Niko Tzoukmanis

With the re-emergence of trance as a cool and contemporary dancefloor sound it should be no surprise that it has been finding a way back into the ambient and downtempo worlds, too, and as a cornerstone of many tracks no less. Greek academic and producer Tzoukmanis, who holds a PhD in Mathematics(specialising in Functional Analysis and Calculus of Variations), certainly seems to understand the power of those arpeggiated melodies.

Having made music since 1995, you can also bet your bottom, top or any other dollar that his aural work is thoroughly accomplished, as this 2013 collection of tracks goes to show - here presented on vinyl for the first time. From subtly soaring harmonies and broken beats of 'Green Belt' to the plink-plonk, acid house infused beatless wonder, 'Free Hugs', everything resonates as much as it impresses.