Generator’s January Playlist: Curated by Senior Programme Coordinator, Adam MacDonald

We’re back with our first playlist of 2025, acting as your one-stop shop for discovering the tracks you need to have on repeat. After asking our Senior Programme Coordinator and resident DJ, Adam MacDonald to curate a playlist, we have a solid collection of recommendations for you. Diving into what sparked his interest in dance music with a nod to the influence of makina through the inclusion of Tike, he’s also included rising jazz collective SwanNek, and breakout artist Akam, who’s currently on our First Notes programme.

If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to find new artists this year, attend our First Notes showcase at The Cluny 2 on January 30th, where you can catch Akam, and a range of talent paving the way for the future of the North East music industry.

Secure your free place here.  

(Image Credit – Generator)

1.‘Body Talk’ – Nectax 

“This track is taken from my favourite releases of 2024, Body Talk, which marked the return of DJ Flight’s legendary label, Play:Musik. Nectax’s future-facing production firmly establishes him as one of the scene’s strongest talents. A nominee for ‘Breakthrough Producer’ at DJ Mag’s 2024 Best of British awards and with the recent announcement of his debut album in 2025, the Newcastle-based producer shows no sign of slowing down.” 

2. ‘Exposing Me’ – Simba Shore 

“An old friend and one of Newcastle’s most talented rappers. This energetic but dark beat is the perfect backdrop for Simba’s lyrical delivery. I’m excited to hear some more music from Simba in 2025.” 

3. ‘Peacock Followed The Hen’ – Frankie Archer 

“One of my favourite tracks from Frankie Archer. The juxtaposition of traditional and electronic music brings me so much joy. The hypnotic vocal textures and smooth bass in this track are incredibly soothing.” 

4. ‘Music for a While’ – Tommy 2000 

“A Durham prodigy now based in London, Tommy 2000 never fails to impress with his stellar production. Released last year on Newcastle’s Shy Bairns label, this track is another example of Tommy’s ever-evolving sound.”

5. ‘Heuristic’ – SwanNek ft Ras Tex 

“Newcastle’s contemporary jazz outfit SwanNek are definitely ones to watch this year. Dreamy, transcendent vocals are paired with SwanNek’s signature rhythmic groove.” 

6.‘Die N Cry’ – Akam ft julian. and Emrld 

“Currently part of our First Notes programme, Akam has impressed me immensely with his music. This track is yet another solid example of Akam’s ability to bridge the gap between hyperpop, rap, and electronic music production. Looking forward to more from Akam in 2025!” 

7. ‘ARMAGEDDON FREESTYLE’ – Ramé Kari 

“Powerful delivery and a beat that’s a head-nodder—what’s not to like?” 

8. ‘running man’ – ERNIE 

“I had this one on repeat over the Christmas break. ERNIE’s music feels deeply personal, and I applaud Joe for sharing it with the world in such a creative way.”

9. ‘Dimensions’ – Tike 

“I couldn’t resist squeezing some Makina into this list. I grew up with this music, and it sparked my early interest in dance music. Whether you like it or not, it plays a huge role in our regional identity. I highly recommend watching this documentary if you’d like to learn more about its importance in the North East.”

10. ‘Barred Spiral Waves’ – Jacklyn 

“One of the brightest stars of the North East, this track is from Jacklyn’s most recent EP, Sonic Waves. It delivers driving and pulsating techno from start to finish.” 

(Image Credit – Generator)

You can listen to the full playlist here. 

Featured image: Adam MacDonald