Various Artists - DC4 Vol. 2 [Drumcode]

Format: 12" in printed label sleeve.
CAT: DC337

Following on from the successful first volume of the newly launched DC4 compilation this summer, Volume 2 arrives with four powerful singles from the label’s extended artist family, alongside a host of label debutants. Heerhorst and PETER PAHN return after their contribution to “Dark Clouds” alongside Teenage Mutants, a former Beatport number 1 and one of 2023’s standout moments for the label. Sticking with the celestial theme, “Crystal Sky” feels like a part two to “Dark Sky”, a vibrant electro-tinged track driven by dreamy melodic lines and chanted vocals, packed with peak-time energy.

Italian giants Mind Against debut on Drumcode in collaboration with Tharat; “Cloud” is one of the most interesting releases we’ve heard recently on the label, marked by a dizzying succession of choppy and distorted sounds, while maintaining a hypnotic and enveloping groove.

Up-and-coming German artist Kos:mo signs his first DC release with “Samsara”, a fierce acid techno cut that takes on a life of its own in its second half, as suitable for a soundtrack as it is for the dancefloor, thanks to its dramatic arc.

OZBEK and Zafer Atabey, regulars on the Turkish techno and tech house scene, present “My Culture”, a track full of attitude: an elegant and forceful piece, with one foot in house, techno and electro, driven by a rapped vocal line.