Alan Backdrop - Salko FLAC

Geared towards the dance floor, this four-tracker from Backdrop recalls the days of late '90s loop techno. However, instead of veering down a monochrome route, Backdrop embellishes them with sensuous chords ("Meamb") and atmospheric drops ("Snit"). That said, he never loses sight of the dance floor. "CH-X" is a rolling, chugging groove built on robust drums, while "DP-3" focuses on system-leveling basslines that have more in common with Bandulu's plaintive approach than Ben Sims ferocity. It'll be interesting to hear what the coming months bring from this new talent.