Review: Ricardo Villalobos – Silent EP (PTX023)

Any piece of Ricardo Villalobos music is more than welcomed as the producers output slows down as the years go by. But an EP on Frankfurt-based label ‘Pressure Traxx’? Now that’s something to get excited about.

If you take a glance at the track length of ‘Wispa’, you might guess that this is going to be quintessential RV, alas the Chilean still has tricks up his sleeve. The A-side lives up to its name, with mish-mash of contrasting vocals that are present throughout the track. Some are loud enough to catch parts of their sentences, whilst others tease your ears and send shivers down your spine.

The vocals are placed over what is an obscenely hypnotic bassline which compliments them superbly. There’s no chance of growing bored of this one despite the length, the variations of drums and snares guide this track through a rollercoaster of emotions. The vibe and overall mood of the track doesn’t feel Ricardo at all, more-so from a techno producer who specialises in hypnotic and driving sets. Yet it’s still easy to see this one being used by the man himself early on in marathon sets.

On the flip side, ‘909 Track’ continues with the more techno route on this EP and feels far more in line with Villalobos’ musical history. There’s a lot going on in this track and at the wrong time, it could overwhelm the dancefloor. However, if it’s played at the right time in the right venue, the melting bassline and the sheer variation in drum patterns, specifically the hi-hats, could create a frenzy on the dancefloor.

Copies have flown out, but Silent EP still is available via Deejay, Redeye or your chosen record store.

Front pic: WeAre Festival