Kompakt welcome a local Cologne hero, Jonathan Kaspar. He's released on Crosstown Rebels, Pets Recordings, Ouie, and of course our own KX imprint. His single "Renard" was a highlight of Kompakt's recently released Total 19 collection (KOM 400LP/KOMP 154CD), so it was time to make the relationship official with a four-track EP. Opener "Kern" leads with layers of melodic synths power charged around a playful house rhythm. "Zentrum" is for that peak-time pace... elevating melodies caress a swelling mid-tempo beat. Not to mention one of the biggest breakdown's on Kompakt in some time. "Licht" literally sounds like it soars, then back to earth comes "Kante" - the most techno inspired track of the EP - an oscillating synth rips through solid low-end bass frequencies - with Jonathan Kaspar skillfully demonstrating prime time, peak and valley production. Kante EP brings out his emotive, high energy style of writing and producing in a means that could be pointed to as his best work to date.