Top Releases of January 2021

Whilst the new year still sees no sign of clubs returning, there have been some weighty releases this January that we all hope to hear on a proper sound system in a crowded room someday soon. But for now, here’s a roundup of the biggest tracks and debuts from January to soundtrack your lockdown listening. Let's get into it.

Cameo Blush - uu001 (Unknown Untitled)

A very impressive debut release from a very unique label. Unknown Untitled has come up with a concept of releasing on vinyl with the artist kept anonymous at first. The artist is then revealed at a later date with digital purchase also becoming available. Cameo Blush has been revealed as the producer behind their first release, serving up three tracks packed full of euphoric melodies and rhythmic percs.

Kessler - Ambivalent (Shall Not Fade)

Shall Not Fade welcome Kessler as the latest artist on their ‘Basement Tracks’ series. After a string of high-class releases in 2020, Kessler continues to go from strength to strength as he kicks off the new year with an immense six track EP. Floaty synths combine with heavy breaks to create a release oozing with quality. This man is certainly one to watch.

B’Zircon - Lazulination (Kalahari Oyster Cult)

Roza Terenzi and Fantastic Man team up under the alias “B’Zircon'' and it meets every expectation. Roza’s spacey techno sound is in full force with trancey acid and bleeps underpinning the two tracks. The EP is also nicely wrapped up by Perko’s more ambient remix of ‘Azure’.

Antonello Teora - La Cura (John Beltran Remix) (Blizzard Audio Club)

The Swiss imprint continues to show an impressive variety in their catalogue with a John Beltran remix of ‘La Cura’ from Antonello Teora’s forthcoming album. Beltran features soft vocals and dreamy synths for a more mellow jungle vibe.

Thodén - This Codified Drift (Electroménager)

A familiar face on the Electroménager roster, Thodén makes his return with a debut album. The Manchester-based producer reflects the current climate as he moves his production away from “club music” in this release. The resulting album is a pleasant surprise, mainly consisting of beautifully crafted, experimental pieces except for ‘Hyperreal’ and ‘Gush’. These two mark a return to the unique sound of Thodén’s gritty, UK bass style of production.

Various Artists - Subtle Oscillations (Size 13)

Leeds collective Size 13 make their label debut with a five-track VA, featuring an eclectic range of sounds inspired by downtempo, house, breakbeat and more. Both the VA and the artists involved are well worth checking out, as Subtle Oscillations indicates a successful jump into the label realm for Size 13.

Mani Festo - Disengage (WNCL Recordings)

It's another lethal EP from Mani Festo, returning to his West Norwood roots with WNCL. 'Disengage' consists of four tracks, all packed full of the heaviest breaks for your listening pleasure.

Hyas - .​.​.​Who Likes To Party .​.​. (Chat Noir)

Up and coming French producer Hyas continues to show the extensive range to his sound on his latest EP with Parisian outfit Chat Noir. Elements of acid, ghetto and UKG all feature on this release that is definitely worthy of Hyas’s vinyl debut.

Bakongo, Spectr - Close Call (Hotflush Recordings)

A collaboration of alter-egos, Rusko and Scuba team up under their alternate aliases for a heavy-hitting two tracker. ‘Off Guard’ and ‘Close Call’ keep in line with the UK Bass and Funky sound of Bakongo, including afro percussives and wobbly basslines that pack a serious punch.

Thats all folks, hope you enjoyed some of the stuff in here and if you did make sure you go support the labels/artists!