VIELS Vinyl & CDs

Review: Dynamic Reflection remains a steadfast platform for 'proper' techno with something to say. Since 2008 they've been pushing artists to match dancefloor functionality with original ideas, and so the story continues on this latest VA release. Veritable legend Function steps up first with the tense, restrained arp odyssey of 'Give Thanks To The Sun', while label regular Viels jumps in next with the ironically titled tough-trucking workout 'Fragile'. Abstract Division kick off the B-side with the sizzling, rippling 'Convolution' (not to be confused with the Skudge track of the same name), and DOM completes the picture with a teasing, broken rhythm and psychoactive frequencies of the highest calibre.

Review: Viels returns with Il Quarto Respiro, an immersive journey into the depths of techno. Released on Semantica, Viels' explores a range of sounds and atmospheres. Highlights included on the first side, 'Alienazione,; a percussive powerhouse that delivers metallic textures and driving rhythms, setting a formidable tone. 'Collasso Mentale' takes listeners on a journey through outer space with its sci-fi-inspired soundscape, evoking a sense of sinister alienation that permeates the track, On the flip side, 'Nuvole Bianche' continues the exploration of outer space, enveloping listeners in a mysterious and otherworldly atmosphere. The track's wicked undertones and alien textures create an intense sonic experience that captivates the imagination. Closing the album is 'Lontano Da Casa,' a heavily intense audio punishment that pushes the boundaries of techno with its pulsating beats and hypnotic rhythms. Viels demonstrates his ability to create tension and energy, leaving listeners spellbound until the very last beat.

Review: 2023 marks a decade since Bas Mooy launched Mord, an outlet for forthright, heavyweight techno of the type that's now all the rage but was once frowned on but all but those who followed the style. We'll have to wait and see what they have - if anything - in store in way of celebration, but first Mooy has decided to offer up this collaborative EP from Dynamic Reflection regulars Viels and Pyramidal Decode. They begin with the dark, buzzing, atmospheric intensity of the Donatto Dozzy-esqye 'Privazione Individuale', before opting to pepper a more minimalistic techno groove with leaping modular pulses on 'Sintesi'. 'Entropia Variable' is a dense, locked-in chunk of noise-smothered industrial techno, while 'Moto Ondulatorio' is a surging slab of peak-time energy peppered with mind-mangling modular motifs and razor-sharp electronic riffs.