Tarantic Records

Stranger Danger “Play Deep/Next Knock”

Did you miss us?  The Tarantic label has been laying low for a while, as main-man Amit Shoham has been busy developing some new audio DSP algorithms, refining his jazz piano chops, being a dad, and generally taking care of business.  But that’s not what this entry is all about…

That’s right, Tarantic is back with a new release courtesy of bay area up-and-coming producer extraordinaire Stranger Danger.  Since 1992 Dominic, a.k.a Stranger Danger has been involved in the underground music scene as a dancer, promoter, DJ, and more recently as a producer.  Dominic has been making some noise lately—some very good noise, in fact, which has earned him releases on Blockhead, Cabbie Hat, Coyote Cuts, Primal Records, Frequency Spectrum, Bump Shop, Pin Up Recordings, and Bueno Booty.  The quality deep and funky sounds coming from this fast-rising talent now also grace Tarantic Records’ catalog, and we’re thrilled to offer the “Play Deep/Next Knock” EP with remixes by BradElectro and label-head Amit Shoham.

First up is “Play Deep,” a bouncy groove layered with catchy vocal stabs and effects.  Dominic recruited Yerba Buena Disco’s Homero Espinosa to mix down the track, and the result is an impeccably-produced funky tune.   Next up is “Next Knock,” which keeps the funk going strong with a jazzy horn riff and a light-hearted spoken vocal.  Amit Shoham reworks “Next Knock” using his trademark lively percussion grooves to build the energy, and BradElectro gives “Next Knock” a synth-driven makeover using electronic stabs and riffs as the primary elements.  Fans of the Tarantic sound are certainly already familiar with Amit and Brad’s work, and are sure to appreciate Stranger Danger’s grooves!

Here’s what a few DJs are saying about this release:

Tyree Cooper: “This is a real nice 12” i will bang it thoroughly!!!!”

DJ Mes: “This is dope! My favorite thing from , Dom yet. Ill be rocking this for sure”

Tommy Largo: “Nice stuff. Play deep and the Amit Shoham remix are my picks.”

Andy Riley (Inland Knights): “Likin’ play deep and next knock…good stuff”

Hector Moralez: “Nice release fellas.. full support !!”

Rick Preston: “Another stellar Tarantic release!!!”

SimonG (Deep South Audio): “Dopeness … Stranger Danger defintly has my vote as one of the rising starts of the back end of 2011.. with a few exclusives in my digi bag already i know he has some bombs on the way! Always dig Amit outlook on house . twisted and jacking .. this is one for the DJ sets”

Al Bradley/Audiotonic/Chemical: “Both originals are sweet, ‘Play Deep’ perhaps the stronger for me, solid deep/tech vibes. On the remix front, Amit’s remix is cool, smart percussion all the way & a lovely rolling vibe. The pick here though is Brad’s squelchy bass-driven groove, wicked stuff!”

Dj Nova: “Tarantic is one of my fave dance labels on the planet and year with it on board was really hard. Fortunately 2012 is starting with a new label release, one Stranger Danger EP that is really outstanding.”

Chris Udoh: “TUNE !!!”

Brewster Brigham: “Great EP proper west style-e”

Nick Holder: “Bomb release! Thanks for sending! Will support!”

Corin Arnold (ed2000): “Great set of mixes. Support!”

CheckPoint Charlie: “The rumbling bass that courses through all of these tracks Is just awesome. Warm, but punchy, a little techy, jacking and smart throughout. I’m a big fan of all the tracks on this release. Really, really cool!”

Bettosun Love/Angels EP

Tarantic Records kicks off 2011 with a couple of ethereal electronic gems courtesy of Bettosun.  Hailing from Cagliari, Itali, Bettosun has been DJing professionally for over 16 years and his depth of experience is clearly reflected in these stunning, beautifully-crafted tracks.  “Love” grooves to a slinky acid-tinged bassline backed by lush chords and electronic bleeps on all the right places.  Midway through the track a dissonant, polyrhythmic piano groove takes over, subtly hinting at melodies but maintaining a captivating edge that perfectly complements the relentless bass.  “Angels” maintains the moody vibe and again gives a nod to acid house synth programming with a slinky filtered melody.  Dark chords and effects create a spacious feeling, taking the listener on a ride propelled by Bettosun’s driving beats.

On the remix front, Tarantic’s own BradElectro reworks “Angels” with a tough nu-disco groove built on a foundation of heavy bass and chugging chord stabs, and punctuated with wood blocks and electronic toms.  Also on remix duty, Wind Horse Records main-man Hamza reinterprets “Love” adding lots of lively percussion and a wah-effected guitar for an extra touch of funk to rock the dancefloor.

This EP has been receiving support from tastemakers worldwide.  Check out a few of the reactions:

Laurent Garnier: “Loooove LOVE Looocve Angels Looooove it !!!!”

Miles Maeda: “great remix work ready to make a party happen!” (BradElectro Remix)

Giom: “Crikey, some electric guitar in house music, that’s pretty original to me… The Hamza mix gets my full support, nice one :)”

Robert Owens: “Love it”

Tyler Stadius: “The original mix of Love is stunning! Beautiful! Timeless, lush track. Thank you!”

Russell Deeks: “Angels is PHat!”

Dave Mothersole: “like both ogs - very nice tracks. will play on proton.”

Quentin Harris: “Hamza’s Love Remix is the best thing to start off the new year with.”

Joshua Heath: “diggin the bradelectro mix! angels original is nice as well..”

Murray Richardson: “nice ep from bettosun, always love the tarantic vibe!”

Deepchild: “Enjoy the bleepy dreaminess of Love.”

Noice! Proton Radio Show Features Tarantic Records

Throughout the month of November, the Noice! radio show will be featuring the Tarantic label with guest mixes from Tarantic Records artists Adnan Sharif, BradElectro, Gabriel Black, and Amit Shoham alongside Noice! resident DJs.

Noice! streams live on Proton Radio on Wednesdays at 8am EST / 5am PST.  The show schedule for November is:

Nov. 3: Mathias Schaffhauser// Amit Shoham
Nov 10: Modern Heads // BradElectro
Nov.17: Q-Burns-Abstract-Message // Gabriel Black
Nov.24: Kaiserdisco//Adnan Sharif

All shows will be available to stream on-demand after their original air date, so be sure to check them out even if you can’t listen live… we hope you enjoy the entire series.

Thee-O & Kukuey “Todavia”

Seasoned veteran of the southern California club scene Thee-O teams up with DJ Kukuey, providing a gigantic tech-house tune for Tarantic’s 39th release. “Todavia” deftly combines Thee-O’s top-notch tech-house production with a deep, atmospheric vibe that fans of the Tarantic label are sure to appreciate.  Dubby piano chords and riffs tinkle atop a thick bassline, nicely spiced with echoed percussion and crisply-chopped vocal samples.  The track builds patiently as quirky but melodic elements create a subtly suspenseful mood, while retaining a distinct warmth throughout.  Simply brilliant!

Three sublime remixes grace this package:  First up, Tangible Recordings’ head-honcho Gabriel Black contorts Thee-O & Kukuey’s bassline and percussion into a huge dub-house backdrop. The warmth of the original is nicely enhanced by the dubby treatment while the melodic keys and reverbed vocals add sparkle.  SUMA Records co-owner Alex Roque delivers an energetic big-room interpretation driven by bouncy synth chords.  Dramatic builds and breakdowns, reversed cymbals, and filter sweeps take the dancer on a ride in this sure-fire floor-filler.  Wrapping things up, Tarantic’s own Amit Shoham adds a dose of funk into the mix with an intricate arrangement that takes several twists and turns.  The piano chords bend as chopped and cleverly vocoded vocal samples meld into a catchy groove over the funked-up bassline. This high-spirited groovy outing will have heads nodding and feet shuffling.

Early support from Peter Kruder (Kruder & Dorfmeister), Andy Riley (Inland Knights), Rick Preston, Murray Richardson, Joshua Heath, Funky Transport, and many more…

Amit Shoham “No Color Lines”

Hard-working house producer Amit Shoham is back with another quality EP to add to his impressive discography.  The title track, “No Color Lines” is a deep, deep, deep melodic excursion featuring Amit’s live guitar playing.  Piano stabs and congas create a rich organic sound, and subtle synth programming beautifully complements the moody melodies and melancholy atmosphere of the track.  Amit also provides the “Guitar Voyage” mix, a useful DJ tool derived from the melodic elements of “No Color Lines” with most of the beats removed.  The more energetic “Achie Breakie” is a percussive techie offering propelled by an acidic synth line and bubbly keys.  Despite being built on a broken beat, the track feels more like a house record and will mix perfectly into a tech house set.

First up on remix duty is Lost My Dog label co-owner Pete Dafeet, whose credits include productions and remixes for the likes of Robsoul, Bosh, Detour, and Toolroom.  Pete delivers an edgy, tracky rework of “No Color Lines” that maintains the deep vibe of the original but abandons the guitar melodies in favor of driving, chunky beats.  Also lending a hand are DK Watts and Lance Leber a.k.a Short Bus Kids, whose production work appears on imprints such as Greenhouse, Prismatic, and their own Bounce House label.  The Short Bus Kids provide a lighter take on “No Color Lines,” adding some quirky melodies and a dubby vibe.

DJ support:

Andy Riley (Inland Knights) - No color lines for me!
Shur-i-kan - Nice little chord action going on in No color lines
Murray Richardson - choice mix from pete dafeet…deep house!
Giom - Pete’s version for me. Thanks guys
Elie Eidelman (DJ Humus) - I was really caught by surprise with this release. really beautiful!!! loving the vibe and can’t wait to play it out. I think people will cry! thanx
Doc Link - Nice feel to this! Definitely ready for the beginning of my sets…. Thank You!
Presslaboys - Pete remix is Excellent
Funky Transport - Liking the OG and Pete Da Feet mixes :)
Jon Lemmon - Very good track, I’m giving full support!
Q-Burns Abstract Message - The original is excellent … it’s got its own thing going on, very unique. I’ve included this in August Invisible Airwaves radio show.

“Lapsed” by Melissa Rapp, Daniel Schiffer, and Amit Shoham now on Beatport

Check out Tarantic’s latest release, a collaborative effort by Melissa Rapp, Daniel Schiffer, and Amit Shoham titled “Lapsed.”  Though this release leads with a trio of hefty house music remixes, it’s the original track that may turn the most heads. “Lapsed” is a dreamy downtempo wonder not too far off from the sound of acts like Morcheeba or Air. Featuring Rapp’s bluesy vocals, Schiffer’s accomplished guitar licks, and Shoham’s keys and crisp production “Lapsed” actually came about almost by accident. Rapp was taking a break packing for a move from San Francisco to Los Angeles and decided to give Shoham a goodbye visit. Schiffer, who was helping with the move, tagged along. Conversation and reminiscences turned into an impromptu studio session and the melancholy “Lapsed” was born.

To tie in with Tarantic’s housier offerings, the challenge of creating uptempo dancefloor versions without losing much of the original’s mood was undertaken. Amit Shoham retooled the track himself in the deep and soulful Unrequited Funk mix. Though shifting focus to beats and groove Shoham’s mix still uses Rapp’s entire vocal creating a sublime club track that still holds its own as a ‘song.’ Next up, Andrew Phelan & George Cochrane (AKA Origami), known for their extensive oeuvre of cuts for their Prismatic Tracks label, bust forth with a techy, bass-driven monster of a remix. The vocal is precisely manipulated amidst bouncy rhythms and synth arpeggiations. There’s also a Dub which strips out the vocals for an even techier treatment. Finally BradElectro, coming off his acclaimed Pinstripe Late Nite album for Tarantic, showcases his nu-disco grooves alongside stuttering synth chords and a spacey synth lead.

The release is already gaining support from DJs world wide:

“Great track. like the original and the Amit Shoham mix the most. will play” - Tommy Largo

“I’m really feelin the funk mix and the original mix,this is a have to have in your serato
crate…..Nice Job….” - Tyree Cooper

“Great Package and nice song!” - Atnarko

“The Amit mix is my favourite, but a dub would have been wicked! Thanks guys” - Giom

“Quality release!  I really like the original a lot.  The remixes are solid, all aimed at different times of the night.” - DK Watts

“I dig the production on Amit’s mix. Cool twisted funkiness.. Cool crunchy chug on the brad electro dub.. Nice package over all” - Joshua Heath

“nice! 5/5” - Charles Feelgood

“Diverse set of quality mixes here. It’s the dub from Andre & George I’m feeling the most - nasty track. Good for the clubs.” - Tyler Stadius

“Amits mix is the one im onto here!” - Murray Richardson

“Nice tune. Like Shoham’s Funk Mix.” - Hippie Torrales

Get it now from Beatport

Tons of Tunes

Tastemakers around the world have been taking notice as Tarantic provides one quality release after another.  The response has been phenomenal, with our latest release “Once Wounded EP” by dub-house heavyweights Ivan-I & Jason Howell getting support from the likes of Dubfire, Scope, Cates & DPL, Tommy Largo, Jon Delerious, Murray Richardson, Tyler Stadius, DJ Meri/Rulers of the Deep, Tom Hoch, Al Bradley, C-Soul, Nikola Baytala, Ralf Gum, StereoK, Giom, Sandy Rivera, Atnarko, Swedish Egil, Tedd Patterson, Kelvin K, Presslaboys, and many others.

The “Once Wounded EP” focuses on the techy end of the house music spectrum, with two percussion-driven original tracks, and remixes from Amit Shoham and Luke Mandala (Activated Recordings).

Starting things off, the original mix of “In Memory Of” grooves to a bigger-than-life chugging beat, nicely spiced with echo-laden chords and effects that maintain Ivan and Jason’s inimitable dubby vibe. Amit Shoham remixes the track with a syncopated beat for a tech-funky feel, keeping the excitement high on the dance floor with bold drum fills.

The title track is warmer, fitting easily into a deep or techy set. The track’s crisp percussion and organic tones interweave beautifully into a powerful groove. Luke Mandala takes an ethereal approach with his remix of “Once Wounded,” adding reverb-heavy electronic tones for a more progressive sound.

Check out some of the DJ reactions:

“I really like the original of ‘In Memory Of’..Sick groove and real hypnotic.. I will play this fo sho!” - Scope

“Good stuff” - Hernan Cattaneo

“Nice, driving tracks” - Makossa

“Sick!!” - Jon Cates

“Absolutely Fantastic release!!! Quality and interesting stuff ! Power support from ROTD!” - DJ Meri, Rulers Of The Deep

“Awesome dubby vibes. I really like both originals. Smooth build-ups, Great minimal arrangements, spacious and evocative. Great plays both!” - Tomas Palermo

“What a superb release - not one bad track on it. IN fact, every track is fantastic” - Al Bradley

“Fire - fire burnin’ on the dancefloor!” - Jon Delirious

“Great house sound - luv original mix of this and amits mix too is sharp!” - Murray Richardson

“One of my rare 5 star ratings for Amits mix. The others are dope but man i dig that bouncybounce groove on [Amit’s mix]” - Tom Hoch

“Really dope ep here. nice one boys!!” - Atnarko

“Really hot package. The orginal mix of ‘memory’ is the ticket!” - Tedd Patterson

“Solid release…….feeling In Memory Of and Amit’s rework is wicked.” - Deron Delgado

“These are wicked! Driving, solid & crispy goodness.” - Tyler Stadius

“Both original cuts are fab, layered & bring the thickness!!!! Hot chuggin rollaz!” - PC Synergy

“Nice, deep tune. Like it.” - Sandy Rivera

“Yes, Tarantic is on a roll for me…techy but with a nodd to good old dancers House…will def support this.” - Kelvin K

Check out the “Once Wounded EP” on Beatport.

Also be sure to check out Amit Shoham’s “Oakland Boogie EP,” supported by Dubfire (Deep Dish), Giom, Rob Slac, Jay West, Tommy Largo, Sleazy McQueen, 2lani, Barry Weaver, Robert Owens, Oscar G, Sandy Rivera, Jon Cates, Atnarko, Asad Risvi, Kelvin K, Presslaboys, StereoK, Funky Transport, Tom Blacksoul, and many more.  And Nate Wollman’s “Future’s Comin’ EP”

New Release: “Keep It Hott” The Middle Agent ft. Tech N9ne & Garth Culti-Vader

Keeping the heat on during the cold months of winter, Tarantic Records returns with yet another adventurous release.  “Keep It Hott,” a hip-hop track originally writen by Tech N9ne and Garth Culti-vader, comes to us by way of The Middle Agent.  Humboldt county-based The Middle Agent created a gritty, techy, synth-infused hip-hop mix that immediately caught our attention.

Turning up the house vibes full-blast, Ben Tom craftily edited the vocals, repeating the phrase “everybody in the front get down” to create a powerful dancefloor mantra of sorts.  We’re certain everybody in the club will get down to this!  Funky as ever, BradElectro remixed the track in a classic 80’s hip-hop style, keeping the fun factor maxed out.  Amit Shoham gives the track a deep and lush make-over, effortlessly transitioning from a house beat to a funky triplet groove and back again for a truly unique sound.

“Keep It Hott” will be officially released April 9, 2009.  Pre-release downloads can be purchased now exclusively from Stompy.com

Coming soon: Amit Shoham “Sufi Life”

Tarantic’s warm vibe is in full effect on this single from label boss Amit Shoham.  The original mix of “Sufi Life” is soaked with the soul of a classic house joint and impeccably backed by Amit’s crisp production.  And the way gentle guitar melodies deliciously shimmer over the rich synth programming is icing on the cake.

Complementing Amit Shoham’s original production, three quality remixes grace this release.  Taking a detour from his usual quirky and funky fare, BradElectro turns in a gorgeous and hypnotic remix for your dark and moody progressive sets. Ivan-I & Jason Howell’s dub-driven sound blends earthy beats with spacy effects to get you high.  Warning—do not operate heavy machinery under their influence!  Rounding out the release, JasWho? adds a tough bassline and a positive message to rock the dancefloor.  “If we put our minds together, we might just get it right,” he tells us.

“Sufi Life” goes live on Feb. 12^th, 2009.  Be sure to check it out!

New Release! BradElectro, “Pinstripe Late Nite”

Like a hot-blooded house party fueled by tasteful top-shelf booze, BradElectro’s debut full-length album “Pinstripe Late Nite” is both boisterous bump and refined funk. The material breathes with live rhythm tracks, moving basslines and hooky arrangements that have developed from years of Brad’s multi-genre music production and Live PA performances.

The first single, “Rubberbands,” features the vocals of NYC-based singer/songwriter Marwan Kanafani and is already getting support from DJs such as Rick Preston, Demarkus Lewis, Murray Richardson, Presslaboys, Atnarko, Giom, Sebastian Davidson, Charles Spencer, Oscar G, and many many more.

“Pinstripe Late Nite” drops on Oct. 31st, 2008 and will be available digitally from Beatport, Traxsource, Xpressbeats, Clickgroove, and Juno Download. Exclusive pre-release downloads now available from Stompy. Join us at Temple Nightclub for the record release party on Thursday, Nov. 6th!