Argentina-based record label Akasha Records makes its first step into the world of vinyl with a versatile EP from rising producer Delazar.
The project is run by Sancturu and Zarem, two devoted collectors and artists who have expressed their tastes through an extensive Bandcamp catalogue. Focusing on sharp and mystical club sounds, the output has showcased various producers from their motherland, as well as several DJ sets streamed against a mountainous backdrop in Argentina.
Delazar explores his sonic expressions with four original tracks covering everything from gentle ambient, full power club music and delicate after-hour energies. Here we focus on the A1, a devilish house-driven track packed with mysticism and intrigue titled ‘Monkey Slayer’. Sounds are short and snappy, bending through a unique, off-beat rhythm that keeps you on your toes.
A spiralling bassline works as a solid foundation, allowing for a otherworldly psychedelic palate to wash overhead. Peculiar chords bring a sense of delicacy and colour to the otherwise high-energy atmosphere, creating a lush contrast between urgency and calm. You can picture a peak-time moment being floored by the immersive arrangement, with surprises on every corner, the beat evolves in a jam-like state, with subtle textures and sharp hi-hats fizzing in and out of the mix.
It’s the sign of a producer in fine form, following several well received releases for the likes of Strain Records and his own label Mauna Prasāda. The name of his personal project gives a good insight into the mind of his creations, noting that mauna (मौन) refers to “silence” and prasāda (प्रसाद) refers to “essence” or “grace”. This nod to ancient spiritual themes is evident in the music, relaying a feeling of the unknown and the mysterious essence that this strain of more psychedelic music often taps into.
The title track also sees a deftly remix from Deep Mariano, bringing a fruity 80s vibe to the mix. Percussion takes on a much more playful approach, caressing a buoyant bassline that could be straight out of Bronski Beat from 1984.
Things take a deeper dive on the B side with ‘After’. A luscious chord sequence that feels slightly more electro and Carl Finlow-esque sets the tone for a pensive excursion into more emotive, after-hour friendly energies. Quirky acid lines bring an element of fun to the vibe which fits perfectly against the more atmospheric and deep pads simmering away.
‘Reincarnation’ maintains the deep vibe on the B2, exploring a fiery mood with both eyes firmly on the dance floor, whilst managing to explore a deep state of mental contemplation. Trippy vocals slip over the beat, channelling a similar 80s vibe through stunning synth work that definitely stands out.
The record even manages to squeeze in a delightful ambient episode on the B3. ‘Memory Access (Ambient Mix)’ strips everything back and allows the luscious synth work to shine. Delazar is definitely finding his feat within tripped-out and experimental club music, whilst Akasha Records are just getting started with their analogue output.
Buy the record from Runas Distribution.
More info on Delazar
Soundcloud | Instagram
More info on Akasha Records
Soundcloud | Bandcamp
