Blackrod is a label project from Hungary ran by Depthon and that has started off on it’s adventure strongly having included artists contributions from Hans Bouffmyhre, MTD, TWR72, Robert S (PT).
The newest edition of its catalogue has been put together by Michel Lauriola who is Venezuelan, and now living in Argentina. Michel been on our radar for some time now, having also done DTMIX119. His constant supply of quality masterpieces have hit labels such as Animal Farm, Affekt, Counter Pulse, Unknown Territory and Quant, and for the Scales EP we also see Takaaki Itoh who is another superb artist from Japan completing the release with the sole remix.
The first track “Smooth” is a raw and hypnotic onslaught. Building with a powerful rage and howling tones it’s a strong lead with an attitude. Takaaki Itoh‘s remix is more laid back and spaced out to begin with, but it morphs into a more punchy and slightly aggressive angle, which makes it a real trip. “Maze” uses a wall of heart melting bass under a dry kick to engulf your ears before adding some enchanting metallic accents that really set this monster and take it to new heights. The final track “Scales” uses an experimental broken beat style to add some funk, whilst a menacing vibe slowly rises and seems like it’s bursting with energy from every direction.
This EP is for the release techno heads… strong structures, dark feelings, and serious production skill combine for an immense mental workout, where fans of labels such as PoleGroup would be very at home.
- Reviewed by Jack! Who? for deathtechno.com
