“Surkit (Ben Long & Oliver Way feat. Jon Dixon Remix)” by Reel By Real is taken from “Surkit – Remixed & Remastered” EP out on EPM Music / Yoyaku on 16th of May (Spotify Only) 23rd of May 2025 (Vinyl).
Reel By Real’s “Surkit” is a Detroit Techno classic that has gained mythical status since it first appeared on a limited white label release on Juan Atkins’ Metroplex offshoot, Interface in 1990. Giving a spotlight back to this highly sought after 12″ EPM are pleased to team up with French vinyl specialists, Yoyaku and present this timeless record, remastered and remixed for 2025.
In keeping with the track’s early Detroit roots we feature remixes from Motor City legends Keith Tucker (a.k.a. DJ-K1) and Strand, with added dubplate pressure provided by DnB lynchpin, Calibre. Further remix support also comes from a UK-Detroit triumvirate of EPM’s Oliver Way and Ben Long (Space DJz) and Jon Dixon (UR).
Detroit techno veteran Martin Bonds a.k.a. Reel By Real remains one the city’s most under the radar yet influential Detroit Techno producers. Often uncredited when it comes to the history, he was a frequent collaborator with the Belleville Three (Juan Atkins / Kevin Saunderson / Derrick May) and you might recall him from the classic Marty Hardy mixes on KMS. However, it was in 1993 that “Surkit” was to have a profound impact on the Drum n Bass scene when LTJ Bukem lifted the main synth line from the track and used it on his game-changing “Atlantis (I Need You)”. Again uncredited, Martin Bonds’ production craft helped to spearhead the UK “liquid” scene that put Bukem front and centre.
Now it’s time to put Reel By Real back under the lights as we celebrate this Detroit Techno masterpiece. With a fresh remaster for today’s dance floors by Lad @ Caduceus Studios on both the 1990 original and 1991 remix, we also present 5 remixes to add extra shine on this glorious gem.
As the man behind Puzzlebox Records, Optic Nerve, DJ-K1, Alien FM and former member of Aux88, Keith Tucker should need little introduction to anyone with an interest in Detroit Techno and Electro. Here he teams up with Strand (the Detroit group comprised of Brian Bonds (Martin’s brother), Brian Boyer and Kech Harrington) to deliver three faithful remixes that keep the original’s deep Detroit spirit burning bright.
Northern Ireland’s Dominick Martin, better known as Calibre is highly regarded for his influence on the liquid funk style of drum and bass, which was partially named after his distinct production style. So in keeping with the tracks double genre influence he gets his hands on “Surkit”, but this time, takes a turn into UK Garage territory with a mix of 2-Step sonic brilliance.
Finally EPM’s Oliver Way,
Ben Long (Space DJz) and
Jon Dixon get their hands dirty with a dark and tough techno excursion that crowns this homage to one of techno’s most under-acknowledged greats.
“The title “Surkit” was a play on the name of the synth patch (“circuit”) that I programmed/edited in the Kawai sound module used for the topline in the track. I am impressed with the production and mastering of all the remixes, and the remastering of the original tracks on this upcoming release. Many thanks to EPM & Yoyaku for approaching me with the concept and making it come to fruition.” Martin Bonds / Reel by Real
Artist: Reel By Real
Title: Surkit – Remixed & Remastered
Label: EPM Music / Yoyaku
Format: Vinyl / Digital
Catalogue No: EPMYYKV2501
Released: 23 May 2025 (Vinyl)
Track Listing:
1. 1990 Original Version (Remastered 2025)
2. Keith Tucker v Strand ‘Circuitry’ Remix
3. Keith Tucker v Strand ‘DIODE Reprise’ Remix
4. Calibre Remix
5. Ben Long & Oliver Way feat. Jon Dixon Remix
6. 1991 I-102 Version (Remastered 2025)
7. Keith Tucker v Strand ‘Surkit’ Reprise (Digital Only)
Stay tuned to the Techno Trip Tracks of the Week selection and Listen to Reel By Real’s new music first
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