Next up on fresh, percussion-loving Canadian label, Breathing Room Records, is the Aquarius EP. It comes from a relative newcomer in Bixi, the new alias for Basel, Switzerland-based producer and multi-instrumentalist Lokke aka Modern Trash Quartett. The output for Bixi will be home to more sample & house-oriented tracks while Lokke will continue to lean more towards the downtempo and jazzy end of the spectrum.

Best known for his smooth 7” releases on Amsterdam’s INI Movement, Berlin’s Beatbude and Cologne/Berlin’s Laut & Luise, this time the German producer takes us on a warm and tropical excursion for his first 12” release. 'Aquarius' instantly brings us Southward with a groovy rhythm, bird calls and a fluttering flute that transport you beachside. Rounding out the A side is 'Bicho De Pé' a deeper number with a brooding melody, thundering bass and textured atmospheres.

On the flip, 'Cosmic Water' is the most dancefloor friendly excursion with swelling synths, a hard hitting low end and a combination of both expertly sampled and finely performed parts. Continuing the trip into the tropics is 'Ryu Santos' with its deep jungle-inspired leanings and percussive workout. Closing out the record is 'Bunga Bunga', a sensual cut to close your eyes and get lost in.

The Aquarius EP is a medley of deft live instrumentation such as Rhodes keys, bass and percussion all mixed in with an adept use of samples. Additional percussion performed by Florian König. Artwork for the release is once again expertly curated by 3D and visual artist Maks Pihs, perfectly matching the theme of the release.