Back in stock: Techno

Review: We are always excited to see a new release by S.O.N., as you can be sure to expect some quality techno. This new release is jam-packed with beautiful late night ambient techno. 'Distance Problems' is the title track for the EP and definitely stands out. The deep ambient acid that gives way for a brisk dancefloor knockout is pure sublime producing. 'Fade To Green' is a stunning atmospheric jam that verges on a beautiful acid trance sunset. On Side-2, 'Vanessa' is a floaty ambient techno track that you we just can't get enough of listening here at HQ. Just when we thought we couldn't be any happier, Romanian producer adds his Midas touch to the remix. If you like spacey techno, then suit up.

Review: Novi Orbis is a label that has said before it is on a journey into outer space and that sonic mission continues here with a new EP from Elias Sternin. He is a fresh new school soundsmith with who impresses with this one from the off: 'Musica Interminable' is all bendy bass and driving, swampy synths with thudding kicks that sound like a future rave in the stars. 'Magnetismo Inexplicable' is another nice and elastic mix of drums and bass with bright progressive chords and 'Three O'clock' (rework) then gets loose and tripped out. 'Portamento' closes down with a gurgling baseline and snappy drums to get you marching.

Review: If you love the sound of Get Physical and similarly anthemic German techno labels, you're going to love this release on new label Didschn. The label nods to a track Super Flu released back in 2010, which was remixed to great effect by Monkey Safari a couple of years back. Now Super Flu open proceedings on this new release in partnership with Ivan Mas on the epic, infectious 'It's A House Day'. Monkey Safari then hop on the B-side for 'Malmedy', which hits a sweet spot near the mid-00s melodic minimal you'd hear from the likes of Gabriel Ananda. Then Super Flu and Mar+Mer link up for 'AMA', a sensual, emotive hands-in-the-air moment to move the masses.

Review: Frame Of Mind has been one of the best techno and house labels in the past couple years hailing from the Netherlands. This is the second appearance for Synaptic Voyager on the label in total. 'Epoch Ten' exhibits a premier example of the quality ambient techno the label has released in recent years. Fans of As One, FBA, Stasis and Sensurreal are sure to gravitate toward this track in particular. The 90s Detroit vibe is here in many respects. 'Ne Plus Ultra' and 'Reverie' are perfect tributes to the lineage there. The robot funk in 'Milestone' is particularly exciting with this early 90s styled foray into UK techno while 'Parallax' gives off a heavy Innovator and early Warp label impressions. If you are a fan of ambient techno then this is a quick and easy pickup.

Review: Cologne's legendary Kompakt label has been rolling out these superb compilations for many years now. The 23rd instalment is another fine snapshot of the more matter and grown up end of the tech, minimal and techno spectrum with plenty of familiar faces as well s new school stars. Boss man Michel Mayer opens up with the bright melodies and swinging grooves of 'Talmi' before Jurgen Paape keeps it deep and delicious with more easy going grooves and keys. Elsewhere a Sofia Kourtesis remix if Perel brings more dancefloor ready sounds and Reinhard Voigt's 'Endlich XXL' (feat Eduard Weber) is a freaky one for the afters.

Review: Albert Zhirnov's back on the Clergy label for a second time following his debut last year. Once again he showcases a love of fad-free, straight up techno pumpers for the main room. There is a sweep-you-off-your-feet urgency to 'Switchback' with its hurried kicks and restless synth loops all demanding you move. 'Distortion Forge' is a high-octane banger too, this time with rusty metal peeling off the bulky beats. The energy levels ramp up through another high-functioning tool in 'Wooden Lessons' and the frictionless forces of 'Stoker.' Basements won't know what's hit them.