Since its inception two years ago, LA’s Understated has been an ever-present force in the city’s vibrant underground scene. Championing top-tier talent across techno, tech house and more, the outfit built a self-contained community of passionate musicians and fans. The label arm of that community, Understated Recordings, is an extension of that tight-knit feel – so it’s only fitting that the imprint’s first-ever compilation installment is a true family affair.

Aptly titled All of U|S / VOL 001, the collection is front to back heat spanning a variety of genre flavors that still manage to flow in four-to-the-floor harmony. The compilation sees the return roster mainstays like Modus and Grentsa, and adds a hefty influx of newcomers to the mix ranging from brotherly house duo Joluca to In The Loop label boss Lupe Fuentes. Fresh off his Heightened Sensitivity EP on mau5trap, Anakim‘s “Mastadon” is a deep and heavy standout, while 28mm‘s “Ghost” is a sinister burner fit for even the darkest warehouses. The real surprise of the compilation is the way it deftly weaves in and out of moods and feels ranging from playful house cuts to relentless techno. The talented group at play on Understated Recordings’ debut compilation is sure to resurface again soon for future releases – but in the meantime, they’ll be driving LA’s dance floors ’til the late hours.

Tags: la, understated recordings

Categories: Music