Oh hey. Check out these six damn fine releases. It’s safe to say these are can’t-miss. Can’t. Miss.
Kraków Loves Adana – Midnight Memories – A Collection Of Demo Recordings
The Germany-based musicians are among the most exciting new additions to the Italians Do It Better family. They recently released a demo EP featuring not only an early version of their exquisite “Young Again” single, but also two cuts that didn’t make it on their upcoming IDIB album. “Dumb Dog” and “Tough Love” are beautifully crafted gems, so I can only imagine what the cuts that did end up on the album sound like. Wow. We shall find out soon enough.
Anoraak – Gang EP
I previously introduced you to the title cut featuring Sarah Maison, but the whole EP is a damn fine serving of delectable disco. In addition to the title cut, there are killer remixes by Blackjoy and The Populists and a buoyant dance number called “Body Language.” I’m loving the more nu-disco-leaning path Anoraak has embarked on over the past year. Out now via Partyfine.
(ICYMI: An in-depth interview with Anoraak about his influential Nightdrive With You. Also, check out his nu-disco fave “Panarea.”)
Toucan Sounds – Compilation Volume One
Speaking of nu-disco, French Horn Rebellion’s Brooklyn-based label, Toucan Sounds, just released its first label comp — and it makes for a fantastic time. It features a killer cut from Vehlinggo fave Lefti, along with gems from Yuksek, Jean Tonique, JD Samson, Patterns and more. Each cut brings a vital, uplifting energy we need right now. Get the vinyl.
Rina Sawayama – “Comme Des Garçons”
Usually the more mainstream they are, the later to the party I am. That’s the case with Rina Sawayama, who mines the Aughts for pop gems. I’m wholly enthralled by this number — it’s got a sticky synthy groove, a catchy hook, and Sawayama’s engaging vocals. Can’t lose with this one.
Dana Jean Phoenix & Powernerd – Megawave
On the collaborative album Megawave, DJP and Powernerd have created a genre of the same name that blends the best of their abilities: DJP’s siren vox and knack for hooky songwriting and Powernerd’s everlastingly energetic production and unbridled shredding. Highlights are “Megawave,” which I’ve previously covered, “New Technology” and the Daft Punk-laden “Living Rent Free.” I enjoy that Toronto-based DJP and Vienna-based Powernerd have opted to mix up the synthwave genre a bit. It’s been getting stale, but these two have always found ways to do something fresh with their work. I’m glad they’re doing that work together now.
Betamaxx – “Disco Dreamgirl (FM Attack Remix)”
What’s there to say? This thing kills. FM Attack and Betamaxx should just do a full collab album already. Buy it here.
(Editor’s Note: As established in this post, the One-Liners column is a concise but meaningful way to highlight Vehlinggo-recommended releases. It’s not exactly weekly, but it can be. Entries are almost never one line, but they could be. Check out the most recent One-Liners post.)
