EXTRAWELT

Extrawelt has spent the past two decades quietly shaping modern electronic music. Their releases on Kompakt, Turbo, Traum and others have built a reputation for meticulously made tracks that are always detailed and emotional. With Dystortion, their sixth full-length, they return once again to the Cocoon Recordings. The album opens with 'Grand Départ', a slow-building, cinematic swell of bass and atmosphere that immediately signals you're entering Extrawelt's world. 'Clapland' brings a unique tension that is playful in places and dense in others. The record has plenty of melodic moments like with 'Surrounded By Miracles', 'Hope Sounds Good' and 'Sir Stringalot'. These tracks, among others, deepen the mood and embellish the strong production work along the way. The title track 'Dystortion' turns darker and more sinister. 'Schone Aussichten' sounds like electro clash with a softer, more accessible approach. Lastly, 'Reverse Curse' sounds like a sorrowful ending to a world wind of emotions through the entire set. Dystortion feels turbulent, hopeful, jagged and beautiful. It's a reminder why Extrawelt has been looked at as a quietly innovative voice.