With his 12" »Kindlinn« for the renowned label Kompakt in Cologne, the British producer Dauwd gives us yet another glimpse of his versatility. While at first being celebrated for standing in the tradition of Joy O(rbison) through his releases »What’s There« or »Could It Be/Shimmer«, he already zigzagged with »Heat Vision«, his latest 12" for Pictures Music. His originally euphoric kicks, his claps and vocals from his first release had already made room for a more gutsy sound that kept resonating even when was already gone. Now, »Kindlinn« is taking yet another turn. Dauwd Al Hilali, a U.S.-born musician with Iraqi roots, raised in Wales and then first living in Liverpool and now in London, presents himself on these three tracks as playful as never before. All possible influences have been thrown together by chance: The title track »Kindlinn« is a smasher, and its gloomy beats, the cow bells and its feedback-noise remind us of Soulwax’s best moments. Personally, I think it’s a bit too bold and simple to have this kind of melancholy longing fuse with the synth-bass’s exaltation, but then again, it really is a great pop-hit. The track »Lydia« has even more synth-driven melodies to offer, reminding us of Jean Michel Jarre, »Captain Future«, Giorgio Moroder, the disco-sound of the 70s. The final track »Rain Raker« does without the seemingly obligatory four-on-the-floor and instead creates a wonderful synthetic world of sounds. It’s hard to guess which turn Dauwd might take next.
Kindlinn
