Submit X

Keeping his identity a secret since his first release in 2009, Russian artist Gesloten Cirkel became highly regarded among serious electro fans through his releases on I-F's long-dormant label Murder Capital. Here, on his full-length debut album, Submit X, the mysterious producer produces several heavy-duty tracks that slice through the usual electro clichés. Opener "Zombiemachine Acid" is a cold, metallic instructional device that shudders with intensity and dark purpose. There's a menacing yet utterly hypnotic fluidity that flows throughout the record; the 808s and 303s metallically bounce against each other with robotic rigidity. The Russian producer isn't afraid to mix styles, with the coldwave-influenced "Stakan" and its droning reverb and blank vocals demonstrating the diverse influences of its creator. The latter stages of the record are pure Viewlexx territory, with "Feat Liette" brazenly showing off its Rotterdam electro influences with sleek aplomb. The overall feeling about Submit X is that it never sounds like a tribute or pastiche, but is a rather melodious and exciting record. Good, even substantial electro long-players are hard to come by, but this minor Murder Capital classic could be the standard-bearer for hard, relentless, and direct electro for years to come.