CHRISTOPHER RAU Schallplatten & CDs

Review: While Christopher Rau has released many fine EPs and 12" singles, some of his best work has been showcased on albums. It's no surprise when you think about it, because his brand of ultra-deep and sonically detailed house and techno suits the full-length format. It's exciting, then, that he's finally got round to recording and releasing a fourth LP. Stretched across two slabs of wax to ensure club-ready loudness, the eight showcased cuts cannily combine woozy, twinkling and tactile melodic motifs with great grooves, swinging drums and toasty basslines. Highlights include star-lit opener 'Better Times', the starry hypnotism of 'On The Dancefloor', the lo-fi St Germain vibes of 'Ne Travaillez Jamais (Still Working Mix)', the deep up-tempo dustiness of 'Thank You', and the wide-eyed loved-up hug of 'Evin'.

Review: Over the past 15 years Christopher Rau has been featured on some excellent labels within techno and house. From Smallville, Giegling, Mule Musiq, Pampa and more. Now, Phonogramme adds this talented producer to their impressive roster. The Blade EP showcases Rau's amazing talents at making great sounding electronic music. The production is clean, polished and catchy. 'Alfred' is a deep house gem that hits all your senses - a track you can play day or night. The title track, meanwhile, has all the makings of a Detroit masterpiece that reminds us of works by Ian O'Brien, Envoy or Dan Curtin. Do not sleep on the two cuts on the B-side either, they're deep groovers to round out this EP well.

Review: While his productions have graced many fine labels - Die Orakel, Pampa, Mule Musiq and Giegling included - Christopher Rau has been integral part of the Smallville Records family since 2009. High quality deep house is the order of the day throughout Abspace, his first EP for the label since 2020, with the yearning, slow-build positivity of the gorgeous title track being followed by the immersive, sci-fi bliss of 'Set It Off', whose melancholic chords add a bittersweet touch to an otherwise loved-up affair. Over on side B, 'Do It' sees him successfully doff a catch the classic Mr Fingers productions (with a touch of Move D on the side), while 'One More Time' is a melodious, riff-heavy affair that's as saucer eyed as they come.