London based label headed up by top selector and producer E. Alexander have enjoyed huge success since they launched back in 2021. Receiving big plays across the board from the likes of Hamish & Toby, Alec Falconer, Harry McCanna, and Alexandra the next EP comes from another London head illi. A well known face that has had made an impact in the thriving electronic metropolis that has already seen him program his own showcase at fabric as well as outings on Beeyou, Purism Wave, as well as his own ESP Records and Fancy Footwork imprints. Here illi presents a five-track EP that brings to light his skills in crafting funky tracks worthy of any dancefloor.
A clear sign of intent for the release, illi opens things up with lead track “Black Swan Skank” and the swing on this track is almost tangible. The depth of the bassline and the shrillness of the trumpet stabs with a seriously dubby edge is impressive. The attitude and energy that pours out of every corner of this track is, as is the rest of the Mui Mui back catalogue is a refreshing change from the myriad of tech laces house on the market.
Quickly following this is “One Toucan and a Packet” and this disco flecked heater sparkles in the morning sun and we are certain this, like the rest of the EP is going to provide some magical moments wherever it is aired. Moving on to “Night Crawlers” and while this is a touch deeper than the first two tracks on the release the stripped back nature allows more focus to land on the groove rather than musicality. The fluttering synth and airy atmospheres segue effortlessly into each other setting the scene for more after dark or sun up shenanigans.
“When Numbers Align” treads a much wonkier path but again, the change of pace and vibe here show yes another side to illi’s studio prowess. The glitched out inserts and bugged out synths add an updated sheen on a sound that Jesse Rose and his Dubsided crew were all too dastardly at pioneering. Sadly, we arrive at the last track on the release “Transdiegetic Occlusion” and all styles debuted on this release converge on this last track. Stretched synths fall like a fine mist around the extended rhode stabs and delicate brushed percussion.
You can pre-order MUIMUI004 from the Mui Mui Records Bandcamp.
More info on illi
Instagram | RA | Soundcloud | Discogs
More info Mui Mui Records
Facebook | SoundCloud | Instagram | Discogs
