RIBE Schallplatten & CDs

Review: Ribe is back on PoleGroup which is always going to get our attention, as well as that of any real techno head. This time it is with Las Tres Puertas which is a superb eight-track double 12". The title track opens in dramatic fashion with chords full of tension and train track beats that loop infectiously. There is a more experimental feel to the fuzzy loops of 'La Rabia', 'El Sutil Arte' is full of edge and tension thanks to a loud, centred drone and 'El Nuevo Mundo' is a dystopian and swampy soundtrack to a dark day on a distant planet. In between are many more intriguing sound designs and unusual rhythms.

Review: The cover of Ribe's new EP for Polegroup seems to depict the face of some Middle Ages king buried amongst the roots of a tree and surrounded by prying eyes. It's intriguing and very much at odds with the distinctly futuristic techno contained within. 'La Penumbra' is shrouded in fog and mist as deeply buried kick roll unhindered. 'El Metodo' is a soundtrack to static electricity passing through a factory floor and sending things into overdrive. 'Las Raices' then has heavier, more raw drum kicks and absorbing ambiance up top and 'Bajo El Olivo' closes out with pinging kicks underneath the cosmic sound of a distant universe. Exceptional designs and heady moods make this a well-crafted EP.

Review: Ribe and Roll Dann are two techno mastros from Madrid, already renowned for various past releases on labels including Semantica, Soma and Mord.Their minimalistic yet powerful style has seen them rub shoulders with esteemed figureheads among whom Ben Klock has been the most eminent - leading to this crisp four-tracker here. This is muted techno of the atmospheric, somewhat organic variety, and all tracks come with a slinky life feel that neatly complements the pair's live sets.