James Barnsley, a resident at the legendary Back to Basics in Leeds, launched his Vessel Records imprint in 2015. Having cut his teeth at ‘Basics’ playing alongside the likes of Chez Damier, Delano Smith and Josh Wink, Barnsley is well liked and recognised amongst the upper echelons of house and techno – but it’s his productions for the likes of Get Physical, murmur and Overall Music that have helped provide a springboard for the Yorkshireman’s rep.
Josh Plews asked him to tell the story of Vessel Records’ roster so far. This will get you in the mood for Saturday’s party at Wire with Politics of Dancing, Scan Mode, Trackers and Barnsley himself.
James Barnsley – Dinadon
Taken from his ‘In The Woods E.P’ which is one of Barnsley’s strongest works to date, ‘Dinadon’ was what spurred Barnsley on to start his label, pairing a laid back groove with an infectious hook and indiscernible spoken word sample.
James Barnsley – Colorado feat. Scan Mode
Also featured on ‘In The Woods’ is ‘Colorado’ where Barnsley teams up with Madrid producer Scan Mode for a hypnotic number incorporating an undulating lead synth and ethereal pads which has received support from the likes of Fabrics Terry Francis and Laura Jones.
DJ Honesty – Schillerkiez
’Schillerkiez’ from Berlin’s DJ Honesty, also known for his releases on Cabinet and Sonar Kollektiv. Scenic samples inaugurate ‘Schillerkiez’, making way for an infectious synth hook and rippling bassline as subtle nuances come and go.
DJ Honesty – Schillerkiez (Burnski Remix)
Burnski, who’s released on Constant Sound and Holic Trax then provides a mesmerising remix of ‘Schillerkiez’ with a low-slung groove and added vocal. More to come from Burnski on Vessel later this year under his brand new alias.
DJ W!ld – Plus Loin
French veteran DJ W!ld delivers the third release on Vessel which features two originals plus remixes from Argentinean producer Franco Cinelli and label founder James Barnsley. The EP features ‘Plus Loin’ which is a thudding piece of robust house featuring heady toms, suspenseful drum rolls and spectral keys.
Politics of Dancing, Scan Mode, Trackers and James Barnsley play Back to Basics: Vessel Records showcase at Wire this Saturday 20 February 2016.