London’s esteemed MINDHELMET label, spearheaded by Truly Madly, proudly unveils its fourteenth release in its exclusive vinyl-only 12″ series. This iteration sees Cologne’s Johannes Kolter, known simply as Kolter, stepping into the spotlight. Departing from his typical focus on edits, Kolter presents four original compositions that traverse a sophisticated sonic landscape. From the glamorous auditory vistas of “Euro Night” and “Eternity” to the skillful speed garage swing of “Crashy,” and concluding with the rave-inducing “Lion, Ne Kaufen,” this EP exemplifies Kolter’s versatile artistry.
Opening the EP is “Euro Night,” a track that exudes an air of opulence and sophistication. The glitzy sonic skyline portrayed here draws upon influences of Italo disco and electro-pop, evoking images of high-end fashion houses and chic urban nightlife. Kolter’s meticulous production creates a richly textured soundscape, where shimmering synths and a driving beat converge to form an irresistible dance floor anthem. “Euro Night” sets a high standard, seamlessly blending nostalgic elements with contemporary flair.
Continuing the auditory journey, “Eternity” delves deeper into the realms of Italo and electro-pop. This track maintains the glitzy aesthetic introduced by “Euro Night,” yet it introduces a more contemplative, almost ethereal quality. The melodic progression and lush harmonies evoke a sense of timelessness, as the title suggests. Kolter’s deft use of synths and rhythmic intricacies ensures that “Eternity” is both captivating and emotionally resonant, transporting listeners to a sublime sonic realm.
The B-side begins with “Crashy,” a track that revels in the skillful use of speed garage swing reminiscent of MJ Cole’s masterful productions. The energetic and bouncy rhythm, coupled with crisp percussive elements, creates an infectious groove that is impossible to resist. Kolter’s adept manipulation of basslines and vocal snippets injects a playful yet sophisticated energy into the track. “Crashy” stands out as a testament to Kolter’s versatility and his ability to innovate within various electronic music genres.
Concluding the EP is “Lion, Ne Kaufen,” a track that indulges in a muted chord sequence designed to evoke a rave atmosphere. The pulsating bassline and driving beat create a hypnotic groove, while the subtle chord progressions add a layer of depth and intrigue. Kolter’s production here is both understated and powerful, creating a track that is perfectly poised to close out a set with an air of mystery and intensity. “Lion, Ne Kaufen” encapsulates the essence of the rave experience, leaving listeners with a lingering sense of euphoria.
Kolter’s contribution to MINDHELMET’s distinguished vinyl-only series is nothing short of remarkable. “Mindhelmet 14” showcases his ability to blend diverse influences into a cohesive and sophisticated auditory journey. Each track offers a unique perspective, from the glitzy allure of “Euro Night” and “Eternity” to the rhythmic dynamism of “Crashy” and the rave-inspired “Lion, Ne Kaufen.” This EP not only highlights Kolter’s innovative approach to music production but also solidifies his place as a versatile and forward-thinking artist. “Mindhelmet 14” is a must-have for connoisseurs of refined electronic music.
Words by Holger Breuer
Torture the Artist 