Various Artists – ONI Various Artists, Vol. 2 (ONI Recordings) [June 22, 2021]

Istanbul based label ONI Recordings celebrates its one year anniversary with their second various artists compilation.

ONI Recordings run by Danny Wabbit is a newly emerging Techno label based in Istanbul, Turkey that is ready to get noticed. After a year of solid releases and podcasts, their recent various artist compilation is here to elevate ONI to the next level. Rapidly growing from their first 5-track compilation, their latest offering features 13 quality tunes with a more refined and sophisticated sound.

Right off the bat, French producer H.mess transports us into a late night jungle soirée with his introductory tune “Ferost.” Sounds of cicadas and exotic birds set the mood, meandering around a simple kick pattern and gentle repeating bass tone, when suddenly the call of a howler monkey echoes its way in. Simple but potent, this song sets a definite mood yet offers a differing, outdoor aesthetic compared to the other tracks to come.

While each of these tracks is worthy of an in-depth breakdown and analysis, another track that truly stands out is Masseran’s hypnotic contribution “Sambei.” Reminiscent of much of Nina Kraviz’s Trip Recordings discography, this tune perfectly executes the fast paced, mesmerizing sound that is widely referred to as hypnotic techno. Let the hypnosis take hold as the gentle chime loop slides its way in and out with just enough variation to keep you locked in. The percussion in this track, though uniform and concise, truly sets this track over the edge, making it irresistibly danceable.

Though it pains me to skip over so many exceptional tracks, another truly strong contender on this compilation is JSPRV35’s refreshing addition “Dune Drive.” This track isn’t the only offering on this compilation that tastefully incorporates a typically house oriented synth line into their techno, Kevin Ferhati’s “A GLITCH IN THE MATRIX” expertly juxtaposes a more traditional house lead with a sporadic techno analog synth melody, however JSPRV35’s contribution is a perfectly balanced and concise techno composition with a classic deep house flavor. Percussion, vocal loop, delayed stab and a deep bass line is all that this track needs and the result is an infectious groove that can simultaneously elevate a house set, and cool down an upbeat techno set. Versatile, fairly simple and very groovy, it is always enjoyable to hear producers blend the lines between genres, and JSPRV35 did just that.

Each track on ONI Recordings’ latest compilation offers something a little bit different, as no two tunes sound the same. On par with releases on well-established major labels, this compilation is a grand achievement for a label as young as ONI and their growth over the last year is nothing short of impressive. Keep an eye out for each of these talented producers, and grab a digital download of ONI’s Various Artists, Vol. 2 from their bandcamp.

-Jeronimo Watson

Link – Bandcamp

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