Pawel

Almost ten years after co-founding Kompakt sub-label Dial, Pawel (aka Paul Komenik) comes out with his first outstanding full-length release. Born in Poland and raised in Germany, this Hamburg residing minimal techno producer has gained international success under his Turner moniker, and has compiled a long list of singles, including some remixes for Ellen Allien and Depeche Mode. In the summer of 2007, Komenik formed his label, Orphanear to accommodate his releases, while including an outlet for newcomers such as Robert Hood, Sten and Vince Watson. His debut self-titled album opens with "Panamerica," a gradually building, rhythmic dance floor gem. "Crillon" is an infectious, Detroit-inspired, driven techno number with melodically infused textures. The album closes with "Wasting My Time," a melancholic, chiming, minimal house track with sullen vocals that carry it through. Similar to the sounds of his label-mates Lawrence and Pantha du Prince, Pawel successfully delivers deep, shimmering, minimal techno that effortlessly glides one through satisfying, sultry melodies. This could easily be one of the best albums of 2010. Highly Recommended.