Back catalogue: Techno (All)

Review: Drumcode presents the second iteration of their soon-to-be-long-running 'Elevate' series, which in their usual audacious fashion features no less than eight label debutantes take the reigns on huge room techno production duties. The compilation's manifesto is simple: platform a broader range of emerging artists on Drumcode and help elevate the next generation to make strides in their careers. With that, we have the delight of selecting our picks of the bunch (all personal preference, of course, though you can trust our picks are educated guesses): in this case, it's got to be the slightly wonky and out-of-the-ordinary ones, those being Simina Grigoriu's 'Global Soldier' and Marie Vaunt's 'ADSR'.

Review: Led by a title track that proves to be a powerful, futuristic romp, a peak-time anthem, designed to electrify crowds, Konstantin Sibold's 'Lost In Space' EP is energetic techno carefully crafted for festival main stages and late-night club settings. 'The Arrival' follows with a shift in mood, more atmospheric and trance-tinged techno, evolving through sweeping pads and layered percussion, pushing forward a sense of anticipation and energy that will deliver a proper, soaring build in a DJ set. Rounding off the EP, 'Dark Matter' takes a more melodic approach, weaving intricate synth lines and evolving textures. A well-rounded exploration of powerful, yet nuanced techno, perfect Drumcode gear.

Review: Up-and-comer techno stalwart Bart Skils drops two new rather exciting menace-mongerers for Drumcode, 'Nexus' and 'Set It Right', both of which make up the brilliantly Japanese music-infused 'Sakura' EP. Bringing pentatonic scales and synth koto emulations to an impressively towering pair of propulsions, the selection is fittingly frenetic and yet remains sure to be a unique standout in the Drumcode catalogue; listen out for some prime vocal work on the B-side too, giving rise to a supreme pluck-led drop.

Review: Alex Stein's latest release, The Chant, on the veteran techno label Drumcode, delivers three powerful tracks that masterfully blend futuristic techno with 90s vibes. Each track stands out, making this EP a mainfloor essential. 'The Chant' is a techno powerhouse, featuring a unique vocal element and a massive acid sound. It's a robust workout with a big, expansive sound that commands attention. 'Rush' continues the intensity with its heavy beats and masterful builds. The track's melodic additions enhance the overall experience, making it a standout piece that will drive any crowd wild. 'Tantra' closes the EP with an epic vocal chorus and wobbling main chords. Its percussive elements and resonant energy create a dynamic rush of energy. Overall, The Chant features Alex Stein's ability to craft huge-sounding techno tracks perfect for main floors, maintaining a balance between nostalgic influences and forward-thinking production. Those who know Drumcode know what to expect.

Review: The mighty Drumcode is back with another one of its beefy techno 12"s, this time with Sudo bringing the noise. The whole of the a-side is given over to 'Real World', a taught, twanging techno cut with scintillating snare rolls and pulsating pads driving it forward beneath raw vocals. On the flip, that knack for industrial sound design also reappears with more metal clangs but also some trance-inducing chords which will zone out dancers on 'Construction'. Last but not least is 'Mercury', a bright, upbeat trance-techno cut with euphoric feels washing over the jacked up beats.