Xistence レコード& CD

Review: Dublin's Xistence Records is well known for its authentic Detroit-inspired techno. Bossman Phil Robertson is responsible for that and here brings a collection of tracks under his Arbilla guise infused with classic Motor City influences. He kicks off with 'Parallel Universe' with its galloping groove and chimey chords with occasional French Kiss-style stabs. 'Sleepless Night' is more soulful and raw machine music, 'Lonely Moments' is more percussion and bright in its lush harmonies, and the release includes a standout remix by John Beltran who reimagines 'Lonely Moments' with a beautiful acidic twist.

Review: Hungarian-born, Dublin-based Phil Robertson has some pedigree but Arbilla is a new name he's operating under, and indeed there seems to be a slightly more musical, less relentless angle to his once defiantly minimal sound to go with the new moniker too. He provides three of the four tracks here, from the chunky and dramatic 'Stranger Things' and the breezy, spacious 'Fragrance' to the EP's glorious title track, with its Plaid-like syncopation and spiralling melodies. Mysterious techno 'supergroup' from Detroit, Scan 7 remix 'Virtual Reality' and they whip it into thunderclapping Underground Resistance shape. Greatness in evidence whichever way you turn.