Dutch innovator Bart van Rijn steps up on his own STUG label with his first full solo EP following standout releases earlier. Once again he shows off his arresting house and techno style across five fantastic cuts.

Previously, each EP has come with a high profile remixer, but this time he takes care of all the music himself. It comes after six years of building a fine name for himself and a unique sound with releases on Proton and Rosedale as well his own label.

He kicks off here with 'Pre,' an electric seven minute journey of captivating techno, with snapping hits and wiry synth work grabbing your attention. The deeper 'Far' then has spine tingling pads swirling round over slick drums that get you into a state of hypnosis.

Pairing things back once more, 'Day' is a majestic showcase of van Rijn's ability to craft soulful, futuristic synth lines over driving beats that are brimming with warmth and atmosphere. Things get weird and wonderful on 'Fyr' with its twisted synth motifs, dubbing bass and icy hi hats all bring a perfect afterparty vibe.

Last of all, 'Cup' is a serene techno trip to the cosmos on glowing pads, with crashing hits and real Detroit energy. This is a landmark EP from Bart van Rijn — here’s to much more of the same soon.

STUG Music

Label from The Hague, Netherlands.