As it has become increasingly clear via my posts on this mp3 blog, my major interest in music these days lies in the electronic. But as with any genre that you delve so deeply into, overexposure breeds familiarity. And we all know what that leads to. That’s where these three tracks came in for me late this year. Each one surprised me in such a way that kept me going amid the large amount of faceless electronic music that I listen to.

Wasteland– In Your Sleep, [October]

October was a pretty interesting album in its own right, but by its end the formula became somewhat tiresome. That’s why this album closer completely disarmed me. Using much of the same sonic template, but in a completely different fashion from the acedemic-sounding grime that preceded it, “In Your Sleep” is a joyous little tune that uses the overworn rave synth preset to stunning effect. Who knew DJ Scud could put me to sleep so gently?

[visit I-Sound’s website here, buy October here, read my Stylus review here]

Basteroid– Sonnebrilliant

If I appear to be in love with the Areal label, it’s because I am. Basteroid’s latest 12” has this ridiculous cut on the B-side. It’s another synth abuser, this time gleefully swirling its melodies into maelstroms of sound that rock as hard as T. Raumschmiere. Perfect for the rock fans looking to take a dip into the electronic world.

[visit Areal’s website here, buy Areal vinyl here]

Rene Breitbarth– Bob Ross

Black Strobe used this song right in their recent Essential Mix on the BBC. Of course when you’re sampling Bob Ross, PBS famed teacher of painting, you’ve already got a head start over the competition. Luckily, Breitbarth turns in one of his more memorable compositions (I’ve always found him a bit too tech inclined for my tastes.) with a rather mesmerizing synth melody ingratiating itself over top a rather funky backing track. Think “Dog Days” voiced by Bob Ross and you’re getting there.

[visit Treibstoff’s Records website here, buy Treibstoff releases here]