#hashback hashish

Receivers VA is a the first in a series of ‘various artists’ EPs from New Delhi-based techno label CIRCUIT. Led by Ashish Sachan AKA Hashback Hashish, the CIRCUIT label presents forward-thinking electronic sounds, effectively exposing another side to India’s always fascinating musical landscape. The three tracks on Receivers VA make this clear, led by Hashback Hashish’s own cut “Output”. Dark and percussive, this track showcases a unique rhythmic structure, given weight by commanding throbs of bass that will shake the speaker bins. The mood is expanded on through the next track, the buzzing “Novembrie” by New Delhi’s MachineX. The tempo is low and slinky, providing the backbone to layers of synthesized tones and textures, giving way towards the end to a surprising piano and strings breakdown. The release closes in a big way with “H(CHB11Cl11)”, a collaboration between Hashback Hashish and 5Volts (Wind Horse Records, Soupherb Records). This one transmits a refreshing dose of gritty funk which develops through the course of the track into a tough electro work-out. As with the other cuts on Receivers VA, the emphasis is on the low end, with a good bit of acid and swirling sci-fi flavor thrown in for good measure.

Gemini Brothers (Skint / Nein) – “Novembrie is just outstanding!” Brian Busto (Serious Soul) – “I will definitely be rocking this one.” Michele Vitucci (BTE Podcast) – “Wow, amazing tracks.” Projekt Gestalten (VRAAA Records) – “Really nice to hear techno from different labels that are neither based in Berlin or Detroit. Very classy Techno, I’m definitely supporting it.” Damaged Man (Jambalay Records) – “Really nice release. Hot sound inside! Full Support.” Abhi Meer (Bhavishyavani Future Soundz) – “BIG sound. Will play out for sure and feature on radio show.” DJ Firefly (Couch Dancing) – “Nice dark acid sounds!” Harry Avers (NOICE! / 365mag) – “It’s not often that we get to hear quality dance music coming out of India ... this is a solid effort. Well done!” Taigo Onez (Bang Le’ Dex Radio Show) – “This release is amazing! CHB11CI11 is just a wonderful tune that is sure to get many placements in many of my sets to come! Excellent release!” Nedj (The Electronic Underground Radio Show) – “Output is great opener with it's deep grinding, chugging bass-line, plowing throw the airwaves. In contrast the hi-hats in Novembrie are light and sharp at the start, adding to that a heavily synthesized crunch and almost 303 acid flecks drive the track to an euphoric climax of keys and strings. H(CHB11I11) is the anchor to this release, a more traditionally formatted Techno track and moves the release from 4 to 5/5 stars.”

Just back from touring the USA and his third-time visit to Austin’s SXSW conference, Delhi’s Ashish Sachan AKA Hashback Hashish returns with his mesmerizing new EP, Zone, self-released on his own label CIRCUIT. With over ten years of musical experience, Hashback Hashish has had ample time to perfect his craft, both as a producer and performer. He has performed to crowds across South East Asia, as well as playing alongside Noisia, 808 State, and The Bug at Bangface Festival in the UK earlier this year. The release of his critically acclaimed Brevity EP in 2015 resulted in the producer being featured in Rolling Stone India where he discussed his past work with international labels – such as Berlin-based Plastik.FM, Ireland’s Nice & Nasty, and Robotica Records in Serbia – and reflecting how his music offers something for fans across the globe. Marking a clear shift back to minimalism and away from the eclecticism of Brevity, the Zone EP opens with its title track: a piece whose pulsing, deep bass line builds to give way to layered percussive kicks. A midway breakdown offers the listener a second to catch their breath from the industrial sounds before intensifying through glitchy, warped synths to create a dark and futuristic atmosphere. The original is joined by a special remix, which sees “Zone” reworked by fellow Indian producer _RHL, real name Rahul Giri. _RHL has been recognized for his footwork productions as glimpsed through the remix’s syncopated rhythms, slow bass lines, and subtle-yet-sultry sound effects, whilst still retaining elements of Hashback Hashish’s driving original mix. Two more remixers later appeared: French house pioneer Clyde P, placing a rather cosmic template on top of the Delhi talent’s curious abstraction, and Hashback Hashish’s compatriot 5volts – known for remixes and releases on Wind Horse Records – delivering an exceptional acid rework.

Tronik Youth (Nein Records) – “Great track and 5volts Rework.” Freddy Fresh (Howlin’ Records) – “Really liking the slower tempo joints.” Mr. Bristow (Subtek / Detox) – “Feeling this. Deep and dark yet funky – nice work!” Spettro (Get Physical Music) – “The original is well done.” Sandro Bianchi (Ibiza Sonica / Loca FM) – “Solid x 3! Especially the 5volts Rework.” Scheibosan (Shanti Roots) – “Perfect slowhouse tracks. Really on top of art, more of this please!” Ulysses (Neurotic Drum Band) – “The original does it best.” Hober Mallow (Mighty Reel – Sydney) – “Love that rhythm on the _RHL remix. Nice dark sounds all around here.” Jon Barnes (Pandora / Airpusher) – “Oh yeah, nice workout! This has some attitude.” Snooba (Radio Panik / Rif Raf Magazine) – “Great slow tempo infected tracks, dope!”

‘Chaos’

Hashback Hashish - Watching You Sleep (Plastik.FM) Preview

A layered, full EP, a collection of the new best things. Mixes by TinyType (Austria), Pedro Martins (Amsterdam), Damolh33 (Slovakia), Plural (US), Davka, The White Stamp (both based in Paris) and, of course, Hashback Hashish (India).

Listen to the EP in full on Soundcloud here.

If you weren't feeling midweek-y enough, here's Hashback Hashish rubbing your face in your current state of boredom. This was at TLR Cafe, New Delhi, January 19, 2013.