It’s none other than Rob Acid, the Cologne-based DJ-producer who was at the forefront of Cologne’s acid house scene and the early 90s German trouser revolution. Starting with ‘Happy Answer’ he blasted a party-loving trail through the 90s before taking time out to recover and have a rethink, re-emerging on a more ambient tip. In 2001, he hitched up with Marc Romboy and Klaus Derichs and, after a few forays, the former started Systematic Recordings in 2004. Ambient no more, Robert is back making quality, floor-friendly with an edge gained from experience. He employs a formidable arsenal of vintage analogue gear and equipment and the end result is a provocative, genre-straddling mixture of techno, house and electronica. ‘Chrystal Castle’ might use an old school bassline while trusty acid rears on ‘Neoreplicator’ but ‘Liquid Titan’ is a deeper take on the minimal sound. The whole thing’s an aural delight from start to finish. Welcome back, mate.
4 Out Of 5
Reviewed By: Kris Needs
