Deep techno maestro Eddie Merced continues to build out the scope of his sound with a shift into a tougher gear on his latest opus, the Test Range EP.

Up to this point, Merced's output on his R4808n label has been focused on ethereal, evocative techno led by swooping synth pads cast in mysterious harmonic tones. This latest release marks a considered pivot towards a more driving, peak time sound as Merced maintains his firm grip on the machine soul roots of techno while edging towards faster tempos and punchier arrangements.

On the EP's title track you can sense the guiding hand of Detroit grandmasters such as UR, offering a canny balance of spiritually uplifting melodics bedded into fist-pumping beatdowns. 'Take The Cannoli' has an insistent one-note lead line which lends itself to big spaces without sacrificing that pervasive deepness which has been Merced's calling card since day one.

'False Flag Operation' upholds the inquisitive atmosphere which has defined the label series so far, using a crooked electro framework to drive subtly haunting pads into curious new territory while still landing a hefty impact on brains and bodies alike. 'Radar Cross-Section' completes the set with a dazzling display of laser-focused techno psychedelia, toying with melodic contrasts and the hypnotic effect of cyclical sequences on a sky bound bed of drum machine pressure.

Turning up the heat on his project without losing the strong sense of identity he's carved out within the modern techno landscape, Eddie Merced once again pushes a deep, soulful sound that hits hard in the heart and the head alike.