Edinburgh-based label Duplicity ring in the New Year with “Initium | DPVA001” for a substantial compilation of hypnotic delights.
Duplicity, a relatively new Techno label run by EJA and Essentia, just released one of the years’ best Techno compilations for sure. “Initium | DPVA001” is the label’s first official output and contains 17 awe-inspiring tracks from some of 2022’s most prolific Techno craftsmen.
Relentless grooves and understated melodies seem to be at the cornerstone of Duplicity’s sound, and each artist featured on the compilation seems to have a shared musical sensibility. Upon first listen, it becomes clear that “Initium” is the beginning of something big.
Starting off the compilation is the cool and collected cut, “52 Don’t Play,” by Japan’s Toru Ikemoto. Smooth and refined, this track makes for an excellent introduction, not just for the compilation, but also for a DJ set. In contrast, EOYYV’s “Parte A” features sporadic bursts and dynamic percussive fills that capture your attention by force. Speaking of attention-grabbing sounds, Alberto Tolo’s “Tribe Danza” is a wonder to behold. Whimsically fast-paced with clicking and clacking in the off beats add an element of meticulously organized chaos to an already frantic modular loop, making for a wild dance track best saved for the peak time hours.
Though there are so many top-tier productions, a couple selections on the compilation stand out. Berlin-based producer, Marsch, offers a sleek, mind-melting sonic journey with her marvelously abstract track, “Back and Forth.” Pitched-down vocals and rolling deep bass tones coalesce into an intoxicating atmosphere, while a steady buildup of the beat provides listeners with just enough structure to lock in and drift away. Track thirteen, titled, “Quid,” by JASØN, utilizes much rougher and more rigid drums to get things moving. Short, old school, Hip Hop vocal chops tie in his choice of eclectic drum loops to an overarching theme, while a repeating swoosh serves as a satisfying lead.
All in all, “Initium | DPVA001” is an exceptional Techno compilation, and with it, Duplicity has put itself on the map. Support the artists and label with a digital download, linked above.
-Jeronimo Watson
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