1MORNING — I'd Rather Be Here Now

1morning – I’d Rather Be Here Now arrives on Ilian Tape as catalogue IT081, a 12-inch vinyl that slots neatly into the label’s forward-thinking techno output. Issued on 13 November 2026, the EP continues the label’s reputation for crisp, kinetic productions, and its four-part title sequence—Transition, Exit Strategy, Octa #9, Design—suggests a conceptual through-line that invites both deep listening and club deployment. Within Ilian Tape’s 2026 roster, IT081 follows a series of releases that map a diverse yet coherent aesthetic. Earlier in the year the label put out Dario Zenker’s “The Stance” (IT080) and Fireground’s “Core Waves” (IT079), while the “Volt” EP by Seba & Paradox (IT058) shared the exact release day, underscoring a moment of concentrated output. The EP also arrives after Atrice’s “Default Settings LP” (ITLP24) and Herman Funker III’s “Rhino” (IT046), positioning it among a line-up that balances melodic depth with kinetic rigor. Side A opens with “Transition”, a track that immediately establishes a rolling groove, its title hinting at a shift in momentum that dovetails into the second cut, “Exit Strategy”. The pairing creates a short narrative arc, the latter tightening the rhythm while preserving the forward thrust introduced on the first side. Together they function as a compact set-up, ideal for DJs looking to build tension before dropping a more expansive statement. Side B flips the mood with “Octa #9”, a title that evokes a numeric precision, and the track delivers a focused, hypnotic pulse that sits comfortably between the A-side’s kinetic drive and the closing cut. “Design” concludes the EP, offering a subtle resolution that can serve as a cool-down or a bridge into deeper textures. The B-side therefore provides a balanced counterpoint, allowing the record to be programmed either as a continuous four-track set or as individual tools for varied moments in a set. For 1morning, this EP follows the 2025 Ilian Tape release “Because I Told You So” (IT076), also a 12-inch vinyl. While the earlier record explored a more atmospheric side of the artist’s output, “I’d Rather Be Here Now” leans into a tighter, rhythm-centric approach, showcasing an evolution toward sharper structural intent within the same label framework. In the broader context of Ilian Tape’s 2026 catalogue, the record contributes to a narrative of precision-driven techno that the label has been curating throughout the year. Its concise format and clear sequencing make it a practical addition for DJs seeking tracks that can both build and release energy without excessive length. The four tracks each hold a distinct place on the dancefloor: “Transition” and “Exit Strategy” excel at setting up a groove, “Octa #9” offers a focused peak, and “Design” provides a smooth exit or a looping backdrop for more experimental mixing. Collectors will appreciate the EP’s placement on a respected imprint known for high-quality pressings, and the fact that it arrives as a 12-inch format ensures ample groove space for optimal playback. The record’s modest track count and focused sequencing also make it a desirable item for those building a comprehensive Ilian Tape library, especially given its chronological proximity to other notable releases on the label. The 12-inch vinyl presents the four cuts across two sides, preserving the intended flow from “Transition” through “Design”. Its straightforward presentation aligns with Ilian Tape’s aesthetic of letting the music speak without superfluous packaging. 1morning – I’d Rather Be Here Now, Ilian Tape, catalogue IT081, 12-inch vinyl, four tracks. Tracklist: A1. 1morning – Transition A2. 1morning – Exit Strategy B1. 1morning – Octa #9 B2. 1morning – Design