Max Graef and Glenn Astro haven’t been kicking around for ages. Both released their first records under five years ago, but, in that time, they have often worked in tandem to become a couple of the most highly respected producers in the biz.
Most recently, they started Money $ex Records, having previously worked with Sleazy Beats and Box Aus Records. There have already been six releases since last year, all exhibiting a sound that has become incredibly distinctive to them – jolly deep house and broken beat tracks forged from real instrumentation and warm samples, illuminating their position in a grand narrative from jazz through to hip-hop. The label’s artwork, consisting of gorgeous pastel colours and hairy bottoms, of all things, hints at a relaxed approach. There’s nothing serious going on here – other than the music being seriously good.
We’re really keen to get the Berlin-based twosome down to Wire for a night hosted by Nørd, whose colourful approach to promotion will be a perfect match for the Money $ex Sound.
To celebrate, here’s a pick of tracks from the label.
A real statement of intent from Graef and Astro here, who team up on the production of Money $ex’s first release. This is the EP’s intro, a real departure from their other electronically focussed tracks. You might call it future jazz.
The first guest on the label is IMYRMIND, who, on Money $ex 02, achieves really warm vibes. The drums and keys on this crusty, KDJ style deep house track are gorgeous. The beats occasionally break to keep things interesting, and keep the floor moving.
The third release on the label was an eight tracker from Berlin based newcomer Hodini, whose style is firmly in the hip-hop camp. This song is soothing, sample heavy, and even employs some sweet jazz flute. It would be a joy to listen to on a nice summer’s day.
This track, the label’s fourth release, is euphoric without moving above its station. It generates this effect through subtlety. It would equally work as both an easy listening and club-ready banger. A really deft production.
Money $ex 005, released in January this year. This track from newcomer Kickflip Mike is a bit more beefed up than previous releases, with its raucous, breakbeat-style drums, but retains an elegance with is floaty, melodic xylophone sample. It’s a track that could only be created with a keen ear for jazz.
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Oliver Walkden