Abstract Division

Form and Function Pt. 1 Abstract Division

Continuing a trend of strong releases in 2011, Dynamic Reflection's ninth EP sees the light of day. Firmly re-establishing the label's forward thinking nature and intelligent approach to techno, this release, the first of three, features two original tracks by Abstract Division and remixes by both Milton Bradley and Dasha Rush. Clouded in mystery and employing a previously unheard of moniker, Abstract Division delivers a powerful maiden track, 'Shifted Reality' on Dynamic Reflection. Combining hypnotic pads and bell-like sounds with carefully shaped drum patterns and a subtle underlying atmospheric layer the track manages to create a rare, essential kind of drive. 'Shifted Reality' leaves one with a strong anticipation for future releases from this project. If this track is any indication, that future does look bright indeed. Berlin-based Milton Bradley delivers the first remix of 'Shifted Reality' and takes a characterizing dark and creeping approach to it. By carefully distilling crucial elements from the original track, adding introvert percussion and his trademark distant, alienesque dronelike sounds Bradley shapes an emotional, dragging, stripped-down remix, perfectly suited for dimly lit basement parties. Subtlety is key. The flipside features a rough remix from Moscow-born sought-after producer Dasha Rush. Staying true to the original track by incorporating similar drum arrangements and blending a number of instantly recognizable sounds, Rush's remix introduces throbbing bass stabs and occasional well-placed broken beats. As such it succeeds in communicating an entirely different, much darker ambiance, making it stand out as the most likely weapon for peak time sets. The final track by Abstract Division is dubbed 'Fluctuations' and does its creators justice by layering eerie crackles on top of an abstract soundscape, shaping an intensely haunting atmosphere. A mix of uncertain emotions stems from it, crafting a pressing sense of something, or someone bein