Johnny Kon
Johnny Kon is a Drum n Bass DJ and producer from New Zealand. Currently based in Wellington, his music can be characterised as deep intelligent through to dark minimal. He has forthcoming releases on Extent VIP and more bits due for release on Silk later this year. With radio support in NZ & Australia, and loads of various big name producers and dj’s all playing his tunes, the future looks very bright for Johnny Kon so keep your eyes peeled for future info and tracks.
Johnny Kon – Caught
This track starts off with a very moody and haunting intro which is accompanied by deep evolving soundscapes. The crisp drums quickly punch into the mix and make way for perfectly placed percussion samples. With a stinking bassline and mid range that hits you right in the stomach, this is a very deep and spacious track which can be drawn at any time.
Johnny Kon – Hold My world
Johnny Kon hit’s us with another little roller for the B-side. Nice sound effects over the top of brilliant drum samples build up this tune to an almighty drop. Synth sounds reminiscent of a horror movie chase scene keep this track moving along nicely and the rumbling bass sits perfectly underneath. A very moody and hypnotic track thats sure to stay in the playlists of many across the globe.
Dominic Ridgway
Silk Recordings welcomes back D.Ridgway, one of the scenes brightest talents to emerge as of late.
Hot off the heels of his massive Sabre “101” Teeth Remix, competition winner and extraordinary new electronic music producer D.Ridgway drops his second release on Silk.Following up from the absolutely sublime cuts “Days Away” & “Beauty Falls”, Ridgway clearly sees eye to eye with the labels ethos and production quality.
Delivering an outstandingly fresh approach to making music, Ridgway encompasses elements of a more tribal feel with lashings of Burial esque flavored moods, haunting uplifting rhythmic melodies and an ever increasing sound design palette.
With a generous amount of released material and forthcoming bits on labels such as Digilab, Mjazz, & Extent VIP, it won’t be long before this artist is completely cemented in the sets of many dj’s and play lists across the globe. Ridgway is definitely one artist to keep your eye on for the rest of 2010 and beyond.
On the flip side of the release Dakosa step up to the plate for remix duties on one of the labels biggest tunes to date – “Beauty Falls”. Dakosa formed in early 2009 and hailing from their home town of Maidstone in kent Dakosa, Dave (Dready) Marsh, Mike (Kemikal) Craske & Leo (Soulific) Tomlinson, are rising stars within the Drum & Bass scene. With releases currently on Shadybrain, Qilin Music & Broken Audio these guys are starting to turn heads and have already caught the eye of DJ’s like Doc Scott, Marcus Intalex, Loxy, Data, Nymfo, S.P.Y & June Miller.
Dominic Ridgway – Ketamine
As the name suggest, a euphorically warped and spine tingling track reminiscent of ancient cracked records gathering dust in the corner.
Just like the illicit drug, this track soon picks the listener up and takes them on a dark sliding tunnel of various emotions and feelings. Subtle beats strewn over moody pads soon capture you in a state of ambiance making way for the enormous sub bass which actually blurs your vision when it’s dropped in the club.
Sensational work from D.Ridgway, this is timeless music and is sure to stay in the sets of many dj’s for a long time to come.
Dominic Ridgway – Beauty Falls (Dakosa Remix)
For the flip side Daksoa, step up for remix duties of the epic “Beauty Falls”.
Dakosa are one of the scenes brightest trio of artists, with releases lined up on labels such as Broken Audio, Digilab, Touched By Records, Buried Audio & Different Music.
Breathing a new life into an already amazing track, the trio comes with a more dancefloor origntaed vibe. Epic drum patterns and subtle whispers of the original vocal haunt the first half of track. Don’t be fooled tho, this track drops in with some excruciatingly heavyweight bass that will tear apart most sound systems. Accompanied by melodic and driving synth stabs which drift over deep atmospheres, this track is sure to impress even the most hard to please dj’s.
VA – The Liquid Silk E.P
For this release the label goes back to it’s original roots and explores the influential sound of liquid funk. In the form of a series of E.P’s this will be Vol 1 and the series will showcase the best in deep, soulful, melodic music.
The E.P packs in an array of talented artists from across the world, descending from countries such as Russia,Australia,Spain,Brazil & New Zealand this is truly a global e.p.
m25, The Square & First Function – On The South – (Nether remix)
An amazing piece of contemporary electronic music, this remix has been wining the hearts of many dj’s across the globe. With plays from scene heavyweights such as Marcus Intalex & Doc Scott, it’s no wonder there is so much love for music such as this.
The track starts off with a massively catchy hook and builds into the enormously deafening sub bass. Beautifully crafted vocals float throughout the track but its not these qualities that has everyone drawling, more the tracks ability to switch up into grimy amen edits and dark haunting bass stabs.
Definitely one for the summer festivals this year while it’s still reminiscent of that big uplifting club vibe. Nether has also just had some of his own remix pressure with none other than Marcus Intalex, giving his tune – “True Believer” the once over which is due out on DSM very soon. Watch out for other releases from Nether on labels such as 31 & DSM as well as previous releases on Silk under the “Jynx” alias.
Skyweep Feat Katie Epworth & Sunset Cafe – Light Of Day
“Light Of Day” is a vocal work out of epic proportions. Big dance-floor styled drums start the track off, as melodic pads drift underneath and build space for the epic breakdown. Upright and jazz influenced bass sets the mood as the catchy vocal lifts the energy high into sky.
To round it off a superb mix-down aimed at the dancefloor, this track provides the dj with one for the best breakdowns currently on rotation. The vocal hook alone is something very special and is sure to keep u singing for days to come.
Skyweep is a relatively unknown artist and Silk prides itself on bringing fresh, talented artists and music to the scene.
m25 & Subsid – Rio (Bu Remix)
With the original of this track seeing a release late last year on the Silk imprint. Bu who is owner of the mighty Digital Colors Records, steps up for a rework of the classic Rio.
A hugely popular tune and perfect for a summer set, this track has all the right melodies and hooks to keep you grooving into the day or night. You can really feel the snippets of soul and funk oozing out of the track and a perfect combination of razor tight beats and percussion, keeps this track moving.
Receiving airplay on BBC Radio 1 for their previous Silk releases you catch m25 & Subsid’s current tunes on Doc Scott’s 31 imprint, Extent & Offworld just to name a few.
Johnny Kon – Blackwater Mercenaries
Johnny Kon has been hitting all the right notes lately with tracks currently appearing on labels such as Amour, Digi-Lab, Extent & Rotation. Also riding off his previous release on Silk – “Blackwater Mercenaries” is a tune to be reckoned with.
Perfectly arranged and chopped breaks that mirror the old skool vibe on early Source Direct tunes, Johnny has really found something of a rich space within the drums that he sequences. Rumbling underneath the breaks, heavy bass takes over and the haunting FX sounds keeps the driving force constant throughout.
A not to be missed track if you like the early days of Cylon Recordings and similar labels.
VA – The ASCENSION E.P
“Ascension” is a belief that some individuals may have ascended beyond this earth and into another universe. Such is the case with Silk’s 15th release aptly titled – “The Asencion E.P.
The E.P comprises producers spanning from two countries that are currently on top of the electronic music scene – U.K & Russia. With a concept built on big bass and experimentation, each track contains the best in the experimental concept that Silk is built on, but also keeping a deep, dark, minimalist vibe throughout.
These 4 tracks can be played at low volume on your ipod or dropped on the biggest club systems and still have the maximum effect that you are looking for.
On top of this release we are also giving away a free tune – eleven8 ‘They Don’t Mix’. This track was exclusively produced by eleven8 for Silk, it has been professionally mastered and you can download both .wav and .mp3 formats.
Dominic Ridgway, eleven8 & Mr Foul – On My Road
“My Road” brings together 3 of the most talented and creative producers within the electronic music scene. Together their releases span more than 20 labels and cover all styles and genres of dubstep and drum n bass. With each individual very serious about the quality of their own output and creating something unique within the music they write. It’s easy to see why these 3 individuals are the next in line to be the next big thing.
This track encompasses lashings of dub skanks and dreamy melodies, that are laced with futuristic styled beats and and glistening percussion parts.
White noise and subtle atmospheres drift in and out of the background textures which form a space within the reverbs and the vocal sample lets you know exactly where u are – “My Road”. Currently being featured in many mixes and in countless dj sets across the globe.
Nuage – Have No Words
The title of this track says it all! It’s one of those perfectly composed tracks that gets every shade of light and dark spot on.
The haunting synths combined with uplifting and spacious soundscapes make the beats blend in seamlessly with the rest of the elements. With a vocal that sweeps over the track and glitchy percussion that soon makes way for the powerful sub underneath.
Nuage has releases on labels such as Translation, Absys, Respect and Digilab it’s obvious that this is just the start of something for the Russian based producer and dj. Nuage is currently setting the standard for experimental music, with tracks already completed at various other tempos and for his forthcoming L.P on Absys. You will be seeing plenty more of this producer in 2012.
Vantage – Hide Behind
A relatively newcomer to the electronic music scene Vantage has been making serious waves within the d&b scene as of late. With tracks already forthcoming on labels such as Lifestyle & Digilab and his debut on Silk, it’s easy to see the production quality & skills of this producer are set to a very high standard.
Having received plays by loads of dj’s and also being featured in various podcasts and mixes “Hide Behind” is definitely a tune not to be taken lightly. With an epic intro and a sublime vocal just before the drop, this track really does the damage to the floor. Razor tight beats coupled with melodic and deep pads make the airy space that shines throughout this track. Perfect reverbs and effects glide seamlessly over all the parts creating a fantastic mix that works not only in the club but also on your home hi-fi speakers.
Brokensilence – Chi Consumer
Another relatively unknown duo of producers “Brokensilence”, comprises of two young producers hailing from Russia.
The track takes listeners on a deep, dark and emotive journey through immense soundscapes and deep, dark bass.More on the heavier side of the spectrum, this track unfolds into a huge bass workout with layered reece’s and bass stabs reminiscent of the old tech sound that was ever so popular at the start of the decade. Sci-Fi styled samples and vocals, evolve and build throughout the rest of the track and bring us onto the epic breakdown. Pitched percussion and abstract beats layered with various effects keep this track moving at a fast pace with a constant vibe of high energy, perfect for the club in the early hours of the morning.
Expect to be hearing more from these talented producers very soon. Other releases currently on the label include a single entitiled – Whatever U Say/Headcracked, this has been receiving loads of support and plays accross the board.
BONUS FREE TUNE – eleven8 – They Don’t Mix
Please click the downward arrow to download.
Synth Sense & Anile + Flatliners & Sublime Porte
The artists featured on this release need no introduction to the drum n bass world. Having many combined releases under there belts and a massive following already, this release is shaping up to be Silk’s most anticipated release to date. Some of the labels already releasing works from the featured artists include – Inneractive, Cylon, DSM, Hardware, Commercial Suicide & Temah. The release had such a good response we have decided to get the one and only – ‘Consequence’ in to remix both sides. More info will be announced in early 2012, both remixes will feature on 12″ and digital formats.
Synth Sense & Anile – Static Movements
Already a firm favorite among many dj’s across the globe, “Static Movement” really hits home and shows what wonderful talents these two producers have. Synth Sense currently run an all hardware setup and this tunes is testament to that. You can hear the analogue warmth oozing out of every sound in this track as it builds into a mega minimal beat. Lashings of cold sci-fi sounds and a deep low end bass really put this track in your face. Anile also just hit No 3 in the 12” charts on Juno with his latest track so expect to hear loads more fantastic tunes from him and the Synth Sense camp.
Flatliners & Sublime Porte – Grizzly Hills
This track has been smashing up clubs all over the show, with support from many well know dj’s in the scene, Flatliners & Sublime Porte come up trumps on this funky number. Haunting synths layered over subtle soundscapes make way for one of the biggest subs your likely to hear this year. Flatiners have a reputation for making heavy hitting beats and this is no exception. You can find Flatliners latest tracks on labels such as Cylon,Broken Audio and Foundation X.
Integration Now
Silk’s first offering of 2011 is a new artist who goes by the name of “Integration Now” and he’s currently firing on all cylinders for the labels 17th release. A chemist by trade, “Integration Now” has been cooking up a storm of beats in his studio with releases penciled in for Darkestral and a L.P on the Extent VIP imprint. With downtempo releases forthcoming on one of Dubsteps newest experimental labels – “Solace Records”, it’s clear to see that this young chemist has no boundaries.
Be sure to keep an eye out for future releases on Silk in the coming months and a very special collaboration project in the works.
Integration Now – SN1
Deep moody vibes build the anticipation for this track with lashings of pitched vocal snippets and a sublime vocal chorus that cuts through the layered synth work. Definitely on the more experimental tip, this track will sit perfect in any mix or set thanks to the massive sub that pounds the low notes. This piece of music perfectly sums up the direction for the label in 2011 – Deep & Experimental!
Integration Now – SN2
Yet another vocal track from “Integration Now”, this one features the talents of one of Brazils newest up and coming vocalists. With a touch of vocoder to make the vocals come alive they blend in seamlessly with the rim styled beats and organic percussion. Strings and haunting pads make the track float along, as the heavy sub provides the monstrous low end which makes this track a perfect fit for the club system.
Gerwin
Silk are very proud to announce our 23rd release. We have secured tracks from one of the scenes biggest breakthrough artists – Gerwin. Having just had a slew of releases out on labels such as Deep Soul Music, Breakfast Audio, Respect and Absys just to name a few. Gerwin also took out 1st place in Knowledge Magazines Remix Competition of Seba’s ‘Painted Sky’ track and it was very well deserved.
This is Gerwin’s debut on Silk and it’s an absolute stormer. These tracks will appeal to a wide range of listners as both tracks have a unique flavor with each track representing a different style in the d&b spectrum. It’s fair to say that Gerwin has got both these styles nailed down.
Gerwin – Superhero
‘Superhero’ is the more laid back and deeper track of the release. With slick drum patterns, glistening pads and atmospherics all come together in a sublime musical sense. A soothing vocal whisps in and out of the track while piano’s keep the uplifitng theme throughout. A track that can be played anytime during a clubnight or on your ipdod at home.
Gerwin – My Hidden Side
The flip is a track entitiled ‘My Hidden Side’ and incorporates all of the heavy and nasty bits you would expect from a dancefloor roller. As the track suggests, Gerwin strays far away from his usual melodic and emotional minimal tunes into a massive dancefloor roller that is sure to please even the biggest of heads. A short intro heads straight into steppy beats lashed with percusssion and a vocal that sends chills down your spine. A massive bassline throws down the pressure and the arrangment works perfectly for the DJ. One of the biggest tracks we have released this year, kills any dance guranteed.
Brokensilence
We have our debut single from – Brokensilence. The Duo from Russia has previously released a track on ‘The Ascension E.P’ , which came out on Silk last year. Following on from their last release, the pair keeps the same deep, heavy and menacing vibe throughout this release.
Brokensilence – Whatever You Say
‘Whatever You Say’, builds throughout the long intro and soon makes way for a heavy drop with huge mid range bass flying at you from every angle. The haunting vocal carries the track thru intelligent edits and a massive sub line that keeps the track moving.
Brokensilence – Headcracked
‘Headcracked’ comes across with a more sinister and experimental vibe. Lush atmos and pads start the track off and soon subside into a wall of heavy hitting subs and deep bass stabs. Shimmering synth work and razor sharp beats compliment the seriously throughout out arrangement.
The Hybridz
This release features a new duo entitled – The Hybridz. This is the duos first release on the label and you can find some more info on them below.
The duo entitled “The Hybridz” was formed in early Jan 2011 and encompasses two simplistic minds from the furthermost corners of the earth – Australia & Brazil. Having only recently meet through, Jefferson’s (Integration Now) release on Jamie’s (Forge) label – Silk Recordings, the pair had very similar tastes in music and the direction they each wanted to take there own sound in. Not sticking to one tempo and experimenting with all types of time signatures and beat patterns “The Hybridz” stands for deep experimentation and a simple but melancholic and bass driven sound with no boundaries.
Their first official release is due out in the next few months on GBDA, which is a sub-label of the mighty “Peer Pressure Records” located in the USA. The release will be available on 12″ and a digital release date will be soon to follow. The next release is a digital single on Silk Recordings followed by a 12″ single due out in the 2nd half of the year. Following on from this a E.P of dubstep/garage tunes on 12″ and digital by brand new dubstep label – Solace Records. With many more releases to be confirmed keep an eye out in the record store for the duos signature sound.
Both artists still have heavy release schedules on there own, with labels ranging from the likes of Darkestral, Silk Rec, Something Deep & Extent VIP to name a few, this duo is set to busy over the next few months with literally some genre bending music to be released.
The Hybridz – Roots Of Resistance
With a strong dub flavor and heavy sub, this tune takes no prisoners. Minimal and rolling beats keep the tune together and are accompanied with some strong percussion and eerie synth melodies. A well-rounded vocal sample complements the dub vibe of the track. Currently supported by Loxy, Nether, Forge, Balistics and many more.
The Hybridz – Mind Splicer
A new direction and sound for the duo, this track lifts of with a epic intro and soon dissolves into glassy atmospherics and deep pads. Interesting percussion weaves it’s way throughout the track, while subtle fx and bass complement the deep vibes that run throughout. With it’s hypnotic vibe this track is something you will keep playing over and over again.
Getz
Our 19th release is now available on all online retailers and features some of Russia’s most talented new producers. Getz, Nuage & THRN come together on this stunning release which features some amazing soundscapes, lots of dirty mid-range bass and highly polished beats.
Getz is currently well underway to a long career within the music industry and has releases on labels such as Inneractive, Cylon, C4C & Soundium X. He also continues to collab with long-time partner in crime – Nuage. The boys have recently started a podcast series called – Interactive and a label to put out the music they make. Both artists have put an extreme amount of hardwork into the label and their debut L.P is currently smashing it worldwide. Keep an eye on these producers in 2012!
Getz – Life Is The Show
Life is the show starts of with an arp styled melody that weaves it’s way between samples and glossy drums. Synth pads and various dub fx keep the track interesting and accommodate the low sub as it winds it’s way between the futuristic drum edits that keep the energy high. Not your usual dark Getz track but one that is very eerie and primed for the dancefloor.
Getz & Nuage feat, THRN – Lost In Silence
Getz’s collab track for the release comes in very heavy indeed. Haunting synths layered over subtle soundscapes make way for the massive baseline. Amazingly sounding analog drums and fx give the track an old school vibe. Dark moody bass stabs round this track off so expect to hear this being dropped after 2:00AM on the dancefloor.