Manchineel push their live-driven techno forward on ‘Kugelblitz’ EP

Osaka duo Manchineel follow up this year’s run of releases with their new two-tracker, ‘Kugelblitz’, which lands on Italian label LETS TECHNO.

Formed by Kazushi and Chiniru, the project is built on spontaneous stem reconstruction, live percussion, keyboards, vocal processing, and continuous improvisation.

This method has shaped their reputation across Japan’s clubs, their monthly residency at Canvas Hotel Osaka, and their events at Lollapalooza, the Nishi-Shinsaibashi DJ bar operated by Chiniru.

Alongside their local impact, the duo has released on labels such as their own label Hasuwark, Naeba Records, RAKUEN, and LETS TECHNO. They also gained (even more) international visibility after their track ‘Cauldron’, which dropped in September, reached #4 on Beatport’s Techno Peak Time chart.

With Kazushi on drums, keys, and real-time stem control, and Chiniru on vocals and live effects, the two are known for sets that shift between techno, house, and other club styles…without using pre-recorded tracks.

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Their new EP, Kugelblitz, sharpens the improvisational edge that defines their live identity.

The title tracl runs just over seven minutes and focuses on tightly sequenced rhythms, fast-paced percussion, and synth layers. Chiniru’s processed vocal lines shift between glitch accents and melodic fragments, functioning as an additional percussive and tonal element rather than a lead presence.

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Second track ‘Void’ takes a lighter but still high-tempo approach. Here the percussion remains central, but the synth work and vocal treatments create a more open mix of sounds. The vocals seem to appear mostly as non-verbal textures.

Compared to the title track, ‘Void’ leans further into tonal experimentation while still being rooted in the duo’s club-oriented framework. You’ll just have to listen for yourself.

The ‘Kugelblitz’ EP will be available on November 28, with Beatport pre-orders available here.

Amira Waworuntu is Mixmag Asia’s Managing Editor, follow her on Instagram.

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