Klangkollektor's Dubtapes Volume 1 was one of the essential releases of 2024 - movements in dub assembled into an exquisitely-produced suite of textures and moods. A brilliant release and another feather in the cap for Jason Boardman's (Aficionado) new imprint. For me it hit that sweet spot somewhere between Basic Channel, Boozoo Bajou's underrated 4, and the trippy perfectionism of the Almunia records on Paul Murphy's Claremont 65. Bass profundity, rolling piano, slow-mo techno, gentle acid.

Franconia-based producer Lars Fischer is the man behind the console. A musician of breadth, his drumming also fuels the rhythms of cumbia/psych outfit Trak Trak. Nuremberg isn't the first place you'd think to find a cumbia band but Trak Trak has that vibe along with a bit of psych thrown in for good measure. It's a raucous organic sound in contrast to the digital cumbia lately popularised by labels like ZZK.

Dubtapes Volume 2 is a worthy follow-on, it's more wistful and meditative and perhaps heavier on melody. "Ferry from Torkwrith" is pure elegy and contemplation. "Morning Hour" more of that midtempo piano-rolling melodic form. "Starlings" a Ashra-esque melancholy synth line riding over an echoing deepness. "Isle of Stonsey" steel pedal glissandos over a gently rocking backdrop. Lars writes: "When I make music, I’m always trying to create a temporary refuge for myself, a refuge from the increasingly frightening world out there." Indeed, comfort food of the highest order.

Klangkollektor's Dubtapes Volume 2 is out now!