Urban Landscapes hits the airwaves and the Internet tonight and every
Friday evening from 8-11pm PST on KCPR 91.3 FM, and through our live
Internet stream at http://www.kcpr.org/.
Don't forget that if you miss the live show, you can hear it anytime via
the Urban Landscapes site at http://www.urbanlandscapesshow.com. The
last five shows will always be posted for your listening pleasure
anytime, anyday. Be sure to tell your friends about the show.
NEWS
I've missed getting out the newsletter last week, but I've taken on a
bit more than I was able to chew. Some things had to wait a bit, and
this was one of those items simmering on the backburner.
There's quite a bit of info packed this, including loads of reviews (at
least the ones I've had time to do up to now--others are still pending)
and the two most recent playlists. Still, there's quite a crop of music
to suit your taste. You'll also find my monthly Soundscapes chart for
July 2002, as well.
I will not be on-the-air tonight, as I'm attending the 20th anniversary
reunion for my high school class. Yes, the truth be known that I'm an
old man...but I somehow still manage to cheat age very well
thankyouverymuch. The lovely Jennifer will take over the controls while
I'm away, and she'll do her best to take care of you with her own vision
for tonight's broadcast.
SUBTHUNK PROFILE TONIGHT
Be sure to listen to the second hour of this evening's show for an
interview and profile of Los Angeles-based band Subthunk. They have a
good mixture of jazz and electronic sounds on their debut album "Project
B" from last year. They are currently touring, and will be performing at
the Frog & Peach Pub in downtown SLO this coming Tuesday July 30. This
is a free show, so stop by! The band will also pass out limited supplies
of the promo CD for the tracks "Morpheus" and "Wobble." Both tracks will
be part of the forthcoming second album from the band due by year's end.
I might be at the show to introduce the band, as well.
ZERO DB/FLUID OUNCE PROFILE
On Friday August 2 during the second hour of Urban Landscapes, hear a
conversation and profile of the acclaimed UK-based production duo Zero
dB and their record label Fluid Ounce. This profile will air on the eve
of the release date for "Fluid Ounce Unmeasured," which is a compilation
of all of the 12" vinyl releases from the label. It will be be on the
streets worldwide courtesy of Ubiquity Records on Tuesday August 6.
REVIEWS
Various Artists--Om 100 (Om test)
It's hard to believe that Om has put out quite a bit of music over the
years. They have some hits and misses, but nice to know that the
majority of the music are a cut above the usual dance music.
And so it is that the San Francisco-based label has reached its
milestone with this, the label's 100th album. There are two CDs worth of
goods in this collection. I can't tell you much about it as yet because
there's no liner notes for it yet (it goes that way when one gets a
promo sometimes).
There's definitely something for every dancehead on this album. A bit of
house, a bit of hip-hop, a bit of nu-jazz, and other variations in
sound. It's due out in early August.
Binder & Kriegistein--Desayuno 12" (Zeiger test)
I can't say that I know much about this duo, but the original version of
this tasty 12" sounds like an acoustic version of the Moog Cookbook.
Very whimsical on the surface, and yet with a nice loungy feel to make
your ears tingle. There's both an extended version and the original of
"Desayuno" on one side.
On the flip, there's a Mikas Galaxy 500 mix with some house-laced remix
action rubbing the original in all of the right spots. Not out just
yet, but pick this one up when it does. The original is still my fave
here.
Inverse Cinematics--Slow Swing EP 12" (Pulver)
Yes...this is all good! Some new work from a duo who, I believe, are 18
years old. Such maturity in music for such a young age, because it
seems that the jazz sensibilities come through rather nicely with this
new EP from Germany's Pulver Records.
The tune "Someone's Soul" that's a very nice midtempo groover with nice
percussive rolls throughout. Then look out--the tune gets a tough
re-rub from Dublex Inc. that is absolutely delicious! But take on all of
the tracks, because they are all of exceptionally good quality.
Expect more from Inverse Cinematics, and expect more quality sounds from
Pulver.
Jazzanova--In Between 3LP (JCR/Compost)
And so it is that the very nice folks at Rope-A-Dope delivers a big
package. The moment I saw their logo and the package, I knew. But of
course, I had to open it to be sure. And man...what a gift it was!
The items: Three 12" vinyls, two of them are remixes of the tune "Soon"
(see the review below). Then there was yet another item: the
triple-vinyl of "In Between." You can imagine how very happy I was to
have received it.
And even better, I can truly appreciate all of those who marvelled at
how much better the vinyl really sounds as opposed to the CD. The
mastering is just absolutely beautiful, stunning, killer...fill in the
blanks. This is most definitely an essential for all the vinyl
collectors out there. But don't feel left out if you only have a CD
player, because even that one is an essential pick for your record
collection.
Jazzanova--Soon Remixes (JCR/Compost)
Not to be outdone by the "In Between" full-length are remixes of the
tune "Soon" that features the vocal work of Mr. Duplaix from Philly. The
"Soon" 12" singles are released as two separate slabs of vinyl. Between
them, you'll find remixes from the Mr. Stanton, giving his Domu Vocal
Mix and also a dub mix, Touch Of Class, and more...as well as some
instrumentals. Of course, the glossy cover artwork stands out rather
nicely for a standout track.
Various Artists--Mundial Muzique 2 (Guidance)
New compilation from our amigos at Guidance Recordings in Chicago, and
an awesome compilation per usual from the Chicago-based label. This time
the emphasis is on rhythms with an African perspective. And it's an
awesome listening from start-to-finish. There are previously released
tracks from the likes of Tony Allen vs. Tweak (from "The Allenko
Brotherhood Ensemble project), Nuspirit Helsinki, and Femi Kuti getting
mixed-up by Faze Action. But there are some new tracks as well,
including that of Butti 49 (who will have their long-player out very
soon on Guidance). Nicely compiled, nicely done.
Dubarchanoid Trim--S/T (Ultima)
The more I listen to this gem, the better it gets. The Japanese artists
really can shine through, and the album from this Japanese collective
shines for me so very well. The sounds go all over the place...jazz,
Latin, breakbeat, and other forward-thinking sounds. The album has no
one cohesive style, and yet by the end it just leaves a rather
satisfying feeling that the musical trip was rather unique.
Koop--In A Heartbeat: Gerd Remix (test)
This really nice mix by Gerd starts off with some drum breaks, then
builds up to a washing wah-wah sound that meshes in with the jazzy bass.
Quite a pleasant mix to listen to that will make you smile. Of course,
Mr. Callier's smooth vocals remain intact...and rightfully so.
Not sure yet if this will be officially release, so look around you for
those rare test copies floating around because this may be as likely to
a release as it may ever get. I do hope that Koop and Compost will make
this happen.
4 Hero featuring Lady Alma--Hold It Down Remixes 1 & 2 (Talkin Loud)
"Creating Patterns" has been released back in September 2001, and it's a
full-length that I would highly recommend without question. For some
strange reason, though, it's yet to make it stateside. Baffling, to say
the least.
And now we finally have out the well sought-after "Hold It Down" remixes
on 2 separate pieces of vinyl. For the first vinyl, I've listened to the
Bugz In Da Attic version of the tune several months back, and I thought
it sounded just okay. I was so very wrong...hearing it in all of its
glory on vinyl, the beats...the strings...the vocals...all stand out
very fresh. I've also listened to Kaidi's mix, and his contributions to
the mix (including some nice keyboard work) makes for a great remix. And
New York-based Osunlade adds a great soultempo mix that's nice and
delicious.
Now for vinyl two: newer remixes on this one. One from Teebone with a
rather great hip-hop slant to it. The other is my favorite on the flip
featuring the pumping basslines from Exmen. Very much a different take,
and yet they both sound delish.
Apparently, this will be the last 4 Hero release for Talkin Loud. Let's
hope that it won't be too long before we hear new things from Dego and
Mark Mac.
Mindmuggaz--One Minute Man (white)
On the same day that I was checking out the 4 Hero vinyl remixes, I was
checking out for some new and fresh vinyl. There were several white
labeled 12" singles in the Breaks section, and saw one plainly written
that said "Mindmuggaz One Minute Man."
Now I haven't heard of Mindmuggaz, nor have I've heard of "One MInute
Man." So I've decided to check it out. Damn! The bassline is absolutely
seductive, coming through hard and rough. I loved the feel and the tune
so much, I must have played it at least a couple of more times while I
was in the store. This is some serious shit!
So now I know that Mindmuggaz also dropped a rather infectious mix of
Missy Elliot's "Get Ur Freak On" last year, apparently tearing up the
clubs wherever it played. Now they are trying to do again for Missy
(along with rapper Ludacris) what they've done before, and I feel that
this will drop clubgoers to their knees. This is the kind of music that
is so primal in its intensity, that you should hold onto your decks for
dear life because this should fill the floor rather nicely.
Just like the "Freaks" mix, this is an illicit tune (read: bootleg remix
and may never get a legitimate release). So seek and snatch it up,
because word has it that this pressing is it!
Nightmares On Wax--Mind Elevation sampler 12" (Warp test)
I've always found listening to Nightmares On Wax captivating, and it's
good to have followed the maturation of DJ E.A.S.E.'s long-time project
throughout the years. The most recent works seems to root N.O.W. into
the boundary between hip-hop and downtempo, sometimes merging them both.
And this EP is no exception. Four tunes taken off the forthcoming "Mind
Elevation" long player on Warp will please longtime N.O.W. fans, and
hopefully generate new ones. If the EP is of any indication, expect a
great follow-up long-player.
The album is due to drop on September 3rd.
Koop--Waltz For Koop (JCR/Compost)
So much has been said about this brilliant debut from the Swedish duo
known as Koop. Many who have heard the full-length earlier this year
have placed the work amongst their choices for top albums of 2002.
Now thanks to forward-thinking Quango label, "Waltz For Koop" has been
released stateside. For this release, we get a bonus CD that includes
two videos and two remixes that were previously on the "Summer Sun" 12"
single. So the bonus CD should alleviate complaints about the album's
short length (around 35 minutes).
This is definitely a must-have in your collection for jazzheads,
loungeheads, and other fans of wonderful music. Have a listen, and have
a blast!
Chateau Flight: Remixent (Versatile/Studio Distribution)
Yes, yes! This wonderful album of remixes spanning over five years from
Gilb-r and I:Cube is being released here stateside on August 6. Let's
hope that this is the beginning of more releases here from this
French-based label. So grab it, listen, and be happy. Check the Urban
Landscapes web site for a review.
VELANCHE'S SOUNDSCAPES FOR JULY 2002 (in no particular order)
1. Focus--Having Your Fun (Versatile)
2. Dzihan & Kamien--Stiff Jazz (Couch)
3. Jazzanova--Soon featuring Vikter Duplaix: Domu Vocal Mix
(JCR/Compost)
4. Jazzanova--In Between (JCR/Compost)
5. Bassman--Doorpusher EP (Fabrique)
6. Various Artists--Companionship: The Sounds Of Scandinavia (April
test)
7. Various Artists--Fluid Ounce: Unmeasured (Fluid Ounce/Ubiquity test)
8. Cinematic Orchestra--Every Day (Ninja Tune)
9. Various Artists--Carte Blanche Vol. 3 (Naked Music/Astralwerks)
10. Various Artists--Local People EP (Local People)
11. King Britt Presents Scuba: Hidden Treasures (Om)
12. Cousin Cockroach--This Ain't Tom N' Jerry (Bitasweet)
13. Various Artists--Co-Operation Session 2 (Goya Music)
14. Nuspirit Helsinki--Trying: Butti 49 Remix (test)
15. Koop--In A Heartbeat: Gerd Remix (test)
16. Prefuse 73--The '92-'02 Collection EP (Warp)
17. Brooks--You, Me & Us (Mantis)
18. Peace Orchestra--Reset (G-Stone)
19. Stereotyp--My Sound (G-Stone)
20. High Contrast--True Colors (Hospital/Breakbeat Science)
21. Inverse Cinematics--Slow Swing EP 12" (Pulver)
22. Dubarchanoid Trim--S/T (Ultima)
23. Toy Division--Budapest Resonance 12" (Juice)
24. Binder & Kriegistein--Desayuno 12" (Zeiger test)
25. Nightmares On Wax--Mind Elevation sampler 12" (Warp)
LAST FRIDAY'S PLAYLIST--July 19, 2002
(Listen to this show via the RealPlayer 8 or higher, including the
Chateau Flight/
Versatile Records Profile, at
http://urbanlandscapesshow.com/shows/19Jul02.ram/)
1. Kahuun--Striladans
Compassion: The Sounds Of Scandinavia compilation (April test)
2. Mono--Highlife (Remembering Herbert Mix)
Secondhand Sounds: Herbert Remixes (Peacefrog)
3. Ski Oakenfull--Tress Cun Deo La (Scuba Remix)
King Britt Presents Scuba: Hidden Treasures compilation (Om)
4. Dom Um Romao--Groovystation (Ian O'Brien Remix)
Irma On Canvas #5 EP 12" (Irma)
5. Jazzanova--Soon featuring Vikter Duplaix (Domu Vocal Mix)
Soon Remixes Part 1 EP 12" (JCR/Compost)
6. Rima featuring D'Vax--Other Worlds
Cooperation Session 2 compilation (Goya Music)
7. Cousin Cockroach--Hands Off The Controls
This Ain't Tom N' Jerry 12" (Bitasweet)
8. Larissa Papp--You (Fabrice Lig Mix)
12" (Neglige)
9. Landslide--Don't Give Up Yet (Boswick Gates Mix)
Om 100 compilation (Om)
Chateau Flight/Versatile Records Profile featuring Gilb-r Interview
(* indicates background music)
-Joakim--Cotton Gun*
12" (Versatile)
-I:Cube--Pooh Pah
Adore (Versatile/Big Red)
-Chateau Flight--Frontal Funk
Puzzle (Versatile)
-Chateau Flight--Auto-Power (4 Hero Remix)
Versatile Family Album compilation (Versatile)
-Chateau Flight--Prism*
Puzzle (Versatile)
-Focus--Having Your Fun (4 Hero Remix)
12" (Versatile)
-Focus--Spaceship Rocket
12" (Versatile)
10. Nuspirit Helsinki--Makoomba
Mundial Muzique 2 compilation (Guidance)
11. Subthunk--Pretty Groovy Man
Project B (Ureneely)
12. Mr. Scruff--Shrimp
(Ninja Tune)
13. Bassman--Play
Doorpusher EP 12" (Fabrique)
14. Nicola Conte--Arabesque (Micatone Re-work)
Jet Sounds Revisited 2x10" compilation (Schema)
15. Kabuki--Sex Drive
12" (Dialog/Sonar Kolletiv)
16. High Contrast--Music Is Everything
True Colors (Hospital/Breakbeat Science)
17. Koop--In A Heartbeat featuring Terry Callier (Gerd Remix)
(test)
18. Tied & Tickled Trio--Sevastopol version
Electric Avenue Tapes (Clearspot)
19. Chris Bowden--Crockers & Killers
Slightly Askew (Ninja Tune)
20. Carmel--Harikiri Blues
Fluid Ounce Unmeasured compilation (Fluid Ounce/Ubiquity test)
PLAYLIST FOR FRIDAY JULY 12, 2002
(Listen to this show, including the Atjazz/Mantis Recordings Profile, at
http://urbanlandscapesshow.com/shows/12Jul02.ram/)
1. Orbit Experience--Orbit In Moskow
Black Coffee Chapter 4: Blue compilation (Ecco Chamber)
2. Jazzanova--Another New Day
In Between (Rope-A-Dope/JCR-Compost)
3. Quant--Stimulus
Playground Vol. 5 12" sampler (Ecco Chamber)
4. Inverse Cinematics--Someone's Soul
(Pulver test)
5. Ennio Styles & Lanu--Psybossa
Local People EP 001 (Local People)
6. Dzihan & Kamien--Stiff Jazz
12" (Couch)
7. Projections--Backbone
Carte Blanche Vol. 3 compilation (Naked Music/Astralwerks)
8. Ernesto's--Hear My
Companionship: The Sounds Of Scandinavia compilation (April test)
9. Zero dB--Come Party
Fluid Ounce Unmeasured compilation (Fluid Ounce/Ubiquity test)
10. Peace Orchestra--Shining (Truby Trio Remix)
Reset compilation (G-Stone)
Atjazz/Mantis Recordings Profile
-Magic Number--That Day
12" (Mantis)
-Atjazz--Day 2001
Labfunk (Mantis)
-Atjazz--It's Complete (Phil Parnell's Pushin' Your Love Mix)
12" (Mantis)
-Atjazz--Touch The Sun (King Britt's Scuba Mix)
Labresults compilation (Mantis)
-Kabuki--Tempest (Atjazz Remix)
12" (Head-To-Toe)
-Brooks--Clix
You, Me & Us (Mantis)
11. Agent K--Rideaway Getaway (featuring Carleen Anderson)
Feed The Cat (Laws Of Motion)
12. Bassman--Big Fun
Doorpusher EP 12" (Fabrique)
13. Michelle Sharprow--If I Lost You (Scuba Remix)
King Britt Presents Scuba: Hidden Treasures compilation (Om)
14. Larissa Papp--You
12" (Neglige)
15. Daz-I-Kue featuring Andrea Clarke--Lifeline
Cooperation Session 2 compilation (Goya Music)
16. Stereotyp--Jahman (featuring Tikiman)
My Sound (G-Stone)
17. Manu Dibango--Soul Fiesta (Chateau Flight Remix)
Chateau Flight: Remixent compilation (Versatile)
18. Swell Session--April In Vein
Companionship: The Sounds Of Scandinavia compilation (April test)
----Please feel free to send promos/musical submissions (CD/CDR, vinyl, and minidisc) for airplay and/or review consideration to the following location:
Velanche Stewart, Urban Landscapes c/o KCPR 91.3 FM Graphic Communications Bldg. Room 201 Cal Poly State University San Luis Obispo, CA 93407 USA
If you're available for interviews, we welcome them as well. Just e-mail me at velanche@kcpr.org.
This newsletter is sent to DJs, record labels, promotion companies, and like-minded music lovers from around the world. If you wish to be removed from the list, please let me know.
To be added to the weekly mailing list, please let me know and I'll add you.
Have a great weekend!
This archive was generated by hypermail 2b30 : Fri Jul 26 2002 - 22:08:03 CEST