The Is It Balearic? boys, Timm and Ampo, had a bumper 2023. Every month seemed to bring a new 12, or LP. They released music from Dr. Bronzer, Chris Coco, Das Komplex, Statues, and collaborated with The Woodentops’ Rolo McGinty, for the roof-raising Marijuana. As Coyote, the pair produced long-players, not just for their own label, but also squeezed in a super set, I Hear A New World, for Brighton’s Higher Love Recordings. Their Magic Wand offshoot issued a special, that contained the wonderful Western Revolution, which was another big, big hit around here.

Super selections and wonderful words by Timm & Ampo, aka Coyote, bosses at Is It Balearic?

TIMM

Creation Rebel / This Thinking Feeling

OnU Sound’s style is always a winner, and to hear prince Far-I always a joy.

Caserta /  Flowers

NY basement style house with an absolute killer sample.

Hoodie x James K / Scorpio

Moody Massive attack-esque breakbeat soul. Baseline of the year.

Be.Lanuit  / El Malagueño

Authentico Gypsy Balearic bombing. A killer poolside drifter.

Prince Fatty / 100 Weight of Collie Weed

New heavyweight version of an all-timer. 

Mutabaruka / One of Dem Days

Wiseness from the boss.

The Rutan / Whitey

Lovely chuggy house roller with great sample and some lovey acid.

AMPO

Nathan Dawidowicz / Idea’s Eve 

Tune of the year for me – didgeridoos, acid, psychedelic, delayed bongos, ancient chants, dub metal drums, atmospheric, cosmic, and 11 minutes long. Ace 

Heart People / In Your Eyes

A very addictive bass groove, matching guitar line, a repetitive beauty with simple natural drums, acoustic strums and ethereal vocals. Pinchy & Friends is a top label.

Space Ghost / New World Energy (Ambient Mix)

A warm wash of arpeggios, water FX, and sax. Lovely sunset ambient.

Pejzaz / Fata Morgana

Funk breaks, flutes, ethno vocals, Baltic beats, equals the perfect post sunset lift. 

Aspetuck / Tart Jam 

An addictive mellow acid dancefloor groove from one of my favourite labels, Telomere.

Under Allt / Paradise 

Swedish class from Dan Lissvik and crew. Beautiful and atmospheric.

Sordid Sound System / Sharawadji 

I’m a big fan of sordid Sound System. This is atmospheric ambient dub at its best. Love it.