X CLUB. launch new label, share first single and announce label debut EP
It's a busy month for the Australian techno duo
X CLUB. have launched their new label, Hide The Junk, by sharing its first single 'Block Rockin'' taken from the imprint's debut EP, 'HTJ001'.
The first EP is four original tracks by the founders themselves, which is set for release on September 21. With the EP setting the tone for the label itself - intended as an extension of the established techno sound of X CLUB. - it boasts groove-infused, percussive techno sounds with a positive energy.
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Lead single 'Block Rockin'' comprises five minutes of synth stabs and rolling drumbeats, its unrelenting energy takes a familiar chopped vocal and results in an infectious debut for the label:
"'Block Rockin' was written freshly after we moved from Australia to London, and began touring the UK and Europe," the duo explain. "Being exposed to the wider world of dancefloors and club music over here provided so much influence and inspiration which immediately bled into our production. When this track was written we were trying new things with our percussion and grooves, trying to make things a little more raw and groove-centred, while keeping the fun energy."
The remaining three tracks are equally tightly woven; 'End of the Line' is a deeper sound, with meandering, infectious synths and pulses, with penultimate 'It Isn't Nice to Fool Mother Nature' a euphoric affair, packed with sliding drumbeats and echoing chords.
Ending the record on a darker note, 'Exertion (Transmission)' is brimming with tension; its stacked drum layers and rising synths intertwine effortlessly to create a menacing cut, primed for the late-night dancefloor heads.
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Having recently moved to London from Australia, the formation of Hide The Junk is a reflection of the duo's artistic position right now — they possess a love for techno, having emerged from the Australian warehouse scene, and inject vibrancy and a soulful groove throughout their works.
“We'd like to build a community around the label and its sound, bringing in new DJs and artists we love to play and using it as a platform to introduce their sound," the duo explain. "The scale of their profile doesn’t necessarily matter to us; if an artist is making music that we enjoy and that fits in our world, we will stand behind it."
Those based in London can expect a taste of this soon, with information about a free label launch party TBC. Expect V/A compilations, carefully curated parties, and merchandise.
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'Block Rockin'' - the lead single from X CLUB.'s new EP, 'HTJ001' - is available now. Check it out here.
Niamh Ingram is Mixmag's Weekend Editor, follow her on Twitter