Italian producer Feral returns with four exceptional tracks of pitch-black modern dub techno.
Deep, dark, acidic techno with a heavy dub influence, Feral’s latest EP, titled Absolute Zero, is not for the faint of heart. Much like his previous releases, this sinister sound will have you questioning reality. Feral’s music is the ideal soundtrack for a séance and this release is no exception.
The opening track “Resin” is a hyper-detailed, highly visceral experience with cutting-edge sound design that will send shivers down your spine. Smoke machines and lasers could definitely accentuate this song in a live setting, but they aren’t at all necessary. The eerie atmosphere and sporadic percussion are more than enough to keep you thoroughly engaged throughout the song’s entirety.
The second offering, “Gamma Ray”, is a bubbly delight, but remains just as dark as the first. An unnerving synth lead playfully builds upon itself, sounding like an over-boiling witch’s caldron. The textures are so rich and plentiful in this tune that they can almost be felt. If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to dim the lights.
Next is the true standout track of this release, “Bolide”. Fully modernized acid synth leads stretch and bounce around the listener, and a fun and infectious groove starts to take hold. This track is heavily introspective, but not monotonous, due to its dub techno inspired delays and wide spread panning, which go a long way to breathe life into this mix. While this song won’t likely have you dancing your heart out, it can certainly stimulate your mind while keeping your body locked in a steady groove.
Lastly is the bleak and stripped down “Snag”, which might be the darkest yet. A soft and fuzzy static background fills in the empty space, while delicate hi-hats and shakers resemble foreboding whispers. This track sounds like you are scuba diving on the ocean floor and your flashlight’s battery has just run out. It takes for a perfectly desolate and ominous closer, ideal for bringing this journey to an end.
Grab a digital download of this release from Mental Modern’s Bandcamp on June 11th, or treat yourself to a limited 12″ pressing while supplies last.
-Jeronimo Watson
Pre-order here: Bandcamp
Preview here: Soundcloud
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