Dinky At Juno Download

Review: Last seen on Ostgut Ton back in 2011, the wonderfully monikered Dinky resurfaces on Visionquest with the Fallen Angel EP which precedes the release of Dimension D, her fifth studio album which has been mixed and co-produced by Matthew Styles. Visionquest press notes claim the forthcoming long player sees the Chilean DJ, producer and vocalist evolve into a fully fledged singer-songwriter and performer, which makes Dimension D a perfect fit for the label. As a taste of what's to come, "Fallen Angel" excels, with Iglesias's ethereal vocal the perfect foil for the dark, rippling techy groove. Kudos to Visionquest for the remixes too, with the aforementioned Styles further finessing the original's darker intricacies whilst Pepe Bradock completely rewires proceedings in his own inimitable style.

Review: The German-Chilean producer and the label arm of techno Valhalla Berghain seem like uneasy bedfellows, so does signing Dinky herald a new direction for Ostgut? On the evidence of "Take Me", it does. The title track starts with breathy chords and loose, organic drums, before giving way to jazzy, filtered riffs and then moves into an undulating electronic disco groove. "Polvo" is of a similar summery disposition: filled with sensuous vocal samples and sassy Rhodes keys, it is underpinned by the same kind of loose beats as the title track. It's far removed from the world of chisel-jawed techno and suggests that Ostgut may be mellowing out.

Review: Visionquest and Dinky? We can't say it's a partnership we were expecting. "Teka" kicks of the Time To Lose It EP with bubbling vocal pockets, tight-tapping drums and a solid house/tech groove. "This Is Your Heart" on the flip is a playground of percussive rhythm and Dinky's expertise shines bright; smooth, punchy, warm yet spiky. "Time To Lose It" is the real killer, however, as it demonstrates something unexpected from both parties. Ethereal double tracked vocals, intricate, ambient electronic touches swaying in the background... it's pure headphone fodder and a surprising (but oh so welcome) addition from party kings Visionquest and Dinky herself, as a well known ambassador of dark, tumbling techno. Recommended.