The young Ukrainian producer follows his debut on Ben Klock’s label with this innovative, unusual techno record. “Axiom” is reminiscent somewhat of DVS1, with its meaty bass snaking its way through an insistent, minimal groove. By contrast, “Sakura” resounds to microscopic beats and hypnotic, tonal bleeps. It’s just as subtle as “Axiom”, but far more understated. This proves to be a temporary diversion however, and straight afterwards, he drops “Lyrae”. Tight claps, insistent pulses and bristling percussion make for a functional but distinctive dance floor track. Last and possibly best of all is “Luna”. Its melancholic bass and windswept, mysterious melodies make for a beautiful, unexpected end to this release.

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Klockworks celebrates its tenth release by introducing Ukrainian artist Etapp Kyle to the label. It’s the young producer’s first vinyl offering and it’s likely he’ll enjoy a similar spotlight of exposure to that of DVS1 did he debuted on Ben Klock’s imprint. The title track “Astra” sees melodic arpeggios bleep over a solid four-four kick drum as a 909 drum machine is used percussively as much as it is atmospherically. Kyle keeps things tonal in “Drama” adding a subtle dubby edge, while “Aurora” sounds like a chime-filled take of Ben Klock’s most defining tracks “Pulse” and “Subzero”. Kyle caps his homage to Berghain’s most famous DJ with more sweet blips and tough-loving drums that are surrounded by a crackling ambience in “Prizma”.

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