the index expands into its fourth chapter with a rich collection of tracks from key label artists marcel fengler, thomas hessler, echoplex and vril. label co-ordinator marcel fengler drops scion on the a1, a non-typical, deeper house-influenced jam with a floating, mind-melting soft-focus. abstract, crafty techno meets classic sunday-afternoon vibes in this unique offering. after his wonderful 4-tracker on imf003 promising talent thomas hessler continues his run with the melodic and stark journey track, the escaper. what is initially shrouded in mystery and melancholy opens up into a funky, us vs. uk-styled workout, snapping snares and reduced percussion driving the meandering synth theme. echoplex, who graced imf002, also returns with a suitably trippy and percussive number, entitled the relapse. building into a bleepy, freaky, acidic killer, complete with some cleverly deployed rave vocal samples, filtering in and out of the fluffy aesthetic, the long-serving polish master is still on top form. going for impact and stand-out sound design, vril offers thronwagen, a mesmerising arrangement of synth layers, classic techno stabs and overlapping themes. already well-known for his powerful drums and bottom end control, this more musical piece goes a long way to showcase some of the german producers many other talents.
