Far Away (Dimension mix) - (7:53)
132 BPM Channel Z (Optic Nerve mix) - (5:09) 132 BPM
Techno Programming (instrumental mix) - (5:30) 132 BPM
Techno Programming (Strand mix) - (5:25) 132 BPM
Review: Soma celebrates its 600th release with a debut on the label from Optic Nerve aka Keith Tucker. This side project is focused more on deep techno than Tucker's signature electro sound as Aux 88, and Far Away is a mesmerising trip through Detroit sounds. The title track, with its hissing percussion and spaced out synth lines, provides the basis for ponderous vocals, while on "Channel Z", Tucker fuses rolling 808s with frosty pads and a snaking bass. "Techno Programming" is the most club-centred groove, with a menacing low end and dubbed out claps at its centre, while Motor City act Strand inject some machine-led soul into their version of "Techno Programming".