Tonaco – Howler [Meanwhile]

Returning to Meanwhile after his successful full debut in 2024, Tonaco now provides further evidence of impressive craftsmanship courtesy of a new musical trilogy in "Howler".

Rooted in the cerrado landscapes of Tocantins, Tonaco is an artist trying to build a musical profile far beyond his South American home. Renowned for its rivers, soybean plantations and vegetation that develops long roots to flourish, the Brazilian is a unique figure. Trying to establish his own roots and identity far beyond his home, Tonaco has witnessed a growing body of work after 2019's "Vollus" EP on Transensations Records. Indeed, subsequent releases across onedotsixtwo, Mango Alley, WARPP and Balance Music have drawn backing from Sasha & John Digweed, Guy J and Hernán Cattaneo, while a June 2023 feature on the "Balance Selections 250" podcast, plus international bookings across Pakistan and Sri Lanka, have carried his sound well beyond home turf. No more visible has this been seen than in Croatia as part of the celebrated "Balance 2026" lineup in August.

Taking another bow on Meanwhile after April 2024's "Disturbia / Avalon / Crackdown" EP, Tonaco returns to GMJ & Matter's best-selling progressive imprint with another glittering trio of gems. The opener is a typically smooth and chunky affair with "Howler" immediately impressing with its intricately arranged percussive backdrop. As mesmerising as a hypnotist's swinging pocket watch, a subtly evolving groove builds with repetitive motif and a panoply of effects and robotised voice. Pausing briefly at the three-quarter mark to introduce a new melody and white noise riser, "Howler" quickly continues where it left off as the earlier groove hits its dancefloor mark.

Partner track, "Senvena" quickly impresses with its laidback rhythm and subterranean bass groove. Building easily across its 8-minutes, white-noise risers herald a deep motif before transitioning into a muted arpeggiated bed that is revealed gently at the breakdown with diaphanous vocal phrasing. Picking up earlier rhythmic patterns in the second half, the track is a masterclass in deep Progressive House.

The final track continues the deep progressive narrative as a huge bass note swell in "Hemp" is syncopated immaculately within a rolling rhythmic backdrop. As hypnotic as it is potent, a series of reverb-drenched risers and filtered effects keep the club-friendly vibrancy high. Hitting the high notes with snare fills and percussive dynamism, "Hemp" is perfect for sultry late-night dancefloors.

Redolent in immaculate production credentials and impressive intensity, there are no weak links in Tonaco's "Howler".

Buy: www.beatport.com/release/howler/7413704
Release Date: 18-09-2026