Havantepe - Robo Owl EP Review

Istanbul based producer Ismail Genc aka Havantepe has had something of an illustrious career. Surfing on the fringes of genre, meditative atmospheres and meticulous composition sit at the core of his sculptured sounds. And in this vein the Robo Owl EP certainly delivers. A cauldron of slung-back techno, minimal breaks and teasing electro, strung together by a dreamy common denominator. It’s majestic blue sleeve a symbolic gateway into the impending dreamscape.

A compact but in no way lacking 3 cut EP; bold yet refined, forging a dance worthy pathway to the soul. Side A’s Hooting Owl offers up a spacious dub techno number. An 8 minute furore of reflecting chords and palatable sub bass, the perfect primer to a release that insists self awareness.

On the reverse, Robochirp’s agile percussion edges the groove to a livelier pace, but not at the expense of atmospheric grandeur. Electro drive shunts layered low end progressions through an ethereal haze of orchestral synths. The rise and fall of the track establishing hypnotic form and rhythm.

Robosoul draws the EP to an ambient apex. A subtle acid sequence pivots elegantly between resonant filters and fluid breaks. The backgrounded wash of euphoria emphasising the evolving drum work. Light textures elevate the listener to a state of weightlessness - a place to embrace our temporality, or maybe something deeper still.

A spiritual trip guided by Havantepe’s deft touch musicality and nuanced production. Space is never left unfilled and repeat listens reveal further sonic dimensions. As the EP loosely charts around ideas of techno, electro, breaks and house, it’s application on the dancefloor can yield mood shifting results. A segue into new, unfixed territory. And at home? Just lay back, take stock and ascend to a higher state of consciousness.