With “MINDHELMET 20”, Johannes Kolter cements his reputation as one of the most reliable alchemists of contemporary club music. Whether under his own name or aliases like J.K. Rollin or H.K., the German producer has an uncanny ability to take familiar elements – a sample, a groove, a hook – and turn them into something that instantly feels both classic and addictive. His latest six-tracker for Truly Madly’s revered label MINDHELMET is another showcase of that rare talent, and the B1 cut “Rise TTT” might just be the record’s centerpiece.
Built around the mantra-like vocal “Rise to the top”, Kolter crafts a groove that’s as functional as it is hypnotic. The bassline rolls with that effortless Kolter swing – neither too heavy nor too polite – while a deep, evolving synth line anchors the track’s emotional pulse. Hints of breaks slip in and out, giving the rhythm a loose, kinetic feel, while subtle note repetitions and tonal shifts in the synths add tension and release in perfect doses.
“Rise TTT” never feels cluttered despite its layers. Each sound is placed with intention – from the crisp percussion to the atmospheric pads that seep in just when the loop feels too comfortable. The result is pure late-night propulsion: deep enough for the heads, driving enough for the floor.
Kolter’s work often dances between introspection and impact, and “Rise TTT” is no exception. It’s a track that doesn’t just make you move – it pulls you into its orbit, step by step, until you’re lost in the groove. Another masterclass from an artist who truly knows how to make minimal sound maximal.
Words by Holger Breuer
Torture the Artist 