Nitz
Plast

Picnic records deliver their most sonically enhanced edition so far with this exuberant offering from rising Italian star Shkedul. Each track features dominating elements that are quick to take the listener into a euphoric trance state . "Undisclosed", the opening track of the release hits hard and its progression builds up enigmatic tension with killer basslines and acid synths to match. "Serotonin Level" is the deepest of the selection and in many ways the most seductive. Hints of breaks and electro reign supreme throughout the track and are topped with an insatiable vocal that screams eat me. On the flip side, "Find Yourself" rightly so, commands its own side. Futuristic synths, addictive acid bass lines and a perfectly balanced structure enhance the dreamy hypothesis of the track and record as a whole.

New London-based label Plasticity Records hits the ground running with a hard-hitting, dancefloor-focused VA featuring four varied tracks, connected by a raw, propulsive sound thread running throughout.Kicking off the A side is established Barcelona-based duo Nulek & Roto with Eternal Space — a stuttering, pitch-black techno/electro piece featuring an ominous vocal that sends shivers down your spine. Rounding out this side is Study Nights by Uruguayan talent Flhez, leaning heavily into the country’s rich musical tradition with plenty of spooky synths and rough analogue textures.Over on the B side, Barcelona-based Romanian Mar.C delivers Not Normal — a tough-as-nails, EBM-tinged techno number that’s sure to get any dancefloor moving. Last up is the broken and decidedly wonky Nuclear Era from Lima-based Venezuelan purveyor of all things percussive and leftfield, Acid Charlie.

Maazn Records unveils its inaugural release "Lost in Transit” by Guzman & Terraflow. Inspired by the breadth of London's current sounds, this record gives a taste of their vision for the future.The A-side features label co-founder Terraflow infusing his signature style of old-school drums and intricate synth work. "Atomic" lays down a catchy bass riff that summons an ethereal feeling of the past, whilst "Totaled Larynx" takes a hypnotic turn, embellished with haunted melodies suited to the early hours of a certain pit in Norfolk. Guzman takes the wheel on the B-side, starting with the punchy, sleazed-out rhythms of “Neo (Trance Mix)”, steering the EP further into the depths of the peak-time dance floor. Finally, “Time Deprivation” details clever vocal sampling atop of an arsenal of dangerous waveforms - a fitting verdict that is guaranteed to set the audience into a bass-laden frenzy.These are no warmup tracks, play out at your own risk.

Picasso has been going from strength to strength in recent years and his debut on NorthSouth represents another side to his ever evolving sound. Opening up the EP is Robbie Growler, a tried and tested dancefloor ripper, drums with an infectious groove and THAT bassline, this ones destined for those big 3am moments. Next up is Superstylin’ Glidin’ - bouncier in nature, the arpeggiating bass and melodies have this one suited perfect for both earlier or later in the night when the crowd needs a little lift. On the flip side we open up with Bounce 2 It! Those familiar with Picasso’s sound of late may feel a strong affinity with this one, dubby, housey & hazy. The EP is rounded out with Sixth Sense, on a similar tip to the track before, this is one for those deeper moments, warm, lush pads and smoky groove - close your eyes and nod away!

Nothing but nice returns with the fifth slice in the series from co-head honcho James Andrew. Doing what he does best, the record showcases his distinct blend of house, tech house and garage with a bit of dubby deepness thrown in for good measure. Nicely!

Presenting the maiden voyage of Felon5 Records.