Juan Atkins has never seemed content to rest on his laurels as one of techno’s founding fathers. After laying the genre’s foundations in Detroit nearly 30 years ago, he’s continued to shape its development under a number of aliases and with a handful of groups; to this day the names Model 500 or Infiniti make techno fans’ eyes light up with reverence. He’s remained relatively prolific within the last decade or so as well, even when considerably more attention was being paid to his early work. But in 2010 the living legend made it clear he would no longer be defined by only his legacy, starting with a new Model 500 single for the recently renovated R&S Records. On February 15th he’ll add a new single under his own name to that campaign. “Dayshift,” this week’s download, is an exclusive first look at his Scion AV-released single which includes three originals and remixes by Terrence Dixon and Worthy. Sounding alien in much the same way tracks like “Clear” must have back in 1982, the tune is a disquieting blend of careening synth lines, otherworldly textures, and steadily popping percussion patterns. If Atkins’ newest doesn’t make your own day shift seem dramatic, you might be doing it wrong. Our deepest thanks to Mr. Atkins and Scion AV for the track.

Juan Atkins – Dayshift by ScionAV