Charasmatix – Society FX / Up And Down

Charasmatix is formed by the union of Cybersnack and DJ Aze, both veterans of the German techno-trance scene. They first made an impression as the minimal craze swept the psytrance world in Y2K, releasing singles with Spiral Trax, Plastik Park, Flying Rhino, and Pinwheel. This particular vinyl single, released in 2002, is among their last.

Society FX is perhaps the most remarkable song in the group’s discography. Cruising at about 134 BPM, the underlying rhythm is wickedly complex, integrating tribal-influenced drumming and slick percussive flourishes. The deeply situated bass line resonates with a menacing sneer, each note plucked with a gloomy nonchalance. Reaching into the heart of the journey, an abstract alien lead erupts from the darkness. Although it is used sparingly, this wavering metallic sound is the keystone of the entire track. Excellent work!

Up And Down is bleak and remorseless, lumbering along with mean undertones. With a galloping techno beat, this song is firmly entrenched on the dirty industrial side of minimal psytrance. Kopfuss Resonator fans might get something out of it but this is too grim for my liking.

This vinyl single from Charasmatix is a real treat for anyone who enjoys German techtrance. While the B-side is a bit dull, the avant-garde approach heard on Society FX is extremely impressive. As such, it is one of my all-time favourites from this era—there is nothing else like it!