- In an interview with Slices, Berlin trio FJAAK suggested that they make tracks in seclusion from the city's house and techno scene, and yet their records sound like a product of the German capital's environment anyway. Gewerbe 15 / Rush, in its imposing stature and accessible groove, resembles Shed's WK7 alias: bassy, UK-referencing rhythms rumble over clanging chords and domineering 909 percussion. The combination is exhilarating.
A bassline charges forward in the first minute of "Gewerbe 15" like a series of power surges—it brings to mind the electronic spasms of Objekt's early 12-inches. Once it breaks into a 4/4 flow, it jumps into fourth gear, with outsized bass drums, dramatic synth breaks and furiously whipping hi-hats. Jangly chords and a diva's insistent cry drive "Rush" along at a similarly hectic pace, but its rhythm stays fluid, easy and fun. Gewerbe 15 / Rush actually sounds like a record that could have been made about five years ago—seemingly inspired by the techno/bass crossovers of that period—but it offers a fresh angle on a blend of familiar ideas.
TracklistA1 Gewerbe 15
B1 Rush