REVIEW: R100 & Amin Fallaha - DUAT 003 [Duat Records]

by Joe Foxton

DUAT (pronounced "do-aht") was the realm of the dead in ancient Egyptian mythology. A fitting name for a new label from R100 (aka Ruede Hagelstein) and Amin Fallaha focused on slow, heavy techno that transports your soul to a dystopian fantasy realm.

For the label’s third EP, the founding duo contributed one track each, starting with R100’s “Nun”. A big departure from the more uplifting material he is known for as Ruede Haglestein, this throbbing track uses the minimum number of elements to create a mind bending effect. The off-kilter sub-heavy groove is compelling and unique, capturing your attention early and barely letting up until the end of the track as subtle melodic elements and steamy drones weave in and out.

Amin Fallaha’s “Aaru” is a bigger more ominous affair. The pained moans of a giant demon echo over the driving baseline, as a cold arpeggiated synth builds tension leading to an anxious breakdown. While this material is not for the faint of heart, it will be fervidly enjoyed by those of us who relish darker dance floor experiences designed to melt reality.