The electronic music landscape was dominated by high-stakes legal battles and historic chart milestones this week. Industry heavyweight Steve Aoki is currently navigating a class-action lawsuit linked to his MetaZoo partnership, while Calvin Harris secured a major legal victory, winning a $13.5 million settlement in a dispute with his former business manager.
Beyond the courtroom, pop icon Robyn shared her unfiltered thoughts on Elon Musk, labeling him “tacky,” and Splice released its forecast for the genres set to define 2025. Meanwhile, legendary pop group ABBA reached a new peak in their storied career, claiming their first-ever No. 1 on a Billboard dance chart as Gold: Greatest Hits ascended to the top of the Dance Albums category.
To soundtrack your weekend, here are the essential new releases from the world of dance.
Skrillex – Kora
With his latest three-track EP, Kora, Skrillex pivots toward the atmospheric. Featuring contributions from Whitearmor and swedm®, this eight-minute journey prioritizes texture over the traditional rave energy of his earlier work. It is an experimental, fluid project that rewards deep listening; high-fidelity headphones are a must to catch the intricate sound design and Skrillex’s own understated vocal contributions. Kora is available now via OWSLA/Atlantic.
Slayyyter – “Dance…”
Electropop provocateur Slayyyter delivers a hypnotic club anthem with “Dance.” Infusing French touch sensibilities with a dark, pulsing rhythm, she captures the cathartic necessity of the dancefloor. The track is accompanied by a visually striking music video that blends high-fashion aesthetics with a gritty, cinematic edge.
Crankdat – “Movement”
Ohio’s Crankdat continues his ascent as a dominant force in bass music with “Movement.” This high-intensity dubstep heater—featuring vocals from Linney—has already made waves across social media and arrives officially today on his own imprint, Crank It Up! Records.
Illenium, Bastille & Dabin – “Feel Alive”
In anticipation of his upcoming album Odyssey, Illenium teams up with Bastille and Dabin for “Feel Alive.” It is a quintessential anthem that marries cinematic future bass swells with soaring, emotive vocals. The track’s release coincides with the reveal of a massive 19-song tracklist for the album, featuring high-profile collaborations with Kid Cudi and Bring Me the Horizon.
Shimza & Elderbrook – “Falling”
South African maestro Shimza joins forces with UK producer Elderbrook for “Falling.” This Afro house gem balances intricate, organic percussion with expansive synth work, creating a track that feels both intimate and grand. “Falling” is out now via Helix Records.
Flight School – “Up2Night”
Canadian outfit Flight School delivers a driving electro-house cut with “Up2Night.” Featuring the evocative vocals of Gigi Russ, the track’s relentless momentum is tailor-made for peak-hour sets. The single is available now through Palm Tree Records.
