Audio Asia Deep: 10 cuts of late summer heat from across the region

Once again we've taken a great deal of pleasure in searching through pages (and pages) of new releases to hunt out the very best in musical output from the fantastically varied artists and labels operating in or connected to the vast Asian continent. And yet again we're happy to report that we've been able to muster an exceptional yield of aural treasure from the deeper side of Asian dance music. Here, we present an eclectic blend from far and wide, including superstars of the scene alongside rising and little-known talents.

Title: Dakar Disco (Kuniyuki Remix)
Artist: Alma Negra
Label: Heist
Release: Out now, you can buy it here

Hokkaido-based sonic professor Kuniyuki serves up a breathtaking remix of 'Dakar Disco' by rhythm kings Alma Negra. Part of an excellent four-track EP from Detroit Swindle's Heist Recordings which is currently flying high in the sales and DJ charts. Unmissable.

Title: Astronomie
Artist: Guillaume & Coutu Dumonts
Label: Mule
Release: Out now, you can buy it here

Japan's go-to Mule Musiq rarely disappoint, and this excellent three-track EP from Berlin-based Canadian Guillaume & Coutu Dumonts brims with subtle class. Featuring Dave Aju in rap mode on the determined groove of 'The Chase', and a cheeky Fela Kuti sample in the dance-making bounce of 'Grand Signal'. Our pick is the deep and dubby late-night excursion of 'Astronomie', but in truth, the whole release is fire.

Title: Delicious Part
Artist: Takecha
Label: Holic Trax
Release: Out now, you can buy it here

Taken from the 'Kansai EP' by Takecha and Holic Trax label boss Tomoki Tamura, which is named after the shared home town of both artists. Much-loved producer Takecha possibly steals the show with the brilliantly named opener 'Delicious Part', with its classic house beats and jazzy refrains. All tracks are excellent though, and already garnering support from the likes of Max Graf and Urulu.

Title: Get Me Some (Soul Clap remix)
Artist: TOKiMONSTA
Label: Young Art
Release: Out now, you can buy it here

TOKiMONSTA continues her excellent series of remixes from recent album 'Oasis Nocturno'. This time, she turns to the ever-reliable Boston-based disco, house, funk alchemists Soul Clap to deliver the goods. Feel-good vibes abound in their lively interpretation of 'Get Me Some', where blissfully eccentric vocals float over a thick bass, string motifs and snappy drums. This one isn't easy to pin down stylistically, but one thing is for absolutely sure, it pops.

Title: Roots Magic
Artist: Akio Nagase
Label: Darker Than Wax
Release: Out now, you can buy it here

Osaka born Akio Nagase has been quietly involved in the Japanese underground for two decades. Apparently someone who likes to operate a little below the radar, he clearly has an ear for quality, as this wonderfully infectious groove proves. Part of a widely varied and difficult to pigeon-hole EP, title track 'Roots Magic' is our pick. Let the piano hook suck you in over a mid-tempo groove, as sax lead soars and spacey pads add to the atmosphere.

Title: The Backstroke
Artist: Rei Harakami
Label: Disk Union
Release: Out now, you can buy it here

Originally released 2001, 'Red Curb' is a delightfully idiosyncratic album of experimental electronica recorded by massively talented Japanese producer Rei Harakami, who sadly passed away aged just 40 in 2011. In his short life, he released nine albums, six singles and two compilation albums, and this certainly represents a highlight from his exceptional output. Remastered and re-issued by Disk Union, this is a chance to own a mesmerising piece of work, including the timeless hypnotic journeys of 'The Backstroke', which still sounds utterly fresh today.

Title: Herbal Riddim
Artist: Ekception
Label: Ekception Music
Release: Out now, you can buy it here

Here's a wild card that's well deserving of his place in this month's list. Bangkok-based DJ and producer Ekception serves up a wonderfully varied and charismatic collection on his new 'Wildlife EP'. Our pick to play here is the driving and percussion-heavy house groove of 'Herbal Riddim'. The fully effective hook is enlivened by funk-synth tickles, which gradually give way to a Luk Thung (Thai country music) inspired monster of an organ solo. The entire EP is varied, well-crafted and definitely worth exploring.

Title: Beyond Aldebaran
Artist: Sheri Vari
Label: Integrity
Release: Out now, you can buy it here

Sheri Vari is most definitely one to watch. The Portuguese producer doesn't appear to crave the limelight that her talent deserves, with a cultured sound that seems informed by the Michigan house and techno heritage but with an unmistakably modern flavour. Dreamy synth work and psychedelic motifs abound in this futurist joy-ride, brought to you courtesy of Singapore's Integrity Recordings.

Title: Can't Get Enough
Artist: Nico Lahs
Label: Adeen
Release: Out now, you can buy it here

Super credible and authentic deep house-related flavours from hugely talented Italian producer Nico Lahs. This is brought to us courtesy of the ever-impressive A&R stylings of Beijing-based bastion of organic US house and techno flavours, Adeen Recordings. More on the way from them, so keep your eyes and ears peeled.

Title: Tamil Slow Jam
Artist: Vedang
Label: All Star Sauce X Ghelo
Release: Out now, you can buy it here

This one comes as part of an intriguing five-track compilation from New Delhi's All Star Sauce and Mumbai label, Ghelo, which aims to shine a light on some of the vibrant electronic sounds emanating from the sub-continent. 'Tamil Slow Jam' comes from Pun-based artist, Vedang, offering a refreshing twist to a traditional Tamil track. Hugely varied release and well worth looking out for.