Back in stock: All genres

Review: With over half a dozen releases on the techno instituion that is this label, Spanish producer Toni Alvarez continues to perfect his ability to craft tracks that resonate with both energy and depth that are ideal to represent the label. The title track, 'Groove System', kicks off with looped melodic chords and immaculate production, creating an irresistible rhythm that captures the essence of modern techno. 'Jingo' follows with a pounding beat, tribal undertones and a primal energy that veers into sci-fi territory, making it perfect for adventurous DJs. On Side-2, 'Magalenha' dives deeper into tribal elements, delivering a thunderous groove that commands the dancefloor. Closing the release, 'Land Of Nowhere' offers hypnotic loops and hard-hitting percussion, seamlessly blending upbeat energy with an entrancing rhythm. With this EP, Alvarez not only reinforces his status as a Planet Rhythm mainstay but also continues to push boundaries, delivering tracks that are as functional as they are engaging.

Review: Planet Rhythm is a highly prolific label whose quality levels never dip, all while staying true to a signature sound that is classical and fad-free. The SP Series has furthered its reputation and now hits a tenth edition with Portuguese legend and 30-year scene veteran A Paul at the helm. His opening gambit is a mental deep techno workout with prying bass precision, 'Utopia' gets more unsettled with twitchy stabs and FX and 'Hardcell' unfolds at warp speed with tightly woven layers of synth and bass. There is no let up on closer 'Constrain' which balances minimalism with sophisticated sound design for a pure deep techno trip.