Tracklist

A1. Playin’
A2. Bodies
B1. Feel This
B2. Call Of The Void

Partiboi69 strikes poses, chords and hot irons. Australia’s spiciest export since INXS’s front man is a sensation on many (meta-)levels. Musically, aesthetically and hedonistically exhilarating, the man’s man shows his sensitive side on Running Back. Four tracks answer the Call of the Void with a showcase of sounds and moods that are as much informed by the rules of old school dance music (Bodies) as they draw inspiration from classic rave closing tracks (Playin’), plangent pop (Feel This) and a former new romantics band that just discovered house music pre-internet (Call of the Void): surprisingly serious and simultaneously not-so-serious. Composed and executed with serious songwriting skills and an uncanny feel for the aural world of Running Back Records. A mutual pleasure, indeed.

Short: Partiboi69 strikes poses, chords and hot irons. Showing his sensitive side for Running Back with four tracks that are as much informed by the rules of old school dance music (Bodies) as they draw inspiration from classic rave closing tracks (Playin’), plangent pop (Feel This) and a former new romantics band that just discovered house music pre-internet (Call of the Void). A sensation on many meta-)levels and a mutual pleasure, indeed.




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Tracklisting:
1. (A1) JOSS – Assessing (DE-Q20-24-00001)
2. (A2) Emanuel Satie – When I First Met You (I Knew You Were The One) (DE-Q20-24-00002)
3. (B1) Denis Horvat & Skarn – Triii (DE-Q20-24-00003)
4. (B2) Aöcram x Ramsey Neville – Brooklyn Structure (DE-Q20-24-00004)
5. (C1) Alex Bau – Antidot (DE-Q20-24-00005)
6. (C2) Redshape – Ghost Story (DE-Q20-24-00006)
7. (D1) Raxon – Year Zero (DE-Q20-24-00007)
8. (D2) Harald Björk – Aluco (DE-Q20-24-00008)

Cocoon Recordings presents: Dots And Pearls 8
This year's Dots And Pearls once again impresses with its broad spectrum. From minimalistic grooves and melodic house to dark techno and even EBM influences back to playful tunes for the heart. The musicality of this long-player is a beautiful showcase of the depths and expanses to be discovered in the Cocoon Recordings universe.
Kyivian producer JOSS breaks the first ground with "Assessing". A sweet opener that immediately reveals its emotional but happy core. As the song progresses, it gradually immerses you in its world of smooth and phasing string pads. The rhythm groove, while fluffy, also manages to create a sense of intensity that keeps the listener engaged throughout. Emanuel Satie joins with a groovy tom rhythm complemented by a heavenly and angelic choir that adds a touch of ethereal beauty to the composition. This combination creates a sense of enchantment as if being transported to a place where love reigns supreme. "When I First Met You (I Knew You Were The One)" is undeniably a love
song, capturing the essence of affection and infatuation. A musical message delivered with sincerity and genuine emotion that paints a heartfelt picture of a love that is destined and undeniable. Denis Horvat and Skarn have joined forces to create an electrifying track titled "Triii" that ventures into a realm of edginess and artistry. Metallic bells add a haunting and mysterious layer to the sound, while
the stripped-down beats keep the rhythmic foundation strong, perfectly complementing the edgy vibes. One of the most distinctive features is the inclusion of Slavic vocals, which bring an ethereal and otherworldly dimension to the track. When combined with the dwelling effect sounds, these vocals create an enchanting and almost hypnotic effect, further enhancing the song's allure. Each sound is
meticulously placed, creating a well-defined sonic landscape that showcases the artists' attention to detail and creative vision.
The following collaboration between AÖCRAM and Ramsey Neville in their track "Brooklyn Structure" takes us through the depths of NYC's compressed techno. Sequences morph throughout the track's progression, seamlessly transitioning between layers of sound and adding a sense of intrigue to the overall arrangement. Driving claps that pepper the track play a crucial role in propelling the momentum forward, further intensifying the infectious energy that permeates. "Antidot" is an electrifying peak-time thriller by Alex Bau, a monstrous techno track that commands attention and ignites the dance floor with its wicked bassline and explosive energy. This relentless and formidable low-end presence sets
the tone for the entire track. The use of FM synth percussions adds a unique touch to the rhythm, creating layers of complexity, and contributing to the acceleration. Banging snare drums hit with force and precision, driving the rhythm forward without any mercy, although the 909 rimshot pattern adds a classic touch.
As we float on to the third part of the compilation, Redshape’s "Ghost Story" cuts the surface. Let’s delve into a realm of tales and mysteries through mesmerizing and enthralling soundscapes. The synth melody tells a captivating story, creating a narrative that unravels like a spheric saga while an EBM-like bassline serves as a pulsating and energetic guide, injecting a dose of liveliness. Despite its haunting undertones, "Ghost Story" manages to maintain an untroubled vibe, striking a balance between a mysterious ambiance and a lively spirit. "Year Zero" blends elements of the characteristic Raxon sound with a fresh and futuristic twist, resulting in an unusual and excellent addition to his discography. One of the notable aspects is the raw bassline that undulates up and down throughout the track, gently combined with some soft percussion with lots of delay, making it a perfect track for kick-off. His contribution undoubtedly explores new sonic territories for Raxon. It stands out as an unusual and excellent addition to his repertoire. Harald Björk rings down the curtain on Dots And Pearls 8. From the very beginning, "Aluco" reveals an atmosphere shrouded in darkness, inviting
listeners to embark on a hero's journey. Intricate beats pulsate with a magnetic allure, drawing us into the heart of the music. The track's somber aura creates a tantalizing sense of anticipation, hinting at something grand waiting just beyond the shadows. But as the piece unfolds, Björk's expert composition takes us through a series of transitions that elevate the mood from mysterious darkness to soaring heroism. The track gradually shifts gears, as if the protagonist of the story has discovered a newfound strength and determination. A theatrical synthesizer melody manifests as the guiding force amidst the shifting. It swells and transforms, it becomes a beacon of hope and inspiration. The beat evolves and the melodic motif gracefully intertwines, building up an empowering energy that beckons the listener into a triumphant ascent, enveloping us in a world that feels simultaneously familiar and otherworldly.
As we reach the final moment, we are rewarded with the perfect closing. The track finds resolution, leaving a lasting impact, and ensuring that we culminate in a satisfying and memorable conclusion.
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Tracklist
A1 Eingang
A2 Veddel Braav
A3 Perluv

B1 Wuzzelbud FF
B2 Tisma

C1 Provol Eto
C2 Maiowu

D1 Wabb Bodun
D2 Ausgang

External assessment vs. self-conception by Robag Wruhme: "People always think, I'm that serene and quiet guy, but actually I'm quite a noisemaker." Could be that the majority of the material he put out in recent years, most notably the "Thora Vukk" album, led to the overall apprehension of Robag being the virtuoso of everything subtle, enigmatic and tenderly melodic. Well, that's far from being a misconception, but still just one side of the coin. The other side is embossed with his most current productions, consolidated to a double EP, captioned with the enchanting name "Wuzzelbud FF".

Wait a second ... "Wuzzelbud"? Devoted fans will instantly prick up their ears. We've heard that before. Back in 2004 Robag Wruhme released his first longplayer named "Wuzzelbud 'KK'". As there's no such scenario Robag might be running out of stream-of-consciousness turned nonsense titles for his music, this must be a vocabulary intersection linking the early days of his career with its status quo. And it is. Wruhme presents "Wuzzelbud FF" as the stylistic follow-up to his debut album, showcasing a sound he commits has been neglected for too long. Wruhme cuts to the chase: "I wanted to put out some straightforward music for the dancefloor, something for the primetime. Well, for the primetime of my sets, at least."

And that agenda is written all over most of this double EP's material. Not so much over the tongue in cheek intro or some of its interludes. But "Veddel Bav" as the first centre-piece of this collection sets the pace already. Don't fall for Wruhme's signature artistry of evoking groove out of micro-sampling while this track is building up. It'll be bulldozed by a bass heavy kick and off-beat hi-hat-lashes soon enough. An insanely well balanced composition of accurately placed details and thumping massiveness, that is.
A layout that's elaborated even further on the title track you'll find opening the B-side. In-field recorded patterns, courageous delay-implementation, a take no prisoners mentality when it comes to prep this for the peaktime, a super simple yet super effective bassline (or rather -note), a buzzing and twanging percussive overload bound to what's usually known as 'a banger'.
Get some rest with "Tisma", a rather spaced out jam and then prepare to be shaken thoroughly by "Provol Eto", the cowbell decorated, synthbass fueled epitome of heaviness in this set of tunes. Safe to say, this adds to the most functional and relentless material, Wruhme has ever written.
No breathing pause granted, as "Maiowu" speeds up to utter D'n'B frenzy or as Wruhme himself describes it to a "sounddesign that's cut from rhythm" - a recourse to his mid 90ies rule denying, almost anarchic approach to production.
The final re-introduction of a straight kick then opens side D. "Wabb Bodun" - that's yet another no-frills, engine-room located stomper, inspirited and strengthened by rhythmic shifts and crisp tweaking alone. Well, and a sneezer. An in-the-red powerhouse that calls for an alleviation like the ambient farewell kiss "Ausgang". An assembly of textures that sets a peaceful conclusion to an energetic and mostly high-revving journey


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Tracklist:
(1) Raxon – Robotalia (DE-Q20-23-00013)
(2) Raxon – Kryptonite (DE-Q20-23-00014)

Release Info:
Next up is an overdue reunion with a familiar face. After his outstanding contribution to Cocoon Compilation S and his first solo EP on Cocoon Recordings, Raxon is back with a more than equally fascinating sound. The Egyptian-born and now Barcelona-based artist is back on it again, delivering two tracks that will take you on a journey through the depths of robotic soundscapes.
Intricate beats, hypnotic synthesizer melodies, deep bassline grooves, and distinctive EFX sounds create Raxon’s very special signature sound.

Straight drum programming paired with chirping percussions takes us away to embark on a travel through space and time while distinctive claps poke through a futuristic nebula of floating and shifting sequences. The twisted melody of “Robotalia” carries us to a parallel dimension of machine sound and if you listen closely, you can hear the robots’ screwing and sawing. Warping bleeps and mechanical effects complete the robotic feeling. Raxon’s understanding of structures and architectural abilities are reflected through the arrangement, slowly increasing to ecstasy.

“Kryptonite” scores with alien soundscapes. Stuttering vocals are the questions, while futuristic and dramatic chord stabs are the direct answer. A straight, radiant sound appears as an electronic trombone from outer space, offensively supporting the driving bassline. The symbiotic interplay between the euphoric synthesizer hook line and the relentless beat with pushing sharp hi-hats visualize powerful images in one's mind's eye. Suddenly the beat stagnates and results in a morphing break going head over heels developing a start-stop pitch effect that not only builds up tremendous tension but also bears an increased risk of melting your brain. We just love tape delay!



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Tracklist

A1. Kosmische Conga
A2. Echopet
B1. Minehead
B2. Carinacid

Re-Dial 303.

The follow-up to the first Acid Sampler is now in the hands of a single artist. Space Dimension Controller does Running Back the honor to leave his fingerprints on the (usually) silver box - and it’s a match made in heaven. The Irish man’s music is mostly a nod to the subtle and more delicate ramifications of electronic music. His Acid Sampler is no exception. Most of the EP presents itself as an ode to the brain dance vibe of acid house rooted music. While leaving out the harder and faster styles of the genre, SDC manages to pour his heart and soul as a producer into these four charming tracks.

Kosmische Conga works as the leader of the pack and pirouettes with memorable hooks, synthesizer swells and descant acid lines. Echopet introverts the whole concept, while Minehead peaks with it. Named after the seaside town that harbored the Bloc Weekend festival, its a warp-free romantic reflex of the brain dance vibe – or a heartfelt love song for circuits. Carinacid completes the quartet with a chugging and hugging mid tempo beat that could have gone on forever. Acid test passed! Artwork by Gasius.











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