YAK

Labels: R&S Records, Version, 3024

R&S Records recently welcomed emerging UK techno producer Yak, a.k.a. John Randall, on board with a blistering 5 track EP of rugged, broken beat techno. The release follows up outstanding EPs on Berlin's Version and Martyn’s 3024 imprints, and VA releases on UK labels Le Chatroom and Brotherhood Sound System.

A classically trained instrumentalist with talents on the oboe, saxophone and guitar, Randall is from Surrey originally but has more recently been based in Sheffield and first started making a name for himself as a resident DJ at the city's seminal Pretty Pretty Good parties. He soon picked up the production bug though and in the last couple of years has put out a number of certified heaters, most notably the propulsive, percussive techno of 2017’s Mido EP on Version, which reached the top of Phonica’s illustrious 'Singles of the Year' list. Finding a kinship with the off-kilter grooves found on UK labels Swamp 81, Hessle Audio, Livity Sound and Timedance among others, Randall’s releases have been heavily supported by just about everyone, including the likes of Ben UFO, Midland, Joy Orbison, Objekt, Call Super, Or:la, Laurel Halo and Roi Perez, and have marked him out as a big name to watch.

Randall’s attention to detail and sonic craftsmanship, paired with his irresistible rhythms, are a key part of what makes his music so alluring and unique. “I think the music I make is always underlaid with a strong percussive foundation first and foremost,” Randall explains “I think interesting and groovy percussion makes the difference between a track that’s cool to listen to and a track that makes you move your body.” With loads more lined up in 2019 and beyond, now seems to be Yak's time.