Welcome to edition 11 of XLR8R+. This month’s edition is for those who love groove and the beauty in subtlety, as we present two specialists in minimal-leaning production and one harder, more driving roller.
The latter of these comes from Kate Simko, the producer, film composer, live performer, and DJ hailing from Chicago, USA. “Spirit Release,” her contribution, is exactly what it says: inspired by the birth of her son, it has a deep, galloping groove with subtle tribal samples. The groove then gets groovier with Traumer, one of several rising talents in the French scene, who delivers “Transit,” an upbeat cut inspired by the minimal-centric beats flowing from Romania over the past decade or so. It’s a track many of you will recognize, having been a much-requested but unidentifiable part of Traumer’s recent sets. We close with a submission from Pola, the Hungarian artist, who delivers another Romania-inspired cut in “Selection.” Expect to hear this played out over summer.
The artwork on this occasion is supplied by Siko Tatour, a Palestinian visual artist, based in Haifa, Israel. His selection of photos portray emptiness and void, inspired by music’s ability to help his people free themselves from their limitations and pain.
We’ve also included an Artist Tips feature from Kate Simko, who offers some valuable guidance on collaboration; and a rare interview with Traumer.
We thank you for joining our independent movement.
Enjoy the music.
XLR8R Team
credits
released May 2, 2019
01. Kate Simko “Mental Release”
02. Traumer “Transit”
03. Pola “Selection”
Track 1 written and produced by Kate Simko.
Track 2 written and produced by Romain Reynaud.
Track 3 written and produced by Norbert Dunai.
supported by 22 fans who also own “XLR8R+011 (Traumer, Kate Simko, and Pola)”
All the tracks are great but Stepper is the standout for me! pounding syncopated kicks, rolling handdrums and playful sample work, dancefloor destroyer. Jack G.
supported by 15 fans who also own “XLR8R+011 (Traumer, Kate Simko, and Pola)”
This entire EP is insanely good, but this one would begin a peak hour mix and set the tone for an energetically funky smoked out ride. THANK YOU FOR THESE JOINTS!!!! 💣💣💕💕🔊🔊🔥🔥✊✊💯💯⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ DJ V From CHICAGO