317 electro

2009-05-18T18:32:00.005-04:00

317 has moved!

aerial noise

... is a collaborative project with daily posts in electro and disco-house.

monthly recaps, listen before downloading, direct downloads.

much love,
the 317 crew!

2009-05-13T17:13:00.007-04:00

Its a Dance Your Pants Off:

DCUP, the C90's, Eli Escobar and Foamo

As I struggled to locate a worthy fifth track for this post, I realized that my gnarly week of downs and ups was providing insight; as mon pêre used to say, "don't look a gift horse in the mouth" (what the fuck? - think - don't bite the hand that feeds you). Which is to say, I got lucky and in relation to the elusive fifth track; why push it. To reflect this turn of events, I present to you my lucky number: four (tracks to be shared). Onwards...

First up is DCUP (mad rhymes) from Sydney and he lays down a fresh remix for fellow Aussies damn arms. Its no surprise Aus. has got more rad talent pumpin' out awesome dance beats. This track in particular has a very French feel to it, dare I say reminiscent of Daft Punk, but a little more loungey (type house). Some of the voice samples are a little much, but the overall production is dopeness - classy shit. Hope you dig.

Destination Pt. I - Damn Arms (DCUP Remix)

Next up, from London, England, the C90's, and wow you should hit their my space. I am really diggin' on a few of their remixes, namely the Bell Remix, tons of funk and very hype. But, this time around, I have remix to Headman's track Dirt, which according to LA Friendly, Tiga was loving on his Podcast. In any event, these boys from London continue with their funky legacy - this track is guaranteed to make you want to move while standing, dare I say dance even.

Dirt - Headman (the C90's Remix - Edit)

Moving right along, both these tracks coming up tied for my top picks over the past week and a bit. The first of the two is a remix by Eli Escobar from NYC, boooo Yankees, my bad, but Burnett is a sell out (I know, that's enough). But yeah, the original track is done by clubfeet from Victoria, Australia and its pretty catchy and interesting, but kinda mellow. The remix, however, is really discoed out, with some splatters of house and added synth that echoes so perfectly your brain will melt (trust me you can recover).

clubfeet - Teenage Suicide (Eli Escobar Remix)

The other gem of the week, as they both shall be called (sounds kinda epic/corny at the same time), is another remix by a fellow from High Wycombe in the UK, foamo is his name, and he has been garnering tons of attention over the last couple months and rightly so. This remix is by far my fav. of the ones by mr. foamo that I've heard thus far. Insane build up, and although La Roux is amazing enough on her own, the remix is insanity, I can't convey to you how gnarly this track is, not that the previous track isn't, 'cuz it is, but this one is on the same vein to be honest; a really classy yet dirty banger. Crunch this and you will dance your pants off... seariously.

La Roux - Bulletproof (Foamo Remix)

Peace and Love.

2009-05-11T15:32:00.018-04:00

Straight from the Strathcona Ruins
Little Boots (The Golden Filter), Heads We Dance, Van She, Kris Menace, Calvin Harris + more

Alright, I have a lot to show off so I'm just going to get down to business. There's a lot here so take your time with the write-ups or go straight to downloading. Everything below has been carefully combed through to bring you a variety of goodness.

The release of Little Boots's New In Town is on the horizon with her recently seeking publicity through a new music video and some great new mixes to the debut single. The Golden Filter took this track and stellarized it. I don't care if I have to make up words to get the point across. Bottom line is its good, and since I also don't need to introduce The Golden Filter, here's the magic:

Little Boots - New In Town (The Golden Filter Remix)

Heads We Dance used Little Boots in their latest production as well. It's bordering on the indie-pop side and splits from the electro scene. Not typically my cup of tea but its mad catchy and some of you may dig it.

Heads We Dance feat Little Boots - Work It Out

I stumbled across the production version of Van She's remix to Groove Armada's Drop The Tough thanks to ohh crappp. We posted this track earlier under the Bacardi B-Live program release. B-Live also released an unbelievable remix by The Twelves to Groove Armada if you missed it. Van She's version is still spectacular, and the new quality and slight variation from the version I previously knew, brought it back to a prominent position in my library.

Groove Armada - Drop The Tough (Van She Remix) not B-Live version

Idiosyncracies by Kris Menace releases on May 15. However, I've been lucky enough to stumble across a few excellent tracks that will make an appearance on the 37 track, 3 CD album. Kris Menace is a phenom and his sound and history should speak for itself. These tracks are pretty gold. Get em while you can tho, DMCA may be after us for this- but until then...

Kris Menace - Lightning

Kris Menace - Affinity

N.A.S.A.'s track Gifted was steadily going around the internet before Aston Shuffle touched it up. I didn't like it before, but I like it now. Regardless, the genre mix-up by tossing in vibes from a bunch of contributors is impressive in itself.

N.A.S.A. feat Kanye West, Santogold, Lykke Li - Gifted (The Aston Shuffle Remix)

Calvin Harris had another new remix drop recently that is great. I may be a little biased loving most of the new stuff Harris is making but check this and tell me I'm wrong. It's a little off from the stuff we recently recognize him by with but it still is a good mix all the way through. Always worth checking out.

Passion Pit - The Reeling (Calvin Harris Remix)

This next track borders between house and electro while having some haunting melodic vocals from Peaches. The mix is pretty sharp. Peaches is coming into some Canadian areas in the future if this hits the spot for you.

Peaches - I Feel Cream

Stumbling across the internet recovering from a cold last week led me to a couple house beats I enjoyed so here's a little taste of that action:

Rampage - Loving U Is Easy
Satoshi Tomiie - Glow (Spirit Catcher Remix)
Bad Boy Bill - Falling Anthem (Herves We Are A Disaster Remix)
Ed Solo - Age Of Dub (Sludge 001)

Just to end things off on a ligther and more positive note. VEGA made a lot of noise the past week with their track No Reasons. It's a great feel good track, perfect and fitting for the dance floor all summer long. They have a real disco vibe, some delightful groovin synth, and great hair. If you haven't caught it already, we're happy to introduce you to No Reasons.

VEGA - No Reasons

2009-05-06T18:47:00.001-04:00

Back To The Grind
Classixx, Golden Girls, & Nighty Max

Classixx delivers a new mix to Phoenix's Lisztomania that is excellent. The soft synth mix produced by the L.A. duo does well to compliment the original Phoenix vocals, even more so than the original, which is the first single off their forthcoming album Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix set to be released May 26.09 in North America. Phoenix hits Toronto in June if any are interested. As for Classixx, they can be pretty hit or miss with me. However, this track below is no miss.

Phoenix - Lisztomania (Classixx Version) DMCA rbr

Next up we have one of the more familiar and popular faces on 317 resurfacing yet again. Golden Girls has had yet another dynamite rendition of Do The Criminal come out the past week that absolutely kills it. I'm still undecided with what remix speaks to me the most but the Tape Deck Bros. are contending for the top spot. This remix is disco'd out and guaranteed to have you moving. It's money and a must have.

Golden Girls - Do The Criminal (Tape Deck Bros. Remix)

Nighty Max is 100% new to me. Asian Dan introduced me to this a couple days ago and I can't seem to get enough. The man hailing from Barcelona creates a relatively simple yet infectious track in Flannel Tent. Through Max's significant other Rebecca, it appears he has also became involved or has some ties to another project entitled YALL. This is just a little speculation but be prepared for some solid things to come from Spain.

Nighty Max - Flannel Tent

2009-05-05T16:21:00.017-04:00

Summer Lineup '09

With artists starting to release their summer show listings, we finalized our first edition of the 2009 Canadian summer concert listings (located bottom right sidebar). However, the season is still early. Expect a plethora of additions and some rare cancellations. So keep an eye out for any activity marked with an asterisk*

Please let us know if you have heard of anything new. We like to keep tabs on it all.

That being said, what's looking good right now?

Junior Boys (Babylon in Ottawa, May 10.09)

The new wave sound the Junior Boys create are hitting the nation's capital on Sunday. This will be the bands last stop in North America before heading out to Germany. It's a little short notice but knowing Babylon expect tickets at the door. Plan ahead and call if you're a skeptic (613-594-0003). While I have yet to see a Junior Boys show, I have been an avid fan for a couple years now and I would think they would know how to throw down. One could even say we've been talking about this since early February. Here's something to test the water with:

Junior Boys ft. Andi Tomi - In The Morning

Next up...

Crystal Castles (Sound Academy in Toronto, July 25.09)

Rumour has it Cut Copy could be joining the Castles mid-summer for another great dance party. Crystal Castles would be a great show in itself but the addition of CC would be extroadinary. This news is coming from a friend (and last.fm), so if we're wrong. we'll post Luke's phone number and address for you. If the Castles were not phenomenal I may have waited but since they are excellent, plan ahead and get them while you can.

Crystal Castles - Air War

Finally,

Osheaga Festival Musique et Arts
(August 1st weekend festival in Montreal)

Osheaga promises to be one hell of a party this year. Changing it up a bit the festival kicks off July 30th and 31st by hosting some incredible bands and DJ talent in the some of the city's hottest venues.

The following weekend is traditional goodness. Purchase a wristband and set up shop for the entire weekend or purchase tickets for an individual day. Either way you can't go wrong. Keep in mind additions could still happen.

Saturday, August 1st, 2009

Winter Gloves
Silver Starling
Elbow
Josh Ritter
Kitty Daisy & Lewis
Caracol
Lykke Li
Girl Talk
Jason Mraz
The Roots

Headliner: Coldplay

Sunday, August 2nd, 2009

The Honey Brothers
Le Volume Etait Au Maximum
Parlovr
Beast
The Ting Tings
Crystal Castles
The Decembrists
Arctic Monkets
Rufus Wainwright

Headliner: Beastie Boys

Hopefully some of these shows, or at least a few others get you excited for the sunny days and warm temperature to come. More updates to come in the future.

2009-05-03T00:08:00.015-04:00

Helping You Burn

That Midnight Oil

Yo, yo, yo Qwantums back on the mix after quite some time and he’s got a couple of bangers for you all. Although I have been out of the 317 loop for a bit I still got a couple gems that will vindicate my absence. School is finished for now, work and the summer semester are about to begin, which I have mixed feelings about but I am sure I will get over them. Anyways enough of the chitter chatter, it is time to pony up and get this show on the road.

First off, we got this nuck Feadz from France (hit up his MySpace to check out some sample tracks from his new album) doing some killer stuff. Maybe I am late to the game but I haven’t come across this guy before so check these bad boys out and show him some love. These tracks have a real midnight sound to them. I don’t really know any other way to describe it. They have sort of an end-of-the-night feel in which all you want is to go out strong and split some hardwood before it is time to drag your ass home. Anyways, I yammer, here are the tracks for you to enjoy (especially the Numanoid track).

Feadz – Edwrecker
Feadz – Numanoid

Man I wasn’t going to throw up this these remixes but I cannot resist now after listening to them again. These are two bangers that you guys must check out. Feadz rips on both these remixes; both Modeselektor and Boys Noize should be proud and frankly, amazed. Enjoy.

Modselektor – Suckerpin (Feadz Remix)
Boys Noize – Lava Lava (Feadz Aval Aval Remix)

I know a thing or two about history. The rise and fall of the Roman Empire, colonization, the French Revolution … but what I didn’t know is that Napoleon never sleeps. This group is interesting; they have got a real disco feel to them, which is nice and light. Check out their MySpace for some more tunes. I have throw up these two in hopes to spark some interest. Check these guys out, they’ve got a little bit of flow. Enjoy.

Napoleon Never Sleeps – 5-6-7-8
Napoleon Never Sleeps – D.I.S.C.O.

These are a couple that I thought I would throw in the mix, nothing interesting to note, or say. Just check it out. Hope you dig.

Dragonette - I Get Around (Midnight Juggernaut Remix)
K.I.M. - Wet N' Wild (Midnight Juggernaut Remix)

Now for a little something to help burn that midnight oil …

Frank Pleyer, well I haven’t been able to find much information on the man, but my friends this is one of the smoothest tracks I have ever heard. The beautiful sound of the Fender Rhodes electric piano, coupled with the thick repeating fretless bass line, and scantily clad drum line … dope. Wait for it, yea … there are horns. This track defines slower burner for me. Dynamically, this track doesn’t go too far off course, coming back to that original motif again and again, but wow ladies and gentlemen, you can’t ask for more. This is soul/jazz at some of its instrumental fineness without even diverging to far from the original lick. I am sure this track has been sampled before, I have haven’t heard the tune but please let me know if you have come across it. To be honest, it is 3 in the morning and I have had this track on repeat for about 20 minutes now, I can’t over it. When that interlude comes up wait for the drum fill, and then the horns will take over the bass line just for a second, ugh just kills me. Smooth, smooth, smooth, this is baby making music. Please enjoy this one; I don’t think I will come across one like this for some time.

Frank Pleyer - Sally

If you dig on the Pleyer track, peep this one too … not as smooth but has got a lovely bass line and some playful piano. At about 0:50, the guitar hoops in for its appearance and kills it. Why does no one make music like this anymore?

Gian Franco Pienzo – Grigio Peria

LETS GO CHI TOWN
Keep it Gully Kids,
Qwantum

2009-05-02T18:55:00.015-04:00

Beats That Move The Soul
Cinnamon Chasers, Discorockets, Ellie Goulding

I love this track. Cinnamon Chasers have been pumping out these goodies since late '08. Not surprising tho, because the Chasers are the solo project of Russ Davies, nephew and son of Ray and Dave Davies who founded the kinks :. musical talent is an inheritable trait among the Davies. The sound has impressed some so much it has been compared to Alan Braxe and the Junior Boys. Pretty impressive hype. Regardless, Davies sets himself apart with this epic synth melody entitled, Luv Deluxe. Keep an eye out for the full length forthcoming album on modus records.

Cinnamon Chasers - Luv Deluxe

Discorockets operate behind a man named Fred. He produces good music. This song Warmer is also good. I think you should have a listen. It's delightful.

Discorockets - Warmer

Kool and the Gang - Be My Lady (discorockets remix)

In other news, this is a pretty sick indie rendition of Sam Sparrow's Black & Gold. Ellie Goulding's take is far superior than any other female mix (and there are a few, including Adele) Plain and simple she kicks her ass.

Ellie Goulding - Black & Gold

2009-04-30T17:44:00.010-04:00

FAQ (Five Annual Quests):
Barletta, Kid Legit, Fred Falke,
Deadmau5 and Pony Pony Run Run

Hallo, hallo, what the fuck is going on dudes and dudettes, its super good to see everybody. This week, thanks to some creative criticism on the part of some of our readers (peace to ehmos), I have decided to try out a new format for my posts - less typing and a max. of 5 tracks per post.

Personally, this last week has been beyond gnarly and it only seems to be getting crazier. As such, the tracks for this week's post had to reflect the tip I've been on, 'cuz "straight up shit is real and any day could be your last in the jungle..."(Nas - "Represent"). I hate to be pessimistic and blunt, but I'm not trying to get down on you, I'm trying to light a fire under you; carpe fuckin' diem yo! And to prove my intentions are righteous I brought along some fresh new tracks to share...

First up is an awesome new DJ out of Montreal - represent!- by the name of Kid Legit. And, suffice to say, the track I have here, a remix by the boy/man himself, proves its not just a clever name. Mad shout outs to Gnarty Parly for introducing me to this banger, which is more of a fuckin' anthem, or at least it should be and its all madness from about 20 sec. in when the crazy synth loop drops. It is so hype, never mind the catastrophic build-up at the mid-way mark; straight dope, for serious...

Love thy Brother - Get Your Back Up (Kid Legit Remix)

Next up, another remix by a local favourite, (formally DJ) Barletta. Yeah, we love Barletta here at 317 and this track takes my love, for one half of Mansion, to the next level with what seems to be a move towards a more disco-ish type electro-house vibe. Just a little less aggressive then the usual Barletta banger, but nonetheless, the lack of grimmeness (which is a good thing) is made up for amplified disco synth loops and the result: this is one of the illest Barletta remixes that has ever graced my ears. I have mad faith in this one, so get your dl on and pump up the volume...

Meech - Bottome of the Fourth (Barletta Remix)

Number three, one of the craziest remixes I have come across in a while and its up there with the likes of Justice remixing Lenny Kravitz or U2, but way better. So yeah, this one is a single off of U2's newest album, which is coming out super soon, if it hasn't already. Not that I have anything against Bono or the rest of U2, but to be brutally honest, after the Joshua Tree, shit got kinda weak. Long story short, thank whomever deity you worship for Fred Falke and his blessed skills, 'cuz this track is money-tits (sorry for the deragatory statement). Definitely an awesome twist on a way too popped-out band...

U2 - Magnificent (Fred Falke Remix - Edit)

Moving right along, Calvin Harris is the man and the track which is featured here is one of his latest singles which has been widely circulating the net, and its madness. A little longer at just over 8 minutes and some may even say its a little repetitive, but Deadmau5 kills it. Think hype house-disco, with some clean, classy and smooth loops, echoed with amazing breaks that keep you anticipating more magic. If you heard the original, which if you haven't you really should think about doing, you may agree that this remix is a true change of pace, but one that is very fucking fresh and compliments Harris' own dope style. Dare I say, epic...

Calvin Harris - Can You See the Light (Deadmau5 Remix)

Lately I seem to have been on a little bit of a French tip and lets be honest, les Francais represent hard, seemingly in any genre of music, but oh how they love to dance and this last track is no exception; straight heat/hot to def. Pony Pony Run Run, the people responsible for this gourmet audio treat, seem to be ranging on the more disco and indie side of the electronic spectrum, with a heavy injection of funk - a.k.a. - its catchy as fuck. This track has been putting a smile on my face every time I've listened to it; its tons of fun, enjoy, oh and these guys have their new album out on June 15th, so keep your ears to the streets.

Pony Pony Run Run - Hey You

Can't say goodbye without a big fat word up, with tons of representin' thrown in as well. Post up in zee comments section, we love to hear from you and let me know what you think of the new format idea. Word is bond and keep your game(s) tight... Peace and Love.

2009-04-29T00:39:00.021-04:00

What Happened?
Don Diablo escorts 'Grandma' back home

Last week was pretty trying for 317. Speaking for myself, I had major computer problems that forced some of my prized computer possessions to be deleted. One of my most prized losses was my beloved itunes play count. Who knew a seemingly pointless stat would create such an emotional loss and have a small impact on my life. Not only was it an interesting to view who was played the most in the recent and past few weeks on my computer, but it also proved to be a valuable sorting tool once i had committed a few hundred hours of streaming music through itunes over the past two years. Luckily I was able to save the music I cared about and the documents that were important. But still... may my old itunes play count r.i.p.

Another problem we had came to us through mediafire- our database for hosting music. I apologize to anyone who felt the effects we did, obviously it still has some bugs that need to be sorted out. However, it's still not worth switching providers. Mediafire offers an extensive free program with an interface that is easy for users. Files shared with through other providers like zshare sometimes disable links over time to continue fast service. This makes it very hard to develop any form of archive of MP3s for people to download. Therefore, we will continue to keep using mediafire until a better option surfaces. Any link that is experiencing problems through mediashare we will try to correct using another free source such as zshare.

Hopefully all the problems are behind us so we can move on.

That being said, I'm still behind in catching up among the activity sweeping the blogosphere. So this next track comes straight from the personal stash I was able to save from the shitstorm that swept my computer. Don Diablo has left mixed impressions on me in the past. Here he hits me full on. I'm in love with the acoustic guitar and the arrangement. Damn this sounds good..

One EskimO - Givin' Up (Don Diablo Remix)

* * *

Over the last week, our technical difficulties with blogger, mediafire, and the backup on my computer ended with the loss of a post entitled, Keep On Walking Grandma (Apr 24.09). Since the blog backup crashed so did the ability to retrieve the post. No big deal, but these tracks still deserve recognition. Unfortunately I had to kill the write-ups but here goes, second-time around, a random selection of great stuff all worthy of checking out.

Golden Girls - Do The Criminal (CCENTURIESS Remix)

Le Matos ft. Coeur De Pirate - How Do I Let You Know

Pierce - Goodfriends

Annie - Chewing Gum (Mylo Remix)

Master H. ft. Silicon - Thirteen (Mylo Remix)

Calvin Harris - Merrymaking (Deadmau5 Remix) DMCA rbr

Calvin Harris - Acceptable In The 80s DMCA rbr

2009-04-22T00:08:00.013-04:00

You Gotta Know
Fear of Tigers, Sferro and new Airys

Pink is Punk released one sick remix to Airys Vedo In Te this past week. Italo funky electro pop is one way to describe the rooted Milano artists. Both projects have teamed up to create this new track. It's one of a kind and absolutely covered in good.

Airys - Vedo In Te (Pink is Punk Remix)

Well, I'm definitely not the first to be introduced to Fear of Tigers. These guys are great. They sound as if they just emerged from the old retro 80's scene where no one knew what to do with the lights and the new sounds, and simply perfected it. It's a bold statement but with one listen I was tossed back into my childhood reliving the precursor to the dance parties created by the sweet annual albums of Dance Mix 93, 94, and 95. I hope they bring you the same nostalgic feeling that hit me when I was first heard these two tracks.

Fear of Tigers - The Adventure of Pippi Longstump (Original)

Fear of Tigers - The Rich Cry Too (Original)

Fear of Tigers tossed up a lot of new great synth which naturally led me to Sferro. The one man monster in Eric Sferro is talented as anyone in making infectious vibes that make you move. The instrumentals are ridiculously delightful. There's lots of goodies out there so if you like what you hear hit his myspace or further search on hype.

Funked Up - No Ditchin (Sferro Remix)

Sferro - Sexy Talents

2009-04-18T03:28:00.008-04:00

Mmm, mmm, mmm...
too much tasty stuff to mention (in the title)

First things first, I have been MIA for tons and this my first post for the month, damn son! As such, I have been building on this post for way too long; each day I find some new dope tracks too add to the list, but its already huge! So here we go, and I apologize in advance. Also, there are minimal pics because I went crazy with song postage... word is bond!

Number one - neighbours to the south, Blacklight Flashlight (If your down with hockey, go Blue Jackets!). In any event, these dudes keep it mad real and although I only have one track to share with you, I know we have had a post of a remix these guys did a little while back, which you can get to here. So yeah this track is really funky with a great disco keyboard-synth vibe, add in some nice drums and you have a pretty radical tune. I am on the hunt for more Blacklight Flashlight, if their other stuff is like this, I can't wait. The goods:

Blacklight Flashlight - Dreaming In

Numéro deux, and I apologize for the cliche remark, but this is a straight up French connection; 317 favourtite Breakbot and fellow Frenchmen Yuksek together, drop the heat on this one. This track has been circling the blog world for a little while now, so out with the goods:

Yuksek - Extraball (Breakbot Remix)

Next up, some super funky Brazilians known as the Twelves (as if you hadn't heard!) combine with local heroes Metric. From Rio to Toronto, actually that is unfair, I know Metric is part Canadian, but I am unsure about which part, my bad. In any case this remix is money, these dudes know what they are doing and you should not be shy; partake in what the Twelves are ready to give you. Mad love:

Metric - Help I'm Alive (the Twelves Remix)

Moving right along, over the last month I have come across a couple tracks by the Torontonian known for funky electro - Hemingway. Apparently, not much is known of this elusive Canadian yet, although, word on the street is he is a mean DJ. Once again, my bad on the lack of info, but take a gamble if you're new to the name, this song was also remixed a while back by the Brazilians mentioned above. So here is a little Canadian-funk twist:

the Virgins - Rich Girls (Hemingway Remix)

Featured alongside Mr. Hemingway, fellow Torontonians (and Montrealers) - DVAS. These dudes make sick ass disco house. I'm going to be brutally honest, these tracks are both awesome, but the first one is a gem, think more disco-ish Daft Punk (really?! Yes.). Amazing build-ups and great tripped out dance potential. Oh and SymbolOne, these guys are crazy good as well, and I've got a dope remix of theirs to share. And if their story is true as per their my space page - craziness! Hey! Have Fun:

DVAS - Forever

DVAS - Ambient Room (SymbolOne Remix)

Okay, two left. A remix to this track has been featured here before on an older post which you can get to here (Broke One kills it). This time around, however, Youth has blessed the Elke track with his London vibes; his synth break down is straight up and down fucking fantastic, recognize! (I know that's aggressive, but I promise its awesome). Straight from the shores of the UK:

Elke - Blue Dream Lover (Youth Remix)

Mates from Leeds represent hard on this track. This one was also featured a little while ago, get it here (Paul Epwoth + Friendly Fires = Magical/Epic). But to the same token, Grum from Leeds lays down a super gnarly remix. Below is a poster that gives a pretty good description - "Tasty Shit!" I hate to judge, but I totally saved the best for last, this track makes me way too happy, so please enjoy:

Friendly Fires - Skeleton Boy (Grum Remix)

Wow, that was a little much, again, my bad, I got carried away and I knew it from the get-go. Post up in the comments section if you're diggin' on the tracks, we love to hear from you!

P.s. I lied, one last track I promise. No info on this gem, but Kennedy kills it here; this is a great summer funk-disco jam that would sound killer out the window of your Ford Tempo, or at your house party. And if this track doesn't make you smile, I just shed a tear for you. The nice weather bonus:

Kennedy - Karate

As always, represent the my space pages of the artists you dig and of course, tons of peace and love.

2009-04-16T11:50:00.011-04:00

Special Delivery
Linus Loves and Popular Computer

We had a brand new remix from Linus Loves drop to us a few days ago. It's delicious. The talented artist has helped bring 18 year-old Pixie Lott to the spotlight. Pixie dips in a sound that's very mainstream. Right now she's offering samples off an upcoming album to be released in the new year. You can find these clips on her myspace. The Linus Loves remix offers up a technoelectro rendition that's out of this world. The sound is clean, crisp and highly recommended.

Pixie Lott - Mama Do (Linus Loves Remix)

Another great song that recently resurfaced is Popular Computer's Darling off his first full release Senso Data on Rise Recordings. This needs to be in everyones playlist. PC bring us some amazing haunting electro that is simply terrific. Between the vocals and the beat, Darling creates an entrancing state you won't want to leave.

Popular Computer - Darling

2009-04-14T13:48:00.005-04:00

Half in Love
Meanderthals, Gentleman Thieves, Desire, Jacques Renault

Meanderthals switches things up a little bit on 317 today. Since we're nearing the end of the year for the student populous, exams are getting tight, papers even more strenuous, I decided to indulge with something a little more melodic and rhythmic with the intent to keep the sound real light. Meanderthals Desire Lines fits this agenda. It combines dimensions from acoustic soft rock, underlying funk, with the great taste of some retro club jazz. Lately it has been helping me get through some long hours but it's an instrumental worth playing any hour of the day. Play it all the way through before deciding how you feel. The jazz fade-out is sexy. Oh and they are brand-spanking new making it even more worth the listen.

Meanderthals - Desire Lines

Our friends from NY in Gentleman Thieves hit us up with a new track that everyone should be hitting hard. Their sound is developing strong and varies greatly from the previous tracks we enclosed earlier in the year. Despite this being a new track it is very nostalgic to me. It instantly creates a mellow dance mood. Hopefully you enjoy this exclusive track as much as we do.

Gentleman Thieves - Dream Passport

Discodust along with Disco Workout recently helped introduce us to Johnny Jewel, the self-made genius behind such side projects as chromatics, glass candy, and italians do it better. While all projects are unique and offer something new... Jewel has finally found an extraordinary vocalist in Megan Louise in the new project Desire. The new prominent single out of a set of five leaked by the new duo entitled, If I Can't Hold You is a delightful mix of haunting disco. Watch out for Desire in the future as Jewel is sure to spin up some talent with Megan alongside.

Desire - If I Can't Hold You

The Hundred In The Hands track Dressed in Dresden has been tossed around the blogosphere countless amount of times over the past few months. Hype is a great way of proving this through a simple search. However, the Jacques Renault remix tosses up a funky fresh remix that is worth treating your ears too. He funks out the orig a bit more and makes it a little bit more danceable to appease us all.

The Hundred In The Hands - Undressed in Dresden (Jacques Renault remix)

2009-04-14T13:44:00.005-04:00

The Masters
and no we're not talking Golf

(repost from April 12.09)

Doves are a project I found out about accidentally the other week. The latest album, entitled Kingdom of Rust, recently came out April 6th. I haven't had the pleasure of checking it out yet, but that's on today's to-do list along with the hours of other work in the queue. I seriously recommend checking out the Still Going remix to the latest Doves single. It is chilling and a perfect cure for a hangover.

Doves - Kingdom of Rust (Still Going Remix) DMCA rbr

By now we all know that the Crookers present something a little bit harder...

About a month ago (March 11, 2009) I posted a track by DJ Mujava that had well some real shitty sound quality- sorry about that. Anyways, last week I stumbled across a remix done by the none other, extremely talented Crookers remix to the track in question. If you haven't heard the orig I'm talking about, check the previous post here (keep in mind the quality). However, this new track has no sound issues (other then it sounding pretty damn good). The Crookers add in a little of their own flare but for the most part leave the backbone of the track untouched. I think this speaks to how solid Mujava's Township Funk really kills it. Oh and if you know any Armand Van Helden... see if you can spot the sample up front.

Mujava - Township Funk (Phra Crookers Supertrance Refix)

While we're talking about the Crookers I had to mention an old fav that redthreat resurfaced the other day. This track debuted in March 2008- almost 2 years into the Crooks career. Trash is a hard techno delight that features what I'm going to call "the techno strum," which is ill. Enjoy the throwback.

The Whip - Trash (Crookers Remix)

2009-04-09T15:39:00.013-04:00

New Sounds All Around
Pegase and Pacific!

teenage colour parties - "la boom"

If you have not had the chance to sample Pegase's new sound that is rapidly moving around the blogosphere then I have a treat for you. Raphaël, better known as the lead singer from Minitel Rose, has dumped out two brand new tracks this past week that are exceptional. He appears to have moved away from the traditional soft synthed Pegase we all knew him by to a dynamic melodic-pop dance scene- where he is equally as good. These two tracks are great. Grab em while you can.

Pegase - Wherever You Are (Demo)

Pegase - I Tried To Be You (Demo)

Pacific!, the guys from Sweden, churned out one hot remix to Poney Poney over the last couple of days. Pacific really did a number here. It will instantly catch you. If you feel like getting addicted to something click below.

Poney Poney - When Do You Wanna Stop Working? (Pacific! Remix)

As for Poney Poney, they recently released a number of new tracks to go with this one. Check em out if you want something a a lil more raw than this track. By The Numbers is the next best track on there (my biased opinion).

2009-04-07T01:14:00.014-04:00

Holla to the Scholarly.

First off today we have a serious track from once posted Erobique. Posted on March 27^th Ripped on Reality, Erobique had made his first appearance on 317. Anyways I have come across another track from the depths of Hamburg that I would like to share with the winter north. This tune had got a great club vibe, thick bass, simple percussion, catchy guitar licks, and little vocals. Erobique’s Grevenlove gets me going. Uplifting, groovy, smooth, a great morning tune on your walk to work or class, please enjoy this sure to be club fav as much as I do.

Erobique - Grevenlove

I got a couple of heavy hitters to throw down as well this evening, aggressive and trendy these tracks are bangers. First up we got a fresh group by the name of Blacklight Flashlight. These remix of Midfield Generals’ track Disco Sirens is a banger. Not too much to say about this bad boy, but check out some of the other tunes, these brothers from Columbus know how to groove.

Midfield General - Disco Sirens (Blacklight Flashlight Remix)

Next we have an oddly name group by the name of Tits & Clits. Their track Aggressive is exactly that. From their MySpace page these guys seem kind of wild. I haven’t really checked out much of their other stuff which is posted but I will in the near future. Enjoy this one it really gets me going. I don't know to much about the Budapest scene, but it seems decent if junk like this is come out there.

Tits & Clits - Aggressive

Got a sweet Lorenz Rhodes club mix ... nothing to say about this guy ... never heard of him before but this mix gets me going. some smooth shit right here. Just a bonus.

Lorenz Rhodes - Shake It (Cut Up Club Dub)

2009-04-06T12:11:00.007-04:00

Making Love on a Monday
Fromage Disco

Here's a little daily dose in something soulful to start your week off right. Disco Workout first introduced Fromage to me a few days ago. I'm very appreciative. The group has posted several free songs online for greedy downloaders like myself to get a hold of. Repeight and Vicious are both tracks worth seeking out. This remix of Chaz Jenkel's You're My Occupation is electro-sensual. It's a mix of heavy bass combined with some fluid vibrant beats and some hard hitting throwback vocals. If you're a little confused, don't worry, it will all come together. It's a real treat for Monday mor.... afternoon. Enjoy!

Chaz Jenkel - You're My Occupation (Fromage Remix)

2009-04-03T18:12:00.001-04:00

So Fresh
Lifelike, The Twelves, Free Disco, Compuphonic

In mid-March Lifelike dropped another funky fresh remix, this time, to My Secret Lover by The Private. This track is getting a lot of attention internationally, therefore it deserves to have a pit stop in Canada. Laurent Ash, aka Lifelike, has dropped some hella good stuff already on 317. It's interesting to note the surname change as we all knew him by Heinrich back in the day. Check the post for the old intel as well as another dope track in So Electric.

Anyway, most people are either going to love or hate the Lifelike rendition of My Secret Lover. It's danceable, funked out, and mad catchy. On the other hand, the vocals can be hit or miss with most. I'm still in the air. I'm not sure if I would dig it without Lifelike making it real, real nice.

The Private - My Secret Lover (Lifelike Remix) DMCA rbr

This next track was introduced to us by a good friend and family member of 317. Everyone knows the track Take On Me by A-Ha; if not by name then definitely by first listen. Anyway, it was decent way back when it emerged, but The Twelves have made it absolutely fantastic as some might say. Anyway I'll let the track speak for itself. On a side note, I was informed the other day by erger that The Twelves are from Brazil- who would have thought?

A-ha - Take On Me (The Twelves Remix)

Left Field Boogie by Free Disco is a ridiculously good funk track. Horns, a solid bassline, and the odd laser- yes lasers, don't judge it (prominent around 2:20 in the song). Whatever the instrument, Free Disco absolutely destroys it here. Left Field Boogie is an uptempo swing track that makes you want to move. It's stellar, I seriously recommend. Oh and P.S. lasers are sweet. Where would we be without laser tag, laser pointers, and the gladiator "Laser" (from the 80's show, not that Hogan crappp).

Free Disco - Left Field Boogie

Javelo is one of the alias's the guys from Aeroplane used before they started. Thanks to their foundation Compuphonic was able to make something that gave me my daily dose of sweet synth vibes. He delivers on the sick remix to the Javelo track entitled Spleen. For those looking for the intel, in 2002 Compuphonic started to learn the basis of electro and music production. He signed to make his first production off the label Dirty Dancing records where he released five EP's. His fame in Belgium gave him the opportunity to become a resident Dj. Since, Compuphonic has progressed through signing remixes for Kolombo, Tiga, the Presets, and Modular. Word on the street is he already has some new stellar tracks queued up for '09, we'll keep you posted.

Javelo - Spleen (Compuphonic Remix)

2009-04-01T00:11:00.006-04:00

Get Excited
The Future is Sweet

Wow, the people behind Valerie continue to impress me. They continuously unite great artists in phenomenal shows time and time again. Valerie Party, Paris, April 10th is no exception. It marks Electric Youth's first European tour. Included alongside is College, Anoraak, and Maethelvin. April 10th in Paris is shaping up to be one hell of a night. To celebrate my love for Valerie and the upcoming show we kept it real simple.

College are sweet. I'm digging on a remix by 1928 that hit the Valerie Collective a couple days ago. This track is captivating. The vocals compliment the track so well and wow, don't even get me started on the rhythm. Simply awesome. It's pretty much continuously playing right now. Valerie's promotional description is pretty spot on so I thought I would include it for the curious mind.

We have a highly-rated sound this week, the Australian 1928, who did me the wonderful favour of remixing ‘Can you kiss me first’. This remix stays faithful to the original in mood and character, but the addition of a feminine vocal allows us glance upon it in a completely different way. - Valerie

College - Can You Kiss Me First (1928 Remix)

Also on the card April 10th is Maethelvin, which coincidentally is incredible. I stumbled across a demo track by him about a week ago that really impressed me. Caught up with work I neglected to toss up a post. No longer procrastinating I now have an excuse to share this track. Maethelvin = great.

Maethelvin - Delight (Demo)

To continue in the spirit of the April 10th show in Paris, (with Electric Youth, College, Anoraak, and Maethelvin...yadda yadda, going to be a great show) included below is the video link to College's track "She Never Came Back," which feature Hamilton's Electric Youth. The screenplay for the video is by Frantz Lasorne and Nicolas Guyon. It's a great track and the video is fresh out the oven. Get it while it's hot.

College - She Never Came Back (Vimeo Video Link)

2009-03-31T02:31:00.006-04:00

PLANTS AND ANIMALS AT OTTAWAU

I just wanted to through up a quick post to inform some Ottawa residents of a great show. 2 April, this Thursday Plants and Animals will be playing at OttawaU. Sorry about the short notice, I just found out myself. I have not heard of the other act Angela Desveaux. But I am checking her out as we speak.

I am shocked but exicted to hear about this ... cant wait, hope to see you there. OttawaU is doing something I actually will enjoy.

Cover is $5 and the venue is Cafe Alt.

Plants and Animals - Faerie Dance

Plants and Animals - Feedback in the Field

Plants and Animals - Bye Bye Bye

Plants and Animals - Good Friend

2009-03-30T03:19:00.014-04:00

Freak Folk and Mustache Jokes.

Well it has been a little while since my last post, a combination of the fine weather and school work have strayed me away for my information super highway commitments. Anyways I am back and have a few tracks as well as some interesting news tidbits to post in reaction.

I know this isn’t really 317 bag when it comes to posts, but I thought this was interesting and may effect of the readers so I went and posted. This article is from Tiny Mix Tapes, a great site for music news of the sort. Check them out, give this a read especially if you buy music online.

Chinese Hack into iTunes’ Code And Sells Gift Cards for Low, Low Prices

China renewed its charm offensive on TMT readers this week with an audacious hacking of iTunes’ gift certificate algorithm. These upstanding Chinese citizens are now selling $200 gift cards on Taobao, a Chinese equivalent to eBay, for as little as $2.60. Using the site’s instant messaging platform, the buyer receives a gift voucher code from the seller that can then be used to redeem the card from a user’s iTunes account. The cards are also available in the U.S for around $43 on eBay.

The hacker’s craft is so brilliant that not only have they given Apple a fine kick in the teeth, but they’ve also posed a frustrating conundrum for those good-for-nothing capitalists. If Apple decides to change the gift voucher code generation algorithm, all of the cards available right now would become obsolete. Consequently, the only ones making money at this moment in time are the code sellers and the artists who still get paid when their music is downloaded from iTunes.

It’s been only a week since the Chinese government’s commendable decision to ban Oasis from playing dates in Shanghai and Beijing in April (TMT News) and now this ingenious nation delivers another slap in the face to shameless profiteers. Who ever said quasi-Communism doesn’t work?

Comrade Obama, start taking notes.

Posted by Brom on 03-13-2009

I want to show BEAT ELECTRIC some love. The continuity they have in posting quality tracks is unreal, keep up the good work. Copped this tune from them, and haven’t stopped listening to it at all. Just a slow burner with some real soul in it, Gwen McCrae really gets me going, please enjoy this badass tune. I had just finished watching Jackie Brown when I came across the bad boy and it would have fit perfectly into the sound track, but I digress.

Gwen McCrae – 90% of Me is You.

Moving on, I have been a huge fan of Devendra Banhart and the entirety of the “Freak Folk” revolution for quite some time now. I saw Devendra in Sept 2007 in Montreal and the show was unreal, he ran way over his time limit, played great alternative renditions of his album tracks, and simply, he was a showman.

Kevin Barker, member for Vetiver has made a documentary of the 2004 magic tour and it will be released soon. Breaking is camera out on a tour which included the likes of Banhart and Newsome, this documentary looks dope! I have included the teaser just to give you guys a little taster. I am quite excited to see this bad boy in full. The full length version will be presented at the Sarasota Film Festival on April 2 and 3.

I am not going to embed the video, just for the sake of speed and continuity. Nonetheless, enjoy.

The Family Jams Trailer – Kevin Barker

One my favorite things as a music listener are to stumble upon a song I can catch the sample in. This track has been used in one of my favorite hip-hop songs and is a banger in its self. Got a real slow soul vibe to it that might catch you off guard. I want to draw attention to the kicking bass line here. It has a pop jazz feel, are over the scales, with much repetition but also digression. I do not know too much about Galt Macdermont but I think I will be looking into him a little further and with any luck some of his other tracks are of the same caliber. Anyways without more yadda yaddas here is the track, enjoy.

Galt Macdermot – Ripped Open by Metal Explosion

Cheers,

Qwantum

2009-03-27T12:06:00.013-04:00

Ripped on Reality:
Numéro#, Le Matos, Coeur de Pirate, Erobique, Electric Youth, Surkin and Chromeo
(consider it festively plump)

An interesting couple of days for new musical discoveries... To be brutally honest though, my love for all things disco/electro took a huge hit the other weekend (sorry for the dramatics); some good friends and I rallied together in Toronto to see Cut Copy @ Circa, on Friday, March 20th...

pictures donated by christina seguin

Two things for starters, firstly, we did not help ourselves by missing both the opening acts, Matt & Kim and Knightlife, entirely. Secondly, let it be known that I and the whole of the 317 crew have nothing but mad love for Cut Copy. That being said, Circa fucked up and totally screwed so many paying customers by totalling jamming the place, to what seemed way over capacity (or their legal capacity is played up like whoa!) and may have even turned fans into displeased listeneners that will tell their friends how whack Cut Copy was live. The thought alone makes me shudder.

I think its worth saying that Circa did not do Cut Copy justice. I have seen Cut Copy twice before in Toronto within a year and they were breathtaking, I almost cried.... Nah, but they were fucking amazing, and Circa has now tainted Cut Copy's image (in some peoples minds) in Toronto, a city that has nothing but love to give to a band that loves it right back, (I hope I am not speaking out of context on behalf of Cut Copy here).

Enough is enough, and on to not only a different topic, but a whole new language. Yes, it is true... c'est vrai! I love the French, and Numero# are certainly no exception. They hail from Montreal, Québec, and their track "Hit Pop" was featured on Kitsuné 4, to much dance floor acclaim.

Also, I recently came across a track to be released on their new album, Sport de combat (due out April 14th). The track off of Kitsuné 4 is, as redundant as it is to say, a great upbeat pop track that does not disappoint. The second is a little more aggressive, but disco permeates throughout in no time; fresh electric synthesizers, harmonic loops and crisp drums... dopeness:

Numero# - Hit Pop

Numero# - Tonton Klaxonne

And with it, a remix of an older song off their first album. The remix is done by fellow Québecers, Le Matos, who, to be honest with you, I don't know much about, yet. What I do know: they can throw down freshness on the dancefloor, remix specific - here is an example of their good vibes:

Numero# - Star Model (Le Matos Pointdexter Remix)

Le Matos lays it down again, this time with their Mtl friends, that dwell more in the folk scene I would say, Coeur de Pirate. I am a late bloomer on this track as it has been floating around the net for some time now. It displays deeper and more dark sounding synths that drive the beat of the track. Meanwhile, the vocals are almost eerily distant and innocent, haunting even, but, so soft and enchanting at the same time. This track is a gem to me, mad love.

Coeur de Pirate - Comme des Enfants (Le Matos Andy Carmichael Remix)

Something a little more different this time, a hop from Canada over to Germany, Hamburg more specifically, the home of Erobique. This is the first track I have heard by these peeps, and it is pretty radical. I want to say, think a minimal type of Siriusmo, with less disco and more funk. If that means nothing to you (my bad), I will have to do a post on Sirismo soon time, until then...

Eurobique - Endorphinmachine

Next up, don't worry almost done, our very good friends, Electric Youth, from West Hamilton and Toronto. They have just released their tour dates on their myspace, think Vienna and Paris for starters, say what!? These guys are unreal and the production is truly taking a step in a new direction. With the release of their new album comming up soon (so stoked), I think this may be a good hint as to what we can expect...oh my.

Electric Youth - Lying Still

Lastly (I know right?) is two well known names together, collaborating for your pleasure. From France, Surkin, the youthful house/electro prodigy, with Chromeo, one of the freshest sounds North of the US border. If you happen to be a fan of one of the two and aren't familiar with the other, I urge you, this combo is undeniable. Don't be shy here; play it loud and have fun.

Surkin ft Chromeo - Chrome Knight (Original Mix)

My bad for the banter as usual. Nab the tracks while they're still available and post up in the comments section, you know we love you! And thanks to Christina for the show pics!
salut.

2009-03-26T12:56:00.009-04:00

Seekae
Mellow me out from Sydney, Australia

Fall into a mellow abyss with Seekae. I recently stumbled across the trio who hail from Sydney, Australia. They recently took a bit of a break to get their travel on in Europe. But no worries, they should be back by July. In the meantime they have planned some more sporadic releases to hit their myspace. If you like relaxin and chillin to these soft beats keep an eye out for them in the future.

Seekae - Wool (ft. Ivan Vizintin)

Seekae - Void

2009-03-25T13:50:00.007-04:00

Hervé

Wow, a week sure goes by quick when you're having a hella good time. 317 recently escaped to Toronto to see the stellar Cut Copy at circa and wow, more on that later. All in all, it's nice to be back in Ottawa but the inbox is full and there's lots to hear.

Hervé can be found dwelling in London, UK while occasionally hitting up the surrounding area. You may recognize his work under the side projects: The Count and The Count & Sinden, having produced and released for the labels Cheap Thrills, Domino, Loungin', and Dubsided. Both projects are unique and worthwhile checking out if you have that kind of time. If you don't check out these bangers below.

Herve - The Science of Fear (Herve Dub Mix)

Hervé drops some splashy, aggressive electro in The Science of Fear. I love the transitions from the flashy uptempo synth to the mellowness throughout the track. Definitely talented on the board, Hervé is about to show you what he's all about.

Fake Blood - Mars (Herve Re-Fix)

Hervé tosses up a delightful little rendition to Fake Blood's Mars that caught my attention (and judging by the activity across Hype I'm not alone). While this is not my favourite mix, and to be honest I prefer the original, it highlights a lot of the sampling capabilities Hervé possesses.

Herve - Cheap Thrills

My grade 4 history teacher would always recite, "you can't know where you're going, unless you know where you've been." Sometimes the same goes for music. Here is a little bit of a throwback pieced out of Michael Jackson's Thriller by Hervé. It can be a tad loopy in some areas but has some incredibly funked out rifts that can force the stiffest people to start bending those knees.

If you're in the mood for more, Hervé recently dropped a remix to Calvin Harris' I'm Not Alone.

2009-03-19T21:45:00.010-04:00

I DIG YOU
i really, really do.

Demis Roussos was born in Egypt to ethnic Greek parents who later lost everything in the 1956 Suez Cris. After settling in Greece, Roussos started joining bands at the age of 17. In 1968 Demis joined Aphrodite's Child and gained success internationally with the progressive rock album 666. When Aphrodite's Child disbanded, Demis continued with a solo career. Recording sporadically throughout the 1970s he created a disco record in 1977 entitled Magic and a self-titled LP the following year. This track comes from the French 7" of Mourir Aupres De Mon Amour where it is a B side. Much love goes out to beatelectric for keeping it trendy. Demis throws it down hard here, what a track.

Demis Roussos - I Dig You

2009-03-18T16:27:00.019-04:00

Hip to the Vibe:
More Parallels, with TMDP and Fred Falke

Well, well, well, I feel as though its time for a great ol' big fuckin' post, but first, a couple interesting items in the 317 news for ya...

First off, belated happy St. Patrick's Day to all you hungover students and people who had to work today, we here at 317 totally respect the commitment to one of the most festive events of the year.

As you guys may know we did a post a little while ago on an upcoming show featuring Parallels, Golden Girls and Dj Raiz, hosted by Gnarty Parly @ the Casbah Lounge, in Hamilton, Ontario, on St. Patrick's Day-night (which you can find right here). Well not only was it Gnarty Parly's first ever event and the Parallels EP release party, it was also a bangin' St. Patty's day dance party blow-out. In short, last night went off in dope and fresh style, about 90 people showed up and danced the beautiful and drunken evening away.

A little extra juicy rumour, well its more funny than anything; since Parallels have just started performing live (the St. Patty's day show in Hamilton was only their fourth show as Parallels) and word on the street is, after Parallels was finished their set, (they were the last to perform) a random dude in the crowd started clapping and chanting, 'encore', 'encore', etc., and soon enough the whole place was up in arms cheering for more music from Parallels.

Perhaps at first glance none of this may seem out of place to you, but it was literally Parallels first ever encore they have ever received while playing shows and it was Hamiltron, of all places, to give it to 'em! The super funny part is there was no encore in the end, because as Parallels is still so new, by the end of their performance, they had literally played all the songs they actually have, how gnarly is that?! So no encore in the end, which is too bad, but the idea was there and furthermore, their is no question in my mind; Hamilton showed some serious love to Parallels and held it down. Call me corny, but I am so proud to be from Hamiltron, right now, hahaha... unreal.

So in honour of Hamilton coming out in great attendance and with dance shoes ready (big thanks goes out to Disco Dust for posting these gems!), I have some dope new, and one old, Parallels tracks to share with you. Also, Parallels just set up their new website: Parallels.fm, which is really hip and it serves as a more direct and personalized medium for you to check one of Toronto's most superb electro/dance acts. So scoop these tracks while their hot and enjoy some 80's influenced electronic bliss:

Parallels - Ghost Machines

Parallels - Vienna
Parallels - Resevoir

Moving right along, so yeah I've been sitting thinking about all the dope tracks that I thought I wanted to post up today and I got caught up checking out new shit in the meantime, fuckin' hell. Anyways, after some mad searching throughout the blog world, I have some truly delectable dance tunes to dish out, I am actually excited!? (weird).

Off the top, I have an overdew post for ya on Toronto's own Jeffrey Addison and Gavin Rough, otherwise known as, TMDP. These guys are so hot right now its not even funny. They just dropped their alblum last week, the self titled "TMDP", and apparently shit hit the fan at the album release party, and while that may sound bad, it truly was a great party; TMDP showered their synthesized love vibes all over the crowd that night and the result: one hype ass party yo! The two original tracks I included below are pretty radical, "sex drive" is a quirky, slightly slower-moving, based out electro jam, pretty funky too though and "TMDP" has a really gradual, synthed out, build up, but its a really lovely track that entrances you with its melodic electronic rhythm, don't worry though it turns into a little disco funk jam in the end, and classy as shit too.

TMDP - TMDP
TMDP - Sex Drive

After that, TMDP remixed a track, "Bass Live" by fellow Torontonian and 317 personal favourite, Dj Barletta. This track should come with a warning: "caution this track insights violent and aggressive drinking mixed with people claiming they are having, "Too much fucking fun!"".

Dj Barletta - Bass Live (TMDP remix)

And lastly from the TMDP boys is another dope remix, this time by another local Toronto group vitaminsforyou (show some myspace love to these dudes). The song is titled, "B4U", which once again, TMDP has thoroughly blessed with thier magic touch.

vitaminsforyou - B4U (TMDP remix)

And to close up this post with and 'ender-ender', we have the always glorious Fred Falke. I love this dude, him and Braxe are geniuses in my books, and it really seems like since Falke did that dope remix to "Golden Cage" by The Whitest Boy Alive, he has been wreckin' shit lately. Surely I have been talking for long enough and this track needs no introduction, that being said, VHS or Beta are pretty enjoyable as awlays and Falke lays down remix gold. The build up is a little stretched out, just shy of 2 min., but when the real beat breaks out and then the vocals for the chorus drops, oh my is it fun. As in, "its a gloriously bright, warm day out and I get to walk around in the down town with my sun sunnies on, in a t-shirt and this track in my headphones? Fuck yeah!" You should be stoked. so enjoy.

VHS Or BETA - Burn It All Down (Fred Falke remix)

Also, in reference to some whack links and Imeem links (which only let you stream the track live) which were still lingering have now been fixed; they were changed to the Media Fire format (right click the link and select "open in new tab", hit up the new link to download that shit!), which we have made standard, you can check out the fixed up post, which is on my favourite tracks from Cut Copy's bodacious mix So Cosmic, right here.

Peace and Love.

p.s. I fully realize this may be considered desperate, but I'll be honest, we love to read what our readers think of the site and the music, not to mention broken links, so let us know whats up; post up some comments for us. thanks a bunch from me (erger) and all of the 317 crew...
cheers!

2009-03-15T01:32:00.014-04:00

The New Music: March, wk 11
with Get Famous!

Get Famous! consist of JNL and Aaron Ives representing Winnipeg, Manitoba. I ran across them surfing the local blogs (see links on right) and hypemachine. The Canadian duo have created something outstanding in the track entitled, "Slip Away." It throws me back to the vibes which Bot'Ox "Grand Central" used to give to me when I first heard it. "Slip Away" lives up to its name tossing up a dreamy electro trip. It's sick to see Canadian music showing some serious potential lately. Fucking eh.

Get Famous! - Slip Away

(to anyone who has never heard the much older Bot'Ox)

Bot'Ox - Grand Central

2009-03-13T07:33:00.003-04:00

DUSTY FINGERS
(repost from March 10.09)

Late nights are more than often my most creative and productive time, vigorously sifting through both EBay and Craigslist for records and that rare instrument deal. Other than that, when every young professional is getting their shit together for work, I am rocking out hard to some tunes I have come across while burning that midnight oil. While waiting for torrents to finish up and spreading my collection of CDs and records arrogantly across my bedroom, I have come across a couple bangers I would love to share.

Tru Thoughts Records and the artists which reside on their label are doing some great things. Although recently much hasn’t been done, the past will not be forgotten by this heavy head. Firstly we got some collaboration and pure gold by our friend Quantic. Going by the name of The Limp Twins, the sound of Funk, Dub, R&B, and Soul come together quite nicely and really pump a smooth vibe. Just take a listen to these couple tracks and tell me you don’t dig hard. Please enjoy these two as much as I do.

This track in particular gets things going for me …

The Limp Twins - Another Day In The Life of Mr. Jones

The Limp Twins - Get It Back

Next on the chopping block, another Tru Thoughts beauty this time by the name of Kinny. Kinny being the neo-soul phenom that she is gets together with many of her TT companions to create some real soulful tracks. Again, I just put up a couple of tracks for you folks to catch which will hopefully inspire some further research on your own part. These are just great late night tracks to get the mind flowing, please enjoy.

Kinny - Enough Said ft. The Quantic Soul Orchestra

Kinny - Desire ft. Nostalgia 77

Being as I cannot seem to get enough of Tru Thoughts I thought I would through up a few more for ya …

Belleruche - Bought and Sold (DMCA rbr)

Belleruche - It'll Come (DMCA rbr)

Lately my head is been entirely focused toward the sweet sound of soul and funk. While there is new stuff floating around this device we call the Information Super Highway one cannot deny the roots of the past. Confined to the internet and the par record shops here in the Capital I have managed to scoop up some bangers. Below I have found some classic tracks I would love to spread the word on. Great instrumentals, great vocals, and above all great Horns, I do not have too much say much more that. Keep digging in those crates for those forgotten gems and dusty classics, nothing beats a great find.

Head Band - War On The Streets (DMCA rbr)

Bernard Pretty Purdie - Whatcha See is Whatcha Get

Pleasure Web - Music Man (pt 1 & 2) (DMCA rbr)

The Darktaris - Eltsuhg Labl lasiti (DMCA rbr)

Eric Hines - Our Generation (DMCA rbr)

Ha, just stumbled upon this track … apparently Asher Roth is a “blogger” favorite, but I must be to removed from the scene to grip this fellow. Anyways … I thought this song was kind of dope for a couple of listens, damn do I love novelty rap. Hopefully this will grace my "Partay" playlist <:0) HA!

Asher Roth - I Love College

In trying to find some information on Treasure Fingers himself, all I came across was some shotty homepages and an ad filled MySpace page. Nonetheless, some great stuff here. Some really groovy remixes to feast upon. Jump in.

Treasure Fingers - Cross The Dance Floor (Chromeo Remix)

The Death Set – Negative Thinking (Treasure Fingers Remix)

Cheers,

Qwantum

2009-03-11T18:21:00.016-04:00

SMOOTHER THAN PEANUT BUTTER

There is something to be said for real instruments. The smooth bass licks, guitar riffs and banging drum lines cannot be beat by their electronic counter part. I know I might catch some flak for this statement, but my conviction remains concrete. In all modern music, the process of production and the reassessment on the behalf of the sound engineer seem to leave out that sense of imperfection and in my opinion the true authenticity of music. No means of listening to music has the same appeal as that of a live show. Crowd reaction, atmosphere, artistic variations all contribute to the appeal of not only a live show but also the music itself. New recording equipment and professionals might make the music sound “better” but you in essence you can lose the imperfections of not only in voice but also instruments, which in my opinion is the beauty of music. The spontaneity the occurs during the creating and recording processes. My arguments can continue in the way people listen to music as well. The hills and valleys of vinyl records have been replaced by the ones and zeros of digital music. While the sound quality is often arguable, I prefer the sense of nostalgia and authenticity found the black grooves of a record vs. the click of a mouse. While I am guilty of hypocrisies as I am an advent digital user I thought I would make a point here and profess my opinion and love of vinyl and physical instruments. Anyways I just needed a medium to project my opinion and well, here it is for those that actually read my often problematic entries.

This break was hiding in my collection. It is a little intense at first, with a hard congo line but some string rhythm breaks in after a while and just destroys it! This track has got some serious funk to it. I would be surprised after a couple of listens if you do not start dancing a little yourself. Don’t know too much about the African Music Machine, beside their dope name and this dope track but I will be looking into more of their stuff and hopefully some bangers will be discovered. I am a little weary about the way in which the track ends and leads me to believe that my copy is cut short but other than that, bukka! what a beauty. Breaks have been a mysterious pleasure of mine, I don’t know too much about them and I am not sure how the genre really came about besides their use in break dancing, but when I come across one JIMMENY, look out. Please enjoy this bad boy, I know I have!

African Music Machine – Disco Congo

When I was back in the great city of Toronto on Christmas break I had found myself on a bit of dig in the trendiest area of town I could find, the Queen and Spadina junction. I am just going to spread the word on a couple of Record and CD shops in the area to give em some love and respect and hopefully some ideas if you find yourself in Toronto. Firstly, the classic scene shop Rotate This. Although the staff can often be snotty and pretentious they have a great selection of Records and CDs both new and used, great shop if you know what you are looking for or simply are digging. Penguin Records on the other hand has a great selection of jazz records with the odd overlooked deal; Penguin also has a dope selection of new “indie” records to choose from. Penguin moved recently to a new location which I often get lost finding so bare with me. Anyways the point of this paragraph was the mention Cosmos Records a great soul/funk/blues shop with two locations of equal value. The guy that works at the Queen location knows what he is doing and had some serious knowledge. I had picked up on impulse a record he had mentioned to me, The Ramsey Lewis Trio – Upendo Nipamoja. Very reasonably priced, and worth every penny spent. The art work looks like a hastily bought birthday card from your Aunt and Uncle on their way to your party. So I was a little weary of my purchase until I got home and heard what was on the record. The track I have made available is smoother than peanut butter, enough said.

Ramsey Lewis Trio – Slippin' into Darkness

Got a little something else that you might enjoy if you dig on Ramsey Lewis, a little more upbeat in a way, but is smooth as hell.

Melvin Van Peebles – Sweetback’s Theme

This track is a bit of a mystery to me as well. A track by an artist (or a group I am unsure) by the name of the Baltimore Beat Connection. This remix of Paul Simon’s 50 Ways to Lose Your Lover is killer. BBC employs the classic drum line from the original track that overtime has become infamous over its time and a sped up rendition of Simon’s vocal track. Take a listen for yourselves and hopefully I can gather some more information about this bad boy. Please if anyone has any other tracks including the Baltimore Beat Connection let me know, send them my way, inform me, and do something ha! I simply cannot seem to find anything. Here is the sole track I have come in contact with so please enjoy.

Baltimore Beat Connection - 50 Ways

Cheers,
Qwantum

2009-03-11T00:07:00.007-04:00

Just Playing Catch-Up

The past week we have neglected some stuff we shouldn't have. We apologize. We offer these "forgotten" songs as tribute.

DJ Mujava - Township Funk (Boys 8-Bit Remix)

I have had this remix to DJ Mujava for just over a week now. My copy was in rough shape, low quality and therefore was very quiet with a loooong fade-in (30 secs). I attempted to tweak this version a bit to get the acoustics a little bit louder. Once I did it was masterful. Boys 8-Bit sound like a combination between the Crookers and Digitalism with a raw, wicked synth. However!!! wait for it- give it some time to warm up in it's interlude.

The Teenagers - Feeling Better (Build Remix)

This song has been tossed and turned since early '08. However, I think this Build remix finally hit the spot I was looking for in The Teenagers. A great track to waste the night away with, whatever the mood.

Sebastien Tellier - Kilometer (A-Trak Extended Dub)

As part of A-Trak's promotional countdown to his new release Infinity+1 on March 31, he has released an extended dub version of Sebastien Tellier's "Kilometer." it's GOLD.

Lykke Li -Little Bit (Death To The Throne Remix)

This track is awesome. Death To The Throne added some bass to one of the more softer, captivating tracks within Lykke Li's history. However, this is a really old throwback. It's still a product of 2009- put probably mid January.... my baaaaad.

2009-03-10T01:21:00.012-04:00

Local Love:

Golden Girls and the 84.85

I truly hate to make people worry, but concern yourself with this: how can pop music be great and something along the lines of "shock-rock disco jock", at the same time (in the deep voice of Rahzel, the Godfather of Noise). No worries, because the answer has come to me in a glorious dream; Golden Girls, a name that was mentioned here about a week ago, is a one man show in Mats Vlahovich and he has come to save us all from these obscure and mostly meaningless musical questions.

Basing himself out of Toronto, Mats makes music which has its roots, from what I can tell, in eighties' pop, synthesized out with some crafty kicks and snares. Is it Danceable? Fuck yeah. Hype enough? Oh my, yes. Whats more is that apparently the Golden Girls Ep, XOXO, which was originally scheduled for release in April, has now been moved up to come out in March (check myspace for details).

As a quick 'aside', I implore you to take a chance if you haven't already and go with your instincts on the Designer Drugs remix. In the event you don't know who I am speaking of, I apologize for this senseless banter, but I really encourage you to check out the myspace link I included above. So enough of my jabbering and on with the goods:

Golden Girls - Big League
Golden Girls - Do the Criminal
Golden Girls - Do the Criminal (Designer Drugs Remix)

Next up are fellow Torontonians, on the more electro-rap tip which we love here at 317, the 84.85. They are three: Cassius, Jay 84 and T, and damn, they now how drop dope beats and "break in mic stands" (emphasis added to MF Doom quote; another bad habit of mine exposed).

In any case, these dudes are rad as fuck, so hit 'em up. Oh, and the remix by DJ Barletta, another native of Toronto (more to come on him soon), is straight dirty-fun that instills visions of drunkenness and vibes of all out dancey goodness. This is not to say, however, that the originals and the remix by the 84.85 included below are not dope in their own right, so enjoy more tastiness:

the 84.84 - Breathe
the 84.85 - Don't Worry
the 84.85 - Don't Worry (DJ Barletta Remix)
DJ Barletta - Bass Live (84.85 Remix)

So that about does it, hopefully you enjoy the beats and there will be more to come on everyone mentioned above sooner than later. In the words of one of the wisest people of which I have ever had the pleasure of making acquaintance, "Keep your fuckin' game tight", and as always, peace and love.

2009-03-08T11:22:00.007-04:00

The New Music: March. wk 10
with Tigersapien, Tesla Boy & Kris Menace

We pause to bring yet another installment of the weekly noisemakers. New York's Tigersapien are catching a lot of attention over the net with a number of new tracks rolling in. One that particularly caught my attention was the "God Knows (Kolt13 - Pornostream Remix)" I stumbled across. I checked out the orig and while they're are a few changes and differences, both tracks knocked my socks off. The sporadic baseline and rhythmics in this remix made it the winner of today's post.

Tigersapien - God Knows (Kolt13 - Pornostream Remix)

I'll come out straight and admit I have a bit of a bias towards Tesla Boy. The very fact that he is operating out of Moscow and making some sweet vibes there screams awesome. I find Russia and Russian history extremely fascinating- but that's neither here nor there and I will stay on topic. Tesla Boy explores keys, bass, and drums to create some mellow, really vibed-out stuff.

Tesla Boy - Neon Love

Tesla Boy - Spirit Of The Night

Veteran French-house musician Kris Menace is releasing a huge 3-disc collection (37 track special) of his own work that features the old, the new, and some colabs/remixes. The compilation "Idiosyncrasies” is expected to drop in April off his own label Compuphonic. With any luck we'll have some tracks to showcase leading up to the release, but to hold you over for now check these beauts. It also helps when you're in the know with French legend Fred Falke.

Kris Menace - Poesie

Kris Menace ft. Fred Falke - Enamoured

2009-03-07T04:03:00.004-05:00

A-Trak is baaaaack!

A-Trak's new disc Infinity+1 is out on March 31st and we couldn't be more excited. He's released an album teaser that is nothing but sick. It highlights a lot of the very best that hit the speakers last year and of course he stamps it with his own unique sound. Not only talented in producing and mixing, he's also innovative in marketing. A-Trak devised a new countdown website that drops something noteworthy each day by some dope affiliated artist until his new album drops. Why wouldn't you want to update yourself each day? Check the site and while you do check out the teaser. A-Trak is baaaaack!!!!

A-Trak - Infinity+1 Teaser

2009-03-07T03:43:00.003-05:00

Calvin Harris + N.C.Y.

Calvin Harris dropped "I'm not alone" earlier this year. I'm not going to lie I was a bit hesitant after the first listen mainly because it strays far beyond the Calvin Harris we all are used to. Thankfully I smartened up after a couple listens, took my shades off and saw the gold beneath. If you don't feel it the first time, give it a second- you may just be happy you did.

Calvin Harris - I'm Not Alone (DMCA rbr)

Savannah Waves by N.C.Y. (Not Cool Yet) only took one listen. It's a demo instrumental I came across the other day on BigStereo. Not Cool Yet appear to be almost half a year old and yet they seem to have mastered soft synth. They have only released two demo's to the public but each make their own individual statement. Lots of potential coming out of Australia!

N.C.Y. (not cool yet) - Savannah Waves (320 KBS)

BONUS!

The Stills - Being Here (Mansion Remix) (DMCA rbr)

2009-03-06T02:47:00.008-05:00

Gentlemen Thieves

We were lucky enough to have a few tracks dropped to us by New York's own Gentlemen Thieves. They have been producing music for a little over two years but decided only last September to release them via MySpace. We're happy they did. "Wild Card" and "Magic" showcase the wide variety Thieves produce. "Wild Card" is an instrumental which houses various elements and techniques. Rhythm and tempo are always in motion throughout the track. The sporadic use of sounds moving in and out create a mash-up mix of goodness! "Magic" tosses in variations of what embodies much of the electro, pop, and dance scene currently. Catchy and captivating lyrics with a special Gentlemen Thieves magic makes it a simple track to mix and keep the dance floor moving. We don't want to spoil all the fun as more can be found via their MySpace. So check em out and throw them some love. Hope you enjoy!

Gentlemen Thieves - Wild Card

Gentlemen Thieves - Magic

2009-03-01T03:46:00.020-05:00

GNARTY PARLY

Greetings all, off the bat, I owe some peeps mad apologies as I have been seriously out of touch with the blog world for the past two weeks. Although I don't truly believe in catching up, in the sense of the internet, that is neither here nor there.

So looking slightly ahead on your calendar's, to everybody's favourite March holiday, the almighty and festive St. Patrick's day. Well this year, on March 17th, 317's best mates, GNARTY PARLY, holdin' down Hamilton, Ontario, and beyond, are throwing a St. Patrick's day (really its at night) dance party @ the Casbah Lounge. Headlining the show are none other than Toronto's finest, Parallels and at their side, local heroes, the Golden Girls, accompanied by CFMU 93.3 (McMaster University Radio Station) In the Cut fame, DJ RAYZ (more to come on him soon). Oh wow... I am definitely beyond excited or stoked, perhaps cosmically amped, or something along those inter galactic lines... I think its fair to say this event is going to be a boat load of fun, trust me, I grew up next to a fuckin' harbour, shit is crazy. check the delicious poster:

So to give all those a little sample of the Parallels, which consists of Cameron Findlay and Holly Dodson, who make lovely, sometimes dark, dance music, synthesized out in wonderful and glorious fashion, which has an entrancing vibe to keep your ears and body hooked and happy. Take a listen to these treats, and show some myspace love to the Golden Girls, as we have yet to acquire their dope tracks we so desperately seek. no worries though, patience is a virtue. the goods:

Parallels - Magnetics
Parallels - Dry Blood
Parallels - Ultralight
Parallels - Back to Earth Mix (for Valerie)

For info on the show, check the GNARTY PARLY myspace. From Ottawa, with mad peace and love, to Hamilton, peep the illest post card ever:

p.s.p.s. - sorry about the broken links, I believe they have been fixed this time, so pick 'em up while they're hot!!

2009-02-27T16:57:00.011-05:00

The New Music: February, wk. 9
with Justin Faust

Justin Faust's newest release Revenge EP came out earlier this week. As a special treat he has released three mixes of tracks found within the album. Get them while they're hot. As for Faust, he's no stranger to the industry. He has been producing music since 1992 and in doing so has developed his own unique sound that speaks for itself. Faust has also made noise with some of his own remixes including work from Hamilton's own Electric Youth. With the release of Revenge, Faust has created some of the best chill synth I have heard in a long time.

Justin Faust - The Capri Spinoff (Cyndi Seui Night Drive Killer)

Justin Faust - Surfer Mystique (Pelifics Remix)

Justin Faust - Revenge (Russ Chimes Remix)

Electric Youth - Replay (Justin Faust Remix)
(not featured on Revenge-EP)

2009-02-25T23:34:00.008-05:00

time to celebrate!

A lot has been accomplished over the last few days. We lengthened the show listings section on the right sidebar to cover most of the next couple months. If we have left anything out that you know of please let us know via comment or email. As for the content, the next couple months look pretty decent if you can pull yourself away from any obligations you may already have. Initial stuff that catches my attention is the April 9th/11th trio of MSTRKRFT, Crookers, & Steve Aoki set to hit Toronto/Montreal respectively. The Twelves come to Toronto March 26th. Calvin Harris is in town on the 27th, and if you can still get tickets check in on A-Trak in Toronto May 13th. Anyway I won't spoil all the goods, check the listing for more and keep updated for new listings marked with an asterisk (*).

To keep the positive mood flowing it appears like I may actually survive this week. Somehow I have managed to stay atop everything, which is pretty sweet. So in part to celebrate the new addition to the site and the weekend on the horizon (hump day!), here's a random tasty batch to check out. Keep the music flowing.

Adele - Hometown Glory (Chewy Choclate Cookies Remix)

Friendly Fires - Skeleton Boy (Air France Remix)

Tyson Alexanderic - Seduction

Curses! - The Deep End (Holy Ghost! Remix)

2009-02-24T23:52:00.019-05:00

...BUKKA

Having a week’s worth of bumming around and drinking has allowed me not only to catch up on some sleep but also some much needed music time. In my days of waking up at 2pm and staying out all night, I had stumbled upon some great tunes I would love to share. I got a few oldies and a few dated tracks but nonetheless some bangers to attribute to the 317 repertoire.

Mainstream isn’t all that bad at times. Michael Jackson and the great Stevie Wonder are a couple of examples to back up my claim. Here I have a track from Raphael Saadiq that I would like to share, real poppy but at the same time a great tune to get the party bump’n and shake’n. Speaking of Stevie Wonder, picture Superstition or on that note a young Stevie playing this track and a shocking resemblance will be draped over your thoughts as you listen to this one ladies and gentlemen. I will include both tracks for those of you that might need a little refresher.

Raphael Saadiq - 100 Yard Dash

Stevie Wonder - Superstition

Anyways Saadiq kills it on this track and the video is no exception. Not going to say too much about this one seeing as I just came across it. Saadiq being the groovy fellow that he is … is in need of some recognition and in my opinion this is the best way for me, myself to do that. His other tracks don’t do much for me but this guy hits it hard. Please enjoy.

Though I would add an almost unrecognizable remix to keep with the direction of the 317 crew … which I might add I thoroughly enjoy, HA.

Stevie Wonder - Superstition (Justice Remix)

So I have kind been getting on to the funk and soul train lately and digging into the depths that are the “classics”. In my search for the perfect soul song I have come across a couple of more recent groups doing some really great things. Firstly, we got The Bamboos, what a great bunch of fellows … great album artwork, great tracks, just great. So please push back the computer chair you have spent countless hours in and take the time to check out these guys. Number two … a funk fellow going by the name of Lack of Afro (website) must be represented here. Just check ‘em out maybe you like him maybe you don’t … I just got to spread the love. Just a note about Lack of Afro, i need to mention this is one guy working out a flat in England creating some of the best sounding stuff i have heard in a long time.

The Bamboos - Bamboos Them

Lack of Afro - When The Sun Goes Down

Cheers,

Qwantum

2009-02-24T22:34:00.006-05:00

Feed Me + Breakbot

Feed Me may be operating under a new name, but as Philip points out, he is not new at all. Under his alias spor he emerged out of the drum and bass scene dropping stuff for such labels as renegade hardware and subtitles.

Feed Me has recently released an electro mix to "not so pretty" by rogues. It maintains much of the pop lyrics but tosses up a dirty, dirty beat. Interesting, catchy, and new consider me in.

Rogues - Not So Pretty (Feed Me Mix)

Speaking of dirty beats. Breakbot re-emerged with "Penelope Pitstop." It has its own vibe going on- and the keyboard addition does it wonders. Check it out- wooo Breakbot!

Breakbot - Penelope Pitstop

2009-02-23T13:18:00.003-05:00

Kings of Leon VS. Lykke Li

I recently became infatuated with the Kings of Leon VS. Lykke Li Rodeo Mashup to "Knocked Up." Yeah I know, it's a mouthful. Lykke Li's emotional vocals captivate the soft rhythm produced by the Kings. As a result, the tandom combine to create a riveting sensual mix.

Kings of Leon VS. Lykke Li - Knocked Up (Rodeo Mashup)

Li's going to be appearing later this year at the Coachella Festival (April 17-19th in California). The lineup is starting to look pretty tasty with the likes of Crystal Castles, Felix da Housecat, N.A.S.A., The Presets, Crookers, Hercules And Love Affair, Junior Boys, MSTRKRFT, Friendly Fires, Groove Armada, Sebastien Tellier, and of course Lykke Li all scheduled to perform. Check it out if you want to get an early start on the summer.

2009-02-20T16:43:00.007-05:00

Lebatman

A Little Throwback

Lately I've been stuck in my room doing assignment after assignment. As a result, I tend to play more instrumental vibes and beats with no lyrics. This post is to showcase some of the best in that section of my library. Lebatman covers a large component of this. He is undeniably talented at production music. Almost everything he produces I seem to enjoy on one level or another. Although these next two songs are a little dated, they are worth keeping around because they are both devastatingly good. If you like these two tracks chances are Lebatman is for you. Check out his myspace where has an extensive collection posted for all to enjoy!

Lebatman - La Maitresse Aux Yeux D'or

Lebatman - Valentina

2009-02-20T10:51:00.011-05:00

The New Music: February, wk. 8
with FISK and SIDECHAINS

Thanks to the lovely individuals at Hot Biscuits, I was recently introduced to Fisk. The biscuits date them back to being prominent around 2007. They produce a real gritty sound that seems to come from a mash-up of various sounds, genres, and loops. New or not, it's sick.

Fisk - Death In The Streets

Sidechains stumbled in with a new mix the other day that's just starting to grow on me now. It's the Tits and Clits Remix, entitled "Dance While You Can." Anyway, I included "Can't Love You Babe" to show off their potential if the new remix doesn't hit you. Enjoy.

Sidechains - Dance While You Can (Tits & Clits Remix)

Sidechains - Can't Love You Babe

2009-02-18T16:29:00.009-05:00

Friendly Fires

Paul Epworth recently released a mix of "Skeleton Boy" originally put out by Friendly Fires. It stays a little more upbeat, but doesn't stray too far from the original. Regardless it's a sick track; and therefore I don't know who to credit for it. However, hearing the name Friendly Fires recalled some sick stuff to my library, mainly "Paris." To keep with the mix theme, included within is a remix by Aeroplane. They capture and lengthen some of the legendary synth created by the trio. It was one of my favourite mixes last year. Enjoy!

Friendly Fires - Skeleton Boy (Paul Epworth Version)

Friendly Fires - Paris (Aeroplane Remix)

2009-02-12T21:00:00.008-05:00

it still hasn't gotten weird enough for me

Alright I'm not going to lie, I was a little thrown by what I should showcase tonight. Since I haven't found the time to go through any new stuff I thought I would start with an artist who has remained pretty constant on my playlist. I decided to chose Weird Tapes, which was surprising even for me. It's not surprising that they hit the blog; it's just surprising how often they seem to "randomly" come across my speakers.

No Paradise - Hail Social (Weird Tapes Edit)

Personal Best - Faux Fox (Weird Tapes)

Party Trash - Weird Tapes

For those that don't know Weird Tapes is a solo project from Hail Social that became big mid-year. I wish I had more info for you, but from what I gather not many people do. What I do know however is that they do make some finger lickin' good beats. As always, enjoy!

2009-02-12T00:15:00.023-05:00

Music Comes From Outer Space

I know it is a ways away but the Junior Boys are coming to Ottawa May 5, 2009. Excited to see these guys, but at the same time disappointed that Max Tundra isn’t touring with them. Anyways I have gotten some feedback about my use of IMEEM. I am torn but I must switch to another means of sharing. I had looked into “Castblogone” but Blogger doesn’t seem to support it. I like the idea of being able to stream music right off my post, but I guess I will have to make due. Alternatively, I have set up a means for you guys to simply download the track vs. just listening to them, hopefully that works out better for you guys. I am still in the process of finding a means to stream tracks right off the post but for now this is what is happening.

Anyways in response to the Junior Boys news I have made available a few tracks for your listening pleasure. There is a lot of tour dates in the upcoming months, and not to my surprise a number of Canadian shows. Coming right out of Hamilton, Ontario (ha) these guys rip it, simple. Just enjoy and have fun … hopefully you might be able to add something to your dance party mix or to a sloppy Friday night.

Star - Sleep Tonight (Junior Boys Remix)

This first track is a compilation of two great bands, two different scenes and one great sound. Two great Canadian groups putting something together! This track has kind of a shadowy sound … slow, but not transparent … if glass had a sound … I think this might be it.

Junior Boys - Bits and Pieces

This track picks up the beat a little bit. Very nice track, a great representation of the Junior Boys. Can not wait to see these guys, hopefully a decent venue in Ottawa will pick them up and a party will be had.

Digging in my collection again today to find those long lost tracks, and look what I found. I want to through it back a little bit, to some still fresh hip hop and hit up a little Rakim. Just tossing back to a dope track, one that may have been forgotten over the years. Nothing to say about this one … just gold though. Have a listen and remember the good of days of hip hop.

Rakim - When I B on Tha Mic

Not going to talk you ear off this time around but I have another song I want share. The beauty of hypemachine has allowed me to come across Peter Hadar. Don’t know too much about the guy, just came across this track and thought I would share it on the Information Super Highway. Doing some quick research this guy is from New Jersey and is apparently a neosoul phnom. His record "Memories of the Heart apparently has a smooth blend of midtempo groove, so i have read. I personal have only heard this one track and I am down to hear some more. I am looking forward to finding this album and giving a full listen and really getting a feeling for this midtempo groove as it were.

Peter Hadar - Sweet

Oh yea … ha, forgot about this one, introducing the beautiful and contagious PJ Harvey. This is a great track, a little off beat from what is regularly posted on this particular blog but I have no doubt in my mind that once you give this song a chance or two … you will not be disappointed. Harvey has been a major player in the “indie” scene for quite some time, just thought I would toss this one out there and see what response I get.

PJ Harvey - When Under Ether

Cheers

- Qwantum

2009-02-10T16:11:00.022-05:00

Canada's in Danger! Danger's in Canada!

Danger aka Frank Rivoire hailing from Lyon, France rips it up hard as an electronic "musician" or so he likes to call. Riviore expands on the heavy 80s electronic scene making excellent vibes he slaps modernity with. He is equally talented in producing his own music and remixing tracks. Judge for yourself with the songs provided. He is currently signed by Ekler' o'shock. You may find some more stuff there if you feel like browsing.

However! If you can get to these listed Canadian cities in the coming days, you may want to seriously check out Danger on his North American tour which is right around the corner. I apologize in advance for the short notice for these Canadian listings. But consider this a personal invitation to the exciting adventure of frantically trying to obtain last minute tickets.

Feb 12 : Montreal : Parking Club
Feb 15 : Toronto : The Drink
Feb 19 : Calgary: Snatch

Sebastien Tellier - Divine (Danger Remix)

Empire Of The Sun - Walking On A Dream (Danger Remix) **

Symbol One - Love Juice (Danger Remix)

Danger - 00h00 (Feat. Vyle)

Having never attended one of his shows, I hear nothing but great things. Props to redthreat for posting a heads up. Apparently the accompanying visual effects he brings with are just unreal as well, which is of course a nice little added bonus. My personal NEW favourite is the Walking On A Dream Remix. It can be a little more aggressive at times and has a sick dropbeat that I really dig about halfway through the track. Enjoy.

I also wanted to say thanks to MEGAPHONE TEETH for leaving his touch on here. We look forward to hearing from him more often, check out his blog for an equally sexy swagger in a different genre.

2009-02-09T20:15:00.012-05:00

It's MONDAY! chill the fuck out.

I have been confined to the computer for a good portion of the last 48 hours with upcoming deadlines on the horizon. But one benefit is while I was 'working' I introduced myself to Aether. This is the alias of Diego Chavez, a graphic designer and music producer representing San Antonio, TX. Chavez is a talented producer who combines hip hop and electro to create a signature sound that travels throughout his mixes. His music strays a little from what we're used to on 317 electro but it's well deserving. Chavez attributes his Hip Hop influence to the East Coast scene and previously made noise remixing Lykke Li's "Little Bit." He just released his solo album earlier this year entitled, "Artifacts." Check out these two little dandies.

Aether - Orfeu Negro

Aether - Makeshift Sanctuary

(art of Diego Chavez)

The track that immediately grabbed me was "Orfeu Negro", and I have no true words to describe it but it's... so chill, instantly relaxes me and in a way that i find comforting. Once I heard it I had to go searching for more and I found a track called "Makeshift Sanctuary." It showcases the talented genre mashup that Chavez is capable of with mixing in with variants from both hip hop and electro. Anyway I hope you dig it, and if you want more follow the link right.... here!

2009-02-09T19:41:00.014-05:00

Orange Blossom

I just came home from getting my hair cut, in which I had an interesting conversation with the Barber. Although I hate small talk for the most part, talking with this man was an interesting experience and at the same time we really didn’t talk about anything in particular. It was odd; I had enjoyed talking with this man even though weather and sports had been the major topic of our conversation. The speed in which I was out of the barbershop had sparked a new found interest in small talk, and prompted a day of new findings and firsts.

Getting away from this lame introduction, this is my first post (of many) on 317ELECTRO and well I thought I would do my best to make it a banger. I would like to introduce an interesting fellow by the name of Pavor Stelar. His blend of 1920s, 1930s jazz, swing and blues mixed and sampled with modern house, electro, club, or whatever you want to call it, is unique and refreshing. I believe he is from France, as he is on the French label EtageNoir, although I could be wrong, seeing as I have also read that he also might be from Austria. Regardless of where he is from, Stelar rips it over and over again. Off his 2005 album RoughCuts here is a track called KissKiss. Being one of the more accessible tracks of his, KissKiss is by no other word, a banger. Enjoy.

Kisskiss - Parov Stelar

Blind Alley feat. Sax Max & Lylit - Parov Stelar

I have tried to upload this track a few times, but something ends up wrong either on my end or another, but I am going to give it a go one last time(I might have to upload this track YouTube styley, so bare with me).

The Sweet Divines, a rare album unless you want to go to a show and actually buy it from them, hard when they are based in NYC and you don’t have a car or money, but an awesome track none the less. The Sweet Divines have a classic big band feel to them in vocals while at the same time, the instrument play has a more contemporary approach it to. Not sure what else to say in particular except for this song will going down as a classic in my library and remain a player for a long time. I would love to attend one of their shows, just hoping it would be an experience not often found today. Hope you guys make it to Canada, more specifically Ottawa or Montreal some time soon.

Honeythistle - The Sweet Divines

This is a great cooled out remix to the Gorillaz’s Feel Good Inc. A great dub style beat with a much cooler tone then the original. I am not going to make any silly cliches, or jokes about the DJs name, although i would love to. The Van city, BC native Kutcorners has really out done himself this time around. Check out some of his other tracks and you won’t be disappointed. This pair of tracks took some shifty finagling to get a hold of but I got them and i am sharing. I want to make sure I give credit where credit is due so check out Kutcorners.

Gorillaz - Feel Good Inc Remix - KutCorners

Get Caught - KutCorners

Also, i have a quick question, so if anyone can answer it for that would be great. Who is the artist who did the work for the latest Chromeo album?

- Qwantum

2009-02-08T19:45:00.024-05:00

Up North Trip

Let me begin by saying there is nothing quite like enjoying good music with great people and friends. So this post and the working title have little to do with the seminal Mobb Deep track, but the track mentioned does refer to my crew of friends that came to visit me in Ottawa this weekend and also attended the aforementioned show @ Babylon on Sat. Feb. 7th w/ Jokers of the Scene and Andy Butler from Hercules and Love Affair. To cut to the chase, mad shout outs, peace and even more love to the neighborhood crew representin' Hamiltron!!!! And word up to Gnarty Parly!!! (more to come on these dudes sooner than later...)

To further cut to the chase, the show was fucking brilliant, we effectively danced the night away, peace to the jokers of the scene, they held down the home turff with style and grandeur all their own. As for Andy Butler, yeah you could say he killed it, you could say it was fun, you could even go so far as to say that it was a great set that seemed to go 'till 3am and the reality was: Ottawa + Andy Butler = love.

Moving onwards, talk of fun and love inspires more fun and love I think, in any case, this weekend I also stumbled upon a lovely remix by an Italian fellow named Broke One who hails from the northern city of Lecco. The song, "Blue Dream Lover", is originally done by the down under Gold Coasters Elke. A pretty fresh track on its own, no doubt, however, while Broke One may not be a religious man he has surely blessed this track. Whether its the glorious synth/bit-mashed breakdowns, or that little extra added funky disco vibe care of a beefed up base line has, no doubt, made a priceless heirloom out of a gem of a track. Aside, you can tell I am in a great mood because the terrible puns are flowing. And now the goods...

Elke - Blue Dream Lover (BROKE ONE Remix)

So after some research, I found that this fine Italian beat-craftsman is up to no good. And by "no good" I mean he fuckin' keeps it real. Mad love to BigStereo for the tracks which I am about to share. I was kinda vibin' more off the two remixes, but its literally all rad. Let me know what you ladies gents think in zee comments sectioné. cash money.

Casa Del Mirto - Bad Girls Surf (BROKE ONE Remix)

The Phonograph - Erasmus (BROKE ONE Remix)

Broke One - Tempo

Broke One - EVRBD!

Broke One - The New Wave

On the same tip, not to say that the remixes aren't funky or whatever, because it doesn't really matter, they're dope in their own right, but the Casa Del Mirto and The Phonograph remixes display a little grittier dance style than the three of his original tracks. His own stuff is definitely got a little more funky disco vibe. Either way the name of this Italian's game is diversity, as Lauryn Hill said, "many styles - more powerful than gamma rays". Check the blog world out for his other remixes, not too shabby. ciao for now.

2009-02-06T00:13:00.011-05:00

The New Music: February, wk 6

This week we're lucky to have two disgustingly good songs to unleash. Up first is the CCENTURIESS mix to "You're In My Heart" by Lioness. It's out of this world. It starts off with a spacey synth vibe that increasingly begins to pickup and then all of a sudden drops the nastiest cross-breed of what I can only describe as a jazz horn with some sick flare. The track blows up reviving itself with striking house vocals provided by Vanessa Fischer. I jumped on it as soon as I heard it. The only question I have is what happened to my sick jazz horn?
where'd you go?

Lioness - You’re In My Heart (CCENTURIESS Remix)

This Classixx mix just spells epic within twenty seconds of listening to it. It's soft synth throws me back to the same nostalgic feeling 1979 gives to me by the Smashing Pumpkins. This song immediately grabs you. Whether out cruisin' the streets, or watching the minutes tick past midnight, Classixx hits it right on the spot.

Beni - My Love Sees You (Classixx Remix)

2009-02-05T18:55:00.031-05:00

Hercules And Love Affair
and
Jokers Of The Scene

Come one come all to the hottest thing in Ottawa this week, no fucking pun intended for those caught outside, but in all honesty Babylon is hosting a sick DJ set this Saturday, February 7th. Local Ottawa electro-jam pioneers, Jokers of the Scene (pictured below) are playing with, I believe Andy Butler, the mastermind of Hercules and Love Affair (pictured at the top), DFA's newest creation. In all fairness, in the case of Hercules and Love Affair, I am classically behind schedule with this one, the album debut was in March of '08 I believe, in any case, the band consists of, as mentioned above, the man, the myth, the legend: Andy Butler, Nomi Ruiz, Kim Ann Foxman and Antony Hegarty (from Anthony and the Johnsons).

So yeah these guys have brought something very fresh, funky, add a healthy dosage of disco vibes and some amazing vocals, from Antony Hegarty in particular. The tracks I'm gunna post up here feature Antony on vocals and their is no coincidence as I have a serious crush on this dude's style, pure dopeness! I digress, first the madness of "Blind", what a track, almost spooky and ethereal, but so real and infectious, the second, "Raise Me Up" features some great up-beat synth-keyboard breakdowns, and yet another entrancing baseline. 'nuf said.

Hercules and Love Affair - Blind

Hercules and Love Af fair - Raise Me Up

Next up is some material from the local boys, the Jokers. First, a dope remix of a slightly older track, by non other than Mr. Andy George and Scott Cooper. This track is sick, a little repetitive, but not so much that it stops you from moving about like a disco zombie (overused term!), whatever as Babylon would say, its all gravy. Second up by the Jokers is a track I'm not too big on, although it does have a dope piano loop and some pretty rad lyrics/vocals. In any case, I don't want to sound like a hater, so I'll just say it doesn't get me moving like the other track does, but it definitely portrays a different direction in their style and vibe. say what? say WORD!

One Bloody Sunday - Jokers of the Scene

Jump and Twist (Jokers of the Scene Remix) - Scott Cooper and Andy George

And one last treat for all you lovers of old house/even older disco/funk and soul. Recently, my/our good friend Adam posted up an amazing old jam by the mysterious and wonderful Stardust. Behind the pure gold single, "Music Sounds Better With You", lies an interesting and almost as equally catchy soulful jam by the diva herself Chaka Khan. Thank You Wikipedia! As promised, the original sample to "Music Sounds Better With You" by Stardust. Listen close for the sample, although its pretty easy to catch.

Chaka Khan - Fate

catch all those who can make it this Saturday @ Babylon in Ottawa, its gunna be a banger!
peace and love. erger.

2009-02-04T23:41:00.011-05:00

Thunderheist.

Rightly corrected, Thunderheist is one of Canada's emerging gem's! Straight out of our own backyard the tag team Thunderheist - front woman Isis and soundsmith Grahm Zilla - have never been hotter. Isis representing Toronto, and Grahm- Montreal are currently on a North American tour with stops in Osaka and Tokyo before headlining the newly announced Exclaim!'s 17th Anniversary Tour with tour dates listed below!

Thunderheist produce a form of electrorap that seem to have roots in hip hop, disco, and funk, all while defining a new and unique sound which is swallowing up the locals. "Jerk It" and "Suenos Duelcos" exploded onto the scene hard last year. This year is expected to be even bigger. If you get a chance seriously think about hitting any of the upcoming shows, and as for the Ottawa locals: mark April 10th on the calendar!

Thunderheist - Jerk It

Thunderheist - Suenos Duelces

Thunderheist - Jump Up

Thunderheist - Horny

4/3 Kingston, ON � Grad Club
4/4 Hamilton, ON � Pepper Jack's
4/10 Ottawa, ON � Babylon
4/11 Montreal, QC � Club Soda
4/17 Winnipeg, MB � Pyramid
4/18 Saskatoon, SK � Amigo's
4/21 Edmonton, AB � Starlite
4/23 Calgary, AB � Warehouse
4/30 Toronto, ON � Phoenix

Their new album is also set to release March 31st in North America with later international dates. We'll keep an eye out for any early releases.

2009-02-03T01:48:00.021-05:00

2 Run Homer!?: All hail A-Trak's hands!!

So yeah its been a while since my last post, I'm not sure exactly who this is directed at, but I apologize for my absence. So since my last post I was thinking, I should get off the entire land mass of the down under for a moment, and let my online musical adventures lead me elsewhere.

And where else to end up proper than right at home, or pretty fuckin' close, a stones throw over to Montreal, the lovely French Canadian, fresh as fuck central, home to none other than the world infamous DJ A-Trak (Alain Macklovitch), brother of Dave 1 (David Macklovitch), one half of Chromeo. A-Trak has jumped from different styles of music for his gifted hands and mind to warp into pure dopeness, whether it be in the direction of hip-hop and ghettotech (I use the latter term looselely), electro-dance, or even a little more on the disco side. To be completely honest, I have been following/in love with this particular Jewish/French/Canadian/dj for time, and this time around, wholly shit.... this is pure fuckin' dance gold. Dj's unite, Sebastien Tellier with a classic original, but lets be honest, if you've heard the original, the A-Trak remix to Sebastiean Tellier's "Kilometer" is stunning. Gorgeous even. Anyways from my comp, to mediashare, then with love and infective dance vibe intent, to yours..... the goods...

Sebastien Tellier - Kilometer (A-Trak Main)

Next up, keeping with the A-Trak theme, this is a throwback goody, an amazingly dirty banger from the German genius, Boys Noize, transformed into a chaotic - perhaps even dirtier - dance floor destroyer. sorry for the aggressive terminology, but if you have a listen you may just agree.

Boys Noize - Oh! (A-Trak Remix)

p.s. thanks to voulesrandom for the pic and track and mad love as always. erger

2009-02-02T00:48:00.016-05:00

The New Music: February, wk 5

What a great weekend! I celebrated everything and accomplished nothing. More weekends should sound like that. I'm exhausted, and keep occasionally glancing at my bed. It's looking more and more comfortable by the minute. With that in mind, I'm going to keep this post relatively quick. I have one newb to introduce that surfaced within the last week or so that's worth a peek. This is the new Treasure Finger's remix to the Miike Snow track "Animal."

Miike Snow - Animal (Treasure Fingers Remix)

The next three have all been released sporadically throughout the last year. Throughout my last few days of self-destruction has caused them to resurface on my computer. Therefore I feel like sharing. Check em out, I'm sure they are nothing new but hopefully they will bring back some awesome '08 mems like they did for me.

Faker - This Heart Attack (Miami Horror Remix)

Shooting Stars - Bag Raiders (Vocal)

2009-01-29T20:31:00.017-05:00

MYLO / The Juan Maclean

I heart new music! When I heard about the release of Mylo's new single "I'm Back" I went searching. What I found was pretty much what I expected. Solid gold. BBC Radio One premiered the song under the enclosing statement Mylo used, which was, "I'm Back." As a result the mix took on this name. Therefore, Mylo's "I'm Back," may actually be entitled something completely different. Either way, this new piece from Mylo is sick. If you like what you hear check out Otto's Journey and Drop the Pressure on Hype Machine.

Im Back (New Single/Radio Rip) - Mylo

Now that I have that out of my head. I get to talk about The Juan Maclean. Representing New York he's currently on tour in Europe. His music is real chill. Marcus Worgull capitalized on his stuff by mixing the track "Simple Life." In addition, I've posted some of The Juan Maclean's own stuff. Check out "Give Me Every Little Thing." It's softer yet offers a heavy bass that can't keep you still. Simply put, it's kickass.

Simple Life (Marcus Worgull Remix) - Juan MacLean

Give Me Every Little Thing - The Juan Maclean

2009-01-28T00:30:00.017-05:00

Kanye West Remixes

You can hate on Kanye West all you want but his resume speaks for itself. At age 30, he is a ten-time Grammy Award winning rapper, singer and record producer. Since beginning his career, Kanye has received 36 awards amongst 114 nominations. In 2008 he released his fourth album in five years. Prior to going solo, Kanye gained fame by producing for Roc-A-Fella Records creating hit singles for Alicia Keys, Ludacris, and Janet Jackson. His work on Jay-Z's phonomenol album, The Blueprint catapulted him into stardom. In 2007 Kanye West's album Graduation defeated the much hyped 50 Cent's Curtis in CD sales. When both albums released on the same day, a confident 50 cent publicly announced that he would retire if West outsold him in first-week sales. Kanye West won selling 957,000 units to 50's 691,000 units causing a media frenzy. So needless to say... Kanye can hold his own.

Flashing Lights (Diplo Remix) - Kanye West

Diplo is also pretty damn cool. From what I see on their myspace, videos included, is that they know how to put on a show. But stage performance isn't everything. To prove it, and coincidentally staying with the theme, they have released a Kanye West remix to "Flashing Lights." I have to have to give props to erger for hooking me on this one. I think it's brilliant!

2009-01-25T15:37:00.014-05:00

The New Music: January, wk 4

The past week I have been jiving to some really retro tunes in preparation for a local 90s event this coming 30th. Being in the mood I thought I should freshen up the old retro playlist. Scavenging the world wide web for new tunes, I found a really cool twist on Ace of Base's classic 90s song "All That She Wants."

All That She Wants (Messkid Skull&Bones Remix) - Ace Of Base

Next is a classy mix of ZZZ by the Bag Raiders. It has become one of my new favourites to toss on during some homework or even just to kill some silent air. The piano in the song really accompanies the mix well. I think its a gem, which isn't bad being only a few weeks into '09.

Lion (Bag Raiders Remix) - ZZZ

An added bonus:

Earlier this month, we showcased The Twelves remix to Groove Armada's "Drop The Tough" released by Bacardi B-Live Share (see post for details). B-Live Share has released the Van She rendition of "Drop The Tough," and although it may not be The Twelves remix, it still offers a unique vibe to a stellar track.

Drop The Tough (Van She Remix) - Groove Armada

2009-01-21T17:18:00.015-05:00

NOTORIOUS

Last night some of the guys got together, smoked a j, and watched the movie Notorious. For those of you who have lived under a rock the last 3 months, it's the new Hollywood film documenting the rise and fall of Christopher Wallace aka Biggie Smalls. The film did an excellent job portraying the east/west coast rap "war" that dominated much of the mid 90's. However, some of the acting choices for Biggie's affiliates within the movie were, in my opinion, poorly chosen. (movie = 7/10)

That being said, I can't hate on the movie too much because it provided an ample opportunity to showcase Ratatat's remix to "Party and Bullshit." It's an interesting twist on an already golden track. With Biggie on my mind I decided to include some throwbacks as well. I can't believe fifteen years have gone by since some of these first came out...

Notorious B.I.G. - Party & Bullshit - Ratatat

Juicy - The Notorious B.I.G.

Big Poppa - The Notorious B.I.G.

R.I.P. Christopher Wallace (May 21, 1972 – March 9, 1997)

2009-01-19T19:07:00.025-05:00

Cut Copy - So Cosmic

So back in the day, or at least it seems that way now, Cut Copy, Melbourne, Australia's golden boys, representing Modular recordings (so hot right now), dropped their infamous mix named so cosmic. The mix was released well before their chart and dance floor smashing new album, In Ghost Colours and on it were some truly inspiring and refreshing beats, I won't get into all of them with you, you can just visit their blog or their my space page and show some love.

First off is Mr. Lifelike and if you don't already now the name, their is no time like the present. Hailing from the Strasbourg, Alsace, France, Laurent Heinrich has been droppin' the goods for a little while now, and cut copy love and so should we. This track is an instant classic, it has that vibe of a song that has been alive in your ears for what seems like since forever, if that makes any sense, and it invokes, upon listening very nostalgic feelings of daft punk, Thomas Bangalter, Stardust, Dj Falcon, Kris Menace and Alan Braxe, among others, in short: a musical journey, french style.

Lifelike - So Electric

Next up is a true disco funk classic from the lovely land of new york electro and indie, DFA. Holy Ghost! has to be one of the most talked about-least known groups of the last two years. The fact that they have a plethora of quality remixes floating around the net is testament to that, and their few known singles, of which I have only one, and it is coincidentally found on the same cut copy mix tape. If my sources are correct this track could have been dropped as early as 2007, in which case its hype only truly emerged throughout the next year, and now the people want more from Holy Ghost! Their upcoming album (fingers crossed) may be one of the most anticipated albums in this music genre of 2009, no lie. so enough is enough and here is the dopeness:

Hold On - HOLY GHOST!

Number three this eve, is an awesome remix by fellow aussies and label mates Knightlife. The track "So Haunted", by Cut Copy, truly has two distinct and unique styles and sections that are blended together, the first is a darker, more post-punkish type of indie electro, where the vocals are bright and somewhat uplifting and the beats are very drab and melancholy. In the second part the mood switches: the vocals turn almost nostalgic and reminiscent in a distant way, but they are overtaken by an amazing synth breakdown that totally entrances you and is so uplifting its contagious. This remix, which I believe is not the same as the one featured on the so cosmic mix, is equally as enjoyable and achieves the same goal, an extension of the second part of the original "So Haunted" track. The wow factor on this one is pretty high, be careful...

So Haunted (Knightlife Sun-Soaked Reprise Remix) - Cut Copy

Lucky number four... Sticking to the theme of the mix, we have a collabo remix with cut copy and lifelike, and the best part is that the track they remix is "Never Forget" by mother fuckin' Fleetwood Mac. Know if your unfamiliar with the gorgeous Stevie Nicks and the boys of Fleetwood Mac, do yourself a favour and get educated. This song has been giving me shivers since the day I first heard it two years ago, mad thanks to Cut Copy, Lifelike and Fleetwood Mac. True Love.

Fleetwood Mac - Never Forget (Cut Copy and Lifelike Remix)

Cinque (Five): Now I must apologize because I know very little about the group who did the original to this track Like Whoa! except that they are fellow Sydney 'siders with Knightlife and this track was originally released as 12" on Bang Gang Records, who are geniuses by the way, check them out as well. So this remix is also not on the So Cosmic mix, but let me just say that inside sources tell me that Cut Copy has faith in Knightlife, 'nough said. Here we are:

Oh I Like (Knightlife Remix) - Like Whoa!

Last but surely not least is fellow Sydney 'siders the Bag Raiders. These guys are killin' it right now with there new single that just dropped in the new year. This track featured on the So Cosmic mix as the post suggests, and it is pure goodness, a little harder and dirtier but definite disco dance floor action ( i love alliterations), that will have you shakin' your hips and feelin' the vibe of liquid courage like never before.

As a side note, for those that grew up watching City Tv (local greater Toronto Area basic cable channel) they had a fashion news show, appropriately called Fashion Television, which I don't know much about other than it has an amazing theme song, but I have no idea who its by. Anyways, this next track sounds a little like the theme song from that show. So yeah, strange, but its all good. Here is the dope shit:

Nil By Mouth (Knightlife Remix) - Bag Raiders

Thanks goes out to cut copy of course, as mentioned before hit the myspace, give love, and for those in the area, they're comin' to Circa in Toronto on March 20th, if your around, come on down, cuz its gunna be a guaranteed phenomenal night. And for those haters, those who think that I may be on Cut Copy's balls, or perhaps just the whole aussie electro scene, well what do you want me to say, all i got is love to give, and yeah, I am guilty as charged. For those that share the love, my heart goes out to you.
Peace and love.

2009-01-19T19:06:00.016-05:00

Rainbow Arabia

Tribal Electro! How cool is that! To all those who may not be as psyched as I am, the track will do the talking. Rainbow Arabia is both unique and stellar. The group uses a combination of traditional instruments and sounds from both types of music genres to create a powerful tribal-electronic quagmire. In the end, the sound is...so foreign, yet so good. The track "Omar K" is a great example of this. We all need some strange Tribal Electro lovin' in our lives

Omar K - Rainbow Arabia

2009-01-19T11:05:00.013-05:00

The New Music: January, wk. 3

2009 is still early. As new styles and trends will no doubt change and modify the scene over the course of the next year, this section will showcase some of the new weekly favourites that emerge. Already a little behind being in week 3, here are a few new tracks that made an impact over the last week.

Bacardi B-Live Share is a new platform for downloading and sharing music. The platform launches on January 20th including the new release of some brand new remixes from Groove Armada. A release of The Twelves remix to "Drop The Tough" has already been leaked. Based on this track the remaining songs set to be released look very promising. As well, Van She is rumoured to have made contributions to the project.

Drop The Tough [The Twelves B-LIVE Remix] - Groove Armada

sqzmlmns (pronounced 'squeeze my lemons') is a brand new duo hailing from Mexico, emerging from the music scene of San Diego where they should continue to get noticed. I could ramble about how much I enjoy this new track Oakland from saul q and kid wonder but it should do the talking for me. Check their MySpace page for more songs and info.

Oakland - sqzmlmns

2009-01-18T19:42:00.016-05:00

Miami Horror!

new miami horror, so fresh!

Benjamin Vanguarde, the 21 year-old writer/producer for Miami Horror, has made an incredible impact in the industry this past year. "Music is my life" says Vanguarde in an interview with 0hhcr4pp. "My music is all about creating lasing feeling for its listeners, I think of myself as a composer in which I can create something from anything I feel has a certain power, potential or emotion to it whether it is a chord progression/melody... etc played by me or not it is all about making something special and memorable." With influences from Prince, Supertramp, Fleetwood Mac, and Abba, Miami Horrors provides an uplifting sound that screams retro 80's vibe. Vanguarde delivers on his message, and his music. Songs such as "Make You Mine" and "Don't Be On With Her" are so sick and should be checked out immediately! The Hype Machine will provide for a solid start.

Embrace ft. Ladyhawke (Fred Falke & Miami Horror remix) - Pnau

And a proper dance floor banger, we had posted the instrumental version a couple days ago, but lets be honest with each other, have a listen and tell me the vocals don't bring the noise, which is a great thing, seriously though, let me quote "on the dance floor is where I'll provide/ shake our hips as we collide"... wow. Anyways, I digress, have a listen and judge for yourself, and if by chance you find yourself shivering with joy and dancing by yourself, find comfort in the fact that while at that moment you may by yourself but exactly the same emotions are being shared across digital borders. mad love.

Make You Mine - Miami Horror

2009-01-18T12:56:00.011-05:00

Treasure Fingers

Treasure Fingers produce indie and electro beats that are remixed like no other. In September 2008, Scion A/V released a sampler of the newly hyped Fool’s Gold Remixed EP album full of exclusive remixes from Fool's Gold Records (TF's label). The album was to accompany the Scion/Fool’s Gold tour which kicked off in late October 2008. If you want a copy of the album you'll have to hit up eBay or go searching the world wide web. The album had some killer bangers on it including the new remix of Big Gipp's "Hot."

The journey of Treasure Fingers started for me with the release of their mixtape from July 2007 entitled “40 Minutes in the Champagne Room.” I recommend taking a serious look at it if you haven't heard it already. Catchy and vibrant, TF remixes are always bumpin'.

Tortoise (Treasure Fingers Remix) - One Hand Loves The Other

Negative Thinking (Treasure Fingers Remix) - The Death Set

2009-01-17T20:24:00.008-05:00

Otto's Golden Journey

I like to give recognition when it's due and erger hooked me on this track hard. Otto's Golden Journey (Andy Webb's Dreamy Blend) is a great melodic mix with soothing synth and catchy rhythms. It filled the silent moments driving throughout Ottawa tonight to get dinner with the guys. Nothing crazy- just Harv's, but I'm not sure which tasted sweeter- the burger, or the song. As a result this song came back on my radar when I hit the house. With my heavy bias in mind, I would arguably say that this deserves to be in the 'best of '08' class. Kudos to erger for introducing it, but props to Webb for creating it.

Ottos Golden Journey (Andy Webb`s Dreamy Blend) - The Whitest Boy Alive & Fred Falke vs Mylo vs Cut Copy

2009-01-17T11:28:00.013-05:00

Matt Hughes

We're going to need to do a lot of work to catch everyone up in the next few days. But in the meantime, I thought I would start off right by showcasing Matt Hughes. First off, Matt Hughes is awesome. Over the past year, Hughes has released a collection of great remixes that have flooded my favourites list. He has an incredible spacey and uplifting vibe that is perfect anywhere. Included are three songs everyone needs to know. Check them out. Hopefully you dig them like we do.

Ride (Matt Hughes Remix) - Heavinz

Cant Talk Now - Matt Hughes