Dominick Fernow, the mastermind of Prurient, Ash Pool, Rainforest Spiritual Enslavement, and other fine projects, has somehow found himself with a Berghain residency. This 12", and A2 in particular, is the closest his Vatican Shadow moniker has ever come to floor-oriented functional techno, but Dom hasn't abandoned his experimentalist roots. He forgoes the long builds and sequential introduction of elements typical of techno, instead building amorphous, mazelike compositions. The thematic focus on terrorism makes itself apparent only in the artwork and track titles, but in tandem with the sonic material makes for a unique and compelling work of art. Highly recommended, and not just to techno-heads.

Choice cuts: 2

Genre: Techno, industrial, ambient, Tresor meets Muslimgauze meets MoMA
Friends: SNTS, Korridor, Clock DVA, Artefakt, Silent Servant, Prurient - Through the Window

1. (3:38) Bermuda Drain vibes. Patiently sequenced gated synths give way to a goosebump-worthy shimmering climax.
2. (6:17) Unreal sound design. Gigantic nightclub kick + tight hi-hat/shaker/wood block programming make up a standout rhythm section. Pads below snarl and creep. Top quality peak time wormhole techno.
3. (11:15) Blend of the first two approaches. Long intro slowly slithers toward the dance floor, where 4x4 kicks underlie drones, glitches, and constantly morphing percussion.