As the Moonshine back catalog continues to grow in both size and undeniable quality, the imprint has launched one of the finest campaigns to date with the ‘Steppin’ Forward’ VA LP.  The anticipation of this release has been surging through the underground community, listeners and bloggers alike.  Having been fortunate enough to receive an early copy, I don’t think there has been a day in the past three weeks that I haven’t played at least half of the album.  During my long commutes home from university, sitting in the standard Los Angeles traffic, this album has played an integral role in me not wanting to roundhouse-kick nearly everybody on the highway while simultaneously throwing hand grenades during my acrobatics.  For that, I thank Moonshine and every artist featured deeply.  ‘Steppin’ Forward’ brings a plethora of new – to Moonshine – talent (Compa, OSC, Numa Crew, Adam Prescott, and Dubsworth, among others)  under the label’s umbrella, which is likely an indication of what us listeners can expect to see in the coming year as far as releases.  I’ve mentioned a couple of my favorite tracks below, but make sure you bag this LP, whether you’re a vinyl or digital head, because each track is top-shelf business.

My absolute favorite off this release is Numa Crew’s ‘Knowledge’.  The swinging halfstep percussion provides perfect avenue for the syncopated collection of delayed vocals and horns to drift in and out of the mix.  The LFO pressure on the sub is immense and injects a lasting amount of energy into the listener with its single bar presence.  Compa’s ‘One Lion’ is another one of my favorites.  It’s spacious aesthetic and rolling bongo hits invoke a seamless listening experience, while the vocal processing adds an element of introspect that always gets my mind moving in the right direction.  The last I’ll mention is Hatti Vatti ft. Cian Finn – ‘Education’.  This one will prove to be a prolific anthem simply due to the profound message of Cian Finn’s vocals.  Everybody, including myself, would be wise to remember these words when in times of defeat or struggle.

Make sure to listen below, as Moonshine has put up clips of the entire album to preview.  I’ve also included links to pre-order (vinyl) or keep your eye on for the release date – March 24th.

MOONSHINE RECORDINGS | PRE-ORDER VINYL | JUNO

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That’s it for today, I’ll catch you soon, fam’.  One love.

– Kinman