ICONS is back in 2025 with another stellar lineup, and leading the charge is none other than BLOND:ISH, who will take the stage at Playa Pacha Pool and Beach Club on 7 February 2025. Known for her magnetic presence and ability to seamlessly cross genres, BLOND:ISH brings infectious energy to every set, making each performance a journey rather than just a party. With her highly anticipated album, ‘Never Walk Alone,’ dropping a week later on 14 February 2025, her ICONS appearance offers fans a chance to hear her fresh, club-ready sound in an unforgettable setting, building the anticipation for her new music. Set against the stunning backdrop of FIVE LUXE’s beachfront, Playa Pacha brings Ibiza’s iconic party spirit to Dubai. The venue is powered entirely by solar energy and forms part of FIVE LUXE’s LEED Platinum-certified ecosystem, making it a world leader in sustainable entertainment. This commitment to sustainability perfectly aligns with BLOND:ISH’s own mission as the founder of Bye Bye Plastics, an initiative aimed at eliminating single-use plastics in the music industry. ICONS, curated by the legendary Pacha Group, has already delivered standout moments in 2024, featuring artists like Adam Port and Rampa, Marco Carola b2b PAWSA, and Joseph Capriati. Now, 2025 kicks off with BLOND:ISH, promising another night to remember. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or simply searching for a world-class night out, this is a must-attend event.

Kickstarting 2025 with a sonic explosion, Viv Castle releases his much-anticipated single ‘Let It Roll’ on January 10th via his label, V55records. A master of precision and energy, Castle reaffirms his position as a visionary in the electronic music world. Stream now. ‘Let It Roll’ takes listeners on a dynamic journey, blending hypnotic basslines with shimmering synth layers and meticulously detailed rhythms. With its pulsating energy and infectious grooves, the track is a club weapon designed for peak-time euphoria. After a stellar 2024 marked by releases on heavyweight labels like Diynamic, Insomniac, SPINNIN, and Electronic Nature, Castle has proven himself a key architect of contemporary electronic sound. His ability to bridge underground intensity with universal appeal has earned him accolades from fans and peers worldwide. ‘Let It Roll’ sets the stage for an exhilarating 2025, showcasing Castle’s flair for crafting tracks that resonate with DJs and ignite dance floors. As the year’s first release from V55records, it signals big things ahead for both Castle and his label. Don’t miss ‘Let It Roll’—a track destined to become a favourite among dance music enthusiasts. Available January 10th, it’s a bold declaration of Viv Castle’s continued dominance in the scene.

Perfect Havoc sets the tone for 2025 by welcoming Italian DJ and producer Andrë to its star-studded lineup with the release of his exhilarating new single, ‘Lose Control.’ Known for breaking boundaries and discovering talent, the label kicks off the year in style with this club-ready anthem, dropping 10th January. Stream/download here: https://perfecthavoc.lnk.to/losecontrol. ‘Lose Control’ is a celebration of freedom and joy, crafted with driving beats, soaring melodies, and a masterful balance of nostalgic tones and modern vibes. Whether hitting the dancefloor or elevating your daily grind, this track guarantees an energy boost. As Andrea Crocicchia, Andrë earned acclaim with releases on Spinnin’ Records, Revealed, and Protocol Recordings, attracting support from the likes of Fedde Le Grand and Bingo Players. Reimagining his sound and identity, Andrë now delivers music that resonates with authenticity and individuality, as ‘Lose Control’ proudly demonstrates. For Perfect Havoc, this release exemplifies its expertise in discovering and nurturing dance music’s finest. With a proven history of chart success and billions of streams, the label consistently pushes the genre forward, and Andrë’s debut adds to its legacy of feel-good, game-changing tracks. Make ‘Lose Control’ your anthem for 2025. Turn it up and lose yourself in the rhythm. Available 10th January: https://perfecthavoc.lnk.to/losecontrol.

Hitting the ground running in 2025, David Morales kicks off his busy DIRIDIM release schedule with ‘Just Can’t Get Enough’, featuring the soulful US vocalist Randy Roberts. Morales delivers a feel-good soulful anthem in the making packed with smooth strings, funky guitar hooks and an enticing bass groove that guarantees to keep the dancefloor grooving this season. Randy Roberts, with his standout voice, takes centre stage on the track. His impressive vocal credentials speak for themselves, having worked with musical legends like Phil Collins, Craig David, and Amii Stewart, as well as alongside house icons such as DJ Spen, Thommy Davis, and Teddy Douglas. From the get go, ‘Just Can’t Get Enough’ shines with its upbeat energy, bolstered by Roberts’ stirring vocal performance, backed with gospel-inspired harmonies, whilst David brings his magical production wizardry to this Bandcamp exclusive release. Download it here: https://davidmorales1.bandcamp.com/album/just-cant-get-enough

This January, XOYO cements its place as one of London’s finest nightlife destinations with a lineup of bass-heavy Friday events that promise to keep Shoreditch shaking. Expect jungle, drum ’n’ bass, and bassline galore with Ray Keith: All Night Long (10th January), House of Girls Next Door (17th January), and MC Flux: 35 Years Deep (24th January). On 10th January, drum ’n’ bass icon Ray Keith takes the stage for an epic five-hour journey, joined by MCs Moose & Juiceman. “What a way to kick off the year. I'm going to be playing some soul, rare groove, jazz, hip hop, funk, disco, house, '88-'89 classics, and going through the gears from 91-94 - I'm gona throw in some pop classics because that's where we're from… Big up all the DJs that paved the way before us. See you on the dance floor.” - Ray Keith The spotlight turns to Girls Next Door on 17th January as the trio – Maddy V, Ms Pink, and Mila Falls – perform their electrifying 360-degree show. Backed by Euphonique, Katalyst, and Klumzykhemist, their blend of DJing, MCing, and breathtaking vocals promises a high-octane night. Finally, on 24th January, MC Flux celebrates an incredible 35 years in the jungle and drum ’n’ bass scene. With support from titans like DJ Flight, DJ Storm, 2 Bad Mice, T>1, and Doc Scott, Flux will deliver a masterclass across two rooms of bass euphoria. Thanks to Weird Science and LWE, XOYO continues to lead the charge in top-tier electronic music programming. With its intimate 800-capacity dance floor, it’s a venue where legends meet fans up close and personal. Tickets start at just £10 plus booking fees. Visit xoyo.co.uk or follow @xoyolondon on socials for all the latest updates.

French DJ and producer STO is back with a stunning new single, Aquasub 1. This Minimal and Deep Tech gem is packed with driving Deep House energy, swinging grooves, rumbling bass tones and rippling analogue melodies that flow effortlessly throughout. Download it for free here: https://hypeddit.com/sto-dj/aquasub1. With Aquasub 1, STO delivers a track that feels alive. Its dynamic rhythms and textured basslines build a hypnotic atmosphere perfect for late-night dancefloors or headphones alike. The balance of raw, minimal beats with warm, melodic touches shows STO’s knack for blending underground vibes with a touch of finesse. Drawing from his Parisian roots and a deep love of stripped-back production, STO’s music always carries a sense of understated sophistication. Aquasub 1 is no exception – it’s a track that feels modern but timeless, expertly crafted to keep you hooked from start to finish. Already turning heads among tastemakers and DJs, Aquasub 1 is another strong step forward for STO as he carves out his space in the global electronic music scene. STO https://www.facebook.com/STO.dj https://www.instagram.com/sto_dj https://open.spotify.com/artist/4BIwrHBpAWdIjPXLK1M7gq https://soundcloud.com/stodj https://stodjmusic.bandcamp.com

ESNS (Eurosonic Noorderslag) is back for its 2025 edition from 15th January to 18th in Groningen, the Netherlands. A cornerstone of Europe's live music scene, ESNS has long been a launching pad for breakthrough acts, offering music lovers and industry professionals a chance to catch rising stars before they become household names. A Four-Day Celebration of Music and Industry Insight ESNS isn't just a music festival—it's a complete immersion into Europe's music ecosystem. Over four days and nights, attendees can explore a vibrant program that includes live performances, conferences, awards ceremonies, and networking opportunities. By Day: The Conference The ESNS Conference is renowned for its forward-thinking discussions and insights into the music industry. With over 500 experts delivering panels, keynotes, and workshops, the topics span everything from AI and streaming to diversity, mental health, and sustainability. This year's highlights include: Alex Hardee (Wasserman Music), reflecting on his illustrious career managing acts like Liam Gallagher and London Grammar. Katie Melua and her manager, Sumit Bothra, discuss balancing parenthood and music careers. Dutch metal icons Anneke van Giersbergen and Sharon den Adel (Within Temptation) share insights into songwriting and touring globally. The speaker lineup also features key figures from Spotify, Primavera Sound, Roskilde Festival, and BBC Introducing, among others. By Night: The Festival As the sun sets, Groningen transforms into a hotspot for live music, with over 300 European artists performing across 30 venues. The ESNS Festival has a reputation for spotlighting future superstars. Previous alums include Stromae, Christine and the Queens, and Fontaines D.C. This year, ESNS shines its Focus on Italy, showcasing the nation's best-emerging talent. Acts like Bassolino, BigMama, and Post Nebbia will represent the vibrancy of Italian music. Celebrating Excellence: Awards and Programs Music Moves Europe Awards On 16th January, the spotlight will turn to 15 emerging artists nominated for the prestigious Music Moves Europe Awards, including the Grand Jury Award and Public Choice Award. Past winners include Dua Lipa, Hozier, and Rosalía. European Festival Awards This ceremony, which takes place on 15th January, recognises the best of Europe's festivals, from major events to boutique gems. European Talent Exchange Programme (ETEP) This initiative, marking its 20th anniversary, connects emerging European artists with festival bookers across the continent. To date, it has facilitated over 5,600 shows for artists like Sam Smith, AURORA, and Sigrid. New Horizons: Introducing EMERGE In a groundbreaking move, ESNS is launching EMERGE, a platform bridging Europe's music and audio-visual sectors. Backed by the European Commission, EMERGE aims to connect artists with sync opportunities in film, TV, gaming, and marketing. Its alpha launch will be unveiled during a special panel on 16th January. Plan Your ESNS Experience Timetable and App: Customise your schedule with the official ESNS app, available on the App Store and Google Play. ESNS Playlist: Get to know the lineup with curated playlists featuring confirmed acts. Tickets: Secure your spot now to be part of Europe's biggest music discovery event. Whether you're an industry professional, an emerging artist, or a music lover, ESNS25 promises to celebrate music, innovation, and creativity. Stay tuned for updates and explore all the details on the official ESNS website.

Slick house sounds on the Ubuntu label to kick off the year. Federico Grazzini & Fresco join forces for this nostalgic house outing which was released on the 3rd of January, the fifth release on the label. The track by the talented duo is a vibrant house record infused with electro nuances, born out of an inspired studio recording session. This production showcases the unmistakable grooves of the iconic Roland TR-909 and TR-606 drum machines, laying down a powerful rhythmic foundation. The duo enriches this base with lush, dynamic layers of sound created using vintage analog synthesizers from the 1970s, infusing the piece with a warm, retro essence. The combination of modern house sensibilities and classic electro elements results in a track that pays homage to the roots of electronic music while offering a fresh, contemporary edge. You can support the release here: https://www.beatport.com/release/confidence/4829315 Discover more about the artists and label here: https://www.instagram.com/federicograzzini/ https://www.instagram.com/ubunturecordslabel/

Savaya Bali, one of the most sought-after destinations for jungle parties, has kicked off the year with its ‘Law of the Jungle’ event series, offering a mix of music, stunning views, and unforgettable vibes. This exciting new chapter began in late December and will continue to deliver incredible nights through January, February, and March, with an impressive lineup of international talent. Located in Uluwatu, Bali, Savaya Bali sits high above the Indian Ocean on 100-meter cliffs, giving guests jaw-dropping views that make the perfect backdrop for an extraordinary music programme. The venue is all about blending luxury and relaxation with vibrant, high-energy performances, and ‘Law of the Jungle’ takes that atmosphere to a whole new level. The series began with a bang, as Monolink set the tone on 27th December, followed by unforgettable performances from the likes of ARTBAT, Kölsh & Mëstiza, The Martinez Brothers, Black Coffee, Fatboy Slim, Ben Böhmer, and Meduza. But the party is far from over, with even more incredible events lined up. Some of the biggest names in house and techno will be taking over the decks in the coming months, including Latin America's Gordo (11 January), house legend Nic Fanciulli (13 January), techno titan Marco Carola (18 January), Detroit’s party king Seth Troxler (19 January), and Metamorfosi's Joseph Capriati (25 January). On 26 January, the sounds of Amémé and Salomé le Chat will take centre stage for a night you won’t want to miss. February brings even more international heavyweights like Francis Mercier, Jamie Jones, Franky Rizardo, and Flight Facilities, alongside Ibiza’s famous ANTS party crew featuring Eats Everything, Melé, and Paco Osuna. Elderbrook, ANOTR, and Nitefreak will also join the festivities in February, before the legendary Fisher headlines in March. Whether you're a music lover, partygoer, or just looking to experience paradise with a bit of added rave magic, Savaya Bali’s ‘Law of the Jungle’ series offers something truly special. For more details and to grab your tickets, head to Savaya Bali.

Following a monumental year of achievements, Ros T teams up with Church Street Shuffle for the uplifting new single ‘Dancing by the Loch,’ which is out now on Perfect Havoc. This vibrant collaboration is the perfect soundtrack to kickstart the new year. Download or stream it here: https://rost.lnk.to/dancingbytheloch. The track is a masterclass in blending feel-good energy with emotional depth. Ros T’s knack for crafting irresistible grooves is on full display, while Church Street Shuffle’s innovative use of traditional Scottish elements adds a unique flavour. With its danceable rhythms, catchy vocal hooks, and euphoric melodies, ‘Dancing by the Loch’ stands out as an instant classic in alternative dance music. Ros T has been on an incredible trajectory since the release of his debut album Teach Me, which topped the iTunes Electronic Albums chart and earned support from BBC Radio 1 and KISS FM. Known for his fusion of disco-inspired beats and atmospheric soundscapes, the Glasgow-based artist has gained fans worldwide, amassing over 22 million streams. With backing from icons like Fatboy Slim and Annie Mac, Ros T is poised to continue his meteoric rise. For Church Street Shuffle, this collaboration is another milestone in their mission to modernize Scottish musical traditions. The Inverness-based duo draws from the bustling nightlife of their hometown, where musicians historically “shuffled” between venues on Church Street. Their debut album, The Five Day Weekend, fuses bagpipe melodies with cutting-edge electronic production, reflecting their dedication to both heritage and innovation. Perfect Havoc continues to break boundaries in the electronic music scene as a label. Boasting 11 billion streams and a history of chart-topping releases, the imprint is known for pushing the limits of dance music. ‘Dancing by the Loch’ adds yet another feather to its cap, showcasing Scotland’s vibrant contributions to the global music stage. Start your year with this fresh collaboration. Listen now: https://rost.lnk.to/dancingbytheloch.

Barcelona-born DJ and producer Rendher closed out 2024 on a high note, launching his first record label, No Religion Lab, and kicking off a new era in his career. Known for his ability to light up dancefloors at some of the world's most iconic venues—Ibiza's Hï, DC10, and Amnesia, London's Printworks, and New York's Brooklyn Mirage—Rendher's relentless work ethic and evolving sound have made him a standout in the global tech house scene. With No Religion Lab, Rendher's vision is clear: a space for unrestricted, boundary-pushing creativity. The label's debut release, 'Milito Pa', is a collaboration with longtime friend Ssero and offers a glimpse into this ethos. Equal parts nostalgic and forward-thinking, the track is already commanding dancefloors around the globe and sets the tone for what's to come—including Rendher's upcoming album in 2025. Download/stream it here: https://ffm.to/militopa. We welcome Rendher to Undrtone as our latest Shaping Sounds series guest, serving up five iconic tracks that have undoubtedly driven what is shaping up to be an exciting label platform in No Religion Lab. Marco Carola - Play It Loud! 'Play It Loud!' inspires my release' Milito Pa' because of its mastery in creating a groove that speaks volumes through minimalism. It shows how less can be more, letting subtle changes and a strong rhythm carry the track—a concept I've embraced in my own production. Kanye West - Champion Kanye West's 'Champion' is a brilliant example of creative sampling, taking Steely Dan's 'Kid Charlemagne' and transforming it into something fresh and uplifting. The way he flips the sample, layering it with his own beats and melodies, shows how a familiar sound can take on an entirely new meaning. This approach inspires me in 'Milito Pa', pushing me to experiment with sampling in unexpected ways to create a unique and modern vibe. Sen Senra, Sky Rompiendo - Uno De Eses Gatos Sen Senra and Sky Rompiendo's 'Uno De Esos Gatos' captures a passionate, vibrant energy that resonated with me during my trip to Colombia. The track's fusion of melodic hooks and rhythmic elements inspired me to channel that same intensity into my own creation. It reflects the essence of the experiences I had while crafting 'Milito Pa', making it a significant influence on my work. Ricardo Villalobos - Lazerpresent Ricardo Villalobos' 'Lazerpresent' is a masterclass in minimalism, showcasing how subtle sound design and glitchy percussion can create an immersive experience. The track's intricate layers and unexpected rhythmic variations demonstrate how simplicity can evoke powerful emotions on the dancefloor. Villalobos' innovative use of glitchy textures inspires me to experiment with similar techniques, pushing the boundaries of my sound. 4th Sign - The Movement I discovered 'The Movement' by 4th Sign early this year, and its simplicity and effective use of sampling immediately caught my attention. The sampled bass and hypnotic flow emphasize how powerful grooves can emerge from just a few well-chosen elements. This minimalistic approach inspires me to explore similar techniques in my own music, as both tracks demonstrate how sampling can create engaging and compelling sounds. Rendher's 'Milito Pa' (feat. Ssero) is available to download/stream now via No Religion Lab here. Rendher Facebook - Instagram - Soundcloud - Twitter (X)

Mark Reeve Sisko Electrofanatik's record label, Gain Records welcomes the return of Roberto Pagliaccia who drops a dark and smouldering peak time techno release, which alongside his two original tracks, also features a remix by Mark Reeve. Roberto Pagliaccia is a Gain Records regular who with this release, features original material on the imprint for the 6th time, and he has also released exhilarating techno tracks via other respected outlets such as Future Techno Records. Roberto Pagliaccia is an Italian artist from Firenze, who produces an eclectic range of styles. His techno tracks fuse explosive percussion and intense synth lines with dark atmosphere. On remix duty, Mark Reeve is a revered techno artist from the UK who now lives in Germany. He first burst onto the scene as a young prodigy discovered by Sven Väth, and has spent the last decade establishing himself as one of the world's most dynamic techno producers. He has released on record labels ranging from Terminal M to Drumcode, and also runs his own imprint, SubVision. Mark Reeve's hypnotic style focuses on stripped-back percussion and mesmerising synth lines. The release's title track, "Nobody House" opens proceedings with a hammering kick drum and rumbling bassline forming a foundation for its hard-hitting groove. It's tantalising arpeggio slowly filters in as the track progresses towards the breakdown's captivating vocals, before the drums slam back in and the track lifts to the next level, with the help of spiralling synths and tense pads. Mark Reeve's remix of "Nobody House" toughens the percussion, and adds an electric bassline with pulsating energy. He also extends the breakdown section to build heightened suspense before the drums hit back in to deliver a moment of maximum impact. "Happens Illusion" is the second of the two original tracks, and it combines acid synths with soulful vocal textures with high-octane percussion. It's a hands in the air slice of techno with uplifting energy shrouded by dark atmosphere. Buy a copy HERE