Trekkie Trax release Midnight Runner’s new EP, reviving 90s jungle & artcore

Midnight Runner released his latest EP ‘A Voyage To The Jet Set’ last week with Japanese outfit Trekkie Trax.

Although the project is rooted in jungle and breaks, Midnight Runner’s early exposure to gabber, d’’n’b and happy hardcore in his childhood all permeate into the production style.

The EP aims to reinterpret the artcore and ambient jungle sounds of the '90s, resulting in a nostalgic yet contemporary sound.

It sounds fresh as ever, but the influence of that decade is undeniable. The EP’s dynamic percussion is a standout feature, seamlessly blending with ethereal synths, quirky samples, and bold, in-your-face elements.

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It’s tough to pick just one to spotlight, as each of the three OG tracks has its own distinct motifs and ideas that complement each other so well. ‘Manhunter’ does stand out for us thanks to its pianos and pads making up the fabric.

Its strangely soothing synths juxtaposed with the urgent percussion make for a cacophony of ethereal chaos. Especially in the back end of the track when the tone shifts, with dreamlike vocals lending themselves which only adds more urgency to the already exciting track. It definitely feels like one that’s best enjoyed at 6am.

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It’s often hard to find tracks in this style that feel just as fitting as the sound they’re inspired by, but Midnight Runner knocked it out of the park with this one.

The two remixes from submerse and Oyubi also make for a great listen. Oyubi especially has an entirely different interpretation of the bones of the track, making for a madhouse of a track. Still don’t know what to make of it, but we keep finding ourselves returning to it, which says a lot.

Purchase Midnight Runner ‘A Voyage To The Jet Set’ here.

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