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Record Reviews


March 2010 Record Review | D.I.E. - Detroit Party Train:



The party train has arrived, and its here with 4 choice cuts of pure Detroit Techno Bass. After great success with the "FM Sucks" E.P., D.I.E. is back on M.A.P. Records with a funky and very old school influenced release that is sure to please. The First track is none other than "Detroit Party Train", a soulful jam based on early Techno influences, with a bassline that grabs you from the very beginning. Gleaming arpeggios and pounding beats create the groove here as vocoders and samples work their magic. Side A also features an alternate version of the track, giving it a slightly different feel but not much from the original.

On the B side we have a true beauty, "Detroit Technobass" is a dancefloor bomb packed with raw beats, elegant pads, and unforgiving basslines that are sure to deliver the effect you are looking for from Detroit. Side B also has a dub of the original, offering a simpler version that makes for a great battle tool.

Over all this record is an absolute must have from a label that is consistently putting out material that is keeping up the pressure in clubs around the world. Its really great to see M.A.P. Records back on the Electro/Techno map, bringing us timeless Technobass classics that set the standard for today's hottest sound.


Written by: Santino Fernandez - technoBass.net

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February 2010 Record Review | Direct Beat - Archive Series 01:



Just when you were depressed, angry, and melancholic about the disappearance of Direct Beat Records, they return. Yes, that's right! Your old school favorite Techno Bass label is back with represses of the original material released over the course of the '90s and early '00s. Although no new material is expected anytime soon, perhaps never, they are giving anyone that missed out the opportunity to grab one of these classics in a compilation series that is bundling together some of the hottest Techno Bass hits from Detroit artists like X-ile, AUX 88, Microknox, and the infamous Will Web.

Side A opens up with one of AUX 88's most classic hits. Whether it is Electro or Techno to you, "ElectroTechno" is sure to deliver the funk you want with those intriguing and mysterious melodies that AUX is known for. Following up is the original 1996 debut of Posatronix's pure Detroit delight "Shake it", which is a timeless Techno Bass smasher from one of the originators of the scene. After having blown away crowds with his witty "From The Mind Of The Master", DJ Di'jital's 1999 release "360 Degrees" comes up heavy with acid basslines and tough beats, never leaving out those funky pads.

Next up is one of Detroit's gems, Will Web, with the track "Mirrorshades", released in 1995 on the "Cosmic Driveby" E.P. ( DB 011 ), along with the track "Spacewalk". Side A closes up with one of the more obscure, yet funkiest of the crew...X-ile! a duo between Marnita Harris and LaToya Vaughn. Having been produced in part by AUX 88, these tracks were relentless and put you right on the floor. "I wanna" is probably one of the duo's most notable releases. A seductive, fast paced bombshell with a gritty bassline that sends chills up and down your spine.

Side B starts off with another one of AUX's iconic anthems, "My AUX Mind". A dark, deep track with a powerful, yet gloomy bassline that grabs you from within. Microknox's upbeat "Transmission", is a finely tuned jam, specially designed for the dancefloor. Intricate arpeggios and Motown inspired pads, kick up the energy while the bumpin' beats take you on a ride through the "D". Closing things up is another beauty by AUX 88 called "Break It Down". Originally released in 1996 on DB 019, this is the way Detroit gets down...raw! unforgiving basslines, powerful kicks and snares, make way for elegant strings and distorted vocals that bring you back to the old days. Last on the 12" is Drebrown's "Killing Quazar", off of the "Seductive Technology" E.P. ( DB 043 ), which also featured 2 mixes of the song "Rejuvenated Rhythm".

In a time where many of the old school pioneers and great artists that gave birth to Electro Funk and Techno Bass are making their way back into the scene, it truly brings it back full circle having Direct Beat's material re-released. For many of the younger generations that perhaps were not very aware of their influence or the part they played in carrying forward the Electro/Techno sound, the resurgence of this label and its iconic releases is like the opening of a time capsule, where many secrets lie, and unexpected things await. So next time you are on the street or a forum and someone tells you that the new Electro sounds are too much like Techno, you tell them: hell yeah! because Detroit is where most of what we love about Electronic Music came from, not just in terms of Techno, but also Electro...to them we say: Electro-Techno forever!


Written by: Santino Fernandez - technoBass.net

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January 2010 Record Review | Global Surveyor Phase 3:



The long awaited Global Surveyor Phase 3 is finally here! and yes, it offers not just the usual quality that you've come to expect from Dominance Electricity, but more...way more! As if the cover art wasn't enough, depicting a biblical figure being visited by what has come to be termed in historical circles as: the "Ancient Astronaut" theory, the music takes us back out to galaxies far away where the only thing familiar is the music of the spheres...and what a sweet sound it is!

This new album features not just a wide array of Electro Funk and Electro/Techno Bass hits, but also delves into the Electronica world, where slower and more atmospheric masterpieces by artists like Weltwirstchaft, Geoglyph, and Varia, create beautiful synthetic melodies and cosmic effects that balance out this record, making it as much of a dancefloor tool, as it is a listening pleasure.

The first track we ought to mention is the DBS remix of the incredible collaboration between K-1 of AUX 88, and Gab.Gato of The Villains Inc. Effected voices and vocoders guide you through twisted sequences as they weave their way around dark and sci-fi strings, while old school beats begin to drop some sbass down and into your speakers...a must have, and another incredible remix by Dynamik Bass System!

Middle Men's "Space Quest", does not let off the thrust as you are taken into a strange world where the question of whether extraterrestrial life exists is no longer a possibility but a reality. At first, this track seems like an incredibly dark and mysterious one, but it has some surprising changes to it that take it from its obscure core, to a mellower bridge featuring classic 303s and enlightening strings, only to abduct you back to that foreign place you thought you were safe from. A genius track from the Middle Men, who time and time again prove that they can do almost anything when it comes to Electro.

After rewiring your brain with his exquisite "Solar Storm" on Streetsounds Vol. 2, Lektroid brings us here a truly fascinating joy ride full of intricate vocoder action, captivating arpeggios and uplifting strings that make this one of the best tracks on this album...an exciting artist to watch these days! Keeping up the momentum is Kalson's "Waiting In The Valley", another magnificient power house where melancholic visions are expressed through beautifully crafted pads and luminous syncopations, while a crushing bassline takes the lead along with hard hitting 808 beats, scoring yet another point for Kalson's young, but ambitious music career that has him destined to be a force to be reckoned with.

Brightening things up a bit is Sol Dat's remix of Paul Blackford's "Quasar". Keeping up with Blackford's typical sped up tempos, carefully composed pads take charge in this song making it a melodic dreamworld...but dont be caught sleeping, because the breakdowns in this track, although not as heavy as some of the others, still require you to move your body to the beat as vocoders and animated sounds give this track a darker feel.

Featuring many other great songs by Direct Control, Dagobert, The Exaltics, Mesak, CPU, and even the return of Keen K of Over X Posure Records, this compilation once again sets the standard for today's Electro/Techno sound. Dominance Electricity has a careful way of choosing its artists and putting together its releases, making the label a very influential force that never looses its integrity. Their strong emphasis on melodic structure, while not gravitating away from the feel that we all look for in Electro Funk, Techno Bass, and even Electronica, is something to be respected and acknowledged as a key reason why there is a strong resurgence in well composed music that goes beyond making tracks or even fully arranged songs...we are talking masterpieces here!


Written by: Santino Fernandez - technoBass.net

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December 2009 Record Review | Scape One - Diffusion Of Innovations:



Bass4Bots is back with their 3rd installment, this time with none other than the legendary Scape One. That's right, the man who brought you such hit releases like the Planet Funk Express series on Elektrix, Galaxy Of Funk ( Drivecom ), and Neural Grafting ( Templedog ), has returned to earth once again to invade your speakers with more of his Sci Fi Electro/Techno Funk from light years away.

"Diffusion Of Innovations", the title track, is a fast paced and rhythmic dance floor mover, with an array of percussive elements that gives this track almost a tribal feel...its what a Rain Dance in 3065 A.D. would sound like! On the other hand, "Elements of Diffusion" starts to generate some mystery with dark, melodic, but abstract pads that combine with some mind altering sounds, while a solid 808 beat leads you further into Scape One's galaxy of funk.

Things slow down a bit tempowise, but "Variations Of The Form" doesn't seize to mesmerize you with enigmatic effects and carefully programmed sequences, taking you somewhere between the 80s, the future, and some other place where you are showered by electronic particles of cosmic synthesis. "Adaptive Adoption" kicks the tempo back up, but not too much. Here we are led through a wormhole, where a syncopated melody, carried by what almost seems like a 4x4 beat is met by an array of twisted sounds, ranging from lower frequencies to dimensional tearing oscillations from deep within the machines.

"Source Of Innovation" starts to bring us back to speed but shows no mercy, a dark and profound track here! A classic string lays the way as a sequenced melody takes charge "a la Rother". A vocoder makes its way in reminding you what this is: Electro! Great song, lots of feeling and mystery...A different sound altogether for Scape One.

Last but not least is "Disruptive Adaptation". As a song that lives up to its name, it begins to disrupt your nervous system with mind bending sounds and a wicked, twisted bassline. A nice steady beat takes you on a ride through an abstract world in a galaxy far, far away! but don't worry, as long as Scape One is navigating, you'll never find your way again, space is the place and it is his domain...hold on tight!

The great thing about Bass4Bots is their conceptual approach to their releases, something that is unfortunately not very common this day in age in music, or many of the arts in general. This new release touches on the subject of Technological Innovation, and how through the spread of knowledge, it has affected our lives and cultures as we move into the future. A great idea to bring forth in an age of Large Hadron Colliders and Nano Computing Systems that can process a trillion processes per second.

Likewise, the great thing about Scape One is his relentless inspiration for all things Technological and Scientific. A true purveyor of Sci Fi Electro/Techno, he never seizes to amaze with so many different styles, ranging from moody and profound, to abstract and simply awe inspiring...a great musician and a visionary in a time where the future has met its present day and the possibilies are infinite and without barriers.

Diffusion of Innovations

"The diffusion process can be used to describe the effect that the source of innovation has had on the musical social network for over four decades (archetype: electro music).

Partially lying dormant while effecting only specialised communities who have within themselves the knowledge of the source's truest form. Eventually these elements have adapted to further social networks until there are many forms, although in a disrupted and adapted version of the original source of innovation.

With every new generation a different aspect of influence can be effected due to social changes, influences from other sources and diffused descendants of the original source. The effect can also react to geographic adaptations that can lead to variants of the form. This may be due to various implications that can vary from different cities and countries." - Scape One


Written by: Santino Fernandez - technoBass.net

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November 2009 Record Review | Robodrum - Message:



The Eastern European label Elektropunkz is back with their 23rd installment called "Message", by Poland's Robodrum. 8 killer tracks released on digital format full of hard boomin' beats, deep warm pads and strings, and mind bending sounds that will tantalize your every neuron.

Robodrum got inspired to get into this music by early '80s songs like Michael Jackson's "Bad", as well as early Hip Hop pioneers like Afrika Bambataa ( whom the artist had the pleasure to meet and get a blessing from ). In the '90s, it was Technotronic, C+C Music Factory, and Kriss kross. Today, he brings us probably some of the most futuristic Techno Bass we've experienced in quite some time.

Robodrum's debut album takes a look at life in the future, where machines control life and androids are the only thing left reminiscent of humans. Might sound like the typical doom and gloom scenario brought forth by artists like Bass Junkie or Boris Divider, but although there are some elements of this found here, this version is a bit more upbeat and doesnt forget that even machines need some funk.

From the title track "Message", which delivers a heavy industrial grinder, full of syncopated computer glitches and melancholic pads, to the Cybernetic "Create Me", Robodrum fuses his old school influences with cutting edge sounds and effects, creating a release that is sure to inspire the masses while it obliterates sound systems.

This release is available now from djshop.de and skylark-digital.pl, and can also be downloaded for free as 128kbps MP3s through Fairtilizer and Last.FM. This release is a must have for anyone looking for deep, thoughtful, and forward thinking Techno Bass that creates cinematic soundscapes and otherworldly rhythms. A great first release for Robodrum, while it is yet another hit for the Elektropunkz label, which has been devastating dancefloors with their unique and complex releases.


Written by: Santino Fernandez - technoBass.net

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October 2009 Record Review | Koova - The Fermi Paradox:



Based in London, Koova brings us a brand new E.P. on the Croatian label Crobot Musik called, "The Fermi Paradox". Full of Detroit influences, this album takes you back to the roots for some proper Techno Bass action that is sure to leave dancefloors burning. Releases like this one are rare this day in age, and it doesnt dissapoint with 3 great tracks full of hypnotic melodies and intricate patterns.

The first track, 'Unrealised", is a 4x4 treat with lush and mysterious pads, followed by a gripping bassline that reminds me of artists like AUX 88 or Drexciya. We need more Techno like this! Full of soul and not lacking that funky abstract side that gets you on the floor.

The next track is called "Click Track", just recently making the Streetsounds Electro charts, this track is ready for deployment to annihilate speakers all around the world. A 303 bassline takes hold as the track progresses. I really like the sound here, seems to carry the tradition of gritty Detroit style basslines while retaining that acidy sound that we all love more and more from the TB-303. Lots of clap action here while a sweeping pad tears the dimensional veil behind the song, allowing a beautiful string to convey the emotional side of the track.

Last but not least of course, we have "Smell Of Mammal". This sped up funky track is very futuristic and melodic, hovering somewhere in between Electro Funk and Techno Bass with lots of Cowbells, rimshots, and 808s. A stab and bassline are the first sign of melodies that we hear, before switching up into what almost sounds like another track commencing. As a second bassline joins the fight, an intricate array of sounds wrap this track into a uplifting and soulful song that could only leave you wanting more.

Koova is warmly welcomed to the roster of brilliant artists that the Electro/Techno scene has to offer. Unfortunately not much is known about them yet, but expect much more to come from these guys as they continue to unleash their energy unto the masses. I also think its important to note that the return of Crobot Musik is something to be very happy about, these guys that compile the label, from N-Ter and Xed, to Paul Blackford and Kalson are some of the most talented and original producers of our current times.


Written by: Santino Fernandez - technoBass.net

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September 2009 Record Review | One Nation Under Bass:



Devine Disorder Records is truly a fresh face in the Florida Electro and Breaks scene. Composed of artists like DJR21, Dark Vektor, Dwellz Rawks, etc, this label is aiming at taking the sound of the region to the next level, embracing a global perspective which is what makes Electro/Techno so versatile.

This new release is called "One Nation Under Bass", and features label head Dwellz Rawkz, the Catalonian mastermind Dark Vektor, and Germany's Magnetic Bass Force ( also on Subsonic Device ).

The first track, Devine By Dezine, is by none other than Dwellz Rawkz himself. This track at first glance might make you think that this is another remix of Kraftwerk's Numbers, but as you work your way in to the track you realize this is far from true.

A metallic, almost Trance-like Bassline drops with the beat as voice samples echo back and forth with the groove. A glittering melody adds the mood here as Kraftwerk samples keep sneaking their way in reminding you of who probably helped inspire this track...this one is hot to the touch! the way tracks with song samples should be: full of personal ingenuity, moving things forward instead of simply replicating.

Next we have the incredible "Mind Abduction" by Dark Vektor. This is more of an Electro Funk gem here, slowing the tempo down a bit. An old school sounding bassline takes the lead as intricate patterns weave their way into the track. Lush and enigmatic pads begin to unravel the true melodic nature of this song as a vocoded voice suggests the solution to the world's problems: Mind Abduction! this track is a must have, a true classic.

Last but certainly not least, is the track by Magnetic Bass Force. You may remember him from the hit E.P. on Subsonic Device called "European Electro Bass Development". This track is a bass heavy dancefloor bomb that starts you off with a syncopated wave of bass that almost sounds like a rubber band of low frequency oscillations. The pads in this track are very lush and have a nice warm but dark melody, while an arpeggio sneaks in from behind to carry things forward. A minimal track in some ways but with a very catchy groove...play this and play it hard!

This release is out now and available through all your favorite digital download shops as well as the Direct Download Devine Disorder Records store.


Written by: Santino Fernandez - technoBass.net

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August 2009 Record Review | Dark Vektor - Wires E.P.:



Dark Vektor is truly an inspiring musician, never replicating, just moving forward. If you followed his releases on Djax Up Beats, FBI Recordings, and Votox Records under his other moniker "Sbles3plex", then you know his productions are unmatched. Powerful dancefloor beats, thought provoking strings, soul grabbing loops and vocoders that are very unique and profound. Always putting a message in his music, Dark Vektor speaks to all of us through this universal language we call music, whether its in English, Spanish, or Catalonian ( his native language ).

Also a Techno producer, Ivan Arnau is very influenced by AUX 88 and the Detroit Techno Bass Sound. Evident in all of his productions, Ivan has helped evolve the sound of Techno Bass by continuing to fuse Electro Funk, Techno, and Miami Bass into a sound that is becoming more and more prevalent in the Electro scene.

His latest release comes out under a brand new Spanish imprint called "Titan's Halo Records". With only one release, we can already begin to see exactly where this label is headed. Top quality mastering and packaging, incredible illustrations and an ear for which artists are on top of the Electro/Techno music scene.

The first song on the 12" is the already infamous theme track, "Wires". This track has been making its rounds on all of the top radio shows like The Future Shock, Jam On The Groove, and Global Funk Radio's "The Project", leaving fans speechless and speakers smoking. Also featured on the new Streetsounds Nu Electro compilation, Dark Vektor is climbing quickly to the top, even reaching the #1 spot of the Electro chart and keeping it for a few weeks.

This track kicks off with a funky beat, bringing in the voices ( by Downrocks ), while zapping, glitchy sounds begin to work their way into the track. The track quickly gains momentum as the melodic groove takes over, taking this track to heights seldom seen in this type of music...absolute Electric mayhem.

The next track on the E.P. is a dark Electro Funk gem called Extrany. This track has a slower tempo than Wires, but features a similar style of production by way of the loops used. The voices are not easy to understand, but add a very nice, dark and robotic atmosphere to the track, while a pad that almost seems to disintegrate on release blends in behind the beats and other melodies...this is Sci Fi Electro Funk at its best!

Last but certainly not least is the remix of Wires by Hydraulix, the duo from Miami that run Kuad Recordings. This is a great twist on the original, simplifying the voices, yet amplifying the overall composition of the song. Bass heavy beats and a new loop begin to fuse with some of the elements of the original, as mysterious pads begin to take control and add a deep and dark feel to the song.

Look for much more to come from Dark Vektor in the future, including a remix of Morphogenetic's track "Techno Bass Is Back!" which will be released on technoBass.net's new upcoming imprint "Techno Bass Music", featuring AUX 88, as well as a collaboration between two of Detroit's finest up and coming artists, Geoff Johnson and Wavefirm. Other artists to be announced.

The future looks very bright for Titan's halo Records, making their mark with a fantastic release by a fantastic artist...space is the frontier, and Titan's Halo Records knows no boundaries. Stay tuned!


Written by: Santino Fernandez - technoBass.net

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July 2009 Record Review | Cultivated Electronics EP 004:



Cultivated Electronics is a label headed by Sync 24. You may have heard his releases on Andrea Parker's Touchin' Bass label, as well as his collaborations under the aliases Cultek and Signal Type. With 4 releases under it's sleeve, the label has been gaining very steady momentum over the past couple of years releasing artists like Gods Of Technology ( also released on the new Streetsounds compilation ), ADJ, Point 7, and Abstrakt Knights.

The first track is led by none other than Silicon Scally. It's great to see the legendary Carl Finlow back in action and on this fantastic label. This track is very reminiscent of the previous works released by the artist, but its got a bit more of an upbeat, Technoey feel not always associated with the Silicon Scally project. As the beat takes you through the doorway, you are met by what almost sounds like a battle scene from a Star Wars movie, with sounds coming from every direction as catchy grooves begin to wrap this track up into a tightly produced piece of work by one of Electro's most innovative and influential musicians.

Next we have a new one by Sync 24, a track called "Soft Slip". This track is very abstract, with voice samples being effected in the background, stuttering back and forth as the other sounds begin to surface. One of the things i like about this track, although a simple thing to note, is the way in which the cowbells are effected, not just giving the track the usual old school feel, but rather taking it to the next level. This is as great a track for clubs as it is for listening, with futuristic melodies and a very dark and spacey atmosphere altogether.

14-B, the track by Signal Type, is probably my favorite on the EP. This track is very melodic, with light, yet beautiful pads that dance behind an incredible array of some of the most detailed and well crafted sounds i have ever heard. In many ways, this track is like a fusion of old school Electro with the newer styles of Techno Bass. Listening to this song is like traveling through some sort of wormhole, where the most unexpected things happen, yet you are left feeling a sense of familiarity as the melodies begin to take control...a fascinating ride!

Last but not least, we have another jam by Matt Whitehead. You may remember him from the Streetsounds chart entry track called "Beat The Heat". This track has got a little less of the old school feel that Beat The Heat had, gravitating more towards a Techno influenced style of production with a bassline that morphs into many versions of itself, while some funky pads and spaced out loops race back and forth as you try and catch up with what is happening...a great track!

This release is due to be published on the 6th of July on 12" vinyl, adding yet another jewel to the catalog of a label that is destined to be a force to be reckoned with. The wonderful thing about Cultivated Electronics is not just the innovation and incredible talent in the production of the music, but the fact that it has an obvious awareness of the roots of the Electro/Techno sound, keeping true to the vibes of the culture while pushing forward, way forward, quickly becoming a truly influential icon that will help re-draw the blueprints of this music affecting generations to come.

Written by: Santino Fernandez - technoBass.net

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June 2009 Record Review | Various - Street Sounds Nu Electro Volume 1 ( 2x CD ):



Streetsounds Records, the most legendary Electro label is back! Just in time for the 25th anniversary of the birth of the label, Morgan khan re-launches this truly influential icon in the history of the sound.

The new series of Electro volumes will be called “Nu Electro”, and will be showcasing the rebirth of old school-influenced Electro as well as the new school sound often referred to as Techno Bass.

Volume 1 is out now and features tracks by legendary Detroit Techno Bass pioneers A.U.X. 88, as well as Dark Vektor ( Dona-li Records, Fundamental Bass Intelligence ) and Blastromen from XOX Records.

While beginning to focus more on the evolution of the Electro sound since its decline in the late ‘80s, Streetsounds is keeping true to its roots with the original Electro-Funk sound and brings back legendary pioneers such as Egyptian Lover, and Newcleus with a couple of new hits that are bound to become as much classics as their original material.

Already receiving a great deal of attention from press sources such as DJ Magazine, B & S, and iDJ Magazine, the “Nu Electro Vol. 1” compilation will begin to pave the way to a new era in Electro compilations that will help the sound continue to evolve not only from the rebirth of the original old school Electro Funk sound, but also the Detroit influenced style of Techno Bass that influenced the world so much with its fusion of other genres such as Miami Bass, Techno, and Classical Music.

Let the games begin! May this new and exciting period in the sound of Electro finally set the record straight on the original roots of the sound and where its evolution eventually led it to. Streetsounds once again proves that the only way forward with music is through true innovation and desire to craft this art with the proper dedication that only few men like Morgan can give.

Written By: Santino Fernandez - technoBass.net

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May 2009 Record Review | Bass Junkie - Comply ( 2x CD ):



Bass Junkie is obviously no amateur in the Electro/Techno scene. With releases dating back to the late 90's on famous labels like Breakin' Records, Touchin' Bass, and lately, Streetsounds, he has been enough of a purveyor of the Nu Electro and Techno Bass scenes that he has earned his keep. One of his most successful endeavors aside from being an incredibly talented musician, has been his infamous Battle Trax label. His new double CD album "Comply", is an adrenaline rush of Electrobotic Bass that will take your mind and ears on a journey through an apocalyptic world where the machines rule and humans are an "Obsolete Design".

Comply, the main song off the album is a bass heavy dancefloor bomb with deep and lush pads, accompanied by a spine chilling pitched down voice delivering a final message to humankind: Game Over! Submission ( Control The Bass ), is an old school-oriented blaster with some deep pounding bass and a really funky loop that take you back to the days where it all started. A sampled voice from the old school classic "Security", brings the vocal element to the track in spoken word, adding a more suddle and dark atmosphere to the song.

Dance, the hit from the infamous Egyptian Lover, is brought back here remixed in a typical Bass Junkie fashion, adding some of his amazing basslines, speaker-shattering bass kicks, and funky vocoders, while retaining the melodic element of the original track. Finally, to close on the highlights for CD #1, Out Of The Unknown is a funky spaced out mind bender full of over-compressed bass kicks, echoing voice samples that dance back and forth behind the beat along with some of his signature basslines and loops.

On the second CD, the first track that comes to mind is none other than the first track on the disc. Infiltrator is probably one my favorite tracks on this whole album, in some ways it is a very soothing track that increases the pressure bit by bit, on the other hand, its got a very funky groove to it that makes this track as great a club hit as it does a cruisin' banger.

Another mind blowing resurrection by Bass Junkie on this new release is The Unknown DJ's "Beatronic". The track is almost an exact replica, maintaining all of the original melodies and loops, but it has been completely re-written to create a 21st century version that is likely to become as much a classic as the original.

Jammin' The Box, one of the funkier tracks on the album, is a delightful journey from the past to the present with a really gritty bassline that seems to bend to the beat, while some dark and moody breakdowns take the track into some unexpected places.

Finally, Electrafluid, is a glitchy computer bass phenomenon with broken up snares that border almost more on Breaks than Electro, yet the rimshots and steady tempo keep the track within boundaries, not letting it stray too far from Bass Junkie's amazing and captivating Electro/Techno sound that people have come to love him for.

Many of the other tracks on the album have been released on various labels and are very familiar record bin classics, while this is his last release as Bass Junkie, Phil Klein will continue to do work with legendary Pseudonyms like Kronos Device and I.B.M., as well as new collaborations under names like The Middle Men, Gods Of Technology, and The Bassing Guild.

If this is to be the closing chapter in the history of Bass Junkie's discography, then let this be one of the best musical stories ever told in the history of Electro Funk and Techno Bass. Phil Klein is a producer that not only has proven to be cutting edge and full of innovation, but also someone that shows that longevity is the key to becoming a truly influencing force in music. Don't miss out on this CD, it'll never leave your player! and, if i haven't mentioned that this release has Bass, well...get it! you may just become as much a bass junkie as the Junkie himself.

Written By: Santino Fernandez - technoBass.net

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April 2009 Record Review | AUX 88 - Mad Scientist:



The simbiant beings Tucker and Hamilton, known as AUX 88, have been re-assimilated into a dark simbiant species of technological voice and mind...this is their return as Mad Scientist! This new CD is jam packed with 18 tracks full of the usual flavor you've come to expect and love from the Detroit duo, yet, it has evolved into something almost completely different.

Voice Modulation, a slowed down Electro/Techno-Hop track displays a glitchier side of AUX 88 that i had never heard before. A nice bassline takes us into the abyss as various elements begin to ricochet off each other. The voices are barely effected, giving us that pure, dark and funky energy that they are known for, letting us know that the boys are back from the future to bring us "beats hardcore" to synthesize the dancefloor.

Space Satellites, however, is a full-on synthesis utopia that takes us to the greater depths of space and back into orbit with Mother Earth as we are led to contemplate the wonderful technology we have come to use to communicate with one another. This track is a beautiful expression of classical music theory manifested through synthesizers and shows that AUX 88 has really progressed heavily in their ability to layer string upon string which deeply expresses their emotion for their music.

Another one of these is E-Theory, a short downtempo atmospheric that again showcases the wonderful direction they have taken with creating incredibly deep and harmonius music that relaxes the senses and awakens the soul, taking you on cosmic journeys of subsonic sound and space.

The main track, Mad Scientist, is in some ways reminiscent of their old stuff, but fresh and more matured. The voices have a very melodic thing to them that really gets you into the groove of the track, while rich and wholesome strings along with a very liquidy bassline lift you up off your seat and to the floor to make you jam to their absolute madness...great theme track!

Annihilating The Rhythm is another abstract, glitchy track that is quite unusual for AUX 88. This one really begins to push the sound barriers as it hits you left and right with some very dark tones that are bound to send chills down your spine. Finally, for my highlights on the CD, Electronic Robots is a delightful dancefloor bomb with some really cool Speak n Spell samples intertwined with their own voices, accompanied by some really nice pads that add a great sci fi sort of feel to the song, making it one of my favorites on the album.

The CD also offers some really amazing 4x4 Techno tracks that show that these two have not forgotten their roots, one that comes to mind specifically is Time Portal. This track has a really cool bassline that reminds me of some good old Electro/Techno Bass, driven by this loop that simply grabs you from the inside to make you wanna get on down to the awesome and legendary AUX sound.

To those avid fans of the Electro/Techno Bass sound, this newbie from AUX 88 will nurture your every need, while refreshing your perception of the sound altogether. To those that dont know Electro/Techno, these are now your 18 Commandments, obey them well!

Written By: Santino Fernandez - technoBass.net

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