Why Wedlock's Ganjaman EP Is Still One of Hardcore's Greatest Vinyl Releases

Background

By 1995, Ruffneck Records had firmly established itself as one of the defining labels of the golden age of Dutch hardcore. Rather than relying purely on speed and distortion, the label became known for dark atmospheres, cinematic intros and meticulous production. Ganjaman EP, released by Wedlock in May 1995, perfectly embodies that philosophy with five tracks spanning roughly 18 minutes. 

Wedlock never reached the commercial fame of names like Neophyte or Rotterdam Terror Corps, but among collectors and old-school gabber enthusiasts this EP has earned near-classic status.

Three decades after its release, Ganjaman continues to be one of those records that hardcore fans keep rediscovering. While it never achieved the mainstream recognition of some Ruffneck classics, it has quietly built a reputation as a crate essential among collectors, DJs and long-time fans. 

What stands out in the community is how often "The Tower" is singled out as the EP's defining moment. For many listeners, it's not just the best track on the record—it's one of the greatest productions Patrick van Kerckhoven ever made. Fans praise its unusual blend of hardcore energy, hard trance melodies and techno groove, giving it a timeless quality that still works on modern sound systems. 

Another reason this EP remains so respected is its diversity. Rather than delivering five variations of the same formula, Wedlock explores several corners of the Ruffneck sound. The reggae-infused bounce of "Ganjaman", the industrial tension of "Blue Heat", the hypnotic atmosphere of "The Tower", and the jungle-inspired "North, South, East, West" showcase a producer willing to push beyond the typical gabber template. 

Even today, comments from fans are remarkably consistent. Some call it the first Ruffneck record that made them fall in love with the label. Others mention listening to "The Tower" almost daily or instantly adding the record to their Discogs wantlist after discovering it years later. One recurring sentiment sums it up perfectly:

"Still a banger."

Perhaps that's the highest compliment a hardcore record can receive after more than thirty years.

Some records define a moment.

Others outlive it.

Wedlock's Ganjaman EP does both. It captures Ruffneck Records during one of its most creative periods while sounding surprisingly fresh decades later. Whether you're a DJ looking for tracks that still move a dancefloor or a collector hunting for one of the label's finest releases, this EP earns its reputation with every spin.