Christopher Rau - Better Times (2024)

Like many of Smallville's artists, Christpher Rau's productions are a masterclass in immersive deepness, sonic detail and impeccable sound design. It's for this reason that his periodic full-length excursions are amongst his most sought-after releases. Or, to put it another way, his brand of atmospheric, ultra-deep house and techno suits the album format, where it can be enjoyed at home as well as in clubs. 'Better Times', his fourth album, confirms this assertion. The eight showcased cuts cannily combine woozy, twinkling and tactile melodic motifs with sturdy grooves, toasty basslines and swinging drums. Highlights include starry opener 'Better Times', the heady hypnotism of 'On The Dancefloor', the lo-fi St Germain flex of 'Ne Travaillez Jamais (Still Working Mix)' and the wide-eyed, loved-up hug of 'Evin'.