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Quantec: Unusual Signals

Quantec’s best work to date is a meticulously crafted album of Chain Reaction-style dub techno. more >>

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Frankie Knuckles Playlists

Frankie Knuckles began DJing in New York City in 1971. He and Larry Levan, of Paradise Garage fame, were best friends. In 1977 Knuckles moved to Chicago and started spinning at the Warehouse, where he became famous for his selection of soulful and funky disco, music that became known as “house.” more >>

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Ron Hardy Playlists

Lately I’ve been researching pre- and early-house, and there’s no better source than the playlists of Ron Hardy. (I’ll be posting Frankie Knuckles’ soon as well.) It seems that history is always viewed through the lens of whatever is currently en vogue, and to that end a great deal of attention has been paid to early rhythm tracks. Parsing through MP3s from the tapes of people who were actually there, however, there’s no escaping that house and techno are direct descendants of disco. more >>

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Deepchord: Vantage Isle Sessions

While I wasn’t blown away by the vinyl release of this a year ago, the CD version has grown on me, especially since it makes great driving music. The other day on an afternoon trip to Albuquerque, I cranked up these mixes, and the combination of road noise and puttering chords was perfect. more >>

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Kettel: Myam James Part 1

Kettel is one of the few electronic music makers to wear his heart on his sleeve. He isn’t afraid of sweet melody, and he has the confidence to mix old and new sounds. He follows up last year’s beautiful Whisper Me Wishes with some of the warmest acid tracks I’ve ever heard. more >>

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VA: Viewpoints Chapter One

This first compilation on Arne Weinberg’s label is a wonderful introduction to overlooked artists crafting techno in the Detroit style. more >>

Highlights