Starkato – Astral [Asymmetric Recordings]

Lonya’s Asymmetric Recordings returns this week, welcoming Starkato back to the label for his debut EP ‘Astral’. Having last appeared on the Israeli imprint in April of last year (with sometime studio partners TH;EN), the German artist now returns presenting his debut EP alongside a remix from John Cosani.

Spread across three tracks it's the title selection 'Astral' which gets the release underway. Meticulously produced, the piece begins with warm punchy beats, crisp percussion and a deep rolling groove. Beautiful yet gritty, raspy synths play off a plonky theme for a unique sonic contrast across the first act, while the main break further accentuates this relationship, ultimately leading to a powerful drop. The second selection 'Curtis Road' moves closer to melodic techno territory with a spacey arp and granular stabs. Tonal clusters soon fade to prominence before a wave of modulation opens up the narrative further, as warm pads and smooth chord changes deliver an emotionally satisfying finale. The third and final original 'Apply' comes in as the most emotive of the three. Anchored by buzzing waves of bass, it’s rugged appeal is undeniable. Celestial pads lift the mood as the first act evolves before free form harmonics initiate the main break. Elegant and emotive, the near two minute interlude unlocks the spiritual core of the piece before a smooth transfer of energy foreshadows a glowing finale.

The lone interpretation on the release is provided by Asymmetric label artist John Cosani who returns for his fifth appearance. He brings a deeper vibe to 'Curtis Road' with great results. The tempo shifts down and the groove opens up for a spacious seven minute journey. The main themes have been dubbed down for a sleeker more late night feel while opening up just enough to bring some cosmic appeal to the main break. A heady interpretation from John and our favourite version on what is another great release from Lonya's Asymmetric Recordings. Highly recommended.

Buy: https://bit.ly/2HBjxF4

Release Date: 25-03-2019

Release Promo: http://releasepromo.com

► YouTube: bit.ly/ProgressiveAstronautSubscribe
► Soundcloud: bit.ly/ProgressiveAstronautSC
► Website: bit.ly/ProgressiveAstronautWEB
► Facebook: bit.ly/ProgressiveAstronautFB
► Twitter: bit.ly/ProgressiveAstronautTW
► Instagram: bit.ly/ProgressiveAstronautIG
► PA Booking Enquiries: management@progressiveastronaut.com