And other electronic music news.
Not content to let Lounge go gently into the night, Sleep D have announced the return of their ‘Mania’ night that they ran at Lounge 2014-2016. Seeing the venue close is likely especially bitter for Sleep D, Lounge’s management really threw the duo in the deep end in 2014, entrusting them with the crucial weekly Friday night party slot. But Sleep D flourished, and introduced a group of DJs/producers to Melbourne that are now amongst its most loved. Returning on April 12 for a 24-hour last hurrah, the boys have organised an incredible lineup with Fitz-e & Josh Keys, Magda Bytnerowicz, DJ Jezadin, Darcy Justice, Albrecht La’Brooy (live), DJ Camov, Rings Around Saturn, Cale Sexton (live), Noise In My Head, Moopie and of course themselves.
Unless you’ve been on a different planet for the last couple of weeks, you’ll be aware that Flume is well and truly back, first with a 17-track ‘mixtape’ called Hi This Is Flume, and now a new single called ‘Friends’. To me, it’s always felt like Flume is an extraordinarily creative and capable producer trapped by the confines of making pop music (although he’s certainly pushed hard against that barrier on occasions). If that echoes your feelings, I encourage you to give Hi This Is Flume a go. It feels very much like this mixtape is a channel for him to take the creative leash off and let rip. The production, sound design and rhythmic structures within it are a work of art. The new single ‘Friends’ feels the opposite, like he’s phoned in a little radio-friendly track to keep the record executives happy. It’s an interesting time for Flume fans.
German duo Zenker Brothers have announced an appearance in Melbourne on May 3 at Yours&Mine. Marco and Dario have consistently been at the cutting edge of techno and electronic music, with their own releases and others on their successful label Ilian Tapes, including Skee Mask, Djrum and Andrea. Infusing hypnotic breakbeat rhythms, ambient textures and classic techno hallmarks, Zenker Brothers have developed a formidable reputation in the underground scene – in fact, Ilian Tapes was named by Mixmag as one of the “15 Most influential techno labels of the last decade”. On support duties is Chiara Kickdrum, Percy Miracles and Kufatali. Tickets are on sale now via Eventbrite.
