fabric's SELECTS VIII: A Broken Beat Revival Worth Tuning Into

The latest compilation showcases the enduring appeal of broken beat.

Told by Casey Vale · 27 August 2026

fabric Records continues to explore the elastic boundaries of electronic music with its eighth edition of the SELECTS compilation, this time diving into the often-overlooked realm of broken beat. A genre that has seen its demise declared countless times, broken beat's revival is now captured in ten tracks that blend syncopated rhythms with the harmonic language of '70s jazz, funk, and fusion.

Opening with Donsurf's 'The Model', listeners are greeted with warm, jazzy chords that set a reflective tone. Streeton's 'Ginko Dub' follows, layering rich percussion and Latin-inspired rhythms, showcasing the soulful side of the compilation. On the grittier end, Ben Hauke’s 'Love This' offers tougher textures, while D’Monk’s 'Daza' creates a sizzling groove with its crisp claps and heavy basslines.

The compilation also features contributions from key figures in the genre’s history, including Bugz in the Attic's Mark Force and Afronaut, who deliver a dense, percussive arrangement in 'Carnival (AfroForce Vox Dub)'. However, the absence of influential voices like IG Culture and Kaidi Tatham raises questions about the representation of foundational artists in this sonic landscape.

Ultimately, SELECTS VIII embodies the spirit of broken beat — a genre that thrives on the friction between styles, where jazz meets club culture and live instrumentation dances with electronic sounds. It’s a celebration of lineage and innovation, inviting listeners to experience the warmth of its vibrant past while looking forward to its future.