Well, despite Mayan doomsday prophesies, we made it through 2012 and are ready to bring you even more music for your dancing pleasure in 2013. Today, we present to you our first guestmix of the year, the 17th installment of our Guestmix Series, a mix from DC producer/DJ Bilal Arshad, AKA Funkamentalist.
Bilal Arshad is from the deep suburbs of Washington, DC and has recently rebranded himself with the moniker, Funkdamentalist. His productions focus on the fundamentals of House music and tend to trend towards the deeper end of the House spectrum. Starting at the end of 2012 into early 2013, Funkdamentalist has 4 EPs scheduled to be released on respected labels like i!Records, Headset Recordings, and Jesus Pablo and Di Riviera's Something Different Records. I first saw him DJ when he opened for Pleasurekraft at U Street Music Hall this past December. His set was incredible and set the tone for what was one of the most raucous nights of the year at our favorite club.
As of late, Bilal has been busy working on new productions and remixes, launching a record label, and playing DJ gigs around the city. His most recent release, "One" came out on January 9th on Headset Records. You can preview it below or purchase it here. In addition, Bilal has teamed up with Sam Khosh (AKA Soul Sway) to launch their new imprint "Silence in Metropolis." Expect some big things and great material to come out of this label in the coming years. Bilal and Sam also have begun teaming up as a duo known as Two McFlys. Together, they put together classic and contemporary sounds which draw influence from Deep, Techno, Garage, Detroit to Elecronica. Definitely keep an eye out for them in 2013.
This guestmix from Funkdamentalist clocks in at one second over an hour and features some incredible tracks as well as world premiere exclusive material. It also includes two original tracks that he produced, and it will give you a good sense of his style as a DJ. I thoroughly enjoyed every track in this mix, so its hard to pick out a couple to mention as highlights. More noteworthy, is how this mix flows from one track to the next, maintaining a deep, yet dancey theme.
This guestmix went straight onto my Ipod after my first listen and we really hope you enjoy it as well. Big thanks to Funkdamentalist for taking the time to put it together for DPC. Check out the interview while you listen to the mix (bottom of the page):
Today, we are proud to present the 15th installment of the DPC Guestmix Series, a mix prepared by Chas Bronz. Chas Bronz is the solo project of Boston based producer/DJ Tate Masimore. Apart from his solo project, Chas teams up with Shawn Mac in Casual Encounters, owns an audio mastering company, and recently started his own record label, Trutalk Records.
Chas's debut solo EP, Late Night Chas, released on November 22 on Spirit Soul Music. It features four original tracks produced by Chas and can be purchased for digital download here. The EP kicks off with "Star Crossed Lovers," a great slow-mo track with a thick groove and some sexy vocals. The next track, "Smile for Stiles" picks up the tempo of the EP (to around 120 beats per minute) and combines a great beat with piano, xylophone, horns, and even some flute, to create a complex, yet very danceable song. The third track, "Renegades of New Age Funk" feat. Suspence, may be my favorite on this album. We got an advance listen to it when Sare Havlicek included it in his DPC Guestmix in July. I loved the sequenced synthesizer bass line then, and I still love it now. The final track on the album, which he worked on with Rhythm Operator, is called "Take the Hit." This Acid House style track really takes things into the "late night" realm, where time ceases to exist and things start to transcend into the world of weird. Overall, its a great EP, and I highly recommend checking it out. If you like what you hear in the previews below, you can purchase it digitally at Beatport or Juno.
We first introduced you to Chas in the post about the Casual Encounters DPC Guestmix. However, this guestmix will give you a better idea of his personal musical tastes and style as a solo artist. It has a total of 11 tracks and clocks in just under an hour long. The thing I really enjoy about this mix is it strikes an excellent balance of older tracks that you may not have heard of and newer tracks that you already know and love. It kicks off with an Acid House throwback, KC Flightt's "Planet E (Acid Drop Mix)." Without giving away too much about the mix, I will mention that my favorite part comes in the middle, particularly when Chas drops NiCe7's Bassline Soldiers. Anyway, this mix is one that will expand your musical horizons and make you want to get up and dance. Check out the interview we did with Chas below.
It's been a long time, and I shouldn't have left you. Whether you're braving the I-95 corridor or waiting for the person in front of you to grasp the subtleties of airport security instructions, here's some tunes to shake you out of your tryptophan coma.
Noir Music Podcast November 2012: Tapesh
We start off this special Thanksgiving edition of the Round Up with an artist whose popularity has skyrocketed in the past few months - Germany's own Tapesh. Releasing off heavyweight labels like Defected, Noir, ALiVE, and Suara, Tapesh has garnered a sterling reputation for inventive, playful production that pulls from all corners of the musical spectrum. His taste for samples - from 90's hip-hop to funk and R&B - is second to none, making Tapesh's originals and remixes instantly accessibile and dangerously addictive. He's found kindred spirits lately in the form of Bunny Tiger's Sharam Jey and LouLou Records boss Kolombo. Their collaborations together have been shaking dance floors for the past couple of months with no signs of slowing down. This mix for Noir Music dips between heavy, industrial tracks and bouncy, upbeat house, punctuated by a fondness for hi-hat and percussive breakdowns. Head-bopping material for sure.
It’s GuestMix time again folks! And DPC is very excited to share this with one with you all. We have had some especially strong mixes from some of our favorite DJ’s lately. Today’s installment is certainly no different. It comes by way of Jackson (a.k.a Dr. Tobias Funke of Pnut Butter and Jams).
Jackson is a native to the District -Automatic bonus points-. He’s fellow electronic music writer and aficionado over at PB&J, and not a bad DJ as you will come to know. Jackson has only been jockeying discs for a handful of years, but has a been very busy at his craft. His popular and well executed “Swimsuit” monthly series of mixes has garnered him well deserved attention. The series ranges from Funk to NuDisco, and even dives into Deep House. You can -and very well should- check out the “Swimsuit” series below:
Volume 7 was a particular favorite of mine and was full of sexy summertime vibes.
Jackson does a bit of producing on the side as well. Take listen to this reinterpretation of Anna Lunoe & Touch Sensitive’s “Real Talk.” It’s a quirky yet deep take on the summer anthem.
Before we dive into the GuestMix he has put together for us. Let’s see if we can’t get to know the man a little better.
Jackson took a moment to let DPC pick his brain...
Today's installment of our guest mix series is one that we are all thrilled to dish out to our readers and dance party lovers. As we have said before, our guest mix series allow us to showcase and feature DJs and producers who we truly enjoy, and our 12th one to date is no different. Queen B (Bethany Lokken, of Orchard Lounge), put together a 2.5 hour mix, "The Howling", that takes listeners on a journey to be enjoyed in any given circumstance. I've listened to the mix while getting ready to go out, baking cookies, and commuting to work. I can enjoy mixes in any capacity, but take interest in those that are longer, build and can be enjoyed in any type of setting. The mix features tracks from artists such as El Tefx A, Danny Daze, Maceo Plex, and The Revenge. So you can take a venture as to how this mix will play out ;) Spoiler alert: deep, techy with a side of weird. Just the way I enjoy my mixes.
I should also mention that I have a personal investment with this particular guest mix because Orchard Lounge - the DJ collective of Spencer Lokken, Bethany Lokken, and Ben Silver - has played a huge role in my "dance party history." Having seen them play sets and after parties for the last four years in New York, Richmond, Colorado, a house party complete with petting zoo in Maryland (seriously) and Mexico, I became enamored with the tracks they were dropping and found myself scouring the Internet for more mixes, tracks and artists who they showcased in their sets. Orchard Lounge has played at Camp Bisco for the last 8 years and have kept bodies moving in between sets - something Bethany told me they thought was important at a show - keeping the momentum going the entire time. As DJs, Orchard Lounge have successfully exposed music that "jam band" audiences may or may not be familiar with and I think that is pretty damn awesome. A personal favorite set of mine is from The Vagabond in Miami, FL, where they threw down a 4.5 hour set with tracks ranging from The Swiss to A-Trak and samples from the comedy, "Stepbrothers."I wasn't there for it in 2009, but live vicariously through it on SoundCloud at least once a week.
In this week's Round Up: Romania, Noir Music, throwing things, drippings and more Diynamic! Yay!
David August - Diynamic Neon Promo Mix
Surprise! Diynamic being featured again. You
guys better get used to it, because I don’t think they’re going anywhere.
Hailing from Berlin, David August is another example of Diynamic’s knack for
scooping up young, insanely talented producers and giving them a platform to
shine from. It’s always fun for me (and I hope for ya’ll) to listen to a
mix that truly expresses an artist’s musical voice and character. The inside of
David August’s head is a stormy place, and this mix is unequivocally David
August. Unlike the majority of promo mixes, this one is borderline meditative –
August has no problem slowing down the tempo and letting his tracks fully
breathe. There’s a haunting, almost remorseful, edgeto a good deal of his selections. Even some
of the more upbeat tracks are underpinned with a melancholy bassline or vocal
track. One gets the sense that every single one was picked with a purpose in
mind, and August’s ability to convey that through his mixing is a testament to
the youngster’s skill. Draw the blinds for this one.
After thousands of pageviews, 236 posts, and 1 Year...
It started with an email chain between a group of dance music obsessed, whiskey loving friends. In this past year, The Dance Party Chronicles has grown and evolved in ways that we had not imagined. More than just a blog, we'd like to think of ourselves as a community. One in which to share and experience the music, on and off the dance floor, we love so dearly.
They don't dance. I just made that up. Is that offensive? I'm not sure if it is or not, cause I literally just picked the first inanimate object that popped into my head. I'm sorry I'm not sorry if I offended anyone who just read that. Although, if I did offend you, I can only guess that you either have this weird obsession with lamps, or you're a hipster. I digress....
Welcome to The Dance Party Chronicles. Why? Because we like to dance! (Sorry if you don't)
That was an excerpt from DPC’s and Becca’s inaugural posts. You have to love the quirky rant about the lack of dancing she and I witnessed at a show. It concluded with a mix from The Beat Broker, and laid down the foundation for the blog. During the rest of August 2011, we pumped out 56 posts. Sometimes 3 or 4 a day, of DJ mix highlights, artist spotlights, a few more rants, and some infamous Identity Festival coverage. But it was the first guestmix we featured that really got things moving.
Our long time homie, Matt “Mr. Bonkerz" Lipsit, -or “The Bonk Man” for the initiated- donated his smooth-as-a-baby's bum mixing and methodical track selection for our first guestmix. It is still one of my personal favorites to this day. The huge response set the tone. Ever since, we have had mixes and interviews from so many of our favorite artists. Drop Out Orchestra, Ichisan, and Only Children to name a few. If you haven’t, check out who has been contributing to our Summer Series. These mixes have been hotter than the season in D.C. itself!
All sorts of game has been stepped up at DPC; content and otherwise. The crew started with just Becca and myself, and is now 6 in all. Three of us make up the resident DJs, but all six contributing to the blog and dance parties on and off the decks: Tyler, our first addition and resident dance machine. Will, the musical renaissance man. Matt, our in-house disco dictator. And our most recent addition, Sam, our dance music guru.
Tyler, Will, Matt, Becca, Rashad
That’s the crew, but it’s only part of the picture. We’re just the medium. It’s you all, the readers, the tweeters, the Facebookers, the Soundclouders, the DJs, the producers, the publicist, fellow bloggers, the venues, and the dance partiers that complete the portrait. So as much as this post is to acknowledge a milestone for us, it is just as much a “Thank You” to all of you. The feedback and support we have received has been a constant motivation for us to do our best possible to provide content to satisfy all your dance party needs.
Speaking of, if you’re in the dance party mood this evening, join us at Science Club (Washington, D.C.) for some celebrating, debauchery, and dancing! DPC Resident duo: Brothers From Another Planet (William DeVon and myself, Remote CTRL) will be throwing down selections inspired by the sounds of Wolf + Lamb. The party is called Intergalactic Funk, and is the newest of our now 3 monthly DPC presented events. Come say hello to the crew! We would all love to exchange some high-fives and drinks, and then, of course, have a dance. Sound good?!
Here’s a Wolf + Lamb set to get you on the right level of weird before tonight’s festivities.
Whether you celebrate with us tonight or not, stick around. Year one was full of surprises for us with the amount support we’ve received. Going forward, we would like to return the favor. Stay tuned. Make sure your dancing shoes have been broken in and your legs are properly stretched as the dance party continues...
Thank You & Much Love!
Your continued source for all things dance party related...
Looking for a new mix to get you through the day? Need some
inspiration to get up and get moving this weekend? More importantly, need more
Dance Party? Starting this week, DPC will aim to highlight and disseminate some
of our favorite mixtapes, podcasts, and EP releases from across the wide world of
EDM, including our own backyard. Your personal curator for this intergalactic
journey is new staff writer Sam Warren, a NY-to-D.C. transplant who listens to
far too much of this stuff to be healthy. Each week, Sam will break down a
handful of mixes in the hope that, somehow, somewhere, a booty will be shaken
due to his efforts.
After having a music blog for the last 10 months, I have finally come to the realization that it is a constant work in progress. And I'd be lying if I said it wasn't the easiest thing to grasp a hold of. I don't know fancy music terms. I work hard to write reviews. I can offer advice about genres or what dance parties to listen to; but if you haven't been able to tell already - everything is pretty much a dance party to me. We love that you come back each day (err, week) to read about a new mix, and after this past weekend, it was great to meet some friendly faces who love and enjoy disco dance parties just as much as us. Virtual hugs to all.
Here at DPC, of all the genres of music we listen to, I do not think we touch upon deep house nearly enough. It's perfect to jam to as you're getting some work done, baking some cupcakes, or driving for long periods of time. The thing I love about deep house are those heavy-hitting beats with an ambient vibe that makes you get lost within yourself. Add in some sexy vocals and I'm totally in on that gravy train.
Lucky for us, a great deep house mix was released yesterday by way of Connecticut native, ConnetICON. Spinning dark disco, down-tempo and deep house, he boasts a pretty phenomenal bio as he's been around the festival scene that us closet-hippies love, and played alongside disco duo, Tiger & Woods, Down-tempo/Trip-hop DJ/Producer, Emancipator, and the Chicago DJ collective, Orchard Lounge.
The mix, "Day Late And a Collar Short," is 63 minutes of straight up deep, sexy house. After giving a quick scan of the track list before diving in, I got ridiculously excited. As the mix kicked in and I started the journey, I realized the transitions were pretty spot on as my head nodding didn't skip a beat as Domyan's remix of "Milscot" melted perfectly into Maya Jane Cole's sultry remix of "She's on Fire". Along with some familiar tracks, there were some I became obsessed with, like LDM's "Timeless" track that you hear around the 15:40 mark that went into Maceo Plex's, "Sex Appeal" - a track that couldn't have a better name with its serious ambient vibe coupled with that familiar bass beat, and sexy vocals. I die.
As the mix goes on, under the radar, Brussels producer, DC Salas' track, "Peru" comes in at 32:40. I was slightly intrigued when I saw this initially because I've never seen him on a mix before, but I'm familiar with his music and this track, "Peru" is gorgeous; really nice bass fused with some synth effects and faded vocals. I'd have to say my favorite part of the entire mix was when the "Knight Rider" theme materialized at 45:09; it's pretty much the best intro theme EVER and whenever a band covers it or a DJ places it in their mix, I get stupid happy. The mix closes with my favorite track from John Talabot's most recent album, Fin, "So will be now." I can only describe it as pure genius with dreamy samples allowing you to get lost in your thoughts and enjoy the moment.
Don't be left out or a day late(r), and give this mix a listen. And if you enjoyed the mix, check out ConnetICON's Facebook or follow him on SoundCloud to stay up to date with his mixes, upcoming dates, and more!
All alone - Milscot (Domyan remix)
Shes on fire - Bo Saris (MJC remix)
Moustache - La Stache
Timeless - LDM
Sex Appeal - Maceo Plex
Make it good- Tennis (Larry heard remix)
August Lovers - Dosem
Peru - Dc salas
Saved - Harold Heath (John Daly remix)
Night Track - Sasha
Go with the flow - Climbers
Knight rider theme
Trust issues - The weekend (Manik Knight rework)
Pumpin - Lula Circus (pezzner remix)
Will be gone - Dave DK
So will be now - John Talabot
There is something about a mix that can tell a story that I can't help but bask in. It's one of the beautiful things about music, and something we can all relate to on a deeper level. 2011 was no cake-walk for me, and to say that music was something I held onto whenever I felt like I needed something is a huge understatement. Have you been there before? Is it creepy that I just told you something a little too personal? Errr, don't answer that. And please still be my friend.
Thankfully, 2012 has been nothing short of amazing, and I can also say the same about the 10th installment of our Guest Mix Series coming from Macoe Swett (Macoe), a lovely DJ, who hails from San Diego, California. I came across her mixes via SoundCloud and after listening to them and deciding that they were mixed very well, I started to comment on them like a mad woman. #sorryimnotsorrytheywerereallygood
Then I noticed she was from San Diego (!!!)
San Diego is one of the coolest places I've been to; between Sea World (there's beer there. There's beer there. THEY SERVE BEER THERE), visiting my brother and his wife (who live there currently), the weather (!!!), a Virginia Tech bar (BUB'S!) and knowing there are good DJs out there makes me want to transplant my life to the west coast, stat.
Macoe has been kind enough to put together "Winter Longs for Spring" for DPC and I can't gush enough about this deep house/house mix she provided. I've already listened to it three different times in less than 24 hours I liked it so much. I don't want to give away the entire mix, but at the 19 minute mark, Space Ranger's remix of Bonar's Bradberry's track, "You Were Away" dropped and I was completely entranced in the deep vibes and oh-so-relatable lyrics. And when The Drop Out Orchestra's Club Cut of Lou Teti's, "Get Away" at 36 minutes came on it all made sense.
And I loved every second of this mix. For serious. I've said it before, but I freaking love our Guest Mix Series and the variety that we've been able to provide and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do. Macoe was kind enough to answer some questions for DPC, so check out the interview below and give this mix a listen!
How did you get into DJing?
My then boyfriend, now husband, Marc Williams, taught me how to beat match about 13 years ago. However, I didn't really start building my own collection until three years ago, and was just a bedroom dj until a couple years ago. Marc was a great teacher and showed me just enough to get me started, while letting me figure out the rest on my own. We also play together under the name These Siamese. I am also thankful to have many close friends who are DJs and have been very supportive of me, including Mark Quark, Le Roux, DJ Duane, and Jon Doss just to name a few.
Who are your favorite artists and producers right now?
Right now, I'm really enjoying Space Ranger, Nobody's Hero, Whomadewho, the C90s, Cosmonauts, Tronik Youth, Lou Teti and Ilya Santana as well as many others. There's so much great stuff being put out right now. It's an exciting time to be involved in the electronic music industry.
What's your favorite dance move?
I'm not sure anything can beat the Chicken Noodle dance, although I never see it here on the west coast. There's some great street dancers in Korea and Japan as well. (This has nothing to do with the genres of music I play though.)
I know that you're from San Diego, Is there a large disco and house crowd in San Diego?
I'm actually from the east coast (moved here from Philly) but I've lived here for 12 years, so I do call San Diego my home these days. No, I wouldn't say there's a large crowd here but it's a good crowd. There's some exciting collaborations going on right now and it's been fun to watch it grow.
Do you find it was harder to get gigs or make a name for yourself because you're a female DJ?
No, if anything, I'd say it's easier because people tend to take notice when there's a female DJ on the decks. I really don't play up that angle; I don't want people to book me because I'm a girl. I want people to book me because they like my music. But if they happen to pay more attention because I'm female, then that's fine. I thought when I started playing out that everyone would be like "Just what we need, another dj..." but that hasn't been my experience at all. Both male and female DJs have been very receptive to me.
How would you describe your guest mix to DPC readers?
This mix is all about longing. Longing for love, longing for someone you've lost, longing for something you haven't found yet. It's kind of a universal emotion. Hence the name: Winter Longs for Spring.
Tracklisting Volta Cab - Curious Dreams (Original Mix) In Deep We Trust - Play with Me - Ilya Santana Remix Touch You Gently (Original Mix) - Art Department Bonar Bradberry - You Were Away (Space Ranger Hypno Remix) Appaloosa - The Day (We Fell in Love) - Ted & Francis Remix Nikko Gibler - Hide From No One (Original Mix) Lou Teti - Get Away (Drop Out Orchestra Club Cut) Whitest Boy Alive - Live on a Island - Nat Self Romance Edit Pillowtalk - Soft (Life and Death Remix)
Last Friday I had the best intentions of "taking it easy". I'm not sure what your definition of "taking it easy" is, but clearly I don't know the definition because this is just a small snapshot of the debauchery that ensued.
I think I heard the phrase, "$3.00 Natty Boh's", got really excited. I ended up waking up on Saturday morning with a (moderately) terrible hangover.
If you're wondering if you can "run" a hangover off, you can't - because about 2 miles in I was almost positive I was about to toss my cookies (errr, lazy girl quesadilla cause that's what I made when I got home at 2:30 the night before...what?) all over Connecticut Avenue. Which should really make you want to be my friend now if I hadn't convinced you otherwise yet.
So, I did what any normal person would do. Went home, laid in bed, and dreamt about a salted pretzel crusted peanut butter cheesecake with Nutella drizzle. Once I decided that making said cheesecake was completely out the window, I settled for some fluffy peanut butter chocolate chip cookies and crushed some pretzels to throw in the mix too.
There's something so relaxing and satisfying with baking some delicious, fluffy cookies while listening to some tunes. I know I am typically all about the disco dance parties, but sometimes you just need some deep house to bake to - it just makes sense. So, I threw on DJ Marmon's latest deep house mix, "Denaturation" and it was love at first play.
This is one of those times where I can brag because I'm friends with him through mutual friends and can say he is awesome and lots of fun to party with. Think: tequila shots and dance parties at like 4am in my living room. He's also got skills when it comes to DJing and I'm waiting for him to come back to DC because I'm dying for him to drop Poolside's "Do you Believe" track and transform it into a slow-mo, sexy dance party (hint hint).
At the 17:20 mark, Cajmere & Russoul's track, "Let's Dance" came on and I started getting really into my cookies. I'm not sure if you could imagine, but at this point I was definitely dancing around my kitchen and it was awesome. And then........ at the 30 minute mark I just about lost it because a remix of "Drop me a Line" came on, and it took me back to November when I was completely blown away by their live disco set at the 9:30 Club. I also had no idea there was a deep house remix (Mano Le Tough) of the track. #winning
I also loved the ambient vibe that the mix ended with which happened to be through Donkey Kong Country 2 (!!!) and composed by Dave Wise. Super melodic and a very fitting ending to a great mix.
Also. Since it's Friday, if you're looking for something to do in the DC'ish area, check out our event page where we have listed dance parties going on around our nation's capitol. If you wanna contribute or get in on this gravy train, shout us a holler at dpchronicles@gmail.com.
DJ Marmon - Denaturation by djmarmon Tracklist:
Ben Westbeech - Stronger
Jay Tripwire - The Sixteenth Floor (Jef K & Alex Murak Remix)
Robag Wruhme - Donnerkuppel
Cajmere & Russoul - Let's Dance
No Regular Play - Lookin' (Life and Death Remix)
Midnight Magic - Drop Me A Line (Mano Le Tough Remix)
9West - In Love
Ron Deacon feat. The Kat - Secret Garden
Terry Grant & Matthew Pusti - My Gun, The Sun (Deep Edit)
Donkey Kong Country 2 - Stickerbrush Symphony
Today is one of the first Monday's in F O R E V E R where I feel completely refreshed - you know - alive, awake, alert AND enthusiastic. You probably either: think that you've come to the wrong blog, OR: want to punch me in the face because you are feeling the exact opposite. Sorry I'm not sorry, but please don't punch me in the face.
This past weekend was totally a re-charge weekend after a few un-charging, alcohol-induced, dance party weekends. It may surprise you to hear that I like balance (hello, rarely exhibit self control when I go out). I like things nice. I like... well, perfection. So, I took some time off this weekend to do really fun things; laundry, a trip to the Newseum (!!!), casual music listening from the comfort of my bed, and coming into work on Sunday.
^ worst nightmare: lots of numbers. excel sheets. and things I probably don't understand.
Whenever conference time rolls around at my work, my alter-ego that loves whiskey and all things Jagermeister seems to go out the window and productive, responsible, balanced Becca comes out to play. On Friday, in the midst of stressing out completely (dramatic much?), I started a new mix by Speakerbot, "Lounging Like a Bot", and it was Just. What. I. Needed.
All freaking weekend.
I listened to it at my desk. In my room on Saturday while cleaning. On my way to work on Sunday. In my cubicle on Sunday with the speakers on full-blast, only to have a co-worker walk into the office, too, wondering where the music was coming from (woops).
Basically, I'm obsessed. I loved the guest mix he did for us, and this 60 minute deep house mix is no different. One of my favorite drops is around the 16 minute mark with an edit of a familiar song (I think?) that meshed some funky soulful vibes with deep house. That's baby making music right there, btw.
And holy 23 minutes in (!!!) We recognized the Marvin Gaye samples, but after consulting Speakerbot, it's confirmed the song I was obsessed with is Hectik Rivero's "I Feel Fine".
I'm more partial to the half-way mark and on because spoiler alert: HUGE dance parties, rowdiness, and head bobbing will occur. This only makes me more antsy and hopeful that a Speakerbot will grace DC with his presence, sooner rather than later! So, pop this in today, and get your week started right with this mix ;)
It's almost as if the Soundcloud and Dance Party Gods were looking down upon me after I published yesterday's post. And thank goodness for Soundcloud because I now have another new DJ that I can become obsessed with (!!!). Cue all my guy friend's groaning cause now I won't shut up about this one.
20 year old (!!!) David August is a house/deep house DJ/Producer from Berlin. As a child, August was a piano player and at the young age of 15, he began DJing. Only two years ago he released his first EP, and also has a residency at Diynamic's Club EGO. (source)
After looking at EGO's calendar of events - I find myself wanting to book a flight to Hamburg, Germany for some epic dance parties. Who wants to join me? More importantly, who wants to buy my plane ticket or sneak me in their suitcase?
August was the spotlight for Diynamic's Radioshow this past week, and did not disappoint. At numerous points I found myself backtracking to segues and peaks that were freaking amazing. And I'm not exaggerating either. Around the 8 minute mark "Supreme" by Doctor Dru & Adana Twins drops. Love the piano in it and it's simply soothing to me.
It really boggles my mind (probably out of slight jealousy) that people can actually put together tracks so seamlessly. Or seem to pick the right tracks that work and speak to people. I mean, don't mind me - I'm just your average Asian girl, I'll be over here...enjoying the music, dancing in the corner and taking some shots to the face while you're playing beautiful music.
The 17 minute marks Moullinex's happy song, "Sunflare", where I found myself singing along. And it starts to get going around 21 minutes as Slow Hands' track, "Kreuzberg Blues" hits which changes the tempo of the mix - and it is a w e s o m e. That's right, so awesome that it needed space in between it. Duh. I could go on and on about the different parts, but I will highlight the 37 minute mark which seems to be a favorite among the comments on Soundcloud. Me? I'm obsessed with it.
And if someone wants to find the song, I'm sure Rashad would be grateful because I was bugging him about it (via GChat) for about an hour yesterday as I kept asking him the difference between samples, edits, and music definitions I don't understand. I immediately recognized the sample which our friend, Mr. Bonkerz, has included in Volume 4 of his mixes. Rashad informed me it wasn't the same song - the track wasn't slowed down, and then explained musical lingo that I once again didn't understand (woops).
The mix rounds out nicely and another highlight of mine was at 48 minutes. Once it was over, it left me feeling a little sad. I hate and love when that happens because I want more! So I obliged my feelings and promptly listened to this mix 3 more times and decided this will now be the mix that I will be playing whenever people come over.
Sorry I'm not sorry but I'm pretty sure my taste in music is better - therefore I get to choose what goes on at all times. Though after taking one listen to this, I'm sure you wouldn't object to have this playing either.
PS - Does anyone else agree he is extremely good-looking? Because my hand is raised. PPS - Go Hokies! As you read this, I'm getting ready to head to Blacksburg for the first time in almost 2 years. Be happy for me, but also scared. Hello, Homecoming weekend full of awesome decisions. PPPS - What are you excited for this weekend?
Every so often you come across a mix that is nothing short of something special. I think DJ mixes often get written off or discredited as an expression of art. When it comes to live sets, the DJ can come prepared with set list and adjust the selections accordingly to fit the mood of crowd. With a recorded mix, it's a one shot deal. The DJ has to select and mix in such a way to keep you listening till the end, and hopefully hitting "repeat". Every DJ has their own style and technique. To keep me tuned, I want you tell me a story, capture a mood or vibe: Take me on a sonic journey. That's how you enthrall me.
This next mix in the Fresh'N'New Music series I am playing with this week comes from Alex Khomenko, a.k.a SPARKLESS. In this set, smooth and atmospheric, almost ambient at times, Deep House tracks come together seamlessly to capture and express the feeling of the "Last Sunny Days". Sparkless describes:
People - Wake up!
Last rays of the sun was replaced by the autumn melancholy. But that is no reason to be sad, it's so beautiful it's time, that sometimes takes your breath away. On this subject, my next mix.
Summer is over...but the barrage of hot mixes is not!
The C90's October Chart Mix brought some serious heat! There was a track in particular, Edit Murphy's "Mercy" that caught me off guard. It's a Deep Disco take on Marvin Gaye's "Mercy, Mercy Me", and it is done exceptionally well. I absolutely love the groovin' bassline, the funky twang of the guitar riff, the faint vocal harmonies, and the glitch effect added to the beat here and there, reminding you that this song has been contemporized. I had to rewind the mix a little to hear it again! Well after a bit of Soundcloud sleuthing, I came across Edit Murphy's page. Lucky for us, Edit Murphy has free EP available for download, entitled MoTown Edits Vol. 1:
Along with " Mercy", there is a super sexy House'd down take on Bill Wither's "Lovely Day" and another sexy RnB/Disco edit (not sure on the sample...you?)
"I Need More Please" was the feeling I was left with:
Well, Edit's got a Deep Disco/House mix (their first!) to hold us over until their upcoming release by way of Smoke N'Mirrors. One of tracks, "Brooklyn Lights" is included, so keep your ears open. This mix is deep and sexy, with massage oil slick mixing ;) Hopefully, this stuff is an indication of what's to come! Enjoy!
Tracklisting:
1. Daniel Wang - Like Some Dream (I Can't Stop Dreaming) [Rush Hour]
2. Motor City Drum Ensemble - L.O.V.E. [K7! Records]
3. Tornado Wallace - Whispering Twirl [Delusions Of Grandeur]
4. Clockwork - It's You Again [Hot Creations]
5. Francis Orchestra Inferno - Time For Tea [Wolf Music]
6. Fantastic Man - From Start To Scratch [Melbourne Deepcast]
7. Andy Ash - Dime Piece [Home Taping Is Killing Music]
8. Savile & Olin - Horizon [CD-R]
9. Lewie Day - Some Kind Of Man [Melbourne Deepcast]
10. Edit Murphy - Brooklyn Nights [Smoke N' Mirrors]
11. Nicholas - Where I've Been [Home Taping Is Killing Music]
12. Human Life - In It Together (Louie Fresco 4Play Vocal Mix) [Defected]
Do you guys remember me? I apologize that I've been off the grid lately, but I have this thing called a job, and apparently sometimes I need to do it. In case you've forgotten, I'm that Asian girl who used to post every day or two to the DPC. I really love dance parties, sweet confections, and whiskey. I also happen to love this next DJ who has been ever so generous in contributing to this month's Guest Mix.
In August, we brought you a mix from our RLF, Mr. Bonkerz. Today we have a guest mix from someone that has been on our radar this past summer - Speakerbot. We approached him from the early days of le blog, and he happily obliged. While I've never seen him live, I've enjoyed mixes and tracks he's shared online. One thing I love about Speakerbot is his sound - because it can't be pinpointed to one particular genre. As a listener, you can find him dropping anything from deep house to funk or nudisco at any given moment. It rules. Especially for someone like me who needs variety (read: I'm super ADD).
Speakerbot, Jersey-native Aashish Bansal, has been making quite the name for himself in the electronic music scene this past year. Last week, he dropped two new tracks that are a preview of The Speakerbot EP. I am obsessed with "I Dream in Ones and Zeros". And you should be too.
Speakerbot has been busy creating a name for himself; playing gigs in Philadelphia, New York City, roller disco's in New Jersey (Uhmmm, what the what?!), and been circulating in the festival scene as well.
Today he brings a deep house mix to the Dance Party Chronicles that is more than likely to get a head-nodding, foot-tapping, one-person dance party in your cubicle going this morning. Note to everyone: my favorite part (if I had to choose) was the 39 minute mark into 43 minutes which starts a funky dance party. Something that I really needed in my hotel room at 10:30 at night in New Orleans (party animal right here.) I highly suggest you put on your headphones and get your dance party started. Now.
Tracklisting: 1. Noir & Haze - Around (Solomun Vox Remix) 2. Cut Copy - Blink And You'll Miss A Revolution (A Chicken Lips Malfunction) 3. Phreek Plus One ft. Mr. White - Passion (DJ T Remix) 4. Genius Of Time - Houston We Have A Problem 5. Nicholas - When I Think About (Instrumental Mix) 6. PhonoKemi - Decompose (Original Mix) 7. Tom Budden - Someday (Original Mix) 8. Azari & III - Manic (Maceo Plex Remix) 9. Oliver S - Doin' Ya Thang (Original Mix) 10. Lance DeSardi - In The Midst (Bass Dub) 11. Vahagn - Relapse (Nick Chacona Remix) 12. Morten Sorensen - Burn Down (LPZ Remix)
I started looking at (godihaveahugebootproblemandimnotafraidtoadmitit) this.
And then maybe T H I S. So now I'm wishing I had some of this.
Hope you had a great weekend. DPC got chance to check out Volta Bureau at our favorite spot, U Street Music Hall. Eastman, Outputmesage and Micah Vellian threw down some DEEP House. It was a great night of music, dancing, and friends [among other debauchery] to say the very least.
Long weekend, but not quite long enough, I'm still in the mood for that deep house sound and vibe. So I was glad to see that Conor Bevan, London's "Debonair", put together a mix called "Voyager One". It's a sexy blend of deep disco/house tracks. The first half of the mix stays on the Disco side of things. There's some classic stuff like Stephanie Mills' "You Can't Run From My Love" along with some deep and synthy tracks. The Munk track marks the shift into House, as the mix takes turn for the sexier. Henrik Schwarz's Bside Remix of The Jackson Five's Dancing Machine is a House'd down homage to a disco classic. The remainder of the mix follows suit and finishes with LEB Harmony's spaced out "Feeling Love".
Sorry my last post didn't have a hot mix for you to jam to this morning. Here's one from Britain's Graeme Clarke (a.k.a The Revenge).
This "Throwing Shapes Mix" is sexy blend of deep house and disco. No tracklist, but I recognized a few that I really liked. A remix of Anthony Collins' "Don't Look Down Now" and the 6th Bourough Project's "Sometimes the Fool" to name a few. Around the 3/4 mark he drops some super funky old school disco then promply jumps back to deep house to close things out. This a great mix through and through. So have at it!
As of late, Bilal has been busy working on new productions and remixes, launching a record label, and playing DJ gigs around the city. His most recent release, "One" came out on January 9th on Headset Records. You can preview it below or purchase it here. In addition, Bilal has teamed up with Sam Khosh (AKA Soul Sway) to launch their new imprint "Silence in Metropolis." Expect some big things and great material to come out of this label in the coming years. Bilal and Sam also have begun teaming up as a duo known as Two McFlys. Together, they put together classic and contemporary sounds which draw influence from Deep, Techno, Garage, Detroit to Elecronica. Definitely keep an eye out for them in 2013. 
