Bassiani レコード& CD

Review: It's been a long time since Dadub released anything - the core of their output came via Stroboscopic Artefacts between 2011 and 2013. Now after a hiatus, they make a powerful return with this release for the label of Georgia's most infamous nightclub, Bassiani. They're not pulling any punches on this record, coming down heavy on "Rituals" with a dense, layered approach as edgy and experimental as it is propulsive. Zesknel's remix of the track goes in heavy too, although more in terms of erratic sound design rather than punishing techno rhythms. Check out "Resistance" on the flip to hear Dadub in full flight with spacious dub processing and rave samples over a stomping percussive undercarriage that begs to be played out in a smoke filled room.

Review: Uncompromising Scandinavian trio The Empire Line present the ninth release for Georgian imprint Bassiani. Comprised of Swedish techno rebel Varg and Danes Christian Stadsgaard (Posh Isolation) and Isak Hansen on vocals, they are known for powerful live performances and these four abrasive tracks capture that distinct energy of their club sets. The confrontational opening track "Uniforms" is somewhat reminiscent of '90s electro-industrial, while the doomsday rave anthem "No Prayers Will Help You Here" soon signals the peak time, followed by the extreme noise terror of "Daddy Issues" and coming to an epic climax with the relentless body basher "Spraypaint". Not for the faint of heart - play it loud!

Review: The first single on Georgian label Bassiani invited the likes of HVL and Vril to contribute, and now they turn to another selection of imposing techno auteurs for further exploits in dark realms. Avi Musaifi's "Qarva" is imposing enough on its own as an EP opener, but then Abdullah Rashim steps up with a remix that becomes a masterclass in eerie tension thanks to icy swells of drone and an unforgiving line in hi-hats. Varg is feeling feisty on the bass-growling "So Many People Trying To Be Unique (But They Still Remind Me Of Loke Rahbek)", but Newa attempts to soothe the situation with a pleasingly delicate yet energetic techno workout.