Township Rebellion Places a Sinister Spin on Marcus Meinhardt’s Moody “Duke”

A true gem within the German scene, Marcus Meinhardt has paid his dues on both sides of the DJ decks—as a diehard promoter, label owner, and producer—to cement his status as one of his city’s most crucial underground components. The Berlin resident can scale a mountain with his list of accolades, but even when only considering his contributions as an artist, he’s one that should never be taken lightly. This week, Meinhardt is making his debut on fellow German Tube & Berger’s Kittball imprint, as he issues a chunk of moody techno by the name of “Duke.” The ominous offering is swarming with late-night melodic sensibilities, and it’s only made better by the fact that’s he brought two Stil vor Talent regulars along for the ride: Jiggler and Township Rebellion.

Taking the ominous tone of the original and then parlaying it into their signature blend of propulsive, progressive-packed tech, Township Rebellion places a sinister spin on “Duke” that clocks in at a stunning eight-minute run. Royal-esque horns and a driving bassline announce themselves right out of the gate, while the rest of the elements gradually reveal themselves bit by bit. They lace together snappy percussion, brain-altering chords, enormous padlines, eerie one-shots, and enough tension to keep discerning heads begging for more. The end result is a dramatic rework that reinforces the notion that Township Rebellion is truly untouchable.

Available July 20 via Kittball.