Back in stock: Techno (All)

Review: ANAZANAUT is a time-bending audio artefact stitched together from decades of disparate sonic moments. With recordings spanning from 1984 to 2024, the techno project feels like a cosmic scrapbook-fragmented memories reborn through meticulous remixing and remastering. From the icy atmospherics of 'Voice on the Air' to the vintage grit of 'Poacher Path (Extended Mix),' these tracks vibrate with echoes of past lives stitched together by a logic only time understands. ANAZANAUT doesn't follow a linear path; it loops, folds, and bends with compelling grooves and myriad occult sounds adding character and curiosity.

Review: Stefano Di Carlo' delivers a diverse mix of upbeat, energetic techno tracks perfect for the dancefloor. The first side kicks off with the Andy Perfetti Tribal City remix of Mad DJ, an uptempo burner with a catchy lead hook that immediately hooks the listener, setting the stage for high-energy vibes. The Alex Neri DJ Mad remix takes things in a more trance-like direction, with euphoric, psychedelic elements that create a distinct uplifting feel while maintaining a strong club rhythm. On Side-2, 'The Conversion' brings a vintage, rave-inspired melodic sound, with a nostalgic yet fresh feel. Finally, the original 'Mad DJ' track offers an otherworldly, alien vibe, with early 90s techno influences and a surprising house twist. Di Carlo's ability to blend different styles and eras offers something for both old-school techno lovers and those craving a more modern, experimental edge.

Review: Figure label head and longtime German techno titan Len Faki is back with another of his powerful two-track remix releases, and again he mixes up a favourite with a more recent gem. They come under his Hardspace alias, which sees Faki craft a deeper, more refined take that pays homage to his formative years while pushing forward with modern precision. Firstly, he reimagines Benjamin Damage's 2013 anthem '010X,' amplifying its soaring chords with jacking percussion and a beefed-up low end that turns the melodic original into a driving club weapon. On the flip, Faki dives into Aquatrax's late-'90s classic 'Stabilize' by adding a hypnotic, dub-infused loop that pulses with subtle detail and immersive energy.

Review: Coorreente Belgium delivers a compelling slice of modern techno with 'Interlink', a four-track compilation that dives deep into rhythmic exploration and sci-fi atmospheres. Each cut offers a unique perspective, yet together they create an excellent and cohesive experience. Orbe's 'Jaxa' kicks things off with a spacey, melodic groove. The track's sci-fi techno aesthetic is underscored by rhythmic intricacies, creating a sense of forward momentum through the cosmos. It sets the tone with a blend of dreamlike melodies and pulsing beats. 'Refraction' by PTTRNRCRRNT follows, venturing into tribal territory with creative, off-kilter rhythms. Alien-esque warning sounds weave through the mix, adding a sense of unease and mystery that keeps listeners on edge. On Side-2, Deluka's 'Axis' plunges into subterranean techno with a deep, hypnotic vibe. Elements of trance filter through crisp production, guiding the listener on a spacey, introspective journey that feels both grounded and ethereal. Jorge Flukso's 'Synaptic' closes the EP with a nod to classic underground techno. Its dynamic, brooding build recalls the raw energy of Surgeon's warehouse bangers. The track's evolving layers and relentless drive create a late-night atmosphere perfect for dark, crowded dance floors. 'Interlink' is a well-curated snapshot of techno's diverse spectrum, balancing the cerebral and the physical with finesse. If you are one that thinks techno has been over-saturated the last decade and that there is no good techno coming out anymore then I would check this EP out.

Review: Prince De Takicardie delivers a new four-track set of tachycardial heart-racers as reinforcements to his own Prince's Castle, which is both a label and a proverbial princely citadel. This is also the Barceloni producer's second edition to the powered 'Force Bleu' EP series, matched colourfully by the equally propulsive 'Force Rouge' counterpart, for which there have also been two records so far. Increasing in both pace and intensity, this raw and jammy follow-up reaches its crescendo at the rough 15-minute mark with the hypnotic 'EX-ecute (Execution Mix)', which conclusively yields to mesmeric acid and mystical three-tone entrainments, contrasting the first three track's relative utilitarian sense.

Review: On the debut release for their newly minted label, Manchester's Response and Buda make a bold statement with this EP. 'Evolutions' opens, delivering an immediate rush that churns up dark rave stabs and pounding percussion, invoking memories of the early 90s Jungle scene. Yet, there's a modern sharpness in the track's evolving structure, making it feel fresh without losing the classic vibe. 'Fintons Dub' adds a layer of atmosphere, with its subdued bass and cinematic samples adding depth. Double 0's remix of 'Fintons Dub' hits like a freight train, its forceful bass and raw breaks cutting through the mix. Rounding out the EP, 'Acid Vein' slows things down with acid house influences, merging acid squelches with a deeper, more contemplative breakbeat rhythm that adds tension to the release.

Review: Wild Planet was originally a duo consisting of Simon J Hartley and Richard Brook who put out a fine debut album on Warp. After that. Hartley became the sole member for a further album on Octave One's Detroit-based 430 West label. This album came first in 1999 and has been fully remastered and sounds better than ever, with three bonus tracks from the original CD version making their vinyl debut. Transmitter captures a distinct blend of raw, warm and futuristic Detroit electro and techno that ranges from deep machine funk to atmospheric synth work. It's a shining example of Motor City innovation at its peak. Do not sleep.