Back catalogue: Techno (All)

Review: Emerald's 25th outing takes the form of another superb compilation with four artists who have already released on the label and plenty of new names making an equally good impression. ANNE kicks off with the deep, thudding kicks of 'Coral Reefs' complete with lush hits to smooth the groove. There is more weight and intensity to the oversized hi-hats ringlets on Mike Konstantinidis's 'Apocalypse', DJ Plant Texture layers in plenty of gritty and grime to his gritty 'Swingers' and Jarrod Yeates goes for a twisted after-party vibe on his intense and unrelenting 'Sesh Gremlin', with many more highlights besides.

Review: Mutual Rytm deals in proper techno that does the basics well and doesn't worry about modern fads. 'Surface' is the standout here - it has brilliantly bubbly synths rippling in sync with the hunched drums and bold bass notes. It works perfectly on both head and body and so does 'Blush' though with a more sleek, straight-ahead groove and minimal percussion over the echoing claps. 'Grainy' shuts down with another stylish techno bent and confirms Dold to be a vital voice in the current underground.

Review: This EP resonates with the stark beauty of nature's subterranean forces, aligning its sound with the stillness and weight of winter solstice. The release's four tracksi'Phyllite', 'Blueschist', 'Tactite' and 'Slate'ioffer raw, hypnotic techno built from minimal elements, each evolving into dynamic, narrative-driven compositions. 'Phyllite' opens with steady drive and layered textures, setting a brooding tone. 'Blueschist' intensifies with deep, pulsating rhythms and a hypnotic groove that echoes natural transformation. 'Tactite' delivers a longer, more meditative exploration of energy and movement, while 'Slate' closes the EP with a balance of percussive heft and atmospheric depth, evoking the cold winds and dormant power beneath the earth. Released on T3R014, the EP's raw, deep and hypnotic approach is a tribute to Dold's compositional mastery. It's a compelling release for DJs and techno enthusiasts who appreciate minimalist elements evolving into profound, energetic soundscapes. A standout addition to the underground techno scene.