- Schmutz's "Prima Nicte" was the standout on the recent Omni Va: Part 1 compilation, and with three-tracker Transgender, the Belfast pair make their full debut for the label. The EP is more straightforward and floor-focused than "Prima Nicte," but the pair's history—having brought the likes of Gerd Janson, John Talabot and Hunee to the Northern Irish capital for their Schmutz parties—makes it an unsurprising move.
The title track and "Cartographer" do roughly the same thing—that is, establish a heavy, propulsive atmosphere before piercing it with triumphant synths. The pick of the two is "Transgender," which progresses from a subaquatic mood to dank warehouse music as its acidic bassline claims centre stage. "Cartographer" is more treble-y, with sparky keys tumbling across a febrile bed of kicks and percussion. The spaced-out, bleepy crawl of "Blue Dust" finishes Transgender on an evenly paced note that offers welcome diversity.
Tracklist01. Transgender
02. Cartographer
03. Blue Dust