Techno charts

Review: Jeff Mills has long been inspired by Fritz Lang's 1927 science fiction movie 'Metropolis' (as was Giorgio Moroder, whose work also influenced many Motor City techno producers of Mills' era) and first created his own truncated alternative soundtrack for it 23 years ago. 'Metropolis Metropolis' sees him revisit the idea, creating a brand-new, elongated soundtrack more befitting extended versions of the film (which famously was heavily edited on in its initial release). As you'd expect, the triple-vinyl album, which is made up of six side-length suites, mixes electronic and acoustic instrumentation, with ambient synth sounds and neo-classical orchestration sitting side by side. Throw in a healthy dollop of Mills' inherent Afro-futurism and some hypnotic, soft-touch grooves, and you have an inspired and far-sighted new soundtrack to an age-old classic.

Review: Electronic icon Jeff Mills links up with fellow Detroit talent Rafael Leafar for this one on his own Axis, and it is yet another sublime exploration of the cosmos through the medium of techno. Leafar brings all his next level multi-instrumentalist skills and strong love of jazz to the duo and when combined with Mills' ability to speak through his machines, it makes for a unique record. The icy percussion rolls deep, taking you into another dimension each and every time while the noodling sax brings sombreness and soul. Big, splashy cymbals, dark chords and a real sense of mystery and intrigue keep you utterly locked throughout.

Review: Blake Reyes is an alias for Italian artist Luca Vertulli and on this release for Jeff Mills' Axis Jazz collection he presents an extended double pack of hi-tech soul of the highest calibre. Recorded between Bologna, Milan and Rome overseen by Mills himself, Vernacular takes us deep into the heart of Reyes' vision, leading with the standout track 'At Night'. Anna Bassy's vocal sits front and centre on the original version of the track, but the B-side offers up alternative versions which let Reyes' assembled players shine through. Sides C and D offer up further excursions into hidden possibilities from the project such as the epic synth symphony of 'Sound Manifesto', mirroring the warm, instrumental charm of Mills' own Millsart releases and recent collaborations with Jean-Phi Dary.