Browse by Label: PLUS 8 (CANADA)

Artist:	FALSE [A.K.A. MATTHEW DEAR]
Title:	Beginner's Luck
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$7.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8082

"After a string of critically acclaimed releases for the Ghostly International and Spectral Sound labels, Ann Arbor, Michigan's False (aka Matthew Dear) closes up his trilogy of three singles for Plus 8 with the sizzling Beginner's Luck. Beginner's Luck nabs Dear's chunky approach to minimal tech-hop with an addictive element of vocal hiccups, clacketty percussion and random bleep melody. His basslines continue to impress, driving his shifty beats and panned accents into a sole sound ala False."

Artist:	DREAMLIFE
Title:	Dreamlife
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$7.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8084

"Woody McBride's return to form this past year is more than welcome. He holds a list of legendary acid techno releases to his name from his production start back in the early 1990's and has recorded for labels such as Communique, Bush, Drop Bass and many more. Dreamlife is his first release for Plus 8. 'DreamLife' is a scorching techno rally, full of attitude and driving rhythms. The flipside is backed with two tracks co-produced by Joe Manu (aka DJ Hyperactive) from 4trak Records in Los Angeles."

Artist:	TESTE
Title:	The Wipe
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$7.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8085

Reissue of the 1992 techno classic 12". "In 1992 two Canadians captured a stirring moment in techno, uniquely harnessing the inner power of their machines into the haunting edge of 'The Wipe'. Easily recognized by its flanging hi-hats and the warm analog sub harmonics of the TB-303, 'The Wipe' is unmistakably a track with the means of escape on a dancefloor. The production duo of Himadri and Huren (aka Teste) have been pushing avant-garde electronic music forward since 1991 working as Teste, Turph, Perceptrons and their own names individually for labels such as Switch and Zhark. 'The Wipe' was originally released in 1992 on Probe Records (a Plus 8 off-shoot label created by Richie Hawtin & John Acquaviva) and has been out of print since the late 1990's. From the start 'The Wipe' was an instant classic within Detroit's fertile underground scene of the early 1990's, having a massive impact at Plus 8's legendary events. Its dark moody tone and relentless bassline quickly became an underground anthem in techno corners around the globe. From the first time he played it out in a set Richie Hawtin recalls it as, 'still the only track to this day that sounds like it's physically ripping through a sound system'."

Artist:	BEYER, ADAM
Title:	A Walking Contradiction
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$7.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8087

"Eyes and ears forward, Sweden's Adam Beyer joins the Plus 8 ranks with a brash yet fluid techno protest. More progressive than predictable, A Walking Contradiction reflects Beyer's open-minded reaction to new sounds and further experiments for the dance floor. A fervently touring DJ, Beyer's brand of techno surpasses the Swedish sound that he's become renown for, playing a mish mash of sounds from all over the globe. The statement behind A Walking Contradiction's put to terms by Beyer as his 'schizophrenic relation with the music right now' taking issue with narrow and generalized trends in harder techno. Well aware of the risks and freedom involved with change, he notes how closing his sound off to one place in music would be a waste. 'I find the biggest progression in the scene today is more stripped down electronic stuff. This record is my contribution to it.' A Walking Contradiction free flows bandy treatments of stuttering effects into a forward blast of pulsing techno. The title aims to challenge the style and sound of Adam Beyer, a producer and DJ embracing new directions both on record and behind the decks."

Artist:	UNDER, ALEX
Title:	Collage
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$7.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8088

"Collage is the debut for Madrid's Alex Under on Plus 8, delivering a sound that is complimented exactly by its title. A mastermind in blending a variety of electronic influences, his hybrid version of rhythm and sound is a moody mash up of jazzy yet experimental techno. His productions are based on deconstruction and variation with equal parts of humor and precision. The dancefloor-aimed 'El Encuentro' moves and weaves rhythm and percussion. 'Fortuito' is challenging as it is playful, starting off with scattered clicks grasping for the beat until the kick delivers, bringing the mood into gear with a simple loop melody and deep bassline. Not afraid to bring the beat, Under heads back to the floor for 'Distantes,' which kicks it into gear from the start, working a minimal approach into maximized power. His attention to noise, effects and off-key sequences can make your hairs on your neck stand up. Collage is the mixed beauty of a tough techno record complemented with elements of minimal purity. Madrid's man at large, Under the DJ and producer along with a crew of friends have been making waves with their CMYK and Apnea labels along with his excellent releases for Germany's Trapez."

Artist:	LEMON8
Title:	Model8
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$7.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8089EP

"Internationally recognizable and instantly addictive on a dancefloor, the acid house-meets-techno on 1993's 'Model8' by the Netherlands Lemon8 (aka Harry Lemon) has been a classic with many DJs since its debut over twelve years ago. The original and the Lemon8 Remix are both heavy hitters and perfectly bridge the electric attitude of acid house and the energy and finesse of techno. The single has been championed for years by the likes of Ricardo Villalobos, Richie Hawtin and many more as integral secret weapons in their sets. The sheer explosive power of the Lemon8 remix alone pushes the senses with as much fervor and impact today as it did on the original release. Timeless electronic music once again proves the point that techno is here to stay."

Artist:	VA
Title:	Cabinet Classics 1994-1998
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	2LP
Price:	$14.50
Catalog #:	PLUS 8090LP

Double vinyl LP version of Cabinet Classics 1994-1998, with selections from CD1 of the double CD compilation capturing the early years of the Cabinet releases.
...1994-2005. Broadcasting timeless, route one techno from the heart of Berlin since 1996, Cabinet records has come to epitomize the rough underground sound of a city like few others. Now, with this excellent compilation package (either on double CD or 2 separate double LPs), Plus 8 has seen fit to set this essential contribution to electronic dance music in stone, in three different formats. Back in the days, the Plus 8-affiliated IntelliNET Distribution pressed and distributed the very first Cabinet releases to the world. Ten years later, Richie Hawtin's relentless search for the perfect beat still leads him back to the rare Cabinet archive for inspiration, quality and pure expression of the form. When you listen to this distinctive, stripped-down sound, forged by label founder Daniel Paul, DJ Zky and DJ Trike among others, it's clear to see why. Not only do their productions contain explosive energy and a generous helping of phuture funk, but there's also a spontaneous, live vibe captured here. The tracks evolve effortlessly, with each new idea reaching its logical conclusion through a mesh of 909 beats, warm analog bass lines and feverish hi-hat patterns -- a knack that's all too conspicuous by its absence nowadays. The first 2LP focusing on the early years with classics from Compass and Cab Drivers, like the acid-tinged "Gliding" and the infectious shuffle and bass groove of "Elwico."

Artist:	VA
Title:	Cabinet Unreleased Classics 1994-2005
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	2LP
Price:	$14.50
Catalog #:	PLUS 8091LP

Double vinyl LP version of Cabinet Unreleased Classics 1994-2005, with selections from CD2 of the double CD compilation delving further into the Cabinet back catalog.
Contains a selection of unreleased gems like Horseshoe's freakin' 303-inspired "Bassfunk" and the tribal drift of Cab Drivers' "Selbstausl�ser." The second vinyl release delves further into the Cabinet back catalog, creating an irresistible salute to Berlin techno -- simply speaking, it's a must for the purist. To the uninitiated, it's the chance to finally pin down some of those anonymous moments that so often wash over the dancefloor, familiar yet always out of reach -- when the warmth of the human spirit melts the cold shell of technology and momentarily makes perfect sense of everything past, present and future.

Artist:	DELANO & XPANSUL, ALEXI
Title:	Intelligence Reframed EP
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$7.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8092EP

Alexi Delano and Santi "Xpansul" Ferrer met in 2004 in Madrid and have been recording together since. This is their debut on Plus 8. Intelligence Reframed rattles and rolls in true Plus 8 dancefloor spirit, shifting in precise yet animated techno. "Echolocation" sends a driving but relaxed beat into a sinister zone of space. "Cosmic Antipathy" grooves along with its electro stabs, square-wave bubbles and cosmic tones. "Vegetotherapy" takes a slightly industrialized attitude, while "Meta-Intellectual" tosses up layers of shadow melodies and manic loops of metallic percussion. This is a pair to be reckoned with.

Artist:	OSUNA, PACO
Title:	Crazy
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$7.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8093EP

One of Spain's most influential DJ/producers Paco Osuna joins the select group of Plus 8 artists with this sublime 4-tracker. Crazy is packed full of flowing techno grooves, innovative arrangements and tricky, melodic twists. The title track motors forward as the hi-hats struggle to contain the roving bassline and the acid riff goes into overdrive. "Alsound" provides glitch, discordant bleeps and infectious percussion, "Joakhim" is a percussive groove with bubbling basslines and "Sechamps" is a journey through the darkness accompanied by a mischievous, dancing synth-line. Top class.

Artist:	SKOOZBOT
Title:	Next To Monchhichi
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$8.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8095EP

Skoozbot finally gets his very own release on Plus 8. The original version of "Next To Monchhichi" is an exercise in raw, stripped-down tech-funk. A reverberating bass line is all over you in seconds, with subtle variations that lock straight into the groove. Adam Beyer remixes, and his bass line is deeper, with beats set to warp speed. Paco Osuna is also on hand, ruffing up the original with an edgy two note sliding bassline and filtered variations of the main riff. The hi-hats and snare rolls rain down relentlessly on the dancefloor before the track opens out into a cavernous breakdown. Finally, "A Fistful Of Duckets" is a cool, electro-flavored workout with an earthy bassline and skipping beats, but don't be fooled -- there's a deadly sting in its tail.

Artist:	OSUNA, PACO
Title:	Orbeat
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8096EP

Paco Osuna scales new heights of innovation and intensity with Orbeat. The title track features a frenzy of percussion and silky sub-bass pressure and the effects leave warm, glowing trails in the night air. "Influence" is driven by an old school bass line with breakdowns that will catapult the crowd into a state of delirium. "Transheet" features seductive vocal samples and growling bass lines. "Alarm" presents tidy rhythms that orbit around a one-note riff that's stretched in every direction. Top-notch.

Artist:	CAROLA, MARCO
Title:	Plus One
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8097EP

This is part one of Marco Carola's Plus series. Classic elements combine to create pure techno funk. A master of the monotonous groove, Carola never forces the issue, he just lets it flow. "Jackpot" is a stripped down, two-step workout that recalls the strutting bass groove and party vibe of Van Helden's classic "Funk Phenomenon." "Swingback" leads off in a more minimal direction with beats supplemented by bleeping percussion parts and a Teutonic snare with a formidable array of effects.

Artist:	CAROLA, MARCO
Title:	Plus Two
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8098EP

Marco Carola presents two smashers, "Contortionist" and "Sensation" for part two in his Plus series. The former utilizes a low-slung groove with a deep vibe, allowing the percussive melody to glide effortlessly over a sea of shimmering hi-hats before spacing out as distant electric piano chords briefly wash across the surface. "Sensation" adds some swagger to the proceedings as the cool rhythmic interplay, classic house stabs and storming bass riffs drag you onto the dancefloor by the scruff of the neck.

Artist:	DELANO & TONY ROHR, ALEXI
Title:	Machine Run EP
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8099EP

Alexi Delano and Tony Rohr present their collaborative Machine Run EP. "Run 1" and "Run 2" is the result of sessions that began when Tony arrived at the studio with parts of "Run 1" which the two transformed and dubbed-out. "Run 2" was created from scratch after as it was decided that "Run 1" needed a "twisted" sister track. Without ever getting too dark, this EP has some really spooky vibes, "like a futuristic Bela Lugosi movie," says Delano.

Artist:	SHANNON, MIKE
Title:	Memory Tree
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	2LP
Price:	$20.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8102LP

2LP version. This is Mike Shannon's third full-length album. It's been 10 years since Shannon started making a name for himself on the international techno scene as a DJ, producer and label owner (Cynosure, Revolver). Now, having recently relocated to Berlin, he's crowning his first decade of active service with Memory Tree. Shannon's music covers a broader spectrum than just minimal techno. In fact, 2005's Possible Conclusions To Stories That Never End was awash with downbeat electronica, highlighting a natural instinct for fusing rhythm and melody whatever the style or tempo. Although Memory Tree follows a more club-oriented trajectory, it retains much of the emotional response generated on Possible Conclusions and is all the better for it. As a result, Shannon has put together a collection of tunes that are simultaneously dark and soulful, staying true to his roots while embracing the future with a flurry of kick-ass, funk-inflected beats. "Beyond Incubation" ushers in the album like distant headlights -- the flickering efx slowly solidify around a lush, bass-heavy groove that transports the exquisite chord sequence ever closer. "Mercury Mile" continues the assent with a long, beatless intro dominated by a wash of static interference and squirming synths, while the molten bass and tough, angular snare lend the groove a cool electro flavor. "Wolf Module" is raw, acid-tinged techno. The stripped-down beats and racing hi-hats thrash out a treacherous path into the unknown, accompanied all the while by a dark, growling main riff. "Enero" gradually flowers into a beautifully-structured piece of uplifting techno with softly rising pads that stimulate the head and the heart. "Love Fry" is a pivotal, stand-out moment, occupying the middle ground between the contrasting musical aspects of Shannon's work. On the one hand, there are dark, engrossing synth lines, on the other, soulful, jazz-influenced elements. "Uno Para el Sol" chills things out into the realms of deep house, as a deftly-played Rhodes drifts across a shimmering sea of percussion and soft chords. "Dr. X" continues the vibe with another deep, melodic percussion sequence that bubbles seductively under the surface before "Regalos de Pandora" lets fly with a perfectly-crafted riff that echoes out into infinity. Finally, "Closed Question" rounds off the album in style with an homage to all things Detroit. Intuitive beats, evolving arrangements, homogeneous sounds and melodies -- it's all here. Memory Tree is an album of extraordinary depth and composure that will burn brightly in the techno firmament for some time to come.

Artist:	SKOOZBOT
Title:	The Rising Sap
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8103EP

American Midwesterner Skoozbot presents The Rising Sap. "In Vacuo" possesses a deep, rumbling bass line and a monotone bleep. "Like Stigmergy" is lighter in feel, although the fusion of kick and bass still leaves some deep footprints. "Lost Wages" features urgent groove with a jacking bass line and percussive melodies that disappear into a vortex. "Raw Garmonbozia" is a tough ride with extended rhythm sections that motor towards sudden bass drops. Gravity-defying stuff that keeps your heart in your mouth.

Artist:	CAROLA, MARCO
Title:	Bloody Cash
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8104EP

On the title track "Bloody Cash," Marco Carola lets fly with a tribal groove full of crisp percussive elements. However, the tough, earthy beats keep everything rooted to the ground. Perfectly balanced and enhanced for maximum danceability. "Sirens" kicks off with broken electronic rhythms and chirping effects before the kick and bass lock everything down. A loose groove sways along with rolling snares, more ethnic percussion and rhythmic synth-lines, culminating in an electro-tinged breakdown.

Artist:	ZENTZ, BRYAN
Title:	Midnight Teeth
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8105EP

Bryan Zentz has been an unsung hero of the U.S. techno scene since 1994. He has released under various guises, traversed the globe as a DJ, and established his own dub-influenced Disruptor imprint. The vampirically-themed Midnight Teeth presents "Lokjaw," a gritty, subsonic adventure with staccato analog pulses and a wickedly funky hi-hat/snare combination, and "Shadowtalk," which utilizes a mid-range bass line amidst waves of reverb, and a hypnotic hook that leads straight into the eye of the storm. Relentless and massive.

Artist:	OSUNA, PACO
Title:	Lemon Juice
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8106EP

Paco Osuna proves once again that he's in a league of his own when it comes to serving up futuristic nuggets of Southern-fried techno. "Party In Chicago" alternates between black run sequences, huge build-ups and intense, reverb-drenched breakdowns. "Looking For v2" is packed with static, reverbs and sudden changes in atmosphere, "My Friend" features an understated intro, more cut-up vocals, and a barrage of snare rolls and "What's Up!!!" builds up a cracking hi-hat line into drawn-out howls.

Artist:	DELANO & ALEJANDRO SAB, ALEXI
Title:	Slipping Through The Cracks EP
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8108EP

Alexi Delano and Alejandro Sab's Slipping Through The Cracks EP is a collection of warm, effervescent techno dominated by phat, subsonic bass lines and effects-driven micro-melodies. "Back To One" features a cyclical reverse-scrape spanning the speakers, while the hookline sneaks into the brain. The gradual build-up leads to incremental reverb, wooden percussion, and buzzing synth FX. A strong centrifugal rush dominates the middle section which then briefly slips its skin before regrouping for the lead-out. Sustained tension with zero drama.

Artist:	JEWEIL, JULIAN
Title:	Babou
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8109EP

Julian Jeweil's Babou features four unique tracks covering the many facets of modern electronic music. "Babou" is absolute peak-time intensity with a blistering synth hook, steady bass surge and pounding groove. "Opening" is a playful little ditty with a clever sense of euphoria amidst gritty funk. On "Tournicoti," a forceful, rolling analog bass-line pushes things along towards sonic dementia, before "Soda" brings you to a safer place, with plenty of unexpected surprises and a tough, buzzing bass surge.

Artist:	KAREM, UTO
Title:	Maschine Love
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8111EP

Italy's rising star Uto Karem presents his debut release for Plus 8 -- four tracks of playful, electronic mischief offering listeners sonic stimulation from the darkest warehouses to the sun-soaked terraces. "Maschine Love" is a gargantuan peak-time jam -- a punchy and effective rhythm structure led by a nice kick, crisp hi-hat, and rounded bass line make room for an onslaught of sound effects, edits, and ultimate studio magic. On a proper sound system, this will be huge.

Artist:	DATASOUL
Title:	Digital Disorder
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8112EP

Christopher Bleckmann and Hannes Wenner are no strangers to innovative dance music. Their latest incarnation is in a freshly formed alter ego called Datasoul. "Digital Disorder" is nothing short of hypnotic genius. The focus is all about the groove, with elements that are constantly looping, while the track perpetually builds intensity with steady, surgeon-like precision. A perfect track when you want the auditory focus to be solely towards building tension. This is hypnotic, driving and ultimately essential.

Artist:	VIGORITO, DANILO
Title:	Primal Scream
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8113EP

Danilo Vigorito presents a steady and heady floor-filling EP which further confirms his status at the top of the techno food chain. This double header starts out with "Prima," a tension-laden track that reaches its release to stunning effect. Detroit-inspired pads wash over the entire groove, while more percussive surprises invade the frequency range. The relentless pace only takes stock near its conclusion, allowing the dancefloor to catch its breath just in time for the anticipated return full-force.

Artist:	LAYO & BUSHWACKA!
Title:	Endangered EP
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8114EP

London duo Layo & Bushwacka! present their debut for Plus 8. Layo & Bushwacka! are one of electronic music's most esteemed duos. In just over a decade, they have released three artist albums, three mix albums, formed their own label, Olmeto, and have held residencies at several internationally-renowned clubs. This EP addresses man's relentless pursuit of profit without conscience and its impact on the natural world. Each track represents an endangered animal and each animal represents the flavor of each track.

Artist:	OSUNA, PACO
Title:	Amigos
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8115EP

A spiral of evolving and heady, sample-laden tracks unfurl on Paco Osuna's latest EP, a richly produced melding of continent-spanning talent, with Paco partnering up in the studio with real-life amigos Daniel Sanchez, Alex Under, Joseph Capriati and Alexi Delano. The Amigos EP presents driven, moving grooves with satiating build ups, over densely-layered samples and drums. Osuna's seasoned skill-sets in the DJ booth and as a producer come together knowingly in this release.

Artist:	SILVERSHOWER
Title:	Early Fever
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8116EP

German techno veteran Ian Pooley resurrects his Silvershower alias for his first release on Plus 8 since 1996. The EP finds Pooley moving into the shadows and pursuing a darker, rougher sound than the Brazilian-influenced productions for which he is best-known, nodding to Silvershower's past as well as moving the alias into the future: "Blue 2011" reworks a track from an older EP; "Early Fever" brings a more classically Chicago-influenced sound to the fore; while "Sinister" and "Whiteout" accentuate darker aspects.

Artist:	AMBIVALENT
Title:	Jackson
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8118EP

This four track EP from Ambivalent carefully blends the soul of his American roots with a European propensity for machine music, producing an ever-evolving sonic blueprint that explores some of his most fluid grooves to date. "Jackson" sets out as a rolling tech cut swollen with satisfying sub-bass. On "Train To Brooklyn" the melody is much freer, falling up, down and side-to-side. On "Lear," the beats boom and bash, hustling both each other and the echoing percussive line above.

Artist:	JEWEIL, JULIAN
Title:	Hermanos EP
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8120EP

Julian Jeweil's second EP on Plus 8 confirms Jeweil's status as one of techno's most reliable talents. "Hermanos" is a thunderous affair where tight, bobbling basslines quickly unravel to expose a housier percussive line and kick drum. "Tabasco" features micro clicks and blips bubbling around an undulate beat structure that hits hard and deep. "Circus" is another streamlined, urgent, minimalistic affair that establishes a groove before peppering it with abstract, alien sounds. "Juice" delves into the darkened nether-regions of minimal techno's underbelly.

Artist:	MADONNA, LUIGI
Title:	Sensation
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8123EP

Luigi Madonna made his name in his hometown of Naples with early EPs released by Loose Records and Analytic Trail, catching the ear of many established techno stars before his original productions and remixes for the likes of Material and Drumcode began punctuating a succession of Plus 8/M_nus-boss Richie Hawtin's DJ sets. On his debut EP on the Plus 8 imprint, Madonna explores streamlined and stripped-back grooves of the sort perfectly befitting the outlook of the label.

Artist:	PASCUAL, ALBERTO
Title:	Vertigo EP
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8124EP

Alberto Pascual presents his debut EP for Plus 8. A skilled DJ and live performer, Pascual has been producing since 2004, with over 30 releases to his name. It's much the same on the title track, which hits loopy depths immediately. Dramatic FX, crunchy hats and tension-mounting hisses fill out the spaces between the beats. "Truchas Rancias" is more reserved: Economical arrangements characterize the techno eeriness this time. "Continuous Learning" is more unhinged, with swirling synths, dripping water sounds and shadowy voices.

Artist:	KAREM, UTO
Title:	Take Control
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8125EP

Uto Karem returns to Plus 8 for his second release on the label. "Take Control" is a liquid track which builds in looped layers through piston-pumping percussion, upright beats and plenty of melodic drama. "All Over You" features a crisp, almost dry production style as various percussive elements flesh out a 4/4 techno groove. Hidden within each bar are some wooden-sounding hits and various melodic notes, all of which are heart-warming additions to a killer dancefloor groove.

Artist:	PASCUAL, ALBERTO
Title:	Last Train To Party
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8126EP

Plus 8 turn to Spanish talent Alberto Pascual for their next four-track outing. The title track has already become a firm favorite on dancefloors across the world. Groovy kick drums drive the thing along as whooshes of atmosphere blast past. "Acrobata" is woozy and disorientating to start, as thin sounds circle behind a bare drum. "1970" explores more of a rolling house vibe and "A Nebula Intro" is a little techier and more metallic than the other cuts.

Artist:	FUSE
Title:	Dimension Intrusion
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$14.50
Catalog #:	PLUS 8024CD

Originally released in 1993 as the fifth release on Warp's Artificial Intelligence series, this is the original Plus 8 version from 1993 -- this album was licensed to TVT for the U.S. but is no longer available on that label -- of Richie Hawtin's legendary first full-length release as FUSE. Ushering in the second wave of Detroit techno, Dimension Intrusion is a haunting, futuristic soundtrack and a classic of minimal, acid-flecked electro-house. These tracks are collages of interactive grooves spewed forth by machines and men, cyber-active, abstract dance rhythms, spoken by samplers with a human touch. After Hawtin and John Acquaviva began regularly crossing the short distance from Canada to Detroit to visit the clubs that catered to techno legends such as Derrick May, Juan Atkins and Kevin Saunderson, they were inspired to start Plus 8 Records in order to release pure techno devoted to "The Future Sound Of Detroit." Just like in the days of Transmat, NU Groove, and Metroplex, Plus 8 gave techno enthusiasts a label that truly represented Detroit in the '90s, a label with minimal sampling but maximum inventiveness. It also began to bring to attention the FUSE pseudonym that Richie Hawtin had begun to use for his solo projects. Richie had already released one FUSE single, the electromagnetic Approach & Identify EP, four tracks of experimental illusions aimed at loading information into the cerebral brainwaves and transferring them into complex body beats, and two tracks on the From Our Minds To Yours compilation on Champion, two further FUSE out-of-mind-and-body experiences. The influence of acid has never left Hawtin and if anybody is remotely responsible for the resurgence of the Roland TB303 and the surreal sounds it releases, then surely he, along with fellow Detroiters Underground Resistance, must share much of the blame. On Dimension Intrusion, Hawtin takes the 303 to a new dimension, either recreating liquid scopes, slowed down into a sea to electro bubbles, as demonstrated on "Slac" or "Substance Abuse," a techno floor dominator in 1991, or "Circuit Breaker," another of his other outlets for ruthless ideas, released on Plus 8's harder dance subsidiary, Probe. Dimension Intrusion is an impressive array of sub-world disturbances and discreet musical mechanics. But these are no jejune rave tunes, these are timeless pieces of abstract dance that can be placed on file, and called up in years to come still bearing the same effect as on their initial impact. Cover artwork by Matthew Hawtin.

Artist:	FALSE [A.K.A. MATTHEW DEAR]
Title:	False
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$14.50
Catalog #:	PLUS 8083CD

"As false, Matthew Dear delves into a similar plunderphonic territory of hard grooves filled with deep textures, sampled vocals, and warped, squelchy synths. But this isn't just some nose-deep-in-Powerbook, chin-scratching audio collage of blips and clicks. false occupies that tight space between abstract techno and straight up, four-on-the-floor mayhem that will have subwoofers, dancers and academics straining to keep it all together. Matthew Dear was first introduced on the Spectral Sound label from the Ghostly International family, gaining the attention of Plus 8 by his hard working attitude as a DJ and producer and all around seriousness to his music. Not one to sit for long, he has a new single out this spring under the name Jabberjaw for Berlin's esteemed Perlon label. Of the false philosophy, Dear comments, 'All of our actions and thoughts [are] mere reactions of the molecular world. Therefore, our emotions could only be chemical reactions to the physical universe and are not ours at all but only a piece of the larger scheme. They are false. We are false'."

Artist:	VA
Title:	Cabinet Classics 1994-1998 & Cabinet Unreleased Classics
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	2CD
Price:	$20.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8091CD

...1994-2005. Broadcasting timeless, route one techno from the heart of Berlin since 1996, Cabinet records has come to epitomize the rough underground sound of a city like few others. Now, with this excellent compilation package, Plus 8 has seen fit to set this essential contribution to electronic dance music in stone, in three different formats. Back in the days, the Plus 8-affiliated IntelliNET Distribution pressed and distributed the very first Cabinet releases to the world. Ten years later, Richie Hawtin's relentless search for the perfect beat still leads him back to the rare Cabinet archive for inspiration, quality and pure expression of the form. When you listen to this distinctive, stripped-down sound, forged by label founder Daniel Paul, DJ Zky and DJ Trike among others, it's clear to see why. Not only do their productions contain explosive energy and a generous helping of phuture funk, but there's also a spontaneous, live vibe captured here. The tracks evolve effortlessly, with each new idea reaching its logical conclusion through a mesh of 909 beats, warm analog bass lines and feverish hi-hat patterns -- a knack that's all too conspicuous by its absence nowadays. The package appears either as a double CD or two 12" double pack formats (offered in the "Vinyl Versions" section of this catalog), the first focusing on the early years with classics from Compass and Cab Drivers, like the acid-tinged "Gliding" and the infectious shuffle and bass groove of "Elwico." The second contains a selection of unreleased gems like Horseshoe's freakin' 303-inspired "Bassfunk" and the tribal drift of Cab Drivers' "Selbstausl�ser." The second vinyl release and double CD delves further into the Cabinet back catalog, creating an irresistible 21-track salute to Berlin techno -- simply speaking, it's a must for the purist. To the uninitiated, it's the chance to finally pin down some of those anonymous moments that so often wash over the dancefloor, familiar yet always out of reach -- when the warmth of the human spirit melts the cold shell of technology and momentarily makes perfect sense of everything past, present and future. Also includes ONS Project, Todd Bodine and Karo Zwo.

Artist:	SHANNON, MIKE
Title:	Memory Tree
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8102CD

This is Mike Shannon's third full-length album. It's been 10 years since Shannon started making a name for himself on the international techno scene as a DJ, producer and label owner (Cynosure, Revolver). Now, having recently relocated to Berlin, he's crowning his first decade of active service with Memory Tree. Shannon's music covers a broader spectrum than just minimal techno. In fact, 2005's Possible Conclusions To Stories That Never End was awash with downbeat electronica, highlighting a natural instinct for fusing rhythm and melody whatever the style or tempo. Although Memory Tree follows a more club-oriented trajectory, it retains much of the emotional response generated on Possible Conclusions and is all the better for it. As a result, Shannon has put together a collection of tunes that are simultaneously dark and soulful, staying true to his roots while embracing the future with a flurry of kick-ass, funk-inflected beats. "Beyond Incubation" ushers in the album like distant headlights -- the flickering efx slowly solidify around a lush, bass-heavy groove that transports the exquisite chord sequence ever closer. "Mercury Mile" continues the assent with a long, beatless intro dominated by a wash of static interference and squirming synths, while the molten bass and tough, angular snare lend the groove a cool electro flavor. "Wolf Module" is raw, acid-tinged techno. The stripped-down beats and racing hi-hats thrash out a treacherous path into the unknown, accompanied all the while by a dark, growling main riff. "Enero" gradually flowers into a beautifully-structured piece of uplifting techno with softly rising pads that stimulate the head and the heart. "Love Fry" is a pivotal, stand-out moment, occupying the middle ground between the contrasting musical aspects of Shannon's work. On the one hand, there are dark, engrossing synth lines, on the other, soulful, jazz-influenced elements. "Uno Para el Sol" chills things out into the realms of deep house, as a deftly-played Rhodes drifts across a shimmering sea of percussion and soft chords. "Dr. X" continues the vibe with another deep, melodic percussion sequence that bubbles seductively under the surface before "Regalos de Pandora" lets fly with a perfectly-crafted riff that echoes out into infinity. Finally, "Closed Question" rounds off the album in style with an homage to all things Detroit. Intuitive beats, evolving arrangements, homogeneous sounds and melodies -- it's all here. Memory Tree is an album of extraordinary depth and composure that will burn brightly in the techno firmament for some time to come.

Artist:	HAWTIN, MATTHEW
Title:	Once Again, Again
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$15.50
Catalog #:	PLUS 8107CD

CD compilation of classic ambient techno recordings from the early-'90s/mid-'90s, mixed by Richie Hawtin's brother Matthew who DJed in chill-out rooms of major events such as Tribal Gathering, S�nar and Time Warp from 1993-1998. Including music by Pete Namlook, The Irresistible Force, Sun Electric, Link, MLO, Dubtribe Sound System, and many others. Once Again, Again offers a long forgotten snapshot of what made the beginning of the '90s such a special place to be. It was a time to champion all forms of electronic music and pour them into one big melting pot, before everything began splintering into genres and subgenres. Back then, Richie wasn't the only member of the Hawtin family making waves as a DJ; over in the chill-out room, Matthew was also captivating crowds with marathon ambient sets. This unique mix compilation represents a very personal account of what it was like. Between 1993 and 1998, Matthew was a regular at Detroit parties like Hardest, Spastik and Heaven And Hell, providing the yin to his brother's yang, so to speak. For him, ambient music offered a more emotional, thoughtful and evocative journey and the chill-out room was a safe place for people to drift in and out and make a different kind of contact, away from the intensity of the main room. Once Again, Again should serve up a timely dose of nostalgia for the old guard, while introducing a whole new generation to the rich, dynamic history of a genre that briefly dominated the electronic landscape. Matthew has really gone back to the source with a selection that has truly stood the test of time. The result is a real joy to experience, packed with soothing textures, glistening melodies, restrained percussion and mandatory bird call. Until now, most of these tracks have only ever seen the light of day on vinyl and with that in mind, Tim Xavier's mastering skills have also added an extra dimension -- a crispness that breathes new life into this collection of floating monoliths that blend together without the slightest resistance. So lie back, unplug all possible sources of interruption and let yourself drift through this expertly constructed spectrum of sound, to a time when a wide-eyed generation of party people really felt they could make a difference to the world. Other artists include: A.S.I.O. And Paddee, Pineapple Circle, Jet Chamber, Solar Quest, Further, James Bernard, A Positive Life, Adena Cycle, Atlas, Porcupine Tree, Shades Of Orion, Theorem, Gustavo Lamas, James Bernhard, FUSE, Squid, and Legion Of Green Man.

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Artist:	PAGANINI, SAM
Title:	Cobra EP
Label:	PLUS 8 (CANADA)
Format:	12"
Price:	$11.00
Catalog #:	PLUS 8121EP