Cera Alba’s stock has really soared in recent times, and one quick listen to his discography and it’s obvious why. His is a sound that’s diverse and eclectic and always interesting, while – unlike a slew of his contemporaries – he’s always quick to take chances where others don’t. It’s a way of working that’s brought his talents to an interesting array of labels, and Steve Lawler’s VIVa are the latest in line here to play host to a producer whose sound is hard not to embrace. The name of the EP in question is Synthetic Artistry, and to give the British native credit where it’s due, it’s not one that’s in any way out of line with the sounds that comprise it. Indeed, it’s ‘Synthetic Artistry’ that gets us underway, setting its stall out in a manner that proves the producer means business. A pulverizing number with a smidge on well thought out acid lines at its core, it’s the most devastating of the lot here. ‘The Limit’ is another booming bassline led track, and one that’s as catchy as it is sure to work on the floor. The percussive jingles are a really expert touch, as they showcase the sound of a producer who knows his craft well. ‘Bounce’ is another heady effort with some comically ghetto vocal strands, before ‘Kreuzberg’ – the producer’s homage to the Berlin district – sees us out the door in typically unrestrained fashion. If it’s a bountiful array of quality house music tracks you’re after, then your prayers have been answered with this one.
5 out of 5
Reviewed by Ian Fleming
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