Tennis' legacy is carved in stone at this point, the label will be true to it's name as a timeless staple in forward-thinking production. After a massive week as a standout two-day event at Sonar and opening the white isle, the Life and Death crew continue the summer celebrations with their newest EP by Israeli producer Autarkic. As a self-described purveyor of 'soulful dance music with a post-rock aesthetic', this one falls in the latter category for the tastemaker imprint. Reflecting the progressive sound of the city itself, this Tel-Aviv-based producer is a shining example of innovative club culture. Marking his debut on Life and Death, Autarkic is one to watch. 

Stream Heavy Dreamer Ahead of the Double Vinyl

The four-track vinyl double pack embodies an artist stuck between generations. Dedicated to analog, all tracks present a stream of consciousness take on psychadelic shades of punk, dance, and disco. Feeling like a night at the Hacienda, Autarikc's utter disregard for current trends is what artists need in a role model. Temperate live percussion sets a stage for synthetic exploration in title track 'Heavy Dreamer'. Lost in 8 minutes of ever-changing melody, the dominant punk rock leads are the only resemblance of a chorus and resonate like a stage of full stacks. The title track stands as a testament to this new wave of artists, coming from the shores of Israel’s Mediterranean coastline. 

Ever­present tones of kraut and punk rock flow throughout the EP, beginning with Some Things To Keep, a pumping, warehouse floor­filler. Autarkic steps up to the mic, often re­amping and distorting his vocal delivery, placing it alongside finely­programmed keyboard riffs, tough drums and further psychedelia. Realistic Guru, the trippiest of the lot, is tailor­made for an early­morning DJ Tennis after­party excursion. Slowing down the pace on Powerhouse, Autarkic hints at moments of Bauhaus’ and Tones on Tail’s doom­and­dance pop, while offering­upa digital­only, stripped­down, bonus version. 

Yet another cornerstone in the catalog of this unstoppable brand, these sounds are the ones we wait for. Evidence that Tel-Aviv is an artistic breeding ground for an elegant sub-culture, make sure it's on your radar. Catch the Life and Death movement as Tennis and crew continue to spread the modern techno-punk gospel.