Exos - Downgarden

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  • Thule's resurgence over the past few years, after more than a decade of inactivity, has been a welcome development for minimal and dub techno connoisseurs. Following a run of crucial reissues (and the launch of a promising offshoot, Strobelight Network), the Icelandic techno label finally delivers some new material with Downgarden. The first solo release from core artist Exos in 13 years, the EP features four lean, dubbed-out productions that make for an excellent continuation of Thule's now-classic sound. The title track establishes Downgarden's nocturnal mood, moving through a couple wide-open drops at 122 BPM as reverberating chords pass overhead like a thunderstorm. "Citrit" and "Hin Heilaga Threnning" are a little faster and more urgent, with hi-hats slicing into the space between the beats. "Citrit" is about as hard-edged as this record gets, thanks to the fiery crackle in its chords, while "Hin Heilaga Threnning" is a moody, heads-down boogie with ethereal vibes. Exos's penchant for uncanny atmospheric sound design is again on full display for "Ormus": the EP's ultra-deep highlight shivers and glimmers across the sparsest of drum grooves. This potent dose of dub techno is sure to satisfy fans of both the artist and label.
  • Tracklist
      A1 Downgarden A2 Citrit B1 Hin Heilaga Brenning B2 Ormus
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