Riesen – Ankara [Moonchild Records]

Moonchild Records returns from a near two year hiatus with a new EP from Riesen. The Italian duo have found a home on Be Free Recordings, Dear Deer and Lauter Unfug where their unique take on melodic techno has flourished. Now as 2019 winds to a close Riesen debuts on Moonchild with 'Ankara' alongside a remix from Stas Drive.

Beginning with the title and showcase piece ‘Ankara' Riesen crafts a proper slice of deep astral techno. Dulcet beats, tranquil rhythms and ghostly pads highlight the nine minute journey. Senses heighten as arpeggiated clusters and waves of percussion unite across a smooth second act, before flowing effortlessly into a dramatic break. Elegant yet tense, the interlude saturates your senses with charming atmospheres opening up with each successive loop, before smoothly segueing into a meditative final act. The companion piece ‘Insomnia’ follows a similar sonic ethos, making it a perfect complement to its predecessor. Sitting at the heart of the piece is a mysterious vocal loop and fragmented melodies. Ominous and intriguing, it’s arcane nature is inviting as subtle rhythmic shifts and a backdrop of brooding tension make for an incredibly heady journey. The storyboard becomes fully realized in the main break, melting down to a gentle sonic sizzle, perfectly foreshadowing a glowing finale.

The lone interpretation of 'Ankara' is provided by Stas Drive who makes his label debut. The Ukrainian artist has been a mainstay of the melodic house and techno scene for the better part of a decade. A broad spectrum of the underground's top tastemakers have championed his work, most notably Tale Of Us and Nick Warren. Now rounding out the year in style he turns in a brilliant rendition of 'Ankara'. Always a creative remixer, Stas reinvents the main elements into something decidedly more peak time, sitting as an ideal complement to the original. Atop a muscular groove, comes buzzing synths and hypnotic motifs. It’s unique contrast of grit and shimmer results in a remarkable sonic marriage, one which makes for a hugely energetic yet quite tasteful journey, elegantly peaking through a dramatic break, before a charged final act puts a cap on this cosmic gem. A stunning remix from Stas Drive which rounds out a hugely successful return for Moonchild Records. Highly recommended.

Buy: https://bit.ly/2F2VADo

Release Date: 27-12-2019

Release Promo: http://releasepromo.com

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