AbandonSilence

2012-02-01T18:07:00.005Z

After the huge success of the Night Slugs takeover, we move on to our next gig on the 9th February featuring the sounds of Mosca, Disclosure, SertOne b2b Bolts & Real.

£6 advanced tickets available:

online from http://www.skiddle.com/events/11580216/

or physically at 3B records, Slater Street

Abandon Silence are proud to present a special double bill as two of the UK's hottest artists head to The Hold. 2011 was the year of Mosca, from his early releases to the inescapable Bax, played by artist as diverse as Seth Troxler, Skream and James Blake. To quote Fact, who placed the track at number 2 in their 2011 countdown; "Suave as you like, it blew up any dancefloor it came near and reminded us why we fell in love with UK club music in the first place." Supporting Mosca is the prodigious duo Disclosure, who bring their fresh and exciting live show to The Shipping Forecast. They spent the last couple of months of 2011 on tour as a part of the Annie Mac Presents... tour, being handpicked by the Radio One DJ herself. Despite their relative infancy, they have crafted a reputation as one of UK electronic music's 'next big things'. Support comes, as ever, from Abandon Silence residents Sertone, Bolts and Real.

Night Slugs...

2012-02-01T17:59:00.006Z

Wow.. Thursday night was more than anything we could've imagined. We sold out all of our advanced allocation of tickets, with the tickets held for the door all going within 20 minutes. The record breaking crowd were treated to a sonic display by L Vis 1990 and Bok Bok that will live long in the memory. With no rules except for a rising bpm, the two Night Slugs cohorts lead The Shipping Forecast through their back catalogue, with many a surprise thrown in for good measure. As you can see from the pictures below (full album here), a good time was had by all...]

Abandon Silence presents Night Slugs... all night long

2012-01-11T15:22:00.004Z

Abandon Silence presents Night Slugs... all night long

L VIS 1990 b2b BOK BOK (5 hour set)

Thursday 26th January 2012
The Shipping Forecast

£6 advanced tickets
Online at Skiddle ( http://www.skiddle.com/events/11574754/ )
Physically available at 3B Records, Slater Street

After an epic 2011 that included visits from James Blake, Joy Orbison, Ben UFO, Blawan, Sbtrkt and loads more, Abandon Silence move in to the new year with a record label takeover that has truly been over 18 months in the waiting.

Night Slugs has been one of the foremost labels in the UK Bass Music genre, with a catalogue of releases over the last 2 years to rival any other stable.

For this special night we are proud to welcome label bosses L Vis 1990 and Bok Bok to host proceedings all night long. An epic 5 hour set encompassing all areas of bass music, this promises to be one of the most memorable Abandon Silences to date.

L VIS 1990

L Vis 1990, real name James Connolly, had a huge 2011; a couple of single releases earlier in the year were followed by the hotly anticipated Neon Dream LP on Island Records. The album was one of the year's most acclaimed records, popping up on many of the 'End of year' lists. He will be making his Abandon Silence debut alongside his label mate...

BOK BOK

Making his Liverpool debut with this unique show, we cannot express how happy we are to be hosting Bok Bok at The Shipping Forecast. His 2011 EP, Southside, came out in mid-2011 in a maelstrom of hype due to a number it's heavy tracklist featuring some of the producer's best ever work. Tracks like Silo Pass and Hyperpass ran the Spring and Summer playlists, encorporating the sounds of house, techno and grime to devastating effect.

With a calendar of further stellar guests to come, as well a huge 2nd Birthday bash in June, we cannot wait to share 2012 with you once again.

Abandon Silence NYE Party details announced...

2011-12-03T19:55:00.004Z

Abandon Silence & The Shipping Forecast present...

Pearson Sound
Dauwd
Real
Horza

Sadly we must call time on what has truly been a fantastic Autumn run of shows. To celebrate the closing of Abandon Silence for the Christmas time, we can't think of anyone better to come party with us. Having played for us just over a year ago under his Ramadanman guise, we welcome PEARSON SOUND to The Shipping Forecast.

Heading to Liverpool after the release of his universally acclaimed FabricLive mix, we are proud to welcome him to The Hold. One third of the team behind the Hessle Audio label and formerly known as Ramadanman, Pearson Sound (aka David Kennedy) has certainly been keeping himself busy over the last couple of years. His refix of Hardrive's classic track 'Deep Inside' has been one of the year's most played tracks, with support coming from DJs across the musical spectrum.

Local support for the gig comes from Chester's highly tipped youngster Real and Abandon Silence residents Horza & Dauwd.

Tickets available now from http://www.skiddle.com/events/11524016/

Abandon Silence presents Pearson Sound / Ramadanman

2011-10-30T16:57:00.003Z


	Abandon Silence & The Shipping Forecast present... Pearson Sound Dauwd Real Horza Sadly we must call time on what has truly been a fantastic Autumn run of shows. To celebrate the closing of Abandon Silence for the Christmas time, we can't think of anyone better to come party with us. Having played for us just over a year ago under his Ramadanman guise, we welcome PEARSON SOUND to The Shipping Forecast. Heading to Liverpool after the release of his universally acclaimed FabricLive mix, we are proud to welcome him to The Hold. One third of the team behind the Hessle Audio label and formerly known as Ramadanman, Pearson Sound (aka David Kennedy) has certainly been keeping himself busy over the last couple of years. His refix of Hardrive's classic track 'Deep Inside' has been one of the year's most played tracks, with support coming from DJs across the musical spectrum. Local support for the gig comes from Chester's highly tipped youngster Real and Abandon Silence residents Horza & Dauwd. Tickets available now from http://www.skiddle.com/events/11524016/

October Memories

2011-10-30T16:37:00.005Z

After the madness of Jacques Greene, our two October shows blew us away. Firstly we hosted the Hessle Audio crew with performances from Blawan and Ben UFO, and then last week Oneman and Mele headed to The Shipping Forecast.

Below is a selection of the photographs from the Hessle Audio night, which can all be viewed here... (Oneman/Mele photos to follow)

Abandon Silence presents Hessle Audio w/ Ben UFO, Blawan & residents

2011-10-10T15:25:00.002+01:00

This Thursday Abandon Silence hosts Hessle Audio with a huge takeover of the Shipping Forecast featuring the sounds of Ben UFO and Blawan. Full details below...

Ben UFO
Blawan
Merseyside Acid Committee (James Rand & Mele)
Rich Furness

Thursday October 13th 11pm - 3am
Advanced tickets £5 from Skiddle at -- http://www.skiddle.com/events/11516250/

Abandon Silence cracks on with it's new Autumn calendar as we host possibly our most hotly anticipated show of the year as Leeds based record label Hessle Audio stop by for a night of debauchery and frivolity. The label has released tracks by Ramadanman, James Blake and Addison Groove.

One third of the team behind the label, Ben UFO, will be headlining the gig alongside Blawan. Fresh from one of the tunes of the Summer, Getting Me Down, Blawan will be bringing his techno inflected sounds to The Shipping Forecast. Headliner Ben UFO is a rarity in the bass music scene as just a DJ, not a producer. However, his eye for selection and supreme DJ skills has seen his stock rise to one of the most revered artists in the genre.

Support comes from the worldwide debut of the new 90s influenced project by Mele & James Rand, The Merseyside Acid Committee, and Abandon Silence stalwart Rich Furness.

Jacques Greene... wow

2011-10-10T15:18:00.005+01:00

Wow! That's all that we can say about last week. Despite the huge response to our Autumn Line Ups announcement a few weeks ago, we didn't expect such a turn out as we got for our opening night with Jacques Greene. After selling out our advanced tickets, we then had to close the door just 45 minutes after opening due to safety issues with the venue!

We must say some huge thank yous to Jacques Greene, Ifan Dafydd, Dauwd and Rich Furness for smashing the dance. Other mentions must go to Joe Coghill, Pete McGinniss, James Rand and Lew Boardman for helping the night run so smoothly. Below are a selection of the best pictures from the night, with the full album available to view here

Abandon Silence Autumn Listings

2011-09-20T03:31:00.002+01:00

After a busy Summer schedule which included a performance at Parklife Festival and an epic trip to Outlook, Abandon Silence are proud to return to The Shipping Forecast this Autumn.
As a part of our reinvention for the 2011/12 year, we are now turning in to a fortnightly club night. This is the perfect change for us and you, as now we can host twice as many of the world's best bass music artists!

Without further a do, here are the line ups, as well as ticket links. As always, we recommend that you purchase an advanced ticket to save money and guarantee a spot in the crowd!

Abandon Silence 'Welcome Back' Party

JACQUES GREENE
IFAN DAFYDD
Dauwd
Rich Furness

Thurs 29th September
Adv tickets £5 at - http://www.skiddle.com/events/11514098/

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Abandon Silence presents Hessle Audio

BEN UFO
BLAWAN
Merseyside Acid Committee
Rich Furness

Thursday 13th October
Adv tickets £5 at - http://www.skiddle.com/events/11516250/

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Abandon Silence presents... Ink @ Chibuku at The Masque

Headliner TBC
Dauwd
Horza
Horus

Saturday 15th October
Adv tickets £15 at - http://www.chibuku.com/shop/

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Abandon Silence

ONEMAN
MELE
Dauwd
Rich Furness

Thursday 27th October
Adv tickets £5 at - http://www.skiddle.com/events/11524004/

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Abandon Silence presents..

PEARSON SOUND / RAMADANMAN
supports tbc

Thursday 10th November
adv tickets £7 at - http://www.skiddle.com/events/11524016/

Abandon Silence 1st Birthday: thanks and pictures

2011-06-17T04:11:00.004+01:00

On the 2nd June, we celebrated our 1st Birthday at the fantastic Shipping Forecast bar in Liverpool City Centre. Performances came from Joy Orbison, Alix Perez and the return of every local DJ to have partied with us in the past 12 months.

I would like to take this moment to thank everyone that has assisted in every way, big or small, to the progression and success of Abandon Silence.

On the promotions side, we now take a Summer hiatus, and will return bigger and better in September, see you then!

Thanks,

Abandon Silence

ps. below are a selection of the best photographs from the night. The rest can be viewed BY CLICKING HERE

One to Watch: Clams Casino

2011-06-17T03:42:00.003+01:00

After the release of his highly acclaimed self-titled instrumental mixtape, Clams Casino has gone in the most perfect direction. After previously producing diverse hip hop for artists such as Lil B and Soulja Boy, he has decided to release his latest EP, Rainforest, through the New York based label Tri Angle. Famed for releases from 'drag'/'witch house'/ 'calypsostep'/'needlesslabelstep' artists such as Balam Acab, the ease with which Rainforest fits in to the label's roster is highly exciting.

You can stream the EP from Soundcloud below - it is available to buy from the 27th June.

Enjoy...

Rainforest EP by clammyclams

Jack White, Norah Jones, Dangermouse and Daniele Luppi - Rome (Album Review

2011-06-09T11:21:00.002+01:00

In the last couple of years there has been an uprising of the so-called ‘Super Producers’. Most of the music coming from these guys sound like a collection of singles produced for different vocalists by the producer, with the only unifying aspect being a love for noodly jazz (cough.. Ronson… cough) or pulling out ‘unexpected’ covers (cough.. Ronson.. cough) or, in fact, the fact that they’re best mates with said producer. (cough… no point anymore… cough)

Read the rest here...

Hudbu Festival - this September

2011-06-09T11:17:00.002+01:00

This coming September, you can catch Abandon Silence founder Andrew Hill performing a DJ set at the brand new Hudbu Festival! Based at Wirral Rugby Ground just over the River Mersey from our usual home in Liverpool, an awe-inspiring line up of the world's finest DJs and producers looks set to shake the very foundations of the UK festival scene. Though don't take my word for it, check the video out here....

Dauwd: Could It Be / Shimmer FREE DOWNLOAD

2011-05-18T03:26:00.006+01:00

Liverpool based artist Dauwd releases his debut EP for free this Month from the Bandcamp page of the ever brilliant Pictures Music. The fact that Dauwd met Pictures Music man Alex Clapworthy at our Mount Kimbie gig last October makes this release even more exciting for us! So, to the tracks...

‘Could It Be’ is the brother in arms of Joy Orbison’s calling card ‘Hyph Mngo’, with acid undertones guiding the tracks progression through an ambient and beautiful introduction, to the house breakdown and unexpected but brilliant bass wobbles in the finale. The influence of Mount Kimbie’s debut LP ‘Crooks and Lovers’ can be heard across the flipside ‘Shimmer’. Playfully light guitars are present throughout, as are some superb vocals. This release is absolutely perfect for the Summer vibes, and from listening to Dauwd’s other productions, this guy is set for a great future.

Click here to download both tracks for free from Dauwd's Bandcamp page.

Dauwd - Could It Be/Shimmer by Pictures Music

Salem vs Britney

2011-05-06T09:51:00.000+01:00

Salem didn’t just highlight the witch house/drag movement, they dragged it kicking and screaming in to the public consciousness with their critically acclaimed debut LP ‘King Night’ in 2010. Add to that a string of hugely anticipated live shows and devilishly flipped remixes, and you’ve got a surefire underground sensation on your hands....

READ THE REST OF THE POST HERE...

Submerse: A Catch Up

2011-04-30T14:41:00.005+01:00

AS: It's been just over a year since I last interviewed you for Example Magazine. A year ago you were one half of Submerse, a Future Garage production duo. Over the year I've seen the name Submerse popping up all over the place; interviews, gigs, feature mixes & releases. What's been happening since we last spoke?

Submerse: So much has happened this year it’s crazy; busy none stop all the time! Well, soon after we last spoke I became a one man band, due to moving and work related things. I’ve been pushing out as many releases as I can and been playing gigs all over the show including US, Canada, France, Poland, Belgium, and all over the UK. I also wouldn't really call myself a Future Garage artist as such because I’ve been making pretty broad things the past 6 months from Bassline to House to Moe/J stuff.

The main points of the past year have been releases, having a track picked up by Pioneer for the new DDJ TX1's, gearing up for shows in Japan, producing with The Klaxons, guest mixing for Ministry Of Sound Essential Garage, signing to Faze2 agency, heaps of Sub.fm shows, sponsorship deal with Terratag, charity compilations, and watching so much anime it hurts my brain trying to recap what I have seen. Overall it’s been a super year and all the peeps I have met/worked with have been amazing! Lots of wicked peeps in the world!

AS: So it's been a pretty busy year then! Out of everything that's happened, what would you consider your highlight?

Submerse: Ahh thats a tough one, so many cool things I couldn’t really say just one. The year as a whole has been sweet.

AS: Haha, fair play man. A lot has happened in the bass music world within the last twelve months. A lot of new sounds and artists have been breaking through and absolutely smashin' it. Are there any developments that you have noticed that have got you excited or influenced you in your production?

Submerse: Yeah there is so much good music around right now its awesome, I’m really feeling so much different stuff. Really into Skweee, Witch House and autonomic stuff at the moment. I also think bass music is getting broader and broader by the day, it’s good to take influence from a bit of everything. I still listen to plenty of game music, ost's, a/j-pop/core but I think having such a wide taste in music can help expand your productions and make you want to dabble in a few new things. So many producers to name who have been killing it recently bit massive things coming from every country. It’s been a great start the year!

AS: What's the deal all the Japanese sounds/samples you use? & what the hell is J-Core & J-Garage?

Submerse: Well I'm heavily influenced by anime etc. so it always rubs off on my tracks. I make a lot of serious, kind of sad stuff so it’s always great to make play tracks with fun to them.

Haha, J-Garage was just a funny name to call my productions that have anime J-Pop samples, nothing serious, not a micro genre or anything; taken with a pinch of salt! J-Core is awesome, basically just Japanese Hardcore, not finished any tracks yet myself but it’s just full of energy and there are some great producers.

AS: J-Core sounds pretty interesting. For those who don't know (my being one of them) who would you recommend checking out.

Submerse: Check out DJ Shimamura, M-Project and M-Neko (Who is from the UK!)

AS: You studied Music Production at Leeds Met University. Obviously you must of learnt a great deal about music during your time as a student, and not just in the technical sense, you likely made a lot of good friends, contacts and discovered a lot of new things. Would I be correct in assuming this? If so, university clearly played a big part in your growth as an artist and as a person. How do you feel about the increased university fees and what effect do you think it's going to have, particularly in regards to art & music?

Submerse: Yeah that's all true and 100% correct! I think for myself going to uni helped me get to where I am now. The people I met from nights, other producers etc. were all essential for my growth... but that’s just me and I think it had such an impact because I wasn’t living in a city before. I didn’t know anyone in the scene or anything like that and uni was where I met people. I think it’s shocking about the fees, but just being in a city and meeting people will help you so much. As my old college teacher always said it’s just about getting yourself out there.

AS: Tell us a little but about Heartbeats.

Submerse: Heartbeats is compilation put together by myself, Andy Bee and Price. It’s on sale for £5 and contains loads of unmixed tracks from a huge amount of producers. All the money goes to Red Cross Japan. I couldn’t be happier with how things are going for it and the amount of people wanting to help out! We will be doing more compilations in the future so keep an eye out!

AS: Great stuff! What producers would you recommend people keeping an eye on for 2011, and what can people expect from yourself this year?

Submerse: Lots of great producers doing amazing stuff this year! Far to many to name all of them but watch new stuff from Resketch, Para, Kingthing, Silvanian Families, Kastle, Kanji Kinetic who all have great releases planned! But as I say there are far to many to name! It’s going to be a great year!

As for myself I have forthcoming tracks on Party Like Us, Well Rounded, Frijsfo, Night Audio, Bass = Win, Mutant Bass, Off Me Nut, Formant, Youngunz + more. Also rammo with gigs around the UK and you can catch me in Japan (April - May) playing around Tokyo. I also may be back in the US towards the end of the summer and I have a load of new things in the pipeline that I have to keep hush about for now.

AS: Sounds good man! What's the best way for people to keep up to date on your happenings?

Submerse: I always keep my Soundcloud up to date soundcloud.com/submerse with forthcoming tracks and release info. You can also follow me on Twitter @submerse where i tend to spam a lot!

KoKo (Forthcoming Maltine Records) by submerse

Bubblin' (Forthcoming Frijsfo Beats) by submerse

contributed by Mickey Quinn

Abandon Silence Spring 2011 Mix

2011-04-27T07:50:00.003+01:00

With our first birthday fast approaching, we felt it was about time to create a new mix.

With one recorded and waiting in the wings for a little closer to the birthday, I thought I'd release this one now.

Featuring some great tracks and, if I may say so, hopefully some nice mixing, this Spring mix is available for stream and free download below.

Enjoy...

Spring mix by AbandonSilence

Tracklist

Timbaland - Apologize (REMOVED DUE TO COPYRIGHT CLAIM)

Burial & Four Tet & Thom Yorke - Ego

Jamie XX & Gil Scott-Heron - I'll Take Care of You

Jacques Greene - Tell Me (Kingdom edit)

Julio Bashmore - Battle for Middle You

French Fries - Merel (Lil Silva remix)

MJ Cole & Wiley - From the Drop

Jacques Greene - Another Girl

Amerie - One Thing (French Fries remix)

Redlight - What U Talkin' About (Roska remix)

Kingdom - Fogs

Kelis - Brave (Dark Sky remix)

Ramadanman - Glut

Blackdown - Crackle Blues (Burial remix)

The Abandon Silence 1st Birthday Celebrations

2011-04-27T07:48:00.005+01:00

We are ridiculously proud to be able to announce our plans for the celebration of Abandon Silence's first birthday this June.

Without further ado, here you go...

JOY ORBISON

ALIX PEREZ

plus support from every local DJ to have partied with us this year...

Rich Furness
Horza
Deuce
Dalema
SPD
Dave Clinton
SertOne
Bolts
Organik
Nate
Jake Daniel
Kidheader

Powered by FUNKTION ONE SOUNDSYSTEM.

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For this party, tickets are limited to just 200 and will be issued in the following way...
20 Early Bird tickets £5 -SOLD OUT
Limited amount of tickets on sale NOW £6

from skiddle.com (http://on.fb.me/eWq0EA)
and in person in 3B records, Slater Street.

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Oh my, how the last 12 months have flown by. Time flies when your having fun and all that.

We have decided to spend our first birthday in the presence of some special guests and some old friends.

We are more than proud to present our biggest line up yet, as we once again return to The Hold at The Shipping Forecast. Joining us is one of the UK's finest producers, JOY ORBISON. Since taking over the UK scene in 2009 with his releases 'Hyph Mngo', Orbison has gone from strength to strength, and we cannot wait to host him for our birthday.

Joining Joy Orbison will be ALIX PEREZ, One of the UK's greatest DnB producers, his recent move into 140BPM areas has seen a whole new fanbase come calling, and we are ridiculously happy to be able to host Alix on Thursday 2nd June.

As a part of our Birthday celebrations, we have invited every single local DJ to have partied with us this year back for a one off B2B session.

P.S. BE VERY AWARE that Early Bird tickets SOLD OUT in record time, so we recommend buying early to save money and guarantee your place in the crowd for this special night)

Joy Orbison - Hyph Mngo [HFT009] by Hotflush
Unknow - Sicko Cell (Oneman XLR8R podcast rip) by Paul Ming
Alix Perez -Behind Time by ShogunAudio

Thursday Night!

2011-04-27T07:32:00.003+01:00

This Thursday, Abandon Silence returns to the live sphere with the presentation of KORELESS's live debut show.

Since supporting Mount Kimbie with us way back in October, Koreless has gone from strength to strength. His single 4D/MTi was released on Pictures Music in March with support from Jamie XX, Gilles Peterson and Benji B to name a few.

We are so proud to have the chance to host Koreless, especially given the special nature of his live show. Support comes from local legends Rich Furness, Horza, Organik and Nate.

Advanced tickets are just £3, with a £5 charge on the door and takes place on Thursday 28th October at The Shipping Forecast, Liverpool, UK.

Koreless - MTI by Tsiabaannah

Koreless — 4 D by Dovydas ,LT -SE

Deadboy: An Interview

2011-04-27T07:23:00.003+01:00

After Deadboy's performance with us at the end of March, we managed to have a few words with the man himself.

You can read the interview in full here

2011-03-16T17:46:00.002Z

Burial // Four Tet // Thom Yorke – Ego // Mirrors – Text Records

It is hard to decide which artist here has generated more excitement; be it the reappearance of the mercurially brilliant Burial, the champion sounds of Four Tet or the return to the solo works of Thom Yorke? Since the release was announced on Tuesday morning, there has not been a build up like this since, well, King of Limbs?

The second that ‘that’ percussion drops in A-side Ego, it’s as if the last two years haven’t happened, and Burial has always been here. Since the last LP, Burial has been very quiet. One old track appeared on an El B compilation, but nothing concrete, nothing original, nothing to completely satisfy.

Original is one word that is synonymous with Burial and his collaborators Thom Yorke and Four Tet. Fresh from the recent release of the harshly treated mini-masterpiece ‘King Of Limbs’, Thom Yorke has seemingly decided to embrace his inner beat master. From playing at Low End Theory with the Brainfeeder crew to now releasing this EP, it is clear that Yorke knows how to enjoy himself.

Released through Four Tet’s label Text Records, it appears that Kieran Hebden has scored a major coup. This is in no way belittling the output that already exists on his label, but by releasing the works of Yorke and Bevan, he has guaranteed himself a sell out and a cult classic. His 2010 album ‘There is Love in You’ was one of my favourite LPs of last year, and he furthers his reputation by appearing alongside two of the most respected and critically acclaimed artists of the 21st century.

A-side Ego has some great moments, from the Jonny Greenwood-influenced horns in the opening salvo to the light keys that stroke and meander their way around the final exchanges. Yorke’s vocals are typically inaudible, needing repeat listens, or a lyric sheet, to decipher, but as with his solo and band work, his voice works as an instrument. The ability to create such an illusion is one that many singers struggle to ascertain, but one that Yorke has in abundance, particularly in his more recent works.

For a lover of Burial’s past work, the concluding couple of minutes are heavenly. To hear those pitch-screwed female vocals in a fresh light, to behold the manner in which he wraps the female’s voice through Yorke’s final words like ivy around bracken, it’s nothing short of miraculous.

On the flip there is Mirrors. This track has the percussion that made There is Love in You such a rewarding experience; ever moving, ever evolving. Yorke shows gives his vocal chords a work out and Burial gives the odd hint that he is still there, particularly in the breakdowns.

All in all, this EP will become a cult classic, especially in it’s 12” format. The three artists on show play off each other with different quality, the contrasting styles of Burial and Four Tet are an uneasy mix, deciding to work after each other as opposed to with each other, though Yorke’s vocals are more than enough to hold the whole thing together.

One thing that I fear may beset this EP is the same fate that has beseeched King Of Limbs since it’s release, that that the artist/s on show are capable of better, so it is not received well. However, when taken out of the context of the collaborators and their past works, this is possibly the best single of 2011 so far.

Burial / Thom Yorke / Fourtet - Ego by dgregory

Burial, Four Tet & Thom Yorke - Mirror by ListenBeforeYouBuy

Koreless 4D/ MTI forthcoming

2011-02-28T03:35:00.002Z

“Remember when you first heard James Blake, Ramadanman, well remember this is where you first heard Koreless. Remember this: Koreless with a ‘K’.” This is what UK radio legend and tastemaker Gilles Peterson had to say about 19 year old Lewis Roberts, aka Koreless.

After his free giveaway Up Down Up Down featured in many a ‘Best of 2010’ list, Koreless makes his way into the new year with the release of his debut EP, to be released on the highly impressive Pictures Music.

4D itself revolves around an emotional and drained vocal sample, with some light percussion and a beautifully progressive synth and sub bass combination that glides throughout.

Koreless - 4D by Paul Ming

S-X 3000 Followers EP download

2011-02-28T03:30:00.001Z

Anyone with their ears close to the sounds of the UK Grime scene will be more than familiar with S-X. Yet another teenager, the Londoner has built up a reputation as one of the UK’s foremost grime instrumentalists.

Following on from his production Woo Riddim utilised by D Double E in his eponymous track ‘Bad to the Bone’ S-X’s name has soared and to celebrate reaching 3000 followers on Twitter, he has given away a free digital LP comprised of ten tracks.

As an album, these tracks do begin to merge and appear quite similar. However, when you see them as they were intended; as three minute slices of grime intended for lyricists, you sense that the purported UK urban decline isn’t in such bad hands.

Particular mention goes to Motorway Music, with it’s skyscraping synth introduction diving headfirst into some heavy bass and some light keys that could so easily seem out of place, but just fit perfectly, much like most else that features in this giveaway.

Download : S-X : 3000 Followers Giveaway

James Blake - James Blake: a review

2011-01-26T17:35:00.004Z

James Blake – James Blake LP (Atlas Records)

After a breakthrough 2010, James Blake proceeds into the New Year with his self-titled debut LP, to be released on February 7^th via his own Atlas Records imprint.

In interviews leading up to the release, Blake expressed that it would be a more vocal lead piece than his previous two EPs, taking influence from artists such as Bon Ivor and Joanna Newsom.

As with CMYK’s 90’s R’n’B and Klavierwerke’s Mount Kimbie, Blake wears these influences on his cheek. Grinded into the sound we also detected flavours of Jack Penate, Joe and Wild Beasts.

Out of the 11 tracks on the LP, you can count on one hand how many do not contain heavy doses of re-pitched vocals, a vocal tool championed by one Kanye West. James Blake uses it mostly here to maneuver his voice into different octaves and in essence add extra layers to his production, a la Thom Yorke.

Recent release and hype builder Limit to your Love opened the world to the scope and range of Blake’s broken, yet stunning, voice. He spreads it liberally across minimalistic soundscapes with such ease that belies the fact that this is his first vocal lead release.

There are several potential ‘highlights’ on this record, from the dancing charm of Give me my Month to the indescribable splendour of Lindesfarne I. The penultimate track, I Mind, is possibly the best exponent for James Blake’s latest musical venture, as it perfectly positions itself on the plateau between Blake’s vocal and electronic work.

As with other tracks on the record, over four different vocal pitches are utilized in the track, with the chorus taking in all of these levels as it cascades over the smooth carpet of 4/4 percussion laid down to support it.

Since being previously leaked in the Summer of 2010, I Never Learnt to Share has been given a facelift and an extra 90 seconds in its transition from leak to album track.

The extra 90 seconds comes in the form of an extended introduction with unaccompanied vocals taking us through eight repeats of the burrowingly addictive verse.

After speaking to James Blake when he played at Abandon Silence in September, he spoke of his desire to move away from DJ sets, and into the live spectrum. His upgrade of I Never Learnt To Share appears to have been orchestrated perfectly for that setting. The easy drum build is just crying out for handclaps, and the ultimately hard hitting crescendo lends itself to a festival crowd. With plans for Glastonbury this year, I couldn’t imagine a better setting for Blake to play this record out.

Album opener Unluck is the perfect example of Blake using his influences extensively. In the Pitchfork end of year Polls he spoke of his love for Joe’s recent release, Claptrap. Unluck deploys some fantastically layered vocals spread across some quickfire percussion that does more than nod towards Joe’s Hessle Audio release.

The one track that appears capable of reaching the mass audience garnered by recent 12” Limit to Your Love (which does feature here), is the second track to feature, Wilhelms Scream.

The opening recalls Postpone from the CMYK EP, before some very Jack Penate sounding falsetto vocals seep in. The refrain, “I’m fallin’, fallin, fallin,” is sure to be a crowd highlight when he takes his show on the road in 2011.

When people discussed Blake’s crossover into vocal work from electronic, there were some eyebrows raised; after all, he had received deafening acclaim for his electronic work, so surely the only way was down? Wilhelms Scream butts down any of those fears, with his classically trained vocals echoing across the wall of sound style soundscape that steadily builds throughout the track’s near 5 minute length.

While reviewing this album, there has been one adjective that I have been refraining to use; yet it is the poignant and appropriate word. So, in conclusion, the clearest and most effective method for me to describe this record is simply…

This album is beautiful.

James Blake - Lindesfarne (live on BBC Radio 1) by MSFRQZ

James Blake - The Wilhelm Scream (Live at BBC Radio 1 Maida Vale) by Music Fan's Mic

2011-01-06T18:03:00.004Z

Hi all, and welcome to 2011!

This year Abandon Silence promises to give you the very best in new music, reviews and of course gigs. We have already organised our shows for now until March, with a very tasty first birthday being planned for June time.

Our first gig of the year is to be held at The Shipping Forecast as always, and features two of our favourite artists of the past 12 months.

Abandon Silence 05

SBTRKT - grizzly
GIRL UNIT - night slugs
rich furness
horza

THURSDAY 27TH JANUARY

£5 advanced from skiddle.com and from next friday, 3B records

10pm - 3am

Abandon Silence is proud to present our biggest line up to date, with two of electronic music’s rising stars coming to The Shipping Forecast on January 27th.

Our headliner is the anonymous SBTRKT. Having played our launch night back in June, Sbtrkt has gone from strength to strength, collaborating with Sinden and releasing music on the Mercury Award winning Young Turks. His DJ sets are a visceral hybrid of house, dubstep, garage and everything in between. Sbrtkt’s anonymity is maintained even when on stage, playing behind a tribal mask, letting the music do all the work.

Joining Sbtrkt we have the man of the moment, GIRL UNIT. His recent release, Wut, on the Night Slugs label, has been hailed as one of the tracks of the year by Pitchfork and Fact to name a couple. He has emerged from nowhere to become one of the most acclaimed artists of 2010, and we are incredibly proud to gift him his Liverpool debut.

Joining Sbtrkt and Girl Unit will be the ever reliable Abandon Silence residents Rich Furness and Horza.

SBTRKT - Hide Or Seek by sbtrkt

WUT by GIRLUNIT

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T16:05:00.007Z

Merry Christmas from everyone at Abandon Silence!

This year, a whole host of producers have been bitten by the festive spirit and decided to give away free downloads. Luckily for you I am waiting for my Turkey, so I am here to give you all the links to get the very best of these giveaways...

Firstly we have the don of the free download, Skream. He has decided to give away a whole album of free tracks, titled 'The Freeizm Album'. Special mentions go to Lightnin VIP, Skwelcha and his remix of P Money's Left The Room, which has been destroying dancefloors throughout 2010.

FREE DOWNLOAD: http://www.sendspace.com/file/4ad27r http://fb.me/P3FYlexz

Secondly we have an exclusive Footcrab VIP from Addison Groove. Footcrab was one of the singles of the year, even popping up in NME's list. The VIP adds an extra dimension to the originals addictive and energetic vibes.

FREE DOWNLOAD: Footcrab_VIP_swamp81.zip

We are still searching for more free giveaways, but for now the third and final of these downloads comes from Mele, who has given away recent Abandon Silence blog hit I Swear Down away for Christmas. Featuring some fantastic vocals and a 'drone' sound similar to the works of Deadboy, this one will get you shaking away your Turkey fat.

FREE DOWNLOAD: http://www.sendspace.com/file/5f7f7z

As a late addition, we have a fresh instrumental from Manchester based producer Numan. i've been following this guy for a while now, and was more than happy to hear that he had released this grime track 'Red' yesterday. It's a little different from his usual stuff, but is fantastic...

FREE DOWNLOAD: numan - red

Please enjoy, and as an extra Christmas treat we give you our (very early) prediction for our Track of 2011, courtesy of the 2010 winner, James Blake...

Zen Death Squad Interview

2010-12-21T16:24:00.004Z

After last month's contribution from Adam Armitage, Abandon Silence is proud to present a second new writer to the blog, Bear Pills. Bear is a Liverpool based DJ and producer who I believe will add an extra dimension to this blog - both in terms of output and quality.

So, here it is, Bear's interview with glitch outfit Zen Death Squad. Take it away Bear...

---

Zen Death Squad. Besides being one of the bad ass names I’ve ever heard, Zen Death Squad are a group of Glitch Hop/Wonky producers comin’ out of southern England. I discovered them a few months back when I first heard their remix Roger Troutman’s Superman. I decided to get in touch with them.

Abandon Silence (AS): Who is Zen Death Squad and how and when did it come in to fruition?

Zen Death Squad (ZDS): Zen Death Squad are three producers; Screenager, Halogen and Z-Whip. We all come from different musical backgrounds, but all started out in live bands, playing various instruments. We came up with the idea in the summer of 2008, after being inspired by the sound of the US West Coast Hip Hop scene that was blowing up around that time. Originally there were five of us, and it all started with a track called Awesome Patrol, which we all kind of threw at each other across the internet for a couple of months. As it developed, three of us took a more active interest and things went from there.

AS: Awesome Patrol, haha, what a title. How does the writing process go? Is there a process? What does your studio consist of?

ZDS: We use quite a lot of different stuff in the studio. A bunch of old amps, basses and guitars, a load of pedals and samplers. As for software, we use a combination of Logic, Cubase and Ableton Live.

As for writing process, there's no specific starting point. We generally just jam until we find something we like and build it up from there.

We play a lot of video games in the studio which inspire us musically. We feel our music is a cross pollination of Time Crisis and Sonic 2.

AS: Haha! Sounds like quite an organic process. If you could choose a Nintendo 64 or Xbox 360, what would it be?

ZDS: We are Megadrive till death.

AS: Haha, didn't see that one comin’! How do you guys play out? CDJs, Ableton, Serato...

ZDS: We like to keep things as live as possible. We only started playing shows this summer, so it's been a constant learning experience and we try to push things further with each set. We currently run Ableton Live with a couple of keyboards and a variety of other midi controllers. We're actually about to purchase more gear, so there'll be a bunch of new stuff integrated for the new year.

AS: Looking forward to it. What are your opinions on the student protests at the moment & the whole Con-Dem government in general?

ZDS: We all have our own views on it. It's been good to see people get motivated and organised enough to protest effectively. One thing we can all agree on is that David Cameron's face looks like it is made of runny cheese.

AS: Hahahaha! If you guys where to have cheese on toast would it be red, yellow or green cheese?

ZDS: Good question. After much consultation we have decided that no cheese is bad cheese. As long as it's cut in the shape of a triangle.

AS: Good answer. I am a cheddar and brown sauce on toast man myself.

What are your views on the electronic music scene right now? Particularly Dubstep, Wonky & Glitch Hop...

ZDS: It's a strong field right now. Everybody seems to be stepping up their game. It's great to see the sounds coming out all over the world, with everyone putting their own ideas and to a certain extent their cultural heritage into the music. There are people like Spoonbill in Australia, Eskmo in the States and Rustie over here in the UK who are creating incredible music, taking the sound in crazy new directions. The UK seems to be warming to the Glitch Hop sound and we are a excited to see what emerges from it.

AS: Spoonbill makes the craziest music! Who or what do you think played an important role in Glitch Hop in 2010 and who or what do you think everyone should keep their eye on for 2011?

ZDS: There have been so many highlights this year, to list a few: The Glitch Mob at Matter on the UK's best sound system. The proto-funk of Debruit. Guys like Flako and Comfort Fit with great records out there. Flying Lotus' Cosmogramma. Nosaj Thing at Plastic People in London was out of this world. iLL Gates also, through his music and his support for the community with his Ableton seminars.

As for next year, watch out for Virtual Boy from the States and Jai Paul from the UK.

AS: What can we expect from Zen Death Squad in 2011? Also, where the hell did the name come from?

ZDS: The name was actually suggested by a good friend and awesome dubstep producer we know.

2011 is looking pretty exciting. We're in talks to get some releases out there, both here and in the States. And after that, just a lot of shows. We just confirmed our first performance in Bristol for 2nd Feb, so are very excited to be heading to new places after a summer of festivals. Trying to line up some US shows for around March/April time, and then who knows? We'll have to see where we end up.

You can check out Zen Death Squad here:

http://zendeathsquad.bandcamp.com/

http://soundcloud.com/zendeathsquad

Keep an eye out as they will be releasing a new free track for Christmas!

NYE Line Up Announced

2010-12-09T06:02:00.009Z

Thank you to everyone that came to check out the Abandon Silence Best of 2010 Lists. We got some great feedback, even a retweet from the victorious Best Album Winner Flying Lotus. Over 5000 views in 3 days was, by sadly some distance, our greatest period of traffic ever! Thanks again to you all.

I am here to give you great tidings for this coming New Years Eve... We shall be hosting our own party! Well, we will be hosting the front INK room in Chibuku's legendary NYE party, to be held in The Masque, Seel St, Liverpool.

We are bringing back one of our favourite new producers of the year, MELE, for a third time to join our usual residents Rich Furness and Horza. As well as Mele, Rich and Horza, we have two new DJs coming along, Sheppard and Jake Daniel. Both have been on my imaginary waiting list for a long time, and I am so thrilled to finally be able to find a platform for these guys to party with us.

Abandon Silence NYE at Chibuku

MELE - Grizzly

Rich Furness

Horza

Sheppard

Jake Daniel

Firstly, we have Mele's latest release, I Swear Down, which is a fantastic grinding piece of 130 funky that evokes strong Deadboy vibes, but retains it's individuality.

Melé - I Swear Down by Melé

-----

And as a wee introduction to the two new guys joining us, here is a couple of mixes from the pair of them. I'm sure you'll agree that we have pulled these guys out of the top drawer to join us.

Both these mixes are available to download, just click on the arrow symbol to the right of the player...

Definition//Mix 2010 by SPD//SHEPPARD

Tracklist:

Horsepower Productions-HDN
Scratcha DVA-Jelly roll
Geiom-Eyl
Cosmin Trg-Since last night
Geiom ft marita-Sugar Coated Lover
Cooly G-Dis Boy
2562-Flashback
Sully-Sleazy
Pangea-Bear Witness
King Midas sound&Pupajim-Frequencies
Peverelist ft. Pinch-Revival
Addison Groove-Footcrab
Scuba-Three sided shape
Headhunter-In motion
Breakage-Higher
Commix-Bear Music
High Contrast-Tread softly
MRSA-Different
Spectrasoul-Mimic

Promo Mixtape (03-09-10) by Jake Daniel

Tracklist

Lusine - Two Dots [Pezzner Remix]
Minilogue - Second (Colour & Sound)
Johannes Heil & Extrawelt - Erdbeerfeld
Robert Babicz - Come Closer [Kollektiv Turmstrasse Remix]
Moonbeam - Run For Me
Marcel Dettmann - Reticle
Martyn & The Spaceape - Is This Insanity? [Ben Klock Remix]
Matt Walsh - Honey Comb [Sei A & Logan Remix]
Kevin Gorman - Shakey Stripped
Peter Van Hoesen - Terminal
Glimpse - Employable Enjoyable [Marcel Dettmann Remix]

-----

Playing in the Theatre room in The Masque will be a selection of Chibuku's 'Residents and Friends', including James Rand, Mark Mac, Paul McGuire, Revo and Mr Paul.

Mr Paul is a Liverpool based artist who has a residency with Chibuku and fantastic underground house night Discoteca Poca. This mix is a great exponent for his DJ skills and a good indication at the kind of sounds to expect on NYE!

Bisco by mrpaul7t7

Tracklist

Mark E - Smiling [White Label]
6th Borough Project - The Formula (Dub Vibes)
Chaz Jankel -Glad To Know You (Todd Terje Türkatech) [Permanent Vacation]
The Revenge ft Danielle Moore - Just Be Good To Me (Ron Basejam Remix) [Needwant Recordings]
Timmy P - We Had Disco
Johnny Dynell - Jamhot (Tensnake Remix) [Needwant Recordings]
Disco Channel - Honey (The Ground Floor Chicago's Reworks) [Little House]
Kevin Irving - Children Of The Night (Disco Bloodbath) [Disco Bloodbath]
Jamie Jones - Say What? [Hot Creations]
Russ Yallop - Rock Me [Crosstown Rebels]
MSTRKRFT ft N.O.R.E - Bounce (Maya Jane Cole Remix)
Model 500 - OFI [R&S Records]

Tickets are available at www.Chibuku.com/shop -- see you all down there

The Abandon Silence Best of 2010 lists

2010-12-05T20:48:00.005Z

When I approached the compilation of these two lists, I had a general idea as to what the top 5s were going to be. The problems came when decided which tracks to include and leave out, thus I extended my top 10 tracks to a top 25, though still several glaring omissions that I am finding it hard to live with.

When I started to think about creating this lists, I knew that James Blake had to be my number One. I restricted myself by deciding to include only one track per artist, and I just had to put the anthem in. CMYK is just a clarrion call for all that was good about UK music in 2010. This was the sound of an emerging artist finding his feet, but doing so miles ahead of his contemporaries. He is sure to take over 2011 with his vocal works.

Tracks -- (all are YouTube links)

1)James Blake - CMYK
2) Girl Unit - Wut
3) Mount Kimbie - Maybes
4) Foals - Spanish Sahara
5) Flying Lotus – Do the Astral Plane
6) Ramadanman – Glut
7) Kingdom – Fogs
8) Deadboy - If U Want Me
9) Skream/Instra:mental & D:Bridge - Acacia Avenue
10) White Ring - ixc999
11) Gil Scott Heron – New York is Killing Me (Jamie XX remix)
12) Balam Acab – See Birds
13) Sepalcure – The Warning
14)Jamie Woon – Night Air (Ramadanman remix)
15) Gold Panda - You
16) Datsik – Firepower (Moombahcore remix)
17) Burial - Prophecy
18) SX – Woo Riddim
19) Magnetic Man ft Katy B – Perfect Stranger (dBridge remix)
20) Pariah – Detroit Falls
21) Redlight ft Ms Dynamite – What You Talkin’ About
22) Swindle - Airmiles
23) MJ Cole & Wiley – From the Drop
24) Pangaea - Why
25) Joy Orbison – The Shrew Would Have Cushioned the Blow

The album list could easily just be the top 2 on their own, as FlyLo and Kanye's efforts were just streets ahead of the pack this year. No other albums got near to connecting with me and I will always remember 2010 for those two LPs. Notable mentions for the fantastic Mount Kimbie record, Four Tet creating his best album to date, Foals finding maturity within their glitchy indie pop, Arcade Fire stepping up yet again and two obscure record labels, Autonomic and Night Slugs, coming to the fore of 'UK Bass music'.

Albums

1) Flying Lotus - Cosmogramma
2) Kanye West – My Dark Twisted Fantasy
3) Mount Kimbie – Crooks & Lovers
4) Arcade Fire – The Suburbs
5) Four Tet – There is Love in You
6) Big Boi – Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty
7) Foals – Total Life Forever
8) Fabric Live 51 – Autonomic
9) Gorillaz – Plastic Beach
10) Night Slugs – Night Slugs Allstars

Please use the comments box below to vent your fury, or maybe even agree, with my decisions.

Jamie XX vs Gil Scott Heron

2010-11-29T17:23:00.002Z

There isn't a lot that needs to be said about this track. It is just fantastic. The break at 2:00 is the moment where I realised that I had to order the album there and then. Jamie XX has already proven himself to be a great producer with his work with his own band, and with this passion project he is more and more proving that he is the brains behind the whole operation.

Organik: In the Mix

2010-11-26T16:38:00.003Z

Tonight we will be giving you a fresh mix from one of the finest new DJs in Liverpool, Organik. Through running his superb club night Takeover, he has had support slots for Phaeleh, Submerse and loads others. This mix is an excellent exponent for his DJ sets, with an eclectic choice of tracks involved and some great mixing thrown in for good measure.

Take some time and have a listen, and find Organik at his Soundcloud

L15 Future Tense mix 04 by organik

Tracklist

Grown Ups - Donga & Blake (Well Rounded Records)
How U Like Dat - EL-B Vs. Laze (Night Audio)
Ur All - Modepth (dub)
Evelyn - Fantastic Mr Fox (Black Acre)
Boomslang - Lv & Okmalumkoolkat (Hyperdub)
Cervantis Riddim - C.R.S.T. (dub)
Crystalised - The XX (Dark Sky remix) (Young Turks)
Long Weekend - Fused Forces (L2S Recordings)
Bust Broke – Kingdom (Night Slugs)
Good Love –C.R.S.T. (No hats no hoods)
Finally – ital Tek (dub)
Spending All My Time – Kovu (dub)
Touched – Price (L2S Recordings)
Reasons – Dark Knight (Urban Riddims)
Chaka Mad – Gon (Infrasonics)
Never Know – Primary 1 (Submerse Remix) (dub)
Earthquake – Littleboots (Brown Noise Bootleg) (dub)

Mount Kimbie: An Interview

2010-11-16T19:13:00.002Z

This is a first for Abandon Silence, our first ever outside contributed article. Whilst I struggle with balancing final year of University, plus the rigours of a club night, I have decided to welcome a few extra writers on board to keep the blog going. Our first contributor is Adam Armitage, whose mix was featured in a previous post. At the Abandon Silence gig with Mount Kimbie, Adam was lucky enough to catch a few words with the guys, and here is his article and interview from that night. I hope you enjoy it and welcome Adam into the Abandon Silence family...

Last week I had the pleasure of watching Mount Kimbie perform live for the first time in my hometown, the grim n gritty, northern city of Liverpool. I hadn't expected that i would be able to get close to them prior to the show, but as I stood eagerly waiting for the support acts to finish over a pint and some conversation in the smoking area of The Shipping Forecast. In the corner of my eye, i spotted Kai talking to a fan and i became aware of the chance to conduct an impromptu pre-show interview, right then.

Dashing around to find writing material, I hastily penned some questions that had already dawned on my mind about Mount Kimbie.

So, conducted in the drafty storage room on the top floor of the club, (props to Abandon silence for the set-up), I held down my first interview.

Both Dom and Kai are seriously easy-going, friendly to talk to and very humble about their work despite such attention they have received over the last months. We began the interview and they were more than happy to talk and discuss the questions with me, but also with one another, bouncing questions back and forth between themselves that made them appear to be very passionate about what they do and interested in engaging with their fan base.

Abandon Silence (AS) 'I believe this is your first Liverpool show, have either of you been here before and how are you feeling about the show tonight?'

Mount Kimbie (MK) Kai answers on behalf of Dom, 'He's been here before for when he was younger with his mates I think, but I've not ever been here myself but I'm quite excited for tonight, the crowds are always different wherever you go in the UK', Dom responds, 'Yeah, I've not seen the place much though, it was winter time and really cold but strangely, still all the girls were wearing little clothing'. I laughed and told them that’s just how the girls are round here whatever the weather.

AS 'So, how is the tour going so far, this is your first organized tour right? Has it been a great experience?'

MK Kai answers, 'So far, the tour has been really successful, we've been doing a lot of shows around Europe and were quite surprised how popular they've been. We did a month long tour in the US and that was well received, a lot of the fans were grateful and always thanked us at shows, just in recognition of the distance we had travelled to play for them'. I then ask,

AS 'How do the shows across the water compare to playing here in the UK?'

MK Dom added, 'I don't think it was something we really expected, but the US was very accommodating, the live shows in the UK are getting better every time, the audiences are always a lot steadier here than overseas and it's good because it can be a difficult scene to break here, as so many decent artists are getting known at the moment.'

AS 'I've read an interview where you mention that some of the acoustics were recorded in a tunnel in Brighton where the natural reverb was really heavy, I had my assumptions that it would be the grotty underpass along the beachfront, is that right?'

MK At this point there is a slight pause, I get some rather bewildering looks from the two of them, they stare at each other and try to fathom an answer, I knew it was a stupid question to ask but Dom responds,

'You know, actually it was an underpass in my hometown Saltdean that gives off this really eerie impression, The both of us and James Blake were drinking one night and were singing when we ended up walking down there and were amused with the sound and then we came back a few weeks later with guitars and took down some recordings that really worked, so we used them'.

AS 'Do you have any favorite producers coming out of the UK scene at the moment, any particular DJs perhaps?'

MK Both Dom and Kai appear to be very selective of who they choose to name drop and I'm certain they must share very similar tastes as they both agree and mention almost simultaneously that they don't currently listen to much dubstep or dance music, but they do like Deadboy, which reminded Kai of something he had forgot to do earlier, and so he rushes off to get Deadboy on the guestlist for their show as apparently he was also in town. When Kai returns, Dom mentions,

'We've both been really keen on 'Wu Lyf' at the moment, a group from Manchester that are producing really good music, we are also into some bands from Australia', Kai Nods and adds, 'We're always updated on whatever James (Blake) is doing as well, we caught up with him at his show in Poland recently, he was mixing with vinyl as opposed to his live performance shows.'

AS 'I've heard a lot about the differences between James Blakes live shows and his DJ sets, many people I've spoke to say his live performances are much more interesting'.

MK Dom answers, 'I suppose James is a lot more technically able with using software like Ableton, obviously his shows are a lot tighter when he performs this way but his DJ sets are also getting a lot cleaner'.

'James Blakes output is multi-faceted, producing music under a different moniker as well as having a background in more traditional musical approaches, maybe it is what makes his performances different each time?'

Both Dom and Kai agree to this point, Dom adds 'James is also a very emotional musician, if he's not feeling up for a live show, he won't play it, he does what he feels like and if he's happy or sad, it comes out in his choice of performance'.

AS 'You both seem very close with James Blake personally, at once he featured in your live performances, is their ever going to be a return to this, are there any collaborations in stall for the future?'

MK Kai makes a point of saying that, 'Time constraints mean it's very difficult to work together at current times, we're no longer being able to pass music back and forth to work on ideas together, and as well James is very busy with his own music and touring, especially with the promo for his new album'. Dom adds, 'It's possible in the future we may do the live thing again, there's nothing planned so far for producing a track together though, but it will definitely happen'.

AS 'So, what's next for Mount Kimbie, what can we expect in the coming months?'

MK Dom says, 'Were having a few weeks off over the new year period but then we're back touring again up until end of February and then we will start to question what's next. So far though, we haven't got plans to be releasing anything over the next few months'.

I can tell Kai is itching to get back in the club, or at least to get a drink at this point and as he fiddles around with his phone, I manage to ask one last question.

AS 'What advice do you both have for new producers or DJs trying to break into the UK bass scene currently, how did it happen for you?'

MK Kai was very certain on his answer to this question and suggested that, 'If your consciously trying to 'break into' any scene, your probably going about it the wrong way, always do your thing, keep making music and performing for people, give it time and if your getting the elements right, people will take notice, but don't push it', Dom nods, and it's clear that there is a very clear unity in mind and ideas between them both.

Maybes - Mount Kimbie by funktional

The Future

2010-11-14T08:49:00.005Z

As we near the conclusion of what has been an unforgettable year, Abandon Silence now looks to 2011 and the musical delights waiting in store for us all.

Firstly, I have two artists that have been included on the pretty awesome Night Slugs label compilation being released on the 29th November. Jacques Greene and Optimum are two artists that I have found incredibly tricky to track down, though I have just been listening to these two tracks from each producer religiously for the last few days.

Jacques Greene's track here is The Look. The track is similar to the work of Lone (below) in it's uplifting and inaudible yet prominent vocal tracks. This tune could quite easily blow up on the back of the hype that this artist will gain from the compilation, we will have to wait and see...

LM007 - JACQUES GREENE - THE LOOK by Jacques Greene

The second artist to be included from the Night Slugs camp is Optimum. When I said that I have found it hard to track people down, I really do mean that this guy is hard. With such a generic name, it's pretty hard to just google 'optimum' and hope for the best (and yes I did try different connotations of the search, with no luck.)

Their track here is Watchmaker, very nostalgically embedded from Myspace (the best I could do, apologies.) This track is more like the works of other Night Slugs artists Girl Unit.The track at hand, Watchmaker is futuristic, glitchy, hip hoppy greatness. It's in the same bracket as artists like Flylo, who are just so god damn hard to put into a genre. Anywho, here is said fantastic track, enjoy...

Find more artists like Optimum at Myspace Music

Our next artist/s are sharing a joint award as it's a bit unfair to give whole awards to mates - I don't want to appear biast! The artists in question are Mele and Koreless. Both are local to me, and are both ridiculously sound. Both of them have performed at Abandon Silence shows, and both are set to take major leaps forward in 2011. Mele has had a hugely productive 2010, working his way into the upper echelons of the Grizzly imprint, being tutored by the label's head honcho Sinden has surely helped as well. With the release of a new EP in January on said label, Mele will really begin to turn heads, and we can't wait to be able to give a nice big cocky, "I told you so!" His personal style of productions fit in superbly with the UK's current trending towards funky and grime, and I believe he will be very successful.

Melé - Digits by Melé

Koreless, aka Lewis Roberts, is a welshman based in Scotland. I got to know Koreless through a mutual friend and I was instantly hooked his productions. He is currently working with Pictures Music, a fantastic new label owned by the also sound Alex Clapworthy, which is another label that you should keep your eyes on. For now, enjoy the fantastic Up Down Up Down and just let his music wash over you...

Up Down Up Down by Koreless

Now for another North West based artist - unlike the previous two artists, Lone is not an acquaintance, so I can unrecroachably say that this guy is just fantastic. I discovered Lone by wandering through into the back room of the Warehouse Project to have a breather from DMZ's obliteration of the main room. The track to stream here is called Outlander, and is a great exponent for the other productions that I have been lucky to get my ears on - in particular, look out for Raptured. The calypso Summer vibes are the perfect pick-me-up for this time of year, please check him out...

Lone - outlander by Lone

The final artist that I am going to be discussing as a potential future star is Krystal Klear. Having recently had his first release, on Manchester based Hoya Hoya Recordings, Krystal Klear is set for a major year. He uses chopped hip hop styles and the same feel good vibes portrayed by Lone to harness his own sound. Here we have his track Let's Go Dreaming, enjoy...

Lets Go Dreaming by KrystalKlear

Just to say, it is still November, so I am sure that I will do another feature in the style of this in January, though for now I am confident in all of my choices and I cannot wait to see each of them flourish and grow in stature as the weeks and months go by.

Abandon Silence 04

2010-11-05T03:09:00.004Z

As we enter a new month, a draft of work has been lifted onto me. I find myself stuck in dissertation hell, as well as organising next year's Abandon Silence line ups. We have successfully confirmed January and February's line ups, and you will be the first to know who we have in store.

Next month we turn our attention to Abandon Silence 04, featuring Breakage, Mele, Horza and Rich Furness.

This night promises to be the biggest Abandon Silence yet, I cannot wait to host the digital soundboy himself, as well as one of the countries most prodigious producers.

As well as the DJs, we have a fantastic artwork campaign. This is by far the most ambitious promo that we have ever used. Designer Ben Thapa has yet again excelled himself, and as I am sure you can see, his designs are unreal.

To play us out, here are a few select cuts from this month's guests...

CLICK ON THIS LINK FOR TICKETS TO ABANDON SILENCE O4

Breakage - Vial feat. Burial by spex

Prayin' (Breakage Remix) - Plan B by DanDubaholic001

Flexi - Melé by Melé

Thursday Night

2010-10-26T20:55:00.003+01:00

As you may have noticed, by looking at the fascia around this website, we have another nice event coming up this Thursday!

Abandon Silence 03 sees us heading back to The Shipping Forecast for another fantastic night of excellent tunes and great company. Joining us this time are the critically acclaimed Mount Kimbie, bringing their much anticipated LIVE show with them.

This show has had incredible ticket sales already, so anyone interested in coming down this coming Thursday, the 28th October, head to THIS LINK to by your tickets now.

To take us away, here are a lovely pair of tunes from the Kimbie boys themselves...

Maybes - Mount Kimbie by bearhug

Foals - Spanish Sahara (Mount Kimbie Remix) by musicmule

Chibuku reflections...

2010-10-15T17:04:00.007+01:00

As we roll ever nearer to Abandon Silence 03 featuring Mount Kimbie LIVE, Abandon Silence was invited very kindly to host a room at Chibuku last Saturday. We brought along Ramadanman, Horza, Kidheader and Grandav, and the rest is history. It was a hugely successful night, with our room competing avidly against the might of Hospital Records that was taking over the other 2 rooms in the building.

Abandon Silence would like to thank Lewis, Sean and Rich at Chibuku for giving us the opportunity to help with the hosting of the biggest club night in the North of England.

One of the enduring memories of the night came when Ramadanman pulled up this track, "Wut" by Girl Unit, twice. It had the crowd going wild! We cannot wait for this to be released on the great Night Slugs label in a couple of weeks time, we'll be copping it instantly. Sadly we can only give you YouTube quality for the time being, and it really doesn't do it justice, so just buy it when it comes out!

As a rumour starter, we have some plans for future Abandon Silence's that will hopefully include this incredibly talented producer...

GIRL UNIT Guest Mix for Mary Anne Hobbs on Radio 1 by GIRLUNIT

As an extra gift, here are a few photos from Saturday - taken as ever by the brilliant Robert Keith Seeley...

(if you want to see all of them, go to this link)

Tonights Plans

2010-10-09T15:53:00.003+01:00

Abandon Silence is incredibly proud to present.. Ramadanman at Chibuku tonight. Chibuku is arguably Liverpool's most prestigious club night, and we are so happy to have been offered the chance to work alongside these guys in the creation of a night. In the Abandon Silence room will be Ramadanman, Horza, Kidheader and Grandav. We are incredibly excited about this one, we hope you can all make it!

Ramadanman - Work Them by blackacid

Just to get your juices flowing, here is a review I wrote about the relaunch party for Chibuku on the 18th September...

Chibuku 18th Sept

Benga, Claude Von Stroke, Joker, Four Tet, Jamie XX, Brackles

The Masque, Seel St

Chibuku. To the unitiated, this just sounds like a Kenyan tribe or the mumblings of a mad man, but to the clubbers of Liverpool, it’s a calling. After a Summer hiatus, The Chibuku bandwagon rolled into town, beating away fresh competition left, right and centre to relaunch with record ticket sales and a new drive for, “fresh and new line ups.”

I have heard grumblings that Chibuku is not fresh, for they say it has the same line ups over and over again. However, if Chibuku were to stop hiring the likes of Skream, Benga, Erol Alkan et al, they would be compromising their supremacy over the Liverpool electronic music scene. These artists are the best in the world, so there really is no need to gripe.

To combat these silly grumblings, the INK bar in The Masque has become the key place for the introduction of fresh artists. Tonight saw FOUR TET, JAMIE XX and BRACKLES all making their Chibuku debuts. In the coming months, other new faces such as Joy Orbison, Ramadanman, Roska and Tensnake will be heading into the old ‘bar’ room to make their respective debuts.

This is a sign of the times as these more underground artists are being given a platform at the biggest stage of them all in Liverpool, and as tonight has shown, people will listen. Brackles opened the INK bar tonight to a huge crowd, much more than I had expected. It is a great indication of the musical tastes of Liverpool that such a little recognised but hugely talented producer can muster such a crowd.

In contrast to the fresh faces populating the INK room, the Theatre had a familiar feel to it as Chibuku veteran CLAUDE VON STROKE returned once again to the hallowed stage. Von Stroke seemed to really enjoy his set, with classics Who’s Afraid of Detroit? and Deep Throat going down incredibly well. His eclectic set was one of the highlights of the whole night, but could not match the bass heavy antics taking place in the overly crowded Loft.

Being a warm up DJ at a huge night such as Chibuku must be one of the hardest musical jobs you could think of. For one, you must avoid playing anything that would clash with one of the big names’ sets later in the night for fear of incurring their wrath. And also, quite obviously, you must play to such a standard that the crossover from ‘resident DJ’ to ‘Name DJ’ is not noticeable.

Tonight’s ‘Name DJs’ were BENGA and JOKER. Joker, seen as one of the rising stars in bass music, was over half an hour late for his set, and despite the great efforts of his MC, NOMAD, he just could not connect with the crowd. Joker played some big tunes, such as his own remix of The Gossip’s Cruel Intentions and Trolley Snatcha’s ruthlessly powerful Here We Go, but due to his own poor punctuality, Chibuku had only half an hour to get a feel of what this guy is capable of, and you could feel that just wasn’t long enough.

Following on from Joker’s brief tenure was Benga. Fresh off the success of his major label Magnetic Man works and the top 5 smash Katy on a Mission, his set had a more celebratory feel. MC YOUNGMAN gave some great additional vocals, in particular when performing his own Benga collaboration, Ho. His set ran on well past the 3am curfew, but few seemed to notice as the crowd continued to sway and bounce to the tunes being showcased inside the Loft. Benga’s set was absolutely terrific; a great exposition for the man as a producer, with a great mixture of his own tracks and a well thought out selection of other tracks from, amongst other, Skream, Flux Pavilion and Breakage.

However, the best performance of the whole night came from the previously mentioned warm up DJ, RICH FURNESS. Despite appearing to be way too far gone to even be allowed near a set of decks, his set was a cataclysm of music, taking in gabba, dubstep, house, reggae and a few things in between. Seemingly intent on causing as much havoc as possible, the endless stream of ‘pull ups’ added to the atmosphere, giving everyone a chance to relive each huge drop. The plunge in BPM from his usual 140 areas to the slower Munch Moombahcore remix of Datsik’s Firepower was a showing of perpetual DJ Skills that didn’t go overlooked, as that track received possibly the biggest cheer of the whole night.

On current evidence, Liverpool’s electronic music scene is slowly sloping over a plateau of saturation. However, on the evidence of tonight, and also with an eye on the line ups planned for Chibuku this Autumn, we are all in safe hands whilst the night with the oddest name lives on.

James Blake: An Interview

2010-09-29T01:00:00.011+01:00

Abandon Silence would like to wish a huge thank you to everyone that attended our show last Thursday at The Shipping Forecast in Liverpool. It was an absolutely huge success, with James Blake's headline set striking such a precedent for this Autumn that it is hard to imagine anyone beating it. Further thanks are given to our fantastic residents, Rich Furness and Horza, who once again absolutely killed The Shipping Forecast. Their opposing styles but awesome DJ skills make them residents that we are very proud to call our own. Guest KillaHurtz also deserves special mention for working through the tough test of following on from James Blake, which he handled superbly.

Luckily we were able to catch a few words with the man himself about the release of his new EP, Klavierwerke, out on R & S Records on the 10th October. It is pretty interesting to see his views on his own categorisation and the motives behind some of his decisions. We have also been able to, via FactMag, include audio of the title track of the new EP. I hope you enjoy, here is a picture of me looking very smug with James Blake, plus a few nice pictures from the evening below. To see all 129 pictures taken by the brilliant Robert Keith Seeley, click here.

So, here goes...

Abandon Silence (AS) : First and foremost, did you enjoy your Liverpool debut last Thursday? The Abandon Silence crowd seemed to really enjoy your set.

James Blake (JB) : I loved it yeah. It was nice to make my Liverpool debut and was chuffed at how open minded and nice people were, before during and after the set.

AS: We are fast approaching the release of your second EP with R&S records, titled Klavierwerke. How does this EP differ from any of your previous releases?

JB: I started to use my vocals (albeit in adulterated forms) a bit more candidly on this EP, so I feel a really strong connection with the music. Secondly, the piano samples are from the same recordings, not separated but equally bastardised and manipulated. I fell in love with the sound of the piano again on this EP, but this time in an electronic context.

AS: When you approached the creation of the Klavierwerke EP, which records/artists influenced you? Are these the same artists that influenced all of your work so far?

JB: I think the track that brought me to this new sound was 'Baves Chords' by mount kimbie, and possibly certain beatless burial tracks. I wrote Klavierwerke in a slightly different headstate, with memories of Berghain fresh in my mind.

AS: Klavierwerke is your second release with R&S records, as you help with it's remarkable re-emergence. What attracted you to work with them? Im sure there were other offers..

JB: The two EP's are so different that it takes a label like R&S, with their huge range of output, to release them consecutively without hesitation. I was excited to work with them because they've been reborn, and their reputation precedes them. Their audience base is also really diverse, which means it's reaching people that might not otherwise have heard it. I'm good friends with all the labels i've released on and I send them all my new stuff, so it's a matter of where it fits really.

AS: How did it feel to have your first full solo EP release, CMYK, given universal acclaim by critics? Had you expected it?

JB: I just wanted to make a track that brought out the euphoria i'd experienced listening to pangaea and joy orbison sets, and in doing so I made something that took on a life of it's own.. A while later it was incredibly surreal to hear it on Radio 1 and the like, but then the day i'm not suprised, humbled and delighted by people liking my music might be a very sad day.

AS: On the tracks that you have released, there has been a great variety in moods and atmospheres. Do you pick and choose your styles from production to production, or is it just natural?

JB: It sounds obvious but whatever I'm feeling at the time should be captured, or I'm doing something dishonest. Therefore the atmosphere is always changing and my music (like life) goes through phases.

AS: You appear to have been placed into the 'dubstep' genre. With such a difference between your music and the productions of other 'dubstep' artists such as, say, Borgore, how does it feel to be categorised side by side with such opposing sounds?

JB: I like to think I placed myself in the dubstep genre. When I started doing it I was listening to Mala, Coki and later Mount Kimbie, none of which are really categorised side by side with people like Borgore. I'm happy to play nights alongside people like Borgore because for me, opposing sounds make interesting nights, and make it easier for my music to have a clear shot at the runway.

AS: Finally, I ask all artists that I interview this question, which three records are you loving right now?

JB:
Joanna Newsom - Have One On Me
Tallest Man on Earth - The Wild Hunt
An unnamed dub by Blawan who released on Hessle, and who is one of my favourite new producers

Finally we would like to thank James wholeheartedly for being an excellent guest at Abandon Silence last Thursday. It was a huge success and was most certainly memorable in part for his epic set.

James Blake - Klavierwerke (128) by factmag

Thursday Night

2010-09-21T19:10:00.005+01:00

In one last shameful plug for the club night, here once again are the details, along with some very nice tunes from the headliner himself, James Blake.

Abandon Silence 02

Thursday 23rd September 10pm - 3am at The Shipping Forecast, Slater St, Liverpool.

James Blake

KillaHurtZ

Rich Furness

Horza

£5 advanced tickets available at http://www.skiddle.com/events/11386301/

£6 on the door

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=117813361604398&ref=mf

Please come along and show your support. I am trying to push something fresh for Liverpool and have some killer line ups planned before Xmas so get involved now!

James Blake - CMYK by S>A

James Blake - Measurements by user39221

James Blake - CMYK by Nubs

White Russia

2010-09-13T17:24:00.002+01:00

Ill be honest with you, one of the oddest things to happen since creating this blog has been the endless stream of emails I receive about new bands/DJs/producers. At the start, I thought this was excellent, getting told about new artists all the time. However, after a while it gets quite grating hearing the same music over and over again in (VERY) varied quality.

I do listen to all of the emails I receive, thought to be honest most don't fit with what I'm after. However, I recently got an email about White Russia, a new band from South London who are apparently influenced by Bjork and Depeche Mode. I would not usually be interested in this style of music, but one particular track I was linked was just superb.

The Solution has a slow burning intro, with some great vocals. At around the 1:20 mark the bass and percussion kick in to create a fantastic crescendo. This track is excellent, I recommend that you check these guys out while they're fresh...

http://www.myspace.com/whiterussiamusic

White Russia - The Solution by White Russia

Pariah - Safehouses EP : A Review

2010-09-08T14:47:00.005+01:00

I apologise for the recent lack of posts, the impact of running the club night has affected all aspects of my life, with the blog one of many things having to take a step back. However, despite the rigours of organising these nights, I have still been downloading a steady stream of new music - undeniably most of it isn't that great, with many tracks being deleted almost as soon as Ive got them on my iTunes, but still every now and then something just blows me away.

The track(s) in question come from Pariah. I have been clucking for his Safehouses EP since it was first announced back in July, and I finally copped a digital version via eMusic earlier today. The EP is just deliriously beautiful, with some hip hop, 2step and dubstep thrown into a very classy mixing pot. I have decided to ditch the usual brief review style and I will administer a thorough seeing to to each of the six tracks to be found on the EP. Partly because I cannot pick a single track that deserves special mention. (and also that I am back at Uni next week and need to get back into writing.)

So, here goes....

First track The Slump is a delicious little slice, with some great spindley percussion building towards an undoubtedly Untold influenced bass lead drop. It is really a very sparse affair for the opening, before a cascade of percussion, synths and vocals come to join in. The track is an excellent opener for the EP, setting such a quality that the other tracks fight to keep up with.

The Slump is quickly followed by Prism, which begins as your typical 130 banger. However, at around 90 seconds in, the track takes on a different form and evolves into a slow build featuring some epically peaceful chopped and looped vocals, which cascade throughout the peaceful beat, leading to a final breakdown featuring the previously mentioned 130 beats, which are suddenly a lot more bearable. Possible EP highlight, this could go on to rival Joy Orbison as a crossover into DJ sets in almost any genre.

Railroad, the third track on Safehouses, greets us with a subtly complicated 2step vocal led introduction. A very crafty drum build is flitted in and out of the beat, giving the impression of some 'Filth' drop is around the corner. Thankfully that is just a phase and it all collapses into some very James Blake styled majoratively synth based 2step. A very dreamy track, the 2step really compliments the vocals and layered synths, creating probably the most atmospheric track here.

Crossed Out is another track around the 130 bpm area, with a similar style to the opening/closing beat from The Slump evident throughout. Despite my seemingly negative approach to it's pressence in The Slump, in the habitat created by Pariah in this track, the fast paced beat seems right at home here. There are some teasing vocals that are dispersed across the song, and also some great side partings of ambience that recall the opening of Joy Orbison's 2009 classic Hyph Mngo, before resuming back into the very choppy vocals. Easiest description would be a funky update of last EP highlight, Orpheus, however I feel that it required a more in depth description.

With the penultimate track, C Beams, Pariah takes us on a musical journey to FlyLo, Dilla, Madlib via his own track, Detroit Falls and Bristolian Joker. The vast drop in bpm is noticeable, but not worried about, some very Zomby-like skittley jabbing synths carry the expansive beat along it's path. Some wailing vocals are welcomed to bring some light to this increasingly dark track, before some Balam Acab style bass jumps are stabbed in. The purple sounding synths seem to work so well at this speed, that it is a wonder that Joker, Peverelist or Pinch haven't considered attempting this. (If they have and Ive missed it, apologies.) The pianos that introduce the track are worthy of making this track on a par with Prism as the EP highlights.

The final cut, Safehouses, is a beatless wonder. With no discernable drum beat to follow, a lot of responsibility is placed upon the ambience and atmosphere that Pariah is able to muster. This skill was sublimely done by Skream on his recent LP opener, Perforated. This song most reminds me of the sea. I know that appears to be some pretentious arty thing to say, but it really does. The waves of reverb that loop are sublime, creating an emotional soundscape. To say that this track really doesn't switch or drop or change in all of its 4 minutes and 11 seconds without me getting even slightly bored, is a testament in itself to the production skills of Pariah.

So, R&S continue their 100% record with UK bass music since their relaunch in 2008. After getting releases from Pariah and James Blake, they firmly have their finger on the pulse of UK Electronic music. This EP should make a name out of Pariah. If DJs are willing to give his tracks a go, I believe that certainly Prism should become a danceflooor hit. If not, Pariah will still have his own supporters who will stay faithful as long as he continues to bring such amazing music to our ears.

RS1005 - Pariah - Safehouses by R & S Records

Fresh James Blake! Thank God!

2010-08-29T04:33:00.007+01:00

Via James Blake's Facebook profile....

James Blake Coming soon --> Klavierwerke EP on R&S Records --> 27/09/10

Some fantastic news there from James Blake, I've been eagerly awaiting some fresh material from him - CMYK was too much too soon, its been hard trying to handle these last few months with no fresh Blake to live by. Luckily, I also found this fresh slice of goodness when perusing Soundcloud.

More in a vocal direction, as it is thought his forthcoming LP will be, I Never Learnt to Share is just simply astounding. With some great jazz/soul vocals from the man himself, musically it appears to be similar to CMYK for it's desserted and chopped approach, until a majorly heavy drop comes out of the blue at 1:28. Pure screechy fire from James Blake, something I really thought I would never say. However, he still manages to keep it subtly original and recognisable as his own production by keeping half time switches and some great strings. I cannot recommend this enough, and while your listening, why not book tickets to see him live at Abandon Silence 02 this September in Liverpool?

ps This is in no way a plug for the show, this tune is just plain incredible and HAD to be shared.

James Blake - I never learnt to Share by spacehappens

Abandon Silence Autumn Dates

2010-08-28T14:24:00.010+01:00

Abandon Silence 02

Thursday 23rd September

JAMES BLAKE -- hessle/hemlock/r&s
KillaHurtZ -- naiive/foul play
Horza -- squiggles
Rich Furness -- chibuku

£5 tickets at http://www.skiddle.com/events/11386301/
£6 on the door

join the guestlist at http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=117813361604398&ref=mf

Abandon Silence Presents... ink at CHIBUKU

Saturday 9th October

RAMADANMAN -- hessle
Horza -- squiggles
Kidheader -- ampersand
Grandav -- yam yams

also performing in different rooms are Shy FX, High Contrast, Andy C, Nero and Netsky to name a few.

join the guestlist and buy tickets at http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=142183352486640&ref=ts

Abandon Silence 03 - Saturation Point non-Dubstep night

Thursday 28th October

MOUNT KIMBIE -- hotflush
Rich Furness -- chibuku
Horza (Grime set)-- squiggles
Dalema (Hip Hop set) -- sessions

£6 tickets available at http://www.skiddle.com/events/11389605/
£7 on the door

Abandon Silence 04 - End of Year/ 21st Celebrations

Thursday 25th November

BREAKAGE -- digital soundboy
special guest tba
Rich Furness -- chibuku
Horza -- squiggles

tickets available OCTOBER

Chibuku vs Abandon Silence

2010-08-28T01:24:00.003+01:00

Abandon Silence is proud to announce the second of our Autumn dates, as we host the INK room at Chibuku on October the 9th.

Playing will be the owner of the best name in music, Ramadanman, with local support from the ever present Horza, Irishman Kidheader and weird Brummy Grandav (2nd best name in music definitely Dav).

With other rooms at Chibuku hosting sets from High Contrast, Nero, Andy C and Shy FX, its set to be a memorable one. To celebrate this huge evening of events, Kidheader has put together a mix exclusively for Abandon Silence. Taking in massive dubstep from Tek One, reggae vibes from the fantastic Babylon System and some very nice chilled vibes from Breakage, this is a great exhibition for Kidheader's DJ skills.

Check it out, then come along on the 9th October and see him live. Link for more details forthcoming, but for now see all the Chibuku Autumn listings here.

Kid Header Abandon Silence Mix by Kid Header on Mixcloud

TICKETS OUT NOW

2010-08-24T03:15:00.003+01:00

After previously revealing the line up details for Abandon Silence 02, we are happy to give you a link so you can bag yourself some tickets.

To repeat ourselves, the line up is:

JAMES BLAKE - hessle audio/R&S/hemlock

KillaHurtZ - foul play

Rich Furness - Chibuku

Horza - Squiggles

tickets available by clicking right where this text is...

Lil Wayne - A Milli (James Blake Harmonimix) by KaL!

James Blake - Footnotes by subraw

Celebratory Post.

2010-08-10T21:34:00.003+01:00

I must congratulate each and every one of you that came on to check out my review of Skream's album, Outside the Box. It has been by far the best received post on the blog, with over a thousand hits coming in the first day. I am very proud of the review, despite it's brief nature, and it is still on the first page of Google when you search for 'Skream Outside the Box review' - I am immensely proud.

So, back to the music. I have today completed my resit exams for Uni as I have been a dunce. Despite the boring revision riddled last week, one track has held me together. I know very little about this guy, just that he was in NME about 2 months ago and I took no notice, then I caught a listen in a live set by Mount Kimbie and my jaw dropped. This track is just huge, listen to it, find it, buy it.

Jai Paul -BTSU (stream)
Jai Paul - BTSTU Master 06 01 10 320k by Jai Paul

Skream - Outside The Box: A Review

2010-08-03T16:46:00.009+01:00

Today I have decided to put together a brief review of Skream's new LP, Outside the Box. Please forgive me for the rather small review, I am meant to be revising for a resit next week! I hope you agree with my opinions, but if you don't, please give your reasons in the comments box at the bottom.

The album itself comes out this Monday, the 9th August, on Tempa Recordings. It is a fantastic LP, taking in many different styles and genres on it's way. As I am trying to keep it brief, I have just given a small review of each individual track.

Perforated

Despite having no discernible beat to it, the popping synths and mountains of reverb make this an emotional introduction.

8 Bit Baby (featuring Murs)

Nice light production, but is really let down by the vocals.

“Guess who came through the front door bangin//

one leg up on the speaker nuts hangin... danglin.”

Err.. I guess it is quite fitting that the weak point of the whole album is a guest appearance.

CPU

Real grower. On first listen appears immature and underdeveloped. When given further attention, however, you see past the incessant vocals and begin to admire the ebbs and flows of the track. Some old school Nintendo sounding keys are subtly brilliant as well

Where You Should Be (featuring Sam Frank)

My personal favourite track. Great sub bass punches every 4 bars aide the tracks introduction before the vocoded voice of Sam Frank punctures the beautiful instrumental. Purple vibes run throughout, counter acted by some pretty deep vocals, the track has the emotion and epic nature to push it beyond anything else on the LP.

How Real (featuring Freckles)

Again some vocoded vocals. Not as great as the previous track, but still huge. The crashing cymbals transport the track along it's duration, with some key synths and subs joining in to herald each passing chorus. The chopped vocals on the chorus are superb as well.

Fields of Emotion

A trade mark Skream dancefloor smash. Quite simple production is used to great effect, minimal percussion that take a back step for the synths and heavy stabs of 'wobble bass.' Just wait for the final drop, the reverbed wobbles are just fantastic.

I Love The Way

The most 'commercial' track on the record, to say it reminds of Labrinth's production could be taken as a positive or negative. An un-attributed vocal, I presume a sample, is used to great effect in 'I Love the Way'. Some brooding synths and a nice breakbeat bring the track along to an epic dnb style crescendo that is well worth the wait.

Listenin’ To The Records On My Wall

We all know this track, the Amen loops and great 'Midnight Request Line' style delays. It's a great club track that would get almost any crowd going.

Wibbler

The hardest track on the record. Constant metallic 'wobbles' accompanied by hard hitting drum patterns force the track on. Subtle alterations in chord and tempo keep you guessing and keep you interested.

Metamorphosis

At 85 BPM, this is another Autonomic style production, similar to Reflections. The track begins some different and intriguing drum patterns joined by rumbling sub bass before at around 90 seconds a great swirling synth track and slight 'wobbles' slide in to create a great concoction of noise that Skream does very well to handle.

Finally (featuring La Roux)

Skream received quite heavy flak from other blogs for this track when it leaked recently, I disagree. In my opinion the vocals fit superbly with the track. Her high pitched calls fit very nicely with Skream's forboding and quite stripped production.

Reflections (featuring D:Bridge & Instra:Mental)

As with Acacia Avenue (No.3 on our Tracks of the Year so far), Skream brings in D:Bridge and Instra:Mental to help with the production. Some fantastic breakdowns and interesting drum patterns as usual from the Autonomic crew.

A Song For Lenny

Very similar to the opening track, with some nice keys and strings, again a very emotional track. Ties in with Perforated to create what I'd call the logical end of the album...

The Epic Last Song

Hearing this track I had the impression that A Song for Lenny was originally the conclusion to the record, but I guess Skream opted to end with an upbeat banger. I kept that belief as the track rattles along, appearing to go nowhere until around the 2:30 mark it breaks down and begins a build up to an epic and fitting finale to the record.

Skream - Where You Should Be Ft. Sam Frank by iroel

Skream - Finally feat. La Roux by bissnyytaa

Questions...

2010-08-02T05:39:00.004+01:00

I am more excited for this film than any other, does that make me a geek?

One to Watch: MyCassetteTapes

2010-08-01T02:23:00.003+01:00

Today AbandonSilence introduces a brand new and fresh artist to you, his name is 'My Cassette Tapes.' All I know about this guy is that he is called Andrew Bowers and he is from Manchester, England. Also I know that this track is just epic! (Wait for 2 mins 30. PURE FIRE!)

The Gunman by MyCassetteTapes

AbandonSilence Extended Dubstep Mix DOWNLOAD

2010-07-24T16:56:00.002+01:00

Yes, indeed it is that time again, AbandonSilence has long lost hope of retaining a 'Fortnightly Mix' series. So, instead we have made a rather extended 37 minute mix with all of our favourite tunes on it. As you listen, the tracklist pops up as comments. If that's not enough, the tracklist is written below it.

It took me a long time to decide on the tracklisting for this, and I admit that there are some mistakes in here (Mixing, whole tunes being played, etc.)

But still, I hope you appreciate this mix and enjoy it as much as I have enjoyed creating it.

Peace

AbandonSilence Extended Dubstep Mix July 2010 by AbandonSilence

Tracklist

Project Bassline - Twelfth Step (Herve Remix)

Skream - Where You Should Be

Benga - Stop Watching

Dansette Junior - Paranoid

Caspa - Terminator (Trolley Snatcha Remix)

Mount Kimbie - Maybes (James Blake Remix)

Skream - Minimalistix

KillaHurtZ - Skank With A Redstripe

Skepta- Rescue Me (Mele Remix)

>>>>>>>>Tempa T - Next Hype

Ginz - Oreo

Breakage - Together

MIA - Born Free (12th Planet Remix)

Magnetic Man - MAD

DJ Fresh - Fight

Skream - What Did He Say?

Magnetic Man - I Need Air

Benga - Baltimore Clap

Professor Green & Lily Allen - Good to Green (Joker Remix)

2 New Skream. Overload!

2010-07-24T16:24:00.003+01:00

After the previous posts attack of the ZIP files, I have decided to take it down a few notches with a couple of nice streaming attacks, one youtube, one soundcloud.

The music today comes courtesy of the increasingly poppy Magnetic Man and a third of that group, Skream.

Despite almost universal previous belief that they would be an underground phenomenon, recent released tracks I Need Air and this track, Perfect Stranger, have revealed that they are in fact aiming for the charts.

This may sound bad, but I say to you, who else would you prefer to take dubstep to the masses than three of the 'original's?

Here is Perfect Stranger featuring great guest vocals from Katy B;

Skream ft Sam Frank - Under The City Lights (TEASER) by SKREAMIZM

Free Ish

2010-07-22T18:19:00.005+01:00

Its been an incredible 48 hours for LEGAL FREE downloaders. Firstly, Rusko released part 1 of his 'Lost Dubs' tracks. And then, just a day later, Skream dropped the third of his Freeizm series.

Rusko's Lost Dubs appear to be very rushed. No indexing on the track names, mis-matched volumes, these appear to have been pritt sticked together. Nonetheless, there are some big tracks here. A unique version of The Girl From Codeine City being the definite highlight.

Download Link: http://www.sendspace.com/file/bo5kbg

Tracklist

1 gully flute

2 rusko-gyal-dem inna codine style

3 japes yeah

4 jump up

5 red eye (live mix)

6 snes dub 2

Freeizm is a whopping 9 track EP, with some absolute gems from down the years. As with Rusko's compilation, there is no time for nicely indexed tracks, just an amalgamation of tunes that must have just popped into Skream's head as he went to upload. In particular Meta Lick and Pick Ya Knees Up are superb.

Download Link : http://www.sendspace.com/file/ct4p90

Tracklist

1.Behind The Curtain

2.Meta-Lick

3.Rollin

4.Metal Mouth

5.Pick Ya Knees Up

6.Geeneus-Now Is The Time-Skreamix

7.Geiom-Reminissin-Skream's Tribal 44 mix

8.Lets Go Fucking Mental

9.Dr.Blue and The Time Travellers - Dr.Who Dub - Skreamix

Helping Friends Out...

2010-07-20T20:19:00.002+01:00

Today Abandon Silence has decided to be a nice guy, were giving out love to our friends. These mixes come from Adam Armitage and David Clinton; two friends of Abandon Silence with very different musical styles.

Firstly we have Adam Armitage's mix which is a fantastic collection of tracks from post dubstep artists like Deadboy, Sbtrkt and Martyn. For the time being a tracklisting is unavailable, but we will repost with it once we have found one! This mix is just brilliant and has been taking prime position in the communal Fiesta's soundsystem.

Dustymix 5 by EARTHCHILD

David Clinton is in fact a former flatmate of Abandon Silence, and he DJ'd at AbandonSilence01 under the moniker of DJ Grandav. This mix is in a more up tempo style, featuring DJ Madskillz, Emanuel Kosh and Mendo.

Davey C Summer MIX.mp3 by Dave_Clinton

1. Emanuel Kosh - Make My Music (Original Mix)
2. Discodonk - Borino Oro (Original Mix)
3. Christian Alvarez feat. JoLeon Davenue - Hands In The Air (The Good Guys Remix)
4. Filthy Rich - Deeper (Original Club Mix)
5. Florian Kruse and Nils Nurnberg - Lovers N Fighters (DJ Madskillz Remix)
6. Noir & Westboy - She S Got My Heart (Original Mix)
7. Loko - Disco Hamster (Original mix)
8. Fatboy Slim - Weapon of Choice 2010 feat. Lazy Rich (Original Mix)
9. Mendo - Morena (Original Mix)
10. Phonat - Set Me Free (Matt Nugent Remix)

AbandonSilence02 Details

2010-07-16T21:17:00.003+01:00

We are proud to announce the details of AbandonSilence02!

On Thursday September 23rd, AbandonSilence will be heading across Liverpool to a new venue, The Shipping Forecast, to take over their downstairs clubroom. With only a 120 capacity, we recommend arriving as early as possible!

Our headliner will be the hottest property in electronic music, and recent winner of 'Best New Artist' and 'Best Track' of 2010 in the AbandonSilence poll, James Blake!

Joined by Manchester badaman KillaHurtz, local legend Rich Furness and historically heroic Horza, this is set to be an amazing evening!

September 23rd 10pm-3am

The Shipping Forecast, Slater St, Liverpool

Artists

James Blake

KillaHurtz

Rich Furness

Horza

£6 entry

New Benga/Katy B Video

2010-07-12T05:33:00.003+01:00

After our previous' post's much maligned obscene outburst as to the awesome nature of Magnetic Man's movements to mass mainstream magnificence, I thought I'd just let you know that better is out there for the population. These comparisons are made solely on what you would call 'mainstream dubstep', i.e that that is produced with the aim of getting into the charts, getting onto people's ringtones, getting played in normal clubs, yes it really does sound shit doesn't it.

However,this tune is pretty good, and after 'I Need Air' is another that should go big, I'm talking top 20. After Rusko's Hold On became a somewhat odd clarrion call for the return of UKG, Benga's new track 'On A Mission' featuring Katy B just takes that idea and runs with it. After first hearing it on Caspa's FWD live set a month or so ago, it has resurfaced through this fantastic video seemingly filmed at Matter. See how many cameos you can spot; we have found Skream, Dread MC, FlowDan, Geeneus and Sbtrkt so far, let us know if you get anymore. Only time will tell as to how big this tune gets. Anywho, for now, here you go....

Halfway Point Awards

2010-06-10T18:37:00.008+01:00

As we reach the end of June, AbandonSilence has decided to take a celebratory look back at the previous six months of 2010. It seems an age ago, back in January, when I decided to create this music blog. It has slowly grown and now is well established, for that I thank all of you readers. The lists below are my own personal opinion, so I apologise for any problems that you may have with these lists. If you disagree, plleeeease feel free to vent your own opinions with a comment, I promise to reply to each and every one. Thanks again, AbandonSilence.

Top 3 Albums

1)Flying Lotus - Cosmogramma == no competition, a masterpiece in cross genre production

2) Foals - Total Life Forever == the best indie record of the year, moving away from the 'Math Rock' of Antidotes has seen Foals mature into a terrific band

3) Gorillaz - Plastic Beach == just the complete record, Bobby Womack's two guest spots take this away from the crowd

Top 3 Tracks (right click on link, open new tab for Download - no CMYK dload available sorry)

1) James Blake - CMYK == recent addition, but just one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard

James Blake - CMYK by jdillon89

2) Deadboy - If U Want Me == heard this live so many times since it's release earlier this year, the droning sound at first appears irritating but in fact is genius, guiding the track along it's awesome duration

3) Skream/Instra:mental & D:Bridge - Acacia Avenue == autonomic. is. amazing.

Top 3 Remixes

1) Zomby - Float (Skreamix) == first released in 2009, but I only heard it in 2010, just miles ahead of any other remixes I have heard.

2) Goldie - Inner City Life (Sbtrkt timeless edit) == the ultimate chill out track, 6 minutes of epic bliss

3) Emika - Double Edge (Pinch Remix) == nice old style dubstep, just simply a great remix that adds layers and atmosphere to an already fantastic cut.

Top 3 Artists to Emerge in 2010

1) James Blake == so much potential, gaining hype from all sides, AbandonSilence hopes he can follow up the CYMK EP with equally great music

2) Sbtrkt == coming from no where, the anonymous Sbtrkt has had a fantastic 6 months, with some great remixes and brilliant releases.

3) Deadboy == I know very little about this guy, but since I heard U Cheated in January I have been blown away with everything that has come since.

Disappointment Award

Rusko -OMG == Had the potential to be THE crossover, but instead was a childish, unsophistiated mish-mash of good ideas in the wrong hands.

Return of the West Head

2010-06-07T14:19:00.004+01:00

"Lost In Translation with a whole Fuckin Nation/ I was the abomination of Obama's Nation/ Well that's a pretty bad way to start a conversation."

Enough said. Kanye is back.

DOWNLOAD;

Kanye West - Power

LISTEN;

Kanye West featuring Dwele - Power by Hypetrak

An Interview with Starkey

2010-06-05T19:13:00.003+01:00

AbandonSilence was recently given the honour of interviewing the US Bassmaster himself, Starkey, just before he took to the stage at The Magnet in Liverpool. For the purpose of the interview, AS denotes the questions and S denotes Starkey’s responses.

AbandonSilence would like to offer our gratitude to Ben Vale and Ben Thapa who made it possible for us to meet the man himself - and again for Ben as he contributed the picture of Starkey (left) and my ugly mug (on the right) above. Here goes...

AS: As you were growing up and beginning to produce, from where did you find musical influences?

S: Everything you hear influences you; doesn’t matter if it’s good or bad. What got me into music back in general in the day were the Beatles and Michael Jackson. After that, once I started building my own ideas of what music is, I really got into hardcore punk rock and then jazz and classical. After that was all about Bjork and the Trip Hop stuff, Tricky and that plus Mogwai and epic post rock. All of that came to form what I do now.

AS: At what point did you realise that you could begin to make music for a living and not just a hobby?

S: Erm, I knew I wanted to get into production at about 14 or 15. I knew I had to stop kidding myself that I’d make it to the NBA. That’s when I focused on music. I’d always been interested in music, but I got into writing electronic stuff when I was about 20 or 21, that’s when I started to get into it a bit more. It’s been 8 or 9 years now that I’ve been confident about what I do.

AS: When did you discover dubstep? Coming from the US it must have been hard work to find a foothold in the genre?

S: Pretty early on man, pretty early on. I was living in London in 2001, I heard all that garage stuff; So Solid Crew and The Streets had just come out. I moved back to that states and kept in touch with what was going on. Through the pirate radio stations like Rinse I got into grime and I really got into that. Through grime I got into dubstep. I wasn’t as much a big fan of the early 2steppy stuff, but I have grown to appreciate it now. My first love in dubstep was Loefah’s darker style and Vex’d’s Hip Hop influenced stuff.

AS: On your new LP, Ear Drums and Black Holes, you cover Rave, Dubstep, Chilled and many other genres, do you find it easy switching between genres?

S: That’s kind of what I do, I don’t even think about it, whatever happens, happens. I don’t try to please anyone except myself. If a track feels like it’ll get chilled, it gets chilled. If it feels like it’ll be 4/4, it’ll be 4/4. If I wana sing, I sing. I don’t mind switching styles; I have music ADD so I can get bored pretty easily.

AS: In the UK and more so the US, dubstep is really blowing up, even Britney Spears is working with Rusko, what are your thoughts on the growth of the genre and it’s move into the mainstream?

S: I’m all about it. If people are doing what they’re doing and are happy with what they’re doing, then great. I listen to a lot of mainstream R’n’B and Hip Hop. I think the word ‘dubstep’ is the problem. There are so many factions, the sound is splintering. Everything moves faster because of the internet. You split everything into these subgenres. That’s the problem, there’s really not much that holds the sound of ‘dubstep’ together. Just coz songs are round the same BPM doesn’t mean it’s the same style. That word and what people reference it is a problem. If someone hears a Rusko track for the first time and are told that that’s dubstep, then if someone hears one of my tunes they’ll never think that’s dubstep as well.

Foals "This Orient (Starkey Remix)" by starkbot

Starkey ft. Anneka "Stars" (12", digital single) Preview by starkbot

Thursday Night

2010-06-05T17:18:00.004+01:00

Thursday night was a huge over riding success. Sets from Mele, Sbtrkt (pictured above) and The Others blew the crowd away, with some fantastic supporting slots from local DJs Rich Furness, Horza, Deuce, Kidheader and Grandav.

The pictures are available at this link... http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=239232&id=503320999

Thanks to everyone who came along. Those that didn't, you really missed out! Though planning is being set afoot for AbandonSilence02 in the Autumn, so you can all make up for missing Thursday by coming then.

Particular thanks go to Ben Thapa for the excellent photography

Drag! My favourite new sound

2010-06-02T03:51:00.003+01:00

While having a cheeky peruse of Pitchfork, I came across an article describing a new sound that is mutating worldwide titled 'Drag'. After downloading the tracks that came with it, I have fallen in love! I cannot deny its similarities with dubstep, but it appears to just be an amalgamation of dubstep and deep house, which I am in love with also. So, I compiled a mix to commemorate the discovery of this genre, and it will be the next long awaited 'Fortnightly Mix' (not so fortnightly I have to admit, apologies)

Have a listen, and if you like what you hear let me know, I'd like to find out what other people think of this style of music...

Drag Mix June 2010 by AbandonSilence

Tracklist

Silent Diane - Harmonikai

OoOOo - nosummer4u

White Ring - IxC999

OoOOo - seaww

Balam Acab - See Birds

Fostercare - Heat High

Balam Acab - Heavy Living Things

Live Review: Holy Fuck and Sbtrkt

2010-05-27T22:53:00.002+01:00

Here's a live review I conducted of Holy Fuck and Sbtrkt's show at The Stanley Theatre in Liverpool as a part of the SoundCity Festival that took place over the last couple of weeks. This is only a draft but luckily I'm lazy and have a sub-editor that will check through it before it goes to print. Hope you enjoy it...

HOLY FUCK

Sbtrkt

Stanley Theatre

20/5/2010

As I arrived at the Stanley Theatre, a series of worries blighted me. Firstly, I worried that I had missed the support acts, as I was running late, and I also was worried that I wouldn’t be able to get in as Sound City gigs are ‘first come first served’ entry. However, at my arrival, all of these doubts were eased; as I walked in, support act SBTRKT’s technical personnel were setting up on stage, and there were sixteen people in the hall; literally sixteen, including myself.

Sbtrkt, coming to the stage covered by flowing locks of hair emanating from an intimidating African tribal mask, looked quite like a contemporary 6 foot totem pole. His set was particularly well thought out, with an even divide between his own productions and a fine selection of remixes and cuts from other DJs. His heavy beats were particularly impressive given the nature of the sound system in the Stanley Theatre, which seemed to have the quality quotient of the average iPod speakers. However, Sbtrkt battled through technical problems and crowd discrepancies to deliver a fantastic display of the ‘future garage’ genre that is on the rise across dance floors in the UK. Sbtrkt solemnly left the stage to a patter of applause from the minimal crowd, which had now raised itself to around thirty or forty.

However, by the time headliners HOLY FUCK took to the stage, there was a decent crowd gathered. An influx of punters had boosted the previously indistinct crowd to a respectable number. The Canadian foursome, fresh from the acclaimed release of their sophomore LP, Latin, took to the stage doused in darkness. Despite their immature moniker, they took to their task with a mechanical unity that was highly impressive.

As the crowd warmed to the band’s sound, so did the band begin to get into their stride. Despite the rapid nature of the band’s set, with minimal gaps left between tracks for applause, the crowd could be heard when greeting key tracks Lovely Allen and Stay Lit, as the band displayed their eye for a big sound early on.

Holy Fuck play instrumental music created by live drums, a bass guitar, keyboards and a sampler which created some glitchy beats which on more than one occasion strayed rather too closely to Radiohead’s Ideoteque. It can be quite hard to find a way to grasp a sound without lyrics to follow. In spite of that, their addictive and well administered melodies ensured that the crowd were given more play than work at tonight’s show.

Holy Fuck brought the night to an end with an epic five minute wall of sound, culminating in a Rapture-like funky break down leading to one of the longest and loudest crescendos that I have ever heard. This was the perfect conclusion for the night’s proceedings, as both artists left the crowd baying for more.

Andrew Hill

Ashmi!

2010-05-27T22:50:00.002+01:00

You may be surprised to hear it, but AbandonSilence does actually have some friends. One of these, Nick Asheton, is an aspiring house and techno DJ. His career has been hindered by high flying exploits on one of the longest gap years ever recorded. The mix below has actually been shipped over from Wisla, Canada.

If you like his stuff, unfortunately he's lazy and doesn't actually have Myspace page. So, just enjoy it and keep an eye on AbandonSilence for future updates from DJ Ashmi.

Abandon Silence - Ashmi by Ashmi

Tracklist

Morena - Mendo
Driving Nowhere - Ricardo Villalobos & Los Updates
2000000 Suns - King Unique
Sonnerie - Roman Lindau
Rupert - Paul Hazendonk
Bloody Hands (Marc Meznit Monster Remix) - Peter Horrevorts
Tarantula - Pleasurekraft

Mele Radio One Guestmix

2010-05-25T03:56:00.002+01:00

Last week Mele featured on Mary Anne Hobbs' Radio One show, giving a guest mix. Toddla T, standing in for Mary Anne, praised Mele for his open mindedness and fresh approach to the mix, with such a range of genres and styles encompassed by this one collection. Bright things are certain for this young Merseyside Producer.

The mix is to be found here, give it a listen and support Mele. His Bombay EP came out recently and he is set to headline at the Shipping Forecast in Liverpool this coming Friday before playing at the heavily mentioned show that you will find in the banner above!

Melé Radio 1 Guest Mix by Melé on Mixcloud

Caspa LIVE!

2010-05-20T12:18:00.002+01:00

Just found this mix from the Rinse website, featuring a live set from Caspa with Flowdan on MC duties. Please download it and listen to it from 39 minutes to 49 minutes - potentially the best 10 minutes of live dubstep I have ever heard, so heavy - if anyone know what the tune is that gets reloaded during that time, please let me know!

Caspa and Flowdan - Rinse at Matter

Mele vs Skepta: FRESH!

2010-05-14T15:31:00.003+01:00

This is shit hot, brand new off the press, exclusive, whatever you wanna hear, Mele gave me this link himself. Check it out, his new remix of Skepta's next single, Rescue Me. The remix adds layers of synths and bass to the originals heavy styles. Give it a listen, give Mele's new Bombay EP a purchase, check him out live at AbandonSilence01!

Skepta - Rescue Me (Melé Remix) On Radio 1 by Mele

Summer Anthem Alert!

2010-05-13T14:58:00.004+01:00

It may be hard to believe but the Summer is upon the UK! We have a nice fresh coalition in government, my Uni work is over and the sun is kind of shining. Well, despite the rather sad nature of my previously mentioned Summer celebrations, one tune has embedded itself in my head and I just can't get rid of it.

After the mixed reception his debut LP received, Caspa seems to be coming in strong for the big time with new single, Back for the First Time (without even hearing it you could guess that from the title.) Big house synths and the trademark low end wobbles create the first Summer Anthem of 2010.

If anyone can find out when this is being released and where to get a copy of the mp3, it would be appreciated. For now,bask in this shit minute and a half version on Youtube, as there is nothing else available haha.