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Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House 09

Suneel — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 03:36:44 +0000

Episode 9 of the JunoDownload.com Funky House series imagined and mixed by Implicit & Suneel of FHMDC continues the duo’s exploration process of innovative offerings in electronic dance music. The new recording begins in the world of Nu:Disco/Indie, transitions to intense tribal rhythms before drowning in full blown disco/filtered house, finally culminating with heavy doses of deep electro/vocal funk. The episode includes original tracks and remixes from Aeroplane, Breakbot, Shinichi Osawa, Tommie Sunshine, Chocolate Puma, Hatiras, Olav Basoski, Dirty Freek, Jam Xpress, Russ Chimes, Madeon and more! It can be directly downloaded here, or streamed below:

Juno Funky House 09 – Mixed By Implicit & Suneel (FunkyHouseMusic.com) by FHMDC

Track Listing

1. BREAKBOT – Baby I’m Yours (feat Irfane – Aeroplane remix) [In The House/Defected]
2. SHINICHI OSAWA – Love Will Guide You [Southern Fried]
3. ELECTRIC TANGO – Sax Story (Dino club mix) [Z Records]
4. CHOCOLATE PUMA – For Your Love 2011 (feat Colonel Red) [Hed Kandi]
5. RAY FOXX – The Trumpeter (Chocolate Puma remix) [Defected]
6. Z FACTOR – Keep On Jumpin (Luigi Rocca remix) [Z Records]
7. BASTO – Gregory’s Theme (Olav Basoski remix) [Vendetta]
8. ERICK MORILLO & EDDIE THONEICK FEAT SHAWNEE TAYLOR – Live Your Life (Dirty Freek remix) [Subliminal]
9. HATIRAS – Catz Play [Hatrax]
10. STARS ON 45 – 45 (Dave Spoon vs Hatiras remix) [Tommy Boy]
11. NIELS VAN GOGH/DANIEL STRAUSS FEAT ASHLEY SLATER – Stop The Time (Olav Basoski remix) [Hed Kandi]
12. JAM XPRESS FEAT SEAN DECLASE – I’m Free (Never) (Original mix) [Onelove]
13. OLAV BASOSKI – New Day (Redroche remix) [Defected]
14. BROKE ONE – Go Go Go (Russ Chimes Gunman remix) [La Valigetta]
15. RUSS CHIMES – Tonic [Uno Mas]
16. DEADMAU5 – Raise Your Weapon (Madeon extended remix) [Toolroom]

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House 09 Track List – Available For Purchase Here

Mutually aggregating 25+ years of experience in the performance, production, and promotion of house music, Implicit & Suneel are considered two of the United States’ most influential forces in the genre. Their DJ performances, studio productions, and mix recordings have led them to performances before thousands all across North America while simultaneously maintaining the critically acclaimed FunkyHouseMusic.com portal – the all-in-one information resource for the house music sound.

FHMDC – New Brand Logo

Suneel — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 14:16:38 +0000

FHMDC is integrating a new brand logo to enhance our profile as an influential voice in raising awareness of innovative house music, and the associated industry. Updates to our digital and social media presence will take place in the coming days, and we welcome our reading audience to post comments and sentiment to let us know what you think!

FHMDC – Invading SoundCloud

Jacques Bauer – Abandon Ship (Implicit’s Renegade Mashup Remix)

Suneel — Tue, 03 May 2011 22:48:45 +0000

FHMDC’s Implicit created this wicked mashup a few years back, and has recently posted it to his Soundcloud page. We thought it would be a kind gift to our readership to share this essential choon that the FHMDC team rocked for years as a secret weapon. Break out your dancing shoes, put your headphones on, and enjoy…

Jacques Bauer – Abandon Ship (Implicit’s Renegade Mashup Remix) by Implicit

Jacques Bauer – Abandon Ship (Implicit’s Renegade Mashup Remix) from Implicit on Vimeo.

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House 08

Suneel — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 04:36:09 +0000

Episode 8 of the interactive mix series between FunkyHouseMusic.com & Junodownload.com is now live and available for download here. Let’s take a journey through a blackhole of funky house music recently released on Juno Download by U.S. selectors Implicit & Suneel from FHMDC. This DJ set captures multiple sub-genres of Funky House including Indie, Nu:Disco, French, Disco, Acid, Filtered Bangin’, Electro, and a touch of Progressive Funk. The episode includes original tracks and remixes from Etienne Futur, Nightriders, Chris Lake, Digitalism, Surkin, Light Year, Night Drugs, The Phantom’s Revenge, Russ Chimes, Grum, Phonat, Two Door Cinema Club, and more. It can be directly downloaded here, or streamed below:

Juno Funky House 08 – Mixed By Implicit & Suneel (FunkyHouseMusic.com) by FHMDC

Track Listing

1. TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB – Something Good Can Work (The Twelves remix) [Kitsune]
2. FLIGHT FACILITIES FEAT GISELLE – Crave You (Cassian remix) [Bang Gang]
3. FULL INTENTION – Everytime [Full Intention]
4. NIGHT DRUGS FEAT SHINING SYMBOL – Volante [Up Jump The Boogie Recordings]
5. ETIENNE FUTUR – Ou’est Le Disco [PH Recordings]
6. BOYS NOIZE – Yeah [Boysnoize]
7. NIGHTRIDERS – Hey (Chris Lake & Marco Lys re-edit) [Rising Music]
8. THE PHANTOMS REVENGE – Charlie [La Valigetta]
9. THE PHANTOMS REVENGE – Last Man Standing [La Valigetta]
10. STARJACKERS – Something’s Happening (Calvertron remix) [Southern Fried]
11. SUPER MAL/PHONAT – Pixelated (Super Mal vocal re-edit) [Bandito]
12. SURKIN – Fan Out (Light Year remix) [Institubes]
13. CHRIS LAKE & MARCO LYS – Running Out (Redroche remix) [Rising Music]
14. DIGITALISM – Blitz (Original version) [Kitsune]
15. HUMAN LIFE – Wherever We Are (Grum remix) [Lifex Recordings]
16. RUSS CHIMES – Targa (Bestrack Remix) [Eye Industries]

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House 08 Track List – Available For Purchase Here

Implicit & Suneel – Spring 2011 FunkyHouseMusic.com Inspirations

Suneel — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 16:40:27 +0000

FHMDC’s Implicit & Suneel release their new Spring 2011 DJ Chart featuring 30 funky gems blending a diverse sandbox of house music across the genre’s category. The duo lay down their bets on tomorrow’s future anthems, to paying respect to forgotten choons from a different era of club culture.

Implicit & Suneel – Spring 2011 DJ Chart

1. BREAKBOT – Baby I’m Yours (feat Irfane – Aeroplane remix) [In The House/Defected]
2. PIERRE DE LA TOUCHE – Song Of The Sirens (Louis La Roche remix) [GrooveTrax]
3. JAM XPRESS FEAT SEAN DECLASE – I’m Free (Never) (Original mix) [Onelove]
4. BASTO – Gregory’s Theme (Olav Basoski remix) [Spinnin]
5. STARS ON 45 – 45 (Dave Spoon vs Hatiras remix) [Work]
6. NIELS VAN GOGH & DANIEL STRAUSS – Stop The Time (feat Ashley Slater – Olav Basoski remix) [Hed Kandi]
7. JAMES TALK & RIDNEY FEAT MAX C – One For Me [Azuli]
8. OLAV BASOSKI – New Day (Redroche remix) [Defected]
9. LL TON J – Roger More (The Young Punx vocal re-edit) [Mofo Hi Fi]
10. SHADES OF RHYTHM – Sweet Sensation (Lone remix) [Cheap Thrills]
11. HATIRAS – Catz Play [Hatrax]
12. GHOSTS OF VENICE feat ERROL REID – Without You [Strictly Rhythm]
13. YELLA FINESSE – Knew Disco (Geisha Twins Jupiter Jazz remix) [Stardust]
14. SHARAM JEY VS YOUNG BLOOD – Young Blood (Original mix) [Fuck U Very Much]
15. JOEY CHICAGO – Into Your Eyes (The Phantom’s Revenge remix) [4Disco]
16. LA ZEBRA – Piano Dancin [Mozzarella]
17. ATTACK YOURSELF – Long Time No See (The Phantom’s Revenge remix) [Stardust]
18. ERICK MORILLO & EDDIE THONEICK FEAT SHAWNEE TAYLOR – Live Your Life (Dirty Freek remix) [Subliminal]
19. MAC ZIMMS – My Feelings [Spinnin]
20. TEENAGE BAD GIRL – Keep Up With You (Lifelike remix) [Citizen]
21. MANCINI – Supa Lovin (Original mix) [In The House/Defected]
22. DISCO TRASH MUSIC/MADELINE PUCKETTE – Everything Is Alright (Original mix) [Globelle]
23. KAMEI – Sugarland (Original mix) [Mozzarella]
24. SENOR STEREO – Unintentional (feat Danny Daze – U-Tern remix) [Slow Roast]
25. CHRIS LAKE & MARCO LYS – Running Out (LA Riots remix) [Nervous]
26. HARDMIX – Disco Revolution (Original mix) [Hardmix]
27. HIS MAJESTY ANDRE – Hearts [Cheap Thrills]
28. RAOUL ZERNA – Love The Things You Do (Bryan Cox remix) [Defunk]
29. STEVE NAVARO FEAT EVVA GG – I Can’t Stop (Original mix) [Bid Muzik]
30. OLAV BASOSKI – Can’t Stand No Lies [Dirty Soul]

Audio samples and purchase links available here at Junodownload.com.

Mutually aggregating 25+ years of experience in the performance, production, and promotion of house music, Implicit & Suneel are considered two of the United States ’ most influential forces in the genre. Their DJ performances, studio productions, and mix recordings have led them to performances before thousands all across North America while simultaneously maintaining the critically acclaimed FunkyHouseMusic.com portal – the all-in-one information resource for the house music sound. In addition, they are the DJs behind the Juno Plus Funky House mix series.

Implicit & Suneel – Winter 2011 FunkyHouseMusic.com Gems

Suneel — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 20:00:41 +0000

FHMDC’s Implicit & Suneel’s new Winter 2011 DJ Chart features 30 funky gems blended with an array of bangin’/filtered house, peak-hour house, happy house, nu:disco, electro house, acid house, forgotten anthems, and diverse doses of influences showcasing the DJ duo’s aggregated 25+ years of experience in the game.

Implicit & Suneel – Winter 2011 DJ Chart

01. THE PHANTOMS REVENGE – Charlie [La Valigetta]
02. NIGHT DRUGS FEAT SHINING SYMBOL – Volante [Up Jump The Boogie Recordings]
03. MARTIN SOLVEIG/DRAGONETTE – Hello (Club edit) [Vendetta]
04. THE PHANTOMS REVENGE – Last Man Standing [La Valigetta]
05. HIS MAJESTY ANDRE – BBQ Sauce [Cheap Thrills]
06. ETIENNE FUTUR – Circa’86 [PH Recordings]
07. RUSS CHIMES – Targa (Bestrack Remix) [Eye Industries]
08. STARJACKERS – Something’s Happening (Calvertron remix) [Southern Fried]
09. THE PHANTOMS REVENGE – Machine Gun Girl [La Valigetta]
10. ETIENNE FUTUR – Ou’est Le Disco [PH Recordings]
11. TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB – Something Good Can Work (The Twelves remix) [Kitsune]
12. BOYS NOIZE – Yeah [Boysnoize]
13. NIGHTRIDERS – Hey (Chris Lake & Marco Lys re-edit) [Rising Music]
14. BURNS & FRED FALKE – YSLM (You Stopped Loving Me) (Club mix) [Deconstruction]
15. SPACE COWBOY – I Would Die 4 U (Extended club mix) [Southern Fried]
16. SUPER MAL/PHONAT – Pixelated (Super Mal vocal re-edit) [Bandito]
17. FLIGHT FACILITIES FEAT GISELLE – Crave You (Cassian remix) [Bang Gang]
18. SPACE COWBOY – Crazy Talk (Pique & Nique remix) [Southern Fried]
19. DJ MES/SONNY FODERA- Wanna Do [Guesthouse]
20. PHONAT – Love Hits The Fan (Jam Xpress remix) [Onelove]
21. FULL INTENTION – Everytime [Full Intention]
22. HUMAN LIFE – Wherever We Are (Grum remix) [Lifex Recordings]
23. DIGITALISM – Blitz (Original version) [Kitsune]
24. CHRIS LAKE & MARCO LYS – Running Out (Redroche remix) [Rising Music]
25. TOM DE NEEF FEAT KEITHEN CARTER – Yupiter (I Want You) (Lifelike remix) [Slip n Slide]
26. HI FI MIKE – Stereo Flava’s (Rasmus Faber remix) [Level Two]
27. N JOY – Do Whatcha Gotta Do (Original mix) [Bid Muzik]
28. SURKIN – Fan Out (Light Year remix) [Institubes]
29. JUSTIN FAUST – Revenge (Russ Chimes remix) [Kiez Beats]
30. POLYMATH – Give Me More [Mofo Hi Fi]

Audio samples and purchase links available here at Junodownload.com.

Mutually aggregating 25+ years of experience in the performance, production, and promotion of house music, Implicit & Suneel are considered two of the United States ’ most influential forces in the genre. Their DJ performances, studio productions, and mix recordings have led them to performances before thousands all across North America while simultaneously maintaining the critically acclaimed FunkyHouseMusic.com portal – the all-in-one information resource for the house music sound. In addition, they are the DJs behind the Juno Plus Funky House Podcast series.

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House – Episode 07

Suneel — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 13:00:29 +0000

Episode 7 of the Interactive mix series between FunkyHouseMusic.com & Junodownload.com is now live and available for download here. An architecture of imaginative audio via the finest, and freshest, house music productions recently released on Juno Download by U.S. selectors Implicit & Suneel from FHMDC – this DJ set captures multiple sub-genres of Funky House including French House, Disco House, Vocal House, Filtered Bangin’ House, Hip-House, Piano House, Chi-House, and seamlessly shifts between 4/4 and break-beat rhythms. The episode includes original tracks and remixes from TAVRVS, Lifelike, Ghosts Of Venice, Emil Lanne, Louie Vega, Daddy’s Groove, The Phantom’s Revenge, Evil Nine, DCUP, His Majesty Andre, Axwell, LBCK, and more. It can be downloaded or streamed through the options below:

SoundCloud
High Quality MP3

Juno Funky House Podcast 07 – Mixed By Suneel & Implicit (FunkyHouseMusic.com) by FHMDC

Track Listing

1. The Shapeshifters – Helter Skelter (Daddy’s Groove Magic Island Rework) [Defected]
2. Michael Canitrot – Desire (Disfunktion Remix) [Defected]
3. Louie Vega & Jay ‘Sinister’ Sealee starring Julie McKnight – “Diamond Life” (Daddy’s Groove Magic Island Rework) [Defected]
4. Tristan Garner – Jazz Me Up (Original Gangster Dub) [Academy]
5. Jam Express Feat. DD – Gotcha Feelin (Lifelike Remix) [Onelove]
6. Cicada – Your Love (DCUP Remix) [Critical Mass]
7. Data MC/Nhan & Taan – Too Young To Die (Original Mix) [Urbasian]
8. James Talk & Ridney – Forever (Ghosts Of Venice Remix) [Defected]
9. Evil Nine – Stay Up (feat EL-P) [For Lovers]
10. Axwell – Nothing But Love (Classic Mix) [Ultra]
11. Foamo – Generate Some Heat [Moda]
12. Kid Knuckle – Brand New Dance (His Majesty Andre Remix) [Fools Gold]
13. LBCK – Start (The Phantom’s Revenge Daily Double Remix) [On The Fruit]
14. LBCK – Start (La Zebra Remix) [On The Fruit]
15. TAVRVS – Forever 1998 [Mozzarella]
16. Discotron – Get On Down [Tasty Recordings]
17. Emil Lanne – Do Me Right [Flapjack]

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House Podcast 07 Track List – Available For Purchase Here

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House Episode 07 – Track List

Suneel — Sun, 05 Dec 2010 14:00:57 +0000

The track list is now available for Episode 7 of the Juno Funky House series. The track listing features an array of high quality, funky house music productions recently released on Juno Download by U.S. selectors Implicit & Suneel from FunkyHouseMusic.com.

Track List

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House Podcast 07 Track List

Implicit & Suneel – Autumn 2010 FunkyHouseMusic.com Pumpkins

Suneel — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 17:35:22 +0000

FHMDC’s Implicit & Suneel’s new Autumn 2010 DJ Chart is now available at Junodownload.com with 26 smashin’ pumpkins blended with a fury of very funky French house, slammin’ mind-benders, and doses of old and new school influences across a variety of artists and labels.

Implicit & Suneel – Autumn 2010 DJ Chart

01. TAVRVS – Zwai Break [Mozzarella]
02. Jam Xpress Feat. DD – Gotcha Feelin (Lifelike remix) [Onelove]
03. Grandmaster Jazz – Flunky Fusion [Club-A-Club Recordings]
04. Poka – Believe [Club-A-Club Recordings]
05. LBCK – Start (The Phantom’s Revenge Daily Double Remix) [On The Fruit]
06. Axwell Feat. Errol Reid – Nothing But Love (Classic Mix) [Ultra]
07. Emil Lanne – Do Me Right [Flapjack]
08. The Shapeshifters – Helter Skelter (Daddy’s Groove Remix)
09. La Zebra – Feel The Music (The Phantom’s Revenge Remix) [Mozzarella]
10. Michael Canitrot – Desire (Disfunktion remix) [In The House/Defected]
11. Evil Nine Feat. EL-P – Stay Up (feat EL-P) [For Lovers]
12. Tristan Garner – Jazz Me Up (Original Gangster Dub) [Academy]
13. Aeroplane – Superstar (The Krays Remix) [Ultra]
14. TAVRVS – Forever 1998 [Mozzarella]
15. Phase II – Reachin’ (Original Brotherhood Mix) [In The House/Defected]
16. Kid Gloves – Brand New Dance (His Majesty Andre Remix) [Fools Gold]
17. Louie Vega/Jay Sinister Sealee Starring Julie Mcknight – Diamond Life (Daddy’s Groove Magic Island Rework) [Defected]
18. Voodoo Chilli – Love Songs (Extended Loop Mix) [Cheap Thrills]
19. Cicada – Your Love (DCUP Remix) [Critical Mass]
20. Laidback Luke Feat. Jonathon Mendelsohn – Till Tonight (MSTRKRFT Remix) [Nervous]
21. Rasmus Faber – Ever After (2010 Remix) [Farplane]
22. Computer Club – Did We Go Too Far? [Killpop]
23. Vinny Troia Feat. Jaidene Veda – Do For Love (Mike Balance Remix) [Curvve]
24. James Talk & Ridney – Forever (Ghosts of Venice Remix) [Defected]
25. Lone – Pineapple Crush (Action Man Remix) [Cheap Thrills]
26. Data MC/Nhan & Taan – Too Young To Die (Original Mix) [Urbasian]

Audio samples and purchase links available here at Junodownload.com.

Mutually aggregating 25+ years of experience in the performance, production, and promotion of house music, Implicit & Suneel are considered two of the United States ’ most influential forces in the genre. Their DJ performances, studio productions, and mix recordings have led them to performances before thousands all across North America while simultaneously maintaining the critically acclaimed FunkyHouseMusic.com portal – the all-in-one information resource for the house music sound. In addition, they are the DJs behind the Juno Plus Funky House Podcast series.

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House Podcast – Episode 6

Suneel — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 22:11:38 +0000

Episode 6 of the Interactive Podcast series between FunkyHouseMusic.com & Junodownload.com is now live and available for download here. The podcast includes original tracks and remixes from The Phantom’s Revenge, His Majesty Andre, Louis La Roche, Senor Stereo, Jam Xpress, Tommie Sunshine, Adulture, Steve Mac, Mark Knight, and more. It can be downloaded or streamed through the options below:

iTunes
SoundCloud
High Quality MP3

Episode 6 of our funky house podcast series wastes no time jumping head-first into a pool of slamming funk, with US selectors Implicit & Suneel at the controls.

In their own words, this podcast contains “an energy-fuelled, imaginative migration through bumpin’ filtered percussion, uplifting brass horns, banging disco, hip-house, and abrasive, full-on driving tech-funk”.

You can subscribe to the mix for free in iTunes here, buy the featured tracks from Juno Download here or stream/download it via the Soundcloud player below.

Source: http://www.junodownload.com/plus

Juno Funky House Podcast 06 mixed by Suneel & Implict (funkyhousemusic.com) by junodownload.com

Track Listing

1. Mark Knight – Devil Walking (Original Club Mix) [Toolroom]
2. Chris Lake & Marco Lys vs Copyright featuring Tasita D’Mour – La Tromba Risin’ [Defected]
3. T Coy – Carino (Steve Mac’s Old Skool Big Room Mix) [Deconstruction]
4. Riva Starr – Splendidub (feat Rettore – Extended Vox) [Snatch]
5. Jose Nunez – Dance Again (Jose’s Subliminal mix) [Subliminal US]
6. Rush Hour Commuters – Feel It [Groovelab Recordings]
7. Senor Stereo – Hot Damn! [Slow Roast]
8. Serial Thrilla – Dance To It (Original Mix) [Tasty Recordings]
9. Reboot – Enjoy Music (Jam Xpress Remix) [Onelove]
10. Crookers – Royal T (Riva Starr Dub) [In The House/Defected]
11. DJ Kue – Too Fly For Disco (Original Mix) [Burn The Fire]
12. Titan – Rodeo (Tommie Sunshine & Figure present ECSTA$Y Remix) [La Valigetta]
13. Adulture/OCD Automatic – Paper Cat (The Phantom’s Revenge Remix) [Solid Bump]
14. His Majesty Andre – Cyprus [Moda]
15. Florrie – Call 911 (His Majesty Andre Call Me Instead Remix) [Kitsune]
16. Human Life – In It Together (Louis La Roche Feeling Remix) [Lifex]

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House Podcast 06 Track List – Available For Purchase Here

Derrick Carter – Live @ Basic NYC (August 2010)

Suneel — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:57:08 +0000

FHMDC exclusive video coverage of Derrick Carter (Classic Music Co. / Chicago, IL – USA) performing live at Basic NYC – Sullivan Room in New York City – August 2010. Having witnessed this first hand, the legend from Chicago continues to maintain that unique ability to absolutely devastate dance floors with his brand of mix-o-logy.

Implicit & Suneel – JunoDownload.com June/July 2010 DJ Chart

Suneel — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 09:00:49 +0000

FHMDC’s Implicit & Suneel’s new June/July 2010 DJ Chart is now available at Junodownload.com with 27 smokers integrated with a blitz of filtered disco funk, chuggin’ twisters, and a diverse set of intelligently designed vocals.

01. Sharam Jey – Hearts of Stone (The Phantom’s Revenge Remix) [King Kong]
02. T Coy – Carino (Steve Mac’s Old Skool Big Room Mix) [Deconstruction]
03. Chris Lake/Marco Lys vs. Copyright Feat. Tasita D Mour – La Tromba Risin’ (Copyright Elevation remix) [Defected]
04. Florrie – Call 911 (His Majesty Andre Call Me Instead Remix) [Kitsune]
05. Mark Knight – Devil Walking (Original Club Mix) [Toolroom]
06. Drop The Lime – Devil’s Eyes (Jam Xpress Remix) [Bandroom]
07. Carlo Toma – Back To Panorama’s Love [In The House/Defected]
08. His Majesty Andre – Cyprus [Moda]
09. Senor Stereo – Hot Damn! [Slow Roast]
10. Raven Maize – Forever Together (Grant Nelson Live Mix) [Z Records]
11. Rush Hour Commuters – Feel It [Groovelab]
12. Adrian Lux – Teenage Crime (Axwell Remix) [Vendetta]
13. Gramophonedzie – Street Lady (Mark Funk Mix) [Guesthouse]
14. Coach Roebuck – Get Ur Swerve On (Astropimp Remix) [Nocturnal]
15. Adulture/OCD Automatic – Paper Cat (The Phantom’s Revenge Remix) [Solid Bump]
16. Human Life – In It Together [Lifex]
17. Jose Nunez – Dance Again (Jose’s Subliminal Mix) [Subliminal]
18. Little Big Man – This Is The Way [Mobile Trax]
19. Jackin Box – Right Back Jack [Flapjack]
20. Kill Frenzy – Master Plan [Cheap Thrills]
21. Titan – Rodeo (Tommie Sunshine & Figure present ECSTA$Y Remix) [La Valigetta]
22. Dimitri From Paris – Rock This Town (Dimitri From Paris Little Italy Remake) [SSOH]
23. Yolanda Wyns – I Know You, I Live You (Joey Negro Remix – Grant Nelson Re-visit) [Z Records]
24. Dirty South – Phazing [Vendetta]
25. Riva Starr – Splendidub (feat. Rettore – Extended Vox) [Snatch]
26. Daniel Kingley – Together (SKingz Remix) [Groove Dust]
27. South of Roosevelt – Everybody Loves (Vocal Mix) [Flapjack]

Audio samples and purchase links available here at Junodownload.com

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House Podcast – Episode 5

Suneel — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 13:30:23 +0000

Episode 5 of the Interactive Podcast series between FunkyHouseMusic.com & Junodownload.com is now live and available for download here.

Episode 5 of our funky house podcast series shifts into uncharted territory with selectors Implicit & Suneel dipping their toes into the Nu:Disco pool.

The podcast includes original tracks and remixes from Z Factor, Michael Gray, Tensnake, Cassius, Chocolate Puma, ATFC, Ridney, Paul Harris and more, with plenty of uplifting hand-raisers, spaced-out mind benders, and filtered French House funk.

You can subscribe to the mix for free in iTunes here, buy the featured tracks from Juno Download here or stream/download it via the Soundcloud player below.

Source: http://www.junodownload.com/plus

Juno Funky House 5 mixed by Suneel & Implicit click ‘buy on juno’ for full tracklisting by junodownload.com

Track List

01. Tensnake – Coma Cat [In The House/Defected]
02. Dennis Ferrer – Hey Hey (Tom De Neef Remix) [Strictly Rhythm]
03. Z Factor – The Piano Principle (Joey Negro club mix) [Z Records]
04. Block & Crown – Disco Ivory (WMC Miami Beach Mix) [Just For Fun Sweden]
05. Jay Vegas – Easy [Playmore]
06. Cassius – Cassius 99 (Tim Green remix) [In The House/Defected]
07. Chocolate Puma – Back Home (feat Colonel Red) [In The House/Defected]
08. James Talk & Ridney – Forever [Defected]
09. Daniel Bovie & Roy Rox feat Nelson – Love Me (ATFC’s Soultek Vocal) [In The House/Defected]
10. Daddy’s Groove & Little Mark – Shorebreak (Magic Island Original Mix) [In The House/Defected]
11. Prok & Fitch Presents Nanchang Nancy – Walk With Me (Axwell vs Daddy Groove Remix) [New State]
12. Full Intention VS Marco Demark/Dave Manna – America (I Love America) (Original Mix) [Full Intention]
13. Analog People In A Digital World VS Tim Deluxe Feat Sam Obernik – Just Won’t Do (ATFC & Warren Clarke Re-Vamp) [Ego]

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House Podcast 05 Track List – Available For Purchase Here

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House Podcast 05 Track List

Suneel — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 04:23:00 +0000

The track list is now available for Episode 5 of the Juno Funky House Podcast series and travels through a diverse selection of house sub-genres spanning from Nu:Disco, Vocal, Jackin’, French, Tech, and even a sprinkle of Funky Progressive highlighting current and predicted gems all wrapped up seamlessly by U.S. selectors Implicit & Suneel from FunkyHouseMusic.com.

Track List

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House Podcast 05 Track List

Implicit & Suneel – May 2010 JunoDownload.com DJ Chart

Suneel — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 14:18:12 +0000

FHMDC’s Implicit & Suneel new May 2010 DJ Chart is now available at Junodownload.com with an essential 20 choons ready to rock the disco-tech with an endless array of infectious vocals and feel-good funk.

01. Daddy’s Groove & Little Mark – Shorebreak (Magic Island original mix) [In The House/Defected]
02. Analog People In A Digital World VS Tim Deluxe Feat. Sam Obernik – Just Won’t Do (ATFC & Warren Clarke Re-Vamp) [Ego]
03. Reboot – Enjoy Music (Jam Xpress remix) [Onelove]
04. Dennis Ferrer – Hey Hey (Tom De Neef remix) [In The House/Defected]
05. Jay Vegas – Easy [Playmore]
06. Z Factor – The Piano Principle (Joey Negro club mix) [Z Records]
07. Chocolate Puma Feat. Colonel Red – Back Home [Defected]
08. Block & Crown – Disco Ivory (WMC Miami Beach mix) [Just For Fun]
09. James Talk/Ridney – Forever [Defected]
10. Sidechains – Back 2 Skool [Tracy Recordings]
11. Timo Graf Feat. Mia Moore – Dancin’ (Funkellers Funky mix) [Neurotic Groove]
12. Sidechains – Can’t Love You Babe [Tracy Recordings]
13. ATFC Feat. Rae – It’s Over (ATFC’s Lektrotek vocal edit) [In The House/Defected]
14. Redroche Feat. Laure Kidd – Give U More (DJ DLG mix) [Eyezcream]
15. Mark Funk – Reflections [DiskoZoo]
16. Markus Nikolai – Bushes (Norman Cook club mix) [Southern Fried]
17. Rasmus Faber – Get Over Here (feat Melo – Axwell remix mode) [Farplane Records]
18. Knightshock – Things Can Only Get Better (Club mix) [Vendetta]
19. Z Factor – Makes You Crazy (Joey Negro club mix) [Z Records]
20. Prok & Fitch Present Nanchang Nancy – Walk With Me (Axwell vs Daddy’s Groove remix) [Axtone]

Audio samples and purchase links available here at Junodownload.com

FHMDC Exclusive Video: Treasure Fingers – Live @ ‘Boys & Girls’

Suneel — Sat, 29 May 2010 16:30:38 +0000

For the past three years, the DJ and producer born Ashley Jones has been making it rain in the disco with innovative remixes and original tracks. Jones is far from a new jack, having racked up over a decade of international club experience and studio chops as part of the legendary drum & bass group, Evol Intent. Yet as Treasure Fingers, he’s found a way to merge his diverse influences and deep history into a signature sound, packed with intricate basslines, chopped-up, gritty synth melodies, and party-ready drum breaks. It’s already captured the ears of everyone from rock groups Snowden and Mike Snow to house legends Romanthony and Roy Davis JR (all of whom personally requested the Treasure Fingers remix treatment). Equally intrigued were A-Trak and Nick Catchdubs, who quickly signed Treasure Fingers to their tastemaking label Fool’s Gold, home to Kid Sister, Duck Sauce and other buzzed-about favorites.

Source: http://www.amonly.com

FunkyHouseMusic.com had the opportunity to record segments from the dance floor pit at the legendary and historic NYC mega-venue – Webster Hall – of Treasure Fingers performing live @ ‘Boys & Girls’. We hope you enjoy this recording of one of house music’s rising stars laying down a diverse set of funky house, nu:disco, indie house, and re-interpretations of forgotten gems.

Implicit vs Suneel – Juno Funky House Podcast – Episode 4

Suneel — Fri, 28 May 2010 13:40:06 +0000

Episode 4 of the Interactive Podcast series between FunkyHouseMusic.com & Junodownload.com is now live and available for download here.

Episode 4 of our funky house podcast series dives into the disco funk pool, with US selectors Implicit & Suneel running the show.

The FunkyHouseMusic.com duo travel through a variety of disco-influenced sub-genres of funky house, with original compositions and re-interpretations from the likes of Richard Earnshaw, Cookie Monsterz, Wez Clarke, Joey Negro, and MN2S, before blowing the roof off with peak-hour fist-pumpers from ATFC, Lightyear, Hatiras, Jaime Fanatic, Freak Fu, and more.

As always, you can subscribe for free in iTunes here, buy the individual tracks from Juno Download here or stream the mix via the Soundcloud player below.

Source: http://www.junodownload.com/plus

Juno Funky House Podcast 4 mixed by Suneel & Implicit – click “buy on juno” for full tracklisting by junodownload.com

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House Podcast 04 Track List

Suneel — Fri, 28 May 2010 03:45:27 +0000

The track list is now available for Episode 4 of the Juno Funky House Podcast series and travels through a variety of disco-influenced sub-genres of funky house by U.S. selectors Implicit & Suneel from FunkyHouseMusic.com.

01. Cookie Monsterz – Spread Love (Richard Earnshaw “People’s” Classic Remix) [King Street Sounds US]
02. Wez Clarke / Maxine Hardcastle – Bringing Me Back [Discopolis Recordings]
03. Arco – Nude Music [Blockhead US]
04. AC Soul Symphony – The Kinda Love (Joey Negro Strung Out Dub Mix) [Oxyd]
05. MN2S – Things We Used To Do (Conan Liquid Re-edit) [mn2s]
06. Sean Biddle – Disco Nights [Nocturnal Recordings]
07. Discotron – Stand Up [Tasty Recordings]
08. Dan Rubell Presents Benirras – Heaven (Original extended club mix) [Guajira]
09. Bionik Phunk – In My Head (ATFC’s Timmy’s In My Head Remix) [Guajira]
10. Whitenoize – No Worry [In Stereo]
11. Light Year – The Pop Shot [Bang Gang]
12. Freak Fu– Everybody Boogey [Bleenchic]
13. madDelish – Down To Earth [Gossip]
14. Hatiras vs KID – Don’t Stop [Nervous]
15. Binkers / Jaime Fanatic / DJ Rockid – Ladies (Original Mix) [Legacy Kids Club]

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House Podcast 04 Track List

FHMDC Exclusive Video: David Morales – Live @ Basic NYC

Suneel — Mon, 10 May 2010 14:57:26 +0000

David Morales (born the 21st of August, 1961) is an internationally acclaimed Grammy-winning house music DJ and producer. In addition to his production and DJ work, Morales is one of the most prolific remixers of all time. David Morales is considered by many to be one of the first so-called superstar DJs. Larry Levan was the first to recognise the potential for success in Morales, and he was soon a popular regular at The Loft, Paradise Garage and The Sound Factory – all highly influential New York City nightclubs in the late 1980s and early 1990s. His remix and production work helped him expand his DJ career, allowing him to perform at major clubs around the globe including the Ministry of Sound in London and Ibiza’s Pacha.

FunkyHouseMusic.com had the rare opportunity to record segments of the former Grammy Award winner – David Morales – performing live @ Basic NYC. We hope you enjoy this recording of one of house music’s true legends laying down a classic set of feel-good house rhythms!

Exclusive Video: Mark Farina – Performing Live @ Basic NYC

Suneel — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 04:33:39 +0000

Mark Farina (born in Chicago, Illinois, USA on March 25, 1969) is a DJ and musician, known for his chicago house, acid jazz and downtempo works. Notable releases include Mood (KMS Records, 1989) and the Mushroom Jazz series (Om Records, 1996–2008). Nowadays known also from house compilations El Divinio. He is primarily identified with the house music scene in San Francisco, California, where he resides, and travel globally to share his unique, funky jackin’ house sound.

FunkyHouseMusic.com had the absolute delight to record snippets of the legendary Mark Farina performing live @ Basic NYC. We hope you enjoy this sample of the vibe heavy experience that this funky house technician brings every time he rocks da disco-tech!

Implicit & Suneel – April 2010 JunoDownload.com DJ Chart

Suneel — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 18:15:19 +0000

FHMDC’s Implicit & Suneel new April 2010 DJ Chart is now available at Junodownload.com with a massive 30 essential selections covering the spectrum from future disco to straight, nasty in-your-face funk then back to lazy Sunday afternoon positive vibes.

01. Hatiras vs Kid – Don’t Stop (Don’t Stop The Music mix) [Nervous]
02. Full Intention vs. Marco Demark/Dave Manna – America (I Love America) [Full Intention]
03. Ramon Tapia – This Groove [Strictly Rhythm]
04. Gui Baratto – Azzurra (It’s Not The Same Version) [Bargrooves]
05. MN2S – Things We Used To Do (Conan Liquid Re-edit) [mn2s]
06. Cassius – 99 (Tim Green Remix) [Cassius]
07. Tensnake – Coma Cat [Bargrooves]
08. Riva Starr – I Was Drunk (DJ Sneak’s Drunken Main Mix) [Made To Play]
09. Freak Fu – Everybody Boogey [Bleenchic]
10. AC Layne – Addicted (Vocal Mix) [Restless Soul]
11. Hideo Kobayashi Featuring Lisa Shaw – Fearless [New World]
12. BSTC Featuring JL – Love It (Reel People Rework) [Reel People Music]
13. Lifelike – Running Out (extended) [In The House/Defected]
14. Discotron – Stand Up [Tasty Recordings]
15. Knee Deep – Sweet Love [In The House/Defected]
16. John Dahlback – Bingo (Extended Original Mix) [Defected]
17. Hot Toddy – Down To Love (Fred Everything Lazy Days Mix) [Smoke n Mirrors]
18. Nick Holder Featuring Jemeni – No More Dating DJ’s (Nick Holder Remix) [DNH]
19. The C90s – 10:01 (Villa Remix) [Bargrooves]
20. Rachel Claudio/Babas D – Butterflies (Ralf Gum Vocal Mix) [Jaffa Music]
21. Doman & Gooding – Pacific State (Original Mix) [Nocturnal Groove]
22. Mustafa – Sao Salvador (UPZ Sowhat mix) [Stalwart]
23. Tommie Sunshine Featuring Oh Snap! – 5AM (A Girl Like You) (TiTAN remix) [Ultra]
24. Atomico – Turn The Beat Around (FGM)
25. Arthur Baker Featuring Nona Hendrix/Ladonna – Tear Down The Walls (Deadbots Remix) [Strictly Rhythm]
26. Smashing Sebastian Featuring C Reid – Come With It (Mikey D Extended Remix) [Strictly Rhythm]
27. Juan Kidd/Stafford Brothers Featuring Rae – I Gave You Everything (Original Mix) [Defected]
28. The 2 Bears – Be Strong [Southern Fried]
29. Swirl People Featuring Ingrid Hakanson – Without You [Swirled Music]
30. Reelsoul – For The Love Of You (Feat. Kyla – Reelsoul Sampler Edit) [mn2s]

Audio samples and purchase links available here at Junodownload.com.

FHMDC Exclusive Interview: Rasmus Faber

Suneel — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 14:36:46 +0000

Global trotting DJ, trained pianist, producer, songwriter, record label owner, and remixer to the stars. Sweden’s Rasmus Faber is a name many of you will have come across in the last 8 years and one look through his biography is like reading a who’s who and where’s where of the electronic music scene.

Undeniably one of the most energetic and captivating entertainers in House Music, Rasmus sets himself apart from his industry counterparts by incorporating not just three CDJs and an ever busy mix of key matched tracks; but also overlaying flawless live piano performances that leave crowds and critics amazed, and dancefloors in shambles.

Which makes you ask: Is there anything Rasmus Faber can’t do? Well, FHMDC decided to reach out and conduct this incredibly deep piece of dialogue to get a few steps closer to how this rising legend views not just electronic dance music, but the idea of music creation from a holistic perspective. We hope you enjoy this interview with an artist FHMDC views as one of the most talented musicians ever associated with house music.

FHMDC: Please describe how it all began – your love for music, instruments, and performance.

Rasmus Faber: Well, I’ve been into music for all my life really. Started playing piano around the age of 6-7, and never really stopped since. My Dad is a great jazz musician (saxophonist) so that obviously has had a great impact as well.

I’ve also always had some kind of computer to make music on, since I was quite young. Got my first Atari when I was 11! That really helped me feel comfortable in computer based studios later on.

FHMDC: What was it about house music that originally drew you to it? If it’s possible, provide the readers of FunkyHouseMusic.com who aren’t as familiar with your history with a short synopsis of how you became the multi-talented and prolific artist you represent today.

Rasmus Faber: I’m trained as a jazz pianist, and worked as a tour and studio musician and a live band arranger from about age 18. When I was about 22 I got into house music, as a studio pianist for other producers at first. Then I realised it was something I wanted to do by myself. Because I’m a musician, always played in various bands, and also worked as an arranger for orchestras and stuff, it was kind of natural to implement those elements in house music.

When my house music career took off I kind of stopped doing the tour musician thing, but luckily I still get to play a lot of piano, in the studio, and also because I bring a keyboard along to all my dj gigs.

FHMDC: Sweden and house music have enjoyed quite a high level of success in recent years. Names that emerged from that scene include the likes of Axwell, Steve Angello, Sebastian Ingrosso and many more. You represent (in our opinion) the polar opposite of that Swedish House Mafia sound with an organic, soulful production style that proves time and time again truly unique to your brand. It blows our mind that just 6-7 years ago, Axwell & yourself were producing and collaborating on projects such as the Mambana – Felicidad anthem on Soulfuric Trax, and these days, new school dance music fans would never associate the two of you. What has motivated you not to follow the trends of epic house/tech rhythms of your native colleagues, and respectfully stay true to your original style?

Rasmus Faber: I believe me and Axwell are still simply expressing ourselves in a way that we both did back then as well. Axwell was all about energy even then, whereas I was and still am a musician. Times and trends change, but I believe we both are examples of two artists who move with their times, but only as long as we dont sacrifice our original nature.

I still admire Axwell a lot as a producer. Lot of people get kind of surprised when I say this, but I’ve never really been into listening to soulful house music that much. I much more enjoy listening to an Axwell track, cause he does things I can’t!

Whats cool about Steve and Sebastian is that they’ve always been into what they’re doing. Even back when soulful house was the big thing, they did their tough things, and because they stayed true to what they loved, they became succesful. I believe that is important for any creator really.

I must say I personally don’t really feel the term “polar opposites” that much. It suggests a correlation within the dance scene, which in my opinion diminishes the artistic value of the music slightly.

To me, I’m no more a polar opposite to Steve Angello, than I am to, say, Coldplay or Britney Spears. We are just creators making different kinds of music. I have high respect for anyone who makes great music, thats why I enjoy to listen to a track produced by someone in the Swedish House Mafia a lot more than I would listening to a mediocre soulful house track for example.

FHMDC: Let’s go back in time to the year of 2003 and the first days of Farplane Records, your well-respected record label. Tracks that we will never forget and still drop in our DJ sets include “Ever After” featuring Emily Mcewan and the unstoppable “Get Over Here” featuring Melo. Talk to us about your artistic vision at the time, the motivation to start the label, and what you were trying to accomplish during this time period of dance music.

Rasmus Faber: To be honest, I didn’t have the motivation to start a label back then, I got helped into it by Simon Dunmore, who was my manager back then. I’m really happy I did it though, and very thankful to Simon for pushing me! It has given me lots of freedom over the years. As for those tracks, they are truly “children of their time” so to speak, the enviroment was good for that kind of music back then.

As for what I tried to accomplish, it is the same thing that I try to accomplish nowadays, when I’m making a house track. When I made those track some of my musician friends asked me: “Why do you have to put a loud beat to those nice tracks, why not make just a latin, jazz, or soul-tune?”

The reason is that I like the accessibility that is introduced when a track becomes a dance tune. It is true that many of my songs would have been good as latin tunes or soul tunes, but they wouldn’t have been so accessible. I believe music is about personal expression, but also about communication, and therefore, “accessibility” is a positive word.

However, I wouldn’t sacrifice my musical message for accessibility, and thats why I haven’t tried to make harder and tougher tunes, or electro, to adjust to the trends of dance music. Making house music for me is about finding the perfect balance between musical message, and dancefloor accessibility. It was back then, and it still is. Recent years, it has been a lot more difficult to do that, because the definition of “dancefloor accessibility” changed so much, so finding that middle ground was very difficult for me (god knows I tried!).

This kind of goes back to the discussion about Axwell, I think back then he was also reaching for the same thing, where his priority was more on the energy side, but he chose a frame for it that became his middle ground. As the trend moved, his energy message got even easier to express. Had the trends instead shifted towards a much more jazzy sound, he might have found himself in the slightly more difficult position I have been in for example. Thats just the way it is.

But I feel actually things are going the right way again (for me, that is); good, innovative songs are coming back, and I’m very excited about the near future of dance music!

FHMDC: The Rasmus Faber YouTube channel, in our opinion, is a fantastic marketing tool for your live performance artistry. We believe the visual awareness of what listeners receive when Rasmus Faber performs “live”, or through DJing, showcases something that educated house music fans should witness at least once in their life time. Have you found that utilizing social media has helped the amount of demand for your live gigs?

Rasmus Faber: I honestly don’t know how much an impact social networking really has. I don’t think anyone really knows that. I do get a good feeling from all the nice comments I get from those videos though, so its a good creative spark! I guess its also good for people so they can see what you do, in my case djing with a keyboard, for others maybe they’re doing crazy things in Ableton or something. Its good that people can see what you’re doing different, cause its not always so easy to notice just by hearing the sets.

FHMDC: There is a very distinct element to most of your original productions, which is the unbelievable energy that blooms and romances dance floors. It is an undeniable injection of positive vibes when Rasmus Faber performs live that we believe is a timeless quality rarely seen in the ever-trendy electronic dance music world. What motivates the to make the type of music you produce today as a solo artist or with a specifically chosen set of talented musicians?

Rasmus Faber: Even though some of my work is more known than others, I’ve been producing quite a broad range of material, even some quite techy stuff, or things that are very mellow and non-housey. I kind of think of it all as different types of communication with music really, and I don’t think too much about style, but more in terms of different expressions that form a sort of creative pallete. Different tracks can contain different amounts of each expression, but since all expressions are part of yourself, they all make sense to you creatively.

I’d say I have two main expressions that I utilize more than anything else. One is basically to use live instruments to create grooves, often kind of merging latin-type rhythms with some funk or soul-grooves, and other styles too. Trying to find sort of common things between the styles, where they can meet, and new mixtures can appear. I guess thats kind of apparent in my music.

The other one is a bit more abstract to explain. I have a harmony inside me that I really want to express in my music as much as possible. It has something to do with the feeling of hope. Also it can be described a bit like “goosebumps-harmony” (at least to me). A very positive vibe, but there’s also some melancholy to it. You can find it quite a lot in movie scores, but it can be found here and there in all different kinds of music. I sometimes feel like I have a purpose or even a duty to make music with this harmonic feeling, and also reaching deeper to find the essence of that emotion, like an alchemist searching for the Philosopher’s Stone. Like if there was some higher goal to be reached by doing so. Its a bit weird I guess…

FHMDC: FunkyHouseMusic.com recently interviewed an artist by the name of Jay-J from New York – USA who has spent the majority of his music production career focused on the organic, soulful side of house music. He claimed in the interview “there are many DJ’s and producers who used to be able to make a decent living in this niche industry of soulful house music and now find it hard to survive. I can’t tell the future but I it seems that soon the music will be relegated to hobby status for many of us as we ponder what’s next in our careers.” Do you feel soulful electronic music is facing a challenging period?

Rasmus Faber: Jay-J is a good friend and we’ve swapped remixes in the past, he’s a great producer. I can understand where he’s coming from saying that. However, I’ve never really felt like I’m a part of that soulful music scene from a creative standpoint.

I’m a musician making house music, and therefore being labelled as a soulful house artist comes pretty close to mind, but I’ve never felt that way myself, its simply not my taste. I personally don’t like the term “soulful house” too much, as it seems to suggest that the creators should stick to certain production methods that to me aren’t very relevant.

To me, a good song is what matters. Now, I’m a musician, and therefore I tend not to like to make songs that are much too simple, but I believe music is also about communication, and therefore there has to be a certain amount of relevance to what you do. Now I believe an artist can achieve this by being totally unique, or by being part of a scene, and sometimes somewhere in between. If you’re a part of a scene though, that scene has got to move with the times. If you’re aiming for unique, well, then you just have to do your shit and don’t care about what anyone thinks. But then you also have to completely stop relying on the scene itself to carry you.

Producers of dance music have a huge help from being part of a scene, compared to creators of other music, I think people often don’t realize that. What creators of dance music have to consider is that what we create if we are within a dance sub-scene, is driven largely by the club scene, and that introduces things that have very little to do with music as such. People wanting to get wasted and flirt on the weekends are the economic driving force behind the club scene, and therefore the artistic merits of any “scene” needs to be toned down in my opinion.

A great producer is a great producer, regardless of genre. I believe a lot of great, innovative music would be made if some producers would see themselves more as a rockband or a singer-songwriter, there by gaining a lot more creative self-dependance, more of a “me against the world” kind of attitude.

FHMDC: What is your goal with the “Platina Jazz” project? This seems to be a different direction from what we are used to seeing your brand associated with.

Rasmus Faber: I am doing a lot of things which goes outside of my brand, especially lately, such as producing albums for other artists, making new styles of music, etc. Since my background is very broad, I never really had the intention of branding myself.

The Platina Jazz project was initiated by my Japanese record label. In Japan, my career is a lot less branded, and my albums and singles are seen more as part of the music scene as a whole, rather than just the dance scene. Over there they are also not as sensitive to artists doing different styles as we are here in Europe. This particular project was so much fun to do! I got to be a producer in the classical sense of the word, overseeing the recording, arranging, and developing the concept, but not actually being a musician. I also got to mix a jazz record, which was so much fun, and a great learning experience!

FHMDC: Can you give our readers some insight on the major hardware and software components of your studio?

Rasmus Faber: I’m on Mac and Logic 9, with loads of plugins. I’m a bit of a gearhead, both with software and hardware, and I LOVE mics and acoustic recordings!

Right now some of the hardware stuff I got is an LA2A, Urei 1178, Thermionic Culture Rooster, AEA TRP, Neve 1073DPA. Got a lot of love for my patch bay as well. Mic wise I use a Flea-47, Brauner Phantom C, Royer SF12, Shure Sm7′s and SM57s, EV RE20, AKG 451s, and a bunch of other stuff.

I use a Genelec 8040 with a 7050 sub for monitoring, and 8020s for nearfield, plus a pair of Avantones, which are awesome. Instrument wise I got a Fender Rhodes, a couple of analog synths, a marimba, lots of percussion and other toys. Getting the sub to the genelecs, plus having the speakers and the room calibrated by a pro, is probably the single best investment I’ve made in the studio (and it wasn’t even nearly the most expensive either).

I recommend everyone to really look over their acoustics before starting to spend to much money on metal tubes and boxes.

FHMDC: If you could only name one artist (musical or non-musical) who is currently “inspiring” you, who would that be?

Rasmus Faber: Currently, I have a lot of love for the Japanese anime film score composer Yoko Kanno. Its rare to find other composers where you feel they are sort of reaching for the same emotions that you yourself are trying to reach, but Yoko Kanno is one such artist, and she does it so well!

FHMDC: When it comes to producing house music, do you have any recommendations on who we should be checking out in 2010?

Rasmus Faber: Actually I really don’t, but I’d love some recommendations myself! Though I do love that Full Intention are making music together again!

FHMDC: What’s in store for the future? Any details you can share about upcoming releases, tours, partnerships, artist/mix CD releases, and/or videos…

Rasmus Faber: At the moment I’m on a month-long tour in Japan, so hopefully there’ll be some new nice dj videos coming from there. I got a new album out here, with some pretty rare stuff, called “So Far 3″ so if anyone is into imported cds…

I just released a digital compilation which I’m pretty excited about, with remixes of my stuff thats been done over the years. I feel really humbled by all the great producers who’ve graced my songs with their production skills!

Other than that I will start on my next album this summer, and aiming to be finished by early next year. I have some plans for how its gonna sound, and I’m quite excited! There might also be occasional house singles coming out as well.

FHMDC: Thank you for taking the time to accept our interview, and for supporting the Funkyhousemusic.com mission. We truly appreciate your effort, and wish you the best of luck with your future endeavors. To learn more about Rasmus Faber, please visit http://www.rasmusfaber.com/

Interview By: Suneel

WMC 2010 Exclusive: Add2Basket @ The Bentley

Dave Cortex — Sun, 11 Apr 2010 23:56:15 +0000

Exclusive FunkyHouseMusic.com footage of Add2Basket in the mix @ The Bentley (rooftop) in South Beach.

WMC 2010 Exclusive: Luke Fair @ The Bentley

Dave Cortex — Sun, 11 Apr 2010 23:50:28 +0000

Check out this exclusive footage of Toronto’s Luke Fair laying down some sick funky grooves at the rooftop of The Bentley in South Beach.

WMC 2010 Exclusive: Andy Caldwell @ Afternoon Delight

Dave Cortex — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 20:53:05 +0000

Andy Caldwell gets the crowd moving at Afternoon Delight’s 5-year anniversary @ The Beach Plaza Gardens. This is how to do a WMC party the right way – outdoors, sunshine, and great music all equating to an amazing vibe. More next year please!

More videos available at the Afternoon Delight Facebook Group.

Implicit vs Suneel – Juno Funky House Podcast – Episode 3

Suneel — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 18:49:58 +0000

Episode 3 of the Interactive Podcast series between FunkyHouseMusic.com & Junodownload.com is now live and available for download.

The track list and sequencing was designed for the home/headphone listening experience focusing on a wide range of funky house sub-genres. Implicit & Suneel weave through layers of lush funk to uplifting French house all the while integrating an endless array of organic instrumentation and vocal styles. Check out what Junodownload.com had to say about the mix:

US selectors Implicit & Suneel from FunkyHouseMusic.com explore the realms of funky house in the third installment of their Juno podcast series. The recording features a diverse range of high quality 4/4 flavors with an overlay of addictive, feel-good funk.

The podcast includes tracks and mixes from across the funky house genre including deeper elements from Chuck Love, Ralf Gum, Dubtribe Sound System, Dennis Ferrer, and Rasmus Faber before taking off with stompers from Michael Gray, Alex Kenji, Jay-J, Fred Falke, and The Groovelab.

Implicit vs Suneel – Juno Funky House Podcast – Episode 3

FHMDC Exclusive Interview: Jay-J

Suneel — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 14:00:20 +0000

Jay-J | Composer, Producer, DJ

Undoubtedly a legend in house music, his career spans with over 150 releases, he’s won a Grammy® nomination, had his own Coke® bottle for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, DJ’d the 2006 MTV® AVMAs and launched two comp series for Defected.

As a producer, you’ll see his name on the biggest releases from Ultra, Moulton Studios, OM, Naked Music and Defected. He’s remixed artists from Jill Scott to Joss Stone and has collaborated with producers from Kaskade to Miguel Migs. On his new label, Shifted Music, you’ll find releases by Jay-J as well as some of the best talent he’s discovered while sharing his passion for House Music around the globe.

FunkyHouseMusic.com had the pleasure to to connect with the one and only master of quality, vocal funky house to discuss a variety of past, present, and future topics revolving around the Funky House genre. We hope you enjoy this dialogue.

FHMDC: Please describe how it all began – your love for music, instruments, and performance. What was it about house music that originally drew you to it? If it’s possible, provide the readers of FunkyHouseMusic.com who aren’t as familiar with your history with a short synopsis of how you became the multi-talented and prolific artist you represent today.

Jay-J: Growing up I played a few instruments. The first one I picked up was the saxophone, then later the guitar. I stuck with the guitar for several years. I really don’t know what drew me to music; it’s just something I was interested in. I played guitar through high school and messed around with a few bands but I also started DJ-ing in high school. I was DJ-ing at our school’s radio station, which played rock and heavy metal. From there I got a job DJ-ing at a roller skating rink.

At the rink I started working the Saturday afternoon shift and over time moved into working evenings and nights and for those shifts the music could be at times a bit more cutting edge so I started playing some dance music that was made for the clubs. At that time the main music library was 45′s but there was a small stack of 12″s that the nighttime guys would play from for the more underground sound.

From there it just grew to playing parties and events and eventually playing in a little dive bar in SF during my college years and soon, in 1991, landed a spot opening at a real club. A few years later I started to get back into music production. I was doing a bunch of recording and song writing in my guitar days and after a few years focusing on the dj thing I headed back into the studio and released my first house music record in 1994. From there it has been a continual journey to become a better producer and more proficient in the studio and being a student of my craft as much as a professional.

FHMDC: San Francisco and sophisticated funky house seem to go together like peanut butter and jelly. Names that emerged from that scene include the likes of Mark Farina, Miguel Migs, Dubtribe Sound System, and many more. What was and still is so special about that environment that seemed to be a breeding ground for dance music magic?

Jay-J: I think the environment, climate, diversity, openness, and surroundings all contribute. This also is a testament to the DJs who came before us. The who’s who of San Francisco house grew up listening to these DJ’s in the clubs. We all learned to love this music listening to the likes of Jeno, Pete Avila, Aaron O, Doc Martin and others who championed the early incarnations of the funky SF sound. We then carried the torch. But ultimately it was a group of likeminded creative people who seemed to enjoy a similar style and or sound and who simply set out to make music they were proud of.

FHMDC: The Jay-J resume is an endless array of jaw-dropping accomplishments that most producers will never be lucky enough to garner. From our research, you’ve performed at the world’s premier club venues such as Pacha – Ibiza and Ministry of Sound, visited destinations such as Dubai, New Zealand, and Brasil, and even rocked the MTV Video Music Awards in Australia. Amazing as that list of accomplishments is, what was it like to work for the Coca Cola WE8 project for the Beijing 2008 Olympics?

Jay-J: That was a fun project for sure. In the early stages of involvement I was given some drawings and 3D renderings of the bottle and the story behind it and of course a theme to write a song around. Happiness is the theme I was given and I felt that was perfect for the style of music I love to make which is very uplifting. I really had a great time collaborating with Lucy Woodward an amazing songwriter and even better singer and we had fun putting the project together.

It was interesting in that we were asked to document the process so we were taking pictures and saving the scraps of paper used to write the song and what not. It wasn’t until after the song was completed when I actually saw the bottle and the presentation booklet and CD and the packaging that I really saw how cool this project was. Then I heard from Berger, my manager, that in the Athlete’s Village there were listening stations built around 6 foot tall renditions of each bottle featuring the music we all created. Overall it was a greet project.

FHMDC: The names Jay-J and Latrice Barnett are music bliss for the veteran dance music fan with an appreciation for finely served vocal house. Please describe to us how this partnership of performance began.

Jay-J: My first studio, Moulton Street Studios, located on Moulton Street in SF had some problems with the city and landlord so we had to move and Chris Lum and I decided to take over a very large space to build new studios and once everything was up and running, after a long 6 month renovation and building process, I was at a point in my production that I wanted to work with a better quality of singer and I approached one of the best musicians I knew who was a bass player named Andrew Higgins.

I asked him whom he would want to sing on his album, someone he thought was talented and easy to work with, he mentioned Latrice so I contacted her and set a meeting. She was familiar with house music and as I was describing my style to her she replied “like Mark Farina style house”. I knew then she understood what I was talking about. Then we set up a time to record. The result of that first session was “Without Love” written by Chris Lum and me. She blew us away and I then set out to work with her more and more. We toured the world together and became really good friends having the time of our life creating music.

FHMDC:We recall a few WMCs ago Latrice and yourself throwing down together at the Defected event at Nikki Beach. The moment we heard “Keep On Risin’” live – we knew the production would have to return to the public re-interpreted through remix. The energy the track creates every time it is played is undeniable. 10 years later, and it has finally happened. What was it about 2010 and the current state of the dance music scene that motivated you to choose this time period to bring the classic back?

Jay-J: Actually it was started by a guy who did a re-edit/remix of the track and sent it to me on MySpace. I then thought it would be a good idea to update the song and see what happens so I enlisted a few friends Stacy Burket and Random Soul to help me create the updated versions. They all remembered the track and were more than willing to work on it with me. I am really happy with the result. I really enjoyed using my version as a more dance floor filling prime time remix, although it took me a while to get there. I had played around with several ideas over the course of a couple months revisiting the project and constantly changing things until I finally got it to the point I wanted.

2010 Jay-J’s Shifted Up Mix:

The Classic Original Version:

FHMDC: What is your collective opinion on the current state of the electronic dance music, its associated scene, and fans? Now that we are past the days of vinyl and CDs, has the digitalization age impacted how you view people digest and enjoy EDM?

Jay-J: This is an interesting point in time for electronic music. Never has there been more access to underground music and range of people who seek it out is ever increasing and broadening the listener base. Additionally, there has never been so much of this music around. There are so many labels and releases that at times the volume seems unbearable to those of us in the industry, but for the consumer the range is incredible.

The fan base is growing but the economics of the industry seems to be in a decline with music sales being in the low hundreds and gigs for soulful music being few and far between for many of us. People have also gotten used to getting the music for free and less likely to spend whatever money they have in this economy, either for the music itself or for the clubs where this music is prominent.

There are many DJ’s and producers who used to be able to make a decent living in this niche industry and now find it hard to survive. I can’t tell the future but I it seems that soon the music will be relegated to hobby status for many of us as we ponder what’s next in our careers. Fortunately, for those who enjoy the music there are plenty of new producers who are not yet disillusioned with the state of the industry replacing the seasoned veterans.

FHMDC: Can you give our readers some insight on the major hardware and software components of your studio?

Jay-J: My main production tool is Pro Tools software and hardware with many high end plug ins like Sonnox, McDSP, Massey and others. I work out of Flux studios in NY for mixing and recording and the high-end outboard gear available to me is pretty incredible from vintage, classic pultec Eq’s and compressors to mastering grade components.

Working in an acoustically sound room with great Focal monitors helps me reach the sound quality I expect to support my creative vision. Even though I get an incredible amount of work done at my home studio with a modest set up (Digi 003 rack, M Audio DMS2 speakers, Axiom Pro 49 controller) and some headphones (Sennheiser HD600). So the technology has gotten to the point where really good quality record can be made with small and relatively inexpensive set ups. I also use a Studio Electronics SE1X for a lot of sounds, mainly basses and leads as it’s a monophonic analog synth based on a moog and boy does it sound fat!

FHMDC: Considering your musical career, we assume you have had very “interesting” experiences along the way. Would you be willing to share an unforgettable story that you fondly recall?

Jay-J: I do remember that first session with Latrice and after recording the main parts of the song we had her do some ad lib takes. I just kept having her do more and more, not because we didn’t have enough but simply because I was in love with her voice and wanted to keep hearing her. Finally I had to stop and admit to her that we kept going just cause I was enjoying listening to her sing.

I have had many firsts along the way with my DJ gigs as well. Playing legendary venues like Ministry of Sound (London), Pacha (Ibiza), Zouk (Singapore), Southport Weekender (UK) have all been amazing and quite daunting those first times.

I also spent a lot of time working with a full band and recreating many of my records in a live setting with Latrice and some other incredible musicians and toured with them as well. In fact on the Keep On Rising 2010 package there is a Live mix that we recorded with a new arrangement using all live players. Touring with the band and recording with them was a great experience.

Hearing my music played by other DJs in clubs is also a very positive and uplifting experience, but being on the dance floor at the WMC for the Magic sessions and having both Louie Vega and Tony Humphries play my Jill Scott remix to thousands of house music lovers and watching the place erupt was an experience that will last a lifetime.

FHMDC: If you could only name one artist (musical or non-musical) who “inspired” you in 2009, who would that be?

Jay-J: There are a few for sure but the first two that come to mind are Jimpster (would love to work with him someday) and Dennis Ferrer. I think both of these guys have proven to be incredibly talented but also visionary in creating styles that others inspire to emulate and that’s a hard thing to do.

FHMDC: We noticed on iTunes that you offer a very rich Podcast series entitled Jay-J’s “Live From…” documenting your DJ sets while on tour. This is a gold mine of DJ mix sets, and we highly recommend the readers of this interview to check it out. With that said, your love for DJ-ing seems to be as strong as ever. What is your opinion on performance today as compared to earlier in your career? Do you find it equally satisfying? Has technology impacted your performance style? Do you find yourself wondering if dubstep is the next chapter for Jay-J? (We hope you take that last one amusingly)

Jay-J: I really enjoy capturing my live sets and I think the Live From concept is great way to present these mixes. I have the honor of visiting these great cities and great clubs all over the world and get to document these nights and present them to others who enjoy the same style of music I love. I still love DJ-ing and having a packed gig with a great sound system is the highlight of my career each and every time it occurs.

The technological advance have made the traveling much easier with CD’s and digital promos. I have yet to switch to a software based DJ solution but I feel it’s coming soon. I am preparing for tractor and now as I get promos and what not I make sure they are labeled properly and categorized and in my library then I burn a CD for my current gig but when I make the switch to Tracktor, if I do, I will at least have a solid group of recent tracks available.

FHMDC: When it comes to producing house music, do you have any recommendations on which we should be checking out in 2010?

Jay-J: The Australian guys Random Soul (Yogi and Husky) are making some great music and we have been working together for a couple years now. They recently started a label and are releasing some great work.

FHMDC: What’s in store for the future? Any details you can share about upcoming releases, tours, partnerships, artist/mix CD releases, and/or videos…

Jay-J: I am currently working on an all-electronic album. My last album “Love Alive” is filled with songs and vocals and live instruments and has a very warm and soulful sound. This new project is all about a more groove based production style with me doing all the music and many of the tracks have a more techie direction.

I am also about to release a Love Alive Remix Album with many of the remixes taken from the songs off “Love Alive” and the Remixers for that project are a stellar line up of great producers including DJ Meme, Ethan White (Tortured Soul), Random Soul guys, Soulmagic, Jon Cutler, Giom, Chuck Love, Harley & Muscle, Joshua Heath, Pete Moss, Jevne, Christian Alvarez, Emil Lane (up and coming producer with incredible style) and more…

We are also in the initial planning stages of a ReSouled Vol 3, Potentially mixed by Mark Farina so that will be exciting.

FHMDC: Thank you for taking the time to accept our interview, and for supporting the Funkyhousemusic.com mission. We truly appreciate your effort, and wish you the best of luck with your future endeavors. To learn more about Jay-J, please visit www.shiftedmusic.com

Interview by: Suneel

Exclusive Interview: Dubtribe Sound System

Suneel — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 07:07:03 +0000

Dubtribe Sound System is a San Francisco based electronic musical group who produced and performed live world wide between 1991 and 2005. Dubtribe consisted of singers Sunshine Jones and Moonbeam Jones, but also included many sit in and “on tour” musicians over the years.

Originally born in a rent party, Dubtribe Sound System distinguished themselves as performers by performing live for many hours, rather than replaying their recordings from dat tapes or portable computers, and touring without stopping, often bringing their own sound, lights, and traveling family with them. But unlike their few counterparts in North America, Dubtribe would depart from the warehouse movement and establish themselves in the mid 1990′s as a grass roots tour de force, refusing help, press, or money from any outside interests.

They arrived at a time when the world was in turmoil, the rave was a new idea which empowered people to gather and dance. Few followed the example set by Dubtribe, but many people were inspired to find their own road.

Dubtribe Sound System performed their supposed final live concert at Cielo, in New York City on December 1st 2005. Many friends and family were in attendance, it was the perfect ending to a wonderfully indepenent, situationist, and punk rock road far too few people choose to travel with the passion and love that Sunshine and Moonbeam have. However, they reunited on September 5, 2009 to play at the “Buzz Reunion 101″ event at Ibiza Nightclub in Washington, D.C. and have since announced their comeback…

When we discovered that Dubtribe was back, FunkyHouseMusic.com had to immediately leap to the opportunity to share some dialogue with the duo, and learn more. After witnessing a fantastic live performance at Cielo – NYC in January, we finally got their attention and we hope you enjoy this rare interview with Sunshine & Moonbeam.

FHMDC: As respective followers of your timeless sound since the 90’s, it is with great pleasure that you both have accepted our invitation for an interview. We clearly recall our first experiences witnessing your live performance style from legendary events such as Buzz @ The Capital Ballroom/Nation and M3’s Music Makes Magic @ The Edge in Washington DC and have continued to appreciate your sound ever since. We know the readers of FunkyHouseMusic.com will truly enjoy this shared dialogue. So without further delay, let’s get started!

Please describe how it all began – your love for music, instruments, and performance. What was it about house music that originally drew you to it? If it’s possible, provide the readers of FunkyHouseMusic.com who aren’t as familiar with your history with a short synopsis of how you became the multi-talented artists you represent today.

Sunshine: We began by playing in our living room. We were going out to a lot of parties and really digging the music. We made a lot of tapes and handed them out to people – promoters, dj’s and dancers. People loved the tapes – which were really just stream of consciousness performances – but there was absolutely no interest in bands or live performances. So we started something we just called “The Dubtribe Party.”

We handed out a little 2” x 2” card with our logo on it, and a phone number to call for an info line. 415 764-2903. The party was at our flat, and people started to come. It was a lot of fun, but quickly got out of hand. So we tried to move it to a club, or some other place, but people didn’t want to come to a club back then, they wanted to come to our flat where they were free to do whatever they wanted. We did play a few times in various places, but it was the Dubtribe Party which really went off.

Henrik and Geive from Spundae were just beginning and were also having trouble getting people to come to their party in the basement of DV8, and they asked us to help them. So we started having the Dubtribe Party in the basement of their event. The basement was packed, and we played for hours. That was where we were really born. Soon we were playing at all kinds of events, parties and clubs. Urb magazine wrote about us about the same time Onionz had gotten his hands on one of our tapes. Between Urb’s article and Onionz telling everyone on the east coast about us, we booked a little tour of the east coast. We quit our jobs, Moonbeam bought a van, and we were off. We never really looked back from there.

For a few years we were just a live band. We didn’t record, or really know how to record. ‘Sound System’ and ‘Selene Songs’ – actually recorded the same year – were really just live to tape albums. We had no idea what we were doing. It was Jonah Sharp from Spacetime Continuum who parked me one day and said that if I spent half the time in the studio that I spent touring we would actually make really good recordings. I really took that to heart, and we got a computer, and a dat machine and started learning to produce in the studio.

Moonbeam: It all began in a closet on Bryant Street with a Korg M1 and an EMAX II sampler. There was a bunch of us rehearsing every week hoping to get some gigs. House parties had taken a strong hold on the clubs in San Francisco. We went out a lot!! We abandoned the band we had begun and formed something totally different. We got MMT-8 sequencers and Dubtribe was born. The whole thing came as a complete surprise to me. I didn’t know much about house music and club culture and much less about the former underground rave movement. But once I “got it” it was infectious. Nowhere in popular music culture was anything so unique and creative happening. I would say that is true even today. To have been a part of the explosion of rave and house culture was a gift. I loved it. Never felt so much community before nor since. So to get in a van and play our version of house music to people in every little dive and dirty warehouse across North America was a mind-expanding experience. I miss it and love it still.

FHMDC: Dubtribe Sound System ended a 14-year run in performance in 2005. For 4 years we thought we would never enjoy the Dubtribe experience ever again. Then in 2009, the duo reunited on September 5, 2009 to play at the “Buzz Reunion 101″ event at Ibiza Nightclub in Washington, D.C. Furthermore, Dubtribe has a very busy schedule emerging for 2010 and beyond. What was the motivation to return to performance as a group?

Sunshine: I never stopped making music or performing live. After Dubtribe ended, I undertook DJ-ing seriously, and began to produce on my own. Most of the work was an obvious counterpoint to what DSS had done. I sang, and I spoke, and I re edited on the fly, but the sound was decidedly less percussive, and less “inspirational.” I wanted to express something else, and find my own way.

Booking Sunshine as a solo artist was not the same as booking Dubtribe. I did play some of the most amazing shows of my life in that time – Deep Space with FK was hands down my ultimate DJ gig. I could have retired forever after that show, I knew at the time, and have continued to believe that it just doesn’t get any better than that.

During that time I did a one-year residency at Love in New York City. I brought my weekly show Sunday Soul to love once a month. Sunday Soul is a themed Internet transmission where I pick a theme each week, and apply myself to it. One week at Love the theme was VOICE. I invited Jenifa Mayanja, Monique Bingham and Moonbeam to please come and talk at the forum – a session before the party – and to sing with me while I played. To my surprise Moonbeam agreed. Unfortunately she couldn’t make it in the end, but it opened a dialog between us about the possibility of working together. Since we work so well together, the rest just kind of came from there.

Moonbeam: The re-emergence of Dubtribe was inevitable, in my mind. Sunshine and I lost our way for a while and had to part. Dubtribe was always bigger than the two of us, but, personally, I had nothing left to give. I needed to find my reason again. A lot of time has passed and a lot of healing has gone on for me spiritually, emotionally, mentally….you name it. And I think Sunshine and mine relationship as friends have come full circle. That was critical. In addition, I think performing together again solidifies and crystallizes the fact that Sunshine and I will always be united through our music and our history. We are family. So, Sunshine and I were talking last August and I was like “Do you want play a Dubtribe show again?” And he was like “Sure. Do you think anyone will book us?” And I said, I would ask a few people and let’s see what happens. We truly were not sure if anyone really cared anymore. It is wonderful to see that they really do. ☺

FHMDC: There is a very distinct element to most of your original productions, which is the unbelievable energy that blooms and romances dance floors. It is an undeniable injection of positive vibes when Dubtribe performs live that we believe is a timeless quality rarely seen in the ever-trendy electronic dance music world. Is it possible to describe what artistic influences have impacted you both to write music the way you do?

Sunshine: Thank you. That’s truly a compliment. My influences are pretty broad, and don’t have a lot to do with house or techno. What influenced us from the start was really the party. San Francisco in the late 80’s and early 90’s was not known for it’s production, or it’s DJ’s. We were a city and a community who really knew how to throw a party. We were dancing on beaches, in filthy little warehouses, and literally anywhere and everywhere you could fit a sound system. Those parties were so inspirational, and so amazing that what I wanted to do was bring that feeling everywhere we went. It sprang more from wanting to celebrate how wonderful it made me feel, and my desire to participate in it beyond just being a dancer. I never really keyed into the egoism of the DJ as a superstar thing, I’ve always thought that was lacking. What I really loved was the ‘feeling’ in the room, that sense of unity, and the experience of being completely anonymous and totally connected at the same time. Nothing else really creates that feeling like being in a crowd of people dancing to house music at 4 am. So perhaps my biggest personal influence was just the blur of music being mixed, and the smudge of myself that we left behind on those beaches and warehouses.

Moonbeam: Artistic influences? Everything from the music in my formative years like the Bee Gees, Carly Simon, Carole King, Tina Turner, Everything Disco!!, to New Wave, Soul, Brian Eno, Sade, Miles Davis, Nina Simone…..all that and more. And life – life experience weighs heavily into what I write and what I say. Now I just hear music in my head. Words I want to say….melodies I want to hear — and the vehicle for that is house music.

FHMDC: We noticed at your January 2010 performance at Cielo (New York City) that your live stage set-up has altered as compared to the past. As innovative technology continues to evolve, how do you see your performance style being impacted? Do you plan to embrace the innovation?

Sunshine: It’s true. I’m using a Mac. It’s a whole lot better than an MMT-8. We used a pair of the Alesis MMT-8’s as our primary sequencers for many years. They crash, the buttons stick, and cause endless trouble. Switching to a mac has been both liberating, and challenging. I’ve got a copy of Ableton Live, and a copy of Traktor Pro as well. I really don’t use Live that much because it’s more of a tool, which locks me into a tempo, and asks me to figure things out ahead of time. Traktor is more like mixing, and allows me to do whatever I want.

The difference is really that regardless of what we’re playing it needs to already be recorded, and available on the fly. To that end, I really preferred the MMT-8 experience. Using the endless pile of virtual instruments, effects, and sequencers available now I suppose I could re create that experience using Live, and perhaps I will, but these are really interesting times in terms of technology. I wrote our only new song “Who’s the bad ass?” on my iPhone using TechnoBox – a silly 303/909 app – and we played it for the fist time in DC. So anything can happen, and anything is possible.

In terms of impact on style and performance, I think that what we are doing right now is reviewing. We’re looking at the music we’ve written and performing it again. We are testing the waters to see if we want to do this again, and if anyone wants to come see it. So we’re not worried about being purists right now, we’re mostly interested in dancers, and our own hearts. Is this inspirational? Are we taking something positive and productive away from the experience? If we decided to continue, and write a new album, we’ll absolutely find the best way to produce the new and old music on the fly in our performances.

Moonbeam: Gotta move with the times I guess. There’s SO much innovation and technology to create music today. It’s mind blowing. There are limitations as well as incredible leaps of progress you make with it. So, yeah, evolution is necessary. Also, the complications of modern transportation is challenging for all of us. Being compact makes it easier to get from point a to point b.

FHMDC: There is a rumor that Dubtribe is beginning to work on new production material. Is this true? If it is, is it possible to describe your production workflow and what your methodologies are to approaching a new original song?

Sunshine: That’s something we’re talking about, yes. How we’ll do it – being bi-coastal – is still to be determined. For the time being, this year, we’re just seeing if there’s really any interest in us doing a new album. Times have changed, and there are no major labels beating down our door with recording budgets for us. So whatever we do it will probably be something we have to work out on our own.

Moonbeam: Yes. I believe new music is on our horizons. Methodologies are sure to be challenging as they have always been. The creative process is a mysterious one. The joining of two creative streams from two different people is usually a very intense experience. I am not really sure how we’ll do it. But I believe we will.

FHMDC: Considering your musical careers, we assume you both have had very interesting experiences along the way. Would you be willing to share an unforgettable story that you fondly recall that has made performance such an important piece of the Dubtribe experience?

Sunshine: The best moments really just kind of happened magically. It’s really much too easy to remember the absurd, and the supremely difficult things that happen. For me the most memorable moments are ones like the Starscape Festival in Baltimore where everyone just gathered and drummed, and danced and really celebrated the moment. I wish I could explain it better than that…

There was this huge Drum and Bass area, and a pretty small House area. Drum and Bass had been talking a lot about replacing house, and the kids were really into it. It felt bad. Like bad neighbors moving in to try and take your back yard away. I was personally really threatened at the time. But when we started to play, literally everyone gathered into the little house area and picked up a drum. The sun was rising, and everyone was smiling, and dancing and really giving him or herself to the moment. It was a life changing moment in time.

Another similar event was the Alachua County Music Harvest. Our friend Simon Semrani set up this festival in the Florida forest, under a full moon. We played and something mystical happened. We just totally broke free, and the whole festival came unhinged. There was this police officer sitting on the edge of the stage with her arms folded and a scowl on her face. I focused on her, and aimed my words at her stonewall energy. A couple of times she turned around and looked at me like “What?” but by the end of the 3-4 hour set, she was dancing on the stage. Literally everyone in that forest was wide-awake and present. It was one of the most beautiful things I have ever experienced in my life.

It’s a lot like our music. You really had to be there to really understand what I’m saying. Thee are dozens of those amazing moments in my heart from over the years. The tent at the World Electronic Music Festival was incredible; those Detroit and Toronto boys in baseball hats with their arms folded in defiance were hatless and screaming at the end of our set. A corn field in Kansas, an illegal beach party in Florida, a tiny warehouse in Manhattan, places which you might never even expect to go which were just packed with people who were ready to open their hearts, and dance, and join us in the moment. Unforgettable, and truly life-changing moments for me not only as an artist, or a performer, but also as a human being.

Moonbeam: Performance has always been critical to me in terms of the Dubtribe experience. In the early days, I would scribble down some lyrics to music we worked on in the studio for our “new live set” that we would take on the road and check it out. So much of my inspiration for where a song would go came from the live experience. What worked in the room. Songs were always evolving….growing….changing.

In the beginning, I hid behind the equipment and people really didn’t even know I was singing. They thought it was a sample. I have to say that I can’t really recall one specific moment – it was for me an ongoing evolution of finding my place and my voice in what we were doing. The experience of being on the spot in live performance shaped me profoundly and directed my voice and style to where it is today.

Sunshine: Personally I really love that we have exhaled as a movement. These are deeply inspirational times. I love what’s happening in Europe right now, slower tempos, and real challenges to the dance floor. Artists like LSB, Prins Thomas, Lindstrom, Low Motion Disco, Aeroplane, and the like have knocked my socks off as a DJ and as a dancer. I also really admire what Spun has been doing with Rong.

I’m even proud of Daft Punk, LCD Soundsystem, and other large-scale artists who have really just been taking things over the top, but not losing the essence of what’s important about getting together. Daft Punk because they are so beautifully forward and out front for a pair of French guys who won’t show their faces, and LCD Soundsystem because they’ve paired the obvious punk rock ethics of house and techno with really groovy music and the truth about how we talk to each other. Their cynicism is actually really refreshing to me. I think it’s really healthy that the “club” idea is just about extinct. I’m ready to be inspired by something a lot more creative than background music.

Moonbeam: I don’t’ know. I don’t really know what’s going on anymore. : ) It feels like it did when we first began. I club culture with lots of people getting dressed up and going out for a night of partying and dancing. There’s nothing wrong with that. I think that electronic music has a more mainstream crowd than ever, which is a good thing. I don’t believe there is any kind of “movement” like we grew up in. There is no focus. I’m not sure there should be, but I know I’m always looking for more in terms of content. And so if I can’t find it, I would like to create it.

FHMDC: What are Dubtribe’s goals for the future?

Sunshine: I’m really just taking it a day at a time. What’s next is next, and that’s where I’ll be. I’d love to make more music, and reach more people, but I think that if I’m looking for a community to express that in then I’m probably making the same old mistakes I have already learned from. I’m looking to take inspiration from the things that actually inspire me, and let the rest go. I’ve spent much too much time in the past in opposition to things, which simply don’t inspire me. Seems like a colossal waste of my time to me. So in terms of goals, I think I’d just like to carry on.

Moonbeam: We’re going to play some more shows. Then we’ll see what happens next.

FHMDC: When it comes to producing house music, do you have any recommendations on who we should be checking out in 2010?

Sunshine: Right now anything goes. I’m really inspired by DJ’s who are roaring off into their own spaces and challenging people. Jenö is a hero, as are Doc Martin, and Spun. But look to Woolfy. Look toward David Bumpstead and the Disco Not Disco crew in London. Look to Chateau Flight, Shit Robot, Padded Cell, Mud, The Revenge, Jim Rivers, Crazy P, Ytre Rymden Dansskola, Phonique, Bogdan Irkük, Lindstrom, Lake Heartbeat, and everyone who is defying boundaries and breaking all the rules for inspiration right now. Look there because they are amazing. Look there because they are blowing my mind.

Moonbeam: I love Woolfy! I still listen to a lot of ambient – Loscil is a current favorite of mine.

FHMDC: Thank you for taking the time to accept our interview, and for supporting the Funkyhousemusic.com mission. We truly appreciate your effort, and wish you the best of luck with your future endeavors.

Interview By: Suneel

Exclusive Video: Frankie Knuckles – Performing Live @ Basic NYC

Suneel — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:22:10 +0000

Frankie Knuckles (born January 18, 1955, New York) is an American DJ, record producer and remix artist. He played an important role in developing house music as a Chicago DJ in the 1980s and he helped to popularize house music in the 1990s, with his work as a producer and remixer. In 2005, Knuckles was inducted into the Dance Music Hall of Fame for his achievements as a DJ.

FunkyHouseMusic.com had the absolute pleasure to record snippets of the legendary Frankie Knuckles performing live @ Basic NYC. We hope you enjoy this sample of the vibe heavy experience that this pioneer brings every time he hits the stage!

Hatiras – Spaced Invader 2010

Suneel — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 04:08:42 +0000

FunkyHouseMusic.com proudly presents one of our top picks to blow up at WMC 2010. We couldn’t be more excited as this package has anthem alert written all over it for a multitude of reasons. Both new and old school music fans alike will appreciate the importance of this new dance floor weapon as it re-establishes itself among the elite choons we are bearing witness to during the current disco house revival. But before we begin with the dissection, let’s take a brief history lesson…

Back in 2001 Hatiras’ “Spaced Invader” was exalted as one of the biggest tunes of the new millennium. It received 2 nods as BBC Radio One’s “Essential New Tune” by Pete Tong. It was heavily supported by top jocks including The Chemical Brothers, Erick Morillo, Roger Sanchez, etc. The remixes came from the heavyweights of the electronic music world: Darren Emerson, Olav Basoski, King Unique, Ian Pooley, CZR and Mr. G. Massive underground remixes by drum and bass legends J Majik, Ed Rush and Optical and High Contrast stirred up a frenzy and spawned a new genre. The tune released through Defected Records (UK), Ministry of Sound (Australia), Universal Music (Canada), News (GAS) and International House Records (US); it was a top ten UK hit, topped the Coolcuts chart and playlists worldwide and earned Hatiras his first of two Canadian Juno Awards (the equivalent of the US Grammys) and a SOCAN award for most radio play.

Now, a decade later, DJs, artists and the press worldwide are raving about the resurgence of filtered disco house. Cut-ups of old disco records and familiar samples are resurfacing with that classic sound. The time couldn’t be better to update one of the anchor tunes of that era with a fresh new package of 2010 remixes. The initial batch of “Spaced Invader” remixes are split into 2 packages that boast reworks by an international cast of producers that are truly some of the hottest, best selling and most relevant names in house today. On remix pack 1: Hatiras (Canada), Olivier Giacomotto (France), Malente (Germany), Olav Basoski (Holland) and Nom De Strip (UK) all smash the tune into this decade, each with a unique approach. Remix pack 2 (coming soon) consists of dancefloor crushing reworks by Tim Healey (UK), Santiago & Bushido (US), Kid Dub vs Eric Volta (France), Robb G (Canada) and more to be announced.

FunkyHouseMusic.com has luckily received the promo package, and here’s our exclusive interpretative breakdown by mix of package 1:

Hatiras 2010 Vocal Mix

Kicking off the package is the original innovator himself – Hatiras – creating a new interpretation and let us tell you – its just as slammin’ as the original. Hatiras is in classic form as he efficiently approaches the track design with the A.D.D. dance floor current state of mind. Keeping intact all the ingredients that made the original so effective, the remix updates the listening experience with added epic attributes to one of the most memorable build ups in electronic dance music history. Our key observation is that Hatiras did a masterful job of ensuring the “special sauce” of the song remained, while implementing new masterfully crafted details to add incremental value to the listening experience.

Malente Remix

The Nu Disco/Indie re-interpretation comes from Germany and the red hot Malente. Adding a variety of new elements, we forecast the new crop of ravers, club heads, hipsters, and everything in between will be twisting bodies in uncontrollable fashion as they discover this gem. An excellent recruitment by Hatrax Records, and a very strong addition to the package.

Nom De Strip Remix

If you aren’t familiar with the name, then you aren’t doing your research as Nom De Strip is 1/2 of the Stupid Fresh project. Awww yeah – now we’ve got your attention. Hatrax Records nails another recruitment as we are delighted to hear a stutter attack of funky sound with the vocal used minimally, but to deviating effect. This is a twisted interpretation aimed straight at the underground. We look forward to hearing more from Nom De Strip as he continues to explore a solo path of production.

Olav Basoski Remix

If you’ve been following uptempo house music over the years, you know this name to be a lethal addiction in your music searches month in and month out. Olav is a flat out legend in the international house scene and hails as one of the most innovative dance music minds to derive from the Netherlands. This remix takes an interesting turn for the package as Olav churns out a tension building piece, that leaves the mind and ears salivating. An intensely mental experience that showcases Olav’s experience in the game, and holistic understanding that in-your-face stormers aren’t the only way to write a memorable track.

Olivier Giacomotto Remix

Representing for the French comes an unusual yet tasteful tech house interpretation from the very well established Olivier Giacomotto. The remix slowly builds in typical tech house style with breakdowns that tease of explosions, but then drop into minimal hysteria that should drive club floors mad. Hatrax Records was intelligent to include this version in the package to get the expanded exposure into another underground segment. Well executed and not to be slept on…

Overall, Hatrax records has a very hot release ready to fire on the floors of Miami WMC 2010. We expect a high degree of attention and media created around the resurrected anthem, and greatly look forward to package 2 of the release. We can only hope the disco and funky house genres will benefit immensely this year from Hatrax Records’ wicked contribution to club land.

Exclusive Video: Dubtribe Soundsystem Performing Live @ Cielo (NYC)

Suneel — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 18:18:31 +0000

FunkyHouseMusic.com exclusive video coverage of the legendary house music act – Dubtribe Soundsystem – performing at Cielo NYC. The video provides a snapshot of the unique talent that this duo has provided the electronic dance music scene over the past 18 years. The term “timeless” seems to be an appropriate adjective for this group, and the rumor on the street is they may be gearing up to produce new material in the near future. We can only hope…

No related posts.

Implicit & Suneel – Juno Funky House Podcast – Episode 2

Implicit — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 23:07:03 +0000

Implicit and Suneel from FunkyHouseMusic.com in collaboration with Juno, the world’s largest dance music retailer, are back with their next Funky House podcast episode. Download iTunes, click the link, and get your groove on! Here’s what Juno had to say about their next installment:

Episode 2 of our Funky House Podcast series continues with tastemakers Implicit & Suneel from FunkyHouseMusic.com taking us on a winter-lush journey of the past month’s deeper organic gems and peak-hour weapons. The recording includes tracks and mixes from across the funky house production spectrum including Rasmus Faber, Joey Negro, Grant Nelson, The Shapeshifters, Knee Deep, Hot Mouth and more…

Full info: Juno Podcast: Implicit & Suneel

Download link: Funky House Podcast 02 on iTunes

Buy the tracks in the Podcast: Funky House Podcast 02 on JunoDownload

FunkyHouseMusic.com Version 2.0

Implicit — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 05:17:12 +0000

It’s been just over five years since we first launched FunkyHouseMusic.com and for a while it was becoming clear that it was time to upgrade from our original completely custom website format to a more standard, flexible, and extensible website architecture — one that would allow us to better connect with you our readers in this new age of social media. After hundreds of lines of code and many hours of hard work, we’ve managed to import all of our content from day one into our new site, which is founded on a WordPress back-end. It’s been a long time coming, but we are excited about all of the possibilities the future holds…

Here’s a short summary of some of the new features of FunkyHouseMusic 2.0:

Social Sharing
Want to share something with your social network? At the bottom of every post are links to share that post on many of the popular social networking and social bookmarking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, Digg, Tumblr, StumbleUpon, Reddit, and Yahoo Buzz.

Content Feeds
Get the latest house music updates not only from our website, but via our Twitter, Facebook, and RSS feeds which are synced up with our main site. This allows you to easily stay abreast of what is going on without having to leave your reader of choice.

Search
The search box at top of the page allows you to search the full text of the entire site — no need for an external search engine to find what you are looking for.

Tagging
See a post with your favorite artist? Click on that artist’s tag to quickly find other items containing that artist. See who’s getting talked about the most by browsing the most popular tags using our tag cloud on the sidebar to the right.

Comments
Want to speak your mind about a particular news item or track review? No problem — you can now post comments about each and every item on our website.

And much more to come in the future…

We’re really excited about this new format. If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions please contact us and let us know what you think.

Exclusive Review: Hatiras – More Disco EP

Suneel — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Hatiras
Title: More Disco EP
Label: Hatrax
Format: Digital
Release Date: 12/17/2009
Audio Sample: Listen

Those of you who have been listening to house music for long enough realize there was a golden era for filtered, funky house some time back. Labels like Roule, Work, Fresh Fruit, & We Rock featuring artists such as Thomas Bangaltar, Olav Basoski, Groove Lab, & Raw Man were the bee’s knees. And among some of those notable names, the rising star known to us as Hatiras was making waves with his international mega-hit – Spaced Invader.

In the past year, we have seen a disco & funky house revival of sorts across the world. And following the massive response to his recent ‘New Disco EP’ release, Hatiras answers your requests with more of the funk-filled, filtered-disco sound he’s a master at. This EP features 3 smashing tunes: the bumpin’ ‘Your Love’, the groovier, classic Chicago styled ‘Get Up’ and the dance floor shakin’ ‘Somebody Scream’!..

“Your Love”

In this reviewer’s opinion, this is the CHOON of the EP. The golden nugget, the Alabama slamma’, or better yet – the cat’s meow. This one is incredibly infectious, and makes us feel young and innocent again on the dance floor. Absolutely brilliant!

“Get Up”

Who knew Hatiras had this in him? An uppercut from the world of Chi-town, and a fine contribution for those looking for a quality late night groove, or an early set weapon to get the crowd interacting with the floor earlier than they forecasted.

“Somebody Scream”

A roller-coaster of filtered energy that provides the flexibility and nimbleness to blur the genre-crossing DJ sets, and find itself appearing when you least expect it. A fine contender within this package.

Overall, we have three distinctive cuts showcasing a variety of capabilities that should be a welcome addition to any DJ’s collection. Preview the tracks below, and grab them at your favorite EDM retailer Dec. 17th:

Juno & FunkyHouseMusic.com: Funky House Podcast 01

Suneel — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:12:34 +0000

Our new Funky House Podcast series kicks off with Implicit & Suneel (two of the driving forces behind FunkyHouseMusic.com) hand selecting and mixing down the past month’s essential new releases. The recording includes tracks and mixes from some of the genre’s finest including Armand Van Helden, Ursula 1000, Ducksauce, Danny Howells, Black Shadow, Audio Jacker, and more’..

Online Link: Juno & FunkyHouseMusic.com: Funky House Podcast 01

Exclusive Review: Claes Rosen – The Good Grooves EP

Dave Cortex — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Claes Rosen
Title: The Good Grooves EP
Label: Why Not
Format: Digital
Release Date: October 12, 2009
Audio Sample: Listen

In a dance music industry that seemingly becomes more and more soulless as producers quickly hop from one trend to the next in hopes of nothing more than achieving fame, it’s refreshing to see producers stick their guns and follow their hearts.

Such is the case with Sweden’s Claes Rosen, whose latest EP ‘The Good Grooves’ on the digital imprint Why Not is musically brilliant and certainly non-conforming stylistically. While generally funky in nature (hence the review on this website), when listening to this EP one thinks less of it’s genre but rather it’s overall vibe…

The EP’s titular track is this reviewer’s personal favorite by a very small margin – it’s really hard to describe this track’s appeal other than to say it simply works, and it certainly does groove – listening to this track compels one to dance. The EP’s second track, Funktion, definitely has a extra helping of old-skool funk to carry things along, and would fit in nicely in a variety of atmospheres.

Tracklist:

1. The Good Grooves

2. Funktion

Cuepoint.tv Mixset 047 – Claes Rosen

Exclusive Review: Fred Falke – Chicago

Suneel — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Fred Falke
Title: Chicago
Label: Work It Baby
Format: Digital
Release Date: 08/13/09
Audio Sample: Listen

The French Disco Revolution continues with one of the classiest production names of the genre taking a stab at a cover of the classic Roy Ayers “Chicago” vocal.

The results are down right groovy.

The squad here at FunkyHouseMusic.com is writing a prescription for undeniable wiggle action on deep to uptempo house dancefloors seeing support from across the EDM landscape. This one has got that infectious vibe that is shwocasing that DISCO is officially BACK!

And we couldn’t be happier about it after two years of dark minimal nonsense. its time to have fun again in club land – finally!..

Track Listing

Fred Falke – Chicago (Original Mix)

Video:

Exclusive Interview: Cevin Fisher

Suneel — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Born in East Orange, New Jersey, Cevin Fisher has risen to become one of the World’s most respected & prolific master house producers and DJ’s who really broke-out on a global level in the mid-to-late 1990′s.

His progressive sound & innovative approach broke new ground within the industry, giving-up classic anthems like “Hands On Love” and “House Is A Feeling,” both penned for New York independent label Hardtrax.

After these early successes Danny Tenaglia encouraged Cevin to pursue a recording career full-time, and he committed himself in earnest to production in the mid-’90s. Singles such as “The Way We Used To” and “Shine the Light” followed, earning him significant international clubplay, although it was 2000′s “The Freaks Come Out” on the UK’s Subversive label that pushed him into the mainstream house stratosphere.

With “The Freaks Come Out” having recently seen a 10-year anniversary re-release complete with brand-new remixes, we took the opporutunity to interview Cevin and find his thoughts on a music scene that is very different from the era that made him famous.

FHM: Cevin – Your career is the stuff of legends! It is
a great honor to feature your voice in our digital universe here at FunkyHouseMusic.com. Let’s kick things off by first thanking you for all of your contributions to house music. Your voice and sound is an essential ingredient of the genre as we know it, and we hope you continue to create innovative work as you journey through this illustrious career. With that said, why don’t we start by discussing your new release ‘ ‘The Freaks Come Out (2009 Mixes – Pt. 2)”why should the readers be excited about this package?

CF: First off thanks for the compliments, I really do appreciate them, Its been quite the journey thus far. And of course I will try my best to keep
the music coming. The Freaks Come Out is celebrating its 10 year anniversary this year, and I’m very fortunate to be with a label like Subversive for so

long. Martin Fisher and Martin Jones the label honchos at Subversive decided to re-release The Freaks Come Out with a unique group of remixers:
Prok and Fitch, Tim Davidson, Anil Chawla, Eric Entrena, Nyan Narine, Darren Flecta, DC & JB, Sharp and Smooth. I really love the remixes,
And this year at the Winter Music Conference in Miami, I heard the mixes being played by a wide variety of Dj’s like Carl Cox, Roger Sanchez,
Victor Calderone, Boris to name a few. The package has been released in 2 parts and from what I hear there will be a couple of bonus mixes
released as well. So, there’s definitely a mix for everyone..

FHM: For the end of 2009, and looking forward to 2010, can you shed some light on how Cevin Fisher will influence dance music?

CF: Well along with my management and agents, my calendar is looking really nice at the moment. So, I plan on continuing to hit the road,
and sharing my music with the fans all over the world. I’ve been putting out tracks for a long time now, and I will continue to do so,
however, we’re spending a lot of energy putting together tours. I will most likely be doing some double header dates with my mates from the UK
Prok and Fitch. Who recently released a collaboration with myself and Prok and Fitch called “Mundo” and its a hot one, burning up the dancefloors now.

FHM: With so much competition and heat from existing and uprising brands in the digital MP3 dance music universe, what is your plan to differentiate your present and future productions? Do you still believe in the MP3 retail model via sources such as Beatport & Juno Download? Or has the blog MP3 sharing community caught your attention as a new methodology of popularizing an artist’s music (i.e. in other words giving it away)?

CF: Yeah there’s a lot of competition out there, and to me thats a good thing, the music business always has and always will be competitive,
because music is such a strong force. I just like to try and be as creative as possible when i’m producing music, and its always very challenging.
Its hard to hit a homerun everytime you step up to the plate. Knowing this, I just try to do my best. I’m always sponging and being inspired by
the music that I love and when i’m creating in the studio, I just try and let the production flow. In the end, I try to come up with something that
moves me, and chances are if the music moves me, then its going to move more people as well. I actually love shopping at Beatport and the other
Digital download sites. I was so amazed by Itunes, Beatport, Traxsource, Juno. The fact that you can buy music on line totally blows my mind.
There’s some real wiz kids out there. I get a lot of promos from different labels, and thats a good thing, I’ve always gotten a ton of promos.
I used to get them in the mail as vinyl promos, and I miss vinyl, but I don’t miss all of the space and clutter that I used to have to deal with.

FHM: Overall, what is your opinion on up & coming producers in dance music simply giving away their music through the blog-o-sphere, and allowing anyone to download for free? Do you feel this is hurting industry sales through pay-for-music websites? Is this a method you would recommend to a newcomer to the production world?

CF: I just wish there was a way to really police the music via the net, Its sad to me that a producer will spend so much time and effort in the studio, only to have
the music shared unauthorized, which definitely effects the sales in the end. For the newcomers, I would recommend being really careful when promoting your
music. Theres a small window in between the promoting of a new track, to the actual release of the track. You should try and give your music to credible djs.
and remind them to keep the track very exclusive to themselves.

FHM: Considering these new viral marketing techniques being implemented by up & coming producers ‘ the process of discovering and listening to new music is changing significantly. Shifting the attention to the listener/music fan, how do you feel they are being effected by this? Do you feel dance music is growing in popularity, or perhaps contracting since tangible products such a vinyl and cds are shrinking as mediums to hear music?

CF: Actually, I do feel like its growing in popularity. Theres a lot of music out there, but I still believe it takes time to come up with a project or track that has some staying power,
A track that can be played in clubs, video, radio, movies. These are the tracks that interest me the most and have an actual life. So at the end of the day, for me its still the same.
I get some labels that send me 3 or 4 tracks every week, and most of the time these are tracks that won’t work in my sets. Its unfortunate, but its just the way I select my music.
I do appreciate getting all of the promos, but we have to try and be really creative, to make music that makes some kind of statement, and has something to grab the listeners attention.

FHM: You’ve been ‘in the game’ since the early 1990′s if our research serves us correctly ‘ what experiences stand out in your career as the most memorable? If you don’t mind, share a story ‘most’ people haven’t heard about you’

CF: Yeah i’ve been doing this for a while now, I would have to say that from experience, you really need to have your act together, especially now with
the business being so competitive, theres djs everywhere. And everybody has a brand now a days. If your fortunate enough to get your music played and
fortunate enough to travel. Do the best you can, and don’t mess it up. In my career there been many ups, but theres also been quite a few downs too.
You need to really stay focused. At the end of the day this djing and producing is a business, and its really hard to travel into different time zones, and go
hard at every stop. You have a job to do, and you need to try to find a way to bring that energy and professionalism to every show.

FHM: What is exciting you about the dance music world today as compared to the past?

CF: At the moment, I am impressed with the technology being used in the clubs, the sound sytems, the lights,
the overall production used by some of the promoters and club owners, I was just recently in Japan at a club called Ageha,
And I felt like I had stepped into the future. The sound system was amazing and the lights just blew me away.
I’m also a resident at Pacha NYC, and I love how they change the feel of the club everyweek, depending on who the dj is.
I love all of the work that these proper clubs do, in preparing for the event. And I see that now more than in the past.

FHM: In your opinion, who is the most innovative, exciting dance music producer at the moment?

CF: Thats a tricky one, Theres some really great producers out there at the moment. But I would have to say i’m really
loving my mates in the UK Prok and Fitch, They turned in some really great remixes for us at Subversive, first with
“You Got Me Burning Up ” then ” The Freaks Come Out “. as well as the new project we have together called “Mundo”
So without a doubt they are tearing the dancefloors up, and so they get my vote.

FHM: Is there anything else you would like to share with the FunkyHouseMusic.com community?

CF: I’d just like to say thanks for all of your support over the years, and we’re going to try and keep the good music coming to you.
I have a few collaborations out right now with Prok and Fitch “Mundo” on Stealth Records, also a new one with Eric Entrena called “Dirty Games”
and I have a new one coming out with my mate Paul Harris called “I’m Losing My Mind” coming out on Big Love Records. Also be on the
lookout for a new A Different Dimension project with my best buddy DJ Kelee on Ggressive Recordings, And soon to be released a new Cevin Fisher track
called “Sexxx Machine ” on Subversive Records.

Exclusive Interview: Cybersutra

Dave Cortex — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 08:00:00 +0000

CyberSutra is a live electronic music project that DJ/Producer and percussionist Scott Binder (SF) created with his good friend and talented producer Nathan Heal (Seattle). Weaving together elements of Electro House, Melodic Trance and live improvisation, with their recent radio hit “Summer Sutra” feat. Tiff Lacey, being featured on Pete Tong’s fast trax and having House Legend DJ Dan sign “Lick it” to his label, CyberSutra has quickly become a household name.

FHM: The New Miami Times describes CyberSutra as ‘an electronica outfit with the sensibilities of non-electronic musicians.’ Can you tell us a little bit more about that? What is your artistic vision?

CS: Both of us spent our early musical careers performing in live bands, so when we started CyberSutra it was very important to us to keep that live performance element in our shows. It’s more than just throwing in some loops and producing a dance track, or standing behind the turntables and spinning a prefabricated playlist. It’s about engaging the crowd, connecting with the fans in a more personal and energetic way. We like to bring the energy to people, and the more fun we’re having, the more fun the fans seem to have.

FHM: What motivated you to enter the dance music production realm? What do you hope to contribute to the music genre’s fanbase and industry as a whole?

CS: In 1998, we bought Paul Oakenfold’s ‘Tranceport’ album and have been hooked ever since! Around that time, we were both studying music production in college. That marked the beginning of our vision to share our music around the world. We are trying to give people something different and something they haven’t heard before, but most importantly, we want to make them dance.

FHM: Your debut single was picked up by DJ Dan’s ‘InStereo Recordings’ last year. How exactly was the group discovered? Do you have any advice for aspiring producers on landing on quality label deal?

CS: Dan is one of our favorite DJ/Producers. We used to listen to old mix tapes in the early part of the millennium, but the first time we met in person was at the Burning Man Festival in 2007. After we got back, he heard our song and the rest is history. As far as aspiring producers landing a quality label deal, anything is possible. Just keep believing in yourself, and remember that even though you may hear 100 no’s, all it takes is one yes.

FHM: Your next big single is called ‘White, Trashy and Blonde’ and features the vocals of Melleefresh. Is there a background story behind this track, and does the title refer to anyone in particular?

CS: We are a big fan of Melleefresh’s work on the Deadmau5 tracks so we were really excited to work with her on ‘White Trashy and Blonde.’ She has been on our radar as a vocalist for a while now, so it’s a really fun opportunity. And yes, it does have a story’ Melleefresh wrote the lyrics about a person that she knows, and no, they are not best friends.

FHM: Is it true that you primarily perform live sets instead of DJ sets? This is still relatively rare in today’s dance scene. What sort of unexpected challenges do you have to deal with?

CS: During our sets, we perform live African percussion and live keyboards while taking turns on the turntables. Our goal is to eventually create a full live multimedia show with minimal or no turntables at all. But at the moment, the turntables are very much a part of our live shows.

FHM: What dance & non-dance music producers are inspiring you currently?

CS: Wolfgang Gartner is off the hook, Junkie XL is definitely cranking out some really cool material, and we have always been a big fan of BT, DJ Dan, Daft Punk and Infected Mushroom.

FHM: What is your opinion on the current dilemma that producers have when marketing their productions? Do you agree with the legal, retail MP3 model (e.g. Beatport, Junodownload, iTunes, etc.) of selling tracks? Or do you support the blogosphere model of simply giving it away, and letting the viral marketing take care of itself?

CS: We work very hard on our productions, so we agree with the model of selling music because it is one way to get compensated for our dedication. Music is a product just like anything else. But at the end of the day, creating music is about sharing it, so we do give some of our music away. It gives us a chance to spread the love and allows more people an opportunity to hear our sound.

Exclusive Review: Classixx – I’ll Get You

Suneel — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Classixx
Title: I’ll Get You
Label: Kitsune
Format: Digital
Release Date: 06/08/2009
Audio Sample: Listen

With every year that passes, EDM fans rejoice over past memories of tracks that define the bliss of summer. As we enter this year’s fabulous summer season, we now have contender #1 for 2009 summer anthem!

The French have a way of identifying uplifting music in a unique fashion that sends shivers up our spines, and Kitsune is THAT label at the moment. Belting out choon after choon, the label has outdone themselves by sponsoring the most recent Classixx music project.

Insert an insanely infectious vocal and here we are – posted below is the label’s video for the tune. In our respectful opinion, the video doesn’t provide the song justice, but then again, who cares! CHOON!..

Video:

Exclusive Review: Wolfgang Gartner – Push & Rise

Dave Cortex — Fri, 01 May 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Wolfgang Gartner
Title: Push & Rise
Label: Kindergarten
Format: Digital
Release Date: April 14, 2009
Audio Sample: Listen

With the digital download sites being flooded lately by a surprisingly amount of very talented producers, it becomes increasingly difficult to measure which ones are truly raising the bar beyond the rest. Besides crafting sonically pristine synth patches and writing catchy or intelligent hooks, one of the biggest barometers for quality is, in this reviewers’ opinion, range.

There are so few producers out there that consistently put out wildly different styles of quality house music, that whenever one does, they almost immediately capture our attention. Eric Prydz and Deadmau5 are two examples, and it is fair to say that recent sensation Wolfgang Gartner is equally deserving of that respect…

Besides the fact that he made a name for himself producing deep and jackin’ house music as Joey Youngman, Wolfgang Gartner has lately appealed equally to fans of ADD-infused, over-the-top electro house as well as lovers of smooth and sexy progressive.

With his latest release “Push & Rise”, it is evident that Mr. Gartner’s range goes even further – this time to the realm of French-inspired club bombs. The centerpiece of “Push & Rise” is a tweaked-out vocoder processing of super-fast lyrics that have something to do with pushing and rising (of course). The track has a very sampled, old school feel while also managing to sound very current and relevant – this probably has something to do with Wolfgang’s superior skills in the studio, as his tracks have a trademark crispness and punch that instantly separates him from the rest of the pack.

This track is highly recommended to DJ’s that enjoy positive reactions from their dancefloor or music lovers in general. Well played, Mr. Youngman.

Tracklist:

1. Push & Rise (Original Mix)

Exclusive Interview: Charles Feelgood

Suneel — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Legendary for his role in the birth of the electronic music scene in the Baltimore / Washington DC area, Charles Feelgood has built a reputation as a DJ in the international dance community through his ingenious remix skills and a dynamic brand of funky disco, electro, techno and hard house.

Constantly in demand all over the world for his ability to light up dance floors with his sets of funk, acid and electro drenched house, Feelgood has received numerous accolades in his fifteen-year career. His next adventure showcases Charles busy in the studio again working on new releases for his newest imprint — Supa Cutz — which will be launched this year. The label will focus on house with a “ghetto retro” feel; we decided to get to the bottom of this new artistic outlet, as well catch up with Mr. Feelgood on an array of the following topics:

FHM: Supacutz Recordings – The new label from Charles Feelgood. Why now? In other words, after all this time in the game, why the motivation to start a music label? Personal career goal? Tired of quality house artists gone minimal? Lack of happy, funky sounds in the scene? The economy is falling apart, and doing gigs ain’t what it used to be?

Feelgood: The Economy is definitely falling apart, but I’ve always enjoyed making tracks, and if you’re a label owner, you know there’s not much money to be made on tracks these days, but it’s a great outlet and I love going into my studio, closing the door and blasting my monitors until my ears get tired. I just reworked my studio building my own bass traps and sound proofing, new computer (where I’m running Protools 8)and I’ve bought a grip of new soft synths.

FHM: We imagine the days of “happy house” won’t be the sole focus of the label. But we do hope it is at the very least part of the output. From your perspective and all the genre stratification that exists in dance music today – what genres and/or sub-genres do you foresee Supacutz getting it’s feet wet in?

Feelgood: I just like the funky, harder stuff. When I make tracks myself, I just want it to be funky, I’m definitely partial to some “styles” but minimal won’t be one of them, I guess even after all of these years, I just don’t understand it. I’m making some funky Modern Disco at the moment with a little “Fidget” on the side and that’s the kinda stuff I’m looking for.

FHM: Does the label already host a current roster of producers? Or will Supacutz be an outlet for DJ Charles Feelgood to flex his production skills solely for the world? Or perhaps both?

Feelgood: I’ll definitely be putting some work in on some remixes, but I’m currently looking at new, fresh talent. The first release due at the end of April is “This Is What I Do” by Paul Anthony, Dust n Haze, and ZXX, with remixes by TJR, and myself.

FHM: We recall a brief stint in the past when Supacutz released a couple of limited pressing releases on vinyl. This must have been at least 2-3 years ago, if not longer. If memory serves correctly, the releases (in conjunction with Jon Pegnato & Aaron Ghetto) were dope and provided a strong foundation for the label to kick off. What happened?

Feelgood: Those tracks were white labels and yeah it was more like 5 years ago! Time flies and I wish we could still print vinyl, but right now it’s strictly digital. At that time I figured it would be easier for me to work with others and I still enjoy working with others, Jeff T and I have a new release on Dj Dan’s label Instereo, and that release (“Bounce It” and “Cell Hell”) was really good for us and he and I will be working more together. Since I don’t have to sit around with 2000 records in my living room waiting to be distributed like the old days, I figured it would be a good time to get back into the label business, and have more control over what and when I put tracks out.

FHM: With so much competition and heat from existing and uprising brands in the digital MP3 dance music universe, what is your plan to differentiate Supacutz? Do you still believe in the MP3 retail model via sources such as Beatport & Juno Download? Or has the blog MP3 sharing community caught your attention as a new methodology of popularizing a label’s music (i.e. in other words giving it away)? Overall, what is your opinion on up & coming producers just giving away their music through the blog-o-sphere, and allowing anyone to download for free? Do you feel this is hurting industry sales through pay-for-music websites? Is this a method you agree with as a newcomer to the production world?

Feelgood: The blog thing kinda confuses me, its like you give it away to become popular so that you can give away to a bigger audience? What’s the point of exposure if you are giving your music away all the time? I give away stuff, but it would be nice to make enough money to keep the label going at the same time! I just want to put out stuff that people can bump in their cars to and from the club. I’m not expecting to get rich from it!

FHM: The team at FunkyHousemusic.com has always had a soft spot for your live DJ sets, and the energy you have consistently brought to dance floors over the years. These days, what producers & remix artists are really pushing the sound forward, in your respective opinion? Do you hope to work with any of these characters for Supacutz?

Feelgood: It’s always been my objective since I started playing on a national level to give the up and comers a shot. When I opened my Dj Martini bar in Baltimore years ago, it was a place where dj’s who couldn’t get gigs to play in front of people who were informed about “our” music. There are guys pushing the sound forward, and they don’t need much help, I’m looking for new talent, so send those demos to djcharlesfeelgood@yahoo.com and see if you got some super-funky new material we can get out!

FHM: Outside of the label, what can the American electronic dance community expect from Charles Feelgood for the remainder of 2009?

Feelgood: Ill be on our for my new cd “How Sweet It Is” on Moist Music this summer and really looking forward to my Baltimore and DC appearance.The first stop is June 6th at Starscape! Much love to the Funkyhousemusic.com crew, you guys are real and do me a favor and tell your readers harles Feelgood says “There are good Dj’s in America too”.

To learn more about Charles Feelgood, please visit:

http://www.djfeelgood.com

FHM: Charles – Thank you for taking the time to accept our interview, and for supporting the Funkyhousemusic.com mission. We truly appreciate your effort, and wish you the best of luck with your future endeavors.

Exclusive Review: Phonat – Set Me Free E.P.

Suneel — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Phonat
Title: Set Me Free E.P.
Label: MofoHifi
Format: Digital
Release Date: 3/24/2009
Audio Sample: Listen

The Set Me Free EP is a follow up to the innovative and critically acclaimed “Learn to Recycle” which was celebrated as one of the most adventurous pieces of electronic music to be released in 2008 and was described as the eBohemian Rhapsody for the acid house generation.

Phonat has frequently stunned us with his none-more-innovative productions over the last few years, coming across like a hyperactive Daft Punk on happy pills By the end, you’re exhausted, perplexed, flabbergasted, and left with the feeling that all other music is boring, unimaginative, repetitive trash. Wow. 10/10 – Data Transmission..

The eagerly awaited new EP from the Italian prodigy paves the way for his debut album release this spring. The lead single for the vested interest of this website’s audience will immediately gravitate to “Set Me Free”.

If you thought the Data Transmission quote was a bit over the top.

In this reviewer’s opinion, it’s a bit understated.

Phonat is such a refreshing producer in the land of EDM presently, and this production will stand proudly among his portfolio of outstanding dance contributions. The delicate and rarely heard balance of forward thinking music, funk, new wave, disco, electro, synth, guitar, and quite possibly more as this tune becomes more and more infectious with each listen.

It is our understanding that the UK-based outfit – The Young Punx – played a role in Phonat’s development to the EDM world. Maybe we’ll be lucky enough to see this tune receive remix treatments from The Young Punx, and a possible new MofoHifi partnership with man of the moment Grum. it would seem like a package made in heaven!

Although. it will be challenging to top the original mix. This is one of the finest tunes we have heard in some time. WMC 2009 will hopefully get a taste of this lovely gesture to the dancefloor.

Tracklisting

Phonat – “Set Me Free” (Original Mix)

Phonat – “Get Down My Dirty Sweet” (Original Mix)

Phonat – “Ho Visto Un Quadro Verde (I’ve Seen a Green Picture)” (Original Mix)

Exclusive Interview: Sharem Jey

Dave Cortex — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 08:00:00 +0000

DJ, producer, label owner – Sharam Jey from Cologne, Germany, is a real allrounder. Sharam Jey’s roots may be in soul music but he gained stage experience as a singer for a rockband. At the same time his Dj’ing skills became hugely popular on the party scene and among his friends. His Dj’ing started out as a part-time gig but soon turned into a passion when Sharam discovered his love for house & techno in the early 90s.

We caught up with Mr. Jey to find out about his plans for 2009, current taste in music, and more.

FHM: It seems you have taken a very strong liking

to the nu:disco & indie dance emerging sound based on

your recent releases. What is it about this new breed

of artists that is appealing to you?

SJ: Well, in the end it’s just a new term

for electronic-house,disco,bangin. .-music. It’s a

good mixture of some powerful varying sounds with a

funky, more proper sound-oriented structure. It’s a

sound for the main-time-sets. no wasting time for

pling-plong .

FHM: What is your opinion on the growing blog music

exchange scene where producers and dance music fans

are posting high quality MP3 files for free? Is this

good for the artists? Is it good for the innovation of

music production? Is the idealogy behind website

services such as Beatport & Juno Download fading as we

speak?

SJ: Times are changing. Sales are going

down. As an artist you have to go new ways to promote

yourself and reach a lot of people. For the label of

course it’s more difficult, you invest in artists and

don’t get enough money back. The value of music is

about to go down.

FHM: Do you foresee a new emerging, dominant trend

in EDM for this year? It seems the club scene has been

hovering with minimal & techno for awhile now. Do you

think the rumors of a resurgent disco comeback are

true?

SJ: This rumour is spreading for the last

3-4 years. I think it has never disappeared. It was

just that the minimal technoid sounds were so present

recently. Now it’s getting more funky again. I like

that, for me it’s important to play with different

styles and sounds in my sets. It’s all about a good

combination of sounds.

FHM: The current economic environment is a huge

issue right now in the US and most of the world. What

kind of an effect do you think this is having on the

dance music industry, if at all?

SJ: We will see, I mean people have less

money to spend. But maybe they like to go clubbing and

like to be amused even more now.

FHM: What are your goals for 2009?

SJ: I just finished my second artist album,

which will be out later this year. There will be lots

of fantastic guest vocalists like Princess Superstar,

Tommie Sunshine, Lost Valentinos, Sam Obernik, Brixx,

Cornelia and Dacia Bridges. The first single is just

out, it’s ‘Monday Morning’ with Princess Superstar. We

have a nice remix package with the likes of Alex

Gopher, Headman. And in April Underwater will

release my first remix album with songs from the last

10 years of my career. They have been newly remixed by

Martin Buttrich, Zoo Brazil, The Glimmers, John

Dahlb�ck and many more. So I have a huge year

ahead.

FHM: Finally, we have a lot of budding producers

that visit FunkyHouseMusic.com. Do you have any

production tips that you’d like to share with our

readers?

SJ: Of course my remix album, it features a

good mixture of different styles of music. And I am

really into Alex Gophers stuff at the moment. Also my

other favourites are Larry T and Alexander Technique

who did a remix for my next single ‘In My Blood’. And

of course the LouLou Players, my

label-buddies.

Exclusive Review: Hatiras & Messinian – Out My Face

Suneel — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Hatiras & Messinian
Title: Out My Face
Label: Hatrax
Format: Digital
Release Date: 2/17/2009
Audio Sample: Listen

The Hatrax label entertains the EDM masses with consistant release after release, but underground kidz beware as this new jam is going to rock the oldschool & the nu-school. This is a late night jam for the main room sound systems that is about as twisted as blacking out, and not remembering what the last 36 hours derived.

In all seriousness, the track’s ingredients include a dope old school breakbeat backed by a thumping 4/4 layered with that distinct Hatiras production style and surprisingly, a bassline that is one part drum n bass and one part electro. Enter the lyrics of Messinian invading our eardrumz discussing his pet peeve with certain types of females. I won’t ruin the surprise, but let’s just say some might be a tad bit offended…

Someone had to set them straight.

Much respect to Hatiras for staying true to producing whatever he feels from the heart, and not following the current trends. He continues to distinguish himself as an artist with an endless array of creative thoughts translated through sound.

Tracklisting

Hatiras & Messinian – “Out My Face” (Original Mix)

Hatiras & Messinian – “Out My Face” (Acapella)

Exclusive Review: Arno Cost – Darling Harbour

Dave Cortex — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Arno Cost
Title: Darling Harbour
Label: Serial Records
Format: Digital
Release Date: none
Audio Sample: Listen

We’ve had our eye on young French producer Arno Cost for a few years now – his first remixes for Laidback Luke and Geyster initially caught our attention, and in early 2007 his outstanding collaboration with Arias, “Magenta”, took the dance scene by storm, with full FHM approval.

In our eyes, Arno’s main appeal comes from his ability to infuse modern styles of dance music with the emotive electronic sensibilities that French producers are known for. The past two years have seen him do this quite well with electro and progressive house tracks, and now with his latest release “Darling Harbour”, Arno tackles a more modern, minimal influenced sound…

Sparse, glitchy, yet energetic beats provide the slick backbone for the track, while repetitive yet engaging synth stabs and an intelligible vocal hook capture the attention and provide most of the drive and energy. Other sounds and fx come and go throughout to make sure that there’s never a static moment, and the track takes a slightly epic turn during the melodic breakdown that is an Arno Cost signature.

Tested to great effect in the clubs, “Darling Harbour” is without a doubt one of Arno Cost’s best works to date, and a true testament to the producers strength, as he stays true to his core sound while continuing to stay relevant.

Tracklisting:

1. Darling Harbour (Original Mix)

Exclusive Review: Bag Raiders – Turbo Love

Suneel — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Bag Raiders
Title: Turbo Love
Label: Bang Gang
Format: Vinyl
Release Date: 10/22/2008
Audio Sample: Listen

“Turbo Love” – the third EP from Australia’s Bag Raiders, dropped last week via Bang Gang. ‘Turbo Love’ is an exploration of vocoders and synthesizers galore. The sound of Aussie exports Gus Da Hoodrat, Jack Sabbath, and Chris Brave (a.k.a. Bag Raiders) is, according to their buds at the BangGang 12 Inches label, ‘a bit familiar but you can’t pick it so you just keep dancing.’

“Turbo Love” opens with victory instrumentals soaring over a short snippet of demented, tweaky, heavy beats. Then in bounds the rich, feel-good 4/4 party chords accompanied by electro-funk talk-box vocals and synthetic handclaps. After a brief, sentimental interlude, the trio summarily rebuilds the cheerful layers, carrying the party to its full potential and then leaving before everyone else does…

Overall, if placed correctly, this can be a vicious weapon to take an event to the next level. But be weary of the non-friendly DJ format of the track; someone needs to tell the nu disco / indie dance scene about making tracks more dj friendly. Why do producers make tracks difficult to mix? Don’t they want as many DJs as possible to play their tracks? Don’t they want the DJs playing their tracks to sound good mixing in & out of their tracks? Just a few closing thoughts. those savvy in the re-editing department will enjoy this track for weeks to come!

Track Listing

Bag Raiders – Turbo Love (Original Mix)

Bag Raiders – Turbo Love (Raiders Slamball Revision)

Bag Raiders – Shooting Stars (Original Mix)

Bag Raiders – Shooting Stars (Instrumental)

Exclusive Interview: Max Vangeli

Dave Cortex — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0000

San Francisco-based DJ and producer Max Vangeli is quickly establishing himself as one of the fastest ‘rising’ names in house music, going virtually overnight from an unknown bedroom producer to be championed by Pete Tong and signed to Chris Lake’s ‘Rising Music’. FHM had a chance to talk with Mr. Vangeli about his success, his music, and more.

FHM: Max, your first ever release, the “Crazed EP”, came out on Chris Lake’s Rising Trax last month. What was it like to work with Chris?

MV: Yeah it was amazing stuff, I mean I’ve always been a big fan of Chris Lake’s stuff and now to have the honor of working with him is dope. What’s great about him versus bigger labels is that everyone was really involved in the EP. From the marketing standpoint to tweaking the white noise on the builds with Chris Lake, Rising really showed me a warm welcome.

FHM: And one of the EP’s tracks was even showcased by Pete Tong on Radio One, correct?

MV: Well, yes. I actually got a lot of love from Pete Tong on this EP. To tell you the truth I would say he was a huge part of my success with Rising. I had just finished up the first track off the EP called “Crazed” and was kinda sitting on it. A few months later I sent it over to Tong and he showcased it on Fast Trax. I had a lot of offers instantly, but I waited for the right one and here we are now. After that I sent over some other stuff I was working on, “iRock” and “K.E.J.I.” which were amazing collaborations with Digital Lab. Both tracks were instantly picked up by Chris and “iRock” got big support on BBC Radio 1 by Pete Tong.

FHM: You mentioned your collaborations will Digital Lab – who is a Florida-based producer, correct? How did the two of you start working together?

MV: I have been on Laidback Luke’s forums for a while and when Pete Tong played “Crazed” I had a lot of new producers approaching me about production tips and such, and Digital Lab contacted me wanting to do a remix of “Crazed”. I sent him the parts and he just slammed it hard. I mean his drums are just so sick. After that we just started working as a team, made “iRock”, which once again was a success for Tong. It’s now a very solid relationship and we have a lot more in the bag for the near future.

FHM: Describe your creative process when writing a track.

MV: Hehe. well lets see. I never start a track the same way, it all depends on what I’m trying to do. As I grow in my production it gets a bit more structured I would say. I don’t need to spend hours tweaking stuff to make them sound good, now its all about the idea. Before, I didn’t have all the knowledge on the EQs and Compressors, thus my overall sound was just flat. But with time I learned and became better and better. Now a days I don’t really worry too much about my mixes because I have a lot of confidence now. So for me production is just messing around with melodies now, trying to nail the melodic aspect of a track. Once I have that I work on the drums and arrangement effects. But it all comes down to having that melody line for me – that hook, the point of the track.

FHM: What do you have planned for the future?

MV: Since the release I’ve been playing out a lot. Just got back from a small tour in Eastern Europe, did a few big events at Ruby Skye including my EP Release party with Chris Lake. At this point we have a track that Laidback Luke would like to pick up, as well as some potential collaborations with Tommy Trash and Lys. Have a few hot ones coming out soon with Digital Lab as well, and a track under the name of “Fender Bender” which is my baby that I want to finally finish up for WMC 09.

FHM: Thanks Max for taking the time to talk with us.

Exclusive Review: Anoraak – Nightdrive With You (Grum New Wave Remix)

Suneel — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Anoraak
Title: Nightdrive With You (Grum New Wave Remix)
Label: White
Format: Digital
Release Date: 9/16/2008
Audio Sample: Listen

For all of you 80s Revival / New Wave / Indie / Nu Disco heads out there enjoying the innovations emerging from these sub-genres, here is a beauty if we have ever heard one.

Although numerous remixes seem to be floating on the blog scene, the champion (in our humble opinion) has been from U.K. artist Grum who has remixed this number to blissful perfection. A combination of French House, electro funk, and lush vocals amount to humans dancing on subway platforms paying no regard to surrounding crowds in broad daylight…

We can only imagine how this production has been rocking intelligent minded dance floors over the past couple of months. Keep your eye on this artist. he has numerous productions floating, and from what we have heard, they each carry a level of distinct quality.

Video:

Exclusive Review: The Young Punx – MASHitUP

Suneel — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: The Young Punx
Title: MASHitUP
Label: MofoHifi
Format: Digital
Release Date: 9/5/2008
Audio Sample: Listen

In a slightly different approach than what is the norm here at FunkyHouseMusic.com review headquarters; we are curious to receive YOUR feedback on this project by The Young Punx.

As those of you who have been reading our website daily bloggings over the years, we are big fans of this production team. For their new project – “MASHitUP” – it is a very different artistic direction with potential crossover appeal.

Are you digging it? Or are you not? Check the video below, and click on the forum feedback link below the video to showcase YOUR opinion in our forums. If we’re lucky, The Young Punx may respond to your commentary!..

Ready. Set. Go!

Exclusive Review: Phonat – Learn To Recycle

Suneel — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Phonat
Title: Learn To Recycle
Label: MofoHifi
Format: Digital
Release Date: 8/18/2008
Audio Sample: Listen

ANTHEM Alert!!

Seven foot Italian electro wunderkid Phonat’s defining work of leftfield genius is “Learn To Recycle.” Is it possible to bind together hip hop, house and drum & bass in one track? Phonat states a thumping YES as this track cannot be denied by any fan of electronic dance music.

Yes folks. This ‘ish is the bomb and will absolutely destroy any underground dancefloor. We can see cats from John B to DJ Dan to The Young Punx all killin’ their gigs in the coming months with this joint…

Our only critical comment is the original mix easily trumps the 4 to the floor mix. with this stated, we would have loved to have seen a version of the original mix produced in a DJ-friendlier format. However, this is where creativity seperates the better DJs from the rest. You’ll figure it out.

Easily one of the best secret weapon tracks we have heard in some time. Much respect to MofoHifi Records for funding this release, and sharing it with the world!

Video:

Track Listing

“Learn To Recycle” (Original Mix)

“Learn To Recycle” (4 To The Floor Mix)

Exclusive Review: Tortured Soul – Home To You (Chuck Love Remix)

Suneel — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Tortured Soul
Title: Home To You (Chuck Love Remix)
Label: Coco Soul
Format: Digital
Release Date: 8/08/2008
Audio Sample: Listen

Tortured Soul is music that will move you. It’s a new concept in the world of house music: it’s live. The instrumentation is simple and organic: drums, electric bass, vintage keys, and soulful vocals. Tortured Soul filters club sounds like Afro Beat and Samba through a lens of jazzy House and American Soul to reflect intense grooves evocative of Jamiroquai, Stevie Wonder, the New Deal, and Fela Kuti.

Enter the multi-talented house phenom – Chuck Love – also known for his sensational organic fusion of electronic house beats and multiple instruments. The hybrid of these two brilliant sets of artists equates to a project that exceeds expectations (somehow!)…

The vocals are spot on, and Chuck Love remixes the track to absolute perfection; adding just enough spice and soul to an create an instant classic that will be played for years to come. The record brings well crafted songwriting together with beat heavy dance music in Tortured Soul’s signature live format.

This one will go down well in any proper house DJ set. And we here at FunkyHouseMusic.com can only hope this hybrid occurs again in the near future. Bravo on a job well done!

Video:

Track Listing

“Home To You” (Original Mix)

“Home To You” (Chuck Love Remix)

Exclusive Review: Happy Clappers – I Believe (Vandalism / Paulo Jackson & Ruud EQ Remixes)

Suneel — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Happy Clappers
Title: I Believe (Vandalism / Paulo Jackson & Ruud EQ Remixes)
Label: Art & Craft
Format: Digital
Release Date: 8/1/08
Audio Sample: Listen

The club anthem classic is back strapped with updated remixes to educate the new generation of dance music fans, and allow the old schoolers to get down like it was 1994 still.

The Happy Clappers are a house studio project from the UK, featuring Chris Scott, Graeme Ripley, Martin Knotts and Mark Topham with Sandra Edwards on vocals. “I Believe” was a top 10 hit in England in 1995, but was never released in the U.S (at the time). The initial release in 1994 never yielded mainstream chart success…

My how times have changed. Today’s remix package features two hot re-works by Vandalism and production duo Paulo Jackson & Ruud EQ. The Vandalism interpretation is a piano house monster complete with large breakdowns and energetic build ups equating to a foot-stomping, hand-clapping affair. Paulo Jackson and Ruud EQ update the track with a fidget house masterpiece. Incorporating breakbeats, piano house, hardcore, and slicing the vocal up left and right provides maximum listening pleasure for the A.D.D. sides of our personalities, finalizing the package with an updated underground anthem.

Video:

Track Listing

“I Believe” (Vandalism Spank daNun Mix)

“I Believe” (Vandalism Club Mix)

“I Believe” (Robot Needs Oil Mix)

“I Believe” (Northstarz Mix)

“I Believe” (Paulo Kackson & Ruud ED Mix)

“I Believe” (Original Mix)

Exclusive Interview: Chuck Love

Suneel — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 08:00:00 +0000

FunkyHouseMusic.com proudly presents this exclusive interview with one of the most exciting house music performers currently in the world. Not just an inspiration to house music and dance, but an inspiration to the art form of music in general. Enjoy this insightful dialogue with the one & only Chuck Love!

FHM: Please describe how it all began. Your love for music, instruments, and performance’if it’s possible, provide the readers of FunkyHouseMusic.com who aren’t as familiar with your history with a short synopsis of how you became the multi-talented artist you represent today.

CL: Wow. My history with music has been a long one indeed.
I started my fascination with music at a very early age, for some reason I just “got it.” I was able to pick out melodies on the piano, and sort out harmonies and sing them at an age where my parents, and teachers etc..were pretty amazed.
My strongest asset seems to be my ability to analyze what I hear and repeat it or add harmony.
This may describe why I have a thing for parrots!

FHM: What was it about house music that originally drew you to it?

CL: I first heard House music in the early-mid 80s when the world first heard it and the term was born.
I was interested in it then because I was recording electronic dance music, and House had a real “do it yourself” feel. Lots of samples, and crazy drum programs.
It was clear to me that this music was driven much more by the end-use dancefloor deployment, than some fancy studio, or some expensive producer’s take on what people should like.

It wasn’t until the late 90s that I purchased turntables and started spinning acid jazz, broken beat, atmospheric rrum and bass, etc. The final piece of the puzzle was the CDJ-1000 which I adopted immediately as a mechanism to play my own productions, and I started making tracks that were more about the beatmixed 4/4 house music format that we know, and my productions and DJing evolved in that direction.

FHM: We imagine you get asked this question quite a bit, but what is the story behind that funky, little wireless keyboard you play with the connecting hose that you blow into with your mouth?

CL: The “Hookahphone!!” Actually it’s an “Angel Melody Horn”. Some know the Hohner version as a “Melodica.”
It is an air powered thing that works like a harmonica or accordian in principal.
I thought it was kind of a novelty until I realized that it really sounds great thru a mic, and I could really play some cool keyboard stuff without plugging anything else into a mixer, etc. It’s become a bit of a trade mark. There is no Nitrous Oxide involved with the Hookahphone.

FHM: The hybrid of vocals, organic musical instruments, and house rhythms immediately categorized Chuck Love into a unique performance niche in the dance industry. As club DJs continue to embrace new forms of technology, the visual aspect of the music performer from the dance floor perspective has lost its visual appeal. You represent, quite possibly, the antidote to this issue. As you travel the world performing and sharing your sound, do you believe club DJs need to do more than just mix on CDJs, and pump their fists? Or has the day & age of the performing DJ being the center of attention simply past, and there is no return?

CL: What I do is different from a typical DJ in that I do more of a “performance set” that involves me doing the “Extreme Karaoke” versions of the material that people expect me to perform. This limits my track selection somewhat, but adds the live element to my sets.
The normal DJ set is not constrained by that, and will have much broader material to pick from and be mixed flawlessly on really loud monitors that I can’t have cranked because my mic is open so the comparison is kind of apples to oranges; however the fist pump is universal across both disciplines.

FHM: As innovative technology continues to evolve, how do you see your own live performance style being impacted?

CL: My new obsession is video production, and there are various technologies that make it possible for me to deploy edited video in my DJ sets. This will also impact how I make music moving forward since it opens up the idea of where the ‘Lead Vocal” or focal point of a track is based.
The best example to date is my “collaboration” with Rev. Jeremiah Wright for “People Clappin.”
Stay tuned to the Love Network for more of this approach both on the web and live!

FHM: In the past year, what cities across the world did you enjoy performing in the most? What made these experiences incrementally more enjoyable compared to other locations?

CL: I just played a great event in Knokke, Belguim which was cool because I got to meet and play with Raoul Belmans, Massimo Decosta, and Ingrid Hakenson aka the “Swirl People.” I’ve been a big fan and it’s great to make those connections.

Other highlights include Seoul Korea, Jakarta Indonesia, Dubai UAE, Bahrain, The Maldives, all over Australia and I’m very much looking forward to an upcoming trip to Ecuador. These exotic locations are cool and different, but the US venues I have repeatedly played are really starting to feel like home when I return.

FHM: Are there other dance music associated artists who currently inspire Chuck Love? If so, what are they doing that has caught your attention?

CL: Swirl People, Inland Knights, Atnarko, Cates and DPL, Rithma, Fred Everything, Oliver Desmet, Claude Von Stroke, Justin Martin, Miguel Migs, Mark Farina, Random Soul, DJ Heather, Joey Youngman. the list goes on.

FHM: Your label management comes from none other than the U.S mega-house superstars known as OM Records. What is it about OM that you feel best represents the interest of you ‘ the artist ‘ rather than managing your own independent label?

CL: OM has always represented diversity to me. From Mushroom Jazz to House of OM and everything in between.
The label has a great sense of A&R, and OM events are always rockin’.
I think that they will be involved in helping me with my own brand so it may work both ways.

FHM: Talk to us about your home base of Minneapolis , MN ‘ what is the local house music scene like there? Before you gained national and eventually international attention for your work, did Minneapolis embrace your work? Is there a network of up & coming artists that funky house music fans should be on the look out for?

CL: Minneapolis has always had a great core of heads that have supported me and others.
I started more on the Lounge tip here in town and broadened out to being a headliner out of town as my productions got some attention.
The ones to watch in Minneapolis are:

Bryan Gerard and David Drone (Celebrity Records)

Jevne (Onethirty Recordings)

Jason Heinrichs (Anomaly/Roomsa)

Spur, Nate Laurence, DJ Kash (Sol Funke’)

Fourfeet (Routine)

And Alexander East who does frequent Minneapolis gigs as well as has great presence on the international house scene.

FHM: Can you give our readers some insight on the major hardware and software components of your studio?

CL: The main components of my world are “Logic Studio” and “Final Cut Studio.”
These rock the house, as well as travel with me on the road.
For now I’m keeping production “in the box” for the most part as I spent 20 years dealing with crunchy audio cables and temporarily need a break from that.

FHM: Where do your creative inspirations come from? Is it other electronic dance music colleagues who help motivate you in the studio, or do these feelings derive elsewhere?

CL: Listening to others play music from electronic to classical.
It’s always an inspiration when I can just experience music without interacting with it.

FHM: Outside of music, what interests Chuck Love? From our observations, it seems parrots are one of many things that have quite the influence in your life’

CL: Travel has been a very important influence in the last couple of years.
I have met really great people on the road, and House Music has made the world very cozy while it is still a big place. I hope I can do it justice with pictures and videos as the Love Network continues to travel and shoot images and use them in the show.

FHM: What’s in store for the future? Any details you can share about upcoming 12′ / CD / MP3 releases, tours, artist/mix CD releases, and/or videos will be gladly appreciated’

CL: I’m currently finishing a mix CD “Get Large” on Large Music.
This should be out in October, and will include a new EP and tour.
“Love Will Return” is out as we speak and is a revisit of a Decibel NYC classic featuring Alison Crocket and is on Celebrity Records.
I will also be continuing to pump content thru the Love Network. Presently look for “People Clappin’” on OM records.
I’m hoping to get a proper showcase together for WMC 2009 that will represent the video show that will tour.
Also various remixes and video edits; too many to mention.

FHM: We thank Chuck Love for his content contribution to the FunkyHouseMusic.com portal. To learn more about Chuck Love and his background, be sure to check out:

www.chucklove.com

www.myspace.com/chucklove909

For Bookings: www.outloudagencygroup.com

Exclusive Review: Dirty South Featuring Rudy – Let It Go

Suneel — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Dirty South Featuring Rudy
Title: Let It Go
Label: Defected
Format: Digital
Release Date: 7/25/08
Audio Sample: Listen

A rather massive summer package from Simon Dunmore & company at Defected Records comes in the shape of Dirty South, Axwell, Chocolate Puma, & Dons vs DBS.

And you’re more than likely not going to guess who runs away with the champion mix!

The original Dirty South composition is strapped with the Ibiza formula of success with acoustic guitars, uplifting vocals, long breakdowns, and a touch of acid. For fans of his sound, you shouldn’t be disappointed.

Next up comes the mighty Axwell from Sweden and prior to listening, this reviewer was especially curious to see if the man was still carrying the magic touch of generating anthem upon anthem. The reinterpretation is somewhat minimal (what a surprise for 2008) and adds in an incremental layer of synths that pay a tribute to the days of hardcore in a slower fashion. A solid mix for those who dig the track, but don’t want something over the top…

The champion mix in this reviewer’s opinion comes from the Chocolate Puma. Staying true to the original but adding some wicked, tripped out percussive action while making very good use of the acoustic guitars/vocals and minimizing the breakdowns — this is the version I predict will be most frequently heard across clubs globally. ‘Nuff said. score one for the Puma!

Music Video:

Track Listing

“Let It Go” (Full Vocal Mix)

“Let It Go” (Axwell Remix)

“Let It Go” (Dons vs DBS Mix)

“Let It Go” (Chocolate Puma Vocal Mix)

Exclusive Review: Martin Solveig – I Want You

Suneel — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Martin Solveig
Title: I Want You
Label: Mixture
Format: Digital
Release Date: 7/15/08
Audio Sample: Listen

After the success of ‘C’est la vie’ and his collaboration with Fedde Le Grand, Martin launches the second missile from his latest album : ‘I want you’. This straight rock house production led by Martin’s well known associate Lee Fields is a junction between his past success ‘Everybody’ and the evolution showcased in the entire album. As always, Martin reveals a very specific vision, balancing obvious artillery with unexpected elements and a lot of personality.

With the help of the man on fire Laidback Luke and his smashing remix, and the alternative treatments of Tocadisco, Tepr and Mowgli, here comes one of the summer’s hottest packages!..

Music Video:

Tracklisting

I Want You (Original Mix)

I Want You (Laidback Luke Mix)

I Want You (Tocadisco Mix)

I Want You (Tepr Mix)

I Want You (Mowgli Mix)

Exclusive Review: John Dahlback – Pyramid

Dave Cortex — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: John Dahlback
Title: Pyramid
Label: Pickadoll
Format: Digital
Release Date: June 16, 2008
Audio Sample: Listen

Easily one of house music’s most prolific producers in 2008, Sweden’s John Dahlback gives us one of his strongest releases to date with Pyramid, released through his Pickadoll label, and also available through CR2.

As with most house music of late, Pyramid is really tough to classify. The track centers around an expressive (some might say silly) lead melody that is backed up by an entire battalion of synths – multiple pads, arps, and a subtle yet heavy bassline – with the rhythm carried along by simple but effective drums. The complex arrangement is definitely of a progressive nature, and the result is nothing short of a memorable masterpiece…

Unbelievably, the release comes with an equally amazing remix from Australia’s Dirty South. Following his trademark style, the Dirty South remix features an in-your-face piano melody that follows the lead, and heavy tom work in place of bassline. This remix is much simpler than the original, yet that allows the few remaining elements to stand out that much more, resulting in a punchier experience for the dancefloor. In addition, short yet dramatic pads that appear at the end of certain phrases and a punchier filtered synth give the track additional weight.

In short, what we have here is a release featuring some of the best work from two of today’s most respected producers. Don’t miss out.

Tracklist:

1. Pyramid – Original Mix

2. Pyramid – Dirty South Remix

Exclusive Interview: Hatiras

Suneel — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:00:00 +0000

It has been approximately three years since FunkyHouseMusic.com last interviewed funky/electro house phenom Hatiras. We decided we were long overdue in our coverage on the Toronto, Canada native. Here is a quick five question synopsis on what’s poppin’ in the world of Hatiras/Hatrax:

FHM: 2008 has been another big year for Hatiras. What has been your favorite moment so far?

Hatiras: I don’t even know where to begin answering that. There have been so many amazing, interesting, frightening and wacky moments. Hmm’ I really enjoyed my most recent gig in Tokyo. The people out there are amazing. It was also cool to see the Panama Canal this year. I’m happy with the success of my new label Hatrax and the positive response my new music has been receiving. Getting a #1 on Beatport with ‘Get Blahsted’ was great. Every day really is a wild adventure so it’s hard to pick out a single favorite moment.

FHM: What’s in store for Hatiras and Hatrax for the 2nd half of 2008?

Hatiras: I’m getting flooded with remix offers at the moment and am going to have to pick and choose the most fun projects. I don’t mind doing remixes but they really do take me away from my original projects. When I get a minute to settle down again I plan to whip out many more raw, fun, diverse, club bangers. I’ll be collaborating with more of my crazy Canadian friends (MC Flipside, Jelo, etc.) as well as keeping up the solo efforts. I’m also planning a CD release for the fall and am trying to think of a name and concept for it at the moment. It’ll probably feature a lot of my recent tunes and some new material.

FHM: While we’re on the topic, what was the motivation to switch the label name from Blow Media to Hatrax in 2008?

Hatiras: A lot of things happened in 2007 that made me realize that I needed to shift my focus back into production and on my personal career instead of doing all the time consuming things involved in running a label. Initially, Blow Media was my way of releasing my own music and introducing the world to a lot of new artists (Adam K, DJ Ortzy, Macca, Chris Kaeser, Hirshee, Jeff Daniels, etc.) The label took so much of my effort that it didn’t leave much time for me in the studio and for myself. Although it was successful, my partner and I decided to part ways. He went into another industry and I decided to set up a new label. I could have kept the brand going but decided to set all the artists free, and more importantly, to set myself free from all of the burdens that come with running a big label and dealing with a bunch of artists. I decided to get back to the basics and rebuild a more personal label (Hatrax) for all of my crazy ideas and sonic experiments. When I look back at it, starting Hatrax was the best thing that I ever did. It’s allowed me to feel truly creative and free again. I don’t think about the profitability of a song when I make it. I don’t care about radio play, licenses, sales or format. With Hatrax I make music that feels right to me and is fun. That’s it. Ironically, my music is doing better than ever now.

FHM: Your recent singles are consistently charting in the Beatport.com Top 10 charts. In your opinion, what is differentiating your productions from the rest of the funky & electro house community?

Hatiras: There’s so much variety out there now that I don’t know where to start the comparison. I think part of the success of my music comes from the fact that people have come to know and trust my name and will give my music a chance. I try to be consistent with both quality and quantity without overdoing it either. Another big part of it is the fact that I put a lot of effort into making my tunes sound clean, punchy and well produced. I also try to keep things interesting, daring and a little crazy. People seem to like that.

FHM: Outside of your own efforts, what artists currently are inspiring your artistic view points?

Hatiras: I actually get to hear a lot of new music by simply listening to my own radio show. I feature a different DJ/producer every week and get to hear a lot of new and interesting tunes and mixes. I can’t say I follow any one specific artist but find a lot of cool elements and sounds in music by Justice, Twocker, Soulwax, Sebastien Leger, Herve, Laidback Luke, Heavyfeet, Bart B More, etc. Feel free to check out the show at hatiras.com if you haven’t already. I also like showing up to my gigs a little early to check out what the locals are doing. There’s a lot of undiscovered talent out there with a lot to offer.

FHM: We thank Hatiras for his content contribution to the FunkyHouseMusic.com portal. To learn more about Hatiras and his label Hatrax, be sure to check out:

http://www.hatiras.com

http://www.myspace.com/hatiras

Exclusive Review: Hatiras & MC Flipside – Get Blahsted

Suneel — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 08:00:00 +0000

Artist: Hatiras & MC Flipside
Title: Get Blahsted
Label: Hatrax
Format: Digital
Release Date: 6/17/2008
Audio Sample: Listen

Looking for something slightly off-center? Perhaps you might want to add some color to your weekly dancefloor; or just fancy listening to rather twisted house music while sipping fine wine & impressing that future night time partner you just met?

There’s something brewing in Toronto, Canada these days, and house phenom Hatiras & good friend MC Flipside are definitely sippin’ the juice.

This new Hatrax label creation is one of those tracks that will need to be precisely placed during DJ sets as it has the potential to be the most memorable tune of the night. We preach this for the simple reason that it’s simply a *ucked up, grab you by the head & smack it up against the wall party tune…

It’s also one of those tracks that may sound very different at home vs. listening to it on a massive club sound system.

Are you listening? Or in the words of Josh Wink – are you there? For this reviewer, Hatiras is truly an innovative force in the house music genre, constantly dedicating himself to improving the genre as a whole. This is definitely one of his more daring projects.

Track Listing

“Get Blahsted” (Original Vocal Mix)

“Get Blahsted” (Instrumental)

“Get Blahsted” (Acapella Tool)

Exclusive Interview: Lazy Rich

Dave Cortex — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 08:00:00 +0000

For the final installment of our WMC 2008 interview series, we talked with Vancouver’s Lazy Rich, who has been recently blowing up the download charts with releases on Plasmapool, StereoSoul Recordings, and more.

FHM: Your personal favorite tune of the 2008 WMC?

LR: Cocotte – Teenage Bad Girl

FHM: The overall biggest tune of the 2008 WMC

LR:Give it up for me – Sydney Blue

FHM: Best party of the 2008 WMC?

LR:SOS @ Pawn Shop

FHM:Who rocked it?

LR:Ewan Pearson

FHM:What are your plans for the rest of 2008?

LR:Hookers and / or blow