Review: 2020 was a particularly difficult year for electronic music, with clubs worldwide shuttered, but as the latest compilation from ARTS demonstrates, the techno community has no shortage of creative energy. This ingenuity and creativity is audible in all areas, with Rave Culture platforming new and established artists. MRD and Alfredo Mazzilli both deliver pulsating electronic bangers, while Raar's "Collider" is a moody break beat affair. At the other end of the spectrum, label owner Emmanuel's "Camouflage" is a rave-influenced peak-time roller and I Hate Models drops the stomping but atmospheric "Intergalactic Emotional Breakdown", while other established names, Benjamin Damage and ASC, deliver forceful, musical workouts.
Review: This may be MRD's debut release, but it's still an unforgettable EP. The title track is a pumping, pulsating affair that resounds to a lean electronic bass and hushed vocal samples - the overall track sounds like a pumped up, techno take on electroclash. On "Oslo", this emerging producer channels the spirit of classic trance, overlaying dreamy melodies against the backdrop of pounding kicks, while on "Lost Friends" he utilises a different proposition and drops pounding tribal drums as the basis for tranced out hooks. "Full Clip" sees an even darker approach, as a breakneck rhythm underpins dark riffs that burn with dark intent.