molinaro: apron

Following a double dose of newfound Los Angeles talent, Apron Records founder, Steven Julien (aka Funkineven) returns home with the debut release from London-based enigma, Molinaro. APRON 35 is classic Apron Records material; five slabs of soul-drenched techno anchored by groove and grit from a new name with plenty of experience. Molinaro — who has honed his production and DJing craft for over a decade — is one of the capital's best technicians behind the decks. A skill most recently recognised by NTS Radio, who rewarded him with a regular monthly slot on the airwaves. The first of which shot straight into the NTS Picks for the week. Opener "GIO" cements the tone from the off, drifting in with warm, enveloping pads, quickly joined by beefy drums and percussion in a five-minute sprawl out. "JTL" is arguably the standout; a boogie-influenced roller aimed at prime time dancefloor. "TY" and "MOLOW" showcase the deeper, moodier face of Molinaro's sound palette before the beatless “SOFAR" rounds things out, paying homage to Ryuichi Sakamoto's synth brilliance.