Oaks Germany Vinilo y CD

Review: Italian-born/Berlin-based DJ & Producer Pasquale Ascion delivers his second LP since 2016, comprised of largely 303 centered sounds. Acidtraum is a journey into the dark side of the genre, with a dozen tracks that combine lysergic synths, heavy drums and haunting ambience. Further showcasing the Neapolitan producer's wide sonic repertoire, there are moments of bass-heavy electro as heard on 'It Began With That Sound', throwbacks to early hardcore rave sounds explored on 'Needless' (Troller Coaster Kaos mix) and wild Italo reinterpretations ('Tribute To Bad Passion') in addition to many straight ahead techno bangers.

Review: In a short space of time, DJ Plant Texture has become a firm figure at the vanguard of the techno landscape. This new four track offering from the man is billed as 'presents A662' so might be the start of a new alias but his techno still bangs as it always did. The references space the deep styles of Donato Dozzy as well as old school rave and breaks, particularly on the trance like 'Dreamers.' Two further cuts in 'It's A Rave Generation' (a more dense, tense, textured affair) and 'The A662 Acid Anthem' with its over compressed drums and video game sound effects close out a varied and vital EP.

Review: Hector Oaks is one of the most trusted stamps of authority in big, bashy techno, and his label is a natural extension of his knowledge and taste. As such, you're going to want to pay attention to this new release, which revolves around some ear-snagging samples chatting about players playing themselves. It's a hip-hop rooted attitude which extends into the funky cuts juicing up 'Player Three', while 'Player Twenty-Five' turns up the pressure with some loopy madness and then jacks 'Player Three' up by '8%' for those who like it faster. 'Ghetto Bootie' finishes the record off on an unmistakable Dance Mania tip, and it sounds absolutely deadly.