Arnold & Lane Jump on DIRTYBIRD with ‘Dinky Whale’

Arnold & Lane Jump on DIRTYBIRD with ‘Dinky Whale’

Today, Arnold & Lane take their relationship with DIRTYBIRD to the next step with their first full EP on the label, ‘Dinky Whale.’ The two-tracker follows up the duo’s debut via the 2020 ‘Couchout Compilation,’ as well as various live stream appearances on DIRTYBIRD TV.

‘Dinky Whale’ encapsulates the buoyant, tech-fueled sound that the flock has come to love in recent years, beginning with a title track whose off-kilter sound effects, deepened vocals, and zippy bassline bounce around the ears. With an explosive post-breakdown section, “Dinky Whale” was designed for dancefloor destruction. “That’s House Music” starts off with a trip to nostalgia via its central vocal clip, building itself into a grooving composition with a hefty low-end and hypnotic synthwork.

Arnold & Lane met and bonded over their mutual love of all things bass and house, eventually fine tuning their sound into the club friendly blend of genres they’re known for today. Outside their ties to DIRTYBIRD—which also includes a slot in the upcoming CampINN event from May 14-17—the duo have become regulars in AC Slater’s Night Bass fold, and have additionally signed records to the likes of Box of Cats and Dumb Fat. Expect to see them continuing to make waves on the event circuit as the world continues its transition back to normalcy.

Steve Darko Announces Debut LP on DIRTYBIRD with a Double-Sided ‘Descending’

Steve Darko Announces Debut LP on DIRTYBIRD with a Double-Sided ‘Descending’

Today, Steve Darko has announced his debut artist album,‘Midnight Swim’ with the double-sided ‘Descending’ single—out now on DIRTYBIRD. The full length effort features fourteen tracks, each building upon the ingenuity and cutting edge sound design that attracted the label to the budding talent just a few years ago.

Darko’s journey to defy expectation begins immediately in both singles out today, “Descending” and “Red.” The former stirs tension with its high reaching pitch before “Descending” into a menacing hook marked with heavy percussion. It fits easily into the darkest depths of the producer’s catalog, a welcomed departure from the producer to watch. Meanwhile, “Red” pays homage to the halcyon days of acid house while maintaining a modernized arrangement. Rising Floridian star and fellow DIRTYBIRD mentee Nala added a futuristic touch to the finished product with her vocal talents. These sonics stand in direct contrast to “Descending,” pointing to just how dynamic and multifaceted a record ‘Midnight Swim’ will be.

The album is not just a platform for sonic exploration to Steve Darko—it’s ultimately a tale of balance in life, of dark and light. Even its title captures those moments of levity amid a pitch black backdrop. Written largely during a time of global uncertainty and forced lockdowns, ‘Midnight Swim’ in itself was a way for Darko to find his own freedom and catharsis despite grim surrounding circumstances. The project is a manifestation of balance in his personal life; though his work as a full time developer with music production software leader iZotope brings him fulfillment, he holds an equal passion in creating and playing out his art to the world. ‘Midnight Swim’ was thus an exercise in perseverance, and of reconciling these two driving forces.

The album also speaks to the power of collaboration, an art Darko has always embraced as an artist. He employs a multitude of guest artists for the affair, including Claude VonStroke, VNSSA, Rachel Alix, and of course, Nala, to name a few. Nearly half of the LP contains guest writers, which work to push Darko further outside his comfort zone. Each collaborator played a unique role in bringing his vision to fruition, helping to shape the eclectic and wide reaching nature of the record.

DIRTYBIRD’s core ethos has always been about pushing innovative music from the brightest stars of tomorrow—an ethos the brand has reinvigorated heavily in recent years. In providing Steve Darko full support to create the album he envisioned for himself, the resulting patchwork of genres, styles, and instrumentation drives in their staunch commitment to this philosophy. In return, ‘Midnight Swim’ is Darko’s way of pushing both himself and his label family into the next chapter.

Black V Neck’s ‘Bounce Music’ is a Brilliant follow-up to DIRTYBIRD Debut

Black V Neck’s ‘Bounce Music’ is a Brilliant follow-up to DIRTYBIRD Debut

In 2019, Black V Neck made their grand entrance on DIRTYBIRD with the lauded ‘Mouth Music.’ They make their return to the label today with a fresh and funky new two-tracker, this time dubbed ‘Bounce Music.’

One might expect the EP to incite bouncing per the title Black V Neck have bestowed upon it, and indeed it delivers. A springy bassline on its title track paired with a distorted “bounce” vocal mimics the feeling implied, and fits in well with DIRTYBIRD’s quirkier side. “What She Wants” is equally buoyant, and like its predecessor, uses vocals as a main pillar of its construction. This time, however, the duo lean deeper into their eccentricity with various bites of synth and other sound effects.

Having cut their teeth on the local circuit for quite a few years now, Black V Neck are ready to make their entrance into the global sphere. With an expressive ethos that battles the monotony and elitism in today’s underground sphere, the Miami-bred duo are here to provide a refreshing breath of air into house music. They’ve already received major support from Shiba San through signings on the French DJ’s imprint, and are quickly becoming favorites among the DIRTYBIRD ranks. Prior to ‘Mouth Music,’ the pair made their Defected debut with a remix of John Summit’s “Deep End.”

Order a copy here

DIRTYBIRD Announces Massive Lineup for Birdhouse Festival

DIRTYBIRD Announces Massive Lineup for Birdhouse Festival

Located outdoors at Exposition Park downtown, DIRTYBIRD is set to bring a brand new two-day function to the city of Los Angeles. The Birdhouse Festival will bring together a mix of Dirtybird vibes with some new talent and old school street fair games and activities.

Set to take place during the second weekend of May, DIRTYBIRD’s Birdhouse Festival is bringing the likes of KiNK, Roman Flugel, Eddy M, Cour T., and Claude Vonstroke for the 2-day extravaganza. Birdhouse Festival L.A. will take place outdoors in the early summer sunshine. The music goes hand in hand with cotton candy, corn dogs, and Dirtybird prizes. DIRTYBIRD is also giving local dance crews the opportunity to show off their skills on a big stage!

With a lineup like this in the beautiful city of Los Angeles, it is safe to assume that this festival will be one to remember. 

Don’t miss out, PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Catz ‘N Dogz kick off the new year with “Body”

Catz ‘N Dogz kick off the new year with “Body”

Polish duo Catz ‘N Dogz make their grand return to Dirtybird with their new single, “Body.” 

Longtime Dirtybird friends Cats ‘N Dogz return to the label with “Body,” a track that lives up to the “first track of the decade” pedestal. “Body” takes you on an unforgettable journey through mesmerizing acid soundscapes and sharply crafted percussion patterns which are accompanied by Simon Black’s liberating monologue that focuses on empowering the listener. Catz ‘N Dogz’ signature sound combined with Simon Black’s vocal contribution results in an unforgettable trip that is best suited for USA powerhouse Dirtybird. 

The EP also includes a Dub version of “Body.”

Purchase the “Body” EP here

Ardalan’s ‘Mr. Good’ LP out now on DIRTYBIRD Records

Ardalan’s ‘Mr. Good’ LP out now on DIRTYBIRD Records

Today marks the LP debut of Ardalan on DIRTYBIRD Records. “Mr. Good” is the reminiscent tale of the producer’s unique youth and the common struggles of being human. 

Originally from Iran, Ardalan moved to San Francisco solo as a young teenager, where he was quickly introduced to the rave community. Having lived in such vastly different environments, Ardy has developed a unique sound that channels the melancholic melodies of Iranian music and futuristic compositions of modern dance music. 

The vintage sound of analog synths unite with futuristic spacey elements, sending us into a sonic time warp. Listen to ‘Mr. Good’ in full here

Ardalan also drew inspiration from the moral compass, and the constant effort to find the virtuous path. When asked about the title-track, Ardy had this to say: “‘Mr. Good’ is about a story of self-acceptance. In some cases, we strive to be the perfect person. Yet, we never learn to be ourselves. We and society are forced to wear a mask to hide our true traits and flaws, which are the very reasons that push us to be a better person in this world.” 

The artist is currently on a 36-stop tour across North America, making stops at Santa Fe’s Meow Wolf, Los Angeles’ Sound, Chicago’s Spybar and more. See if he’s visiting your city here

Cour T. – Black Magic

Cour T. – Black Magic

Cour T. might only be 16, but he’s already got a promising career ahead as DIRTYBIRD’s newest signee. His newest EP, Black Magic, contains one of Claude VonStroke’s favorite tracks of the year. Said tune, the two-tracker’s eponymous A-side,  stimulating, driving, and sensous, tapping into the carnal parts of the brain via hollow percussive elements stripped-down synths. “Downstairs” also packs the heat, taking on a longey, 4am feel with minimal production and a pulsing bassline.

“Every time I play Cour T.’s ‘Black Magic”’ the room changes. The entire vibe of the party goes from hands in the air to grinding, sexual energy, states VonStroke of his treasured new release. “his track has arcane properties on the dance floor. I wish I had 10 tracks with this vibe because nothing else sounds like it and when I play it, I always wish I could keep the vibe for longer.”

No wonder he kept it so long for himself before releasing to the masses.

DIRTYBIRD wants you to ‘Get Roasted’ for Grilling Season

DIRTYBIRD wants you to ‘Get Roasted’ for Grilling Season

VNSSA brings the heat with a fresh comp mix that will leave you hungry for Dirtybird BBQ.

The all-fun and basslines DIRTYBIRD crew is gearing us up for grill season, dishing out a brand-new, tasty comp of beats from VNSSA, Codes, Steve Darko, Tom Flynn and more. Chugging rhythms, bleeping bird calls and lip-smacking kicks keep the coals burning with tracks like ‘Show Me’ (Max Freeze & Papa Marlin), ‘Aves’ (Holt 88) and ‘Culture’ (Pete Graham & Marc Spence).

Those familiar with DIRTYBIRD’s Campout series are in for everything we love about Dirtybird BBQs: good food, bumping beats, endless entertainment. The home-cooked parties will come to five cities across the US this summer, beginning with its home presence in the Bay, a return to LA, Austin, and Brooklyn, and will set up camp for the first time in Denver this year.

Stream ‘Get Roasted’ on Spotify:

or the ‘Get Roasted’ Continuous Mix by VNSSA on Youtube:

  1. Steve Darko & VNSSA – Wavy
  2. Holt 88 – Aves
  3. Max Freeze & Papa Marlin – Show Me
  4. Emery Warman – Bonesaw
  5. Westend & John Summit – Detonate
  6. Pete Graham & Marc Spence – Culture
  7. Codes – 100% Skills
  8. Steady Rock – El Sonido
  9. Tom Flynn feat Tamara Deike – I Wanna See You
  10. Illusionize – This Is My Flow
Tanzmann’s Newest DIRTYBIRD Release is a Treat

Tanzmann’s Newest DIRTYBIRD Release is a Treat

Matthias Tanzmann is an expert at laying down some serious deep house, and his new EP is no exception to the rule. Out on DIRTYBIRD Records, the two-track EP aptly named, “The Treat,” is a sweet addition to the label.

“The Treat” is a clubbers delight. The EP opener is made for the club scene, as it keeps people moving in the wee hours of the night. It’s pushing beat and tech-style synths make it a Tanzmann classic, but the kicker on this track is the simplistic lyrics of, “it’s the beat, beat, that gives you the treat.” It’s truly a clubber’s anthem. The second track, Filthy, is equally as fun in its quirky lyrics and funky samples over the relentless high-hats.

Get to dance floor if you want a lesson on perfect house music production. But don’t forget, DIRTYBIRD and Tanzmann would like you to have some with it.

Marc Houle’s EP Release on DIRTYBIRD is Utterly Unique

Marc Houle’s EP Release on DIRTYBIRD is Utterly Unique

DIRTYBIRD welcomes Marc Houle back to the label, this time with his own EP titled makes “Min and Soda.” Hailing from Canada, Houle is a practiced producer and knows how to entice the crowd with his unique live sets. Years of experience a vast knowledge of electronic music result in his remarkable ability to produce a sensory experience – exemplified in this EP.

The opener, “Min and Soda” is a minimal trippy track featuring offbeat synths and a futuristic tech-house sound. In typical Marc Houle fashion, the listener is never able to guess what’s coming next, and the track is anything but cookie-cutter.

The second track, “Car and Driver” is just as unique. Ears perk up with a driving acid line that never lets up, and from start to finish we become a passenger in his fast-paced car racing through a vintage-inspired video game. As per usual, Houle’s unusual style turns up a success.