Kaspar Kochker- Funk You EP

The brand new "Funk You" EP simply shows why filtered funky house music is Kaspar Kochker's forte. Kochker, for the ones who still do not know him, is a very young and talented producer and DJ hailing all the way from Latvia. His tracks-- from melodic progressive house to irresistibly funky bangers-- have reached labels like Nellie Recordings and L-8 Records to name a few. This time around, his latest two, "Funk You" and "Dancing Latgalians" have made it on Bid Muzik, and are compiled in the "Funk You" EP!

"Funk You", on one hand, opens up the release with filtered grooves and funky banging basslines. Now that is how you put the Boobass to good use! On the other hand, "Dancing Latgalians" also is a funky banger just like "Funk You"; however, its sassy saxophone and disco-infused elements make the difference!

Release is out now! Go and support Kaspar Kochker's latest-- the "Funk You" EP.

Also check out the exclusive interview with Kaspar Kochker himself!

READ MORE - Kaspar Kochker- Funk You EP

Soul Cola- In Luv

We fell in luv with their massive hits, "Hit the Morning Beat" and "Sandy Party". We danced to their soulful rhythms when they went deep and jazzy for Dave Storm & Ricky Inch's "I Don't Know". From Moscow with luv, Soul Cola appears once again on Soundscapes, but this time, with their latest release "In Luv", exclusively released under a London-based label, Dragonfruit Music.

Soul Cola is all about the jazz, the class, the funk, and the house music. The band consists of K. Smart and P. NoFrost, the two DJs and producers, Karina, the vocalist and lyricist, D. Antipov, the sound engineer, L. Klimin, the bassist, T. Nekrasov, the saxophonist, A. Papiy and Phil, the guitarists, and Daria, an occasional vocalist. Moreover, we have spotted Soul Cola in labels like Reelgroove, Barcoda, Coffee n Creme, SoulfulMood, Cabrio, and of course, Dragonfruit Music.

In Luv (Gustav Fabien Remix)

Opening the release is Gustav Fabien's remix, a funky-disco reinterpretation of the original. Expect the funky basslines and disco-influenced strings to steal the spotlight!

In Luv (Vincent Kwok Remix)

California-based house producer, Vincent Kwok also takes remix duties for Soul Cola. For this second track, we first hear the first of many saxophone solos in the series in this remix. The Vincent Kwok remix is the perfect steady alternative of "In Luv".

In Luv (Original Classic Mix)

Jazz is class. SC kicks in their first original craft of the release-- the original classic mix. If you like your tracks hip, upbeat, soulful, and dance-able, then this mix is for you! Of course, what is a Soul Cola release without its sassy saxophone solos-- well, they took that in mind and made sure people would hear that in this original classic mix.

In Luv (SC Synthetic Mix)

The Soul Cola Synthetic Mix caters a more atmospheric approach to "In Luv"-- an obvious depart from organic music components. Flanged stabs, reverbed pads, and a modulated bassline are just some of the cornerstones of this track. Oh yes, the saxophone-- it's still there!

In Luv (Arseniy & Jerym Remix)

Fellow Russian producer, Arseniy Chebyshev teams up with Jerym to produce his own jazzy version of "In Luv". With its punchy authentic drum patterns, the Arseniy & Jerym remix serves as the groovy counterpart of "In Luv".

In Luv (SC Classic Funked Up Dub)

The highly-acclaimed Funked Up sound of Soul Cola finally hits the release! With its breathtaking guitar rhythms, luscious funky basslines, and its sassy saxophone solos, Soul Cola adds their third and final version of "In Luv"!

In Luv (Astrologix Remix)

Finally the wildcard of this release-- a drum & bass remix of In Luv from Astrologix.

Now available on traxsource.com!

READ MORE - Soul Cola- In Luv

Simon Grey & Dave Storm ft. Nathalie Dorra- Signs

A couple of weeks ago, we were able to listen to the "Clazz EP"-- a special compilation made by Estonian producer, Ricky Inch-- and was released under Ceremony Records. This time around, we take a look at a fresh vocal release from the label: "Simon Grey & Dave Storm ft. Nathalie Dorra - Signs", with remixes from Deep Josh, Pete Gust & Lefthander, and Ricky Inch.

Signs (Original Mix)

German producer Simon Grey and label A&R manager Dave Storm kicks off a suave and jazzy track, "Signs" with Nathalie Dorra as vocalist. If you are a person who enjoys listening to funky anthems, mellow melodies, jazzy basslines, and soulful vocals, then you'll do good with this release!

Signs (Deep Josh Dub Mix)

Deep Josh also takes remix duties for "Signs" and here we have it, a warmer rendition of the track. The bustling percussions also are something to look forward to in this remix! 

Signs (Pete Gust & Lefthander Remix)

Pete Gust & Lefthander worked together to produce a downbeat and lounge version of the original. The Pete Gust & Lefthander remix caters emotionally-drawn piano melodies and a very suave guitar solo-- pretty impressive.

Signs (Ricky Inch Remix)

As always, Ricky Inch never fails to amaze his listeners with his juicy and bouncy jazz-infused sound! This remix is the opposite of the former remix because we get to hear upbeat and groovy basslines on this one. Aside from that, the filtered chords, guitar samples, and piano breakdowns bring the whole piece to perfection.

Amazing release right here. . .

Ceremony Records • Simon Grey • Dave Storm • Deep Josh • Pete Gust • Lefthander • Ricky Inch

READ MORE - Simon Grey & Dave Storm ft. Nathalie Dorra- Signs

SPiNTECH- Electrogruvjunkie

Mick Barroga has been one of Manila's well-respected veterans in the electronic dance scene for the past two decades. From releasing highly-acclaimed albums, "Dreams Unfade" and "Chill House From the Underground", to dropping the most infectious and groovy tracks in local clubs, Mick has grown into a very indispensable underground icon with his SPiNTECH moniker.

SPiNTECH, alongside Silverfilter, has also played a huge part in the propagation and growth of ElectronicaManila, the massive collection of electronica aficionados on Philippine soil.

DeeperManila Records is grateful to have released SPiNTECH's "Electrogruvjunkie" , a highly-sophisticated, eight-track album that contains timeless luscious, groovy, and chill melodies all united through house music.

From the dreamy opener, Groove Titans and the jazzy She's My Sugar, to the summer chill out take-aways, Sailing the Breeze, Twisted Seduction, and Lift Who Up High, Electrogruvjunkie gives off alluring aura to its listeners. Aside from those, the album also caters club-tailored tracks like the electrifying Jewel Thieves, the rock-solid funker, Phonk Tweaker, and the deep and funky Soultastic Funkforce.

SPiNTECH's Electrogruvjunkie definitely adds spice to house music, and with bountiful experience and honed skill, Mick Barroga shows how original Filipino house music is made.

READ MORE - SPiNTECH- Electrogruvjunkie

Claes Rosen- Sparkles EP

Swedish producer Claes Rosen isn't planning on taking a break this year. I have been following his releases for a decent time now, and I am really impressed with the enthusiasm he shows in his production. As he bounces from record label to record label, he leaves an indelible mark of creativity and style.

Not so long ago, Rosen released "Sparkles" on Space Walker Recordings, a label dedicated to reliving the spirit of groove and disco music in the twenty-first century. Having said that, here's a review on an instant-classic by Claes with three renditions of the record.

Sparkles (Original Mix)

First time in my entire life that I was able to listen to a very merry melody like Sparkles. With the highly-infectious melodies from the strings, the head-nodding sound from the 80's bassline, and the overall upbeat composition of the track, Sparkles sets itself unique compared to the other tracks there.

Claes Rosen - Sparkles (Original Mix) 128kbps by SpaceWalker Recordings

Sparkles (Sare Havlicek 1984 Remix)

Slovenia-based producer Sare Havlicek gives Sparkles a vintage wash. With bouncy basslines and sharper-sounding chords, Sparkles effortlessly captures the old school disco sound while retaining its irresistible groove.

Claes Rosen - Sparkles (Sare Havlicek 1984 Remix) 128kbps by SpaceWalker Recordings

Sparkles (Martin Virgin & South eXpress Remix)

The third remix is a piece hand-made by Martin Virgin and the sparkling band, South eXpress-- all hailing from Lithuania. Slapped and popped jazzy basslines, classy strings, guitar solos, soulful chords, the Martin Virgin & South eXpress remix brings Sparkles to the unadulterated dimension of alluring jazz music.

Claes Rosen - Sparkles (Martin Virgin & South eXpress Remix) 128kbps by SpaceWalker Recordings

Sparkles (SPSM Re-Funk )

The last remix duty falls to the Russian duo Kirill T. and Ivan L. They show of their musical skills and exotic taste by transforming Sparkles into one funky house anthem. It may not sound like the original track, but it's still impressive.

Claes Rosen - Sparkles (SPSM Re-Funk) 128kbps by SpaceWalker Recordings

Space Walker Recordings is in the process of collecting all the finest groove, jazz, funk, disco, and house musicians out there, and with the quality of music they produce, I think we know what to expect in the near future.

READ MORE - Claes Rosen- Sparkles EP

Interview with KASPAR KOCHKER [2010]

The year 2006 was a pivotal moment in Kaspar Kochker's life for it was that year when he finally embraced electronic music. And like most aficionados, he never looked back.

The love for electronic dance music made this 21-year old student get involved in producing music. Moreover, this inevitable desire to create music allowed him to spend hours experimenting and tweaking knobs that finally gave way to Kaspar perfecting his production ability.

In just two years, this Latvian wonder, with the help of his good friend Viktor Fox, soared sky-high with his new-found talent.

Kaspar's innovative shifting of genres can be heard through his tunes on Nellie Recordings like the deep and funky "Let's Funk Together" and the upbeat "Atlantic".

1. Hey man! How’s 2010 been so far for you as a producer?

Hey! I feel really great, now that more people are enjoying my music! For me, this is very important because it gives me more inspiration to innovate my sound.

2. Just wondering, how were you able to come up with this “Kaspar Kochker sound” we all hear today?

I like to experiment with sound. Sometimes, I’m into funky melodies, sometimes, deep, and even techy. You can really hear it in my tracks. For me, I can’t simply stay on one kind of sound, it has to evolve. I also love taking elements from disco and jazz music, and the way I see it, people appreciate them. Aside from that, I do have a tendency to make sound influenced by filtered house music.

3. Can you name us some artists who have made great impacts on your career as a producer and DJ?

My first inspiration was Mr. Eric Prydz, and then followed by Junior Jack, Kid Crème, and Electricano. Their musical styles simply inspire me to keep innovating my sound.

4. Among the places you have not yet been to, which country in the world would you like to visit, given the chance, and why?

Honestly, I have not been to many countries, but if I had the chance, I would visit Japan. I love watching documentaries on Japanese culture and history. I just love what they have.

5. How is the Kaspar Kochker like outside the studio or off the decks?

Summer is near and surely, I will be enjoying more free time fishing and living in the countryside, but for now, I need to finish some stuff for university.

6. You are one young talented producer; do you have any habits back in your childhood that may have played a big part of who you are today?

I really don’t know. Everything started with music improvisation… It’s quite weird, but I like it.

7. As part of the new generation of young producers, what message can you give out to the young aspiring producers out there who want to follow your footsteps?

Be unique in your music! Regardless of how crazy your ideas are, just do them, but the most important thing is that you must love what you are doing.

8. Can you name us your current top three tracks?

Kaspar Kochker - “Let`s Funk Together” (Original Mix) (Nellie Recordings)

Tone Depth and Vivie-Ann Feat. Michelle Narine – Taking Time (Kaspar Kochker Remix) (To be released on Ready Mix Records)

Kaspar Kochker - “Absinthe” (Original Mix) (To be released on Nellie Recordings)

Kaspar Kochker - Let's Funk Together (Original Mix) by nellierecordings

9. In your opinion, how can music unite people?

Music brings ecstasy to people! I mean look at all the happy people dancing and getting along because of the music. It’s brilliant what music can do for people.

10. If you were given a chance to do something you’ve never done, what would it be? Take up photography? Learn how to cook? Climb Mount Everest? Why?

It would be having some gigs around Europe for the summer. I just want to see people enjoy electronic dance music and it could be a good way to promote myself and my music.

11. Cheese or milk?

Cheese and milk.

12. Name one DJ you would like to spin with in a major event. What’s the reason behind this?

Hmm… that is a tricky question, but it would be exciting if the DJ was a girl.

13. What is in-store for Kaspar Kochker in the near future? Releases? Events?

Of course, a lot of new releases soon! For events, I can’t say anything for now because I have a lot of University work. We’ll see what will happen.

I, Miguel Hizon Libre, would personally like to thank you for your time and patience in accomplishing this interview. I wish you all the best in your career (and studies), and I will always be here supporting you and your music!

Cheers!

Thank you to you too! I’m happy that you have interviewed me! Love, peace and more house music!

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You can catch Kaspar Kochker in the following links below:

Kaspar Kochker @ Myspace

Kaspar Kochker @ Facebook

Also check out my reviews on some of his tracks and remixes here:

Dezza- Good (Kaspar Kochker Remix)

Kaspar Kochker- My Soul/ Let's Funk Together

READ MORE - Interview with KASPAR KOCHKER [2010]