Russell Club Records - Blogs

Unearthed Art/ Work

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 00:19:03 GMT

Some nice pre label Russell artwork that we found in the digital vaults.

What is E.T. short for?

Ross Allen - Best of 2010

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 17:42:35 GMT

We have featured Ross Allen previously on the Russell Blog and you will see his name pop up regularly throughout our continuing musical endeavors as quite simply he is a man with records that you need to listen to. 2011 is looking to be a busy year for the well known man about town with the launch of his new label 'Meltdown Records', djing all over the world and his highly acclaimed Meltdown radio show.

Last week Ross presented the second part of his Best of 2010 special. This is a great chance to pick up on some hidden gems you may have missed from the year and may also feature some of your favourites that made it another great year in music.

Here are links to download both parts 1 and 2 with full track listings. Also below is a write up from Ross himself that is well worth a read.

You can catch Ross at his Meltdown residency each and every Friday night 7pm till late at the wonderful Heavenly Social on Little Portland Street W1

Download Ross Allen's Best of 2010 Part 1
and Part 2

Part 1 Track List - Hour 1

Steve Mason - Am I Just A Man (Studio Remix) - Domino
Kode 9 - Stung - Soul Jazz 12"
Digital Mystikz - Unexpected - DMZ LP (from the album Return II Space)
Addison Groove - Foot Crab - Swamp 81 12"
Mark Pritchard - Out In The Streets - Warp download
Andreya Triana - Darker Than Blue - Ninja Tune CD (from the album)
Cours Lapin - Ma Melodie - Fake Diamonds CD (from the album Cours Lapin)
Mark Lanegan & Isobel Campbell - Snake Song - V2 CD (from the album Hawk)
Jeff Bridges - Hold On You - New West CD - (from the album Crazy Heart OST)
Grinderman - Heathen Child - Mute 12"
Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings - She Ain't A Child No More - Daptone CD (from the album I Learned The Hard Way)
Kings Go Forth - Don't Take My Shadow - Luka Bop LP (from the album The Outsiders Are Back)
Syl Johnson - Try Me - Numero Box Set
Pastor T L Barratt - Like A Ship - Light In The Attic LP (from the album Like A Ship)
Lee Perry & The Upsetters - Dub Of The Lord - Pressure Sounds LP (from the album Sound System Scratch)

Part 1 Track List - Hour 2

Gappy Ranks - Put That Stereo On - Peckings 7"
Romain Virgo - Ghetto - Speaker Boxx 7"
Erykah Badu - Can't Turn Me Away (Get Munny) - Motown CD (from the album
The Game - Shake - download
Usher feat Nicki Minaj - Lil Freak - download
Wiley feat Rinse, Ice Kid & Mike Skinner - Don't Hide Away - ZIP Files download
Smiler - Enza - download
Ninja Sonick - Somebody Gonna Get Pregnant - download -(from the album Art School Girls)
Doc Daneeka - Hold On - Ramp download
Pretty Boy Haters ft 8th W1 - Body - download
T Williams - Afric - Local Action 12"
Black Coffee - Ju Ju - download
Konono No 1 - Wumbazanga - Crammed/SSR CD - (from the album Assume Crash Position)
Ize - Tronik du Mondo - Crammed/SSR CD - (from the album Radioclit presents Secousse)
Darkstarr - Gold (John Roberts Remix) - Hyperdub download

Best of 2010 Part 2 - Hour 1

Forest Swords - Glory Gongs - Olde English Spelling Be EP (from the EP Dagger Paths)
Bomba Estereo - Fuego - Polen CD (from the album Estrella)
Afrocubism - Djelimady Rumba - World Circuit CD (from the album Afrocubism)
Neil Cowley Trio - Monoface - Naim LP (from the album Radio Silence)
Monsters Of Folk - Dear GOD - Rough Trade CD (from the album Monsters Of Folk)
Conan Mockasin - Choade My Dear - Phantasy Sound CD (from the album
Bear In Heaven - Lovesick Teenager - Home Tapes LP (from the album Beast Rest Forth Mouth)
Tensnake - Comacat - Permanent Vacation 12"
Nick Catchdubs - Breakin' Bad - download
Caribou - Odessa (David Wrench's Drumapella) - Merge 12"
Gorillaz - Stylo - Parlophone CD - (from the album Plastic Beach)
Flying Lotus - Do The Astral Plane - Warp CD (from the album Cosmagramma)
2 Bears - Church - Southern Fried 12"
Donaeo - I'm Fly - download

Best of 2010 Part 2 - Hour 2

James Blake - Limit To Your Love - Atlas 10"
Distance - Falling - Chest Plate CDR
MJ Cole & Wiley - From The Drop - Prolific CD
Ramadanman - Work Dem - Swamp 81 12"
L.V. feat Okmalumkoolkat - Boom Slang - Hyperdub download
M.I.A. - Born Free - XL LP (from the album Maya)
Gil Scott Heron - NY Kills Me - XL LP (from the album I'm New Here)
Jam City - Ecstasy (Refix) - Night Slugs 12"
Storm Queen - Look Right Through - Environ 12"
Dead Boy - If U Want Me - Numbers 12"
Nas & Damian Marley - Land Of Promise - Tuff Gong/Island (from the album Distant Relatives)
Kwes - Moonshining - CDR
DJ Shadow - I've Been Trying - The New Futility 12"
Cee Lo - I Want You (demo) - CDR
Janelle Monae - Wondaland - Arista CD (from the album The Arch Android)
Zinja Hlugwani - Nwagezani My Love - Honest Jons LP (from the album Shaangan Electro)
Kanye West - Hell Of A Life - Def Jam CD (from the album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy)

Check out what Ross has to say about the year in music in his 'missive':

Here we are in 2011. A slightly delayed start to the year but we all need a rest and as the year starts to slowly get into swing I thought it would be timely for me to return to your in box and for you to do what ever you will with this. If ever you were going to check the shows out I would do it now. This selection is really what these emails and me are all about. The tracks and links below are the best of the best in a year which I thought was really good for music.

2010 was great fun and I think if you listen to the shows or just read the track lists (if you know all the tunes - i bet you don't ) then you will be in agreement that it is exciting times. If you ignore the mainstream there is always something good in all genres, you just need to do a bit of digging around and most genres will open up to you, and if you can't be bothered let me do it.

I was thinking of banging on about all the tracks individually but i do quite a bit of that in the shows - so it seems pointless to do it again in print - plus it takes longer and I am far better at talking than typing, writing, spelling, grammar and type setting - thanks to all those of you that have told me that I am crap at each and every one of those. Things can always get better, or worse.

Basically these two shows contain my favourites from all the genres and musics that we love on the show.

For your perusal i have split the music up into these very specific (?!) sections

(What do you call that new) UK Electronic/Dubstep/UK Funky stuff

What ever you call that music - like Grime before it had a name, and jungle before it became Drum and Bass and even house when it was an odd new form of electro from Chicago. A genre that hasn't formed into one yet, at the best time for all genres are - the styles of fusions that you can't put your finger on yet and can't fit in that box. This year it was the music which seemed to be, kind of, dub steppy but not - (confused ? Could it be any less clear ? - basically up tempo, bassy and different sounding). Well, it was a good year for that stuff !! Basically the bastard son/daughter of dubstep and UK house that is just new and undefined by anything. Which is probably why I like it.

People that made great records that fit this, rather vague bill, were Kode 9 and many of his Hyper Dub posse; Digital Mystikz - Mala/Coki DMZ, Deep Medi and the Digital Mystikz album; Addison Groove's Foot Crab, and Ramadanman's excellent - Work Dem on the same label - Loefah's excellent Swamp 81; Jam City, falls into this category though could also have gone into the house section but is possibly a bit too fast, it is also the best thing on the excellent Night Slugs label; Donaeo - originally a Grime vocalist now leader of the UK funky scene -his track 'I'm Fly' was a massive sing along, should have been a hit, type of track and in the 'box' from the day I got it to now - when will he break through ? he has had loads of those type of tracks.

Then there were the dubstep breakouts set to happen in 2011 - James Blake - well hyped as the dubstep songwriter and deservedly so and DJ Distance and his excellent vocal track 'Falling'. Yes, I should have played Magnetic Man but that got misplaced in the studio and time is tight when doing these shows - sorry chaps - you seem to be doing alright without another play from me though ! Anyway this area is probably the most exciting one right now as anything goes if it feels right the Ramadanman track being a fine example of that.There were tonnes of other interesting bits of music in this area that you can find detailed in other places - it's trendy you see ! These were my faves.

Hip Hop UK & US

Not a great year for Hip Hop on an overground level - I fear I need to dig deeper this year because it is out there if you look, and there is not so much of a difference in the styles any more. It seems the US has exhausted its supply of local scenes to plunder and unfortunately has now settled on going for Euro dance, thus forging the worst of all fusions Euro dance rap/RnB. The UK no longer so keen to ape the US, it could even be going the other way this year. with many a UK producer getting involved with Hip Hop legends new and old.

We occasionally blantantly have the better beats stand up Tinie Tempah (though we didn't get to feature that on the show - shame on me !) I loved it when Snoop did Pass Out with him at Glastonbury; We did get some great music from Wiley (with MJ Cole on the excellent 'From The Drop' and some gems on his online leaks that were the ZIP Files) why doesn't he just produce himself ?; My favourite UK newcomer was Smiler, we feature his excellent Enza track and I am keen to see what he comes up with this year too; there was a trend for sampling great and really old R n B which I loved and The Game smashed it with 'Shake'; Nicki Minaj had a great year and was easily the best female MC to arrive in years, her album was a bit crap (like so many Hip Hop records this year) but her guest appearances were many and amazing, here we play the excellent Lil Freak by Usher and she shows how good she really can be; Other great tracks which are Hip Hop but would not readily fall in to other peoples categories were the freaky Ninjasonick - like Spank Rock meets the Beastie Boys and Pretty Boy Haters Kenny Dope produced Hip House release - Body; The return of the original rapper Gil Scot Heron with his excellent I'm New Here, was a real treat early in the year, and I am looking forward to the Jamie XX versions that are due out soon; The obscure but excellent return of DJ Shadow shows great promise for his full album next year.

The there was my album of the year from Kanye West. Is it Hip Hop ? Is it over hyped ? Is it any good ? All questions which have been asked on forums, in magazines, on Facebook (see Trevor Jacksons page for some full on 'mass' debate). All I know is that it got me excited. I don't care who makes it, why they made it, what they say outside of the record. I just know what I hear and if it flicks my switches, and this did big time, the that is what I judge a record on. In years to come no one will care about all the tittle tattle and all that will be left is the work. This record will shine - it does now to me. Just watch. Overground and exciting - a challenge few rise to or deliver on. Well done Kanye you dick !

There were lots of other great Hip Hop tracks this year that we nearly played on this round up namely Big Boi and the excellent Shutterbug, some great new Diddy bits, Drake had a couple of belters and there were more old school sampling gems from Plugs Atoms and LLoyd feat Mystikal

A lot of the Uk MC's went pop which is a good thing for them and spreading the word but did nothing for me personally. Lets hope they can utilise their presence and get a bit more real and grimey now they have the paltform...

Singer/Songwriters, Country, Folk & Beyond

As ever they poured their little hearts out and some shone and others sounded dreary. The ones that I liked were a bit quirky or just plain good - lyrics and melodies make these artists - simple and classic. As ever with me it's a wonky selection but I really did like Andreya Trianna's Ninja debut - great voice, jazzy, folky, distinctive and some memorable songs. French act Cours Lapin delivered a great quirky sixties sounding album, immaculately produced and featuring several tracks that i could not stop playing. Mark Lanegan & Isobel Campbells album from this year was great - like a modern Nancy & Lee they work so well together, especially when covering Townes Van Zandt's Snake Song; I am not a great one for the cinema but Crazy Heart was a really enjoyable film about a washed up Country Hero and I know a few of them - the soundtrack was great and Jeff Bridges can sing a good country song; The Monsters Of Folk album was a quality modern alternative country super group that worked for me, and got sampled by The Roots; Conan Mockasin appeared from NZ with a very distinctive vocal and guitar style, an odd ball production and made an interesting album for Erol Alkan's label. Another highlight was Laura Marling's 7" on Jack White's Third Man records, a label which is well worth checking out. Her version of the Needle & The Damage Done was sublime. Josephine Oniyama ditched her second name and finally released 'I Think It Was Love' which she has threatened to do for a bout 4 years ! Finally, the Steve Mason album was ace featuring his best songs to date with interesting production - he also receives my winner of remix of the year award for the Studio remix of Am I Just A Man - which is pure balearic bliss, and a great framing for an excellent song

Soul & Funk

I got very excited by Janelle Monae's 'Tightrope' early in the year and tried to see her when I was in SF before the album came out, and when it finally did, The Arch Android blew me away not because it was 100% the best album she could have made but because it took chances and is definitely the boldest soul record I have heard in years. So many different styles approached - country, jazz, show tunes, pop RnB and retro funk to name a few. Then there were the live shows - full on revue style when I saw her. A true star who I hear has been Grammy nominated - it pays to be bold kids ! Erykah's album was good if not as amazing as her last one but I do love her and her covering Sylvia Striplin is always going to be good. Neosoul is almost a dirty word but one she, and D'angelo, invented. When she makes records she puts the others in that genre to shame. Cee Lo went interstellar with Fuck You and the mixtape and album showed he is multifaceted, interesting and a great singer/songwriter. The album was pitched to break him out and did but the unreleased bits kept the soul a bit more and garnered cult status amongst the cognescenti - I Want You being one such example and a very, very good one ! The return of Sade is always good for us soul boy's and the single Soldier of Love's release was amazing, the rest of the album was a bit tamer but had a few less MOR cuts on it that were great too but her voice is soo good & I kept playing the single all year.

On a more retro tip Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings delivered again and Milwaukee based Kings Go Forth released became big hits with the real soul scene with there Northern/Modern sounding singles and album which got picked up by David Byrnes Luaka Bop label - you need to hear them.

As ever the sea of re issues grew deeper and deeper as more and more obscure gems were excavated by the likes of Jazzman, The Numero Group, Light In The Attic and a whole slew of others dug deep and exposed either unreleased albums or tracks and artists that time passed by for what ever reason. A couple of my favourites are featured in the show. The Syl Johnson box set is an amazing example of historical documentation, beautifully packaged and full of classic southern soul and funk, and his voice. The Pastor CL Barratt private press album from back in the day is one of those that never got a wider release, that it so obviously deserved

House, Garage & Techno

Those old chestnuts - this area blurred into the first category as DJing tempo parameters slid all over the place - to me this was one of the best things of the year. I almost felt vindicated having been all over the place for years but for the purposes of this section it is the music that fits that now classic feel of dance music. There did seem to be a return to some of the rawness of all these genre's early incarnations. No track better typified this than Morgan Geist's Storm Queen. 'Look Right Through' was definitely my house tune of the year - raw and funky with a soulful vocal that felt like an old classic the minute you heard it. Another stand out was House of Jezebel's 'Love & Happiness'. South Africa became the place to get your house/garage from as it's funked up, percussive rhythms typified by Black Coffee fitted a classic feel that was last seen in NY records from the early to mid 90's. It also inspired some fresh records from UK producers like the excellent LV, signed to Hyperdub their Boomslang cut was another exciting moment for the UK. Another producer tapping into the African vibe was the excellent T. Williams - everything he did I loved. Roska continued to be funky and fresh but we didn't play him as much as we did last year. Doc Daneeka was a new name that produced some brilliant tracks/remixes that again were classic, funky and fresh - 'Hold On' was my favourite and it's violin led groove worked on all dance floor's. 2 Bears played up the classic house garage feel on several great tracks but added an English sensibility to the songwriting and vocals making the tunes both hip and interesting.

The one thing I did notice was a divide between audiences - the disco/house thing seemed old, as the younger generation's seemed more excited by bass culture inspired house, if they were feeling it at all. As I stated before Bestival highlighted the generation gap - in the younger crowds loving dubstep, reggae and jungle and the older crowds there going for the disco inspired and classic house feel. A lot of house seemed tame and retreading old ground. However at the same time Tensnake had a huge hit with Comacat, a track that was slow and full of that 1986 house/disco feel. I suppose it's the exception that proves the rule, I have already heard the trendies slating it but I really liked it - it reminded me of being at school !

Talking of bass culture I did get very tired of the 'fidget' house sound as it seemed to lose the innovation and slide into big beat cliche's - wiggy basslines and tinny production that everyone and their dog was making. In that area a producer that I did love, on several tracks, was Nick Catchdubs. From NY, he has been around a while but his productions like 'Breakin Bad' and 'Motherfuckin'' took that Spank Rock/Switch style, and rather than make it more wiggy, made it deeper. He used breaks in a Baltimore style but gave them a classic feel. They were funky and the tracks went down a storm in the clubs for me. More like this please. The Crack house sound of Zinc and a few others was interesting, happening but not always for me as they often felt too hyper though when they were good I did really like them. His track with Ms Dynamite - Wile Out was good example - the more quirky ones from his EP's were great too.

On the Techno side of things my favourite new producer was Space Dimension Controller who made some amazing tracks in a classic style, Floating Points got better and better, other than that there were a few minimalistic moments that were good. Carl Craig was as reliable as ever. Moodyman and Theo Parrish did their thing and older blokes got very excited but apart from the odd tune I have always found these two slightly over hyped...

World Music

We do like a dabble in this area, not expert by any means but keen to see what is going on out there and the scope of this music is always endless - well there is quite a large area to draw from.

Africa is always a good source and people have explored and excavated the Motherland and beyond as never before, especially with regard to old music. Labels like Analog Africa and Soundway put out a heap of compilations focusing on different and unexplored areas releasing music outside of the local area for the first time. They covered specific regions (Angola, Nigeria, Siam, some of many), styles (funk, Psychedlics, Hi Life, Disco & Rock to name a few). Do check these labels if you are interested in quirky, funky musics that goes beyond Fela Kuti and the Bhundu Boys. African music continued to exert its influence over everything from Indie bands - Vampire Weekend delivered another excellent album and went into the stratosphere, to House - we have already mentioned the whole SA house thing but Radioclit did put together an excellent compilation of sounds from right across Africa that they dug deep for and played at their excellent Secousse night.

A more specific compilation was on the ever excellent Honest Jon's label - Shaangan Electro. Rounded up a Johannesburg based Township scene which took the simplest of technology and made amazing, super fast music that was both raw and emotive. From this compilation came Zinja Hlugwani's - Nwagezani My Love. Which has to be the tune that blew me away the most this year. I could not stop playing it, It amazed me. It felt like an old house record but at the wrong tempo - raw and soulful and super catchy. We also played it loads at the club and it became an end of night anthem.

Konono No1 released yet another album (plus their excellent remix compilation Tradi Mods vs Rockers) and played a killer gig that I caught in London, which was basically a night of relentless and warped percussion. Definitely ones to check at a festival, if you get the chance. Another great live band, who made an impact on me and put out a very excting/good record were Columbia's Bomba Estereo. I first heard about them after SXSW - thanks to my Nashville crew - and saw them in the summer. Definitely a find of 2010 and ones to watch over coming year/s.

In the classic World music style - The limited Guardian reading appeal of traditional sounds that used to define this term now seems truly outdated as a definition of this all encompassing genre, what with the records we have mentioned above - There were still some amazing music being made. The ever excellent World Circuit continued to produce great and classic LP's, highlights this year were Toumani Diabate & Ali Farka Toure (which we played last year), Cheikh Lo and the excellent Afrocubism project, the album that was meant to be what turned into the Buena Vista Social Club. It finally got recorded and fused the sound of Africa's north West coast - Mali basically - with Cuba's percussive rhythms. Lots of other labels and artists did great things but this labels quality control seems so high that as ever they deserve special mention

Not a 'world ' record more a jazz record but definitely my favourite in that area was the Neil Cowley Trio's Radio Silence. Interesting, different and listenable from beginning to end. We had to play something from it again and did so. Jazz for people who may not even like it, and definitely for those that do.

Reggae

I was disappointed with so much reggae/ragga this year but also found it difficult to get any exciting new rhythms from my regular trips to Dub Vendor, which got fewer as I was rewarded less. Apparently the culture is changing in JA they have stopped doing vinyl on ragga rhythms basically just sending out digital files to sound systems - I need a new source to dig deep into that well - but even Mr Rodigan told me it was hard work to find great reggae in 2010. Hopefully he'll help me in 2011 I want to find it.

My favourite new vocalist was Roman Virgo, and his album was great, Ghetto played was a great single on a classic rhythm. Gyptian, another great voice crossed over but my favourite cut of the year was from an interesting album with Nas & Damian Marley hooking up again. A good album but THE cut was Land Of Promise. A stand out from the start. It blew me away and by the time Glastonbury came it was booming out of any decent sound system - when the Congo Natty version dropped in time for carnival things got hyper too ! On a UK tip it was great to see former Suncycle Crew (always quality !) member Gappy Ranks come to the floor and get the recogntion that he rightly deserves. It was also good to see longtime London stalwart Curtis Lynch Junior keep building his excellent Necessary Mayhem label - always a good stable to check. My other favourite track this year was Vybz Cartel - Clarks, and yes it is about those classic Uk born shoes. On the reissue tip there was a plethora of oldies from all decades as reggae became the collectors genre of choice. Too many to mention and some good and lots a bit too deep for me. May be all the good ragga that is getting missed will be comped up in 20 years or more's time - or may be someone could do it now - now there is a challenge for me !

None the less the influence of reggae was as omnipresent as ever from dubstep to the re emergence of Jungle to samples galore in every dance/electronic genre. It's in British music's DNA and can never be underestimated. This year it seemed to be more accepted as that.

Rock/Indie

Everyone keeps announcing the end of the Rock Era - well I am not sure I care much about that but it's always interesting to hear these statements as it must reflect something going on in peoples heads even if it is just a passing phase. I do think that the classic 'rock' combo is a bit of a tired style but if you do write great songs and are inventive there is no reason why it should be. Anyway it can be good and taken to all sorts of places and when it is we will play it and love it - Grinderman returned with some great tracks none better than Heathen Child. The Black Keys one of my favourites, delivered another great record and as we mentioned before Vampire Weekend delivered again in that interesting world were great songs and interesting sounds from around the world collide. These New Puritans made a really great record that we played many times and didn't get on this show but was on the week before Xmas as a prelude. A mad fusion of so many styles it was dark and brooding, serious but very good. If you missed it do give it a listen. The Crocodiles album was another winner - sounding like the Stone Roses meets My Bloody Valentine or something else in a different but familiar way. On a more electronic/80's tip I really loved Bear In Heaven and am definitely looking forward to what they do next as I am with Toro y Moi. Whose album was very enjoyable if not a little over processed. New comer Kid Adrift fitted some great songs into a twisted and contorted electronic rock framework ona couple of singles. All 3 of these are definitely my tips of ones to watch this year

Electronic

A bit of a dumping bin for music that I couldn't fit into any other genre but hopefully you know what I mean when I put Flying Lotus, Mark Pritchard, Caribou, Darkstarr, Gold Panda, Forest Swords and Kwes in it. Sort of Techno, ambient or just interesting sounds that you don't necessarily dance to but are made on synths.

Anyway the Fly Lo album was his best yet - bigger and better than his debut he truly did consolidate his place at the forefront of new sounds and beats. I still don't get the over hype on him but do think that a lot of that is to do with the fact that I am now old and have heard a lot of it before albeit in a slightly different guise. He did a great 'live' set a Bestival which warmed me to him more as he tore the place up playing all genres to a huge crowd. I have heard him previously be plain odd and though that excites the beards it doesn't do that much for me.

Talking of Beards it was great to see Ninja celebrate their 20 anniversary in such great style and be so on point this year. Always interesting if not always spot on, they are a truly great label and long may they continue to bring us music from the left of all persuasions. The Seiji Remix of Coldcut's Timber was inspired and my favourite out all the remixes they put together this year.

Caribou's album was refreshing, interesting, different and a huge hit around the world in the 'electronic' area. It was good to see him embracing more dancey style and realising his long time latent potential. The same could be said for Fourtet, who's album gained lots of plaudits. I liked it but didn't think it was as amazing as everyone else. I think this is the problem I have with this music. I do, and am not being bitchy, find a lot of it to be 'emperors new clothes'. I either like music to blow me away from a dance floor side of things, or emotionally take me somewhere. Things like Fourtet and Flying Lotus - are undoubtedly interesting and good and as soundscapes are good music that in the right enviroment will get me but from the get go don't blow me away. Then you get that feeling versus the hype and I feel a bit like I am being over hyped and in turn I feel disappointed. Mark Pritchard is always difficult to pigeon hole and continues to make fresh and emotive music even if they take ages to come out. His dabbling in the Footwork/Juke sound - much hyped this year and promoted by the excellent Planet Mu label - was outstanding - taking the energy of that raw, harsh sound and fusing it with a Detroit sensiblity, Out In The Streets should open you up to a whole new hyper active tempo. Darkstarr did a great job in the 'deepness area. I don't have the album but loved the John Roberts mix of Gold for its pure electronic emotion. One of my favourites of the year was by South Londoner Kwes - a producer who has been bubbling around for a while, though still undergorund, and is very unpredictable but amazing when he gets it right. On Moonshining he did just that - a heavy Dilla esque beat that goes AWOL in all the right ways definitely one of the most exciting things I have heard all year ! I think Dels is going to be using that beat on his album but hope they release the dub. His EP on Young Turks was great too.

Plastikman - Arkives

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 18:14:32 GMT

Well worth checking out. Motor City Techno soldier Richie Hawtin last year unearthed his Plastikman alter ego to a welcoming loyal fan base and a new audience with a live show at Barcelona's Sonar future music festival. This was the beginning of a project to release a back catalogue of remastered, re-edited and remixed productions, archive footage, images and collaborations celebrating his seminal impact on electronic music.

Plastikman Arkives interview Richie Hawtin from Ali Demirel on Vimeo.

Flaxon Ptootch - 2011 Debut Party featuring the Russell Club Soundsystem

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 15:07:23 GMT

On Thursday January 13th the Russell Club Soundsystem will return to one of our favourite venues for one of our favourite get togethers. For over 20 years Flaxon Ptootch has not only been styling Kentish Town and beyond from its head quarters on the High Street but has also been a cultural melting pot for all manner of local creatives from across the artistic spectrum.

As well as providing one of the most comfortable atmospheres to get your 'air did' in London town it also acts as a gallery space featuring some of the most prominent names on the emerging art scene. Each month two different artists are invited to display a collection with a private viewing and soiree held on the 2nd Thursday of each month.

With a strong network of musicians, artists, film makers, and in general, lovely creative like minded people, every party is always a great occasion. With a penchant for fine cocktails the salon's director and gallery curator Michael Ptootch provides a bar stocked with only the finest ingredients served by a crew of London's premier cocktail barmen. There is always live music from a whole host of top players and dj sets from across the board.

December's party celebrated 20 years in business and quickly became a road block event with a live roof top show from local boy and UK chart topper Mr. Hudson. Highly revered local urban artist Mr. P displayed a formidable collection of his works and Russell Club Records founder and chief Dave Vega kept the tunes rollin' until the break of dawn.

Entrance is FREE and full details can be found here

The warm and friendly atmosphere and nature of the salon make it a great place to hang out and a very pleasurable hair dressing experience. Check out the official Flaxon Ptootch website here

'Howl' Version 2 Promo Video In Full HD

Sat, 08 Jan 2011 12:05:41 GMT

Russell Club's debut video, the accompanying promo to our current release 'Howl' by James Delay is now available to watch in the beauty of full high definition on Vimeo.

The video was filmed in HD so it is a pleasure to see a true representation of the piece which was created by acclaimed film maker Christopher Tirrell.

There is also a write up from Chris which gives you an insight into the meaning of the video and what it represents.

We are very proud to be working with Christopher and look forward to 6 more films from him to accompany all our 2011 releases.

James Delay 'Howl' from Christopher Tirrell on Vimeo.

Competition Time!!!

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 13:37:35 GMT

kick start your year by winning yourself a whole host of Russell Club products in our first competition of the year. By answering a simple question a Russell Club Label Launch Super Bundle Special could be winging its way to you wherever in the world you may be which features:

Limited edition screen print t-shirt first run (only 20 in the world!)
Limited edition hand packaged and individually numbered Russell Club debut release from Jamie Blanco on 10" vinyl and CD (only 100 in the world)
Jamie Blanco debut 3 track ep digital download
James Delay 'Howl' debut release and Fear of Theydon Remix on digital download
Exclusive limited edition Russell Club pin badge collection (only 100 in the world)

And as a special bonus you will receive all 6 releases from 2011 sent to you as digital downloads.

Wowzer!

To win all this answer this relatively simple question:

Q) On what type of vessel did we host the 'Howl' launch party in November 2010?

If you need a clue have a look at our end of year round up

Email your answer to us at info@russellclubrecords.com

Competition closes 31/01/11

Good Luck!

James Delay - End of Year Standon Calling Party Hour! Guest Mix

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:08:07 GMT

Free to download, share and enjoy from Russell Club's James Delay, 60 minutes of solid electronic music selected from his favourites of the year.

During summer 2010 James enjoyed his debut festival show at the award nominated and highly acclaimed Standon Calling who he credited this exclusive mix to.

Standon Calling 2011 is set to be even bigger and better as momentum picks up on this perfectly scaled musical gathering. 2011's event takes place on August 11th to 14th at Standon Hertfordshire and will hopefully include our boy Delay once again.

Check out the official website here

Check out James Delay's Standon Calling Party Hour! on Soundcloud below, download, share and enjoy. Also have a little look at highlights of James' Standon Calling 2010 debut set.

James Delay's Standon Calling Party Hour! by James Delay

An Introduction to Christopher Tirrell

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 13:33:12 GMT

Two weeks ago we unleashed the accompanying video to our latest release, James Delay's 'Howl'. The video has gained a totally unexpected level of attention receiving over 4000 views in the first week. Much of this is down to the sheer quality of the production which is created by film maker Christopher Tirrell.

We first met Chris at The Libertine where we have our monthly Russell Club get together. The place it seems is a definite hub of convergence for a few like minded creative talents. It was obvious to us from the start that Chris is in every sense of the word a true artist.

Whilst studying a degree course at London's LCC, Christopher formed a band with our own Jamie Blanco which achieved success with a string of well received single releases and extensive tours of the UK, Europe and further afield.

After the band (Roland Shanks) parted company, Christopher concentrated on photography and film and was accepted to study an MA degree at the Royal College of Arts. His final piece Bellow (which you can view below) was shown at the British Film Institute earlier this year in July as part of the Royal College of Art Acoustic Images screening. The piece was also shown at the RCA Show Two and was awarded the Chris Garnham prize for most creative use of photography.

Moving forward Chris is busy preparing to start production on another short film in the new year. He is also working on a new music project which is steadily building momentum. At Russell Club we are proud to be working with Chris and will continue to do so with him agreeing to create accompanying video for our forthcoming releases.

You can check out Christopher's work on his Vimeo channel

and watch the videos for 'Howl' and James Delay's Russell Club Re-Rub of 'On Repeat' by Foreign Office

Bellow from Christopher Tirrell on Vimeo.

Ross Allen's Meltdown - Latest show to download and NYE details

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 14:43:18 GMT

Check out the latest edition of The Meltdown, Sony Award winning raconteur Ross Allen's weekly radio show broadcast across the globe on Ministry of Sound Radio.

As ever a cross spectrum journey taking in sounds old and new from coast to coast. Inspiring, educating, exciting, entertaining and occasionally comical, the show is broadcast from the studios of the world famous club each and every Monday 6-8pm GMT.

You can download this weeks edition here and listen in the comfort of your own time (tracklist below)

Earlier this year Ross took up a weekly Friday night London residency at one of the most famed party destinations, the adorably cosy yet action packed Social. Week in week out Ross has been wowing the post working week crowds with his awesome sounds and awesome guests, as always representing the full musical landscape.

Ross will end the year and welcome in the new with a turbo charged Meltdown which promises the usual weekly shenanigans but louder, longer and with even more extra special guests including:

Ashley Beedle
Jonathan More (Coldcut)
Phil Asher
Jay Strongman
Heavenly Jukebox
Droid & Fones

This promises to be a blinding party. The Social is an intimate venue and most of the tickets have already been snapped up so if you fancy it we recommend you get yours in now

2011 looks set to be a big year for Ross across all of the work he is doing in his illustrious musical career. The new year will see the launch of Meltdown Records, Ross' new independent label which will act as a vehicle for some extremely exciting new talent. We will also see new music from the likes of DJ Shadow and Kid Adrift, artists that Ross works with for Island Records, and also Afrikan Boy, Mark Pritchard and Sunship who Ross manages personally. You can also expect more radio shows reaching more territories for the likes of Selector and
Red Bull Music Academy.

Ross will be broadcasting his end of year best of round up across 2 shows over the festive period. Always a great listen and great opportunity to catch those best bits from the year in music that may have just missed your radar.

We will be sure to post these up on the Russell Blog as soon as they are available so stay tuned.

You can keep up dated on everything Meltdown and Ross Allen related on his website

And finally here is the tracklist for this featured show:

Hour 1

These New Puritans - White Chords - Angular/Domino CD (from the album Hidden)

Patrick Wolf - Time Of My Life (Leo Zero Remix) - download

Jagga - Modern Day Romance (Photek Remix) - download

Rockwell - Aria - Critical Music CDR

D Minds Vs Jakes - Gold Chain - DStyle download

Krust - True Stories - Talkin Loud/V 12"

Wiley - Bow E3 (King Cannibal Remix) - Ninja Tune CD

Girl Unit - Wut - Night Slugs 12"

T.I. feat Pharrell - Amazin' - Grand Hustle/Atlantic CD (from the album No Mercy)

Tunnidge - Tribe - DeepMehdi CDR

Shawn Lee - Ride Of The Valkiries - Ubiquity CD (from the album Hooked Up Classics)

Kanye West - Hell Of A Life - Def Jam CD (from the album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy)

PART TWO

Josephine Interview and live acoustic tracks

Ian Campbell Folk Group - Dirty Old Town - Sanctuary CD (from the box set

Agnes Gobel - Avenue - PIAS CD (from the album Philharmonics)

Floating Points - Post Suite - Ninja Tune CD single

Reel People feat Daine - Sure - Reel People CD single

Tiga - Love Don't Dance Here Anymore (Carl Craig Remix 2) - PIAS CD

TJ Kong & Nuno Dos Santos feat Robert Owens - Where Were You (Kirk Degiorgio Remix) - Compost download

TJ Kong & Nuno Dos Santo - The Quiet Room (Rob Smith Remix) - Compost download

End of The Year Round Up - Russell Club Records 6 Months On

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 20:26:27 GMT

As we draw towards the end of 2010 and our first year in business we look back at the last 6 months, the first 6 months of Russell Club Records, our beloved DIY Direct to Fan record label.

In May Jamie Blanco delivered the first glimpse of his new solo electronic music which became the catalyst that gave birth to the label. The first 3 tracks were finished, mastered and committed to vinyl. Artwork, website, stationary were all developed and Russell Club Records Limited became a registered UK business.

In June we took Russell Club's debut release Jamie Blanco's 'Beach of Mind EP' to its spiritual home, the Mediterranean island of Ibiza to officially launch the label at this year's International Music Summit.

On returning to the UK we individually hand packaged a limited run of 300 10" vinyl copies of Jamie's EP which we accompanied with a CD version and download bundle, all of which have been welcomely received by a supportive audience.

Music lovers and industry insiders alike have shown acclaim and support for both the label and the debut release. Cuts from the first EP have been featured on radio shows and podcasts across the globe.

In August we held a very special party to celebrate the launch of Jamie's first release on the label at Fixed Fear, his hugely successful London residency. The event featured as always some sublime dj sets from Russell Club regulars and Jamie's debut solo live showcase.

In the radiant summer heat of September we released an exclusive branded pin badge collection and limited edition screen print t-shirt at the now legendary Alma Street Fair in Kentish Town, North London. This proved to be a delightful day out with plenty of food, drink, smiling faces, a special live performance from local boy Mr Hudson and a generous sprinkling of local celebs.

As we moved into Winter we introduced James Delay to the label as our second featured artist via his 'Russell Club Re-Rub' remix of 'On Repeat' by Foreign Office. The release enjoyed some considerable attention which set James up perfectly for his own debut release on the label in the form of the mighty 'Howl'.

So onto November and our second release which we celebrated with a party on a 1930's Dutch barge moored on the Thames. Accompanied by an elegant and thought provoking video created by Royal College of Arts MA graduate Christopher Tirrell, 'Howl' received a very unexpected level of attention gaining over 4000 views on Youtube within its first week of release. An encouraging result for a new and relatively unknown independent humble record label.

And so we move into the new year and reflect upon our first 6 months with pride and a feeling of initial accomplishment. The support we have received so far has given us immense encouragement to go forward and build on what we have achieved so far. Next year will see new music from both Jamie and James and also the introduction of some new and exciting talent on the roster. We will continue to strive to release brilliant music and nurture new artists. We will make more great videos, appear at more festivals and continue to play our music loud. Above all we will continue to do it all totally independently with smiles on our faces for the sheer love of music.

We hope you will join us on our continuing quest........

Cosmonauts - Intergalactic Planetary Disco

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 16:22:31 GMT

It is always a pleasure to meet new people who share a common love for music and enjoy sharing that love with up for it like minded cosmic children and that is exactly what happened when the Russell Club hit up Ministry of Sound on Saturday night and was treated to a veritable cornucopia of intergalactic audio delights courtesy of Cosmonauts.

The latest addition to a well respected list of Ministry of Sound residents, Cosmonauts bring their explorations into deep space disco to the legendary South London night spot with their monthly
Spacestation partys.

Momentum is picking up for this much loved duo with appearances at Glastonbury in 2010 and many more lined up for the new year.

The guys are also busy up in the stars manning the desk of their space station production studio getting ready to unleash some stella beats to the waiting world.

Spacestation will return to Ministry of Sound on Saturday January 29th which will feature special guest The Magician (formerly of Aeroplane)

Definitely a strong Russell Club recommendation, we look forward to hearing much more.

Check out Cosmonauts website, Facebook and on Twitter

And check out their sounds below

Latest tracks by Cosmonauts

For Disco Play Only 03 Podcast featuring Jamie Blanco

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 23:57:21 GMT

For Disco Play Only is a monthly podcast show featuring the very best in disco, italo, cosmic, house music and much, much more. We came across them whilst sliding around the world wide web and we propositioned them with our first release, Jamie Blanco's 'Beach of Mind'.

The For Disco Play Only guys liked our music and have featured it on their latest podcast which is superb. Not only is it superb it is absolutely free and easy to download from iTunes.

The guys also go so far as to refer to our humble label as 'up and coming' so For Disco Play Only we salute you.

Download the mix here

Hit them up on Twitter

And learn more about Jamie Blanco here

Russell Club Live - December 3rd Tracklist

Sat, 04 Dec 2010 13:39:53 GMT

As ever massive shouts to everyone that rocked the joint down at the Libertine for our monthly outing on the wheels of steel. Although the intense arctic conditions forced many venues to abandon all hope of opening we kept warm and cosy with some of our favourite tracks and plenty of food and wine. Also got to give it up to the New Order fans, always a pleasure to have on board.

Everything we played listed below. kicked off with a cut from the new Kanye West album which we have been thoroughly enjoying this week. Shouts to our dear friend Ross Allen for putting us on that. Check out the album and check out his 30 minute short film which accompanies the piece.

Our latest release 'Howl' by James Delay as always received some great attention. You can grab a copy here direct from the Russell Club Webstore for the lowest available online price of 79 English pennies. Video below.

So here we go with the music, we are back at the Libertine again next Friday December 10th for an early Christmas get together. You can find the Libertine here and if you like the music and would like any further info on booking the Russell Club Sound System for your bar, club, wedding, funeral or bar mitzfah, drop us a line on info@russellclubrecords.com

Russell Club Live - December 3rd MMX

1) Kanye West & Bon Ivor - Lost in The World

2) James Delay - Howl

3) The XX - Night Time

4) Eric Burdon - Spill The Wine

5) Disrupt - Sega Beats

6) EPMD - It's My Thing

7) Gangstarr - DWYCK

8) Mr Scruff - Get Down

9) Conroy Smith - Dangerous

10) Ol' Dirty Bastard feat. Kelis - Got Your Money

11) Sergio Mendes - For What It's Worth

12) Joy Orbison - Hype Mngo

13) MJ Cole - Sincere

14) Daft Punk - Fresh

15) Elvis Presley - Crawfish (Pilooski Remix)

16) Jungle Brothers - I'll House You (Leo Zero Rework)

17) Leo Zero - Jammin' On A Dream

18) New Order - We All Stand (Peel Session)

19) Bauhaus - Bela Lugosi's Dead

20) Talking Heads - Houses in Motion

21) The Dixie Cups - Iko Iko

22) Gonzales - Never Stop

23) Azari & III - Reckless (With Your Love)

24) Storm Queen - Look Right Through (Vox)

25) New Order - Thieves Like Us (12" Extended Mix)

26) Bill Withers - Use Me

27) Erick Sermon featuring Marvin Gaye - Music

28) UB40 - Don't Break My Heart (Boat Drinks Edit)

29) Stereo MCs - Connected

30) The Stone Roses - Bye Bye Badman

31) Johnny Cash - Folsom Prison Blues

32) The Clash - Train in Vain

33) Nu Shooz - I Can't Wait

34) Sister Sledge - Thinking of You

35) Prince - Raspberry Beret

36) Womack & Womack - Teardrops (Extended Remix)

37) Al Green - Let's Stick Together

38) Ini Kamozi - Hot Steppa

39) Wham! - Everything She Wants (12" Edit)

40) Lenny Kravitz - Are You Gonna Go My Way

41) Sub Sub - Ain't No Love (Ain't No Use)

42) Richard Dorfmeister - Boogie No More

43) K-klass - Rhythm is a Mystery

44) The XX - Crystalised (Remix)

45) Daft Punk - Around The World

46) Fleetwood Mac - Everywhere

47) Happy Mondays - Kinky Afro

48) New Order - Bizarre Love Triangle

49) Electronic - Getting Away with It

50) Deacon Blue - Real Gone Kid

51) Soho - Hippy Chic

52) Tom Tom Club - Genius of Love

53) The Human League - Love Action (I Believe in Love)

54) Hot 8 Brass Band - Sexual Healing

55) Marvin Gaye - I Heard It Through The Grape Vine (Mono Version)

56) Soul II Soul - Keep On Movin (Club Mix)

57) Cheryl Lynn - Got To be Real

58) Suzanne Vega - Tom's Diner

59) Massive Attack - Unfinished Symphony

60) Heaven 17 - Temptation

61) New Order - Temptation

62) 808 State - Pacific 707

63) A Guy Called Gerald - Voodoo Ray

64) The Stone Roses - I Wanna Be Adored

65) Billy Idol - Hot In The City

66) Primal Scream - Rocks

67) Wookie - Battle

68) Peter Gabriel - Sledgehammer

69) New Order - True Faith

70) Talking Heads - This Must Be The Place (Naive Melody)

71) New Order - Vanishing Point

72) Kate Bush - Running Up That Hill (Ashley Beadle Edit)

73) The Smiths - There Is a Light That Never Goes Out

74) Donna Summer - I Feel Love (Patric Cowley Mix)

75) The Housemartins - Caravan of Love

76) James Delay - Howl (Russell Club Records)

Fear of Theydon - 'Howl' Remix

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 14:59:30 GMT

With James Delay's emphatic debut Howl now available and unleashed to the world, Russell Club Records are poised to release our first commissioned remix courtesy of Fear of Theydon.

Keen electronic music enthusiasts amongst you may already be familiar with the name having receiving critical acclaim for a string of high caliber remixes, his soon to be released mix of 'Howl' being no exception.

Fear of Theydon aka Julian Peck began releasing music under the imaginatively titled Mr Whelk, during which time he caught the attention of Sunday Best head honcho and Bestival camp leader Rob da Bank. After playing his 'Cloudbusting' mix of Kate Bush on his BBC Radio One show, da Bank gave Mr Whelk his first official remix commission.

Having been totally unaware of some unscrupulous bootlegger pressed up copies of the Mr Whelk remix of New Order's Blue Monday on 12" vinyl, it was time for a switch up and Fear of Theydon was born.

Rob da Bank then went onto release a Fear of Theydon 4 track EP featuring four remixes including his sultry and moody mix of Grand National which went on to feature on international comps including Global Underground and Cafe Mambo.

More recently Julian has been providing mixes on all current Sunday Best releases under the name ' Sunday Best Mix', once again gaining attention and acclaim for his workings of David E. Sugar, Dub Pistols, Ebony Bones and Dan le Sac Vs. Scroobius Pip.

Keep an eye out in the new year for the Fear of Theydon LP which will feature collaborations with some leading names and also FETE, Julian's Balearic project with Sean Brosnan.

James Delay 'Howl' the Fear of Theydon remix is released on Friday November 10th and will be available exclusively here from the Russell Club Webstore.

James Delay's original version is available to preview and purchase here

and this dear friends is the video. Enjoy!

James Delay 'Howl' - Music Video

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 14:23:52 GMT

Russell Club Records is delighted to present to the world our first venture into motion pictures with the promo video to James Delay's debut release 'Howl'.

The film has been directed, shot and produced by Royal College of Arts MA graduate Christopher Tirrell who has superbly captured the colour and movement of the track.

You can check out more of Christopher's work here on his video channel.

The footage was shot on location across London and in the sea side town of Wells on The Sea, Norfolk.

Howl is available to download now from the Russell Club webstore

David Lynch releases solo electronic music

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 13:20:22 GMT

Sunday Best Recordings has supported Russell Club Records since our conception earlier this year. Russell Club Records was launched during 2010 International Music Summit on the Balearic island of Ibiza. It was then that a new solo electronic music project by enigmatic American film director and artist David Lynch was discovered by the powers at be over in the Sunday Best camp.

The double A side single 'Good Day Today'/'I Know' was kept as an extremely guarded secret until its release on Monday November 29th (the same day as Russell Club launched its second release 'Howl')

Artwork for the project has been created by graphic designer Vaughan Oliver who has been celebrated for his iconic works for the likes of The Pixies and The Cocteau Twins.

The work and vision of David Lynch is a major influence on Russell Club Records so both this project and the coincidence of timings are very pleasing indeed.

You can check out the release here

And check out David Lynch's website DLF.TV here

Jamie Blanco Remix to Download for Free

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 16:14:31 GMT

Russell Club Record's producer supremo Jamie Blanco has been working on a few exciting projects of late outside the Russell camp which we would like to share with you.

First up is a beautifully Balearic remix (as can be expected of Blanco!) of 'A Return To Space' by Twisted Tongue. Also as can be expected from Jamie the production quality is second to none.

The remix is a collaboration with Ibiza legend Steve Lee and will be available on Acid Jazz Recordings in the new year.

For a limited time only you can download the track for free here

Russell Club Records will be presenting brand new music from Jamie in 2011 and also a remix package of his debut release on the label.

Also keep eyes peeled for a very collaboration between Jamie and label mate James Delay.

Check back on the Russell Club Blog for all label and artist updates

Down By The River - Howl Launch Party

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 20:50:27 GMT

A big Russell Club shout out to all who made it down to the wonky old Dutch barge yesterday to celebrate the launch of James Delay's debut release Howl

Fair to say all had a jolly old time of it

And here's to many more

Thankfully it was a lovely and sunny winters day, chilly up on deck but below was warm and cosy helped by some delightful selections from messers James Delay, Jamie Blanco, The Reverend JFK, Vega and very special guest Ross Allen.

James Delay's 'Howl' is now available to download for instant gratification here

Howl by James Delay

Foreign Office 'On Repeat' - James Delay's Russell Club Re-Rub - Reedited Video

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 18:35:30 GMT

Hotly tipped London based 4 piece Foreign Office are enjoying critical acclaim with their latest single 'On Repeat' which features James Delay's Russell Club Re-Rub. The original video to accompany the release has been specially reedited for Delay's remix by the films creator Christopher Tirrell (who has directed the video to 'Howl').

The single is available now from bandcamp

Russell Club Records Sunday Best Mix - Download For Free

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 16:14:44 GMT

Russell Club is very pleased to present this mix that we did in preparation for the mighty Bestival for our friends at Sunday Best Recordings.

Bestival is regarded as one of the UK's if not the World's leading annual music festivals and this year was no exception with awesome performances from the likes of Gil Scott Heron, The Flaming Lips, Chic, Rolf Harris and 2010 Mercury Music Prize winners and Russell Club favorites The XX.

Sunday Best asked us for a mix which represented music which has influenced the label and its formation so that is exactly what we did.

You can download the mix here and view the full blog post here

Hope you enjoy and please do feel free to share with friends and family.

Thanks for all at Sunday Best for the opportunity and we hope to be at Bestival next year (nudge nudge wink wink!)

Russell Club Records Under The Influence Mix for Sunday Best

1) The XX - Fantasy
2) Charlie Sexton - Gracelands
3) Elvis Presley - That's Alright
4) Bear in Heaven - You Do You
5) Badly Drawn Boy - The Shining
6) Kraftwerk - Tour de France
7) Patti Jo - Make Me Believe In You
8) Shinichi Osawa - Star Guitar (James Delay Remix)
9) Jamie Blanco - Beach of Mind (Russell Club Records)
10) Talking Heads - This Must Be The Place (Naive Melody)
11) James Delay - Howl (Russell Club Records)
12) A Guy Called Gerald - Voodoo Ray
13) 808 State - Pacific
14) New Order - Ceremony

Haunted House Party MCR with The Horrors, Dave Haslam and Friends

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:59:47 GMT

We had the pleasure of meeting Manchester music scene legend Dave Haslam recently whilst supporting our own James Delay at Standon Calling and have caught onto this awesome scary time event.

Think you will agree this is one hell of a line up. The organisers will be turning Manchester's Ruby Lounge into a haunted house for the evening which promises to be a spectacular.

Headlining will be a DJ set from The Horrors who we have had the pleasure of playing alongside previously. Spider from the band it has to be said has a superb record collection. Well worth checkin'

click here for more info and tickets that include bed and breakfast for a stupidly low Manchester sum of £16!

See you at the front!

Free Download - Jamie Blanco '11:06'

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 15:30:43 GMT

To celebrate the release of Jamie Blanco's debut EP release on Russell Club Records we are giving away a free download of his analogue cosmic techno dance floor essential '11:06'

The track has been causing a stir amongst DJ's and dance connoisseurs alike and is a must for any high energy evening out.

To get your free download simply sign up for the Russell Club newsletter on the website homepage

Free to download and share - Russell Club Records Fixed Fear Guest Mix

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 01:04:31 GMT

For a limited time only!

Russell Club Records Fixed Fear Guest Mix

Shonky

Wonky

Manchestie

Listen

Share

and

Enjoy

Latest tracks by RussellClubRecords For a limited time only!

Hot 8 Brass Band

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 00:29:30 GMT

This is ace

Great to see

Hope you enjoy

Jamie Blanco EP Launch - Samuel Chase Live Show

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 14:21:27 GMT

Here is a little taste of your first live show of the night at Saturdays Blanco EP launch party.

Samuel Chase forthcoming on Moshi Moshi records will be appearing live on stage at The CAMP at 11pm.

Then its Russell Club's James Delay until midnight and then Jamie Blanco will perform his debut live solo show.

Tres Exciting!

James Delay rocks Standon Calling Festival

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 12:20:53 GMT

Check out this footage from Standon Calling festival as James Delay rocked the Camp Alcatraz stage. Great vibe over the entire festival and 'one in one out' through the duration of his 2 hour set.

Stay tuned for James Delay's debut release on Russell Club Records entitled 'Howl' which will feature remixes from Jamie Blanco and Fear of Theydon

Fear of Theydon Remixes by Fear of Theydon

Jamie Blanco "Beach of Mind' radio play - Dave Mothersole

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 15:51:15 GMT

Friend of the Russell Club and one of our all time favorite DJs Dave Mothersole features Jamie Blanco's debut release 'Beach of Mind' on the August edition of his monthly radio show transmitted across the globe on Proton Radio.

You can find out more information about Dave and his upcoming shows here on his MySpace

And listen, share and download the show on SOUNDCLOUD

Proton Mix 029 by dave mothersole

Tracklist:

Lazer Worshippers - Theme [Experimental]
Jamie Blanco - Beach of Mind (Russell Club Records)

Carl Craig - At Les - Russ Gabriel Mix [Ferox]

Conforce - Digital Affair [Field]

A Guy Called Gerald - Just Soul [Laboratory Instinct]

Conforce - Fictional Enviroment - Delta Funktionen Mix [Field]

Chloe Harris - Trbl [Further]

Future Beat Aliance - Inside Out [Void]

A Guy Called Gerald - People Moover [Laboratory Instinct]

Spieltape - Lonely Places I've Never Been [Proton Music]

Francois K - Moov [Wave]

Der Dritte Raum - Weitwelt [Save To Disc]

Afrilounge - Jericho Horns [Connaiseur]

Tiga - Gentle Giant - Efdemin Mix [Turbo]

Pezzner Feat. Larissa Kapp - Find Me - Jay Shepheard Mix [Freerange]

Tom Flyn - Mecury [Artform]

Mutant Clan - On And Amp - Vincenzo Mix [Bedrock]

Kevin Yost & Peter Funk - Trust - Evren Ulusoy Mix [I Recordings]

Forthcoming on Russell Club Records - New Demo from Jamie Blanco

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 21:48:11 GMT

Had to share this with you all. New production from Jamie Blanco. Raising the bar

Narrow Awake by Jamie Blanco

Jamie Blanco Launch Party Guest Mix

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 13:55:17 GMT

To get you ready for his EP launch party on Saturday August 14th, Russell Club's Jamie Blanco presents a very special guest mix for you to listen to, download, share and enjoy.

The mix is a collection of Jamie's own productions and tracks that have influenced his music.

A brief insight into what is to come from this highly talented individual.

Enjoy

Rotating at 124bpm (Mixed by Jamie Blanco) by Jamie Blanco

Alma Street Fair MMX - Our New Friend Bob Fossil !

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 16:33:46 GMT

Although the 4th of July doesn't hold as much relevance to us Brits we still did it in style with an awesome street fair up in Kentish Town north London.

The weather was perfect as was the company which included a whole host of local celebrities including Rich Fulcher who is better known as The Mighty Boosh's 'Bob Fossil' amongst others.

Fire in Cairo - Django Django

Sun, 27 Jun 2010 11:41:01 GMT

Really like this video

Think we will be hearing much more from these young men

Django Django WOR from DJANGO TV on Vimeo.

Dave Mothersole: Adventures in Goa 86

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 09:56:40 GMT

Check out this great article from dear friend of the Russell Club Dave Mothersole. Dave has been a top flight professional DJ for over 20 years with an awesome heritage and an even more prestigious record collection and knowledge of the Dance music scene. A true insight into this now legendary period of late 20th century underground movement Goa 86'

Washed Out - Life of Leisure

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 14:56:17 GMT

Russell Club thoroughly recommends this outfit named Washed Out for some very elegant dreamy summer listening (as featured on James Delay's 'Sunny Timez' Mixtape. Check out their MySpace

James Delay - Sneak Preview

Sun, 06 Jun 2010 12:26:31 GMT

Check out super talented producer James Delay on his Sound Cloud profile. A collection of remixes that are quickly gaining attention from across the board. His remix of Rhianna's 'Rude Boy' has received critical acclaim and nearly 3000 listens so far. Look out for James Delay as a future Russell Club recording artist! James Delay on Sound Cloud

jamieblanco.co.uk

Sun, 06 Jun 2010 12:10:06 GMT

Check our Russell Club Records debut artist Jamie Blanco at his newly launched solo website. Much more to come from this very exciting and hugely talented artist. jamieblanco.co.uk

Ross Allen: The Birthday Meltdown

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 22:53:50 GMT

Russell Club Records proudly wishes a very happy birthday to Ross Allen, a very dear friend of the Russell. Best Wishes and many many Happy Returns. Ross Allen is a true connoisseur of music and transmits a weekly radio show, this weeks being a birthday special which you can download here for free meltdown

RC005

Thu, 20 May 2010 11:02:01 GMT

Russell Club Records website – russellclubrecords.com

RC004

Thu, 20 May 2010 10:45:11 GMT

Russell Club Records A4 letterhead paper

RC003

Thu, 20 May 2010 10:37:56 GMT

Russell Club Records business card (Dave Vega)

RC002.1

Thu, 20 May 2010 10:29:10 GMT

CD version of RC002 supplied alongside the vinyl release

RC002

Thu, 20 May 2010 10:04:19 GMT

Debut release from Russell Club Records. 3 track 10” vinyl, written, performed and produced by Jamie Blanco. RC002 is limited to 300 copies, all of which are hand packaged and individually numbered. The release is wrapped in tracing paper that seals the record in the sleeve. Owners have to break the packaging to access the record therefore spoiling the product.

Tracklist
1)   Beach of Mind
2)   Hours Inbetween
3)   11:06 (Other side)

RC001

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 15:00:34 GMT

Russell Club flyer. Weekly Russell Club party every Friday at Tommy Flynn’s – Camden, London (Circa 2006)