ACERBIC — Doom Circuit EP

Acerbic – Doom Circuit EP arrives on Perc Trax as catalogue TPT110, a 12-inch vinyl that stakes a claim in the acid techno realm. The UK underground stalwart, also known as Ant and operating under aliases such as Chicago Loop, returns to the label after his remix of Perc’s “Imperial Leather” made a strong impression last year. With four tracks that blend hard-driving club energy and a forward-moving vision of techno, the EP marks Acerbic’s overdue full release for Perc Trax. Within the Perc Trax catalogue, Doom Circuit EP follows a series of releases that have cemented the label’s reputation for raw, floor-focused output. Earlier entries include the “Soft Launch EP” (TPT103, 2025) and the “The Cut Off Remixed” series (TPT101/102, 2025), as well as the “Temperature’s Rising 2025” collaboration (TPTX006). These records have built a lineage of kinetic, bass-heavy material, and Acerbic’s new EP continues that trajectory while adding his distinct approach to acid-inflected techno. Side A opens with the title track “Doom Circuit”. The piece has become a staple in Perc’s own sets, delivering a relentless drive that propels the dancefloor forward. Rather than relying on classic 303 squelch, the track employs a succession of computer-generated bleeps that fulfil the acid role, creating a mechanistic groove that feels both futuristic and immediate. The second A-side cut, “Lukla”, shifts the mood with floating lead lines and looping house-style stabs, while a hint of London underground acid threads through the mix. The contrast between the two sides offers a subtle narrative: from the kinetic thrust of “Doom Circuit” to the more melodic, echo-laden atmosphere of “Lukla”. On the flip side, “Metroliner” (B1) injects the highest dose of energy on the EP. A stomping kick and clap rhythm underpins synth stabs that recall the intensity of Luke Slater’s classic “Forklift”, delivering a track that is built for peak-time impact. The final cut, “Helter-Skelter”, pulls the momentum down a notch, focusing on intricate percussion work. Its stripped-back structure makes it an ideal mixing tool for DJs who wish to weave more creative transitions, offering a percussive playground that rewards subtle manipulation. Acerbic’s recent output places the Doom Circuit EP in a productive period for the producer. Earlier in 2025 the artist issued “Sound of the Silver Box EP” on Dexstar Recordings and the three-disc “Big Fast Super Buzz” on Stay Up Forever Records, both of which explored dense techno textures. The “HAZCHEM 27: Limited Edition” arrived earlier in 2026, while the “Acid Union EP” is slated for later in the same year on Stay Up Forever. This EP therefore sits between those releases, showing a refinement of his acid-techno language that leans more on digital timbres than on traditional 303 lines. In the broader context of contemporary underground electronic music, Doom Circuit EP exemplifies the ongoing dialogue between classic acid aesthetics and modern production. By substituting the iconic 303 sound with computer bleeps, Acerbic nods to the genre’s heritage while pushing its sonic palette forward. The record’s placement among Perc Trax’s recent output underscores a shared commitment to high-intensity, club-ready material that remains adventurous in its detail. For DJs, the EP offers clear functional value. “Doom Circuit” and “Metroliner” provide immediate, high-energy peaks suitable for opening or climax moments, while “Lukla” and “Helter-Skelter” serve as versatile bridges or deeper, more textural sections within a set. The percussive focus of “Helter-Skelter” in particular invites creative layering and can be used to transition between contrasting moods without losing momentum. The record is pressed as a 12-inch vinyl, matching the format expectations of techno collectors and DJs who favour analog fidelity. Its straightforward packaging aligns with Perc Trax’s aesthetic of no-frills, performance-oriented releases. Acerbic – Doom Circuit EP, Perc Trax, catalogue TPT110, 12-inch vinyl, four tracks. Tracklist: A1. Acerbic – Doom Circuit A2. Acerbic – Lukla B1. Acerbic – Metroliner B2. Acerbic – Helter-Skelter