Artist: Starkato
Title: Polar Lightning
Release Date: 14 October 2022

The latest release from Tash's Movement Limited welcomes Starkato to the label for a new EP. The German artist has spent considerable time on parent imprint Movement Recordings, notching eleven discography credits since making his debut in 2018. Also laying claim to releases on Hernan Cattaneo's Sudbeat Music, Beatfreak and ICONYC, the Wiesbaden resident remains an in-demand talent across the melodic techno landscape. Now adding Movement Limited to his resume, Starkato debuts on the label with an artist showcase entitled 'Polar Lightning'.

Spread across four tracks, it's the mood setting piece 'The 16 Bit Child' which gets the EP underway. Smooth and mysterious from the outset, its growling low end and cinematic swells provide a dramatic narrative, while broken beats, retro acid-lines and fluttery synth clusters make for an enlightening journey. The second selection 'Go West'' surveys a similar design profile but with dance floor minded approach. Beginning with delicate beats and wavy arps, Starkato uses this pulsating energy to introduce dulcet tones and symphonic synth phrasing onwards to a tastefully ethereal finale.

The EP's halfway point is marked by the title selection 'Polar Lightning' which finds Starkato continuing to flex a lighter side of his repertoire. Bulbous beats and cascading bass stabs provide the foundation, while playful arps marry emotive phrasing. An arp-tastic break highlights the piece, flowing through tastefully poignant modulation, before a flurry of drums sparks a mesmerizing finale. The release concludes with 'Parasite' where Starkato explores a deeper heartfelt narrative. Creamy pianos provide the mood early on, set against a nature-centric backdrop, as dusty percussion gently builds into spirited overlays a colourful finale. It rounds out an inspired collection of music from Starkato, making for an excellent debut on Movement's thriving Limited division.