MAX GRAEF & GLENN ASTRO Magic Johnson 12"

Berliners Max Graef and Glenn Astro make their debut on Ninja Tune with a pair of infectiously danceable jams - the bustling mutant jazz workout "Magic Johnson" and a moodier, sleeker dub on the flip ("Tape Johnson").

Without really trying, the duo have built a sterling reputation for crafting scruffy disco-tinged house bangers and dusty downtempo excursions, releasing independently for the excellent Danish label Tartelet; the OYE Records-affiliated Box Aus Holz imprint; Brandt Brauer Frick's "The Gym"; Space Hardware and WotNot Music. Earlier this year Max and Glenn joined forces to form Money $ex Records - an outlet for outings from their extended family.

The swing is reminiscent of Moodymann and Pépé Bradock on the one hand, but their approach to production is firmly rooted in hip-hop's cut-and-paste aesthetic and a healthy desire to emulate Madlib and J Dilla's grit and rough 'n' ready character. It's worth noting, however, that the duo sample sparingly, instead putting the focus on their own musicianship to create the instantaneous melodies that lie at the heart of their shabby, loveably wonky and instantly likeable dancefloor jam