Release Date Digital: May 17th, 2013
Release Date 3LP Vinyl: June 21st, 2013

Counter Future is the third release in Equinox Records’ Sound Exposure compilation series, which debuted back in 2004. This album also marks the 50th release on the label and acts as the 10th anniversary compilation, making it a truly special and momentous affair.
“I wanted the selection to sound timeless yet still have a modern, futuristic vibe”, says label founder and compiler Günter Stöppel aka DJ Scientist. The first release in the Sound Exposure series, Welcome to the Neo Golden Age, defined the dual organic/electronic sound that the label has come to be known for. With this latest instalment of the series Scientist wants to set another important landmark for the label’s growing catalogue.
Counter Future is far from just a simple label sampler, composed almost entirely of exclusive tracks from the label’s roster and its extended, worldwide family. It is a coherent and unique album that showcases the broad spectrum and various facets of today’s electronic and beat scenes. Across 21 tracks from 17 different artists Counter Future is the most extensive and complete release on the label yet: you’ll find acclaimed French producer Fulgeance alongside long term Equinox artists such as 2econd Class Citizen and Deckard as well as close affiliates and friends including Los Angeles’ Dday One and Glen Porter. Each artist contribute their own unique musical mark to this anniversary release.
The compilation opens with the epic, film score-like introduction by producer and bassist Geste. It is followed by one of the label’s latest signings, Italy’s Godblesscomputers with his track Romania. Next is the turn of Greek producer Andreikelos and his Beautiful Mountain of Algos, a powerful downbeat and melodic composition. Germany’s Skyence contributes the haunting, neo space age electronica of Scars while Finest Ego Beat Championship winner Playpad Circus brings the splendid Megalomaniac. Fulgeance provides the epic Cypher with his trademark swing and bounce, Anthony Drawn teams up with Graciellita from L.A. on the stunning Lighthouse. 2econd Class Citizen then rediscovers his love for folk, hip-hop and uplifting but melancholic strings on I That I Am and Haunted Days & Witch’s Teat as well as Glen Porter provide their dose of instrumental hip-hop, uncompromising beats and guitar riffs which act as the perfect counter weight to the more electronic sounds on the album.
Counter Future is roughly divided into two parts with another Geste track, Exhale (Intermission), acting as the divider. Following this, come the vigorous Kill Ya Sound by L.A. producer Gone Beyond, Bit-Tuner’s bass heavy Getaway and Kopfklang’s Piet Mann 4, a very interesting composition from the upcoming Berlin producer. Next up, Deckard provides a stunning composition with St. Ella, while 2econd Class Citizen re-appears with another exclusive track, On Emptiness, originally released on his classic 2009 album A World Without. This new version reworks the original with added piano by Kevin Matthews. Underground L.A legend Dday One supplies Anechoic Chamber, J. Baracuz delivers Before The Storm, Andreikelos teams up with Bombers Of Consciousness and Kopfklang provides his second track Ave Mensch, a darker production that is followed by Canada’s David Vangel’s I Heard You Sing, the last track of the album. The song closes the compilation with beautiful choruses and vocals, accompanied with the kind of soulful drumming Vangel has made his trademark.
Despite its length Counter Future remains a cohesive listen and manages to once again showcase the amalgamation of sounds and styles that the label has become known and loved for. All of which makes it an essential album for fans of Equinox Records both old and new.
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▼ Tracklist ▼
(01) Geste – Inhale (Spitting Concrete Intro)
(02) Godblesscomputers – Romania
(03) Andreikelos – Beautiful Mountain of Algos
(04) Skyence – Scars
(05) Playpad Circus – Megalomaniac
(06) Fulgeance – Cypher
(07) Anthony Drawn – Lighthouse (feat. Graciellita)
(08) 2econd Class Citizen – I That I Am
(09) Haunted Days & Witch’s Teat – Landing Strip
(10) Glen Porter – The Devil’s Chariot
(11) Geste – Exhale (Intermission)
(12) Gone Beyond – Kill Ya Sound
(13) Bit-Tuner – Getaway
(14) Kopfklang – Piet Mann 4
(15) Deckard – St. Ella
(16) 2econd Class Citizen – On Emptiness (Keys Re-Work)
(17) Dday One – Anechoic Chamber
(18) J. Baracuz – Before The Storm
(19) Andreikelos – Roots Go Deep (feat. Bombers of Consciousness)
(20) Kopfklang – Ave Mensch
(21) David Vangel – I Heard You Sing
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▼ Shoplinks ▼
Digital:
Equinox Online Shop
iTunes
Soul Seduction
Amazon
Musicload
Juno Download
Beatport
DJShop.de (coming soon)
Vinyl (Pre-Order):
Equinox Online Shop
— 3LP + Flexi Disc Bundle
— Regular 3LP Version
HHV.de
— 3LP + Flexi Disc Bundle
— Regular 3LP Version
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▼ Pictures & Press Info ▼
http://press.e-q-x.net/eqx050/eqx050.htm
Release Date Digital: Sept 8th
Release Date Vinyl: Sept 17th (Sept 4th on the Equinox Online Store)
Just a few months after the release of his successful debut double LP “For A Better Tomorrow” and his singles “Andromeda” and “Günesim”, Deckard is ready for the next strike. “Echoes From The Past” is an unreleased album that was produced during the years 2000 to 2005 and is finally ready to drop in September this year.
After some dusting off, polishing and re-mastering, the 9 tracks sound as contemporary and fresh as back then. Deckard himself calls it “Instrumentals out of a time when beats where still beats” – classically arranged drums, assembled with futuristic sound elements – already making up the classic dark sound that Deckard is now known for.
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The travel into time past starts with “A Black Hole (Part 2)”, a deep and hauling tune, that, as the name promises, might be able to absorb you entirely. The following track, “Defunked”, is a more club friendly but equally deep song that hasn’t lost any of its freshness over the years. Next up, „Haunted Beats“ and the title track „Echoes From The Past“ are more classical, “triphoppy” and dark, reminiscent of some of the early heroes of the genre such as Krush, Spooky or DJ Cam.
Listening to the following tracks, it shows how far Deckard’s production and arranging skills were already advanced at that time: The grooving “Endzeit” paints images of gloomy machine halls in the year 2050, “Gedankenjäger”, German for “mind hunter”, is hypnotic but yet pushing, “Shadows” saws into your ear canals with distorted bass sounds, while “Slow Body Movement” offers a few more soulful and jazzy shades and concludes the album to full satisfaction.
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„Echoes From The Past“ includes 9 tracks, while a bonus track is offered for the vinyl buyers. The limited LP release additionally is sold as a bundle package that even contains a second unreleased album from Deckard’s vast archive entitled “Underground und Subkultur”.
„Echoes From The Past“ is released as part of a two-piece “Unheard & Recovered” series on Equinox Records. Part 2 of the series will be the unreleased solo full length by DJ Scientist, an equally deep and meticulously produced album with great unheard material from his archives.
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Tracklist
Digital:
(01) A Black Hole (Part 2)
(02) Defunked
(03) Haunted Beats
(04) Echoes From The Past
(05) Endzeit
(06) Gedankenjäger
(07) Fear
(08) Shadows
(09) Slow Body Movement
Vinyl:
A |
(01) A Black Hole (Part 2)
(02) Defunked
(03) Haunted Beats
(04) Echoes From The Past
(05) Endzeit
B|
(06) Gedankenjäger
(07) Fear
(08) Shadows
(09) Slow Body Movement
(10) Headz Theme (Vinyl Bonus)
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Shoplinks
Digital:
iTunes
Juno Download
Beatport
Equinox Online Store
soulseduction.com
amazon.com
musicload.de
djshop.de
Vinyl:
Equinox Records Online Store:
—Regular Vinyl Version (LP)
—LP + CD Bundle Offer
—LP + 2LP Bundle Offer
hhv.de
Kudos Records
Grenade Offencive (Greece)
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Pictures & Press Info
http://press.e-q-x.net/eqx041/eqx041.htm
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Release Date Digital: March 30th, 2012
Release Date Vinyl: April 13th, 2012
After the successful release of Deckard’s astonishing debut album “For A Better Tomorrow” as well as the “Andromeda” single in December/January we present the third and final strike: “Günesim”, now with brand new versions, is the second single which should have listeners spellbound to the addicting track that features the Turkish singer Deniz Cagli.

Picture by Marie Chatard
The song “Günesim”, originally performed by the famous German-Turkish actor Idil Üner, was featured in the German movie “Im Juli” (In July) by Fatih Akin and is now translated into the present with the contemporary beats on Deckard’s single.

Deniz Cagli
The release heads off with a remix by one of Germany’s biggest newcomer talents, Anthony Drawn, who recently released his new album on Sichtexot Records and has been featured on compilations such as Project Mooncircle’s Finest Ego sampler. His remix, a deep electronica tune with a dubsteppish vibe, convinces with thrilling drums and a great arrangement, providing the perfect background for the beautiful vocals.

The remix is followed by a shortened edit of Deckard’s classic original version that should appeal to the radio djs while the 3rd track, an extended alternate take, adds a more robotic twist to the soulful voice. The single then continues with another exclusive tune by Deckard himself called “Near Dawn” and is concluded with instrumental and acapella versions of “Günesim”.

Anthony Drawn
To continue with the “Black On Black” vinyl series, “Günesim” is, alongside the extended digital EP, released as a nice limited 7” single. Both, vinyl and digital versions as well as the video for the original version of “Günesim” that is already turning heads on Youtube and tape.tv, should give this amazing track a new push and the publicity that it deserves.

Tracklists:
Vinyl:
A|
(01) Günesim (feat. Deniz Cagli) (Anthony Drawn Remix) mp3
B|
(02) Günesim (feat. Deniz Cagli) (Original Version) mp3
Digital:
(01) Günesim (feat. Deniz Cagli) (Anthony Drawn Remix) mp3
(02) Günesim (feat. Deniz Cagli) (Original Version) mp3
(03) Günesim (feat. Deniz Cagli) (Alternative Version) mp3
(04) Near Dawn mp3
(05) Günesim (Anthony Drawn Remix) (Instrumental)
(06) Günesim (Instrumental)
(07) Günesim (feat. Deniz Cagli) (Acapella)
Shop Links for Digital Release:
iTunes
Juno Download
Equinox Online Store
Bandcamp
soulseduction.com
amazon.com
musicload.de
Buy the limited edition Vinyl Release:
Equinox Records Online Store
hhv.de
sichtexot.de
Links
http://www.facebook.com/dasdeckard
http://www.soundcloud.com/dasdeckard
http://www.facebook.com/anthonydrawn
http://deckard-worldwide.com
http://www.last.fm/music/deckard
Pictures & Press Info
http://press.e-q-x.net/eqx036/eqx036.htm
Release Date Digital: December 16th, 2011
Release Date Vinyl: December 23rd, 2011 (Equinox Pre-Sale)
Release Date Vinyl: January 16th, 2012 (Worldwide)
Deckard took his time – after 3 successful EPs, numerous sampler contributions and remixes, the well respected producer from Munich releases his long awaited first full length album “For A Better Tomorrow”.
At a running time of 53 minutes, 12 songs are seamlessly and tightly packed resulting in a compact album that keeps a continuous arc of suspense. Furthermore, Deckard is able to give his album a timeless touch. “For A Better Tomorrow” sounds contemporary and mature – like a gloomy yet prudent version of the future. While, at the same time, the partly sample-based titles and spoken word bits are traces into the past. With the album Deckard aka Attila Makai proves once again that he is an exceptionally talented musician, who is able to stand in the top ranks of producers on an international level.

“For A Better Tomorrow” should be experienced as a whole but there are a few songs that need to be mentioned solely:
“Noir Desire (Part 2)“ is the only track of the album which was released previously on one of Deckard’s EPs (Future World, 2009). Like no other song on the album it defines his trademark sound: deep, grumbling bass lines, long-drawn-out pads, combined with monotonous, trippy drums.
“Günesim“ – the only non-instrumental track on the album – features the beautiful female voice of the Turkish singer Deniz Cagli. It is a cover version of a song that became popular in the mainstream as being featured in the German movie “Im Juli” (In July) by Fatih Akin where it is performed by the famous German-Turkish actor Idil Üner. Deckard’s version translates the folky track into the present with a dubsteppish tempo. The instrumental sneaks along in deep manner and works as a perfect background for the vocals.
Next, “Andromeda”, which will released as a limited vinyl 12“ with remixes by Bit-Tuner and the Russian producer team Demokracy in late November, is special in its own way. It’s a Sci-Fi Reggae Dub Downbeat track, that has no equals. It will be a delightful track for beat fanatics as well as Dub connoisseurs worldwide.
On further tracks like “The Dawn“ Makai proves his versatility and demonstrates that his music is not only compatible for home listening but additionally should work for DJ use as well. “Leaving”, one of the older tracks on the release, moves forward with a driving beat and bridges to the last third of the album that turns out to be a bit more experimental.

Deckard’s “For A Better Tomorrow“ is an astonishing debut where Makai delves into every song with abandonment and sensitivity which helps him to master his technique like few others. The fate of this album remaining as a timeless classic should be up to the listeners. But it will definitely be an album, that they will return to in order to lose oneself in his soundscapes again – whether it’s after the first hearing, after a couple of days or even after a year.

„For A Better Tomorrow“ is dedicated to Makai’s pregnant defacto partner – let’s hope for a successful “debut” here as well. The album will be released late december / early January on the German Electronica label Equinox Records on double vinyl and digitally.
Deckard – For A Better Tomorrow (eqx-033) by Equinox Records
Tracklist
(01) Intro mp3
(02) Head Off mp3
(03) Noir Desire (Part 2) mp3
(04) Günesim (feat. Deniz Cagli) mp3
(05) Andromeda mp3
(06) Interlude I mp3
(07) The Dawn mp3
(08) Leaving mp3
(09) For A Better Tomorrow mp3
(10) Where Are We? mp3
(11) Interlude II mp3
(12) Land Of Souls mp3
Shop Links for Digital Release:
iTunes
Juno Download
Beatport
Equinox Online Store
soulseduction.com
amazon.com
musicload.de
play.com
Buy the Vinyl Release:
Equinox Records Online Store
hhv.de
Kudos Records
Grenade Offencive (Greece)
Links
http://www.equinoxrecords.com/artists/deckard
http://www.facebook.com/dasdeckard
http://deckard-worldwide.com/
http://www.last.fm/music/deckard
http://www.myspace.com/djdeckard
http://www.soundcloud.com/dasdeckard
Pictures & Press Info
http://press.e-q-x.net/eqx033/eqx033.htm
For press inquieries please contact Marie of DaPledge Promotion:
Marie Chatard / DaPledge
contact at dapledge.com
“Andromeda” is the first single for the upcoming debut album by Deckard entitled “For A Better Tomorrow“.
The release heads off with the original version of “Andromeda“, an incredibly well produced downbeat/electronica tune with a new twist that blends into a grooving sci fi dub/reggae part, refined with a catchy flute sample. Even though there is a dark mood in almost all of Deckard’s music this great track should put a smile on everyone’s face.

Limited 12″ edition of 111 hand stamped and numbered copies
Bit-Tuner, the legendary producer from Switzerland, is first to remix the tune. The result is a completely new sounding, heavyweight and club friendly electro track that impresses us with interesting changes, thrilling drums and deep synth sounds. This definitely should be any dj’s favourite!
Next up are Demokracy from Russia. The producer team recently won the Equinox remix competition for the French artist Geste and already released projects and tracks via the labels Robox-Neotech, Error Broadcast, Project: Mooncircle and Svetlana Industries. Now they are proving their skills with a kind of abstract version of “Andromeda” that switches from 5/4 to 3/4 rhythms, but, in some way, can still make your head nod! The track then develops into a beautiful clockwork sample that catches up with Deckard’s reggae vibe and completely blew our minds because of its unexpected approach towards the song.

Bonus Tape that comes with the first 25 copies of the 12″ edition
Last but not least, Rowpieces of the Soul Bros. collective from Munich provides a pushing, yet mellow drum & bass version of the album track “The Dawn” that should work on the dancefloor but also should sound well in your headphones.
Additionally, on the digital version of this limited vinyl single you can find an alternative mix of “The Dawn” by Deckard himself which adds even more flavour to the whole EP.
The complete “Andromeda” single is packed with great music and should be a nice teaser for the long awaited debut release, due out in late December via Equinox Records.

Complete 12″/Tape edition with Download Card.
The vinyl 12″ is limited to 111 hand numbered copies and introduces the Equinox “Black On Black” vinyl series which provides limited 12″s without artwork to pay homage to underground vinyl club culture and keep it alive. Furthermore, 25 cassettes will be given away as a bonus to the first customers that by directly on the Equinox Online Store.
Deckard – Andromeda (eqx-032) by Equinox Records
Vinyl:
A|
(01) Andromeda mp3
(02) Andromeda (Bit-Tuner Remix) mp3
B|
(03) Andromeda (Demokracy’s Clockwork Sci-Fix) mp3
(04) The Dawn (Rowpieces Remix) mp3
Digital:
(01) Andromeda mp3
(02) Andromeda (Bit-Tuner Remix) mp3
(03) Andromeda (Demokracy’s Clockwork Sci-Fix) mp3
(04) The Dawn (Rowpieces Remix) mp3
(05) The Dawn
Release Date Digital: November 25th, 2011
Release Date Vinyl: November 25th, 2011
Shop Links for Digital Release:
iTunes
Juno Download
Beatport
Equinox Online Store
Bandcamp
soulseduction.com
amazon.com
Buy the limited edition Vinyl Release:
Equinox Records Online Store
hhv.de
Kudos Records
Grenade Offencive (Greece)
Pictures & Press Info
http://press.e-q-x.net/eqx032/eqx032.htm
“das Abstrakt“, Deckard‘s premier official work, was originally released as a limited 150 copies vinyl 12″ in 2004.
However, the now very collectable white label pressing didn’t remain unnoticed: magazines and websites in Germany praised the release and De-Bug even stated that it is “one of the very rare EPs that can rival early releases by (DJ) Vadim” and noticed the dense and complex beats Deckard is now known for.
Furthermore, “das Abstrakt” led to various production works for a bunch of labels and also was the reason that Deckard got signed to Equinox Records to relase his follow up EP “Noir Desire” and the successful 2009 release “Future World“.

Now, in 2011, we are proud to unleash this stunning EP on the Equinox imprint and make it available again worldwide. To support the digital release a super limited autographed reissue is available as well. The 40 hand numbered copies come along in a beautiful silk screen picture sleeve – a serious gimmick for all vinyl lovers and collectors.
Tracklist Digital:
(01) Flux
(02) Utopia
(03) A Black Hole
(04) Das Abstrakt (FREE DOWNLOAD)
(05) Hope
Tracklist Vinyl:
A |
(01) Intro
(02) Flux
(03) Utopia
B |
(04) A Black Hole
(05) Das Abstrakt (FREE DOWNLOAD)
(06) Hope
Equinox Records celebrates its 25th release with a deluxe limited edition box set. Containing a 7inch as well as a custom USB Stick (only with the first 50 copies!!), the main part of the beautiful collector’s box is a 50-minute audio cassette (yes, a real tape!) featuring two incredible Equinox megamixes by Buddy Peace and Phonatic.
Buy the limited boxset right here: Deluxe Edition / Regular Edition
Not only that the two deejays had access to the original tracks from the past 24 releases on Equinox Records (plus tracks from the Equinox.Digital and Audiac catalogue), label founder Günter Stöppel a.k.a. DJ Scientist dug through the archives and supplied them with additional and seperated layers, instrumental versions and acapellas. This gave them the opportunity to really blend and mash up the tunes, resulting in a never heard before sound experience.

Free Download the Megamixes right here: Buddy Peace Vs. Phonatic – The Equinox Megamixes
Phonatic from Würzburg / Germany, whose mix can be found on side A of the tape, has been part of the Equinox fam for a long time. Having released well-received mix-cds on the sublabel Audiac as well as providing the last two album preview mixes for Ceschi and 2econd Class Citizen, he has now out-done himself with his 25 minute megamix. Including possibly more than 50 tracks and countless extra layers blended on top, it became a true masterpiece and example of how to use an ableton live / mpd set up in full effect.
To follow on side B of the tape, we find Buddy Peace. Buddy is far from being a no name DJ and has earned a huge fan base of mixtape and underground hip-hop followers over the years. Besides doing dj gigs around the world, having played some of Europe’s biggest festivals and being the support DJ for Prince Po (of Organized Konfusion), he has done several mixes for well-known labels such as Warp, Lex, Bully and Sage Francis’ Strange Famous Records (which he is currently signed to). With his version of the Equinox megamix he definitely took it to the next level: Buddy transformed and mashed the tracks to a completely new and original sounding 25-minute mixture. Using remarkable bits of the songs, chopping them up and adding new drums while maintaining a minimalistic and intelligent touch, this megamix became very special and brilliant.

Buy the limited boxset right here: Deluxe Edition / Regular Edition
Next up, the A side of the vinyl 7inch contains an unreleased remix by Deadpan Darling’s “Laugh Track” by Munich based artist Deckard. With this track, Deckard proves once more that he is one of the best downbeat producers in Europe, giving the track an even darker feel, surrounded by dense sounds and striking drums. On the flipside, 2econd Class Citizen’s classic “Wishing Well” gets reworked by The Raincoatman and Vangel from Canada. Although this tune has been remixed previously, this new version gives it a new groovy feel with its additional bass and wah wah guitars.
2econd Class Citizen – Wishing Well (The Raincoatman Vs. Vangel Remix) (eqx-025) by Equinox Records
Furthermore, on the digital version of the remixes release, we find a new version of the early 70s recording “A Year And A Day” by the legendary UK group The Peddlers (with Roy Phillips) by Twistedlogic & Pesticyde and also a new version of “A New Day”, another tune by 2econd Class Citizen this time remixed by DJ Phonatic, showcasing his producer skills as well. Concluding the remixes, electronic producer lodsb (of Karhu) re-works (or better “re-destroys”) Asup’s “Untitled”, that can originally be found on a 7inch picture disc recording on Audiac, into a devasting, uncompromising and thrilling new track.

And finally, the first 50 of the 250 copies of the sets include a USB stick that contains the long time lost and now recouped 2007 tour video with unseen live footage by Ceschi, Noah23, The Dedicated Beatheads, 2econd Class Citizen and more. However, if you miss the limited package with the stick, all copies include a download link for the video as well as the digital version of the remix release and more bonus material, making “Equinox presents – The 25th” a worthy package for all music lovers and collectors.
Free Download the Megamixes:
Buddy Peace Vs. Phonatic – The Equinox Megamixes (Free Download in 192 kbps, 66 mb) (Right mouseclick, safe target as)
OR
Buddy Peace Vs. Phonatic – The Equinox Megamixes (Free Download in 320 kbps, 99 mb) (Right mouseclick, safe target as)
Shop links for vinyl:
hhv.de (Normal Edition)
hhv.de (Deluxe Edition)
Vinylkingz.de
Kudos Records
Sound-Station.at
Shop links digital release:
iTunes
Juno Download
soulseduction.com
amazon.com
musicload.de
finetunes.net
The box set release consists of the following parts:
PART I – THE EQUINOX MEGAMIXES (Audio Cassette, eqx-025ac)
Buddy Peace Vs. Phonatic – The Equinox Megamixes
featuring music by Ceschi, 2econd Class Citizen, DJ Scientist, Arcsin, Deckard, Geste, Kraddy, Vangel, Emynd, Free The Robots, K-The-I??? & many others.
|A|
(01) Phonatic – Equinox Megamix I (preview 1, preview 2)
|B|
(02) Buddy Peace – Equinox Megamix II (preview 1, preview 2, preview 3)
*******
PART II – THE UNRELEASED REMIXES (7inch/Digital, eqx-025/eqx-025dgtl)
Various Artists – The Unreleased Remixes
|A|
(01) Deadpan Darling – Laugh Track (Deckard Remix) (listen)
|B|
(02) 2econd Class Citizen – Wishing Well (Raincoatman Vs. Vangel Remix) (listen)
Digital Release with Download Code:
(01) Deadpan Darling – Laugh Track (Deckard Remix) (listen)
(02) 2econd Class Citizen – Wishing Well (The Raincoatman Vs. Vangel Remix) (listen)
(03) The Peddlers – A Year And A Day (Metamorphosis) (Twistedlogic & Pesticyde Remix) (listen)
(04) 2econd Class Citizen – A New Day (Phonatic Remix) (listen)
(05) Asup – Untitled (Lodsb Remix) (listen)
(06) Deadpan Darling – Laugh Track (Deckard Remix) (Instrumental)
*******
PART III – THE EQUINOX 2007 TOUR VIDEO (USB Stick, eqx-025usb)
One Year & A Day – The Equinox 2007 Tour Video
featuring Ceschi, Noah23, The Dedicated Beatheads (DJ Scientist & DJ Snatchatec)
& 2econd Class Citizen
______________
release pictures by Sindy Kretzschmar
The “Future World EP” is the first release on the new Equinox Records sublabel EQUINOX.DIGITAL. Deckard, the Downbeat / IDM mastermind from munich, creates a fantastic debut for the label as well as an astonishing and long awaited follow-up release to his “Noir Desire EP”.
The 5 tracks are packed with complex sound layers and spheres, shifting between the rhythms of hauling impulsive machinery and spacy melodies. These immense soundscapes fully live up to the name “Future World”. Deckard is able to create a cosmos of his own, captivating the listener and leaving us with great expectations for his upcoming full length release.
Shoplinks:
Juno Download
iTunes
finetunes.net
Get the free track “Noir Desire (Part 2)” right here.
(01) Surgery mp3
(02) Noir Desire (Part 2) mp3
(03) Futureworld mp3
(04) Alpha 79 mp3
(05) Is This The End?
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.
The “One Year & A Day” EP is a teaser from the forthcoming full-length compilation of the same name on Equinox Records due out in January 2008. This collection of 6 raw, beat-driven compositions will introduce the listener to the album’s aesthetic focus, giving them a fresh first-impression of what it will sound like. Moreover, the beautifully designed picture disc will not only satisfy the growing number of Equinox collectors, but it will also be a vital club tool for DJs while also sounding quite at home in your iPod headphones and on your personal turntable.
Starting off the release is Free The Robots from Santa Ana, who is one of the most in-demand dj- and production acts in Los Angeles right now. His energetic song “Times Like This” is an instant classic that was previously released only on CD. Once the first chord hits your speakers, it will draw you in, leave you begging for more. Next up is Deckard hailing from Munich, Germany who is already well known by Equinox-Fans from his “Noir Desire” EP. His song “Dignity Of Men” is another shining masterpiece among his deeply grooving sound collages. One more name recognizable from previous EQX releases is Emynd, the nomadic DJ/Producer from Philly. Those familiar with Emynd’s work who think they know what to expect from him on this release are of course proven wrong once again. His soulful “Another Postmodern Sunset” is a warm and animated instrumental Hip-Hop track that once again proves his rich stylistic versatility as a producer. Brenmar from Chicago is another artist to keep an eye on. Whether he is performing live on stage or working in his studio, he is always pushing the envelope and exploring how beautiful the combination of big drums, found instruments and noise can be. His contribution “Watermelon Chunks” is no exception. While Brenmar has become an essential part of his hometown’s music/recording-scene, SNTC. and J. Baracuz are still relatively unknown, but rest assured, these are two names that you will remember for years to come. Listening to both of their tracks it is obvious that the future will be theirs.
But, until then, let us enjoy the present, and spend some time with some fine, forward-thinking music… for one year and a day.
Note: 4 of the 6 tracks on this EP are exclusive to this picture disc.
The Equinox 10inch Series was released between winter 2005 and summer 2006. Each of the four parts of the vinyl series was limited to 500 handnumbered copies, including a lovely and exceptional cover artwork and inlay. Now, for the first time, ten tracks of the series are pieced together to form a compilation, on which each artist presents his unique vision of sound:
DiViNCi (the MPC virtuoso of the Sol.illaquists Of Sound) is featured with the incredible “PUSH Beat” and the concluding “Calm Persuasion”, Deckard from Munich presents 3 beautifully arranged downbeat compositions off his “Noir Desire EP”. Then, comprised of frozen synths and hard hitting drums, Arcsin from New York is offering 3 tracks taken from his “Uprock Citizen EP”, and last but not least DJ Scientist, the owner of Equinox Records himself, completes the album with two of his impressing sound and beat collages: “Atarius” and the melancholic “Autumn Leaves”.
This compilation will only be available digitally – for a limited time of 1 year (ending May 2008) – so go and check it out at ITunes, Beatport, Finetunes, and many other digital stores!
Deckard aka Attila Makai is one of the most promising European downbeat producers today. Having independently released a limited edition vinyl EP in 2004 called “dasABSTRAKT”, his musical abilities immediately caught the attention of the Swiss label Ish Records. Later, he was featured on their compilation “The Now Factor” which featured two of his compositions alongside artists from all over the world. Yet these by far have not been the only contributions Deckard has made to the beautiful world of music. Over the past few years he has released around 60 tracks on his own internet based network “Foundation-Crew.com” – which also serves to unite an online community of producers from Paris to Berlin.
Now, Deckard has found a home at Equinox Records. With the “Noir Desire EP” he has made another leap forward, displaying his humbling vision of downtempo beats. Still, you can hear the influences of early MoWax, and the sound of musicians such as DJ Krush and DJ Cam, but always with his personal twist and unique use of athmospheric tones and melodies. Deckard proves his style to be exceptional and pushes himself to the ranks of today’s most cutting edge producers.