After putting out a slew of self-released cuts as LKY, Figure finally gets a hold of the rising techno talent that is Nathan Lockwood. Hailing from the UK, this young talent carries an extensive understanding of Britain’s techno lineage, with over a decade of experience in the game both as promoter and DJ.
Now fully coming into his own as a producer, LKY’s tracks are informed by the loopy nature of his progenitors, while still retaining some of the core dub influences and yet always keeping a propulsive momentum going.
On his EP for Figure, title track Symmetry Zone opens with full force, seamlessly intertwining twisting rhythms and searing percussion into a powerful maelstrom of energy. The A2 Chaser is a more reduced take on the formula, rolling out a muscular groove with only a handful of elements, such as precise low-end and some curious synths doing all the work.
On the flip, LKY shows a deeper side to his work, focusing on the hypnotic element that he has become known for. Tracking strikes a wonderful balance between the dubby synth stabs and driving claps, while Formed has an almost Deep House-feel to it, imbued with gorgeous warm ambiance and teasing vocal snips. The digital format of X38 comes with bonus track Idle Ride, a deeper, more tribal affair, displaying LKY’s versatility as a gifted producer.