BAS DOBBELAER, JAVIER MARIMON — The Future Is Behind

Bas Dobbelaer & Javier Marimon – The Future Is Behind opens the third chapter of Slippery Yard’s evolving catalogue (SY03) as a 12-inch vinyl that delves deep into dub-laden techno terrain. The release juxtaposes Marimon’s immersive, texture-rich approach with Dobbelaer’s crystalline surface treatment, offering a dual perspective on the label’s “ecosystem” aesthetic. Within Slippery Yard’s short but focused discography, SY03 follows the earlier “Induction” by Daniel[i] (SY02, 2026) and the 2024 compilation “Brain Cells” (SY01). The progression from the more abstract sound-scapes of “Induction” to the nuanced, biome-centric vision of “The Future Is Behind” underscores the label’s commitment to evolving its dub techno narrative while maintaining a cohesive sonic identity. Side A begins with “It was right in front of me”, a track that establishes a deep, resonant low end reminiscent of Marimon’s signature granular synthesis. The piece unfolds with a patient groove that invites the listener to sink into its evolving texture, setting a contemplative mood for the side. “But then I understood” follows, echoing the first track’s tonal palette while introducing subtle shifts in rhythm that keep the momentum fluid, acting as a bridge toward the more introspective third cut. “I was walking backwards” completes the A-side narrative, offering a slightly more kinetic pulse that hints at the forward-moving energy of the B-side, yet retains the sketchy, personal feel described by the label. Side B flips the perspective with the title track “The future is behind”. Here, Marimon’s dub techno sensibility reaches its apex: a spacious arrangement that balances depth with an evolving groove, making it suitable for both late-night immersion and a moment of reflective focus on the dancefloor. The final cut, “But then I understood (Bas Dobbelaer Remix)”, reinterprets the earlier A-side theme through Dobbelaer’s clean, surface-oriented lens. The remix strips back the dense low end, foregrounding a crisp, precise rhythm that contrasts with the original while preserving the underlying melodic motif, highlighting the collaborative dialogue between the two producers. For Bas Dobbelaer, “The Future Is Behind” follows his 2025 12-inch “Layers Of Territory” on TRULE (TRULE021), continuing his exploration of layered techno structures. The remix showcases his ability to reinterpret a dub-heavy composition with a more polished, spatial clarity, reinforcing his reputation for clean production aesthetics within the underground. In the broader context of contemporary dub and ambient techno, this release stands out for its deliberate contrast between two artistic viewpoints within a single vinyl. It reflects a growing trend where labels curate paired perspectives, offering DJs and collectors a nuanced toolkit for set construction—whether one seeks the deep, evolving groove of Marimon’s cuts or the precise, surface-level drive of Dobbelaer’s remix. From a DJ’s standpoint, the record provides versatile entry points. “It was right in front of me” and “The future is behind” work as atmospheric openers or transitional moments, while “I was walking backwards” and the Dobbelaer remix deliver tighter rhythmic momentum for peak-time moments. The sequencing ensures a natural flow from introspection to movement, making the record a valuable addition for sets that require both depth and clarity. The physical format is a 12-inch vinyl, aligning with the label’s commitment to high-quality analog releases. The pressing maintains the fidelity required for the intricate low-end textures and the crisp surface details that define the two sides. Bas Dobbelaer & Javier Marimon – The Future Is Behind, Slippery Yard, SY03, 12-inch vinyl, 5 tracks. Tracklist: A1. Bas Dobbelaer & Javier Marimon – It was right in front of me A2. Bas Dobbelaer & Javier Marimon – But then I understood A3. Bas Dobbelaer & Javier Marimon – I was walking backwards B1. Bas Dobbelaer & Javier Marimon – The future is behind B2. Bas Dobbelaer & Javier Marimon – But then I understood (Bas Dobbelaer Remix)