Berlin-based Rockets Audio delivers a hefty 24-track compilation of minimal house delights.
With forty-odd releases, and several substantial compilations under their belt, Berlin-based label Rockets Audio is reminding us that there is more to the sound of Berlin than the cold, dark and hard techno that we hear so often. Don’t get me wrong; Berlin’s techno, house and club culture is on another level, but even the world’s most revered techno hub can feel monotonous at times, and like all great scenes, it periodically needs a refresher, something to mix things up. As genres constantly meet and converge to create new and innovative styles and trends within the electronic music universe, elements of eclecticism and surprise become more and more invaluable to the advancement of the culture. Rockets Audio’s latest compilation is heavy-handed with these innovative ideas, and celebrates the diversity of modern minimal house in the most eclectic and substantive way possible, two-dozen imaginative tracks from different artists, released as a single package.
The first track on the compilation is a delightful introduction to the musical journey ahead. Imagine Ricardo Villalobos providing the soundtrack to a band of gypsies setting up a circus, and you can somewhat imagine what Atef’s opening track, “Super Store” sounds and feels like. Busy but focused, in a hurry, but not rushed, the groove of this track is infectious and lively, and demonstrates a masterful flow, utilizing sharp and concise cuts from one percussive hit to the next. Mixed and panned to perfection, and gently fluffed with ambient chatter, this track’s level of detail is truly exceptional. Ten and a half minutes of excellence in and we’ve only finished the first tune!
It can be quite hard to decide which tracks to focus in on in my reviews when there are so many quality selections to choose from. That said, Emiliano Martini’s contribution, “Once Upon A Time” feels like uncharted territory. While it’s not the most technically complex track on the compilation, this track is an unusual blend of nostalgic daydreams and unsettling psychosis. From the beginning, a steady, wobbling synth chord triggers distant memories and teases a soulful house anthem that never comes. Instead, funky bass is unleashed and the introductory melody stalls, loops, and creates a dissonant sense of unease. A fuzzy vocal loop gently induces a trance like stupor, and a playful percussive pitter-patter competes for your attention. An expertly placed reversed kick drum just before the seven-minute mark solidifies Martini’s skills as a true master of his craft. Well done, Emiliano Martini.
Another track that absolutely cannot be ignored is from Argentinean producer, Shaped. A dainty bass synth starts things off, wiggling with vibrato like a caterpillar in a scurry. A tasty percussive hit serves as a snare, and an assortment of hi hats build up a serious groove. Eventually, a bit crusher works to bring things down for an epic break, and suddenly we’re back up and running with a glorious burst of tasty rhythms and pads. “Parte 2” will grab your attention from the get go and run away with it. This track is sure to tickle the fancy of any seasoned house music fan if played in the right set and setting.
While I only am breaking down and describing three of the tracks on this fantastic compilation, I can assure you that the release as a whole is worth a listen. From boat parties, to warehouses, this release has all your minimal house music needs covered. There are so many unexpected surprises, new approaches, innovative techniques, and a few references to the past that listening to the compilation in its entirely feels like you just checked out 10+ acts at a top of the line music festival. Rockets Audio, my hat’s off to you, and I look forward to hearing more in the near future. It’s a shame this compilation isn’t on vinyl, but that admittedly would be a ton of wax! A digital download will have to do, so support the artists and label via the bandcamp page, linked below.
-Jeronimo Watson
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