Releases « Equinox Records

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2econd Class Citizen “Divided Reality” (Digital / LTD 12″)

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2econd Class Citizen “A World Without” (2LP / CD / Digital)

Drawing from his palette of all things psychedelic, prog-rock, folk and traditional-song related, mixed with modern techniques of sampling and sequencing, 2econd Class Citizen aka Aaron Thomason creates music which transcends a multitude of genres to distil a wholly immersive experience.

With “A World Without”, his epic, debut full length, 2CC has out-done even himself in terms of the scale of production and ambition of the vast journey of song he has successfully encompassed. The music is awash with soaring sections of string-led beauty, doused with brooding passages of disquietening ambience and driven on by crashing drums layered with such subtle textures as to create a densely-woven sound that might take many listens to fully realise. Punctuated only with snatches of lost folk songs and striking contributions from US based song/wordsmith Ceschi Ramos and the deeply unsettling jamesreindeer, the album is an ever-changing, ever-refining kaleidoscope of melodies and directions. Each track touches on a subtly different part of the whole which, in turn, has the album slowly draw itself out in one great all-encompassing movement, carrying the listener off into a brave new world rarely visited in this current musical age.

Order the album at hhv.de with free exclusive T-Shirt:
2LP with T-Shirt
CD with T-Shirt

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Download a free 2econd Class Citizen Megamix by phonatic right here:
2econd Class Citizen - The Present & Past Megamix

Shop links for vinyl/cd edition:
HHV.de
Vinylkingz.de
Kudos Records
Rough Trade UK
loop 23.de
Sound-Station.at

Shop links for digital:
iTunes
Juno Download
soulseduction.com
musicload.de
amazon.com

Tracklist:

A|
(01) Step Inside mp3
(02) One By One (feat. Ceschi) mp3
(03) A New Day mp3

B|
(04) Wait For Me mp3
(05) On Emptyness mp3

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(06) Our Lady Of Solitude (feat. Reindeer) mp3
(07) The Day You’re Lost Or Found mp3
(08) Listen The Night (feat. Reindeer) mp3

D|
(09) From Where I Belong mp3
(10) A World Without mp3

About 2econd Class Citizen:

Twin loves for the psychedelic folk heritage of his fair isle blended with his great appreciation for all things boom bap and break related lead 2econd Class Citizen on to the inevitable path of composing his own works in order to combine these two seemingly separate musical strands. This diverse hybrid can be heard on both his EP releases “Divided Reality“ and “Wyred Folk” as well has the recently released “One By One” single which all have created a buzz of anticipation from a diverse collection of musical circles and gained him great reviews and quotes from well respected figures in the music scene. The astonishing debut album “A World Without” creates lavish tapestries of soundscapes, string melodies and driving acoustic guitar lines smelted together with rich bass and dusty drum-breaks to offer up wide-spectrums of emotive song-writing.

2econd Class Citizen Live:

In his live sets 2econd Classs Citizen recreates the complexity and depth of orchestration he has become known for, utilising sound editing software with live drum/pad work, to keep a strong improvisational aspect. 2CC has toured Europe in 2007 with Noah23 and Ceschi and has performed at festivals including Glastonbury (UK) and Soundwave (Croatia). Furthermore, he has shared stages with an eclectic mix of artists including Gong, Ugly Duckling and John Robinson (Scienz of Life). On top of this, he was just recently invited to produce a mix for the Solid Steel radio show (Ninja Tune) which will, without a doubt, introduce his music to a much bigger audience.

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2econd Class Citizen “One By One EP” (12″, Test Pressing)

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2econd Class Citizen “The Present & Past Megamix” (Download)

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2econd Class Citizen “One By One EP” (12″, Limited)

Departing from the highly acclaimed “Wyred Folk” EP debut on Equinox, this new release by 2econd Class Citizen bridges the way to his forthcoming album “Madrugada” (due out in fall 2009) and includes 6 great new tracks: 2 special EP mixes, a non-album tune and 3 exclusive remixes of “Step Inside“.

Focusing on sample based instrumental music on his previous works, the “One By One EP” now features the vocal talents of Ceschi Ramos, Reindeer (of Fbcfabric & Reindeer) and James pHoney. The title track is a hip hop, folk tinged masterpiece with Ceschi showcasing his inimitable style, switching effortlessly between stunningly beautiful harmonies and ridiculously good rapping. “For This We’ll Find No End” finds the two rappers/wordsmiths Reindeer & J. pHoney delivering their unique and totally original approach to the English language peerlessly over 2CC’s dirty drums. Next, on “The Day You’re Lost Or Found“, 2CC shows once again that he is on top of the game when it comes to creating instrumental Hip-Hop with deepness and power. Reminiscent of the vibe on “Wyred Folk”, this track might incorporate one of the most catchy samples ever found, built around a drumbeat and arrangement that leaves other contemporary beat makers far behind and proves that 2econd Class Citizen is in a class of its own.

Whereas the original compositions are in the vein of folk inspired instrumental hip hop and film score music, the remixes offer more electronic and “clubbier” versions, pleasing the DJ’s as well. Upcoming producer genius Christian Fischer aka Playpad Circus from Berlin goes first with his unique interpretation of “Step Inside”. Based around the vocal announcement of a maniac circus director: “Take a ride on a fantazmorgial carnival ride” – Chris plays around with this idea, twisting and distorting your mind with his complex bass and synth driven sounds taking you on a one of a kind sound trip unlike anything you may have heard for a while! Then, Bias (of Canteen Records and known for his works with Lewis Parker) sets the pace with his trademark style, combining hip hop beats with intricately arranged sounds to create a stunning laidback summer anthem. Finally, French beat maker Zoën offers another down-tempo version, that starts with a thrilling slow beat and transforms into a hypnotic drum and bass tune.

Please Note: Digital Release includes different Tracklisting and bonus remixes by Earthkeptwarm (amazing dub step remix!!) and Playpad Circus!

Shop links for vinyl edition:
HHV.de
Vinylkingz.de
Kudos Records
Rough Trade UK
loop 23.de
Sound-Station.at

A|
(01) For This We’ll Find No End feat. Reindeer & James pHoney mp3
(02) Step Inside (Playpad Circus Remix) mp3
(03) The Day You’re Lost Or Found (EP Mix) mp3

B|
(04) Step Inside (Bias Remix) mp3
(05) One By One feat. Ceschi (EP Mix) mp3
(06) Step Inside (Zoën Remix) mp3

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2econd Class Citizen “One By One EP” (Digital)

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2econd Class Citizen “Step Inside Remixes” (Digital)

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Various Artists “One Year & A Day – A Sound Exposure Vol.2″

Following the success of the teaser mini-album “One Year & A Day – The 5inch Files” that gained worldwide attention despite its limited pressing (a hand-numbered limited edition vinyl release, and the first ever 5inch series!), Equinox Records finally drops its second full length album, the second part of the sound exposure compilation series: “One Year & A Day – A Sound Exposure Vol.2”.

„This album is one of the biggest projects in my career. I have put together everything that defines my work for the label as well as what defines me as a DJ and a record collector. I am more than happy with the final result!” (DJ Scientist)

Handpicked from a motley stack of demos and promotional CDs, Günter Stöppel (aka DJ Scientist), the founder of Equinox Records, assembled a product that features 14 outstanding tracks by some of today’s most cutting-edge artists and producers. Spanning various genres and aesthetics, the compilation is as breathtaking in its breadth as it is in its execution. Whether it be a folk-rock inspired breakbeat banger such as 2econd Class Citizen’s “Wishing Well,” the forward-thinking electronic prog-rock tune “Times Like This” by Free The Robots, the original post-instrumental Hip-Hop track “Tibetisches Gutenachtlied” by Aqua Luminus III., or the thrilling “Octobre” by electro/IDM-wunderkind Geste, the second volume of the series succeeds in representing the pioneering ethos Equinox strives to uphold. Likewise, Arcsin’s rock ballad “Scarlet Fever” juxtaposed with the bitter-sweet lyrics of Deadpan Darling’s pop song “Laugh Track,” Emynd’s inexorable electro tune “Identity Through Alterity,” or the classical cinematic introduction by the famous 60s rock group The Peddlers, the “One Year & A Day” compilation covers a diverse range of styles and genres, illustrating the amalgam of sound Equinox is known for, resulting in nothing if not one of the most distinct and forceful collections of songs within the past several years.

The Peddlers – A Year And A Day (Metamorphosis)

This is the song that gave this compilation its name. Recorded in 1972 with the London Philharmonic Orchestra and released on the Album “Suite London” it was sung by the legendary composer and lyricist Roy Phillips. His unique and inimitable voice makes it the perfect intro for “A Sound Exposure Vol.2”.

Vangel – A Different Direction

It’s time for a change and we’re back: bigger, better, and louder. Equinox 2008. “A Different Direction” is the wake-up-call of this album.

Free The Robots – Times Like This

“Times Like This“ is an insatiable drum inferno that leaves you begging for more. Taken from the very limited Free The Robots debut-cd “The Prototype”, this track is THE electronic progressive rock song for the year 2008 and beyond. The vocals are sung by Phil Nisco.

2econd Class Citizen – Wishing Well (Re-Wyred Mix)

2econd Class Citizen is the master of contemporary electronic folk rock, and “Wishing Well“ is the genre’s prototypical hymn. In true postmodern fashion, because of a harddisk crash, the final version of this seemed to be lost forever. Now, one year after the release of an unmixed version on his EP „Wyred Folk“, we finally get the official version of this classic. Descry or rediscover: “Wishing Well“ is one of these songs, that won’t let you pass by unaffected.

Arcsin – Scarlet Fever

Since the label’s early days, the music of New York’s Arcsin accompanied me and Equinox. Who said he was too progressive and dark? His most recent album “Oculus Fang“ is a paragon of perfection, and though the noteworthy anthem “Scarlet Fever“ might be more accessible than most of his other work, the song still reflects the cold, brazen sound of post-9/11 New York. This is this album’s love song.

Brenmar – Cavernous

“Cavernous“ is not a merely skit, but an awe-inspiring and fascinating fragment of sound–full of tension and energy, blazing with anger and stirring your blood to just let you return back into a fair and beautiful dream.

Deadpan Darling – Laugh Track

Deadpan Darling is the music of Kingston and Ian Taggart a.k.a Blue Sky Black Death with the vocals of Ceschi Ramos of Toca and Anonymous Inc.. Ceschi travelled with Equinoix on the 2007 Tour and “Laugh Track” finally solidifies him as a recorded part of the label, making him the first vocal artist on Equinox. The bitter-sweet lyrics and the dallying-minimalistic production make it one of the album’s centerpieces. “Laugh Track” tells the story of somebody trying to escape reality; a story about battling the monotony of life. Wouldn’t it be nice to be constantly followed by laughing or a soundtrack in your head – something that nobody else could hear – a little push to get you through our often mundane reality?

Aqua Luminus III. – Tibetisches Gutenachtlied

Aqua Luminus III., producer of the obscure 88:Komaflash, is one of the most challenging composers of the German abstract hip-hop and electronic scene. Who is layering ancient rap heroes’ vocals on brutal beats better than him? “You try to run away but you can’t!”

Deckard – Dignity Of Men

With “Dignity of Men“ Deckard takes his sound to the next level. His typical sequential drums, a pulsing, hummy bass, an energetic guitar sample and a perfect arrangement make it one of the most barnstorming tracks ever made out of a breakbeat.

Geste - Octobre

„Octobre“ was the last track chosen for this compilation and was the first track ever made by the electo/IDM wunderkind Geste out of Paris. To me, it kind of symbolizes the work on this album: the calm before the storm and the storm itself. A story within the story…

DJ Sept - Morning Comes (Revised)

The original version of this track is found on the first DJ Sept demo that I received from a mutual friend. Finishing the revisited version for his EP “A Promise Never Given” was a long, hard endeavour, but it was certainly worth it. In my opinion, “Morning Comes (Revised)“ is a perfectly composed instrumental masterpiece. It has tension, energy, and emotion, all combined in a way that only Sept is capable of producing, fitting complexity with minimalism flawlessly.

Emynd – Identity Through Alterity

Emynd’s quest for the perfect beat isn’t over yet. “Identity Through Alterity” is five action packed minutes, garnished with breaks and 808-claps. This is the grand finale.

2econd Class Citizen – Change & Motion (Outro)

It’s like a movie’s end at the cinema: you don’t want to get up from your cozy seat.

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2econd Class Citizen “Wyred Folk EP”

Music made by an anonymous, mysterious phantom is always interesting but there isn’t much information available about 2econd Class Citizen who’s emergence on the scene has created a buzz of anticipation from a diverse collection of music circles.

2econd Class Citizen (Aaron Thomason) hails from Huddersfield, England and makes music that he simply calls “Wyred Folk”: a hybrid of electronically produced folk combined with instrumental Hip Hop. So far, his only release has been a 12″ EP called “Divided Reality” – a private press record that didn’t reveal much about him, except a simple list of songs and an email address on the label. With this lack of information, all we have left is his music, but thankfully, this music has stories to tell.

Swinging between melancholy and pure anger, strong guitar riffs mined from old psych rock records and the weeping voices lifted from old folk music, 2econd Class Citizen seems to find his real home in a crate of old and dusty vinyl. There is a beat but this is not Hip Hop – at least not as we know it. Yes, there are guitars, but this isn’t folk music anymore. An anonymous voice sings of being lonely within a hundred other voices and there is this music with a new sound, yet, somehow, it is still the old sound — the old loneliness. It is just that now we are listening to it again, for the first time – and we want to listen.

2econd Class Citizen sees himself as an arranger or conductor standing in front of an orchestra of forgotten records, waiting for their time to be played. His music is made up of layer upon layer of beats and samples that become more and more complex as the song progresses, finally ending in a crescendo of sound. Perhaps the music may not have enough bass for the “heads” and may not have enough noise for the “purists”, but who really cares when the result will catch the aware listener’s ear like no other record has in a long time. After all, here are the accents. Here is the feeling that Hip Hop may have lost. But Aaron himself wouldn’t dare to say these things so loudly.

The fantastic 6-track EP “Wyred Folk” has now been released on Equinox Records from Berlin. 2econd Class Citizen is also working on an album to be released in late 2007. A live set is under development that aims to recreate the complexity and depth of orchestration he has become known for, whilst bringing in musicians and using live sound editing software to keep a strong improvisational aspect.