The collaborative project of Iranian electronic producer Sharokh Dini (responsible for early nineties house 12″s on labels such as Cause N’ Effect and Strictly Rhythm) and German classically trained multi-instrumentalist Andreas Kohler (himself previously behind tracks for Harthouse and F-Comm), this debut album as Shahrokh Sound Of K sees the duo following a decidedly post-minimal tech / house trajectory that takes in the added warmth of live instrumental performances, as well as an impressive cast of guest vocalists. Opening track ‘Break It Down’ is certainly emblematic of the general aesthetic at work here, with Sydney-based vocalist Jamie Lloyd contributing his more indie-centred vocals to a lush, streamlined backdrop of clattering house rhythms, the addition of feathery guitars and double-bass adding extra warmth and texture to the the clinically-sculpted programmed beats that roll beneath.
While the majority of the 13 tracks collected here lean towards exquisitely crafted, chilled after-hours house atmospheres, complete with subtly-placed live instrumentation – witness Siri Svegler’s chanteuse turn on the electro-laced ‘Leave Your Hat On’ and Robert Owens’ unmistakeable appearance on ‘After All’, perhaps the most stripped-back ‘main room’ techno moment here, it’s the odd digression into other styles that adds to the intrigue factor here. ‘Ilike’ sees things shifting more towards retro P-Funk vibes, complete with thick Troublefunk-esque basslines and waspy George Clinton style synths, while ‘Big Boys’ sees Toyin Taylor contributing his deep MC vocals to a spidery backdrop of clicking electro rhythms and sub-bass on a tale of urban alienation in Berlin that’s easily one of the biggest highlights here. All in all, ‘Dripping Point’s represents an impressive debut from the Shahrokh Sound Of K pairing as well as one of the most worthy chilled tech / house listens I’ve enjoyed in recent months.
