18.2.07

"I Just Want To Be Like You...I Just Want To Be Myself"


It shouldn't come as any surprise that Kompakt makes us just a little hot and bothered. Frankly, between their annual Total and Pop Ambient compilations, a constant stream of nearly flawless single releases and their artist full-lengths, the Teutonic techno overlords pretty much have the market cornered on our bank accounts. They've really been stepping up their game the past few months, too...and we couldn't be happier about it. Last year's "Total 7" showcased some of the bounciest productions they had ever released, hinting at some unexpected Disco influences and downplaying the chin-stroking minimalism the label built its reputation on, and recent releases from SCSI-9 and Michael Mayer are among the imprint's strongest ever. Now here we are, barely two months into the new year, and we've already got a serious Kompakt classic on our hands from newcomer Gui Boratto. Hailing from São Paulo, Boratto was responsible for "Arquipélago," one of the highlights from "Total 7," as well as a string of killer 12"s on Kompakt and Audiomatique. Coasting along dreamily on waves of technicolor synths and bouncy ball rhythms, "Chromophobia," is one damn fine techno LP. Effortlessly straddling the line between dance floor functionality and home listening pleasure, Boratto showcases his breadth as a producer, ranging from the Warp-esque abstractions of "Malá Strana" to the pure rave-up ecstasy of "Terminal." Thanks to his overt pop sensibility, it all flows together perfectly with nary a misstep during its 70 minute running time. The record doesn't drop until the end of the month, but here's a little taste to get your week started right. Consider "Beautiful Life" Boratto's gift to your Monday. It's totally going to put a spring in your step...We promise.

NEON:

Gui Boratto, "Beautiful Life" (YSI)

Gui Boratto, "Terminal" (YSI)

Today's image: Dan Lisowski's "Blushing Neon Moss Swab." Yum!

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