Records, and remixing artists such as Tiësto, Marco V, Valentino Kanzyani, Dirty Vegas, Bob Sinclar and Robbie Riviera.
Many of his records are successfully published with renowned labels including Defected, Underwater, Yoshitoshi and
Subliminal. In the same year he also produces what it will be his first international hit ‘Amman’, followed by ‘Patricia Never
Leaves the House’ (both remixes have been relaunched in TheFactoria recently) and ‘Disco Night’, played all over the
globe by DJs like Pete Tong, Hernan Cattaneo or Steve Lawler. The later even dubbed him as ‘The Man of the Moment’…
After working for numerous labels and artists, he decides to create ‘La Factoria Records’ - now TheFactoria - in 2001, as
well as a more underground sub-label called Formula Records. Recently Lopez has added a new label called FatXL that he
has launched together with his colleagues Ismael Rivas and Iván Pica. The three labels together form part of the
Factonomia Group that Wally presides, and it counts with different areas such as a management agency, management
label or the Tremenda clothes shop in Madrid.
TheFactoria counts with more than thirty references of great international repercussion such as ‘Love Time’, ‘Strike Me
Down’ or the more recent tunes ‘Planet Earth’, ‘Burning Inside’ or ‘Close to Me’. The last two were at the number one for
many weeks in a row at the Maxima 51 chart of Maxima FM – the most important dance chart in Spain. Besides, Wally has
the honour to host a national programme of electronic music in Maxima FM, which counts with more than 340,000
listeners each Friday and is also broadcasted in English in Belgium, France, Italy and Russia. Musically speaking his
selected compilations stand out, particularly the Weekend CD Series and I’m Coming To… series. After the editions in
London, Paris, Dubai and Ibiza, Wally Lopez is already preparing a second edition for this summer 2009 that will repeat
destination to the White Island.However, it is in 2004 when Wally Lopez’ musical career acquires its current dimension. It
happens in an uncomfortable train trip from Madrid to Valencia where he creates his remix for David Guetta’s ‘Just A Little
More Love’. In Wally’s hands the tune becomes turns into a world hit and the Madridian becomes one of the undisputable
winners at the Ibiza DJ Awards 2004. In this good year he starts his residency at Pacha Ibiza, together with Darren
Emerson and Tim Deluxe, which he combines with other residencies including The End in London, where he plays next to
artists like Fatboy Slim or XPress2. Later he gains residencies at Discotèque and Pacha in Barcelona, Red Light and The Mix
in Paris and Ministry of Sound in London and appearances at festivals including 10th Anniversary of Creamfields Liverpool,
Creamfields Buenos Aires, Global Gathering, Exit Festival, Weekend Dance, Rock in Rio, Monegros Desert Festival and
Creamfields Andalusia, finally achieving his current summer residency who many consider the best in the world, Space
Ibiza for the Be@Space parties. Besides Wally has the honour to have been the first Spanish DJ to be invited to play at a
Madonna concert (Seville 08).
36 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

" Producing was the most important thing that I’ve done for
my career but I had a moment where I stopped completely
because of this decline in revenues situation. But I'm back
again producing as crazy; just do It to feed my inner voice I
won’t stop making music, it’s too much fun! "

Apart from the love of an unconditional crowd that has
followed him for the last 18 years, he has been awarded with
the recognition and respect of many professionals in his field
and some brands that currently collaborate and work with their
full support in the creation and promotion of products 100%
Wally. Both Oakley and Vueling Airlines are two of his main
partners with whom he promotes their products or presents
events such as I’m Vueling to Ibiza – which was widely
published in the media in 2008. Wally Lopez collaborates also
with dance4life in their fight against AIDS; lending his image
and total support to the cause as one of the projects he
personally considers the most important and useful.
Let’s start at the beginning and give
the readers a little context… It’s 2000
and dance music is flying high. Tell us
about life in Mardrid back then, the DJs,
the music, the life.
Well, we began a little earlier, so we were cooking
slowly what happened from 2000 in advance. That was the
exact moment when a whole generation was into the electronic
scene and so many of us were trying to look for our space in
this industry. Some exciting times in Madrid back then.
Being a resident DJ has formed a large
part of your career. Residents are the
backbone of the club but rarely get the
praise they deserve, so who have
been your favourite fellow residents
and what set them apart?
In those times there were no guest DJs, maybe once
in a while as a present to the crowd, but was all about the
residents… For me, they are still the most important of the
club, the OG´s. Oscar Mulero in Madrid was the “light to follow”
for all of us with his music… it was as if he was telling a story
from the beginning till the end of the night.
You’ve been quoted as saying “God
may be a DJ, but DJs aren’t God”, do
you think egos have taken over the
party?
Egos are getting so stupid nowadays, I do understand
that it is very difficult going directly from making or playing
music in your room at your parent's house to headline huge
festivals but, besides that, you are just a regular person that if
you don’t take care of the others you won’t headline anything in
9 or 10 years time… so just relax and enjoy!
Your glasses have always been a point
of interest for fans. Where do you buy
them and do you always go for bright
colours?
Not always, I’m wearing black ones now haha! I was
sponsored by brands the most of those years, so I don’t buy
too many, I even released my own collab with Oakley years
ago.
Social media is something DJs our age
have had to get used to, but some still
actively avoid it and tour and work
constantly. So is online engagement
the benefit we are led to believe it is?
To be honest, I’m not sure. Iit is true that social media
is very important now but you must keep it real with yourself.
If you feel comfortable with it let's go! It can be very beneficial
for sure… but also has a potential problem. You will see
everyone is doing better than you and everyone is younger and
super cool and that is why you need to be strong and know that
everyone lies on socials, Nothing is real. So once you know that
you can really move forward with your career.
Production has been important to your
career from the beginning. With sales
taking a downturn for a long while now
and streaming providing little revenue,
how do you regard your releases
today?
Producing was the most important thing that
I’ve done for my career but I had a moment where I
stopped completely because of this decline in revenues
situation. But I'm back again producing as crazy; just do
It to feed my inner voice I won’t stop making music, it’s
too much fun!
Krafted have released a compilation to
celebrate 10 years. Talk us through the
process of release from having the
idea for the track to delivering it to Paul
and the gang…
I have great connections with the gang, I’ve released
already with them and I love the way they push in every single
project. So once they asked me to be part of it, I began to work
on a very groovy melodic song that I hope you like.
38 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

You’re in good company on the
release, are there any artists that
piqued your interest?
Honestly??? ALL OF THEM!!! Krafted has such
great taste for music and producers, that I can’t pick just
one name.
Alongside releasing music yourself,
you’ve also had a business minded
approach launching labels,
management and a fashion brand.
Which arm of the business gives you
the most satisfaction?
I do not sleep that much that is true, but I can’t
stop making stuff! Working on “Wally Lopez” as a brand
takes care of what is most important… I love to keep
thinking about what to do next.
This is a project that I really believe in. Trust
Wally is a movement to help up and coming DJs to be
heard using my radio show as a speaker for them.
Not just newcomers but DJs who are doing this all their
lives as a hobby or in places that don’t have the best clubs
or festivals. Talent is out there and I need to help them.
This is just the first phase… but my dream is to do a big
event with DJs from the movement. The world needs
talented DJs not Tik Tok DJs!
Well, it's been fantastic to chat, Wally.
I wish you well for the future. Is there
anything you want to finish on?
Just to thank you for your time and let me speak
about what I love the most.
Link to 10 Years of Krafted Album Mix by
Wally Lopez - https://open.spotify.com/
album/5BlOMsBSQ0yqpEbzRxlXZt?
si=XnQ9aLQvQPCaQccgE3PkTg
Tell us about TRUST WALLY…
ESSENTIALDANCEMUSIC 39

featureinterview
_________________
Words Paul Newhouse
____________________________
Photography Courtesy of Gez Varley
_____________________________________
Connect https://g-man-techno.bandcamp.com/music
Gerrard Varley hailing from the UK is an electronic
producer, live act, and DJ, who was member of LFO
during the 1990s and later released his solo works
under the moniker G-Man.
Varley founded LFO in 1990 with Mark Bell, whom he had known
since 1984. Their first release LFO was released by Warp Records in
1990 and reached the British single charts, and went on to sell
150,000 copies worldwide in 1990.
During the 1990s Gez focused on his solo productions. His debut
album Kushti was released in 1996 as G-Man. In the same year he left
LFO. He released music on his own imprint G Records as well as on
the German labels Studio K7 and Force Inc. Music Works. In 2000, he
founded the label GMR Records.
After years of great acomplishments Gez still works in the music
industry. He recently suffered a battle with cancer, which put his life
on hold for a time, but today Gez continues to remaster, remix,
produce and DJ as Gez Varley and G-Man!.
Over a carer of 34 years Gez has sold over 500, 000 records world
wide not including remixes and compilations and has had his music
used for 2 computer games and 2 adverts.
Zone just had to catch up with this man for a good chin wag!
G-MAN
42 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

GEZVARLEY
" Yeah I think DJ’s
should be heard and
not seen to be honest.
In the old days the
DJ’s were tucked
away in the corner or
at the back of the club.
Now it’s all gone crazy
with super DJ’s.
Hopefully it will get
back to being
underground again
(fingers crossed )! "

Tell us about Gez before music.
I’ve been into music from an early age of 7, when
my dad played me Pink Floyd - Dark side of the moon album.
After that I was hooked and started buying heavy metal,
punk and disco music at the early age of 8. Then by the time
I was 12 I got into electro and early hip hop music. So there’s
always been music in my life one way or the other.
Tell us about your normal life, home,
friends. Personal Plans for the future.
What other things do you like to do?
I like to play retro video games, like Vectrex, NEO
GEO, Dreamcast, Mega drive… not really into the new games
TBH. I like to meet my pals in pubs and have a few beers. I
don’t go to clubs much unless I’m playing or some of my
techno pals are.
Vinyl, CD or Digital, or a mix, and why?
I’m on Bandcamp which is amazing for me, just
been doing some digital releases on there and also some
limited edition stuff like CD’s and Dub Plates. It’s good tone
able to release on most platforms.
Who where and are your influences in
life and music?
Early electro, hip hop, house music, stuff like
German techno and Kraftwerk.
How did you get started in music, and
how did you get together as LFO?
At about the age of 15 I had some Breakdancing
pals up in Newcastle who were putting out tracks back then. I
was blown away at there stuff being done at home on a small
set up (808 drum machine, Vocoder, a few keyboards, a 303
baseline). That’s when I decided to get into music production,
so a few years later I set up my first real group LFO which
was quickly joined by Mark Bell and Martin Williams in 1988.
If you use digital or CDJ’s, do you use
the sync button? If you do or do not,
tell us why?
I’m on Ableton live so I’m sort of doing a half live /
DJ set. So I have loads of loops and full tracks which I’m
jamming together in a unique way. As for DJ’s in general it’s
up to them if they use the sync button … after all they only
play other peoples music.
Tell us about the clubs you have
played in and what was your favorite
so far and why?
I’ve played hundreds of gigs over the last 34 years.
So it’s a bit hard to say which is the best, Sonar 2001 was
amazing for me as we played a "Force inc" showcase in front
of 10 thousand people, which was kinda of scary. Some of
the other cool clubs were “The Orbit (Leeds), The Omen
(Frankfurt), and Berghain (Berlin).
Tell us about the clubs you will be
playing in 2024 and beyond.
I’ve just getting back into giving again after been i'll
with cancer for the last few years. So I’m only doing a
handful of gigs at the moment. Next one is a massive festival
in Portugal “The walk of life" on the 21st of June (loads of
druids and hippies will be there), and also 3rd August in
London.
What style are you most into and
why?
I’m playing a lot of up to date techno with some old
classics thrown in. So mainly deep techno like Soma records
for example.
Tell us about G-Man.
Yes g-man was my sideline project whilst doing LFO.
Warp went anti techno at one point so I decided to go on my
own as G-man.
In the world dance scene who is your
favorite DJ / Producer?
People like Andrew Weatherall, Laurent Garnier,
Maritzio von Oswald.
Tell us about the worst gig and what
happened?
Yes there’s been a few bad gigs normally down to
equipment failure as we played 100% live back in the day
with keyboards, drum machines, and samplers. I do
remember a gig in Newcastle one time back in 1994 when a
raver jumped on stage and came to hug me knocking over
our keyboards and mixer "Oh dear"! we had to restart the set
set again!
You have worked with some of the
top artists in the world, tell us who
was and is your favorite artist(s) to
work with?
Yeah Marco Corola was pretty cool, also Ritchie
Hawtin both had there strong points in the studio.
42 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

You are stranded on an Island and all
you have are a set of decks, and a
sound system, and 5 tracks to listen
to for ever! What are they and why?
Unique 3 - “The theme“, Phuture - “Acid traxs“, 808
State - “Pacific state“, A guy called Gerald - “Voodo Ray“. All
these tracks make the hairs stand up on the back of my head
still, and last but not lest LFO - LFO. Just for the reminder of
the amazing feat that we got it into the UK charts!
What do you think of the dance scene
now and what is coming in the future?
Yeah I think DJ’s should be heard and not seen
to be honest. In the old days the DJ’s were tucked
away in the corner or at the back of the club. Now it’s
all gone crazy with super DJ’s. Hopefully it will get
back to being underground again (fingers crossed )!
You have remixed for many artists.
What has Been your favorite remix
and why? Any advise on remixing
other peoples tracks?
I think the remix for Radio Head was pretty good
and also The remix of “Planet Rock“ for Tommyboy records.
Advice for remixing is use there best bits and inject
your own, after all they want your music mainly not there’s.
Tell us about your best gig and what
happened?
Best gig was my first at the Leeds Warehouse club
April 1990. We were totally scared and played an amazing set
to a club of about 40 people (what a learning curve it was)!
We got paid 4 beers each and taxi fare home! Good times
indeed.
What style of DJ’ing do you prefer; up
& down all night, workin' & controllin'
da crowd, or start slow & build & build,
or just go for It all night?
All depends on the crowd and what time it is.
Normally I like to build a set from slow to fast but if I’m
playing at “peak time“ then it’s straight in “phasers set to
kill“!
Who have been your influences and
mentors and why?
3, 808 State, and Early Street Sounds records UK. All were
big influences for me growing up in Leeds in the 70’s - 80’s,
such a great time for fresh and original sounds.
Festival, Super club, Small club or
house party and why?
Small Clubs and house parties are the best where
you can let your hair down and jam like crazy …. Yes Sir !
You have had a fantastic career so
far, what are your music plans?
I’m slowly getting back into doing gigs again and I’m
also working on my Bandcamp site with releases.
You make music for other industries,
tell us about this and how that
happened?
I’ve done some computer game music over the
years and also a few TV adverts for companies like “Rockstar
Games“, "Volkswagen" Germany. Also done LFO on a film
called “Beats“ about the rave scene. Right now I’m working
on some retro game music for a project on the Vectrex
system.
Tell us what you think of all these fake
DJ’s and so blatantly getting caught
out!
Yeah it’s a shame but these things happen world
wide. There’s always been an underground in all scenes
which will eventually get taken and abused. Happened in
Punk, Disco, Hip Hop, electro, Techno and house to name but
a few.
You have worked with many labels,
who have been the best, most
supportive and what advise would
you give to labels and producers?
Just about all labels suck .. only met a few over the
years which were nice Swim record and Force inc … spring to
mind. My advise to producers is do as much as you can
alone.
Any last words?
Thanks for the interview. Live long and prosper!
Much love G-Man!
Yeah, Juan Atkins, Kraftwerk, Brain Eno, Karl Bartos
(who we worked with in the early 90’s), Derrick May, Unique

featureinterview
___________________
Words Thorsten Benders
_______________________
Photography Robert Haagsma
__________________________________
Connect https://facebook.com/robert.haagsma.7
Robert Haagsma is Netherlands' largest vinyl
connoisseur. He shared several moments with all the
great artists of the world and has a record collection
that a department store could not accommodate.
As a Dutch freelance music journalist he works for various
media such as Algemeen Dagblad, Aardschok, Aloha, Record
Collector and Revolver's Lust for life. In addition, he published
books about André Hazes, Rob de Nijs, Pink Floyd and he
wrote the book Vinylfanaten. In 2012, 'Golden Earring, the
American Dream' rolled off the press, which Haagsma wrote
together with author Jeroen Ras.
Robert latest creation is the incredible book “Passion For
Vinyl part 3, Tales from the groove.” This book offers close to
30 interviews with a very diverse cast of characters. They
have in common a deep love of music. Passion for Vinyl
shares the unique experience of making, buying, collecting
and enjoying vinyl. It’s about the records that inspire people.
The way they shaped their lives. How they sparked them to
pick up an instrument, become a DJ, or start a label, pressing
plant or YouTube channel.
44 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

RobertHaagsma
" I'm extremely happy with the return of vinyl to the mainstream. I am
especially happy that young people are also discovering that the LP is the
most ideal way to really listen to music. Purchasing and playing an LP
requires a certain commitment, while the music is divided into pleasant
chunks of about twenty minutes. LPs also often have memories attached to
them, because of the store where you bought it or because of the person
who gave it to you "

Hi Robert Thank you for your time.
You wrote another fantastic book
“Passion For Vinyl Part III: Tales From
The Groove”. Since you already wrote
2 parts, what made you write a third
part?
Thank you. I wasn't really planning on writing a third
book, but I was asked to do so again by the publisher, Record
Industry in Haarlem. I enjoyed working on the first two parts
so much that I said yes almost immediately. I love music so
much, but it's almost as much fun talking about music.
Especially with people who are as crazy about vinyl as I am. I
also really had the feeling that there were still many stories
that deserved to be written down. There have been so many
new people, especially in recent years. Especially young
people and women; in record stores, as YouTubers, at
pressing plants, and so on.
What is different about this one
compared to the other 2 books and
why should people read this book?
Good question. Of course, they are all completely
different interviews in the first place. What also makes a
difference is that the time in which I made this book is
different from the previous two. Part 1 was released ten
years ago when the vinyl revival was just beginning. There
were a lot of questions. Is it a hype? Who buys all those LPs
these days? And why? Should the industry respond to this?
When I started part 2, most of the questions had already
been answered. Vinyl was really back. I also spoke to people
who had just started a record pressing plant or record store,
for example. Now, five years later, we know for sure that
vinyl is not going away anytime soon. So I took a slightly
more personal approach. Do you come from a musical family?
What records made you love music? Are there any albums
that changed your life? What does your musical life look like
now?
Since you did lot of interviews for this
book, who was the one you where
most excited about interviewing and
why?
It was crazy that Robert Trujillo took so much time
for me when the latest Metallica album had just been
released and the band was about to go on tour. He had also
prepared himself specially by selecting a whole stack of
records. The conversation with Kevin Shields from My Bloody
Valentine was also very cool. Not just because he rarely gives
interviews, he had a very interesting story. I also really
enjoyed talking to Gilad Tiefenbrun, owner of Linn, because I
have been the proud and satisfied owner of a Linn LP12
turntable for more than 25 years, haha!
You traveled the world and met many
interesting people. Who would you
like to interview who you haven't
interviewed yet?
I don't really have a wish list, but it is a bit
frustrating that I have never managed to speak to Pete
Townshend of The Who. I admire him very much and think he
is a very interesting man. I would also like to interview Elton
John one day, but then I only want to talk about his immense
record collection, haha!
Tell us a bit more about the process.
How do you prepare yourself when
writing such a book? And do you
have any advise for aspiring writers?
Together with Anouk Rijnders from Record
Industry, a list of interview candidates is made. That's
where it starts. Then it's up to me to prepare. Which I
do as thoroughly as possible. Then it is a matter of
conducting and transcribing the interviews. It is difficult
to give advice to someone who wants to write a book,
because no book is the same. In general: make sure you
have a good idea and make sure you have a good publisher.
Write about something that really interests you and it will
never become a job. Furthermore, my motto when it comes
to interviews is very simple: prepare well, be genuinely
interested and be on time. Writing is often hard work, but few
things are as satisfying as seeing an article published or
holding a book in your hands.
" Together with Anouk
Rijnders from Record
Industry, a list of interview
candidates is made. That's
where it starts. Then it's up
to me to prepare. Which I do
as thoroughly as possible.
Then it is a matter of
conducting and transcribing
the interviews "
46 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

If you where staying on a lonely
island for 1 year which 3 vinyls would
you take along and why?
Ah, that always difficult question, haha! It changes
every day, but here we go: Air with Moon Safari, because it's
a perfect pop album. Great songs and beautiful production. I
like a good sound. It also brings together styles – pop,
lounge, 70's rock – which I really like. A timeless classic. I
also choose the Ramones' first album, because that band
blew away the cobwebs of the 70s. For me it is still the
ultimate rock & roll album. I have seen the band live many
times and those concerts are still in my Top 10. Just as I am
glad that I ever interviewed most of the original band
members. For the third album I choose Judas Priest with
Unleashed In the East. It is typically a live album with songs
that are all better than the original studio versions. It is also
mainly the album that ignited my love for metal in the late
1970s. But then again, tomorrow it could be different
choices. The jazz and classical department is the fastest
growing department in my collection, to name just one
example.
In your book you say it all started
when your sister gave you the “Blue”
double album by The Beatles. Do you
still listen to the that album?
Ha, well noticed. The 'Blue' double LP that I
received a long time ago was already second-hand.
Apparently my sister was too frugal to get me a new one –
just kidding. But seriously: I traded it in a long time ago for
a mint Japanese pressing from the 1970s. I'm not
sentimental about that. I also have the re-issues that came
out later, such as the 3-LP version from last year. For me,
there are still few albums that bring together as much good
music as that blue compilation 1967 – 1970 by The Beatles.
I still put it on regularly. The Beatles are never boring.
the right direction. Music has meant a lot to my life, both
privately and professionally.
How happy are you seeing that vinyl
is back into the mainstream? & what
are your thoughts about colored
vinyls and all the other limited
editions that are being sold these
days?
I'm extremely happy with the return of vinyl
to the mainstream. I am especially happy that young
people are also discovering that the LP is the most
ideal way to really listen to music. Purchasing and
playing an LP requires a certain commitment, while
the music is divided into pleasant chunks of about
twenty minutes. LPs also often have memories
attached to them, because of the store where you
bought it or because of the person who gave it to you.
I really enjoy seeing how young people build such memories.
Last Saturday was Record Store Day. In a store I visited I
saw a girl of about 10 euphorically dancing away with an
Olivia Rodrigo single. My heart jumped. That's the future of
vinyl! Well, and about colored vinyl. I know people are
complaining about it. It's a bit much, but I think the market
will eventually correct the industry. I remember that there
was also colored vinyl in the 70s. The very first pressing had
a colors. The early buyers were lucky. It would be nice if it
went back to that, instead of 10 different color variants.
Thank your for your time. It was a
pleasure talking with you. Anything
you want to share with us?
Thanks. Your welcome. Famous last words: support
your local record store!
Would you share another career
defining moment with us that made
you the music loving man you are
today?
In the early 80s I saw the band Golden Earring live.
My first pop concert. It was an extremely impressive
experience. It was a world I wanted to belong to, although it
took a long time for that to become reality. Funnily enough,
my first serious interview was with Rinus Gerritsen, the
bassist of Golden Earring. It was such an inspiring
experience that I thought: I want to continue with that. Not
much later I took care of his archive, which much later
resulted in a book: Golden Earring – The American Dream.
Written together with Jeroen Ras. There have been many
experiences and encounters that have given me pushes in

featureinterview
________________
Words Mark Neenan
_______________________
Photography Nick Neuenhaus
__________________________________
Connect https://www.facebook.com/skirraofficial
Skirra (Mike Molokhia) is one of the scenes good guys.
A superb producer, excellent DJ and just a real good egg. He
has released on my Filth Infatuated label remixed for me on
Urban Chaos recordings, we even got to play an energetic
b2b set last year at the awesome Underground Alliance
night in Birmingham.
Dark, brooding, relentless... SKiRRA was born from an obsession with Hard and
Industrial techno. A true blend of hard, aggressive percussion, haunting synth
lines and energetic presence, solidifying his name in the underground techno
circuit. Having collaborated with such infamous names as D.A.V.E. The
Drummer, Sopik, Natalino Nunes, Ayako Mori, Resistohr and more, SKiRRA
doesn't shy away from a challenge, as he has quickly risen to the ranks of one
the best modern techno producers around. With numerous Top 10 releases in
Hard Techno, as well as industry support from some of Techno's biggest
names such as SPDJ on her radio 1 essentials mix, D.A.V.E. The Drummer, Mark
EG, Danny Tenaglia, Cristian Varela, Natalino Nunes, Fatima Hajji and A.P. to
name a few, SKiRRA's is fast becoming a name of recognition, both in the
studio and also on the Hard Techno club circuit. SKiRRA's focus is fixed firmly
on delivering consistent, best quality hard, aggressive Techno that will errupt
dance floors globally. SKiRRA is for the misfit, the outcast, the downtrodden,
the corrupted ...SKiRRA is the underground at it's purest.
" The underground looks so good right now.
There are artists out there that are doing
exceptional things for the underground currently.
Carl Shorts, A.P., MarAxe, Acerbic, Balrog, DAVE
The Drummer "
50 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

Hi Mike, thanks for agreeing to this
my friend. So first things first, what’s
going on in the world of Skirra at the
moment?
Hi ya Mark! It’s been crazy of late. But in a really
good way! We relaunched Mechanikal in February, after a
break from releases which has far exceeded anything I could
have hoped for. The relaunch E.P. was a joint release
between Carl Shorts and myself and got some really solid
support.
Since then, the demo box has been in meltdown,
but the quality of techno that’s being sent in is truly
amazing.
We also have some next level releases in the schedule from
some huge names in techno. I can’t say too much about
some of them but short term, expect music from artists like
Acerbic (A.K.A Chicago Loop), A follow up from one of my
favorite artists in the game right now; MarAxe. And a whole
load of new cuts from me.
We also decided to launch a podcast called The
Mechanikal Music Podcast at the beginning of the year. It
was an idea that I have had for a while. I’m really blessed to
be able to call a lot of the pioneers of the scene friends, so I
thought; why not get them on a call and chat nonsense! It
seems to be the sort of thing that people want, as the
Youtube numbers are really healthy! I’ve got absolutely
loads of artists, promoters, artist managers and DJ’s lined up
for a chin flap! So far, we just released the 7th episode and
have had people like Acerbic, MarAxe, D.A.V.E. The
Drummer and Michaela join me on the show. It’s fun man. I
love talking as most that know me know so it’s just a natural
extension for my lip flapping!
In terms of my own music, I’ve got some nice stuff
on contract for the year but I’m turning most of my new
material out on Mechanikal.
Describe your style right this second.
I’ve only got one mode man! Solid, driving,
16th note percussive party music! Having the break
away from the scene was such a tonic for me. I felt
like I was starting to turn music out like a sausage
factory. Instead of making 7-10 tracks a week and not
being 100% happy with them, I got out of the studio
and went to parties. I spent time on dancefloors which, if
I’m honest, I didn’t really do all that much before. It’s
amazing what being in a rave to enjoy it instead of working
does for your inspiration. I nailed how it was I wanted the
music to translate. I take weeks on E.P.s now. It might get
finished in a few days but I force myself to sit with it now.
The difference in terms of the appreciation I have for my
own records now is huge. I’m really happy with what’s
coming from my studio now.
But they have always been so much fun. Plus; it’s the law
that all DJ’s must have had bookings with empty dancefloors
isn’t it?
Best is also a hard one as I have loved every
minute of DJing. The biggest was Boomtown Festival. That
was amazing. Ayako Mori, D.A.V.E. The Drummer and myself
hosted the Hydrauli” takeover in what was quite possibly the
hottest marquee on earth! Didn’t stop it getting filled
though.
Of course, the Hydraulix parties are always
amazing. It’s like a family reunion in the green room. And of
course, I couldn’t go without mentioning the Collide parties.
Every single one I’ve played has been so special.
Tell us something interesting about
yourself?
Alright. I live with ten cats! No crap! We thought it
would be a good idea to let our two breed. Let’s just say, it
got out of control! Word to the wise! Neuter your cats
people!!
What’s the best piece of advice you
would give to any newcomer trying
to get into the world of Techno or
dance music in general?
Oh, this one is easy and not nearly enough people
understand the importance of this. Forget being the most
technical producer or DJ. Instead; put everything you have
into building real, meaningful relationships in the industry. If
your goal is to get a release on Drumcode before you’ve
even begun building proper relationships with your peers and
the people you are producing music for, then you may find
the wait is a long one.
If you build a network of people that you genuinely
care about and the relationship isn’t built on what that
person can do for your career, then the big name
connections, agents and promoters will soon come. The
underground scene is a very organic one. If you are genuine,
the rest just happens.
As for producers; one of the most crucial things you
can ever prioritise when writing any kind of music is to lead
with a story. Forget mix balancing, bus summing, EQing or
mastering. That comes over time, through experience and
good quality education.
If you don’t know how to tell a story, you will just
fall into the void of all the other thousands of releases that
get sent to labels each week. Understanding proper
phrasing, movement, creating emotion through tension and
release and then putting it all together to tell a story that
translates to a dance floor is what will put you out in front.
What were the best and worst sets
or gigs you’ve ever played?
Haha! Honestly, I haven’t really had what you’d call
a bad gig…yet! I’ve turned up to empty dancefloors, sure.
52 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

What thing really annoys you about
the music scene at the moment?
Disingenuous and trends that get set by the market
makers. This aint EDM! It’s underground techno! No cake
throwing here! Or at least, I’m yet to see one.
Being genuine gets you into my circle. I can’t stand it when
the master plan involves a massive lack of integrity. Be cool
and enjoy the many amazing, genuine people around you.
Luckily, there are so many more of those people than the
wronguns.
And as for the trends thing; I’ve actually got no
problem with trends. I think they are a natural evolution. But
the digital revolution changed the landscape for every single
artist on the planet. And now, there is a level of playing the
digital game that gets dictated by the major players in
music. But when those players decide to install a sound that
already has a home within major platforms over a perfectly
functioning sub genre, leaving that sub genre without a
place in which to thrive. That’s about my limit on patience
really. I’m not losing sleep over it though. I just stay in
my lane!
What is your favorite burger and
what’s your tipple of choice?
Got to give all the love to the FIVE GUYS! Never has
a burger brought me such joy! I used to be T-Total believe it
or not, but then I found Kraken rum! I drink far too much of
it.
You’re stranded on a desert Island
with a single record player and a fat
sound system, what 5 albums are
you playing.
Easy!! Machine Head – Burn my Eyes. I bought it
the day it was released in 1994. One of the greatest metal
albums of all time. They did a live studio recording which is
on Spotify. Honestly; put it next to the original studio album
and you’d be hard pushed to work out which one is which.
Note perfect! Incredible musicians.
Proper storytelling journey.
Hybrid – I Choose Noise. I’m a massive classical
music fan. One of my greatest loves is the amalgamation of
Orchestra and electronic music. Hybrid are the go too boys
for that. Fully worth a listen.
Dr Dre – 2001. Need I explain why this is on the
bag? The production alone is enough to make any producer
drop their dinner plate on the floor with amazement. Then
you got every hip hop artist that was ever worth listening to
in support. Just a quality piece of art.
DJ Shadow – Endtroducing. Absolutely essential
man. I need it more than food. Plus, the drum edits in
‘Building Steam with a grain of Salt’ are probably the reason
why I love the perc patterns so much in my own music! not
the best produced album in the world, but the story!!!! It’s
there man!
Rush – Moving Pictures. Bloody legends. R.I.P
Purty! We miss your chops man! I regularly watch ‘I Love
you Man’ just so I can watch the Rush scene!
Finally, In your opinion what does the
future of Techno hold?
The underground looks so good right now.
There are artists out there that are doing exceptional
things for the underground currently. Carl Shorts, A.P.,
MarAxe, Acerbic, Balrog, DAVE The Drummer. They are
all contributing an energy and vibe that mean the lovers of
the underground sound can rest, safe in the knowledge that
techno isn’t going anywhere.
There are more, obviously. So many more. In fact,
the quality seems to be getting better and better.
Also got to show love to our little superstar in the
making – DJ Pulsar! 12 years of age and already has played
bigger shows than the majority of UK DJs emerging in the
scene! Incredible little man!
Great answers Mike, all the best to you and your music
for the future. I’ll be seeing you at Collide Summer
Gathering in June my friend!
Sasha – Airdrawndagger. I can’t tell you how much
I adore this album. I actually need to put it on after writing
this. The entire album from start to finish is just a vibe man.
" I’ve only got one mode man! Solid, driving, 16th note
percussive party music! Having the break away from the
scene was such a tonic for me. I felt like I was starting to turn
music out like a sausage factory. Instead of making 7-10 tracks
a week and not being 100% happy with them, I got out of the
studio and went to parties "

featurearticle
____________
Words LOUK
_________________________________
Connect https://facebook.com/loukcompulzion
Hi all! When lockdown hit in 2020, many had to stay in and
couldn't work. Thankfully due to the nature of my work, I
could work from home, but this is also where my studio was
which had been put into use producing solo music, or
engineering & co-writing/producing with friends. For some
periods where lockdowns happened, everything changed,
and for all of us who had to stay in and also those who were
furloughed and couldn't work, I put a list of resources online
for many free VSTs, software, guides and music tools, for
those who had free time, were wanting to learn music
production and didn't have very much money.
I wrote part one of this guide in the previous issue of Zone,
and here is the second edition. If you followed all the advice
in the first issue, you should by now have a decent
keyboard, mouse, a high spec computer, some hard drive
space, an audio interface, some monitor speakers and
stands, and some headphones. You should also have a
structured folder system and if you were wise, and paid
attention, a copy of a recent issue of Computer Music
Magazine to benefit from the awesome free plug in library
that comes with it to give you a massive head start.
54 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

Your Environment
The very first thing you would like to ensure are your
speakers are set up and positioned correctly. I talked about
this last month and gave a link to do so, however your room
might also have issues that will interfere when you produce.
For me, my most recent studio space (which is now my
Daughter's bedroom), was ridiculously bass heavy. I didn't
realise it at first but when testing mixes in different
environments, it really highlighted where my tracks needed
more bass, as I was always turning it down to compensate
here and as a result made for mixdowns needing more bass/
low end.
A very useful investment/tool for this if you have the
budget (and I know the article is called making music on a
budget!) is Sonarworks SoundID (https://
www.sonarworks.com/soundid-reference). This is a wonderful
bit of kit that you can place a microphone in the middle of your
room and it lets you know the response from over 30
measuremeants and gives you an EQ reading of your room, so
you can see where the areas are really heavy and lacking. It
then stores this as a preset and corrects it, that you can run in
your sequencer/DAW and have a true response of how your
mix should sound on speaker systems with a flat response.
There is a wonderful Oscilloscope plugin called Schulz
Audio's Oszillo's Mega Scope (https://schulz.audio/products/
oszillos-mega-scope/), which is currently at £69. This is also a
very beneficial tool no matter what sequencer you use, due to
the fact that you can place this on any audio or instrument
channel and you can visually see the impact of that channel on
your overall mix, highlighting which parts/colours are too loud
or too quiet in certain areas. This was a very much
unexpected and needed lifeline and I cover it in detail in my
reviews this month. Both this and Sonarworks/SoundID come
with a free trial so are worth trying before you consider
purchasing.
Next are a couple of free tools, first up is Voxengo's
Correlometer (https://www.voxengo.com/product/
correlometer/). This is a VST plugin, more information about
how to install that is in the below section. Correlometer is
great for showing the phase alignment of your tracks, and if a
track's signal is out of phase which will cause issues. A1
Stereo Control by Alex Hilton (https://a1audio.alexhilton.net/
a1stereocontrol) is another decent free tool, this gives you a
wide range of tools, to mute sections of your tracks, see how
they sound in mono and to enhance the stereo field. There is
also an option called Safe Bass where you can make anything
under a certain frequency mono, this is very useful for making
your kick and bass/low end sections of your mix warmer and
perceived to be tighter.
Finally is ASIO4All (https://asio4all.org/). This is a
universal windows audio driver, and has reduced latency and
helped reduce issues many times over the past 20+ years for
me making music. For a free tool it is highly worth a
download!
Setting Up Your Production Computer
I will try to keep this short, but an area I've hugely
neglected in making music since the turn of the millennium, is
I wish I backed up more music. Now I back up various
versions of projects, premasters, stems, samples, music files,
contracts, statements, the whole nine yards. I also keep
digital copies locally and on cloud storage.
I recommend purchasing a pro version of Dropbox
(https://www.dropbox.com/products?source=plans). This is a
cloud based storage platform that has been absolutely
phenomenal and offers you 2TB of space. This is far more
than I need for backing up but the transfer speeds and uptime
are second to none.
I would also recommend purchasing an external hard
drive, or my preferred choice a NAS Drive. There are very
suitable options but anything from 2-4TB upwards are your
best bet. You can transfer files anywhere and also keep back
ups of your dropbox folder. Since the last issue, box.co.uk has
sadly closed down but you can purchase NAS drives or external
hard drives in a caddy from Amazon or PC world.
Backing up is essential!
Installing Plugins & DAW Selection
If you followed the instructions last month, then
installing plugins should be a doddle. Depending on your PC
spec, I would recommend always sticking with the 64 Bit (and
where applicable specifically VST3 version) of plugins where
possible. These default into a folder on your computer if you
install the VST3 versions, however if this isn't an option then
install 64 bit versions in VST Plugins---->64 Bit directories as
specified last month.
If they are an older plug in that is only 32 Bit, then
this needs to go into VST Plugins---->32 Bit. Again each
plugin should go in it's own folder, so V-Station for instance I'd
install in 'VST Plugins\32 Bit\V-Station' or Spire I'd install in
'VST Plugins\64 Bit\Spire'
Once these are all installed, you can use JBridge to
conver the 32 bit plugins to 64 bit using a wrapper, and
installing them in the 64 bit Plugins directory. This is very
handy as some later sequencers/DAWs blacklist 32 bit plugins.
Now that I've covered that I am going to skim over
some DAWs of choice:
- Steinberg Cubase Pro 13 (https://www.steinberg.net/
cubase/) - I use this and have been using Cubase since 2000.
It is a very powerful tool and used by many artists such as
Ferry Corsten, Giuseppe Ottaviani and more. I would
recommend this, but it isn't an easy learn from scratch.
- Ableton Live (https://www.ableton.com/en/) - Again a very
powerful tool, used by many producers at the moment. If you
are starting from scratch I would recommend this as there is a
wealth of tutorials and Udemy courses out there.
- Renoise (https://www.renoise.com/) - This I use as well as
Cubase as it reminds me of my Amiga days learning how to
make music on trackers (I have a hardware Polyend Tracker
too). The sample manipulation is excellent. Working with
trackers is a really fun way to work and also there are free
versions.
There are others to mention too such as:
Fruity Loops / FL Studio (https://www.image-line.com/)
Studio One (https://www.presonus.com/en/studio-one.html)
Bitwig (https://www.bitwig.com/)
And there's a free sequencer on the Computer Music Magazine
Library I mentioned earlier too.
However I have been informed that I am holding up the
magazine by missing the deadline twice by writing this. Next
issue, more about plugins, samples and what to do once
you've finished a track!
Much love!
56 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

Wednesday 7 th
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MARBELLA ARENA
7 th - 11 th August 2024
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Software Hardware and Tech
Albums - Dance
// LOUK
Hello all. My name is Louk and I am a DJ / Producer from England. I have produced / written /co-produced / co-written /
engineered / remixed and ghost produced over 300 productions that have been released since 2003 of varying genres. After a four
year hiatus since my last reviews and articles in Zone as my youngest was born, and I scaled back lots of musical activity, I have
decided to return to the world of Journalism, covering all things music Software, hardware and tech (as well as giving advice). This
month I cover two VST instruments, a hardware synth and a sample pack!
10
9.5
9
PotenzaDSP Amigo (£59.90) - https://potenzadsp.com/amigo/
This was a welcome throwback and an instant addition to my studio! I started music production on an Amiga 500
using Octamed in my teens. I also tried the tracker ProTracker as well which this VST is based on the sample editor
of. If it wasn't for the Amiga and Octamed, I highly doubt I would be writing this now and having had the musical
history I've had so as soon as this was announced I was all over it. Imagine having an Amiga and add to that the
quintessential time stretch of the 90s from the Akai S950 and the results are magnificent. You can instantly be
recreating the effects of Goldie's 'Terminator' or timestretching vocals like on Double 99's Rip Groove in minutes. I
am not kidding when I say that ther there are some absolutely fucking mental VST instruments out there at the
moment and I seriously cannot believe that this is only a tenner. One thing I've always liked about trackers is the
ability to get ideas down very quickly and the possibilities on a budget are endless. Taking me straight back to the
old days with setable trigger points, instant reverse and groovy timestretch and lots of instantaneous playability, this
is fantastic. It is literally like having an Amiga 500 and an Akai S950 all linked up with full sample manipulation
techniques available in Cubase. No wonder the likes of Eats Everything, Pete Cannon, Groovin' In G, Bizzy B,
Stranjah and many more are all raving about it. I am not keen on giving 10/10 for most studio items but this fully
deserves it. Best £10 you will have spent in ages on anything musical.
Oszillos Megascope (£69) - https://schulz.audio/products/oszillos-mega-scope/
If you thought the fun ended there with the Amigo, you are very much mistaken. If you are very quick, you can get
this one for the discounted price of £69, and I mean this with the utmost shock as when I first saw the plugin when
Robin Tabor (Champion / Sleazy Deep / New State) shared a picture to his facebook, but Holy fuck! This literally is a
mindblowing bit of kit that I wish I discovered earlier as it would have solved many problems over the years of relying
solely on my ears for mixes. First, let's get into the logistics, this is a very powerful oscilloscope, but the added
advantage is you can place it on individual channels and group tracks and colour code them, and you can see in real
time waveforms of each coloured channel on screen. I was absolutely lost for words when I saw it and it definitely
caters for a much needed niche for any producer struggling to get their mixes on point. I showed this to my good
friend producer/DJ wizard Tim French who lives down the road when we had a studio jam together and we got it set
up on his Mac, and within minutes and a few colour codings, it highlighted some volume issues on why his latest track
wasn't kicking in with enough power. A few minutes later and levelling did a world of difference and his track
certainly has a lot more power. What more needs to be said than that? The proof is certainly in the pudding. An
absolutely vital bit of kit that will literally transform your mixes for the better. Seriously well done guys!
The Usual Suspects (DSP56300) Vavra - https://dsp56300.wordpress.com/vavra/
I've got to begin by saying fair play to the DSP56300/The Usual Suspects collective. I have been beta testing their
synths for quite a while and they have succesfully managed to emulate the Motorola DSP56300 chips with pin point
accuracy, enabling you to be able to have a VST version of hardware synths running on their firmware on your PC/
Mac/Linux devices. This has shocked many of the producers I know because if you were to say to any of us a few
years ago 'Yeah give it a few years and you'll be able to have a pretty much identical clone of your Access Virus C/
Virus TI or Waldorf XT & Micro Q on your computer, running off the same technology as the processors inside it', none
of us would have believed you. However, here we are in 2024 and they have not only managed this but have pretty
much made the hardware versions of all four synths totally redundant. I own an Access Virus Snow and end up using
the plug in more. The recording down and total recall are simply phenomenal, and although the hardware does sound
great and is hands on, the software versions are sublime. On the Vavra, you can instantly load any of the sounds of
the Micro Q and the late nineties charm is there in full force, with some wonderful synth leads, basses, pads and loads
of charisma. With only a slight little bit of effort getting the VST3 version to work compared to usual, and at the rock
bottom price of absolutely zilch, this (and their other synths) are welcome additions to any studio!
Stoneface & Terminal - Between Techno & Trance Vol 1 & 2 (From £5.95 - £34.95)
8
https://stoneface-terminal-fancy.sellfy.store/p/stoneface-and-terminal-between-techno-and-trance-vol12/
A bit of a double whammy this month, and rightly so, as both packs were recently released and on offer as a bundle
at the time of purchase. Stoneface & Terminal, the German duo of Henry Nix & Matthias Gierth, have been releasing
anthems for over twenty years. As well as being two absolutely awesome producers and DJs, with a very talented ear
for A&R (their FSOE Clandestine label is second to none), they are also a couple of very sound gentlemen as well.
Boasting a production history on some of the most notable labels in the trance world such as Perfecto, Skullduggery,
Euphonic, Monster Tunes, A State Of Trance, Flashover, Pure Trance and more as well as their releases as Gundamea
and Terminal East. The packs boast 200 sounds and bunch of presets for Xfer's Serum as well, and what you are
provided with is a very strong mixture of one shots, loops and presets ready to drop into your latest productions to
help give them a much more fuller sound. In particular the kicks and the drumloops are what stand out here and you
can hear the influence from the duo's love of techno and trance. Whilst I've not had chance to test the Serum presets
out yet, the samples alone are of a very decent standard and for the price of both packs it is an absolute bargain.
These are instantaneous samples and ready to give your tracks that extra shine and much needed inspiration.
58 Zone-magazine.eu

Buried Tresure
Albums - Dance
// Jay Dobie [Progressive House Classics]
With progressive house now entering its 32nd year its safe to say there's a multitude of tracks out there
just waiting to be discovered. Unlike today many tracks were far less accessible back in the early 90's. We
shared music via audio tape and generally you'd have no tracklist, identifying a track name could at times
turn into the hunt for the holy grail! These days things are much easier and with Buried Treasure we hope
to bring you some recommendations of obscure, rare and esoteric remixes and productions that may have
slipped under your prog radar. Happy Diggin!
Hysterix – Talk To Me (Sasha's Full Music Master) [Deconstruction]
If ever there was a track that encapsulated the early Renaissance sound I think this is it. A
perfect example of the remix being better than the original, a pop dance track that floated
around for about 4 years before Sasha and his team of Tom Frederikse and Gaetan
Schurrer pulled it apart and crafted what many agree is one of Sasha's finest remixes. To
get the longer 8.35 minute version you need to head for the Deconstruction promo with the
cat no HY2. For the most part if you buy another release you'll be getting the trimmed
down version with the fade out. Little known fact – The remix contains a sample of Big
Audio Dynamites 1991 single 'The Globe'!
https://www.discogs.com/release/494333-Hysterix-Talk-To-Me
Leftfield – Not Forgotten (Hard Hands Mix) [Outer Rhythm]
Its an obvious choice but no collection is complete without a copy of this. Leftfield originally
comprised of just Neil Barnes. Not Forgotten in its original form was a solo release on Outer
Rhythm and when the track broke big with the addition of the Hard Hands mix and Paul
Daley a number of contractual issues with Outer Rhythm developed and the duo were
unable to record, hence in the early days the number of remixes we saw and lack of original
material. Its fair to say the track was one of the first of a new crop of UK produced dance
releases that went on to be termed progressive house.
https://www.discogs.com/release/2225-LeftField-More-Than-I-Know-And-Not-Forgotten-Hard-Hands-
Feedback Max – Come Inside [White Label]
A white label that didn't really come with much information on release, it eventually turned
out to be a project for the eighties band Thompson Twins namely Tom Bailey and Alannah
Currie. To say the sound was completely different to previous releases from the band would
be an understatement. It did get a full release on WEA and went on to hold its own well in
numerous high profile record boxes. The Feedback Max project went on to remix a number
of tracks most notably F-Machine's Child Bride and another Thompson Twin's release Play
With Me Jane.
https://www.discogs.com/release/329986-Feedback-Max-feat-TT-Come-Inside
Sub Sub – Space Face [10 Records]
Firstly, yes its the same Sub Sub that had the chart hit with Ain't No Love but prior to that
we had Space Face, a Balearic Hacienda anthem that saw attention across the board. This
was very much a bedroom style production that was originally sold and distributed out of
the back of the band members cars. Breaks, piano and scratching put this at the top of the
'end of the night' list. The band went on to form The Doves after a studio fire and still
played Space Face as a final tune when playing live.
https://www.discogs.com/master/85124-Eric-Clapton-I-Get-Lost
ESSENTIALDANCEMUSIC 59

TUNES @ravereview
// Oldskool Albums Vinyl You - Dance Must Own PT2 // Jack Acid
Back in the day, acid house and rave music were often dismissed as being 'too loud' or 'too repetitive.' Critics argued that these genres lacked substance and
sophistication, missing out on the rich textures and intricate rhythms that defined them. I strongly disagreed with that in 1991, and my stance remains unchanged
today. To showcase the depth and diversity of early dance music, I've got another list of essential, obscure, uplifting old-skool records, trying to avoid the more
obvious choices. These tracks, in no particular order, span multiple genres, demonstrating how, in the hands of talented artists, early dance music could transcend
simple beats to become a thing of unparalleled beauty. Enjoy!
Li Kwan “Point Zero” Seka Records 1994
Ignore the A side. Trust me; it’s forgettable. Instead, carefully flip the wax over, place the needle in the groove, and
prepare to have electronic MDMA injected into your brain. Written and released during an era of some of the best
trance music ever produced, this track still stands out as one of the greatest melodic achievements of the '90s. This is
peerless, unequivocally stunning trance music, designed to make you close your eyes and whisk you away.
Throughout the decades that I have enjoyed great electronic music, this single track remains one of the greatest
examples of what dance music can achieve when placed in the right hands, with production values that remain as
impeccable today as they were back in 1995. Quite simply, this is like dying and going to heaven—and there are not
many tunes that can match the orgasmic brilliance of this, thirty years later.
UR (Mad Mike) - “The Final Frontier” [UR003 Records] 1993
Obscure and now very expensive on its original vinyl, this remains one of those tunes that propelled me into dance
music production. The genius of this fast-paced acid track lies in its simplicity: take one frantic, 808-led electro
beat and a simple squelching 303 bassline, and then… well, just wait for it. A very unexpected crescendo of dark,
haunting strings and accompanying sub-bass wash over your head, transporting you to other lands in the process.
This track must be played loudly in a dark club, with eyes closed for maximum effect. It’s not complicated, but it
just works. And those chords will be seared into your head by the end.
Together - “Hardcore Uproar” [FFRR Records] 1990
This is the kind of track that makes you think you’ve always known it. It’s a brilliantly infectious track, made up of
multiple melodic layers, offering something for everyone to enjoy. That's why it was used extensively on popular
sports and youth TV shows in the early 90s—it has a perfect balance of rhythm and tempo. Infectious bouncy
bassline? Yup. Haunting strings? Yeah. Absolutely scene-setting piano lines? Oh, yes indeed. This track was
released in the magical year of 1990, bridging the gap between the more chart-friendly sounds of HipHouse and
harder house music, laying the foundations for what would emerge a year later as Hardcore rave music. This track
just makes you smile, and that’s all it will ever do.
Alex Lee - “Take It” [MQR records] 1990
Whenever I listen to this, I start to tear up. The memories and emotions that I have inextricably tied to this track are
almost painful for me to recall now, with so many people I associate with it no longer with us. I don’t mean to be morbid:
this track was so singularly uplifting and infectious that it was featured everywhere—on every radio station I listened to,
every DJ mixtape I owned, and at every rave I went to. And for good reason, as it has one of the catchiest 'earworm' riffs
you’ll ever hear, leaving you humming it on repeat. Again, it graced that beautiful, transcendent year of 1990 when music
was maturing and came from Italy, which, at that time, was releasing hit after hit of unmatched House classics. It's a
happy, uplifting tune designed for the early part of the night when you're getting ready and planning your evening.
Someone, build me a time machine...
The Scientist - “The Bee” (base mix) [Kickin Records] 1990
While "The Bee" is a fairly well-known early breakbeat hardcore track, featured on various hardcore compilations
both historically and more recently, it came as a very unexpected but delightful surprise recently when I
discovered the stunningly well-made, originally composed Base Mix. The fact that I didn't realize this mix existed
until 2024 is quite breathtakingly ignorant; but setting that aside for a moment, it's well worth seeking out the
original pressing just for this mix. This is a standout hardcore tune because the genre isn’t typically known for
creating melodic and hauntingly beautiful records. However, this mix does just that, by minimizing the elements of
the original and overlaying them with a sublime piano.
Perplexer - “Acid Folk” (Low Speed Mix) [DEF records] 1994
This record, particularly the Low Speed mix, is one of those monumental acid tunes from the early '90s that changed my life the
moment I heard it. I can recall exactly where I was, what year it was, and who was with me—such was its impact then, and it remains
just as profound some thirty years later. It took me years to finally acquire a copy, and I blew my speaker tweeters the first time I
played it. At first glance, a hard techno acid track with a repetitive bagpipe sample might not seem all that impressive. However,
dismissing this track would be a significant mistake. This tune is an absolute powerhouse, featuring searing strings, a wildly twisted
and bubbly acid hook, robust 909 kicks, and 'that' bagpipe sample. If you allow yourself to get lost in this track for even a minute,
you'll discover that it perfectly melds 'screwface' pleasure with an irresistible urge to dance, creating a stunning combination of power
and emotion.
60 Zone-magazine.eu

TUNES
// STAFF PICK // Mark Neenan
Various Artists - Fox Bam Inc 002
10
Egebamyasi: Goldtooth
Scotland legend EGEBAMYASI is celebrating the 40th anniversary of making Acid influenced
music and he supplies new Scotland label FBI (Fox Bam Crew) with an exceptional slice of
of underground music which is a dynamic fusion of underground Scottish garage, old
school house, and acid. It's raw, gritty and has plenty of energy with mind-bending twists
of deep bassline acid, the shuffling percussive rhythms, syncopated hi-hats, snares and
irregular beats make this one stand out for sure. Add to that some grimey male vocals and
sexy female vox and this is a quality festival banger, that will certainly turn heads!
Foxtrot vs Ma Bla: Deep Down Inside
Foxtrot vs Ma Bla Present a powerhouse collaboration from a Scottish-Polish production
duo. This underground track is an explosive 303-laden acid banger. Featuring the iconic
'deep down inside' sample, this track has relentless acid lines, pulsating rhythms, and crisp
groove fuelled beats. I don't know much about these guys but you can see they get their
influences from the likes of Mr Gasmask, D.A.V.E. The Drummer and Ceephax Acid Crew to
name a few. The track was produced solely on hardware and the quality shines through.
This is one of those tracks that can be dropped in a variety of different genres of sets and
will evoke a great reaction I'm sure! Another track I can see myself rinsing over the
summer!
bRz vs Stije: ISCO
The final track on the EP is by another duo I've sadly not come across. But this is sheer
madness. It's a 13 minute long hardware jam of hard quirky 4x4 Electronica that definitely
draws influences from hardcore, electro, and techno.
It's a crazy journey (and has quite a pacey BPM, 150 I'll hazard a guess at) that's intense
and very very unpredictable. It's full of driving beats and intricate, off-kilter rhythms, it
builds and drops in the right places, has cool broken beat fills and lots of insane synth
lines. You really need to hear this! Hopefully if I'm brave enough I'll include this in a few
festival sets this summer too!
https://www.facebook.com/FoxBam.inc
https://redbox-records.eu
62 ZONE-MAGAZINE.EU

DJ CHARTS - issue 040 2024
Paul Sawyer [UK] [Krafted] [House / Trance]
1. Siskin – Are We Dreaming (Paul Sawyer Remix) [Black Hole Recordings]
2. Allan McLoud – I Decided [Landscapes Music]
3. Avoure – Serenity [Biome Recordings]
4. Zy Khan, MeowWow – Native Sun [Krafted Underground]
5. Pyramido – Shandi [Krafted Underground]
6. Dougal Fox – Leap of Faith [Ray of Light]
7. Snirco & Millero – Sweet Moment (Camelphat Remix) [When Stars Align]
8. Far Distance & Lorenzo Turco – Chaos [Beatfreak Recordings]
9. Volaris – Hypnosis (ZAC Remix) [HORIZN]
10. BT & Shing Nakamura – Lifeforce [Monstercat]
11. The Beloved – Sweet Harmony (Collective States Remix) [White]
Amber Leigh Melby [USA] [Trance]
1. Torsten Stenzel, York - Interstellar (Cornfield Chase York's Back In Time
(Extended Mix) [Black Hole Recordings]
2. Don Paolo - Serenissima [Autektone Records]
3. Clap Codex, D72 - Take Control (Extended Mix) [Armada Captivating]
4. Mitodi Hristov, Anna Tur - Subliminal [Set About]
5. Gabriel & Dresden - Kinetic Cinema (Extended Mix) [Anjuna Beats]
6. Kos:mo - Switch [1605]
7. David Forbes - Breakout (Extended Mix) [Aria]
8. Paul Denton - Chime (Extended Mix) [Subculture]
9. J.O'Callaghan/Joint Operations Centre - Timelapse (Ext Mix) [Subculture]
10. Allen Watts, Awaken - Abstrakt (Extended Mix) [High Voltage]
Probably Shouldn’t [UK] [Disco / House]
1. AC Soul Symphony – I want to see you dance (Art of Tones remix) – Z
Records
2. Da Lukas – Supergood – Groove Culture
3. Harleatz – Hello My Love – Lisztomania Records
4. Vauafunk – Club Mokambo – Whoopee Records
5. C. Da Afro – All Over Again – Basement Disco
6. Bondax – Journey (feat Mysie) – Future Disco
7. FSQ – Frek Out For Fitness – Soul Clap Records
8. Fran Deeper – Space Disco – Spa In Disco
9. Tom Landers – Falling Down – Orangemachine
10. Ken@Work – Saxaphoonic Boogie – Hive Label
Mark Neenan [UK] [Techno] [Filth Infatuated]
1. Apaull - Depths (John Selway’s Bottom Feeder Remix) [Furnace Room
Records]
2. PTTRNRCRRNT - Data 1 [Materia 81]
3. Acerbic – Rave Hero (Skirra remix) [Mechanikal]
4. Med!c & JGarrett – Tension [Filth Infatuated]
5. Pest Control – Rattler [SKUXX]
6. Hooraa – Ruthless Dom (Jerome Baker Remix)
7. SP1 – WRK (Steve Redhead Remix) [Arkham Audio]
8. Mascon – Cabernet (Sunil Sharpe remix) [Snork Enterprises]
9. Sticknezz – Techno Upstart (The Degenerate Remix) [Filth Infatuated]
10. Oscar Escapa & Linear Phase - Geometric Accuracy [Planet Rhythm]
DJ Samer [USA] [Pangea] [House/Progressive]
LOUK [UK] [Dance] [Zone Magazine] [Retro Chart]
1. Edmondson - Willows [all my thoughts]
2. Jelly For The Babies, Gav Easby & Phonic Youth - Back to You
(dub.format Remix) [inU]
3. Alfonso Muchacho - You and I (Extended Mix) [Above The Storm]
4. thebassmonkey - Enceladus (Nomad In The Dark/S.Vogt Rmxs) [Pangea]
5. Zuccasam - Here We Go (Four Candles Remix) [Nightcolours]
6. Antix - Peace of My'nd [Vapour Recordings]
7. Deeparture - The Eye (Extended Mix) [Quantum Feels]
8. Floormagnet - Nocturnal (Original Mix) [FM Recordings]
9. Volaris - Hypnosis (ZAC Remix) [HORIZN]
10. BT & Shingo Nakamura - Lifeforce (Extended Mix) [Monstercat]
Gez Varley [UK] [LFO / G-Man] [Techno]
1. A4 (ES) - Strobe Crystal Red [Evade Music Records]
2. MarAxe - Hypnotism [Jeton Records]
3. Sacro - Alexa Strange [WR028 records]
4. G-MAN - Quo Vadis [GMR records]
5. Mal Hombre - Exoplanets [Seclusion Records]
6. Slam - Wave expansions [Soma Records]
7. Dave Vincent - New Weapons [Soma Records]
8. Diego Oroquiteta - Vaguada Costera [Soma records]
9. Milo Raad - Hidden Agenda [Soma Records]
10. Arnaud Le Taxier - Elements EP [Soma records]
1. Out Of Order - Tears [White Label]
2. Fast Floor - Plight Of The Innovators [Smooth]
3. Control DC - Ritmo Dell Diavolo (Ritmo Diaboloco Remix) [Dance Opera]
4. Datura - Yerba Del Diablo (Paye Mix) [Trance]
5. 20 Hurts - Hornz [Sound Entity]
6. Atomic Brain - Atomic Brain [S.T.D]
7. Force Mass Motion - V.N.E [Rabbit City]
8. The Prodigy - Full Throttle [XL]
9. Q-Tex - Corruption [Evolution]
10. Generator - Belgium Calling / Narcomaniac [White Label]
Jay Dobie [UK] [Progressive House Classics Blog]
1. Hybrid - Remixes & Additional Production [Distinctive]
2. Sasha – Fabric 99 [Fabric]
3. AGH – Yummy [Skyway]
4. The Grid – Crystal Clear [Virgin]
5. Inner City - Hallelujah 92 (Leftfield Mixes) [Ten]
6. Lee Coombs – Perfecto Breaks [Perfecto]
7. D:Ream – Unforgiven (Leftfield Mixes) [Warner Music]
8. CJ Bolland – The Fourth Sign [R&S]
9. Quivver – Saxy lady [A&M]
10. Dollshead – Its Over Its Under (BIR Mix) [MCA]

https://www.discogs.com/seller/Redbox-Vinyl-Shop/profile
Paul Newhouse [ESP] [House/Techno][Zone/Redbox]
Sammy Dean [UK] [A Very Important House Party] [Dance]
1. Magnus - Joi (Extended Mix) [Armada Music]
2. Mason Flint - In The Underground (Extended Mix) [Exceed]
3. Mind Of Us - Ghost In The Mist [PROGNOSIS]
4. Last 2 Standing - The Return [Pro B Tech Music]
5. F.Ferrara & V.Jackson - Raindrops (Qubiko Ext) [King Street Sounds]
6. Zed White - Sol De Verano / The Call [Prognosis]
7. Bondaruk,Jaspe - Chord Maquina [Frontman Promotions]
8. Enceladus ft. Nomad in the Dark (Seth Vogt Remix) [Pangea Recordings]
9. The Unborn Child - Asking For Help [Wrong Theory]
10. KÖNI & Touzani feat. Lizwi - Inqola (Extended Mix) [Nite Grooves]
Pulsar [UK] [Techno/Hard Dance] [Hard Trance Europe]
1. 12 inch thumpers - Pump It Up [12 inch Thumpers]
2. BICEP - Glue (Rialians On Earth Remix [ACOR HT Rework]
3. Basswell - Screechmaster [Promo]
4. Tony De Vit - The Dawn [Tidy Trax]
5. Jones & Stephenson - First rebirth [Bonzai Records]
6. Joe Longbottom - Bassline [Shock Records]
7. Tom Parr - Delusions [Vicious Circle]
8. Lee Haslam - The Power [Tidy Trax]
9. South Stylers - Phwor [Future Records]
10. Ophidian - Summer Storm Rave (To The Past remix) [Thunderdome]
Frank Düffel [Ger] [VanditRecords] [Trance]
1. Dusky - Proto Spoon [17 Steps]
2. Marc van Linden meets Cosmic Baby - Loops Of Infinity [Cosmic Future]
3. HI-LO & Space 92 - Genesis [Hilomatic]
4. Francesco Sambero - Bada [Scorchin` Rec.]
5. Ronski Speed - TriSolaris [FSOE]
6. Darren Farrow - The 45 (Instrumental Mix) [Hooj Choons]
7. Christian Cambas - Remember The Future [Autektone Rec.]
8. Frank Dueffel - A Summer Fairytale [Vandit Rec.]
9. Tomcraft - Rude Place [Black Hole Rec.]
10. Paul van Dyk & Sue McLaren - Love Is Enough (SHINE Mix) [Vandit]
D4mian Smith [Spain] [20adm.com]
1. Torah stream - Pascal Kleiman [Bigfoot Records]
2. Love me a lot - Sozze [Sinosoude Records]
3. Specimen 01 - Valter Goncalo [Tekno4life Records]
4. Rawtime - Alex Vigo & Sandro Martins [Tekno4life Records]
5. Dancing on the moon - Astral nights [Records Group]
6. El Sontano de Jerry - Jerry Dandrige [Geometrical Records]
7. Dablitz - Valdritz Ferraro [Modus Vivendi Records]
8. El grand imperio codra 2 - D4MAIN Smith & Jerry Dandrige [Tekno4life]
9. Limbo - Ismael Rivas - [Freegrant Records]
10. Raw mental disorder - Inaki Villasante [Underground Road Records]
Anthony Pappa [AUS] [TMRW] [Prog House / Trance]
1. Frankey & Sandrino & Charlotte Riby - Memories [Innervisions]
2. Sasha & Super Flu - Astra (Sasha Daydream Mix) [Last Night On Earth]
3. Levi David & Abigail Bailey - A Better Place [Selador]
4. Yourr - Higher Self [Urge To Dance]
5. Frankey & Sandrino - Blue Flash [Innervisions]
6. Hardt Antoine - La Mosca [Kompakt]
7. Enamour & Paraleven - Rune [Rose Avenue Records]
8. QuiQui - Let There Be Light (J.Stevens Acid Test Rmx) [Dreaming Awake] 7. Ben Khlifa - Double Sektion [Soma]
9. Renato Cohen - Diaba [White Label]
10. Leftfield - Melt (Four Candles Bootleg) [White Label]
1. Sammy Dean – The Reflex [Cleveland City]
2. Cassimm – Say Yeah [Toolroom]
3. Definite Grooves – Love Belongs to Me [Cleveland City]
4. Ms Worthy – Vogue 1990 [He.She.They]
5. Castion – Feel it Ya [Toolroom]
6. David Penn / OFFAIAH – Satisfied [Toolroom]
7. R.Clark / H.Luv – This is my Life (Bontan remix) [Nothing Else Matters]
8. Dillon Franics / Ship Wreck - Whole Lotta Drugs [Armada Music]
9. DJ Flipside / Patrick Wayne / DJ ThreeJay – Breakin [Dubstar Recordings]
10. Jamiroquai – Space Cowboy (Michael Gray’s good vibe zone) [Sultra]
Terry Hobbs [Spain] [What the house] [Soulful / House]
1. Beatsbyhand, R.Ray - Say Yes (Jimpster Ext) [Stay True Sounds]
2. Anna-Marie Johnson, MarkDean - Waiting For Your Love (MarkDean
Visions Extended Remix) [Raising Records]
3. D.Ferrer x Kasango ft D.Wright - Church Lady (Ext Mix) [King Street]
4. Khenya - Jarana [Ulu Records]
5. Pat Bedeau ft Hannah Khemoh - The Last Dance [Bedfunk Records]
6. Eran Hersh x Kasango-Ascension [Insomniac Records]
7. Brother James - I Know That There's Love Here [Raising Records]
8. N.W.N - Lift Your Soul [Panthera Limited]
9. Deepstar, Donna Allen - Sugar (R.Earnshaw Ext Rmx) [Soulfuric Deep]
10. Jamiroquai - Space Cowboy (M.Gray's Good Vibe Zone Ext) [Sultra]
SONAS [UK] [Techno / Prog House / Electronica]
1. Thommo – Rhythmic Echoes [Likeminded Music]
2. Blotho – Art And People – (Mpathy remix) [Steyoyoke]
3. Gabriel I & Rawbach – Lost Sense [Balance]
4. Marc DePulse – Phenomena [JEAHMON!]
5. Whitesquare – Ephemeral Eyes [Permanent Vacation]
6. Ritz – Tomorrow is today’s dream (Lo-fi mix) [Piston Recordings]
7. Blue Dietrich – Dusk Flowers [Polypytch]
8. CENKK - &techno – [BAU_HAUS]
9. Pablo Asturizaga – Sirenas – Supermatic
10. Mark Zowie feat Chillipunk – We Call Na [Likeminded Music]
Pascal Kleiman [France] [Big Foot Records] [Dance]
1. Nobody - Re/mind [Calamar Records]
2. Tarantela - Alphadog [Diynamic]
3. Midnight Zone - Digitalism [Diynamic]
4. Outline - Yost Koen [Diynamic]
5. Controlled Demolition - Highlite [Diynamic]
6. Destination - Max Styler [Repopulate Mars]
7. Icaro (Absolute Neon Energy Remix) [Another Rhythm]
8. Timbalero - Chinonegro [Bandidos]
9. Louder Than A Bomb (Disfreq Remix) [Turbo Recordings]
10. The Art Of Walking On Your Own - Boy North [Of Unsound Mind]
Skirra [UK] [Hydraulix] [Techno / Hard Techno]
1. Acerbic - Spitfire [Arkham Audio]
2. A.P. - Reset By Robots [Refined Format]
3. Tassid - Quantum Entanglement [Perc Trax]
4. MarAxe - Zulu (D.A.V.E. The Drummer Remix) [Hydraulix]
5. LeE Ann Roberts - Come With Me [Now now]
6. Acerbic - Rave Hero [Mechanikal]
8. MarAxe - Groove Messiah [Mechanikal]
9. Andy BSK - Coma [Transfiguration Recordings]
10. Acerbic - XXX [Triple A - Acid Artists in Action]

TUNES
// HOUSE & TECHNO // John Ricketts
TOP TUNE //
10
Mark Zowie ft Chillipunk – We Call Na [Likeminded Music]
UK-based label builds its already impressive initial batch of releases. With some of which gaining
support from industry heavyweights such as David Guetta, they bring an artist who has been
featured in Zone on numerous occasions. Carlisle-based producer, vocalist and DJ Mark Zowie has
been busy with his Novablood outfit on their new album but found time to team up with vocalist
Chillipunk for the summer banger “We Call Na”. Deep dubby bass sits under the rolling tech house
drums, with a snare roll marching through the middle. Bit-crushed synths are matched with a
simple but effective piano riff, all perfectly matched with Chillipunk’s call to action vocals. One for
the summer terraces this one, and another great step forward for Likeminded.
8
https://www.beatport.com/release/we-call-na/4537536
Pire Meilleur – Crossing Cycles [Discoteca]
A 4-track EP full of energy and movement here from Pire Meilleur. Each track has bags of
energy with opener “P-Square” having a late 90s trance feel to it. “Ground Trust” builds on
this, with its rolling arp bassline and Goa trance elements thrown in there. “Pendulum” keeps
this momentum going, bringing in an acid techno feel to things. Finally, Mabel brings his
deep house vibes to remix “Ground Trust”. A great late night EP
https://17steps.bandcamp.com/album/sampler-01-floor-to-floor-10-years-of-17-steps
RECOMMENDED // Marsh – Warrior [Anjunadeep]
9
An inspiring and uplifting single from British progressive house producer Tom Marshall. It’s
no wonder the mighty Anjunadeep picked this one up. Starting with a deep and almost
foreboding 303 bassline, the track builds as layers of synths are added to eventually launch
into a rolling and brooding wall of sound, before breaking down to an emotional release.
Inspired by Marshall’s friends fight against leukaemia, it’s a fitting tribute to friendship and
the fight against adversity. A proper journey, and one the dancefloor will happily go on you
with.
https://marshmusician.bandcamp.com/album/warrior
9
Furkan Cinar, Blotho – Steyoyoke Black Reconstructed by MPathy [Steyoyoke]
MPathy takes on 2 of Setyoyoke’s hits and delivers an enlightening and compelling EP. Their remix style
very much is in the vein of taking things completely apart, and rebuilding them, as you want to. Furkan
Cinar’s “Believe In The Light” is given the deep techno treatment, slowly building in the first half, before a
huge drop and then an even bigger release at the drop. Blotho’s “Art And People” is another example of
the slow build, with elements growing and being added to constantly before digital bleeps build up to
release the tension. A brilliant example of creative remixing.
https://steyoyoke.bandcamp.com/album/steyoyoke-black-reconstructed-by-mpathy-2
9
Durante - Ancora (Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs remix) [Anjunadeep]
Anjunadeep regular Durante returns to the label with Durante, with Totally Enourmous Extinct Dinosaurs
(TEED) on the remix. Taking Durante’s raw rhythms and tonal melodies of the original, TEED weaves his
own unique style into the mix to bring something unique. A deep rolling bassline is accompanied by a
delicate arpeggio, giving bags of energy whilst not being over powering. Vocal stabs are filtered and
drenched in reverb before the pads of the breakdown give you a breather before the groove kicks in
again. A great summer track, perfect for an outdoor party or a 3am dark sweaty room.
https://turtle.bandcamp.com/album/acts-of-union-ep
64 zone-magazine.eu

O U T N O W
P Y R A M I D O
S H A N D I

TUNES
Albums - Dance
Albums - Dance
// TECHNO & HARD TECHNO // Mark Neenan
TOP TUNE //
10
PTTRNRCRRNT - Discrete Data EP [Materia 81]
Fresh from remixing Oliver Roseman and appearing on labels such as Speedy J’s STOOR and
Pfirter’s MindTrip, PTTRNRCRRNT delivers his second release on Marco Bailey’s Materia imprint and
wow, can this guy produce! Four exquisite tracks are on offer. Data 4 is a clanking tough tribal
affair. Data 3 is a deeper cut, with de tuned synth stabs. Data 2 is a punchy roller with a growling
bassline. All three of these are highly playable but my pick is Data 1. What a f**king tune, I can’t
get enough of it. A tough thumping kick drum leads the way whilst creeping in from the start is
what can only be described as an angry aeronautical sounding flanged synth bass that is just
beautiful. On top of this you have some eerie sounding synth drones and crisp punchy percussion.
There is so much movement in this track and that angry flanged bass really hypnotises you. Must
listen!
9
8
10
https://www.beatport.com/es/release/discrete-data-ep/4513755
Pest Control - Vamanos EP [SKUXX 019]
Pest Control (aka Rats On Acid / Andy Newbury) ditches the acid and drops onto Tassid’s ace Skuxx label. It sounds like Andy had
a naked jelly fight with his machines and subsequently this was the outcome, three hard and heavy warehouse bangers of epic
proportions! ‘Vamanos’ is pure filth with a thumping great kick drum, tidy searing synth work and cool vocal samples ‘Holy crap,
how much poison are you using?’. ‘Rattler’ does exactly that, it rattles, it clanks, it bloody well bangs! Hard energetic techno at its
finest. ‘Wonky Tonk’ is next and the breakdown on this is crazy! It’s a bit deeper this compared to the others but still hard as
nails, with Ian Industrial tinge, you really must check these out. Last but not least label boss and all round bad man Tassid
remixes ‘Vamanos’ in his trademark crisp energetic style, packed full of evolving synth work and crazy edits that only Jamie knows
how. No wonder he is now a mainstay in Perc’s sets. I’ve always been a big fan of Andy’s work, and I’m liking this new direction
he’s gone in. What I really want to know is, with his fascination of ‘Rats’ and his alter ego ‘Pest Control’ is Andy Newbery the real
Banksy? Anyway, this latest Skuxx is wicked, go and grab a copy at Bandcamp now!!
https://skuxxrecords.bandcamp.com/album/vamanos-ep
RECOMMENDED - Acerbic - Rave Hero - [Mechanikal 065]
Mike’s (Skirra) ace Mechanikal label has made a comeback. He’s teamed up with Carl Shorts and had a kind of re brand. Acerbic is the new
(ish) alias of Ant / Chicago Loop, a bad ass producer and DJ with heavy links to the SUF collective (Remember his massive Powertools label
from back in the day!) I have followed and been a huge fan of Ant’s work for years and his Acerbic project fresh from releases on Stay Up
Forever and Resilient is some next level gear, let me tell you! The original of ‘Rave Hero’ is a fat slab of energetic modern driving techno. A
huge kick and sub combo are joined by slick, crystal clear psychedelic sounds that are then entwined by a crazy lead metallic Guitarlike synth
which is wicked. The breakdown treats us to some breakbeats, old school rave stabs and vox before the Guitar synth is twisted to maximum
before re-entry! Booom! ‘Machine System Translation’ is track two and has a rather growling low end and sexy female vocals from the off
‘Systems, analysis, from the machine’ is repeated, tight marching percussion is followed by crisp claps that move this track along lovely. Add
to the equation lots of crazy synth zaps, bleeps and a robotic sounding bass in the break and you’re onto a winner here! Label boss and
fellow Collide resident Skirra remixes ‘Rave Hero’ in his own unique style and let me tell you, this is a HUGE remix! Slightly darker and
tougher than the original, he really twists that metallic Guitarlike synth up and adds in lots of clever edits, fills and drum rolls. Total slammer
of a remix this is!
https://www.beatport.com/es/release/rave-hero/4510299
Oscar Escapa & Linear Phase - Technology Is Twisting My Mind EP [Planet Rhythm]
10
Spanish producers Oscar Escapa and Linear Phase supply Planet Rhythm with five heavy tracks of grade A Techno!
‘Slave Of Groove’ has a lush de tuned metallic synth. ‘Raw Sensation’ is a deeper rather progressive slice of intelligent
techno. ‘Fractal Encription’ has a huge clanking kick drum and is full of bleepy synth action. ‘Geometric Accuracy’ is
probably my favourite, dark, driving and heavy percussive techno at its finest. Finally title track ‘Technology Is Twisting
My Mind’ is going to get some big plays I can see. It has a male vocal throughout telling a story about losing reality and
digital technology taking over. It’s a proper roller and very well made with lots of clever effects and edits, but I’m not
sure if I like it or not. Think this maybe a marmite tune. You either love it or hate it. I’m undecided yet. But this whole EP
as always from Planet Rhythm is ace, check it out!
https://www.junodownload.com/products/oscar-escapa-linear-technology-is-twisting-my-mind/6586538-02/
Apaull - Depths (John Selway’s Bottom Feeder Remix) [Furnace Room Records]
I must admit, I got a bit confused when I received this promo. I thought it was Portuguese Hard Groove legend A. Paul,
but in fact this Apaull is a Dutch- Canadian producer and owner of Furnace Room Records. The original EP of this came
out in early 2023 apparently, all that has ben sent here is a new John Selway remix, and my god is it a beauty! It has
everything this. Tough solid kick drums, deep warm evolving synth bassline that is bloody epic! Crisp percussion
movements and chimes and it even manages to squeeze in cow bells, robotic voices (Sounds like it says Civilisation, or
Zombie nation…) and an eerie female ghost like vox. You really must listen to this LOUD. It has it all going on. Will be
rinsing this (albeit pitched up) over the Summer at various festivals that’s for sure! Selway is a bad man!
https://www.beatport.com/es/release/depths-john-selway-bottom-feeder-remix-edit/4511506
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Raho - Hypnotic Sequense EP [OFF 311]
I always keep an eye on OFF record promos, not all of there releases grab me but every know and then
one will jump out. Well this one caught my attention after the first listen with a deep rumbling bassline and
very nice modern hypnotic sinewave synth on title track ‘Hypnotic Sequence’. This carries it along and
beeps and changes and infects your mind along with warm bass drones for extra measure. Track two ‘ My
Half’ up’s the BPM and the energy for a hard futuristic thumper that wouldn’t sound amiss on Dax J’s
Monnom Black label. Great work! Final track ‘No Response’ is similar in ilk to track two and is packed full of
energy, cool rhythms and an added acid line for the 303 lovers. Three very playable tracks in this cool
package.
https://www.junodownload.com/products/raho-hypnotic-sequence/6619142-02/
Mascon - Tongestaltung [Snork Enterprises]
Four originals here from Mascon on quirky German label Snork Enterprises, plus a killer remix ‘Cabernet’ is
deep tough purist techno, packed full of raw hypnotic rhythms and clever percussion. ‘Secret Service’
follows in the same vein, a bit deeper and more eerie with nice shuffling hats carrying it along. ‘Nonsens’ is
my least favourite of the four, whilst my pic of the originals is ‘Sumpfralle’ which is the most energetic of
mason’s tracks, clanking beats, busy shuffling perc, this packs a hell of a punch! Class. The remix on the
EP is by legendary Irish artist Sunil Sharpe and as you would expect, it is sheer quality. Bouncy, Jacking
and packed full of techno groove, like his sets this really gets you dancing like a mad man with a big
cheesy grin on your face. Wonky techno banger! Check it out!
https://snorkenterprises.bandcamp.com/album/tongemisch
SP1 - WRK [Arkham Audio]
Big fan of the Arkham Audio label and they continue their fine form with this EP from Rising Belgian artist SP1. There are
four originals and six (6) remixes on offer here. My pic of the originals is WRK2, a dark and broody tune with such a
rumbling deep low end, intricate percussive patterns, squelchy bass synth zaps and stabs and a wooden rattling
instrument that evolves and spins out. Love it. All of SP1’s originals are excellently produced, heavy, but crisp and punchy
in all the right places. Defiantly someone to look out for! The package includes some really good remixes from Klint,
Stanislav Tolkachev, OctOgn, and Cri Du Coeur & Erratum, but the two that will do most damage for me are the Energetic
and galloping J.Blofeld remix which is full of hypnotic synth action and the Steve Redhead remix which is a heavy loopy
hardgroove Monster of a track! Lovely stuff!
https://criducoeurarkhamaudio.bandcamp.com/album/wrk-ep
Gunjack - Mfunk Trax Volume 1 [Resilient Recordings]
This just came in last minute before the deadline. But I must get this in! LA’s ‘Gunjack’ continues to build
on his reputation, delivering 3 tracks that are gritty, hypnotic, and packed full of underground acid! Brian,
known for his intense and raw techno productions, has consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre
and these 3 tracks on Eddie Santini’s wicked Resilient imprint are three of his best IMO. ‘MDUB9’ Is first up.
Deeper and rolling compared to the others, crips hats and lovely atmospherics carry this nicely along
accompanied with a repetitive vox for good measure. The second track ‘Acid City’ shifts gears slightly,
incorporating a darker bassline and exquisite acid lines. Quite old school sounding this! My favourite of the
EP is ‘Acidf4k’ which is packed full of raw and aggressive energy from the start. The acid synths are front
and centre, cutting through the mix with a squelchy intensity, and there is a strong focus on the low end.
The acid lines are gritty and unrefined, which makes this sound so raw and ‘Avin it!’ Great release this is,
you must check it out.
https://www.beatport.com/release/mfunk-trax-volume-1/4528229
Norus & DJ Whipr Snipr - Gravitational Attraction [Nerang Recordings]
This also came in late, although I believe this is out now. But I needed to mention this excellent EP of
Electro and Electronica. Norus & DJ Whipr Snipr are new to me, but I will defiantly be keeping an eye out
for them. You can tell the lads are heavily influenced by the innovative sounds of Aphex Twin and the
legendary Warp Records (No wonder it jumped out at me!) There are five tracks on offer full of heavy
electro breakbeats, futuristic vibes, glitchy effects, beautiful atmospherics and for my favourite track
‘Invisible Commission’ there is a lush acid line which just tops it off. This track literally sounds like it’s a
linking track between Selected Ambient Works and Syro! (High praise indeed) If electronica is your thing,
check this out!
https://nerangrecordings4211.bandcamp.com/album/nrng015-n-rus-dj-whipr-snipr-gravitational-attraction
ESSENTIALDANCEMUSIC 67

OUT NOW
featuring WALLY LOPEZ, robert babicz,
paul sawyer, simon sinfield, allies for
everyone, meowwow, zy kahn, shemsu &
gilbert lezana, sonia scott, elle jae,
MOSHIC