Beyond The Valley

Beyond The Valley

Anja Schneider [Mobilee]

26 May, 2008 | 8.22PM

• Section: Music Recommendations Topics: Beatport Blog
• Written by: Lee Smith

Mobilee continues its well-earned ascent with a second full-length release, courtesy of label boss Anja Schneider.

While much of her imprint’s output has focused on the bleaker, after-after party end of minimal techno, Anja’s own work (produced in conjunction with Paul Brtschitsch) has always maintained a more organic appeal, thanks to judicious use of granular delays, distant melodic motifs and a cohesive, strangely wholesome vibe.

A similar feel permeates the nine tracks on ‘Beyond The Valley’, which despite its continuously pulsing four-four kick, still delivers plenty of charm, even during its darkest moments.

‘Mole’ is a typically Anja-esque fusion of tribal pings and languid drums, ‘Maki’ casts rolling pianos and Detroit pads over a whirring, pared-down groove, and the lop-sided swing of ‘Get Away’ is as sexy as minimal gets, with its supple bass manoeuvres and slinky synths arranged in deeply tantalising combinations.

Seductive without being saccharin, and edgy without becoming aggressive, it’s one of this year’s undoubted techno triumphs.

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