Varuna / Mateo Hurtado – Mercuri

Artist: Varuna / Mateo Hurtado | Release: Mercuri EP | Label: Vysyon (VYS001)

For their inaugural release, the London-based Vysyon label presents Mercuri, an enchanting EP of enigmatic techno split between two distinct Swiss voices: Varuna and Mateo Hurtado. As a first work, the EP is remarkably achieved and feels special from the very first listen.

The EP is cleanly divided by the vinyl format: the Varuna side delivers high-impact, disorienting club utility, while the Mateo Hurtado side is dedicated to a deep, mystical listening experience. Mercuri successfully establishes Vysyon as a new authority at the intersection of abyssal club music and exploratory deep techno.

Track Breakdown

The Varuna Side: Club Focus

1. Remote Pulsar

From a strictly musical standpoint, this is a spectacular intro, worthy of opening any major stage. From a cinematic angle, this aperture could perfectly accompany a film requiring a profound soundtrack that needs to provide soul with enigmatic and winding textures. The kick drum is thunderous, and the rhythmic structure is evolutionary and well-architected.

2. Uvez Echos

A hypnotic track with sharp acid touches. A mysterious and enveloping sonic atmosphere that evolves through the stanzas, offering a profound journey rather than a simple ascent, culminating in the track’s transcendental mid-section.

The Mateo Hurtado Side: Deep Listening

3. An Invisible Fire, Working in Secret

Mateo Hurtado’s turn grants a moment of sonic respite to the EP. The track features an immersive, tribal, and progressive sound design accompanying the base rhythm, driven by a hypnotic flute melody.

4. The Eternal Mirror

Amorphous and fluid pads create a vast soundscape, backed by a groove-heavy bass that generates tension and atmosphere. The kicks adapt to the context, appearing and disappearing between stanzas to provide depth and a clearly dark, evolutionary environment.

The Verdict

Mercuri functions as a highly innovative statement piece. Varuna provides the rhythmic complexity, while Hurtado offers the structural mysticism, creating a complementary work that rewards repeated, deep listens. This EP is essential for collectors focused on textural techno.

While its club utility is intentionally focused (a 5), its strength lies in its profound narrative depth (a 9) and its outstanding commitment to forward-thinking sound design, earning it a perfect 10 for innovation.