Franco Cinelli has definitely proved his metal over the course of his career. The Argentine producer has a propensity for an otherworldly brand of house and techno which really separates his talents from his peers, and delightfully, it’s an explorative way of working which again comes to the fore on his latest LP for Kasper’s seemingly always on-show Esperanza label. Indeed, this new album is vintage CinellI, and one where his undoubted musical prowess really shines through. There’s nothing in any way generic on show, and instead, what we’re greeted with is a series of cuts which demonstrate his ability to toe the line between the genres in emphatic fashion. Sure, it’s more a club ready selection of tracks than it is an album per se, but that’s not taking away from its merits one iota. It starts in blistering fashion, with ”I Feel It” the sort of track which brilliantly merges classic and contemporary timbres. An intriguing outlay, it’s nothing if not an auspicious start to life for an album with multiple high points.
The journey continues brilliantly thanks to ”Chi-Trax”; a Chicago-inspired effort which pays homage to the city in seriously unruly but downright excellent fashion. Stuffed full of hidden crevices and mounds of personality to boot, it adds an extra dimension to the album if nothing else. ”Cargo”, with its rough, raw and ready analogue persuasion is another favourite, but my pick of the litter is ”Slippery Arp”; a track which is so fraught with ominous stylings that it should come with a health warning for wherever its let out of its cage. If it’s a series of club-ready party starting cuts that you’re after, then look no further: pastor Cinelli has answered your prayers.
4 out of 5
Reviewed by Ian Fleming
