Old Strings EP by Hairdryer: A Gritty Dive into Tech House Vibes
Released back in 2012, Old Strings EP by Hairdryer might not have set the world on fire, but it’s one of those hidden gems that sticks with you if you’re into raw, unfiltered tech house. Coming out of Russia via Setka Records, this little EP punches above its weight with two tracks—“Old Strings” and “Alchemy”—that feel like they were crafted for smoky basements and late-night dance floors.
Let’s talk about “Old Strings” first. This track is straight-up hypnotic. It opens with a gritty bassline that feels like it's crawling under your skin, paired with twitchy percussion that keeps you guessing. There’s something oddly nostalgic about the way the synths weave in and out—it’s minimal yet layered enough to keep pulling you deeper. Honestly, I couldn’t get it out of my head after hearing it once. Maybe it was the tension in the build-ups or just how effortlessly it grooves, but this tune has serious staying power.
Then there’s “Alchemy,” which flips the script slightly. Where “Old Strings” leans darker, “Alchemy” brings more bounce to the table. The drum patterns here are sharper, almost playful, while still maintaining that tech house edge. What makes this track memorable is its unpredictability; halfway through, it throws in these glitchy stabs that catch you off guard every time. It’s not groundbreaking, but damn if it doesn’t make you want to move.
Hairdryer might not be a household name outside Russia, but Old Strings EP shows they knew their stuff when it came to crafting functional yet engaging electronic music. Sure, the production could’ve been cleaner—some transitions feel a bit rough around the edges—but maybe that’s part of its charm. Sometimes imperfections give a record character, y’know?
Looking back at this EP nearly a decade later, it’s kinda wild how well it holds up. In an era where everyone’s chasing polished perfection, Old Strings EP reminds us that sometimes all you need is grit, groove, and a willingness to experiment. Plus, who names themselves "Hairdryer" anyway? Feels like a punk rock move in a genre obsessed with cool aliases. Love it.
