EKKEL — Me & The Gost LP 2x12"

Ekkel – Me & The Gost LP arrives on Kalahari Oyster Cult as catalogue OYSTER81, a double-12-inch vinyl that delves into progressive trance territory with a distinctly forest-floor minimalism. The debut album flex from the Nordic heavyweight unfolds as an unhurried, groove-forward journey, its low-end weight and gloomy atmosphere setting a tone that feels both mossy and mist-laden. Within the OYSTER series, OYSTER81 follows a string of 2026 releases such as Per Hammar’s “Ohm Alone EP” (OYSTER76) and Nicola Cruz’s “Telemagenta EP” (OYSTER77), while preceding the label’s upcoming output. The record sits amid a roster that has explored deep, melodic techno and experimental trance, positioning Ekkel’s offering as a continuation of the label’s penchant for immersive, forward-thinking dance music. Side A opens with “Bella”, a track that evokes the quiet of a dimly lit clearing, its steady pulse laying a foundation for the record’s hypnotic flow. The second cut, “Spinning And Spiraling”, picks up the momentum, weaving a sense of perpetual motion that complements the opening groove and prepares the listener for the deeper cuts on the flip side. On side B, “The Cat” maintains the album’s tension, its restrained structure keeping the low-end rumble alive while allowing space for subtle shifts. “Thresholding (T.H.C Mix)” follows, tightening the tension further; the mix accentuates the track’s already precise feel, ensuring the momentum never wanes. Side C’s “Signaling Peace” introduces a more expansive atmosphere, its melodic contour suggesting a moment of release without breaking the record’s overall dark mood. The final piece, “Me & The Ghost”, closes the set with an eerie, levitational quality, its disembodied vocal hints conjuring haunted spirits that linger long after the needle lifts. Ekkel’s recent output includes the “The Destination” 12-inch on Earthdog Recordings (ED014, 2026) and the “Drum Ring EP” on Seismic Rec (SEISMIC003, 2025). Those releases established a reputation for precise, insect-like detail and a penchant for low-frequency depth, traits that are fully realized on this LP. Within the broader Kalahari Oyster Cult catalogue, the record reinforces the label’s focus on progressive trance that balances minimal structure with richly textured soundscapes. For DJs, the record offers a suite of tracks that can be layered into late-night sets, each cut delivering a steady groove suited for long-form mixing. “Bella” and “Spinning And Spiraling” work well as opening or transitional pieces, while “The Cat” and “Thresholding (T.H.C Mix)” provide a darker, more driving energy for peak moments. “Signaling Peace” and “Me & The Ghost” are ideal for winding down a set, their atmospheric depth allowing for a contemplative close. The release is presented as a double-12-inch vinyl, preserving the tactile experience essential to the genre’s aficionados. The format supports the album’s extended compositions and ensures the low-end focus translates faithfully to the dancefloor. Ekkel – Me & The Gost LP, Kalahari Oyster Cult, catalogue OYSTER81, 2×12-inch vinyl, 6 tracks, progressive trance, released 13 November 2026. Tracklist: A1. Ekkel – Bella A2. Ekkel – Spinning And Spiraling B1. Ekkel – The Cat B2. Ekkel – Thresholding (T.H.C Mix) C1. Ekkel – Signaling Peace D1. Ekkel – Me & The Ghost