Cosmic Resonance is a Toronto-based record label that’s only been around for a short while. It was launched in 2017 with a single entitled “Blue Notes” that was shortly followed up by the imprint’s first vinyl outing “Memoirs” from label co-founder Hemingway. The ethos of the label is to promote jazz, funk and contemporary electronic music, specifically from the Toronto area. So far they’ve done just that. Their sparse discography features locals Raf Reza and Korea Town Acid, as well as Hemingway.
Next up the label introduces it’s first various artists compilation, with artists from, you guessed it, Toronto’s underground electronic scene. Entitled Cosmic Residents, the music on the compilation goes beyond genres, spanning across quite a few and featuring sounds both cosmic and terrestrial. This first edition features returning local favourites and Cosmic Resonance residents Radiant Aura Faculty (aka Raf Reza), KOREA TOWN ACID and Hemingway along with newcomers (and making their vinyl and Cosmic Resonance debut) Body Butter, WeTurnToRed and Smoke & Shadows.
[soundcloud url=”https://soundcloud.com/boltingbits/premiere-hemingway-astralnauts” /] Today we’re shifting our focus to the premiere and A1 track, “Astralnauts”. A funked out bass starts things off alongside some airy pads and appropriate cosmic atmospheres. Jumping right into it, the track has got a fantastic groove that combines plenty of squelchy synths, a funky flute, rhythm guitar and some jazzy keys to boot. All of these elements are expertly applied in the arrangement where no one overpowers the other and only leaves you wanting more from the boogie monster that just had a go at your feet.
The compilation will be out April 26, but in the meantime keep an eye on the label’s Bandcamp and pre-order your copy.
Igor