#79 Top Releases in Hard Techno

Lokier returns to her Light Strike label with a second EP which affirms her position at the vanguard of modern techno. Yoan Rodriguez Lokiers skill as a producer lies in conducting big room energy through electric sound design and thunderous production, and she shows it in no uncertain terms with this two-strong flash of peak-time, hard dance intensity. Mexico-born Lokier has been recording and releasing electronic dance music for more than 10 years. When she self-released the Preech EP on Light Strike back in 2020, her intention was to make music without limitations. That release set in motion a run of singles on other labels which allowed her to explore the wide variety of sounds that spark inspiration in her studio practice, building up to her inauguration as part of Amelie Lens top-tier Lenske stable. After the Back To Life EP in 2021, anticipation has been running high for new Lokier productions. During that time away, she focused inwards on what she wanted to express, determined to not be limited by the pressure to fit into a particular sound. As a result, this new release finds Lokier opening up to her many different influences and channelling them all into two visceral productions. Back To It sets its intention from the very first bar, matching a deadly hard trance thrust with visceral, three-dimensional sound design and the steely focus of big room techno. Its an instant demonstration of how Lokier has developed her process, and an unfiltered expression of who she is as a music-lover first and foremost. Pretend runs with the same upfront energy, but hits entirely differently thanks to a greater melodic focus and sprightly breakbeat rush that creates a distinct foil to Back To It. With the many distinct angles which come through in these infectious, playful and razor-sharp tracks, the Back To It / Pretend EP proves Lokier can never be limited to one specific sound, which is precisely why she stands proud as one of the most exciting techno artists working at the cutting edge of the scene.

Lokier