Pirupa – Can U Hear Me EP

Label: Saved Records

Score: 8/10

Considering his penchant for groovy, underground house and techno, it is no wonder that Italian DJ and producer Pirupa has found a close ally with Saved Records. Having released on the imprint before, the highly regarded Italian settles into another three-track EP for the label, delivering a succinct snapshot of what both parties do best.

Subtlety is key to opener “Wise” a track so deep and fluid that drama squeals out of every angle. It’s kept simple, allowing the distinctive bassline to ride the track forward with both purpose and restraint. Just as you think it is about to spill over, strange melodies began to slide down, providing the imaginative curveball that makes this such a great opener.

“Can U Hear Me” is an intriguing dancefloor tune that evolves and grows in intensity throughout. Starting with some tribal rhythms, the track grows into a seemingly straightforward deep house cut with lush basslines and tight 4/4s. But as the track gets older, it becomes more urgent and launches into a full on warehouse vibe with stabbing synths and other worldly FX leading the way.

Finishing things off in a more off-kilter, afterparty mood, “Sunrain” moves with ingenious freedom and dexterity. Once again built around the interplay of rolling basslines and melodic flourishes, the track runs an idiosyncratic course which steer it away from clear definitions. It is in these unmarked zones where Pirupa really comes into his own and he makes no exception here.