The “Hela” EP has two original tracks from the Spanish duo, both of which are dreamy pieces of light and melodic instrumental techno which take you on leisurely eight-minute journeys. Gentle touch synth work and dancefloor-steadying beats are all very nicely balanced. Neither track holds any major surprises but as DJ-friendly synth-prog goes, it’s the strong execution of a tried and tested formula that leaves you with a smile on your face.

They’re quite similar as track pairs go. “Balder” has a shade more determination, while “Hela” is a touch more sorrowful initially with its more drawn-out minor synth pads, which feel like they become more optimistic as the sound opens up- a track just as (or maybe more) suited to long motorway driving as to dancefloors.

Arude’s remix of “Balder” is notable for inverting the normal process often found when progressive house gets remixed. It’s the groove and percussion stems that remain more intact, keeping the mood quite similar, while an unexpected and quite twangy new melodic layer is introduced. As remixes go, it works well and adds breadth. Similarly, Paul Angelo & Don Argento’s remix of “Hela” adds a bit more melodrama, with synth stabs and some slowly introduced pulses. It’s a bit of a shame that the melodic pads have been twisted and bathed in granular and lo-fi effects here, as the combination of drama and strong melody could’ve been the complete package- it makes me want to try playing both mixes at once just to see if the whole thing feels more complete!

There’s no “wow” or surprise factor built in here, but Univack have offered up a beautiful and dependable pack of melodic and progressive techno that has to be admired.