L.I.E.S. Records stands as a cornerstone of the underground electronic scene, having amassed over 150 releases since its inception by unearthing gritty, authentic house and techno with a punkish edge and unwavering commitment to the raw spirit of club music. The label’s reputation for digging deep into lo-fi, analog-driven sounds has made it a beacon for DJs and collectors seeking records that capture the essence of late-night warehouse sessions and afterhours marathons. Benedek and Tom Carruthers’ collaborative Process 9 EP delivers six meticulously crafted tracks that feel like artifacts from a bygone era, resurfacing to reignite dancefloors worldwide.
Opening with “System Drift,” the duo establishes a hypnotic foundation, layering intricate drum patterns with swirling synth lines that evoke the golden haze of early ’90s Ibiza clubs filtered through a Detroit lens. “Phase Relay” picks up the thread, shifting into a more urgent stride that balances tension and release, perfect for those pivotal moments when the crowd locks in. “House Myst” channels pure mystique, its enveloping grooves drawing listeners into a timeless house ritual that underground heads will dissect for peak sets.
“Pantheon” rises as an anthemic centerpiece, stacking lush melodies over rugged percussion to create a towering presence that demands volume and commitment from any system it’s played on. “Sync Drive” propels forward with mechanical precision, syncing human feel with machine-like drive in a way that underscores the pair’s studio chemistry. Closing out, “Deeper State” plunges into profound territory, peeling back layers to reveal emotional undercurrents amid the relentless rhythm, leaving dancers in that sweet spot between euphoria and exhaustion.
This six-track offering from Benedek and Tom Carruthers exemplifies L.I.E.S.’ enduring appeal, blending rough-hewn programming with opulent synth work to forge weapons for endless nights. For house and techno enthusiasts who thrive on music that bridges nostalgia and innovation, Process 9 is indispensable underground fuel, proving the collaborative spark between these two visionaries was always destined to explode.
