As Bella Ursa Recorginds’s fourth season sets its course, listeners are in for an otherworldly treat with the release of ‘Nebula Aranea #3.’ The Italian collective has once again embarked on their interstellar odyssey, delving deep into the mesmerizing intricacies of the Aranea Nebula. This sonic voyage, which intertwines elements of EBM and Wave music, is a testament to the collective’s unrelenting passion for the genre and their constant pursuit of uncharted musical territories.

‘Nebula Aranea #3’ offers a captivating auditory journey, spanning a generous 90 minutes, all contained on a beloved analog cassette tape. Featuring stunning UV-printed artwork courtesy of Ursa MVP Bill Noir, this release will also be available on digital platforms, ensuring that enthusiasts of electronic soundscapes worldwide can partake in the cosmic fervor that has driven Bella Ursa for the past three years. Scheduled for release on October 18, 2023, under Bella Ursa Recordings, this transcendent sonic tapestry promises to be a musical odyssey like no other. So, prepare to be carried away into the ethereal darkness of the Aranea Nebula and embark on a celestial voyage of sound and discovery.

Eskimo Recordings proudly presents the much-anticipated second edition of “Next Wave Acid Punx,” a compilation meticulously crafted by Berlin-based musician and DJ Luca Venezia, better known as Curses. This release is a monumental dive into the enigmatic realms of club music’s darker side. With an impressive offering that spans three CDs and three 2LPs, “Next Wave Acid Punx DEUX” boasts an astounding 49 tracks. It seamlessly connects the dots between the pioneers of early industrial music, such as Throbbing Gristle, the legends of EBM like Nitzer Ebb, and the experimental sounds of Malcolm McLaren and Big Audio Dynamite. The compilation also introduces us to today’s most thrilling and innovative artists, including Boy Harsher, Nuovo Testamento, and Years of Denial.

The first installment of “Next Wave Acid Punx” was a personal voyage for Luca, inspired by the lockdown, where he delved into his record collection to unearth the threads that wove through the music shaping his life. However, “DEUX” takes that exploration to another level, celebrating the liberation of this music onto the global stage. It captures the electrifying essence of live performances, the ambiance of smoke-filled, strobe-lit clubs where these beats come to life, and the artists who bring these stages to life.

But the journey doesn’t end with the compilation. Luca’s insightful vision continues with an exclusive track for this release – “Formidable Truths” by Andi vs Randolph & Mortimer. These talented artists, known for their split EP in 2021 on the Polish label Macanica, have reunited to deliver an unparalleled musical experience. “Formidable Truths” draws its inspiration from the New Beat and EBM greats, resulting in a relentless dancefloor masterpiece. The track boasts jackhammer kick drums, precision-gated snares, an infectious synth riff that ingrains itself into your psyche, and the kind of spoken word samples that would make any Wax Trax release proud. It’s a sonic journey guaranteed to set dancefloors from Chicago to Berlin ablaze.

Stay tuned for the release on October 20, 2023, as we embark on this remarkable expedition into the heart of underground club music.

Prepare your ears for a musical revolution as Mutant Modality, a groundbreaking platform and music label, makes its grand entrance onto the scene. This debut compilation, features 8 tracks that traverse the sonic spectrum, from lustful EBM to mind-bending techno, and from noise-infused Ambient to deadly Industrial. Influenced by our contemporary world, Mutant Modality’s mission goes beyond music, fostering a sense of community among experimental and dancefloor artists who dare to push the boundaries.

One of the standout tracks from this release is “Lesser Things” by 2+2=5, a sonic masterpiece that defies conventions and invites you to explore the extraordinary. We invite you to immerse yourself in this avant-garde musical journey and experience the future of sound. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be among the first to hear it—check out “Lesser Things” on SoundCloud.

Welcome to The Forgotten Series, episode 304th. Join us as we explore a captivating selection of Drum & Bass, IDM, and breaks curated by the talented artist, Antagonist, hailing from Manchester, UK. Antagonist’s musical journey traces back to his teenage years, starting with pirate radio in 2004 and transitioning to the club circuit in 2009. Over time, he’s honed his craft and found his niche in the darker, cinematic side of electronic music.

With a growing list of releases on esteemed labels like R&S Records, Dispatch Recordings, Samurai Music, and his own Discipline imprint, Antagonist continues to push the boundaries of Drum & Bass and IDM. His music has even garnered recognition beyond the usual circuit, with support from influential figures like DJ Shadow on BBC Radio 6.

In addition to his musical endeavors, Antagonist played a pivotal role in the Manchester-based ‘Pandemik’ club event from 2009 to 2015, drawing inspiration from techno, Drum & Bass, and ambient genres, carving his unique route into the scene.

So, dear listeners, get ready to immerse yourselves in Antagonist’s sonic world. Tune in, enjoy the sounds, and be sure to share this episode with fellow music enthusiasts to embark on this unforgettable journey together.

Estonian experimentalists, Forgotten Sunrise, make a triumphant comeback with their long-awaited album, “elu,” their first full-length release in a decade. With a career spanning over 31 years, the band has fearlessly explored the fusion of diverse musical genres, ranging from dark electro to death metal. They’ve coined their unique style as “outsider industrial” or ‘outdustrial.’

Out on the Brooklyn-based label Ohm Resistance, “elu” is the band’s fourth studio album, serving as the middle chapter in their upcoming trilogy, “Hallelujah!” This eight-track installment distinguishes itself with its raw post-industrial sound, crafting an atmosphere of dark horror, driven by pulsating rhythms and a blend of growling vocals juxtaposed with an ethereal female voice.

Forgotten Sunrise, led by founder Anders Melts, has weathered numerous lineup changes throughout their journey. Notably, “elu” introduces their current trio formation, including Kadri Sammel (also known as Bedless Bones) and Jaan Pullerits, aka Suva, into the mix, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in their sonic evolution.

Colombian producer Faunes Efe, better known as Filmmaker, has carved a distinct niche in the electronic music landscape, earning recognition as one of the most prolific and vital artists within the EBM, Industrial, Synth-wave, and Electro community. His music possesses a unique allure, weaving dystopian electronics into a seductive darkness that has captured the hearts of devoted followers.

With a discography boasting over 20 records in a mere five-year span, Filmmaker continues his creative journey with “Machinations,” a captivating mini-album featuring seven tracks. This sonic adventure melds the realms of Electroclash and Minimal Synth, forming a captivating narrative through prominent square waves, robotic beats, and detuned atmospheres, primarily utilizing two instruments: a Syntakt and a processed guitar.

In this exclusive interview, Filmmaker delves into the fusion of his background in filmmaking with his musical pursuits, his early experiences in electronic music production, the creative genesis of “Machinations,” and what listeners can anticipate within the sonic landscape of this mesmerizing album. He also shares insights into upcoming projects and the diverse musical endeavors that lie ahead, including the launch of his own netlabels, RECS and Founts.

Join us on this sonic journey as we explore the mind of Filmmaker and the artistic tapestry he weaves through sound and vision.

Do you find any overlap or synergy between your work in visual storytelling and music production? How does your background in filmmaking influence your music?

I’ve barely worked in audio-visual stuff to be honest, most of my official music videos were originally fan-made but I hope maybe in some future I get involved more with filming as I’m formally a professional cameraman but never did that job after graduation. At the moment the only synergy I’ve found has been licensing for filmmakers that wanted to include my tracks on their movies. Sometimes I get asked “where are the films?” then I clarify that the moniker is an allusion, as many other music producers/bands with profession names that they actually don’t do. However my music which has been almost instrumental only, kind of resembles the imaginary of an original soundtrack for a film.

You’ve been described as one of the most prolific producers in recent years. Could you take us back to the beginning of your musical journey? What initially drew you to electronic music, and how did you make your first foray into production?

I was playing bass and guitar in Hardcore and Metal bands but I just got tired of depending on others to play and release music, it’s difficult to coordinate people that don’t have the same willpower and convictions that you. Then I started to record electronic music, started with experimental stuff, passing through Witch-house, Leftfield House, Techno and Ambient. At that beginning, I recorded all with software/apps, then gradually I moved to hardware and other music styles at the same time.

Your upcoming mini-album, “Machinations,” is generating a lot of excitement. Can you share some insights into the creative process and inspiration behind this project, especially the decision to blend Electroclash and Minimal Synth elements?

It started with my side project Psychick Wound, a more minimalistic approach which I released on the now discontinued Body Musick label. I was sequencing ideas for a new album when I reached something that was aiming more at the raw and hard-hitting sound of Filmmaker. Having so many iterations in electronic music makes it challenging to separate things, because “happy accidents” happen then the initial thing ends differently. In this case it was kind of a serendipity find, I shaped that minimal synth from Psychick Wound into a new Filmmaker that has essence of previous work however it’s still new sounding in the growing catalogue.

“Machinations” features seven unique tracks. Could you take us through the journey of the album and what listeners can expect in terms of the sonic landscape it explores?

Each side of the record develops in energetic and mechanical rhythms with melodies that are connected between tracks in a colorful composition that resembles the early Filmmaker stuff that had similar character of a retro videogame soundtrack, there’s also downtempo tracks that create a type of interlude between the stomping songs. As previous releases, I craft the album flow to be story-like but at the same time to be separate tracks that can be mixed in a longer piece like a DJ mix.

The use of Syntakt and a processed guitar as the main instruments for this album is intriguing. Can you elaborate on how these instruments shaped the sound and atmosphere of “Machinations”?

As all tracks were recorded with these instruments, it generates an uniform connection between the sounds in the tracks. Lots of metallic tones, FM synthesis and the mix of analogue and digital oscillators delivers that machine-made vibe then the guitar layering adds some ‘human touch’ and complements the palette of elements in the result. This process is also notable in other Filmmaker albums like ‘The Love Market’, ‘Wetwork’ and ‘Drainvoid’. These LPs, just like Machinations, were recorded live on cassette , which compresses and gives color to the mixdown. This also adds rawness to the compositions as its all performed in one take then gets mastered with little to no edition.

The album is set to be released via Wave Tension Records. Can you tell us about your collaboration with the label and how they have contributed to the realization of this project?

I knew about Wave Tension because of Minimal Synth/EBM artist Raderkraft, I followed it then my friend Glaring (who previously released my third album ‘Nocturnal’ on tape on her label) released an album with Wave Tension too. I had the opportunity to meet the label head Marc in The Netherlands, we connected because we met at an event with this kind of music. Afterwards we met multiple times to discuss this release, he was very open-minded to my style so gave me the freedom to contribute with this record as intended and after sorting all details  it is finally coming out. In general I feel a link with Dutch electronic music as I’ve worked with other labels and collectives there and it honors me to join this Eindhoven-based imprint with something that fits well in their catalogue.

Can you give us a glimpse into your upcoming projects and creative endeavors after the release of this album? Are there any specific directions or experiments you’re excited to explore in your future musical endeavors?

As Body Musick ended, I’m working on netlabels for self-releasing new aliases and different styles and aesthetics. One label for the modern and futuristic tracks is RECS and the other one is Founts which is yet to be released and will have old school and lo-fi dance music. For Filmmaker, there’s also plenty releases coming, it will have new mutations on Electro and Breakbeat. This is something that may also take form in a future release on Wave Tension Records as we both enjoy the Big Beat movement and it would be interesting to make a kind

In a musical landscape that often favors conformity, VC-118A’s latest offering, “Waves Of Change,” stands as a testament to the power of artistic evolution. Following the acclaimed “Spiritual Machines” album, this LP masterfully continues to push boundaries with its signature crooked machine rhythms.

Samuel van Dijk, the creative force behind VC-118A, takes listeners on an immersive journey through a tapestry of analog and digital processes. Tracks like ‘The Deep,’ ‘Stream,’ and ‘Replace Image’ serve as sonic metaphors for the ever-shifting state of the universe, while ‘Heat,’ ‘Club,’ and ‘Elektri’ deliver metronomic precision akin to the ceaseless march of time.

‘Motherboard,’ a standout track, offers an extended immersion into a world of subtly vivid soundscapes, driven by elegant and probing drums. The inclusion of sampled voices from van Dijk’s parents adds a deeply personal touch to the album, harking back to their days as sound artists in the mid-80s.

“‘Waves of Change’ is more than an album; it’s a timestamp of my musical journey, an exploration of downtempo rhythms, and an invitation to ponder the nature of change itself,” reflects VC-118A.

Known for crafting immersive, atmospheric music that blends dub, ambient, and experimental elements, van Dijk has once again showcased his mastery of the craft. With ‘Waves Of Change,’ he propels his sound into uncharted downtempo and experimental territories, inviting us all to contemplate the transformative forces that shape our lives.

As “Waves Of Change” hits the airwaves via Delsin on September 22, 2023, it’s clear that VC-118A’s sonic voyage is an indispensable addition to the evolving landscape of electronic music.

The “End of Spirit” VA album, featuring contributions from Kotec, G.xist, Comarobot, and NX1, is a remarkable exploration of techno that delves deep into the realms of emotion, specifically drawing inspiration from the somber tones of sadness. This collaborative effort showcases a diverse range of styles and approaches within the techno genre, all united by a common theme of melancholy.

Each artist on this compilation brings their unique perspective to the table, resulting in a rich tapestry of soundscapes that convey the depth of human emotion. Kotec, G.xist, Comarobot, and NX1 skillfully craft tracks that not only resonate with listeners on an intellectual level but also evoke a profound emotional response. Their ability to translate complex feelings into electronic music is a testament to their artistry.

One of the standout features of “End of Spirit” is the remix track by NX1, where they reimagine one of Comarobot’s compositions. This addition adds an intriguing layer to the album, demonstrating how artists within the techno community can reinterpret and breathe new life into each other’s work, further enhancing the overall listening experience.

Overall, “End of Spirit” is a captivating journey through the melancholic side of techno. It serves as a reminder that electronic music is not just about beats and rhythms but can also be a potent medium for expressing and exploring complex emotions. This album is a must-listen for techno enthusiasts and anyone seeking a profound sonic experience that goes beyond the surface of the dancefloor.

NX1, the Barcelona-based duo composed of Surit and Samot. Since their inception in 2011, NX1 has crafted a distinctive blend of classic techno and contemporary sound design, earning them global recognition in the club circuit. Their live performances seamlessly fuse diverse styles, creating raw, emotive rhythms while addressing contemporary challenges.

Today, we’re thrilled to take you on a journey into the immersive world of NX1 as they present an exclusive club music mix that perfectly encapsulates their signature style, including tracks from their own discography and their latest album.

Discover the insights and inspirations that fuel NX1’s sonic journey in our exclusive interview – click here to dive in!

Check out our podcast on SoundCloud, Episode 303 is now live!