Review: "Smart-155," the latest EP from Poly Chain, is a testament to the incredible talent of Ukrainian composer and DJ Sasha Zakrevska. Following her highly acclaimed Fairy Disco LP, this release presents a powerful collection of cold and calculated electro tracks that will leave you in awe. Poly Chain's sound design, showcased in tracks like 'Iris-T', is reminiscent of the renowned DJ and producer DJ Stingray. The breakneck pace and steely textures create an intense and captivating sonic landscape. As the EP progresses, 'Tryton' and 'Atacms' introduce fluid synth shapes while maintaining the tough and edgy mood established from the beginning. Beyond the impressive craftsmanship and skill showcased in each track, "Smart-155" serves as a commentary on experienced hardship, unwavering hope, and the power of expression through music.
Review: Black Dot provides a compelling addition to Mechatronica's offshoot White sublabel. Building on an exemplary catalogue that already includes Das Ding, Credit 00 and Cardopusher, this EP is sure to delight fans of wave-inspired techno. "Morality of Violence" sets the scene with haunting shrieks unfolding over a low-slung, droning groove and morbid synths. "Black Dot (Version X)" continues that journey into doomy electronics, with an androgynous vocal set to an undulating bass. "Kiss Of The Leaf" sounds like Black Dot has relinquished control of the machines, resulting in a jarring, claustrophobic rhythm. In contrast, "Hatred" is a slow-motion dirge that wouldn't sound out of place on Downwards. The label has commissioned Cardopusher to remix "Black Dot" and he delivers a piledriving, clubby workout.
Review: Maelstrom follows last year's Heat Wave release on Mechatronica with this fine follow-up. The title track revolves around a busy, glitchy rhythm, monstrous subs and a series of smart drops and builds, while on "Lest We Inhale", a similar approach applies, as acidic tones and bleeps are woven into the stop-start rhythm. "Lost Axis" sees Maelstrom wear his Detroit influences in plain sight, with dreamy synth textures fused with a throbbing bass, while on "Never Crash", he strips back his sound again to deliver an acid soaked banger. Closing out this varied release is the cinematic ambience of "Szdet Drops".
We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners who may combine it with other information that you've provided to them or that they've collected from your use of their services.