Midgar Schallplatten & CDs

Review: Agonis takes inspiration from astronomy for his new EP on Midgar. The Berlin-based techno experimenter and co-founder of Amenthia harnesses the unworldly energy of gamma rays and their electromagnetic radiation across four cuts. 'Gamma Ray' is first and a thumping and dynamic blend of bubbling bass and rubbery kicks overlaid with spiraling synths that fall like fireworks. 'Carbonine' is another quick and punchy cut with tightly woven drums and 'Solaris' then suspends you up amongst the stars with warm solar winds streaming by next to deft synth modulations. Closer 'Monolith' slows things down and brings some mysterious late-night funk to the EP.

Review: Dutch artist Tammo Hesselink has always played with rhythm whatever style of music he makes. He does that again here with a new EP - his debut for the Midgar label out of Berlin - that showcases his stripped-back style over five fresh cuts. Opener 'Zero History' has loopy beats and a moody atmosphere that's dark but alluring then 'Nut Wandel' is another heady and hypotonic cut with undulating bass and deft sound designs while the flipside features a trio of variations on that theme - sleek rhythms and evocative little details that draw you in deep. These might ostensibly be DJ tools, but they sure do elevate a dancefloor in sophisticated ways.