As long as a track’s foundation is constructed well enough to get you to dance, whatever melody, sample, or texture is laid on top should merely accentuate, or better yet, enhance the rhythm. Hannover-based artist “dxrvo” delivers this sensibility in Vocally EP, released on Barcelona label PRX Records.
Dxrvo enjoys many creative pursuits; producing techno is only one of them. From fashion and photography, to studying architecture, it’s hardly any wonder as to how he has acquired the attention to detail needed to make cutting-edge tracks that stand out in today’s fast-paced musical landscape. His latest EP, titled “Vocally” on Barcelona based label, PRX, is a no-nonsense, poignant addition to his steadily growing discography.
When looking for music to cover for my weekly music review, “Vocally” made a serious impression. Within a matter of seconds, the fast pace, big bass, and overall clean and tidy production had me hooked right away. There is no prolonged intro or grandiose build up to tease me into the first track “Echo,” a track featuring dxrvo’s friend and frequent collaborator Brandyy. Instead, I was instantly transported to the climax of an epic night out, one that felt familiar, yet existing somewhere in my imagination, the peak of what I might describe as my ideal party. Fast, with a little bit of grit, this style of techno is abundant throughout much of Germany, including the city of Hannover, in which dxrvo resides. That said, this release is hardly something only a seasoned techno enthusiast could get behind. Rather, the purity and simplicity of these tracks may even bring with it a certain level of crossover appeal that could get an uptight friend to let loose and enjoy a night out.
If there is a theme to this EP, it would be dxrvo’s frequent use vocal chops; brief, fragmented voices that are played rhythmically like a drum. Each composition is named after the sound each voice is making, such as the second track “Ahh,” or the third and final “Yeah.” With tracks like these, less is more and complex sound design isn’t necessarily beneficial and can even distract from an otherwise infectious groove. As long as a track’s foundation is constructed well enough to get you to dance, whatever melody, sample, or texture is laid on top should merely accentuate, or better yet, enhance the rhythm.
Dxrvo’s stripped back approach to his productions masterfully encapsulates this sensibility, and results in a raw and pure, hard-hitting flavor of techno that satisfies on a primal level.
Vocally EP is now available on PRX Records’ bandcamp page, linked above. Support both the artist and label with a digital download, and look forward to more great releases from dxrvo.
-Jeronimo Watson
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