Various Artists – IKDRGLNN (Bazovoe Techno) [May 5, 2021]

Bazovoe Techno (Базовое Техно) premieres a future classic on HATE in lead of their upcoming vinyl-only compilation.

Bazovoe Techno, or ‘”азовое Техно,” which translates to “Basic Techno,” is a far-from-basic newly emerging label and event series based in St. Petersburg, Russia. Each of their previous releases have been exceptional. From their quality production, to their exploration of the genre, the young label promises consistent growth and progression toward a bright future ahead.

For this label, what’s truly valued is the quality of sound and shared ethos expressed in the music, as there is a plethora of artists that have contributed to their releases thus far. These artists, which typically include only a single track per release at a time, not only have their music signed to the label, but are at some point additionally welcomed in as either guests or resident DJs for their local party circuit of the same name, an added show of faith and tangible investment in those who make up their roster, setting an example for how other labels can also cultivate and nurture a healthy and vital rave scene. What makes their latest offering, IKDRGLNN, such a desirable record, however, is its dynamism.

Right off the bat, Croatia’s own producer/DJ, Insolate, sets the mood for a large warehouse extravaganza with her grand and boisterous track “Devil’s Ring”. Sure to get the dance floor moving, the track is simultaneously lively and moody, and best served on a massive soundsytem in a large warehouse. Speaking of massive, wait until you hear Keyser’s instant classic “Anticipation.” This track checks all of the boxes for what you would want out of a big sounding techno anthem. While its foundation is adequately dark and driving for most techno sets, the hook of this song is oozing with nostalgic, transcendent, raw emotion, and is bursting with color. This track is truly beaming with energy and may even evoke a few tears. Experience all of that, and the release is only just getting started.

Dawn Razor’s contribution “Persimmon” is a perfect blend of techno and trance. Psychedelic and ethereal, the fastest song on the release blasts off with vibrant textures and an overall blissful feel. Busy with flailing synth lines and a tight, syncopated drumbeat, this track has the potential to induce hallucinations.

On the other side of the record is the tough and aggressive, yet symphonic track “Most Unnatural” by Georgian artists Greenbeam & Leon. Much harsher than the previous three, and in some ways an amalgamation of them all, this track starts off gritty and daunting, but evolves into something more melodic and cohesive than expected. A bit-crushed talking bass steals the show, grossly disregarding any and all tropes, and playfully juxtaposes their unexpected swell of gorgeous orchestral sweeps. The cleverness and originality of this track is further revealed with each and every consecutive listen, and helps bring the record to its climax. But the journey isn’t over.

Dynamism is often a key ingredient for any record that a DJ might deem a “weapon,” and can make an already excellent record significantly more appealing to a skilled DJ. When an album has that one track that is a total refresher and takes a drastic turn away from the rest of the release, it can lead to incredible surprises during a set, moments the crowd nor the DJ will soon forget.

Long-time Berghain resident Norman Nodge’s contribution “Elefantito” is an entirely different approach to techno than the previous four tracks, utilizing a much more slick and mellow sound to take you into the late night. A mumbled, pitched-down voice repeats and meanders, while a pulsating church organ steadily rises. The real beauty of this track however is its rhythmically dense and cohesive use of percussion that only a true expert could accomplish. Shakers, high-hats, delayed kick drums, all ebb and flow in effortless unison. In some ways, this track is the most simple, but the layers of depth and detail are there for you to dive deeply into if you’re willing to let it take you. This song would particularly resonate well with an audience outside during the sunrise, either to close out a party, or transition into an entirely different musical direction.

IKDRGLNN is a record you will want for your collection. The level of expertise on display by each of the featured artists is undeniable and promises a bright future for the collective voices that make up Bazovoe Techno. Be sure to purchase this weapon soon, as it is a vinyl-only release and quantity is very limited.

-Jeronimo Watson

Link – www.decks.de/track/various_artists-ikdrglnn/chz-e3

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