Genre/Influences: Techno, Dark-Techno, Hard-Techno.

Format: Digital, Vinyl.

Background/Info: This split EP is the second release from the Berlin based Gegen Records. The A-side features two tracks by Berlin-based DJ/producer/label owner Oliver Deutschmann while the B-side features two more tracks resulting from a collaboration between Berlin-based DJ/producer La Fraicheur and French DJ/producer/label owner Léonard De Léonard.

Content: Oliver Deutschmann takes off with Hard-Techno vibes. The remix of “Wach” by another Berlin based producer Mar/us has something softer and more ambient through the synth line hanging over the track.

“Roadkill” by La Fraicheur & Léonard De Léonard is somewhat different; still Techno driven, but carried by a menacing bass line and accomplished with heavier and even Industrial-like noises. The remix by Italian producer WarinD sounds more like classical Techno music.

+ + + : I first of all discovered the great cover of this 12”, which looks pretty artistic. The idea of a split EP is interesting, but I clearly have a preference for the original edit of “Wach” by La Fraicheur & Léonard De Léonard. This is an intelligent piece of Techno music with a darker touch on top.

– – – : I was less convinced by the track of Oliver Deutschmann although this is a heavy beating Techno-Club stomper.

Conclusion: Berlin remains the sonic Mecca for Techno music and even if this is not the best I’ve heard from this scene, it’s music to move to!

Best songs: “Roadkill”.

Rate: (6½).

Artists: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100050411233111 / www.facebook.com/djlafraicheur / www.facebook.com/LeonarddeLeonardFan

Label: www.gegenberlin.com / www.facebook.com/berlingegen

About Oliver Deutschmann

Oliver Deutschmann is a German DJ and producer based in Berlin, also known under the alias Orion, and a co-founder of the label Vidab Records. He has released and performed as part of the groups Berg, Gowentgone, S.M.O.D., Subbroom Association and Acquaintance, according to his Discogs profile. This split EP pairs his A-side Hard-Techno material, including a remix by fellow Berlin producer Mar/us, with a B-side collaboration between La Fraicheur and Léonard De Léonard on the Berlin label Gegen Records.

Inferno Sound Diaries

I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.

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