Albums | Taim & Stephani B team up for explosive new release ‘Insane’ on Perfect Havoc
Posted by VMan on March 5, 2024
The multi-faceted drummer, DJ and producer, Stephani B teams up with melodic house
producer, Taim for new single ‘Insane’ on the always on-point London imprint, Perfect
Havoc. Combining Taim’s rough but restrained balance of soul and energy with Stephani’s
percussive skills and vocal topline, ‘Insane’ is an explosive house cut ready to smash up
dancefloors everywhere.
Hailing from Manchester UK, Stephani B has captivated an audience of millions through her
online remixes and hybrid approach of live drumming and sampling whilst DJing. A poster
girl for Roland’s SPD-SX Pro Sampling Pad, Stephani’s electrifying, live mash ups have
bowled over crowds at Ministry of Sound London, with the Ibiza Music Orchestra, and now
she’s winning over fans as a producer too. Her 2023 debut single ‘Sober (La Da Dee)’ – in
collaboration with Movada – served up the club ready energy that saw spins on BBC Radio
1, a sync on Love Island UK, and a swelling following of over 880k followers on TikTok and
Instagram alone. With forthcoming appearances at Victorious Festival and Blackthorn Proud
2 Bee, get ready to be captivated by the mind-blowing Stephani B.
Joining Stephani on this latest release from the other side of the Pennines in the UK is
Yorkshire-born talent, Taim. Known for his expertly produced club-ready tracks with melodic
toplines, Taim has been a regular on the house and bass scene since his debut track ‘First
Time’ in 2015. While the charismatic DJ and producer has an impressive discography on heavyweight labels and channels such as Columbia, Circus, Get Twisted, UKF, and his biggest track to date ‘If You Need’ with ALYSS on Confession in 2021; it’s been almost 18 months since the release of the huge ‘What Did You Say’ on Thrive in October 2022. It’s an exciting time to have Taim back in the game.
With 2024 now fully underway, the releases on Perfect Havoc have been coming thick and
fast, each bringing a bigger sound and energy than before as the label embarks on its ninth
year. With further releases lined up from Ros T, XORO, Chaney and more, Perfect Havoc
continues to push the envelope of crossover house music and to build on over 10 billion
global streams, six UK Top 20 singles and multiple platinum, gold, and silver awards.
Albums | Tobtok & PS1 Join Forces For Debut Collaboration ‘Drive’
Posted by VMan on February 11, 2024
UK independent dance label, Perfect Havoc, isn’t slowing down in 2024. February welcomes
a label first as influential electronic Swedish talent, Tobtok, joins forces with NYC native,
PS1. In their debut collaboration ‘Drive’ they combine their multi-platinum selling talents into
a captivating vocal-led cut, and feature the voice of fast-rising alt-pop star, Georgia Meek.
Tobtok, also known as Tobias Karlsson, with a substantial following of more than 700k monthly Spotify listeners, stands out as a highly skilled artist at the forefront of the Swedish electronic scene. Renowned for his original tracks such as the double platinum ‘Fast Car’, remixes, and collaborations with artists like Joel Corry, Robin Schulz, and Karen Harding, Tobtok has secured deals with prestigious labels such as Ministry of Sound, Soave, Kitsuné, and his home of many years, Perfect Havoc.
Noteworthy achievements include Tobtok’s ‘Miami Poolside’ compilation for Toolroom Records, and the 2020 release ‘New Levels,’ which garnered BBC Radio 1’s ‘Tune of the Week’ and prominent DJ support from Sam Feldt, Sigala, and Tiësto. Tobtok’s evolving sound has embraced a more experimental and dancefloor-oriented production style of late, leading to his 2023 debut EP ‘My Friends’ with farfetch’d, and further signings to the respected Selected label. With over 650m streams to his name, Tobtok continues to innovate in each and every studio production.
Albums | Josh Teed drops “Just Breathe”
Posted by VMan on February 9, 2024
Denver-based experimental bass producer and violinist Josh Teed has made a name for himself through his distinct approach to electronic music.
Blending expertly crafted, left-of-center bass sound design, symphonic instrumentation, and lush, ethereal atmospheres, Josh Teed’s style has led him to touring slots with big name bass acts such as CloZee, Dirtwire, and Koan Sound; a performance at a Pretty Lights Official Pre Party; releases on influential label Gravitas; and collaborations with artists such as Chmura, Notlö, and more.
Now, following the release of his 2022 full-length album Recurring Dream and subsequent remix album, Josh Teed is revving up towards his next EP, Taking It All In – a 6-track package being released via The Gradient Perspective Records.
Filled to the brim with cinematic electronic stylings and Teed’s signature bass production, the artist designed his new EP to be a reflection of his life journey thus far. Having grown up in New Hampshire, lived in Vietnam as a basketball player and coach, and then entered the music industry as a bass music disruptor, Taking It All In represents a rumination on life’s twists and turns – and acts a reminder to cherish every moment and embrace whatever might come your way.
As a result, Josh Teed’s new EP retains many of the elements his fans have grown to love while pushing his sound into new directions. With a further emphasis on melodic expression, lead vocals, and granular synthesis, Taking It All In seamlessly blends pop sensibilities with intricate production flourishes, a combination that marks a new sonic turn in Teed’s career.
“‘Just Breathe’ was one of my favorite tracks to work on from this upcoming EP. The combination of Chuuwee’s lyrical skills and Logan’s (Bl?m) beautiful voice really make for a unique, soulful vibe in this tune. This EP was about stepping out of my normal wheelhouse, and this track is the one that puts that approach on full display.
“As for the tour, this will be my 3rd national headline tour, and I wanted to push myself to make this one the best yet. I’ll be adding piano and electronic drum pad into my sets alongside the violin now, and will be carefully curating the sets along with custom visuals.” – Josh Teed
Albums | $TEVOXCV Drops New Album, ‘NIGHTS IN GIDI’
Posted by VMan on February 6, 2024
Born Steve Okolo, $tevoxcv emerges as a dynamic force in the realm of afrobeats and hip-hop, bringing forth a refreshing blend of genres that captivates audiences worldwide. Hailing from Nigeria but finding creative solace in London, $tevoxcv’s musical journey reflects a rich tapestry of influences, culminating in his latest 8-track project, ‘NIGHTS IN GIDI.’
‘NIGHTS IN GIDI’ serves as a testament to $tevoxcv’s evolution as an artist, pushing boundaries and exploring uncharted creative territories. The project is a fusion of hip-hop, afrobeats, pop, and trap, showcasing $tevoxcv’s unparalleled versatility and innate talent.
Albums | 4batz – act ii: date @ 8 (juuku flip)
Posted by VMan on February 4, 2024
Renowned DJ and producer juuku has once again showcased his prowess with a captivating & emotional reinterpretation of 4batz’s hit single “act ii: date @ 8.” Following his revelation at Countdown Music Festival on New Year’s Eve, juuku continues to solidify his position as a force to be reckoned with in the electronic music scene. Tune in to the remix above now and keep an eye on juuku in 2024, with his face now revealed I see some more big moves up his sleeve for the rest of the year!
Albums | Aussie Producer re:abel drops new EP
Posted by VMan on February 1, 2024
re:abel is a project from Melbourne newcomer Ryan Gasparini who is crafting a unique blend of Future/UK Garage electronica, which has a sound that can be likened to a mix between Overmono, Burial, and Joy Orbison.Over the last few months Ryan has given us two mesmerizing aural treats with ‘Carbonceramics’ and ‘Concentrate’, while also making promise of a three-track ep headed our way soon. That ep is titled “Otherside”,and it is being released this week alongside its previously unheard title-track, on which he says…“The title track introduces a gentler, more nuanced side to my production. Distant vocals and soft percs build under synth hits and lush pads, building to an eventual introduction of sub-bass, thumping kick and fluttering arpeggio sequences, with the chopped, reverb soaked vocals driving the track throughout.” ~ re:abel
When he began working on this ep, Ryan set himself the goal of creating three songs that represents a certain element that drives him to make music. He wanted each of them to have a different overall vibe and mood while at the same time making us feeling a variety of different emotions.
“‘With this latest EP, I tried to create three tracks that each represent an element of what drives me to write music. Each of the three songshas a slightly different mood, but still remain cohesive with each other and firmly planted in the emotional electronic / UK-influenceddance field -music that leaves you feeling a melting pot of different feelings -both wistfully melancholic, yet full of inspiration and hope.” ~ re:abel
Albums | Ellis Evason Shares New Album SINS OF THE FATHER
Posted by VMan on February 1, 2024
Rising UK hip-hop artist Ellis Evason has unveiled his highly anticipated second studio album, SINS OF THE FATHER. The record, a masterful blend of old school soul influences, jazz nuances and inspired lyricism, showcases Ellis’ musical prowess.
Influenced by iconic figures such as MF DOOM, Kendrick Lamar and Earl Sweatshirt, Swindon-based Ellis Evason is making waves in the music scene with his intimate approach to hip-hop. Having recently graced the BFI Southbank stage and been longlisted as a Glastonbury Festival Emerging Talent, Ellis is quickly growing in stature in the UK music landscape.
SINS OF THE FATHER takes listeners on a transformative journey, divided into two distinct halves. The first part of the album captivates with explosive and fun beats, while the second half is angry, melancholy and reflective. Fans of Rizzle Kicks, easy life, Little Simz and Loyle Carner will undoubtedly connect with the album’s dynamic range and emotive storytelling.
This alternative hip-hop project explores the current state of the UK and sheds light on the struggle of overcoming abuse. From soul-infused British hip-hop soundscapes to experimental and industrial outbursts, SINS OF THE FATHER is a testament to Ellis Evason’s versatile artistry.
Reflecting on the creation of the album, Ellis shares, “This album is the most difficult thing I’ve tried to make. It is also the most ambitious project yet. It is deeply personal and deeply cathartic. My true hope is that it will resonate with people who have suffered at the hands of systemic oppression and household abuse. In many ways, this album is a statement about overcoming sexual abuse specifically, so I hope it can prompt some needed conversation.”
The album, supported by the MOBO Awards (Help Musicians Fund), is poised to make a significant impact. Ellis’ dedication to authenticity and addressing societal issues is evident throughout the project, making it a must-listen for those seeking powerful and thought-provoking music.