Safir - Tessa EP

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  • London's Metroline Recordings was formed in 2005 when three techno enthusiasts decided to put their heads together, create a label and release the style of music that they loved. A common story, but the label and its digital sister, Metroline Limited, have come a long way since these humble beginnings. Deep, unusual and often quite daring, Metroline has made a name for itself in a time and place where the big boys rule the charts and the safe route has been so heavily carved out. "The minimalistic sound of the Berlin club scene gave me the basis for this sound... I bring my sets on a point, there they don't have safety or certainty," says Berliner Safir. His production is fairly stripped, allowing the elements to shine through, which radiate plenty of soul and warmth. The opener to this release, "Air Breath," is a strange little tune. The melodies are short and the track never quite settles into a groove. It sounds like it's trying to do too much, lacking conviction or direction. The EP gets better from there, though. "Casa MIA," is sparse and operates at an unhurried place; vintage synth washes, heavily filtered voices and loose toms create a dark, but friendly atmosphere. Horn stabs and well-balanced repetition build a decent after-hours groove. "Juame I" also features Safir's sleepy, breezy brass, with beats that are delicate, but tight and punchy. "Somebody" is more upbeat; percussion heavy with claps, toms and timbales playing for dominance throughout. It's certainly the DJ pick—more than your average tech house cut for the dance floor, but while Tessa is an enjoyable ride while it lasts, you may not fall in love. The Metroline 12-inches are the real weapons to hunt down.
  • Tracklist
      01. Air Breathe (Original Mix) 02. Air Breathe (Octad Mad Horn Mix) 03. Casa Mia 04. Jaume I 05. Somebody
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