- Dopplereffekt are set to drop a new EP titled Athanatos, their fourth release for Berlin label Leisure System. Whereas their previous album Cellular Automata reflected a world dominated by mobile phones, Athanatos (meaning immortal in Greek) explores the genetic conditions and chromosomal influences defining mortality.
Although its personnel have never been totally apparent, Dopplereffekt consists of Gerald Donald (of the legendary techno duo Drexciya) and Michaela Bertel. Athanatos also features contributions from 'fellow travellers' Alva Noto and Olaf Bender. On the whole it’s far more beat-driven and less spectral than Cellular Automata or Donald’s recent project XOR Gate.
It starts off with the unsettling titular track. Synth drones set in while an ominous baseline and metallic sequence emerge from the murk. Hayflick Limit sets the tone for the rest of the EP. It’s an up-tempo track with a propulsive baseline, drum machine, eerie female vox and precise, melodic sequencing. Eukaryotic Chromosomes is a standout, with its bouncy, syncopated baseline. Telomere is another up-tempo, propulsive track. An anxiety-inducing sequence is offset by a beautiful, icy melody and bass hits. Mitosis charges forwards with its central arpeggio, synthetic drums and shadowy chords matching the mood.
The music is always sparse – taking a less-is-more approach that’s typical of his production. There’s never more than four parts – most songs consisting of bass, haunting pads, lead synth and an aqueous sequence. Everything is perfectly balanced and positioned. The music is dark and ominous. It’s clear as ever that Gerald Donald was indelibly impacted by the music of Kraftwerk and Cybotron. That being said Dopplereffekt has taken those themes and atmospheres in their own direction. It’s instantly recognizable and impossible to imitate.
- Hillfolk.