Review: This is the second outing for Xinner aka Robotron on ESP, and follows 2018's debut, Dream Resonator. Sitting somewhere between electro, techno and industrial, it's an impressive follow-up that showcases his considerable talent. "Exodus" resounds to tough 808s but also features airy synths woven around the robust rhythm. "Kamchatkan" also favours an off centre approach to the dance floor. Built on a minimal, stepping rhythm, its sweeping synth lines are combined with warbling acid that transports the listener to a tripped out electro space that's redolent of Transparent Sound and the catalogue of late 90s underground labels like Groove Pleasure.
Review: Xinner has put out Eps for Phonica and Gifted Culture, but Dream Resonator is his first outing as Robotron. In fact, ESP Institute is so taken with his new alias that they refer to him as 'the machine formerly known as Xinner'. Machines still loom large on this release: "Ice" is a raw sounding electro cut, with old school drums crashing in over repetitive hooks and melodic synth lines. On the title track, Robotron sets his sights on a more dance-floor friendly approach. The groove has a pulsating, squelchy feeling and the synth hooks sit somewhere between classic Italo and Legowelt's dreamy West Coast sensibilities.
Review: Although the phrase 'rings of Saturn' will be forever associated with Jeff Mills' benchmark album of that name, S Moreira & Xinner do a good job of providing an alternative view of the cosmos on Phonica's latest release. The pair favours a less dramatic approach than the Detroit artist, but their release is still reflective and esoteric. The title track sees a stripped, metallic rhythm evolve from dreamy textures, while jazzy keys noodle their way over the sparse drums of "Orbiting Around". Best of all though is "Communication Breakdown", where hypnotic electronic sequences seep through a robust framework of doubled-up claps and staccato drums.
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