Reports
Reports
Posthuman - Cranker
Posthuman's contributions to the acid genre and underground dance music are staggering. Their latest limited-run record, Cranker, showcases exactly why. The record features the wickedly squelchy 'Acid Cranker' and the housey piano stabs track 'Stab Cranker', incorporating classically twinged vocal chops. This release exemplifies Posthuman's talent for creating feel-good dance music.
Roberto Auser - Data Desire Disorder
Roberto Auser's latest release, Data Desire Disorder, on Dalmata Daniel, showcases a transformation in sound, replicating the crispy analogue sound of old 1980s beat tapes. The EP captures the bold and free-spirited nature of the early 1980s bedroom wave music, providing a nostalgic yet innovative musical journey. The lo-fi, mechanical-inspired music, limited frequencies, and compressed percussion contribute to the EP's authentic retro vibe. Auser's creative approach and self-imposed limitations give the tracks a unique and special quality, offering a glimpse into the innovative ideas of early synthesiser pioneers while maintaining a contemporary twist.
SHXCXCHCXSH - DO
The Swedish duo SHXCXCHCXSH, known for their innovative 'organic techno' style, continues to push new ground with their latest release, DO. Their gradual introduction of industrial-inspired production and glitchy rhythms that add aggression and darkness to their tracks, along with rhythmic vocal experiments, showcases their commitment to pushing new aesthetics in techno. The EP shows promise and hints at the duo's potential for future vocal experiments. SHXCXCHCXSH's innovative approach remains inspiring and intriguing, and fans eagerly await their future releases.
Eva808 - LET'S BE HAVIN U?
Eva808's latest release, LET'S BE HAVIN U? is a rebellious blend of comedic defiance and cutting-edge sound design. The title track features aggressive energy with a haunting sample and intense instrumentation. In contrast to other tracks that delve into sludgier, experimental sounds, this track showcases Eva808's refusal to adhere to traditional norms. The release is a refreshing departure from the ordinary, echoing the rule-breaking ethos of tear-out dubstep pioneers from the past decade.
Pavel Milyakov - Euphoric Visions
The struggle as an electronic music fan is to go beyond EDM and not equate electronic music solely with big dance music. Euphoric Visions by Pavel Milyakov captures bone-chilling loneliness and evokes deep emotions not often heard throughout EDM. The collaboration with Richie Culver stands out, creating a haunting and dramatic ambience. The EP effectively explores the human condition, making it a compelling listen for anyone interested in how electronic music can deeply connect with emotions.
Sleep 300 - Julienne
The New York-based label Kshack has impressed me with its quality art style and diverse sound palette. Kshack's third release, Julienne by Sleep 300, features 3D-focused music and experimentation with minimalism, creating a unique and impactful sound. The tracks showcase playful interaction with space and intricate sound design, making the EP perfect for club play. Overall, "Julienne" is an engaging and head-spinning release that shouldn't be overlooked.
Kris Baha - Breathe
Kris Baha, an Australian-Italian-Armenian talent, has evolved his musical style from slow-burning EBM-infused techno to a hyper-bombastic, cyber-goth sound in his latest release, Breathe. The EP features raw yet polished production with aggressive 4x4 beats and a combination of 90s cyber-goth, Matrix hardcore, Blade rave, and Ultraviolet trance elements. Although the music represents a blend of past styles, Kris Baha has perfected his sound while breathing new life into his music.
Lundin Oil - Exploit Divisions
Anthony Linell's Northern Electronics label has been praised for its unique and high-quality electronic music. The label's latest release, Lundin Oil's Exploit Division, ventures into drone ambient and experimental realms, showcasing both innovative and challenging tracks. While some songs are critiqued for lacking depth compared to others on the album, the overall work delves into themes of energy misuse and global warming. The album experiments with morphing textures, providing an intense and thought-provoking listening experience while pushing the boundaries of drone and ambient music within the Northern Electronics sound family.
Aquarian, Hodge - Split 2
The second instalment of the TraTarTrax Split Series features a collaboration between Hodge and Aquarian, resulting in a thrilling "split" record. Aquarian showcases his mastery of underground music, blending heavy atmospheric techno with breakbeat vigour in 'Kool Ranch FM'. Meanwhile, Hodge brings UK flavour to 'Head Drop', combining old-school garage and grime with a funky house groove. Both tracks promise to energise the dance floor with their impressive speed and attitude.
Ghost Dubs - Damaged
The Ghost Dubs project by Michael Fiedler explores eerie atmospheres and rumbling sub-textures, incorporating vintage techniques and emphasising mechanical elements. The music includes dub reggae and dub techno elements, with innovative percussive hits and effects that evoke the sounds of Kingston, Jamaica. Damaged pays tribute to dub music with an updated take on the genre as the Ghost Dubs project incorporates experimental sounds of downtempo and dark ambient, creating a dark, powerful, and immersive listening experience.