Returning after a two-year hiatus, Phenomena presents a new EP from label boss Elias Erium. Created by Canadian producer Elias Bouchere (previously known as Solid Stone), Eilas Erium is an artist moniker for contemporary techno music. In the genre’s ever shifting landscape, the Montreal resident has continued to earn praise from the underground’s premiere tastemakers. Adriatique and Tale of Us have been steadfast supporters dating back to 2017, and moving forward with a renewed focus Elias’ upcoming agenda looks set for a similar fate. With an EP for Eleatics subsidiary Aletheia Recordings setting the course for the new moniker, Elias now returns to his Phenomena imprint with a two-track showcase entitled ‘Harvester’.

Beginning with title selection Elias explores the subterranean regions of hypnotic techno. Energetic and rhythmic in all the right ways, exotic percussive arrangements and shapeshifting textures descend over a pulsating foundation. Gradually opening up across the first act, it’s a subtle rise in tension which initiates the main break. Modulation peaks against a backdrop of shadowy design as the centrepiece evolves, eventually giving way to the meditative groove for a mystical finale.

The companion piece ‘Spearhead’ follows suit with another sleek techno-minded narrative. Backed by a smooth, hip swinging groove, it’s bounce and drive quickly become infectious. Buoyant chord stabs and devilish vocal fragments emerge as the journey evolves, eventually giving way to a one-minute interlude. Harmonic refrains keep rhythms locked across the break, smoothly segueing into a driving finale as flurries of drums and vocals proliferate in a dynamic crescendo.

Destined to be favoured by a broad range of DJs over the coming months, the ‘Harvester’ EP makes for a promising start to Elias Erium’s impending audio travelogue.