'Madtech 03' Compilation Review

As the open air parties dwindle and autumn comes looming in, the latest compilation from Kerri Chandler's ‘MadTech Records’ is due to arrive, featuring 14 tracks by the leading names who have been making us dance all summer.

Bringing a whole host of new dancefloor weapons to see us through the colder months, the third compilation from the label is a guaranteed pick-me-up to warn off the summer blues and prepare for wrapped-up warehouse raving.

MadTech Records, offshoot to the long established ‘Madhouse’ imprint, has gradually progressed since its launch in 2012 to both keep a watchful eye on those new emerging talents, whilst nurturing and driving the careers of the scenes staple producers making a name for them selves as key players in the contemporary music scene.

Opening the 14 track release is UK producer Bontan with ‘The Memory’ (above), a fast paced groove with short horn stabs and soulful mutterings. Like the rest of the album, the tone is set for serious dancing as euphoric notes are out the window, making way for the raw, darker side of house music.

‘Losing It’ by Kashii is certainly worth a mention here – with Kashii himself now taking care of A&R for MadTech records, he is also responsible for helping shape the sound of the label, and the compilation ahead. As the name suggests, this track explores the depths of dancefloor dystopia with a chopped up discordant vocal and unapologetic driving bass line. We’ve all been victim to the groove and know exactly how it feels to lose your mind to a beat like Kashii’s.

‘Skyward’ from Circus boss Yousef brings in the rolling Latin influenced drums that have come synonymous with any techno lead banger, as it is exactly that. The drums truly lead this one, with warped mechanical sounds, straight from an industrial tool bench scattered throughout. Haunting vocals add to make this track a must-listen for any seasoned party goer.

The energy is switched from rolling drumbeats to hard hitting four to the floor with ‘Lock Out’ from Max Chapman (above), then right back to a deeper feel thanks to the No Artificial Colours track ‘Pisco Sour’. 

‘Hyper Muzik’ from Endless Music label owner Rockaforte brings the heat with a layered progression of ghostly synth sounds with a brass lead hook that refuses to dwindle. ‘Horizons’ from Montel finishes up the record with an ending that falls nothing short of groovy.

With a constant driving beat throughout that never drops, but only shifts, MadTech 03 has a distinctive sound filled with tracks that are sure to be right at home on dance floors across the nation. 

MadTech is currently available on Beatport. General release is Friday 18th September. 

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