Radu Dracul

Techno hidden gem Radu Dracul is the latest addition to the stacked roster of Germany's Time Passages label. 'Pump Matic' is only the fifth release from the Romanian producer, yet it's the work of someone well versed in the melodic techno scriptures. The first track, 'Lightwaves', has threatening techno drums behind tranquil chimes as the phrase "I want you to know exactly how we feel" is drilled into our brains. 'Reproduction Chicago' follows with shrill screams, electro squelches and energetic drums. The title track takes no prisoners as an indistinct, guttural vox stabs over deep percussion, before 'Pimen Reversal' signs off the EP in a druggy symphony of breathy vocals and groovy chords that could rattle a good soundsystem.