Album Review: HAYES002 by Various – A Techno Journey Worth Remembering
Released in 2018 under the Hayes label, HAYES002 is a solid entry into Portugal’s vibrant electronic music scene. This compilation album dives deep into the techno genre with four tracks that explore different shades of rhythm and atmosphere. It’s not perfect, but it’s got enough character to stick in your mind.
The standout track for me has to be "Scherzo." Right off the bat, it hits you with an infectious groove that feels both hypnotic and raw. The production here reminds you why techno can be so captivating—it’s minimal yet layered enough to keep things interesting. There’s this one synth line that sneaks up on you halfway through; it’s subtle but somehow grabs all your attention. You don’t expect much from a track titled “Scherzo” (which literally means "joke" in Italian), but this one proves there’s nothing funny about its intensity. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to rewind and hear it again just to catch what you missed the first time.
Another memorable cut is "Quantum Mechanics." As the name suggests, it leans into something more experimental and cerebral. The beats are precise, almost mechanical, like clockwork ticking away in the background. But then out of nowhere comes these lush pads that soften the edges, adding a human touch to the otherwise cold vibe. It’s as if the producer wanted to create a soundtrack for futuristic thinkers lost in thought. Tracks like this make you appreciate how techno can blend science-inspired themes with emotional undertones.
Now, let’s talk briefly about the other two tracks—"A2" and "Metafora." They’re solid, no doubt, but they don’t hit quite as hard as the ones mentioned above. Still, they hold their own and contribute to the overall cohesion of the album. If anything, they serve as bridges between the heavier hitters, giving listeners some breathing room before diving back into the chaos.
What strikes me most about HAYES002 is how unapologetically Portuguese it feels. No, I’m not saying it sounds like fado or anything traditionally tied to the country. Instead, it carries this understated confidence—a trait I’ve come to associate with artists from Portugal who seem comfortable letting their work speak for itself without over-explaining. And honestly? That’s refreshing in today’s overly curated musical landscape.
In conclusion, HAYES002 might fly under the radar for many, but it deserves recognition for delivering quality techno with personality. Sure, it’s not gonna blow your socks off every second of the way, but isn’t that kinda the point of techno? Sometimes, less really is more. Oh, and fun fact: after listening to this album, I found myself Googling quantum mechanics…so maybe it’s secretly educational too? Who knew?
