Berlin-based Techno label OECUS delivers an outstanding compilation of various artists for its seventh release with “OCSDGTL007”.
Over the last few years, the Berlin-based collective and record label known as OECUS has been consistently putting out various artist compilations that deserve our attention. With tracks ranging from hypnotic to industrial and nearly every style of Techno in between, OECUS has, in a very short time, grown an impressive, wide-ranging roster of rising stars in the genre. While the collective’s seventh digital release, titled “OCSDGTL007,” doesn’t offer the most tracks of all of their previous outputs, it may be the label’s best sounding release to date.
ANNĒ’s hard-hitting hypnotic cut “Unfold” starts the compilation off with a bang. Warm, wide, and absolutely massive, “Unfold” is the kind of track many Techno producers strive for. Thick percussive hits, shakers, and cymbals push the beat over the edge, while a distant synth lead echoes out, sounding like a steam engine moving closer at an alarming rate. Next, “A Moment In Time” by Guatemalan producer Maōh comes creeping in with an infectious groove and haunting melody. Jungle sound effects go a long way to transport you to an unfamiliar place, while a joyous hi hat helps to keep things somewhat light and festive. The third cut, “Zephyr,” by Monovsn is perhaps the most sporadic track on the compilation as it features a melody and bass line that simply won’t sit still.
Next, “Cycles” by Redrooms comes in hot and fast with a mesmerizing bubbly sound that will leave you floored. If a harder sound is what you’re after, look no further than the fifth track, “Raksan,” by Tensic. A looping chirp noise, like that of some extraterrestrial bird, rings and distorts, while aggressive drums and bass come crashing down. This track’s by no means intended for the faint of heart, and neither is the next. “Headache Bao” by USAW picks up where Tensic left off, this time utilizing a weighty modular bass line that will pummel you. Last but not least is “Bermuda” by Uväll. Much like the triangle, “Bermuda” is mysterious, bordering on frightening. This cut perhaps has the most dynamic range of them all, featuring sudden bursts of long and short reverbs that help to create a sense of dramatic depth and vast open space. Losing yourself in these tracks may come easier than you’d expect, and one can’t help but be excited for what OECUS brings us next.
Support the collective with a digital download via their Bandcamp page, linked above.
-Jeronimo Watson
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