Guada Bonnin — Kogarashi EP: synthwave, electro and futuristic atmospheres

On September 29th, Guada Bonnin presented Kogarashi EP, a four-track release that moves between synthwave, electro, and different forms of electronic music with a retro-futuristic aesthetic. Released via Shuriken Records, the label that has positioned itself among great artists of the scene for over 2 years, with 8 releases from producers like Jorge Savoretti, Gus Bonani, Slot, Ivo Reiderman, and more.

From the first track, it is quite clear where Guada's proposal is headed. Kogarashi has a markedly synthwave identity, with a retro-futuristic aesthetic and a sense of mystery that remains throughout a good part of this track's journey. The synth basses carry quite a bit of weight and the rhythmic foundation is powerful, but the EP doesn't seek to rely directly on techno codes. The energy is there, and it is a track that would work very well on a dance floor, but the language comes from another place.

Starting with the second track, the sound begins to open up. Rhythms closer to electro breakbeat appear, along with bleeps and different elements that build a much more space-like atmosphere. The processed vocals, with that radio effect, work especially well within the mix and help generate a more cinematic feel.

This difference between tracks is also one of the interesting aspects of the EP. While the first one maintains a constant tension, 幽 (Yū) changes mood several times and allows the listening experience to move through different atmospheres.

In Yami, the third original, a darker facet appears. The sound approaches darksynth, although it maintains that spacious and futuristic dimension that runs through the EP. The spoken vocals reinforce the dark character, and the tension is built progressively.

The remix by Omen of Kogarashi finishes expanding that universe. The reinterpretation takes the material to a darker and more personal place, with elements that may recall certain forms of minimal techno and an approach somewhat closer to the club language.

Beyond the labels, what ends up uniting the four tracks is a very concrete search: cinematic atmospheres, synthetic sounds, tension, and a futuristic aesthetic. The EP can transition from the most recognizable synthwave to electro, breakbeat, or darksynth without completely losing its identity.

Guada Bonnin built a release that takes elements from different scenes and uses them to create her own alternative universe, closer to science fiction and retro-futurism than to the traditional formulas of the dance floor.

From 091 Magazine, we find it interesting to navigate through different branches of underground electronic music and discover projects working outside of the most obvious categories.

Kogarashi EP is now available via Shuriken Records.
https://shurikenrec.bandcamp.com/album/kogarashi-ep-shkn008