AF1268 return with their third release, a four-track beauty from NIKOL. The Manchester-based artist was, until recently, best known for his contributions to MASS — a platform based between Leeds and Barcelona — where he’s long since held a residency. With a string of solo productions already behind him, plus live projects both solo and as part of the downtempo duo Between Dreams, his efforts led to a debut live set at Hoppetosse back in February this year. Those magic grooves have been quietly captivating from all angles, and now, deservedly, it’s time for NIKOL’s first solo EP.
For the premiere, we’re starting on the B-side. ‘Heartbeat of Our Organisation’ is a deep, soft groover layered with haunting melodies, over a nuggling bassline. As the playful beat winds through quaint percussion and hypnotic droplets, it takes a moment to register the brilliance of the vocal sample — the ever-adored Nina Simone, her dulcet tones breathing life and meaning into the groove.
Flip to the A-side and you’ll find ‘Evening Flows’, a spooky deep house mover that mystifies. Low-slung groove takes hold, as a clicking beat sets the rhythm. Next comes ‘I Remember My Dreams’, with a delicately warped vocal sample that echoes sweetly while machines tinker in the background. Another track that’s calm and collected, yet full of intent.
‘Shroom Stings’ closes out the record with a touch more fire. A driving acid bassline leads the charge, rested for some moments with quaint keys that breathe in elegance. But it’s soon back to business — all about the acid. Even the simplest elements keep on giving. That catchy drum snap holds attention all on its own.
All in all, this is a well-earned first solo outing from NIKOL — a sign of exciting things to come from an artist clearly hitting his stride.
Buy the record from Juno, out now.
More info on NIKOL
Instagram | SoundCloud
More info on AF1268
Instagram | Bandcamp
