It’s been a long time since we released a track from the long haired CIA joint label owner under his solo guise; the dance music legend and all round pretty damn special man, Q Project. And after not such a long time, we welcome back a young upstart, a man kicking in the back door of the D&B scene, the recently rig smashing Myth.
Here we see the two combining with ‘Demonz’. If these two were allowed to meet in a real studio to make this track, you’d need a serious X rating on the conversation going on between those four rather close together walls. We’re unable to reveal whether there was a real actual meeting of great minds or not, but rest assured the track will do as much damage as the conversations would. Fingerprints from both of them are instantly on show here for a collaboration coming deep out of left field – it’s sure to get some people talking.
The flip sees young Myth come correct with his take on the Q Project classic ‘Trouble’. Turning this early 2000’s staple into a weighty 2021 roller, Myth’s skills on the buttons are once again evident for all to see; and the package is completed with a remaster of this 20-year-old bubbler!
Fresh off the back of his latest installation of rollers and heavy hitters, FD drops in for a welcome visit to CIA. Already a firm favourite of the label, the producer’s recent form has seen him consistently stepping up through the gears, firing off a volley of dancefloor weapons and soulful cuts.
FD’s latest offering sees the producer deliver three refined yet weighty DJ tools, as he helps to connect the dots between sound for the more daring listeners and selectors. As usual with his work, each track turns in different directions, thoughtfully yet powerfully constructed.
‘First Sound’ is a lesson in class and stripped back simplicity, rolling and weighty yet with a character all of its own, making for a classic DJ tool. ‘Timberline’ takes proceedings a little darker and more techno-tinged with it’s looped soundscapes and layers, while the latest collaboration between FD and Total Science, ‘True North’ brings things down a notch, yet is loaded with enough bassweight to do serious damage.
Lightweights. This tune is not for you. This one is for those who can go hard. And go long. Otherwise you might not know what's hit you. An early 2000's anthem, the original version of Lightweight was a Total Science classic. Laced with TS trademarks, the track was a staple in every DJs set, rinsed in the clubs.
And now, it's been updated by the one and only Break. If you want to take an already big tune, and raise it to even another level, he's the man to go to; he's got form. And he's done it in style. Sticking faithfully to the original vibe, he brings this banger firmly into 2020, maintaining all the key elements and sonically updating it for the 21st century, but still keeping a class and subtlety to the proceedings. Hoovers, stabs, breaks and bass. It's all there. Hold tight for the four-four section in the breakdown though, you're not ready.
And to keep the vibe of the former CIA LTD releases from former years, the flip sees another remix paired alongside; coming from the newest wing of the Bristol Drum & Bass mafia, the Ill Truth boys are brought in to update a more modern-day CIA classic, Phaction and Leo Wood’s ‘I Have You’. Once again they show a maturity and class that belies their youthful and hairless visages, bringing the weight and the funk that Total Science always require.
a1. Total Science - Lightweight (Break Remix)
b1. Phaction - I Have You ft Leo Wood (Ill Truth Remix)
Bringing some of that good good to the table, next up on Total Science’s always-influential CIA Records, are two essential additions for your next musical banquet, courtesy of the hottest new crew straight out of Bristol, The Sauce.
With only a handful of tracks released so far, word on the street is that The Sauce are already giving hardened Drum & Bass fans plenty to relish. With their talents combined in the studio and each member dipping deep into their ample knowledge and sample collection, their output so far has been weighty, funky and fun. Kiss The Ring and WUT carry on this excellent direction for the threesome.
Kiss The Ring brings together, yet distils all of the most essential Drum & Bass ingredients into a dish that is to be truly savoured. With a trademark vocal, weighty sub and blazing mid basses, this is classic Sauce. WUT starts by taking you down a slightly mellower avenue, keeping things nice and coulis, but things soon ramp up to a normal level of Sauciness, making sure everyone leaves nice and full.
This is jus the start for The Sauce – they hope you’ve got your plates ready.
This one’s straight out of ‘96 – or is it? Taking you back deep down to the sounds of now, it’s DLR on Total Science’s CIA Records, with three slamming cuts to possibly jam your radar – but sure to pleasure your senses.
DLR is on another plane with his sonic capabilities, with an almost unmatched ability to capture that contemporary big room sound. Match him with rave luminaries Total Science and you and The Doc may as well have parked the Delorean outside Stratford Rex. Going in deep with a few of the more obscure old skool breaks, big bold rave pianos and classic samples – you’re sure you maybe heard this one before? And that big big bass to just take apart the place. This one’s danger.
The One More Record EP houses three killer cuts from DLR, the lead track ‘Spluurge’ alongside Total Science. They all capture the jungle vibe perfectly, yet sound bang up to date, and are sure to feature in any DJs set that values that 90’s vibe and needs to take the roof off the dance.
Piloted by Total Science, Computer Integrated Audio aka C.I.A Records remain a reputable source for all things Total Science along with a core of welcomed allies and newcomers. Serving as a beacon for purist drum and bass/jungle lovers, C.I.A proceed to bring the heat during these long Summer days.
Teaming up with Bristol based producer War on both cuts, the digital A-Side ‘What Now’ makes a splash with iced out breakbeats and a fuzzy granular synthline. Combining ample bits of low-end punch, this is a roller you’ll want to keep drawing for.
Total Science & War’s ‘Cool & Deadly’ rehash classic jungle samples while creating a rocksteady dreamscape vibe. The funky aesthetics and complex drum kit carves out a deadly groove, bottling up the true essence of drum and bass. Be sure to snag this release and check out Total Science’s latest collaborative effort with War.
CIA Records give us the fourth instalment in the hugely popular Classified Series. It's an all-star line-up with new talents mixing with established artists and established artists forming new entities, it's very much a collaborative affair with each track being made by more than one person.
The EP starts with The Sauce (a new act comprising Spinback Total Science, DLR and Hydro) remixing perhaps the biggest dnb tune of the 00s- 'Nosher'. Zero T links up with Phase on the soulful future classic, 'Talk To Me.'
Total Science and Script deliver all the bass you need in under 5 mins with 'Devils Gate' and Bristol production duo Ill Truth link up with Rotterdam's Satl round the EP off with 'Hot Data.’
CIA Records is an imprint who has remained at the centre of drum & basses history, with esteemed producers Total Science creating it during the genre’s formative years in 1997.
The forthcoming EP on CIA, Field’s‘Intention Dub’, highlights the eclectic mix of artists who have joined the roster since its first release. Featuring a variety of collaborative producers, the six-track EP exemplifies the talented intricacies of Fields and his masterful song compositions. The names that run alongside Fields stand out within their own right, with underground stalwarts Mako, and McLeod, roller top dog Break, frequent partner Villem(who go under their pseudonym Mute) and Forren, who also makes an appearance. As a collective, they represent many of the artists who helped CIA build their impressive back catalogue.
Fields, Break, Villem & McLeod produce a heavyweight formula through‘Intention Dub’, an energetic roller which flips between its ingenious use of instrumentals and flicking bass stabs. Its beginning drum rolls create a formation of what’s to come from such a formidable outfit of artists, warming up the track for its full audio assault as it breaks.‘Takashi’ moves forward with the help of Forren, kicking into play amongst cackling snares and lunging kick drums. Following‘Takashi’ is‘Full Court Press’, drawing in the straight-cut production style and methodically chiselled compositions which make this EP such a stand out offering. The like of Fields’ and Mako’s‘Price of Imagination’ pushes you through thoroughly built channels with shifting under layers of hi-hats and shattering snare. Its bassline provides a throbbing undercurrent, which offers a weightier edge. Villem then joins Fields for their next collaboration‘Kryos’, which is stepped down but still states it presence with every clambering break.‘City Soul’ is an individual release from Fields focusing on the same percussive atmosphere and it streams throughout its mix. It sets a backdrop for early mornings and late night sets, drawing for the minimalistic style which has helped propel his career. One prevalent throughout his‘Intention Dub’ EP.
The package stands for what CIA deliver time after time; pivotal music releases which have remained of the highest standards for over two decades. And Fields has helped them achieve this yet again with another incredible EP.
a1. Fields, Break, Villem & Mcleod - Intention Dub
With an incredible back catalogue, C.I.A Records are a staple in D&B culture, having being responsible for some of the most iconic music to grace the scene. Emphasis on authenticity and quality control has resulted in flawless output revered upon dancefloors worldwide. Following the recent success of Riya's Hurt Heals EP, there's no holding back as C.I.A makes way for the third instalment in the Classified series, a 4 track killer combination featuring the heavyweight talents of Total Science, Villem, Critical Impact, Jakes and Arcatype.
The first track sees Villem step up to remix 'False Alarm' by Total Science, Quadrant & Iris. Flexing his technical prowess with this chest-shattering offering, Villem teases sonorous atmospherics around sharp percussive hits, building to a medley of full impact subsonic weight and aggressive drum patterns that cut right through the mix. For his debut appearance on the label, Critical Impact teams up with vocal powerhouse Jakes to deliver 'Geeks and Geez.' Critical Impact combines deep, rumbling subs and resonant mid tones which go hand-in-hand with Jakes' raw vocal energy and no-nonsense lyricism, making this a sure-fire dancefloor heavy hitter for the masses. For the third track, Total Science drop 'What I Need'; a beautifully crafted composition filled with tranquil pads and articulate rolling drums serving as a solid backbone. Reversed atmospherics and glistening pianos swell in and out of the track with a deep, warm sub to bring it all together. Finally, Arcatype's 'Cascade' is an immersive roller bursting with ethereal tones and snappy percussions, taking you on a journey of rolled out sub lines and mid-range stabs washed with subtle reverb and delay.
Classified V3 delivers an across-the-board, cutting-edge offering of their signature D&B blend. Combining the raw energy of 'False Alarm' and 'Geeks and Geez' alongside the deep overtones of 'What I Need' and 'Cascade' Classified V3 is solid proof that C.I.A are always at the top of their game, rolling strong since 1996 with no sign of turning back.
Total Science are back to grace their own imprint CIA Records, and this time they enlist the musical and technical prowess of fellow Bristol associates Hydro and War alongside themselves on The Reign EP.
Made up of four killer slabs of fast paced, moving and deep Drum & Bass, the influence of each party is immediately obvious in each track. Total Science are infamous for their breaks and rave influences that have often been present in their music since they first started releasing in the early 1990’s. Hydro has been releasing music since 2007, working with a slew of respected producers such as Break, DLR, FD and Halogenix amongst many others. He is infamous for his epic sample collection and the deep and deadly vibe that he brings to tracks. And the young French extraordinaire War has already shown he is a force to be reckoned with, consistently releasing music with a sublime depth and musicality that belies his age – and also a power and punch that consistently rips clubs to shreds.
The Reign EP brings the finest attributes of each of the parties to the table, and results in a well-rounded collection of music that offers something to a wide range of listeners. Whether you want to lock them into a groove, tear the roof off the club, or get them thinking about what will come next in this world, The Reign EP has it in spades.
CIAare very happy to once again welcome the infamous Flying Dutchman to the fold, Mr Nymfo! With his smooth n sexy ʻGame Of Loveʼ still ringing out loud on the CIA 20 LP, the notorious DJ and Producer returns for his fourth solo release with the camp, in the shape of his ʻStop Motion EPʼ.
Teaming up with Drum & Bass Number 1 vocalist Riyafor the EPʼs lead track, ʻSomething Tells Meʼis the perfect harmony of Nymfoʼs weighty yet nuanced beats and Riyaʼs song writing ability. Solid drums and heavy bass sit neatly alongside a sublime piano hook, and a beautiful performance from the vocalist makes for a peak time sing along track.
ʻBarflyʼand ʻStop Motionʼare possibly more classic slices of Nymfo production. The first invokes thoughts of late 90ʼs Bristol raves and rollers whilst summoning the spirit of James Brown and the second harks back to the Icicle & Nymfo classic ʻFrankie Mountainʼ and Digital & Spirit rave destroyers!
ʻBread& Butterʼcloses out the EP in once again more melodic style, Nymfo showing yet another string to his bow with an arppegiated synth line leading the track into classic late night rollers territory.
This year sees Total Science celebrate the 20th birthday of their CIA Records label. Known as a breeding ground for new and exciting producers, as well as a platform for bonafide legends of the scene to release their tracks, two decades down the line, the label continues to consistently release great music. To help celebrate this impressive landmark, Total Science will release the ʻCIA 20ʼ LP this summer.
A sampler drops first on 3rd June announcing the project in style. Three killer tracks come on vinyl, with a digital bonus wrapping up the package.
Q Projectʼs ʻChampion Soundʼ was one of the most important and iconic tracks of the early 90ʼs rave scene. The trackʼs hook is instantly recognisable and itʼs bassline consistently takes dancefloors apart. For the sampler itʼs given a 2016 update by one of Drum & Bassʼ most technically gifted and astute producers, DLR. Heʼs managed to maintain the essence of the track, while giving it a serious update. Since itʼs first airing on BBC Radio 1, the remix has taken the scene by storm and will be heard reverberating in clubs worldwide for months to come.
Calibre graces the label once again, with another trademark slice of musical goodness. ʻUnder Barsʼ is classic Calibre – rolling, harmonic, understated gracefulness, itʼs a track that shows exactly why he is one of the most respected producers in contemporary Drum & Bass.
Label owners Total Science also step up to the plate with ʻRespect Dueʼ. It showcases the trademark style the guys are so well known for, classic but tightly produced breaks, ravey bleeps and vocals, and yet another club and sound system punishing bassline.
CIA is back once again, this time with a seriously weighty EP contribution from Newcastleʼs finest, Chroma!
Having already supplied the label with two absolute gems in the form of ʻIntermissionʼand their ʻWoonga Remixʼ, we asked them back to come and blow the doors off once again, and theyʼve come and done it in style with their ʻOutline EPʼ. Formed of 3 tracks on vinyl and one digital exclusive, this one looks set to rip the dances apart.
Opening up with the title track ʻOutlineʼ, weʼre taken back to the legendary jungle years, with the track based around a break we all know and love. Catchy vocal edits, ear-bending mid basses and banging 808 subs tie it all together to make a track thatʼll take the ravers back to that Golden Age.
Next up is ʻHodrullʼ, most probably named after all of our favourite Emu loverʼs big boss. The tune has some serious big-boss-ness about it too, stepping out tight and heavy, maybe perfect for tuning your TV to.
ChromaʼsʻIntermissionʼwas a big tune. It got a lot of rotation when it first came out, and was a staple in many peopleʼs sets for a long time after. How to raise the bar on that? Get the one and only badman Break in to remix it! This one ensures dancefloor devestation and smashes it everytime.
2016 sees Total Science’s resplendent CIA label start the year with a bang with four seriously choice cuts from label associates both old and new on the brand spanking ‘ClassifiedV2’ EP.
Ed:It&Pennygiles’ ‘Set Theory’ made some serious waves when it dropped on the label in 2014. Its killer bassline had dance floors bouncing and so it was time to bring in the kings of DnB big bottom to give it a new twist for 2016 – Ulterior Motive. Known for their next level bass science, UM have come in and, without straying too far from the original idea, tightened and updated it. It may sound deep at home, but on a club system, this one goes off every time.
Next up is ‘Wanna B 3’, from ST Files & Response. ST first graced CIA all the way back in 2001 with ‘305’. His and Response’s collaboration here comes in the form of a deep and hypnotic Detroit tinged roller. A perfect track for rolling out in the mix, it’s the ideal tool for setting a vibe and getting the club locked in.
‘FoundA Reason Why’ from Total Science& FD lifts the mood back up. This is the friend’s first collaboration, and brings elements typical of each other’s tracks. A simple piano hook, catchy vocal and arrangement make this a great tune for the club. But it’s the epic breakdown in the middle that really takes the tune and listener to another level, building up till it’s guaranteed party time once again.
Villem& McLeod wrap up the EP with ‘Strange You’. A super tight halftime number, it’s flittering percussion and edits sit neatly alongside the morphing talking bassline after a smooth and cinematic intro. It draws the listener in with its softer elements and layered feel, but then sets the floor alight with it’s big sound and rolling beat.
a1. Ed:it & Pennygiles - Set Theory (Ulterior Motive Remix)
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