Mashtronic "Needs EP"

In the advent of our new digital age, format has again trumped the traditional standard of release in Mashtronic´s ´Needs EP´. With ´Bionic Funk´ signed months ago, the duo of Mathias Bradley and CiD Inc. decided not to delay the release of new material, opting instead to partner with Bedrock to debut the label´s first-ever digital-exclusive EP. While a palpable niche has been carved out in digital-only labels like Proton, this represents new ground for traditionalist Bedrock. They´re well-known for the quality of their vinyl releases, and Mashtronic delivers an outstanding first step that will hopefully usher in a new opportunity for Bedrock to explore.

Leading off is ´Got My FM´. A meaty, thumping beast, it´s undertones are heard early on as the track builds it´s way through a syncopated heavy drum into a reverbated electro-bass synth that forms the nucleus of most of the song. A pair of analogue synths find their way in, playing off each other and carrying along the main melody as a wash of panned effects and pads filter across the top, leading into breakdowns and transitions. Not quite house, not quite breakbeat, but situated perfectly in between, this is a diverse-ranging track that will bring a funky, hip tone to the dance floor.

On the flip is the appropriately titled ´Much More,´ which picks up right where it´s counterpart left off. The familiar pounding drums lead the track alongside delayed stabs until the star of the show arrives: The bass. Less melodic than the first, but far more slamming. This is the kind of bass that rattles windows and sets off car alarms. A high synth eventually works it´s way into the mix alongside before frantically panned effects guide you into in a stylish breakdown. The stabs take center stage, the synths change up and a masterful build carries you right back into the main drive.

The ´Needs EP´ is a nicely executed pair of tracks that fit well together and contain many similar elements. For regular DJs constantly on the hunt for fresh material every week, this offers a solid choice between the two and pulls no punches. Like much of their other material, when you reach for Mashtronic you know what you´re in for. Ladies and gentlemen, start your burners.