Neuma Spain Vinyl & CDs

Review: In the Strugatsky brothers' Roadside Picnic - and its ensuing film adaptation by Andrei Tarkovsky, Stalker - "the Zone" is a forbidden area lying somewhere in a post-apocalyptic, post-Soviet wilderness, in which manifold unspeakable evils and anomalies lurk, in wait of those bold enough to brave them by riskily attempting to reach the wish-granting, power-bestowing oracle at its heart. Producer CT Kidobo channels the noxiously wish-fulfilling, but also toxic gases and atmospheres native to the Strugatskys' Zone, via four waste-scouring 4x4 electro heaters, described by the Neuma label as channelling 'highly emotional content'. A chillingly formative journey is conveyed through the opening 'The Last Run', the sticky, hands-dirty drama of 'Into The Zone' and the half-lived bonus beats of 'Just Use Your Imagination'.

Review: In his endeavour, Zet Uma's provides us with a fresh spin on classic wave and Italo influences. The four tracks draw the you in with deep, pulsating basslines, while the synths create an atmospheric tension that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking. 'Loveblind' sets the tone, offering a smooth yet intricate groove, while 'New Level, New Devil' amps up the energy with its driving beat. 'Pleasure Above' and 'New Direction' wrap up the EP, each track offering a distinct feel, from moody introspection to high-energy propulsion. This release captures a sense of evolution, with the duo crafting soundscapes that are both rooted in the past and looking toward the future.