Set for release on June 21st, this is the final instalment in a series of EPs for NovaMute inspired by Greg Egan’s sci-fi novel Permutation City (1994):
The title-track ‚On The Grid‘ has been premiered by Mary Anne Hobbes on BBC Radio 6; A2 track ‚Rip Tie Cut Toy Man‘ was premiered along with an Interview by Magnetic Magazine and Norman Records tipped Nicolas as „one of the hottest prospects in techno“.
“ I enjoy making music inspired by books, it gives me the opportunity to create a musical embodiment of what would otherwise be purely imaginary visions. You know that thing where you see what’s happening in your mind’s eye? I like making music that acts as the soundtrack for that imaginary cinema. I was producing these tracks a few weeks before my first Berghain gig, so I was obviously keen to make bangers. These tracks are the resulting overlap between me geeking out on these sci-fi stories and soundtracking my favourite club.”
Opening track ‚Eden Configuration‘ combines a monolithic synth line with propulsive bass grooves. ‚Rip Tie Cut Toy Man‘ introduces a furtive synth melody tucked beneath rhythmic rumbles. Bougaïeff’s voice is featured for the first time on the stripped back title track ‚On The Grid‘, a playful alternative to dark dystopia. The result is a fast and upbeat cut, reminiscent of 90s minimal yet delivered with punchy modern production. Closer ‚Skyscrape Model‘ features a fluid acid line amidst reverberating warehouse beats, providing a sense of energetic resolution.
It’s already possible to preorder the EP in physical here, and head to Magnetic Magazine to stream the premiere. Also check out below the animated vinyl artwork created by Drewtetz and the 3D animation for title track ‚On The Grid‘ by dtriangle: