Spain’s Senoid Recordings makes an epic comeback with label head Kike Pravda’s latest “Aerial” EP.
For most labels, a year and a half of no releases might draw concern, but for fans of Kike Pravda and his Senoid imprint, the long wait isn’t a bug but a feature. Since its first release back in 2012, Senoid has only put out a handful of EPs. Each addition to the label’s discography has garnered more and more support from some of the most acclaimed DJs in techno, including Chris Liebing, DVS1, and local LA legends, Truncate and Drumcell, to name a few. Word of a new release from Senoid has increasingly become synonymous with high quality, a rare treat for techno enthusiasts, and Kike Pravda’s latest “Aerial” EP is no exception.
The first track, “Edge of Infinity,” might just be an instant classic. A full-bodied, tastefully distorted kick drum sets the pace at a whopping 133 beats per minute. Pravda wastes no time delivering the goods and immediately teases the hook. Gradually, an arpeggiated lead unravels into chaos, panning out of control and bursting with raw energy. This truly impactful track is a dance floor destroyer, perhaps setting the new standard for modern peak-time techno.
While “Edge of Infinity” is certainly a tough track to follow, the title track, “Aerial”, maintains the same high energy. A syncopated bass line creates an irresistible groove that further builds momentum. Gritty, pulsating static noises sound remarkably clean and clear, yet completely disorienting. Airy textures swarming overhead never seem to relent, and we’re only half way through.
The buzzing, jarring sound design of “Aerial” seamlessly carries over to the third track, “Orbiter”, where the record begins to take on a more hypnotic sonic aesthetic. Through the thick cloudy textures emerges a twinkling melody composed of bright synthetic chimes. Soon, the melody breaks down, dissolving into a short, heavily delayed loop that relentlessly pummels you, drilling into your brain and ravaging your psyche. When the beat drops, the melody reemerges, returning in full glory to bring you and the track to a climax.
Kike Pravda’s seventh release on Senoid is a glorious addition to his consistently exceptional discography. Though releases on Senoid are far too seldom for eager techno fans like myself, each EP has been well worth the wait. Support the artist and label with either a digital download, or by purchasing a physical copy of this “Aerial” EP record, via the link above.
-Jeronimo Watson
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