BBBBBB レコード& CD

Review: Last time we heard from Stian "EOD" Gjevik in December 2017, he was gathering together the best of his self-released material for a fine compilation on WeMe (the must-have EODS). Here, the sometime Rephlex artist delivers his first EP of unheard tracks since 2014. There's naturally much to admire, from the vintage IDM melodies, braindance acid lines and glistening analogue electronics of life-affirming opener "Swurlk (Snarlfingercroak Mix), to the full-throttle, warehouse-friendly techno-rave insanity of "Swarm". Elsewhere, he peppers a two-step influenced rhythm track with luscious chords and bubbly analogue bass on "ELCASET_TESTGROOVE" and offers a thrilling trip into classic braindance territory (the standout "Evenhark").

Review: Former Rephlex artist EOD (real name Stian Gjevik) has begun to blossom since transferring to Icelandic label bbbbbb back in 2017. For this reason, we were unsurprised to find that "Zone", his first vinyl release of 2020, is another strong collection of cuts. He begins by giddily sprinting through tuneful, digi-dub influenced brain-dance pastures on excitable opener "From The 1st Sound", before moving further towards mangled, off-beat electro territory on the equally manic and melodious "Shy". He opts for an acid and Italo-disco influenced sound on the bubbly and all-action "Mist Appeal", while "Emper" is a cheeky chunk of up-tempo IDM. Closing cut "Mule", a simple slice of organ-led ambience, is also worth a listen.

Review: Bjarki's BBBBBB label has carved out its own unique niche in the techno world and next to occupy it is core label artist Stian "EOD" Gjevik. The former Rephlex artist shows off his magnificently complex and busy yet harmonic and melodic sound across five fantastically restless cuts that has lead synths taking you down a number of rabbit holes. Calming pads vie for your attention on "(Untitled) (W-R6)" while the acid laced "The Battery Poles (Are Conic!)" is so bright and shiny it'll have you reaching for your sunglasses. Few people speak so freely through their machines as this man right now.