Benales – Tides EP

Classic Detroit-inspired techno comes thick and fast with this new EP from Benales on Mitsubasa. 'Flood' is a charged-up wave of tight, focused rhythm and bass that surges endlessly, then 'Surge' is less monstrous and more deft. The drums sway to and fro, the percussion is wispy but indelible. 'Interval' is another roomy sound with a heft, punchy low end and edgy stabs that cling to the swing. Everything is unleashed and left to go wild on the closer 'Gravity', which is a big room techno tune that doesn't sacrifice its machine soul. A smart, useful EP.