ABST 034 | DRIFTMACHINE / KOMODO KOLEKTIF “The Encyclopedia of Civilizations Vol 5: Babylon” LP

Fifth volume of “The Encyclopedia of Civilizations”, Abstrakce’s collection of split LPs where selected artists offer their own insight into fascinating ancient cultures. This time the focus is on the enigmatic Babylon, visited by two of the label’s favourite electronic bands currently active.

Berlin-based duo Driftmachine take us on a journey between the ancient cities of Akkad, Uruk and Ashur. Astonishing electronics with a superb and precise sound, floating somewhere between modular ambient, leftfield, abstract dub... Every detail has been carefully crafted in this complex architecture. Unconventional tribal rhythms recall obscure rituals, meanwhile warm, dynamic pulses contract and expand, interacting on their journey along the sandy roads of the Mesopotamian basin and leading you into a deep trance.

Glasgow-based project Komodo Kolektif delves into the Babylonian vision of magic through the figures of the Kassaptu (witches and wizards) and the use of Mandragora. A blend of both tribal primitivism and a futuristic vision is provided by their vast arsenal of vintage synths and effects units, eastern metallophones and traditional hand percussion. Deep, psychedelic electronics that capture the spirit of ancient Babylonian sacred ceremonies and their vision of the cosmos.
This deluxe edition includes an extensive booklet with notes and images about Babylon, to help you to immerse yourself in this fascinating civilization while you listen to the music. The sleeve is printed in the old way: letterpressed with metal movable type, as Gutenberg used to do it, on high-quality recycled papers.

Mastered by Colin Potter. 500 copies limited edition, no repress. 

ABST 035 – CRISTOV “Defragmentierte Assoziationen” LP

Abstracke presents Cristov’s debut LP. The Hamburg-based artist and designer Christoph Lohse delivers an amazing record inspired by technology and dystopia. German futuristic electronics, mechanical synths, primal rhythms… a cold, sometimes industrial sound, balanced with the jazzy acoustic drums and percussions performed by Manuel Chittka.
Influenced by Ike Yard, Craig Leon, Monoton, and the German kraut maestros renewed by people like Kreidler, Die Wilde Jagd, Tolouse Low Trax…

Mastered by Rude 66. Artwork by French artist Paul Loubet. paulloubet.com

Packed in black thick sleeves with a special sticker: experimental offset printing in black and a special silver ink printed twice on fluorescent red paper.

Super limited edition, only 200 copies!!! No repress.