Ever written a blog and then left it so long that you managed to delete on a computer clear out? Yeah nice one m8. So just like the classic Tenacious D song - Tribute I’ll see if I can re-create the magic that once was. Who knows this maybe better…
This week I wanted to talk a little bit about SoundCloud and my ever-growing love for it. The analogy that I like to use is that in years past, back when vinyl was the norm, DJ’s and producers would constantly be visiting stores and sales, searching for hours through the discount bins to find that next big sample or track that time had forgotten or wasn’t ready for. Well in true 21st century style we have the online version and its name is SoundCloud.
SoundCloud is one of these beautiful innovations that allows mass uploading from all around the world and gives DJs or producers instant access to a global market. When you really think about this, it’s pretty incredible. However, with so many having access there is A LOT OF SHIT. I don’t want to be disrespectful, but a lot of up in coming DJ’s and producers need time to develop their sound (and sometimes skills) which can lead to some difficult listening, however that is all wiped away when you find that one track. That diamond in the rough, that wicked tune from that tiny producer that makes it almost an exclusive vinyl only release and quite often, it will be FREE!
So because I’m a nice guy, I’m going to give you my top 5 free SoundCloud tracks that either Oli or I have found over the past few years. Heads up on this one, quite often SC tracks have bad mixing and mastering which you can either learn to deal with, or get in touch with the artist and try to get the stems so you can master it yourself.
Movin' On - Seamus
2 years on from release and I still can’t get away from this song. Seamus, a Scottish producer has a whole heap of free releases on his soundcloud and trust me, it is completely worth your time checking them out. Movin’ On in his own words is a ‘Two Foot Crunch Edit’ and boy oh boy is he right. The first thing you hear and feel is that thumping, massive kick, a common theme throughout his production. But what really takes it home for me is the equally massive but yet funky bassline, which is later accompanied by some amazing vocal and string samples. I was lucky enough to play this one out at a day party in Amsterdam and trust me, this is built for a big sound system.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seamusabdn/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seamusabdn
Mixer - Amber Mark [Donny Rotten Cut]
This is a BANGER. Incredible vocal hook, rolling drums and a bassline that sound probably have a parental guidance label…because it gets you FREAKY. While this is a short but sweet song at only 3minutes 40 seconds (shock for house I know), it packs a punch in a short time. The only downside to this track is the audio quality, sadly not making it a song for a large sound system. If you did want some tracks for a large sound system check this blog out. Another mention is the producer Donny Rotten, a seriously talented up in coming producer from South London. He has tons (and I mean tons) of awesome releases both on Spotify and free downloads on SoundCloud.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donnnyrotten/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/don_ny_rotten/
Iced T – Jake Walker
As I’m writing this blog, I can almost feel Oli sat looking over my shoulder just waiting for this one to come. Iced T by Jake Walker is the definition of my music taste. Strong horns that act as continuous lead, foreign catchy vocal hooks and an upbeat exciting drum and bassline. Boy oh boy I love this track. I remember Oli finding this one, walking into our flat and just going “I found your new favourite song”. He wasn’t wrong. That was a year and half ago and I still love it. Make sure you grab yourself this one – Jake Walker is another very talented producer who has a pretty wicked catalogue of songs.
I couldn’t find his socials so fuck it; here is his email: music.jakewalker@gmail.com - Just in case you wanted to congratulate him on doing a good job.
Touching Vacancies – Parallel
This next track called Touching Vacancies by Parallel is a thing of beauty. Deeply melodic with flowing synths and a swarming undercurrent of bass, it takes you to a place far, far away from shity cold England (even if only for 6 minutes). My absolute favourite part of the track is the break down with what sounds like a sitar building up to the final part of the song. While I do love all of the producers above, Parallel is the perfect example of what SoundCloud can offer, amazing, club ready tines but for FREE. This was the hardest decision I had to make all blog on which of his songs to choose because he gives so many away! He is either a really, really nice guy or he has something big planned…I hope it’s both.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parallel_dj/?hl=en
Rock With U – Oliver Verhaeghe
Houz is the best. 3 out of the 5 tracks in this blog have been released by them. One of the best things about SoundCloud is the numerous promotional channels dedicated to new music, a kind of soundcloud label type deal. But these channels are gold dust, when you find one, don’t let it go.
Rock with U is a euphoric, epic disco house track. While this may not be one of the best produced, skilled or original song, I hold it close to my heart as one of my favourite soundcloud tracks because of the feeling it creates in my soul. This was my motivation song during 3rd year Uni and just gets me pumped. Maybe it will for you too? Who knows.
Honourable mentions
Alex Matryn – Disco Thing
Shaw – Kiki
DJ Streaks – Nasty In My Taxi (Streaky’s Anthem)
Parallel – Risky Susan
Seamus - Unstoppable
You can follow the full playlist here:
Written by Chris Ash
Instagram: @christianash1
Twitter: @christianash1
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