[Soma Quality Recordings]

Mark Henning has released a slew of dependable, mildly twisted techno that’s seen him increasingly recognised and charted over the latter half of the 00s. By proxy, Tokyo native Den remains something of an unknown quantity. Working together, they’ve produced four tracks more commercially minded than those familiar with Henning’s discography may be accustomed to; the resulting Cosmic Marmalade EP for Soma Quality Recordings is something of a mixed bag.

“Canis Major” opens the set with epic overtures, but soon falls into staid rolling territory. Sweeping pads and tribal drums signal the entry of an insistent and jarring high-pitched synth riff. The title track is a pleasantly bouncy tech house workout until the entrance of a nearly identical synth patch from “Canis Major.” Used with caution, this would not be a problem, but its repeated use clouds what could be a decent mid-set tool. The rest of the pack fairs much better. “Driving Andromeda” features some effective beat work and a charmingly mischievous bass line that shows a real understanding of build and drive. However it’s “Sin City” that is the EP’s standout moment, utilizing Chicago influences to great effect alongside some strikingly original sampling. A pounding and swirling bass is juxtaposed with the sound of somebody repeatedly exhaling, and the seedy and exhilarating thrill of serious night music is captured with equanimity. If you can get past the synth in the first two tracks, you’re left with solid, well-paced, and mature material from Henning and Den. Unfortunately the misjudged squall and squeak of the first tunes may mean impatient listeners won’t get that far.