- After three records of mostly bright, airy techno, Blue Hour—the go-to alias these days for Berlin-based producer Luke Standing—turns in two fast and tough tracks for his latest clear-vinyl release, Common Ground. There's still a vintage flavor to these cuts, but the melodic synths that were prominent before are absent here. Instead, the focus is on slashing, 3/4 rhythms geared for peak-time use.
"Falling Lines" gets right to the point with a stuttered, angular lead that maneuvers confidently through the mix, augmented by frantic cymbals and a clap that helps glue everything together. "Common Ground" follows in a similar style, but it's longer (seven and half minutes) and more streamlined; instead of any prominent element, it packs a dense, twisting core that makes it a delight to DJ with. Blue Hour's other records are more diverse, but grab this one if pummeling a dance floor is your aim.
TracklistA1 Falling Lines
B1 Common Ground