Portal vinyl

MRT is a new label from the Swiss label Lux Rec, and judging by this debut release from Mule and Live at Robert Johnson artist Benedikt Frey, it is dedicated to abstract, mid-tempo experiments. The title track sets the pace, with rough tones and dark abrasive acid licks set to a pulsing, stop-start rhythm. "Telamon" follows in a similar vein; coated in 303s, it winds its way through atmospheric diversions and builds gradually over a dense, stepping rhythm. Finally, there's "Stereobate", which offers a surprise; instead of abstract rhythms, Frey lays down a jack-hammer rhythm that is as intense as trip to a dentist who has run out of anesthetic.