Contributing Writer
Marbs and Evan Casey have an ear for raw talent, already proving their new label Desert Hearts Black as a premier support hub for melodic house and techno’s next-gen greats. One such musician they’ve had their eye on is Dallas native Mala Strana, who brings his first EP, ‘Enceladus,’ to the label following multiple contributions to the imprint’s first-ever ‘Gateways’ compilation.
Mala Strana takes listeners through a three-part in ‘Enceladus,’ beginning with its namesake track. Much like the mythology inspiring its title, ‘Enceladus’ is a gargantuan production, leading listeners down a dark path through steely melodic progressions and intricate harmonies until reaching an explosive peak post-breakdown. Moving forward, ‘Awakened’ builds off the preceding composition with a higher tempo and added layers of roaring synths and percussion. Finally, “Breathe You In” immediately captures attention with full-bodied analog plucks and cascading melodies that give off a shadowy atmosphere. The aesthetic fits in well with the afterhours’ aesthetic of Desert Hearts Black.
Before joining the Desert Hearts Black family, Mala Strana’s already built a strong reputation for himself in his hometown of Dallas, where he served as a resident at renowned venues like Secret Factory, Beauty Bar and Nora Rooftop Lounge. On the label end, Mala Strana’s work has been signed to illustrious imprints like Parquet and Audiophile Deep. Expect to see Mala Strana’s name heavily used in rotation when the club circuit reopens.