Touted as an artist that masterfully tows the line between glossy, euphoric piano house and heavy, bad boy bass techno, Deetron returns to our speakers to bring us an ebullient release on Mutual Rytm’s latest sub-label, X.
A celebrated Swiss DJ and producer, Deetron is a highly regarded figure in the electronic music scene. Across his two-decade-long trajectory, he’s carved out a reputation for precise production skills, mastery of DJing across three decks, and the ability to uniquely finesse the soulful elements of house with the driving force of techno. His work has been released on renowned labels like Music Man, Illian Tape, Fabric, Defected, Hot Creations, Suara, and Get Physical, as well as launching his own label, Character, in 2014.
Notorious tracks like ‘Starblazer’, ‘Photon’, and ‘Rescue’ and remixes for artists such as Carl Craig, Honey Dijon, Jamiroquai, and DJ Hell showcase his ability to infuse his work with a unique, melodic touch that sets him apart from his peers. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to his roots while continuously innovating, as evident in projects like his concept album on Jeff Mills’ AXIS and collaborations with artists like DJ Bone. Over a quarter century, he has consistently proved himself a visionary and actively propelled the sound of modern electronic music, earning him a loyal following and high demand for his remixing skills.
‘Translate Rhythms’ is a four-track EP on the X sub-label of Mutual Rytm and showcases his signature style while pushing into new territories. Ever growing in notoriety, Mutual Rytm, launched by SHDW in 2022, is known for delivering a modern twist on old-school and formative techno. Aligned with Mutual Rytm’s ethos of blending the classic with the contemporary, the EP further contributes to the label’s growing reputation for high-quality, inventive releases.
Digging into the EP, the title track, “Translate Rhythms,” feels like an opulent, golden hour sunset on the beach. The full-bodied jazz infusion gives a light and airy feeling in combination with the uplifting piano melody, and you are left with pure magic. The ideal tune to elevate the mood while also making a dynamic impact, landing a track that is both playful and powerful. Leaving the land of sunshine for something more dramatic, “Cause” takes a darker turn with high impact stabs and sharp percussion, driving the energy forward. Circular drums cause a stir and a repeating vocal builds intensity to deliver a sumptuously grooving track.
Moving deeper into techno territory, “Move” immediately throws a gritty, funky edge with its robust drum patterns and clunky bass. If windshield wipers had a funky bass track to whack across your windshield to, you’d be lucky if it were this one. Perfectly synchronized, this sinister swagger is smoky and cool.
The EP wraps up with “Orbit,” for a digital bonus track that ventures into hypnotic soundscapes with swirling pads and a minimalist groove, offering a perfect segue to change the vibe or one to put on to draw suspense.
A brooding contribution to the Deetron catalog, ‘Translate Rhythms’ is a testament to this artist’s enduring relevance and unbounded creativity in the electronic realm.
-Jen Warra
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