Headphone Commute

I look back at 2022 and realize that I didn't put out the "usual" amount of mixes for the HC podcast. This is indeed because right after the celebration of the music from the year before, I was utterly preoccupied with the thoughts turned towards Ukraine. As a result, there were two "For Ukraine" mixes by Brian Housman of Stationary Travels and Peter can Cooten of Ambient Blog. In the last two weeks, with the annual Best of the Year tradition, I managed to broadcast and archive a few of my selections from each list, showcasing appearing artists. You can stream these via my Mixcloud account. But it's not the same as the typical fair. So today, I'm back, along with the amazing Mike Jedlicka of Optic Echo, to share his favourite vinyl selections of 2022. This is that one particular tradition that I refuse to let go of, with today's mix being the 12th instalment in the series. There is not much left to say, and we both hope the music speaks much louder. Please enjoy!

I've got something slightly different for you today than the usual fair. How are you feeling about atmospheric drum & bass this morning? To be fair, this is not the first time that I've showcased this genre on these pages (see Clima‘s Headphone Commute Mix or the super fun Chill & Bass Mix by Orangewarrior). Except for this time, it's also a label showcase, featuring very special selections from James Clements‘ newly launched Spatial imprint (a sub-label for his Auxiliary), with an ethos to “recapture the essence of the mid 90's scene” featuring classic breaks and heavy sub-bass. So far, the roster includes James' own celebrated ASC project, as well as Simon Huxtable's Aural Imbalance, but I suspect it may grow further, beyond the two. Meanwhile, because of the tight curation, each release is a beautiful and cohesive 12″ (yes, FINALLY available on vinyl) as well as a digital offering via the usual channels. In any case, this is an absolutely wonderful and very welcome journey for my sunny morning, and I hope that it'll be for you as well! I'll stop talking here but will include a pretty lengthy writeup (on my site) from the label boss himself. Enjoy! Tracklisting and more here: https://hcdi.gs/Spatial

I honestly wish that I could stop promoting this benefit compilation, titled For Ukraine, which is now on its second volume (see links below). I'd stop promoting because we wouldn't need the funds which would all be donated to International Rescue Committee (rescue.org) to support displaced children and families with vital supplies. Albeit somehow it has all receded in the background, and yet the war goes on. This time, I've enlisted the help of Peter van Cooten of ambientblog.net to compile and curate a mix, featuring 28 pieces selected from two volumes, all of them painstakingly edited to create a continuous journey and to entice you to purchase both volumes (with a third one on the way soon!) to experience the tracks in full. So you can treat this mix as a sampler, or a bonus if you've already contributed to our cause. “There are many changing instrumentations, moods and atmospheres,” says Peter about his selection, “I like to think of it as travelling in a fast-moving train, looking out the window at different landscapes gliding by…” Please share and help support our message.   Volume 1 : https://hcdi.gs/ForUkraine Volume 2 : https://hcdi.gs/ForUkraine2

About a week ago, in collaboration with Hollie Kenniff who curated the roster of artists, Headphone Commute released the first volume of the benefit compilation For Ukraine with 100% of all proceeds being donated to the International Rescue Committee (rescue.org). This is one of those things, folks, that does not need to be written about, promoted, or sold. Nevertheless, with the help of Brian Housman of Stationary Travels, I am happy to share with you an hour-long compilation teaser, featuring some of Brian's favourite pieces. It's only about half of the entire content, which you can now stream as part of our mix series and podcast, but we still ask you to share and help in any way that you can to support our message. Thanks in advance, and stay tuned for Volume Two!!! For Ukraine : https://hcdi.gs/ForUkraine

How would you like to hear 50 tracks from 50 releases from last year? Well, in this 14th instalment, Mathias Van Eecloo, of [previously] Eilean Rec. and [currently] LAAPS [for which he also made a very special mix], returns for his annual tradition of masterful selection of musical journeys from many of my favourite labels. Plenty for you here to unpeel and explore throughout the numerous genres and musical diversions. And although I usually feature this mix sometime in January, I think it's safe to admit that there is no better time like now. And, as usual, please enjoy responsibly and support the featured artists! We hope that you enjoy!

By now it's no secret that I'm a fan of Brian Housman‘s labour and his Stationary Travels site. Two years ago I even unveiled a brand new Best of the Year list, dedicated to his very own selections, appropriately titled “Music For Your Stationary Travels“. I suspect that the respect here is mutual since he recently revealed his highlights from music spotted on HC's Best of the Year feature. Yes, in this little corner of this strange and often ruthless “music business” it's less about competition and more about the support. And both of us support the music, at least through mixes or through words. And so, without any further ado, I present to you a reflection on the last year, as put together by Brian for this very special mix. There are lots of beautiful pieces on here, but as usual with this particular feature – less words and more music, yes? And please, be sure to support the featured artists and labels on this mix!

The current Best of the Year feature is well underway, and besides dragging you through all of the amazing albums that you've missed, I also think that you should be able to hear some, or, in this case, specifically the best vinyl of the last year, as selected by Mike Jedlicka. It's a beautiful journey that has introduced me to some new music as well, and I'm forever grateful for this special friendship that we've maintained over more than a decade. This is our 11th year in sharing this music, and if you like the choices, be sure to check out our past archive of Optic Echo Presents mixes. As usual with our podcasts – less words and more music, and please, be sure to support the featured artists and labels!

So only a few more days left to this year, but, more importantly, a few more days before I announce my Best of 2021 lists [which, just like you, I have been looking forward to], but before we wave another year farewell, I've got something exceptional to share with you. In fact, this is a celebration of two years, to be more precise – two years of releases from the amazing LAAPS imprint [which, if my memory serves me correctly, I've introduced on here back in the summer of 2020]. The label was created by Mathias Van Eecloo as a permanent sonic and visual continuity, with each release starting with the end of the previous one. And now, two years, four seasons, and 16 releases later, we've got this gorgeous 60-minute mix (curated by the label boss himself) showcasing each one… turning into what I may bluntly proclaim to be an exclusive compilation just for Headphone Commute! And this is just the beginning! A little birdie told me that the series will extend to exactly 100 releases, running for 12 years straight! But enough words, let's turn towards all this gorgeous music!

Some words about the mix from Night Gestalt: "My album "Thousand Year Waves" is all about waves - and the end of the world. Sailors have long known about 'rogue waves' in the ocean but it's only recently researchers have been able to record these rare monsters. In 1995 the Draupner oil platform was hit by a 25,6 meterhigh wave. The waves just before and after were around 12 meters. The platform was designed to withstand waves of 20 meters, which had been calculated to happen one time in 10 000 years. I think the end of the world will come in waves: climate change, economic crashes, viruses. And then - out of nowhere - a wave so big we couldn't even imagine it." See more details, a rambling intro, and full track listing here: http://hcdi.gs/Waves   https://hcdi.gs/Waves

After listening to a lot of music in the very same genre, sometimes you just need a headcleaner. You know? Today is a perfect day for that. Oh, and do you remember Sirat‘s Noir mixes? Those dark and beautiful concoctions, paying tribute to the film-noir genre “with its characteristic anti-heroes, femmes fatales, gangsters and dirty dealings.” Well, it just happens to be that Ernesto Gerez along with his partner in crime, Javier Campos, also dabble in some dub-infused delicious drum'n'bass under the project named Clima. So I've asked him to put together a very special Headphone Commute Mix, peppered, of course, with the tracks from this Spanish duo, to showcase their very special style. And so, folks, here we are – sharing with you about 45-minutes of some spacious, engaging, and inspiring music, in the genre which is often geared towards the dancefloor. I hope you enjoy as much as I have – this has been playing on repeat all day long here.   Read more info plus the entire tracklist here: http://hcdi.gs/Clima

I've recently covered some newly released soundtracks and mentioned a brand new film score by the New York-based cellist and composer, Clarice Jensen for an independent Mexican feature film, titled Identifying Features. This was released as an EP on October 29th by the ever-amazing 130701 imprint which continues to hold up a very high bar for the current drifts in present classical music. For this very special podcast, Dave Howell and I asked Clarice to put together an OST-themed mix, and if you only glance at the tracklisting, you will agree that the selection here is top-notch. And then the perfectly curated sonic journey is a whole other story. As usual, for mixes, I will reserve my words, and give Clarice some space to say a few things about this hour-long cinematic voyage. And as usual, please enjoy responsibly, support the featured artist, and subscribe to our podcast for more!   For full track listing and more details on the mix, go here: http://hcdi.gs/clarice

And there you have it, folks – the 300th episode of Headphone Commute Podcast! The very first mix was published exactly twelve years ago (about a year after the site was officially launched), and I simply used the platform to share some of my favourite recent finds, before the all-digital era of playlists (in fact, many of the features mixes were made from vinyl). The format quickly picked up, with many of my favourite artists showcasing their very own selections. The top mixes, to this day, still remain :papercutz' Dream Scores, Orangewarrior‘s Chilled Dubstep, and my very own selection of the Best of Modern Classical (of 2010). Somewhere throughout the last decade, I toyed with the idea of creating a record label and releasing compilations (like the monumental … and darkness came), but in the end, I always turned to mixes – they capture all there is to say. So without any further reminiscence, I present to you a mix by Franck Zaragoza, who releases on n5MD as Ocoeur – in fact, he's got a brand new album on the way! His latest, titled Connections, is scheduled to come out next Friday, September 10th, pressed on a beautiful, limited edition, transparent red double LP. A few of the tracks from this upcoming release are featured on this mix, curated exclusively for Headphone Commute. There's always more to say about the selection, but maybe I'll just let the music speak itself.

On July 13th, 2021, one of my all-time favourite labels, named after its inception date, 130701 celebrated its 20th birthday. What can I say about its output, its delicate curation, and its monumental impact on our lives? Just look at the roster of its artists, many of which are showcased in this exclusive mix put together by Dave Howell, and you will immediately be swept away in the beautiful torrent of music that has been so extraordinary comforting in the last two decades. I would even proclaim that because of this imprint, on which many of today's biggest names made their debut, the world is a different place, a richer place, and definitely better. Just look at HC's coverage of its releases – I think I wrote about every single one! There is so much more praise which I would like to publish, but Dave has also written a little bit about this special mix, and so I'd like to give him the stage for a moment. Meanwhile, enjoy the mix and please support the label! See the entire tracklisting and read more from Dave Howell on the mix here: http://hcdi.gs/130701

About, oh, eight years ago now (jeez!) I featured a Noir mix by Sirat, a DJ from Spain who hand-picked his favourite downtempo and trip-hop tracks to create a tribute to film-noir, “with its characteristic anti-heroes, femmes fatales, gangsters and dirty dealings”. It was a fantastic stroll down the rain-refreshed alley, which received a lot of praise among the followers of the genre (including yours truly). It seems that the mix has also left a wonderful impression on its creator – enough to create a long-awaited follow-up, “returning to those smoky sounds, and black and white environments…” Once again, the intention here is for you to create your very own movie of your mind, and transport yourself “to the universe of film noir.” Enjoy the many familiar bits on here (like that lovely Portishead track!) and discover new artists along the way! Oh, and while you’re in the mood for further listening, check out Sirat’s Soundcloud, where you will find more mixes, as well as his productions as part Clima project.

James Heather is a pianist, composer, and publicist for Ninja Tune that has appeared on these pages on numerous occasions – most recently with a track premiere for his upcoming release Modulations: EP2. James and I have a mutual passion for sharing the music that we discover. A few years ago, he made an ambient focused Headphone Commute Mix for this very same podcast. Today I’m syndicating his selection originally appearing on his very own Moving Sounds program that he runs on London’s Soho Radio. This monthly show “was born out of the long-running playlist of the same name created by James that explores spaces between classical, electronic, ambient, soul, jazz, drone, film soundtrack, folk, field recordings & other transporting sounds from the past but mostly from now.” This particular mix is featuring many of my favourite composers whom I am honoured to call friends, and I was even happy to contribute a track of my own. In the case of mixes, I always follow the “less words – more music” formula, so here you go, folks! Enjoy!

I always welcome new music, new connections, new friendships that then come along. In this example, a track premiere by Joachim Spieth at the end of last year made me relisten to his works on Wolfgang Voigt’s  Pop Ambient series, taking me to releases on his very own Affin imprint and finally asking him for a mix. In this process, this seemingly random stranger quickly became a musical friend, as we exchanged grand ideas and connected with music. I really appreciated the spectrum of electronic music genres covered on Spieth’s German label and requested that he showcased the output through a traversal of styles. The result is a beautiful 90-minute journey that will take you from soothing to upbeat, through highs and through lows. I’m very happy with how it turned out and honoured to host this showcase on Headphone Commute.

In November of 2020, Amsterdam-based label Ambientologist released a compilation titled Sustain Series, Vol. 1. It’s an impressive gathering of ambient artists and their music, showcasing some of the most delicate sides of the genre. The proceeds from the release have been donated to Conservation International, promoting sustainability across the world. I reached out to the label in hopes to broadcast this selection to a wider audience on my platform, and I am happy that they obliged to share this 90-minute continuous mix by Lauge with followers of my podcast. Take a look at the tracklisting and you will know why I’m excited to spend today in the company of my favourite ambient artists, as well as a few newly introduced names to my ears. As of this writing, the label is preparing a follow-up volume, with artists such as Halftribe, The Green Kingdom, Pepo Galán, awakened souls, Dylan Henner and Sven Laux, confirmed for the roster. I’m keeping my eye on the Ambientologist’s Bandcamp for the available pre-order, and so should you!

In anticipation of Matt Emery‘s upcoming six-track EP on Injazero Records, titled Spotlight Series : Cello, I have asked him to put together a thematic mix prominently featuring the instrument. As many of you may already know – I’m a big fan of this low-end stringed beast [side note: In high school, I’ve played the double bass in the orchestra, but I wasn’t very good and was jealous of the cello]. I have especially enjoyed the darker, moodier, and sullen pieces by the likes of Julia Kent, Resina, Anne Müller, Peter Gregson, Sebastian Plano, Clarice Jensen, and of course, Hildur Guðnadóttir, all of whom I have reviewed and interviewed on Headphone Commute before [I have linked up each name for HC content for you above], and who, once again, appear on this gorgeous mix selected by Matt Emery. His very own two pieces, one from the upcoming EP, and the other from his previously released album Empire, also appear on this podcast, which I hope you will thoroughly enjoy!

In December of 2020, one of my favourite imprints released a gorgeous label compilation! Ryan Griffin has been lovingly curating every single release on A Strangely Isolated Place since 2012. He’s also compiled sublime Reflection mixes, which I have happily syndicated on Headphone Commute. Following the first label showcase launched in 2019, Ryan puts together ten tracks, including a few previously unavailable as individual pieces, that make up this 2020 Label Compilation. As a bonus, this release includes an hour-long continuous mix (available as part of a digital-only purchase), which I have arranged with Ryan to share with you today. “I hope the (continuous) year-end mix will become a regular occurrence going forward,” says Griffin about the release. “Many of you will know a big part of my inspiration and passion lies in DJ’ing and classic mix CDs. If the label momentum continues and releases keep coming as planned, then each year I’d like to invite a DJ to select and mix tracks from the label – make an annual tradition out of it.” This compilation is still available for purchase on a CD for only $10, while the digital-only album is up for grabs for only $1! Please see this label Bandcamp page.

What’s this? Somehow, last year, both Mathias Van Eecloo and I completely forgot our annual tradition to publish another eisOtones instalment, in which this prolific French musician and label(s) owner collects 50 tracks from 50 releases of the prior year. How did that happen? I suppose, Mathias was extremely busy wrapping up his monumental Eilean Rec. project, in which he released 100 records based on an imaginary map of 100 points. The final catalogue entry in this imprint [as you can imagine] was number 100 and collected unreleased pieces in an 82-track compilation. Van Eecloo wasted no time there and immediately set off on another venture, titled LAAPS, releasing vinyl records in a permanent continuity of sounds and visual bridges between each one. Another puzzle for you to complete! So I suppose it was a very busy time of endings and new beginnings… but this year we’re back! So, without more words and reflected distractions, here’s a 72-minute journey, which I’m sure you’ll enjoy!

More than a couple of weeks late, but here we are, with the long-awaited vinyl mix, still marking down, bookmarking, and closing off a year we won't surely miss... but at least there was a lot of awesome music, and as such, thanks to Mike Jedlicka once again, we are celebrating the best it had to give. A fascinating playlist here, with more than a few new artists even to my ears. So yes, I am enjoying it as well! And if you like this beautiful selection, be sure to check out our past archive of Optic Echo Presents mixes, as well as the ongoing Best of 2020 lists, which I intend to finish up this week. Also, I want to quickly point out that this is Mike's 10th vinyl mix for Headphone Commute which we publish at the end of each year - so yeah, we've been at it for a decade now, kids!

Well, it’s almost the end of this dreadful year, and I’ve got one more mix for you before I sign off… This one is episode number 290. Can you believe it? By the way, I was recently forced (by my host) to take all of my past mixes offline. As a result, I’ve migrated the last year of mixes to Podbean. So if you are experiencing any technical difficulties with downloading, streaming, or anything else, please reach out, and we’ll sort it! Meanwhile, this beautiful selection from noition, who last contributed his child of nature mix back in 2017, should get you smooth sailing into the new year. Just look at that amazing tracklist! It’s been on rotation in Headphone Commute studios for a week now (vinyl crackle and all), so as you play it, you can imagine that we’re sharing this experience together, a better thought than listening alone. Anyway, I wish you all serenity, poised mental strength, and healthy choice in lifestyle! I’ll see you [virtually] next year when I return with my Best of 2020 selections!

In case you haven’t heard already, I’ve taken over the Contemplative Classical community, which curated an outstanding Spotify Playlist, hosted a podcast with Matt Emery, and offered the platform for artists to feature a mix. I intend on keeping all of the above going [more on this one a bit later!], with a bit of cross-pollination with Headphone Commute. Most of you already know that I enjoy solo piano and contemporary classical music, and I’m sure many followers of Contemplative Classical will appreciate my musings on here about ambient and cinematic music. I kind of hate to use the word “synergy” but if there was ever one of an appropriate union, it would be HC + CC.  Today I wanted to introduce you to the outstanding selection of mixes previously appearing on Contemplative Classical, with the syndication of this gorgeous selection of tracks by a Peruvian pianist and a composer, Sergio Díaz De Rojas. He is also responsible for a site and a label called Piano and Coffee, so you’re in good company here! If you enjoy this, you may want to also follow my SoundCloud account, where I’m currently republishing Contemplative Classical Mixes every Saturday morning.

Shimmering Moods is an independent boutique ambient label based in Amsterdam. In the last couple of years, it has released albums by Halftribe, Andrew Tasselmyer, Anthéne, øjeRum, Purl, and Olan Mill, among the many recognized names in its quickly growing roster of artists. It’s easy to get lost in its catalog among the hazy, shuffling, dubbed-out sounds, glinting and shimmering, reflecting the light off the still misty waters. This is a very tranquil and radiant place, slightly subdued in its faint hazy colors. “The music offers the listener a soundtrack for daydreaming, walks around the city or in nature, a creative activity, meditation, or invites them to a fully concentrated listen.” Today I am happy to share these sounds with you in this special label showcase compiled exclusively for Headphone Commute. And if you like what you hear, be sure to visit the label’s Bandcamp shop, where every limited release is lovingly packaged, hand-made, and bespoke, awaiting to meet at your doorsteps and share its wonders. For a more detailed description, full tracklisting, and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

Shimmering Moods is an independent boutique ambient label based in Amsterdam. In the last couple of years, it has released albums by Halftribe, Andrew Tasselmyer, Anthéne, øjeRum, Purl, and Olan Mill, among the many recognized names in its quickly growing roster of artists. It’s easy to get lost in its catalog among the hazy, shuffling, dubbed-out sounds, glinting and shimmering, reflecting the light off the still misty waters. This is a very tranquil and radiant place, slightly subdued in its faint hazy colors. “The music offers the listener a soundtrack for daydreaming, walks around the city or in nature, a creative activity, meditation, or invites them to a fully concentrated listen.” Today I am happy to share these sounds with you in this special label showcase compiled exclusively for Headphone Commute. And if you like what you hear, be sure to visit the label’s Bandcamp shop, where every limited release is lovingly packaged, hand-made, and bespoke, awaiting to meet at your doorsteps and share its wonders. For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

On today’s Headphone Commute podcast, we’re syndicating an episode of James Murray‘s Slowcraft Radio (episode 4, to be exact), on which this London-based composer and Slowcraft Records label boss showcases some of his favorite pieces. These, of course, include selections released on his own imprint, as well as remixes and collaborations [including one with yours truly] on the extended family of labels, such as Subcontinental, Ultimae, and Home Normal. Among the choices, you’d be happy to hear an Alva Noto cover of The Cure‘s “A Forest”, an excerpt from a beautiful long-form track by An Moku & Stijn Hüwels titled Where We Meet (I’ve got some proper coverage on this release coming up!), and a top pick from our very own album, coming out in just a week, titled Suññatā, on November 17th. This particular episode appeared on October 17th at CAMP, a broadcasting platform for artists offering a “diverse array of audible pleasures,” but for my own taste, I’m not gonna lie, there’s only room for Slowcraft… For a more detailed description, full tracklisting, and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

On today’s Headphone Commute podcast, we’re syndicating an episode of James Murray‘s Slowcraft Radio (episode 4, to be exact), on which this London-based composer and Slowcraft Records label boss showcases some of his favorite pieces. These, of course, include selections released on his own imprint, as well as remixes and collaborations [including one with yours truly] on the extended family of labels, such as Subcontinental, Ultimae, and Home Normal. Among the choices, you’d be happy to hear an Alva Noto cover of The Cure‘s “A Forest”, an excerpt from a beautiful long-form track by An Moku & Stijn Hüwels titled Where We Meet (I’ve got some proper coverage on this release coming up!), and a top pick from our very own album, coming out in just a week, titled Suññatā, on November 17th. This particular episode appeared on October 17th at CAMP, a broadcasting platform for artists offering a “diverse array of audible pleasures,” but for my own taste, I’m not gonna lie, there’s only room for Slowcraft… For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

Kit Grill is a London-based producer and a host at NTS Radio, dabbling in various genres, ranging from Krautrock to New Wave to Post-Punk and Ambient. On November 6th, Grill is releasing his new album, titled Ride, on his own Primary Colours imprint, exploring new timbres, textures, and field recordings using the Fairlight CMI digital synthesizer from the early 80s. To celebrate the release, Kit has put together a Headphone Commute Mix featuring an eclectic selection of his favorite tunes, including a few from the album. It’s a unique excursion into the sound from around the world, with appearances of some early electronic music from the likes of Steve Reich, Cocteau Twins & Harold Budd among the contemporaries, such as Mica Levi, GAS, and Windy & Carl. Grill’s new album will be streaming on November 12th from Ten Studios in East London, meanwhile, sit back, and enjoy the show… For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

Kit Grill is a London-based producer and a host at NTS Radio, dabbling in various genres, ranging from Krautrock to New Wave to Post-Punk and Ambient. On November 6th, Grill is releasing his new album, titled Ride, on his own Primary Colours imprint, exploring new timbres, textures, and field recordings using the Fairlight CMI digital synthesizer from the early 80s. To celebrate the release, Kit has put together a Headphone Commute Mix featuring an eclectic selection of his favorite tunes, including a few from the album. It’s a unique excursion into the sound from around the world, with appearances of some early electronic music from the likes of Steve Reich, Cocteau Twins & Harold Budd among the contemporaries, such as Mica Levi, GAS, and Windy & Carl. Grill’s new album will be streaming on November 12th from Ten Studios in East London, meanwhile, sit back, and enjoy the show… For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

For this 285th Headphone Commute Mix, James Norman puts together a selection of tracks as a companion listening session to his recently published book, titled “Micro Record Label: A love letter for music fans; a how-to for the hopeless; a light-hearted, humorous, self-deprecating detour for the uninterested.” The paperback is both a fun read and an important and earnest bit of advice for anyone who even conceives of venturing into a running a small, or rather, a micro record label. Covering everything from design to packaging to promoting and finally selling your goods, this 144-page diary captures the current state of affairs in the music scene outside of the music business. Along the way, Norman mentions many of his favorite releases across various imprints that just seem to do it right. This mix features many of such pieces quoted in the book and serves as a perfect musical journey and as a soundtrack to his recorded words. There are only 200 of these printed, so I recommend that you grab your copy (I see some still available on Rough Trade). Meanwhile, if you want to read an excerpt, you can read this chapter on “Identity” on Headphone Commute. For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

For this 285th Headphone Commute Mix, James Norman puts together a selection of tracks as a companion listening session to his recently published book, titled “Micro Record Label: A love letter for music fans; a how-to for the hopeless; a light-hearted, humorous, self-deprecating detour for the uninterested.” The paperback is both a fun read and an important and earnest bit of advice for anyone who even conceives of venturing into a running a small, or rather, a micro record label. Covering everything from design to packaging to promoting and finally selling your goods, this 144-page diary captures the current state of affairs in the music scene outside of the music business. Along the way, Norman mentions many of his favorite releases across various imprints that just seem to do it right. This mix features many of such pieces quoted in the book and serves as a perfect musical journey and as a soundtrack to his recorded words. There are only 200 of these printed, so I recommend that you grab your copy (I see some still available on Rough Trade). Meanwhile, if you want to read an excerpt, you can read this chapter on “Identity” on Headphone Commute. For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

Bigo & Twigetti is a London based label which, in recent years, has brought us an eclectic selection of artists ranging from ambient to electronic to contemporary classical genres and everything in between. Most recently, I’ve been inspired by Ben Crosland and his album The Turn as well as captivated by the always excellent Leah Kardos [who still owes me an introduction to her best friend, Dudley]. Leah has previously made us a Headphone Commute Mix, but for this installment, I’ve asked her to compile a sampler of the label’s offerings to showcase the catalog and hopefully discover some new acts. It’s an eclectic selection of tunes, perfect for your WFH commute. For a more detailed description, full tracklisting, and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

Bigo & Twigetti is a London based label which, in recent years, has brought us an eclectic selection of artists ranging from ambient to electronic to contemporary classical genres and everything in between. Most recently, I’ve been inspired by Ben Crosland and his album The Turn as well as captivated by the always excellent Leah Kardos [who still owes me an introduction to her best friend, Dudley]. Leah has previously made us a Headphone Commute Mix, but for this installment, I’ve asked her to compile a sampler of the label’s offerings to showcase the catalog and hopefully discover some new acts. It’s an eclectic selection of tunes, perfect for your WFH commute. For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

Peter van Cooten of Ambientblog is no stranger to Headphone Commute. We have been musing on our discoveries for almost a decade now, exchanging mixes and words in a tightly knit musical network. His first mix for Headphone Commute podcast appeared back in 2011, titled Dawn Secrets and it features many of my favorite artists to this day. I think it's only fair to say that Dave Michuda of Low Light Mixes is also part of the said "network", with his first mix for Headphone Commute appearing in August of 2010 (also a decade ago), titled The Landscape Listens. For this special syndicated podcast, Dave and Peter create a cooperative voyage, each taking their turns to conduct and maneuver this ship in complex sonic waters to deliver you safely ashore, while in the process forever tattooing their message on your map of existence. Enjoy! For a more detailed description, full tracklisting, and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

Peter van Cooten of Ambientblog is no stranger to Headphone Commute. We have been musing on our discoveries for almost a decade now, exchanging mixes and words in a tightly knit musical network. His first mix for Headphone Commute podcast appeared back in 2011, titled Dawn Secrets and it features many of my favourite artists to this day. I think it's only fair to say that Dave Michuda of Low Light Mixes is also part of the said "network", with his first mixed for Headphone Commute appearing in August of 2010 (also a decade ago), titled The Landscape Listens. For this special syndicated podcast, Dave and Peter create a cooperative voyage, each taking their turns to conduct and manoeuvre this ship in complex sonic waters to deliver you safely ashore, while in the process forever tattooing their message on your map of existence. Enjoy! For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

On today’s episode of Headphone Commute, we’re featuring an eclectic selection of tunes curated by a German composer, J. Wolfgang Röttger, who records under his moniker Morgen Wurde. About three years ago, I was completely mesmerized by his "Assassinous Act" for Time Released Sound which is still appearing on my occasional rotations. He has also contributed to the long-running Pop Ambient compilation series, curated by the one and only Wolfgang Voigt. There are a lot of familiar tracks and some new discoveries on this mix, which give you a glimpse into this artist’s influences that inevitably shape his sound. For a more detailed description, full tracklisting, and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

On today’s episode of Headphone Commute, we’re featuring an eclectic selection of tunes curated by a German composer, J. Wolfgang Röttger, who records under his moniker Morgen Wurde. About three years ago, I was completely mesmerized by his "Assassinous Act" for Time Released Sound which is still appearing on my occasional rotations. He has also contributed to the long-running Pop Ambient compilation series, curated by the one and only Wolfgang Voigt. There are a lot of familiar tracks and some new discoveries on this mix, which give you a glimpse into this artist’s influences that inevitably shape his sound. For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

In order to understand the present, sometimes one must look into the past. It is, after all, the memories that make up the “you” of who you are. If you are to erase them, and your past, would you be an entirely new person? Perhaps you’ll make the same mistakes again. And buy all that expensive vinyl. In the case of Orangewarrior, the past includes a collection of electronic and ambient music of the mid-90s. And that precisely coincides with my very own “becoming” of the time, which is why I’m very much excited about this special mix. This is a fun journey down memory lane which I hope you will enjoy with us. For a more detailed description, full tracklisting and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

In order to understand the present, sometimes one must look into the past. It is, after all, the memories that make up the “you” of who you are. If you are to erase them, and your past, would you be an entirely new person? Perhaps you’ll make the same mistakes again. And buy all that expensive vinyl. In the case of Orangewarrior, the past includes a collection of electronic and ambient music of the mid-90s. And that precisely coincides with my very own “becoming” of the time, which is why I’m very much excited about this special mix. This is a fun journey down the memory lane which I hope you will enjoy with us. For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

Gavin Miller is back, this time with his worriedaboutsatan project, showcasing some of his favourite pieces, including a few of his own, like the opener taken from his latest release for n5MD. We live in a strange and unstable world, but the only constant that remains is all of this music. So when I find myself overwhelmed with the latest events, I turn to meditation through sound, with a journey curated by someone else. Through this mix, I feel like we are listening together, and as such, connected again. 'I made this mix with not much in mind, to be honest,' says Miller of his selection, 'I’ve been listening to all sorts of music lately, and I just wanted it to be a fair reflection of that more than anything.' For a more detailed description, full tracklisting, and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

Gavin Miller is back, this time with his worriedaboutsatan project, showcasing some of his favourite pieces, including a few of his own, like the opener taken from his latest release for n5MD. We live in a strange and unstable world, but the only constant that remains is all of this music. So when I find myself overwhelmed with the latest events, I turn to meditation through sound, with a journey curated by someone else. Through this mix, I feel like we are listening together, and as such, connected again. 'I made this mix with not much in mind, to be honest,' says Miller of his selection, 'I’ve been listening to all sorts of music lately, and I just wanted it to be a fair reflection of that more than anything.' For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

Time goes by. Time stands still. Time loops upon itself. And if it wasn’t for the sound, changing as it flows through time, and for the clouds, nudging time as they pass through, we wouldn’t even notice all the changes. Was it really you, a month ago, a year and a decade, and was it really me? Or is it still somewhere out there, in other space, in other time? And as we measure time in colors of the seasons, in the music of the spheres, and in the ever-present change, it’s through transitions of ourselves, in time, that we experience this ‘living’. Today’s mix is inspired by such passages through time. And as time appears to stand still, we may be experiencing an enormous transition for the entire humankind. It’s better with this music. For a more detailed description, full tracklisting, and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

Time goes by. Time stands still. Time loops upon itself. And if it wasn’t for the sound, changing as it flows through time, and for the clouds, nudging time as they pass through, we wouldn’t even notice all the changes. Was it really you, a month ago, a year and a decade, and was it really me? Or is it still somewhere out there, in other space, in other time? And as we measure time in colours of the seasons, in music of the spheres, and in the ever-present change, it’s through transitions of ourselves, in time, that we experience this ‘living’. Today’s mix is inspired by such passages through time. And as time appears to stand still, we may be experiencing an enormous transition for the entire humankind. It’s better with this music. For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

Today we have a 3.5 hour showcase by Roel Funcken, who has put together a Sampler Mix from a double-volume Australia Bushfire Compilation, which he has curated for Touched Music. This is a benefit release approaching 70+ tracks selected from the musicians around the world to raise funds 'for the rescue, preservation and safe sanctuary of koalas and other vulnerable wildlife affected by the unprecedented catastrophic fires of the Australian Black Summer (September 2019 – February 2020) resulting in a massive loss of habitable forests.' Yes, during the current global [human] crisis it’s easy to forget about the disaster that has recently occurred on a remote continent, but it’s important to remember and support this endangered species in the time of need. I hope you enjoy and support this endeavor by purchasing the compilation, as 100% of the profits will be donated to Australians for Animals for Koala Habitat. For a more detailed description, full tracklisting, and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

Today we have a 3.5 hour showcase by Roel Funcken, who has put together a Sampler Mix from a double-volume Australia Bushfire Compilation, which he has curated for Touched Music. This is a benefit release approaching 70+ tracks selected from the musicians around the world to raise funds 'for the rescue, preservation and safe sanctuary of koalas and other vulnerable wildlife affected by the unprecedented catastrophic fires of the Australian Black Summer (September 2019 – February 2020) resulting in a massive loss of habitable forests.' Yes, during the current global [human] crisis it’s easy to forget about the disaster that has recently occurred on a remote continent, but it’s important to remember and support this endangered species in the time of need. I hope you enjoy and support this endeavour by purchasing the compilation, as 100% of profits will be donated to Australians for Animals for Koala Habitat. For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

On today’s podcast, we are featuring an exclusive mix by Arandel who has recently released a new album on the French Infiné imprint, titled 'InBach'. As you may have already guessed, Arandel’s work interprets the German composer’s sacred music into an updated formation of modern classical and contemporary electronic sound. In March of 2018, Arandel participated in the Bach Marathon at the Cite de la Musique Hall, Paris with his hybrid live performance and DJ set 'Switched on Bach', named in acknowledgment to the legendary 1968 Grammy Award-winning album by the American composer Wendy Carlos. 'Switched-on InBach' re-engineers the original mix played by Arandel with the perfected and mastered versions from his album 'InBach' alongside some amazing artists, such as Francesco Tristano, Murcof, and Sutekh. For a more detailed description, full tracklisting, and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

On today’s podcast, we are featuring an exclusive mix by Arandel who has recently released a new album on the French Infiné imprint, titled 'InBach'. As you may have already guessed, Arandel’s work interprets the German composer’s sacred music into an updated formation of modern classical and contemporary electronic sound. In March of 2018, Arandel participated in the Bach Marathon at the Cite de la Musique Hall, Paris with his hybrid live performance and DJ set 'Switched on Bach', named in acknowledgement to the legendary 1968 Grammy Award-winning album by the American composer Wendy Carlos. 'Switched-on InBach' re-engineers the original mix played by Arandel with the perfected and mastered versions from his album 'InBach' alongside some amazing artists, such as Francesco Tristano, Murcof, and Sutekh. For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

This mix was originally broadcast on Headphone Commute in December of 2012. It was created to promote the benefit compilation, under the same name, … and darkness came, and in the process showcase the diverse sonic landscape of music featuring just a handful of tracks from the release. Well, it’s been over eight years since those events, but the music is as pungent as ever, especially during these devastating times, when you can find comfort in its sound. In the last couple of weeks, I found myself revisiting these compositions, and after some thought, I decided to reshare this somber mix. I hope that you’ll connect with it again and, in the process, spread the love to those in times of need. And as always, please enjoy responsibly and support the featured artists! For a more detailed description, full tracklisting, and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

This mix was originally broadcast on Headphone Commute in December of 2012. It was created to promote the benefit compilation, under the same name, … and darkness came, and in the process showcase the diverse sonic landscape of music featuring just a handful of tracks from the release. Well, it’s been over eight years since those events, but the music is as pungent as ever, especially during these devastating times, when you can find the comfort in its sound. In the last couple of weeks, I found myself revisiting these compositions, and after some thought, I decided to reshare this somber mix. I hope that you’ll connect with it again and, in the process, spread the love to those in times of need. And as always, please enjoy responsibly and support the featured artists! For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

For today’s podcast, we are featuring an outstanding label showcase for LINE, mixed by the one and only Richard Chartier. For this mix, which is also available at Name Your Price on Line’s Bandcamp [I highly recommend you grab the lossless version there!], Chartier showcases works from the most recent and back catalog of his monumental label, in the process creating more than just a label sampler, but a journey of its own. If this is your first foray into minimalism, sound art, and microsound spearheaded by LINE, then strap yourself in as you discover the many intimate layers in this most intricate of genres. The loyal followers of this monumental imprint will be happy to discover a few recent inclusions, such as a piece by Six Microphones, or the most recent release from Joaquín Gutiérrez Hadid, as well as some flashbacks to the earlier pieces by Asmus Tietchens, William Basinski + Richard Chartier, and of course, an appearance by Pinkcourtesyphone. A wonderful exhibition, which, once again, I urge you to support by purchasing this mix, or the albums appearing on it, directly from the label. For a more detailed description, full tracklisting, and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com

For today’s podcast, we are featuring an outstanding label showcase for LINE, mixed by the one and only Richard Chartier. For this mix, which is also available at Name Your Price on Line’s Bandcamp [I highly recommend you grab the lossless version there!], Chartier showcases works from the most recent and back catalog of his monumental label, in the process creating more than just a label sampler, but a journey of its own. If this is your first foray into minimalism, sound art, and microsound spearheaded by LINE, then strap yourself in as you discover the many intimate layers in this most intricate of genres. The loyal followers of this monumental imprint will be happy to discover a few recent inclusions, such as a piece by Six Microphones, or the most recent release from Joaquín Gutiérrez Hadid, as well as some flashbacks to the earlier pieces by Asmus Tietchens, William Basinski + Richard Chartier, and of course, an appearance by Pinkcourtesyphone. A wonderful exhibition, which, once again, I urge you to support by purchasing this mix, or the albums appearing on it, directly from the label. For a more detailed description, full track listing and more information about this mix, please visit headphonecommute.com