VYGR by Alex Bau: A Techno Journey Worth Taking
Released in 2017, VYGR by Alex Bau is a solid entry in the German techno scene. The album, out on Credo, delivers exactly what you’d expect from an electronic artist rooted in the genre—tight beats, atmospheric layers, and that signature Berlin edge. But don’t let its simplicity fool you; this isn’t just another run-of-the-mill techno record. It’s got personality.
The album consists of three tracks: VYGR 1, VYGR 2, and VYGR 3. Each one builds on the last, creating a cohesive listening experience. If I had to pick standouts, I’d go with VYGR 1 and VYGR 3. Here’s why they stuck with me.
VYGR 1 kicks things off with a driving rhythm that feels like stepping into a dimly lit club at midnight. The bassline is hypnotic but not overwhelming, leaving enough room for subtle synth flourishes to creep in. There’s something about how it slowly evolves—adding textures here, stripping them away there—that keeps your attention without trying too hard. You can almost picture Bau tweaking knobs in his studio, lost in the groove.
Then there’s VYGR 3, which closes the album with a bang. This track has more bite than the others, introducing sharper percussion and darker tones. Around the halfway mark, it throws in a melodic hook that sneaks up on you—it’s simple yet effective, the kind of thing you find yourself humming hours later. It’s proof that sometimes less really is more.
One thing worth mentioning is how consistent the flow feels across all three tracks. They’re clearly meant to be heard together, as part of a single narrative. Listening to them individually works fine, sure, but hearing the full sequence takes you somewhere else entirely. Like, imagine cruising through empty streets late at night with nothing but neon reflections bouncing off wet asphalt. Yeah, it’s that vibe.
What strikes me most about VYGR is its restraint. In an era where so many artists try to cram every idea under the sun into their work, Bau keeps things streamlined. No unnecessary frills, no overproduced moments. Just pure, unadulterated techno. And honestly? That’s refreshing.
To wrap this up, here’s a random thought: if VYGR were a spaceship (which, given the name, seems fitting), it wouldn’t be some flashy sci-fi cruiser. Nah, it’d be one of those reliable old models—the ones that might look plain on the outside but get the job done every time. So yeah, give it a spin if you’re into well-crafted electronic music. Your ears will thank you.
