- Techno for a deep level of hypnosis.
- Adiel doesn't make tracks for casual techno DJs. The Italian artist's M.O. suits the moments in which a dance floor locks into a deeper level of hypnosis, a state only reached in the right conditions when a skilled and patient DJ controls the music. She has a gradually growing discography dedicated to this method, mostly released through her own label, Danza Tribale, or "tribal dance," a fitting name. Her records so far, as well as this one for Kangding Ray's new label, ara, show there's a high risk and reward at play: get this style right, and the power of such stripped-down, focussed grooves can be incredible. Go the other way, however, and the tracks risk slipping into tedium, particularly without the benefit of a big soundsystem.
To Adiel's credit, she often nails it. "Anatomia Del Cavallo," "In Tokyo" and "Melodica" are among her tracks worth seeking out, while Musicofilia, which takes its name from the 2007 Oliver Sacks book Musicophilia: Tales Of Music And The Brain, has other strong examples for consideration.
For me, "Rednight," tucked away on the B2, is the EP's pick. It's the one with the subtlest temperament, but after a breakdown reminiscent of progressive house, the bassline shows it had menacing intentions all along. "The Call" also plays with contrasts to satisfying effect—if it's not too pretentious to say, while absorbing its taut groove I found myself imagining good and evil spirits dualling in a cathedral. "Vanishing" and "Musicofilia" are more direct. Of the two, the bellicose bassline of "Musicofilia" stands out, especially as a spectral string part takes flight above.
TracklistA1 The Call
A2 Vanishing
B1 Musicofilia
B2 Rednight