Backflash

'Backflash' – as the title of Kellerkind's new EP on Stil vor Talent rightly suggests – is a full-blown blast from the past that utilises 80s aesthetics in order to craft a wonderfully contemporary EP much in vain of the en vogue sound of 2011: slow, forceful goovers with basslines so big, they might just crush you. Nothing less was to be expected of the charismatic Swiss producer Marco Biagini who has already proven his wide-ranging understanding of house music with tracks like 'Länzer is a Dänzer' or 'Groovebox'.
On the A-side, the title track works around a delicately crafted, vintage Miami synth lead: while it naturally provides 'Backflash' with a nostalgic touch, its mellow qualities are lifted by a dangerously obese bassline and devilishly catchy hook. Add Kellerkind's impressive ear for groove and vocal sampling, and you're on to an absolute winner. Moving on, Niko Schwind's remix of 'Backflash' subtly shifts the original’s elements around while extending on its vocal sample – a soulful voice urges the listener to 'get it right'. When the break introduces Schwind's trademark piano keys and shuffling rhythmic structures, it's clear that the SVT stalwart is once again on target here.
Kellerkind continues to explore the vintage theme on the B-side with 'Disco Light', whose laser synths, mesmerising bleeps and chugging bass might just catapult you back to Paradise Garage in '78, were it not for the track's classicist house percussion. Finally, 'Down To' brings the fun back to the dancefloor as Kellerkind's own deep vocal hums serve to replace a traditional bassline. Underlined by yet another beguiling synth motif, ‘Down To’ concludes this stunningly retro-futuristic EP, which is both, sonically coherent and viciously enjoyable. A brilliant start to 2012!