As the complexities in the world enumerate, we must evolve to include our fellow humans in new and thoughtful ways. Diversity is a key pillar of what makes underground music so dynamic and worldly efforts to dissuade the diversification of music ultimately erode the very foundations that love and music depend on. As our trip through this galaxy becomes infinitely more complex it is ever more important to celebrate the beauty that is created when people of different cultures and viewpoints come together to create music that unifies across all boundaries.
This EP celebrates the colorful palate of influence created when we work together as humans. For the project, Toronto-based techno subvert and LAL front man Murr returns to the label with two brilliantly designed selections: “Foreign Nationals” and “Blood River.” On remix duties for “Foreign Nationals” the label is excited to announce the return of a well-known entity with a name sure to touch some emotional portions of memory. Rithma (Om Records) joins the project to balance a world of melody with the psychedelic soundscapes of Southern California. Also on remix duties is Station Point, a new moniker for HD frequent J.D. Northrup (JDN/Chakaharta). The label first featured these two artists together on a release in 2004 and is happy to have them paired again.
“Foreign Nationals” displays the subversive tones that Murr is known for. Stripped down and fleshed out, Murr’s recordings stick to careful design and minimally maneuvered parts creating catchy tunes with seemingly simple constructions. The original is the perfect selection to help build anticipation leading into heavier material. Rithma’s remix draws upon the original building blocks but is delivered in a dance-floor friendly and quite unfamiliar revisit. Defining square-wave bass and perfectly tempered drum construction quickly allow feet to move, while later sections bring in melodic washing reprises. Station Point is the more techno-focused moniker of HD artist JDN and Chakaharta. Known for fluid bass construction and poly-rhythmic percussion, JD really turns up the fun on the bass line, providing a satisfying remix for the middle of a DJ set. “Blood River” offers something slightly different with crunched, rattling drum placement around staccato effects with intermittent dub washes creating a dream-state experience.
Be on the lookout for new material from Murr and Rithma in the coming months as they are deep in the lab working on new full-length projects.
Nick Warren (The Soundgarden) – “The original mix of Foreign Nationals is ace!”
Spettro (Get Physical Music) – “Love the raw and moody vibe on Blood River.”
Jamie Kidd (Box of Kittens) – “The original mix of Foreign Nationals is beautiful. Really lovely work from Murr.”
Lars Behrenroth (Deeper Shades of House) – “Perfect to build around in a set.”
Liquid Todd (Sirius XM Radio) – “Dreamy.”
Tyler Stadius (Deepsite) – “Good chill, atmospheric tracks.”
juSt b (Melodic Deep) – “Nice warm vibes.”
Salvatore Logicfusion (Deepinradio) – “Lovely and deep.”
HighTower (JELEWA music blog) “Full support for all of this.”
Simon Kirk (Stag Beetle Radio Show) – “Brilliant EP. The Station Point remix is amazing!”
Available Now From: Beatport, Juno Download, Apple Music, And Spotify.