Last we connected with Dutch trio Kraak & Smaak they had just returned home to the Netherlands after performing a series of live shows at the annual music South by Southwest schmoozathon in Austin, Texas. The guys filed an insightful SXSW tour diary proving that they had all sorts of fun, including assorted barbecue hijinks and drinking with Lone Star locals.
This week the triumvirate announced the launch of their new imprint, Boogie Angst, which will serve as an outlet for future K&S music as well as tunes by other artists.
Boogie Angst’s debut release is their three-track Octaves EP. Lead track “Notes” feat. Sam Duckworth (formerly Get Cape Wear Cape Fly, who appeared on the threesome’s “Good For The City” heard on Chrome Waves) will be issued as a limited-edition, hand-stamped 180gm vinyl-only release with individually screen printed sleeves by Dutch artist Thomas Raat. Fellow Dutch producer Moods has also joined the label’s roster and will drop three EPs before releasing his debut album in 2015.
Music, music, music is always on their minds, so we checked in and asked Kraak & Smaak to share their five favorite artists of the moment.
Kraak & Smaak’s Chrome Waves Remixed is out now via Jalapeño Records.
1. Peoples Potential Unlimited
Not an artist but a label page from Washington, D.C., specializing in weird and cool, old and new ’80s kinda funk, disco and electronica. Obscure and addictive.
2. Max Graef
Berlin producer and DJ who released his debut album a couple of months ago and one of the tastemakers in getting that organic funk and jazz sound back in dance music, just like the German national team did with football Knipogende emoticon. He also regularly collaborates with Australian producer Andy Hart.
3. Moods
Highly talented electronic music producer from Rotterdam. You’re definitely going to hear much more about him in the future.
4. Ali Love
Great new solo album P.U.M.P. from this member of the Hot Natured collective. Goes on where Hercules & Love Affair and Azari & III left off, with nods to early ’80s UK dub disco Jah Wobble-style as well. Out now on Crosstown Rebels.
5. Leon Vynehall
Up-and-coming UK deep house and electronic music producer with a string of excellent releases on fellow Dutchman Martyn’s 3024 label and just now on the Dutch Clone label.