Album Review: Ruinous EP by Gottlieb – A Techno Triumph from Hungary
Released in 2013 under the Hungarian label Naughty Pills Records, Ruinous EP by Gottlieb stands as a solid entry in the dance and electronic music scene. With its roots firmly planted in techno, this three-track EP delivers an experience that’s both hypnotic and relentless. It’s not perfect, but it’s got moments that stick with you long after the last beat fades.
Let’s dive into two standout tracks. First up is the title track, "Ruinous." This one grabs your attention right away with its pulsating bassline and sharp, industrial edges. The rhythm feels like it’s driving forward at breakneck speed, yet there’s a precision to it that keeps everything tight. What makes “Ruinous” memorable is how it builds tension without ever fully releasing it—it leaves you hanging on edge, almost teasing you to hit repeat just to see if it’ll let go next time. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t, and that’s kinda brilliant.
Then there’s “999Lived,” which takes things down a slightly darker path. The track opens with eerie synths that feel like they’re creeping up behind you. As the layers build, you get this sense of urgency, like something big is about to happen (even though it never quite does). The way Gottlieb plays with anticipation here is genius—it’s not overly complicated, but it works. If techno had a storytelling side, this would be it. You can practically picture a shadowy warehouse rave when listening to this one.
As for “Spartans,” it rounds out the EP nicely, though it doesn’t leave quite the same impression as the first two tracks. Still, it holds its own with pounding kicks and swirling textures that keep the energy high. It’s the kind of track that might blend into the background during a set but adds cohesion to the overall package.
What strikes me most about Ruinous EP is how unapologetically raw it feels. There’s no attempt to polish every corner or soften any blows—this is techno in its gritty, underground glory. And honestly? That’s refreshing. Too many producers try too hard to make their music sound ‘perfect,’ but Gottlieb lets the imperfections shine through. It’s messy, intense, and oddly human.
In hindsight, Ruinous EP isn’t just another techno release; it’s a snapshot of a specific moment in Hungary’s electronic music culture. Listening to it now feels like stepping back into 2013—a simpler time before playlists ruled everything and everyone wanted to be TikTok famous. Weirdly enough, it makes me wonder what Gottlieb would sound like today if they revisited these tracks with modern production tools. Would they lose their edge? Or become even sharper?
Either way, Ruinous EP deserves a spot in your collection if you’re into dance music that bites back.
