- One thing that labels who release digitally can always lord over vinyl-only labels like Nous'klaer Audio is that they'll never have a stick jammed into the spokes due to a dodgy test pressing. This EP from Dutch producer Oceanic had to overcome that hurdle, which delayed its release by weeks. Once inside Blanco Bero, it becomes clear that it's quite a departure from the Rotterdam label's first outing. Whereas Matthais's Isms dealt in experimental techno with a strong Border Community flavor, Oceanic delivers four more traditional 4/4 dance floor grooves, albeit with the occasional foray into quirkiness.
"Tijuana Blanco" is one of the EP's more straight-edged moments, all battling congas and hammered single-note chords. "Danza Blanco" veers towards groaning analogue techno, clearing a path before it with an attack of angry arps and synthesised steel drums. "Plobero" softens the mood with a sweet, reedy melody that sounds like it's played on a Dutch street organ. "Hidden Bero," with its chattering toms and South Sea Island-style vocals, is sugarcoated tribal house.
TracklistA1 Tijuana Blanco
A2 Danza Blanco
B1 Piobero