Hard Target Records has been launched by Clouds and Tommy Holohan, who are collaborating under the name Hard Target to explore early breakbeat hardcore and 2000s trance from their unique techno-based perspective. Their debut EP, Echoes, includes a track called Idol Sound, which is a nod to the lesser-known neuro drum ‘n’ bass sound from the early 2000s, and also Roadblock (Rush Me), an old-school hardcore track infused with vocal hooks from early 90s London pirate radio adverts. Pluto (On a Trip II) features exhilarating breakdowns and groove. Samples from the track have been used to tie all four tracks on the EP together.
Clouds and Holohan met for the first time in 2015 and quickly realised they had a mutual passion for similar styles of music. They collaborated on impromptu b2b sets at venues such as La Cheetah and Sub Club in Glasgow and gradually developed their own sound. The Hard Target project allowed them to experiment with different ideas and influences and to push the boundaries of what they had been exploring with Clouds.
Echoes by Hard Target is available now via Hard Target Records. The aim of the project is to capture the spirit of the early rave scene, which was all about making music that was exciting and different. It’s a no-holds-barred approach to music-making, and they’re not worried about making things that are unconventional or unexpected.
Clouds’ Calum said that he and Tommy wanted to challenge themselves with different sounds and ideas, without having to worry too much about what others might think. From his perspective, it felt like the early days of the electronic dance music scene, where anything goes, and people were experimenting with new sounds all the time. Meanwhile, Holohan is excited to be working with some of the best musicians in the industry, and he’s learned a lot from their advice and feedback
Read the full article from Mixmag here: Read More