May: 7 bass & club releases you need to hear this month

Akito 'Turbo Blues' (Sans Absence)

Fans of London’s Acid Fantasy club night will easily recognise Akito’s sound. His sets, both live and on London radio stations, are usually propelled by an ever-flowing barrage of percussion. That propulsive energy also marked Akito’s achievements in 2016 – his label Sans Absence really kicked off last year, putting out releases by newer producers such as Sylvere and Luke West.

His new release whirls gracefully around the listener: the drums bring to mind fellow Acid Fantasy host TSVI or Her Records’ NKC, but the elastic synth pads get distorted with the percussion seamlessly, signifying Akito’s distinct sound. Opener ‘Cherry Bisous’ is all echoing percussion and lilting melodies, the kind of track that revitalises you in the dance at 4am when all the other clubbers are taking a break. ‘Spiral Sequence’ is a relentless attack of rolling snares, and ‘Carry On Comedown’ stays true to its title – loose, wispy textures and a drumline that tries hard to keep you on your feet.

9/10