"The Pearl" is a collaboration between Planteaterz and the mercurial NYC rap-mystic, Sensational. The EP features four songs recorded in the winter of 2021 with Sensational on the mic and eaterz on production, and is accompanied by instrumentals and killer remixes by Maara, J. Albert, and Lowjack.

"The Pearl" is a sound, a world, and definitely a vibe. It's got that truly underground, leftfield hip-hop vibe naied to a T; sounding decidedly fresh and futuristic - gloopy, sci-fi leaning soundscapes with unique, gritty, asphalt-huffing vocal deliveries. If you liked the Boldy James / Sterling Toles colab "Manger On McNichols", or the darker side of Earl Sweatshirt, or even stuff by The Bug - you're sure to find plenty of action here. 

STAFF COMMENTS

Matt says: The story of Sensational is an interesting one (check out the youtube link below). A Jekyll and Hyde creative who's had spells of homelessness & addiction. This LP with the ingenious Planteaterz is pretty special if you're into the wonky and darkside of leftfield hip-hop.

TRACK LISTING

A1. Fancy Shit
A2. Freak Like This (Vocal)
A3. You Don’t Know Me Like That
A4. The Flame
A5. Untitled
B1. The Flame (Low Jack Remix)
B2. You Don’t Know Me Like That (J. Albert Remix)
B3. You Don’t Know Me Like That (Maara Remix)
B4. Freak Like This (Instrumental)

After 'Lemonade's' bouquet of ephemera concealing a secret firecracker within, the musical marmite of Sophie returns to our shop. It's hard to think of an artist that splits opinion so much, which is perhaps why I like her (- Matt). So far I've managed to convince about half our customers that this is 'the shit', but none of our staff. Anyway, I'll let you make up your own minds. Abstract, post-millennial electronics on the A-side, "LOVE" just buzzing and squealing through a cannon of VST-pluggins you probably can't even own yet while Sophie spits a plethora of one-letter snips onto this radioactive hue. One of those head-turning soundbeds to immediately change direction in a set, or even as the first tune to play when taking charge of the controls. As usual, we get one experimental piece and then, shall we say, one warped-chipmunk-in-wonderland take on pop music, set in the 23rd century. And that's what "Just Like We Never Said Goodbye Is". A post-break up tune for 15 year old aliens when we traverse to the next inhabitable galaxy. Honestly, this could reduce a cyborg to tears. Heartfelt, naive, childish lyrics about love, lust and yearning set to the most euphoric fidgety, futureproof and all encompassing of instrumentation - and there's not even any drums! So powerful, for me personally, it works; so, so very well. After playing this TWICE during a recent DJ set (I never play tunes twice) and multiple listens at home it still sends synthetic, MCAT-flavoured goosebumps down my arms and fires me with an intangible energy from deep inside the pit of my stomach. It's hard to place, but its there if you feel it, and who cares if the youth like it as much as you. There's not much else I can say about it - just have a listen and please do mail in your opinions (or don't - Ed).

STAFF COMMENTS

Matt says: Available once again. The first four Sophie EPs have become cult artifacts of leftfield-dance-pop. Last chance saloon if you missed 'em the first time!

TRACK LISTING

A. L.O.V.E
B. Just Like We Never Said Goodbye

Since the early days of electronic music, white label records have been inextricably linked to DJ culture and the ways in which underground music has been disseminated. unknown - untitled draws on the white label concept withholding details about the producers behind the tracks and leaving listeners to draw their own conclusions about what they’re hearing.

The concept label focuses primarily on vinyl releases, with previews of the tracks available online, but information about the artists only to be found within the record sleeve itself. The roster ranges from new and emerging producers to more established artists looking to explore new sounds.

Picking up where they left off, the fourth release on the label is a powerhouse of mind melting, UK-flavoured, twisted techno-not-techno and breaks. Intricate rhythms, chest rumbling sub bass and deft samples destined for a heavyweight club system. With online personas often eclipsing the focus on music itself, here lies a return to form. 

STAFF COMMENTS

Matt says: Really diggin' this series so far - not least due to it's 'no presumptions' ethos. It's delivering some seriously underground sounds whilst avoiding falling victim to its own hype. Constantly keeping us on our toes and having it right off in the club. Recommended!

TRACK LISTING

A1. A1
A2. A2
B1. B1
B2. B2