#60 Feat. New Releases in Techno (Raw / Deep / Hypnotic)

Border One's fourth contribution to Token Records is an ode to the cosmic, an ever-present theme in the Belgian's acclaimed career. 'Strange Attractor' takes techno and applies Border One's bubbly modular sound glossing over thick drums, weaving through sound design destined for sophisticated sets on worthy sound systems. Calm and collected, he offers yet again his attention to detail and devotion to effect.  As an introduction, 'Strange Attractor' presents a gripping story. Displaying sustained tension, he takes his time to reveal his channels. Forcing the listener to settle in and anticipate, the elements diverge and converge over the space of six minutes, shifting groove throughout. A return to calm, slightly uneasy control helps us arrive at an influx in energy for the rest of the project. Moving along to 'Astral Plane', we are introduced to more extroverted sequences. Boomy through fluctuating synth lines and stomping claps, the seasoned producer uses the size of his design in the low end to justify a more erratic arrangement. Spread noise in the background interweaves with confronting synth work, making 'Astral Plane' impressive in weight without losing the intricate quality that its producer is known for. Opening the dimension of the project through far spread elements, 'Time Dilation' creates linear focus with a cloudy entourage. An always club efficient throbbing main synth persists through an exciting structure, highly resonant transitions whip through drum machine patterns, making the third track on the record nothing if not a nail biter. The shuffle of the hi hats does nothing to slow down the energetic peak of the EP; we find Border One confidently in control of layered machinery. Drawing the project to a close, 'Fractal' blinks through persistent tension. Linear rides and drones open and close with each transition, making for a bent atmosphere of intrigue. With a sturdy rhythm dotting along from start to finish, the tonality of Fractal makes it the perfect final bow to grasp Border One's intentions and the universe he puts his work in.

Border One