Developer

Western Ways EP

BY Asa ThomasPublished Dec 13, 2013

8
Though the Western Ways EP is technically a release by Developer, Oscar Mulero's three remixes indicate a spirit of collaboration. This trans-Atlantic relationship is nothing new. Both artists have remixed and released extensively on each other's labels over the last few years, perfecting a particular brand of warehouse techno. "Cuerpo" subtly chugs along at a thick 128bpm while the tell-tale distorted snares keep things snappy. "Western Ways" is an all-out peak-time slammer complete with trancey synth-stabs and a stuttering high-end. Both tracks respond well to the extensive remix treatment, but techno veteran Pfirter clearly takes top spot with his tough, stripped-back reinterpretation of "Western Ways."

This is good techno. Although there is nothing particularly new here, Developer's use of the familiar sound is deft. By the third remix, Mulero's characteristic foggy synth treatment becomes somewhat formulaic, but the bulk of the EP is nonetheless a dance floor-ready showcase of Developer's particularly poised and resonant take on techno.
(Warm Up Recordings)

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