- Established in 2011, it's unclear why it's taken Karlovak Records until now to put out their debut release. Run out of Stockholm by production partners Art Alfie and Mr Tophat, the label creates an avenue for the duo to persue their passion for raw house, away from the steelier, more measured aesthetic of their collectively-managed Junk Yard Connections imprint.
Loud, coarse kicks and upright hi-hats fuse on "SDIK Baby," with as enticing a bassline as you'll hear all year. Potent snapshots of whirling synth and heartfelt female soul vocals all contribute to the track's wonderfully organic, pumping ride. Devastatingly simple, never once does the record's eight-minute casing feel drawn out or overplayed. On the flip, "Marlboro Light" treads a techier domain, as severe stabs lead the dance with metallic, orchestral vigour. Burial-style vocals—albeit in fully unravelled form—add depth to the track's otherwise stern swing.
TracklistA1 SDIK BABY
B1 Marlboro Light