ZIPPO レコード& CD

Review: Z.I.P.P.O's return to Setaoc Mass's Berlin-based SK11 imprint hears the Italian producer break out from biostasis, stretching his/its tendrils out across four world-devouring tracks. 'Eleven' trades formula for feeling, its pseudopodial tempos binding to high-suction mechanics. Mournful synth phrases grate against a heavyweight pulse, as 'Hypernova' submerges into swung drum programming and murky mellifluous atmospheres. Flip it over and 'Kaus' introduces tribal momentum and swelling chords that slowly tilt the record into trance-adjacent territory; closer 'Replication' tightens the screws, bringing the most propulsive moment of the set with its warped detailing and hard-edged groove.

Review: Z.I.P.P.O is an Italian born producer now based in Berlin but who brings plenty of Motor City influences to this EP on Mistress Recordings. It is one that holds emotion high up the list of things to get right while colliding both nostalgic and futuristic designs. 'We Need One Another' is an ice-cold and minimal opener and 'Last Hope' is steeped in melancholy thanks to wispy, lingering pads. 'We Need One Another' then comes in three forms with crisp as you like snares and kinetic kicks making for a busy rhythm.

Review: Originally founded in Manchester but now well entrenched in Berlin, SK Eleven continues to fly the flag for stern, unrelenting techno shrouded in gothic undertones with this essential drop from Zippo. The approach is one focused on needlepoint drum programming, running from the twitchy hats and thunderous kicks of 'Pulse & Distortion' to the snappy 909 hits of 'Xukro' on to the mind-warping arps of 'Cannot Stop Thinking', which also features Celina Marie's detached voice calling out the track title in the middle of the maelstrom. At all times it's techno delivered with an accomplished tone, making for must-check gear for any dedicated diggers and DJs.