[M>O>S]

Amsterdam’s Delsin label sometimes feels a lot bigger than it is. Delsin is just as prolific as any good label — which is to say not terribly — but that’s alleviated by the fact that it’s more of a family of labels than a single outlet. M>O>S, NWAQ, Ann Aimee, they’re all branches of the Delsin family tree, each with their own propensities and peculiarities. M>O>S has long stood for raw, jackin’, acid-drenched tracks, and offshoot M>O>S Deep does its part to live up to its name. And while many labels change with the times and have dynamic ups and downs, M>O>S has stayed stubbornly focused and produced winners almost every time. Their newest Beyond EP from M>O>S supergroup R-A-G — consisting of labelhead Aroy Dee, G-String and Marco Spaventi — is no exception.

“Redsquare” kicks things off with spacey sweeps and rattling analog percussion, all complimented with squelching 303 lines with the resolution knob turned well up. “Beyond” forms the centerpiece of the record, with a beatless “Slow” version that sets the tone as it drifts along steadily as retro-futuristic pads lull listeners into a drowsy state. The full version adds percussion that makes it nominally a dance tune, but the groggy, early morning vibes are retained and keep the tune in the warm-up section of DJs’ crates. The record concludes at its most vibrant peak as the tough, ascending bass line and squelching synths of “Energy” provide a dose of old school adrenaline make it my favorite of the package. No rule books were ripped up in the making of the Beyond EP but the trio succeed at what they set out to do, and that’s enough to earn my recommendation.