Inverse EP – Best Intentions 04

Pugilist, the Scottish-Kiwi producer now based in Melbourne, has long moved between bass pressure and rhythmic sleight of hand, and this new releaser shows him pushing into finely crafted territory. His work across labels like Samurai and 3024 hinted at this shift, yet these four tracks arrive with a clarity that signals a producer refining both palette and intention. ‘Metaphysics’ stretches out first, its low-end rising against cold, metallic percussion. ‘Motif’ turns inward, driven by a rolling pulse that feels tightly wound rather than forceful. ‘Emulsify’ loosens the surface again, its atmosphere thick but unsettled. The closing collaboration with POD, ‘FKRY’, folds stepping drums and warped leads into a taut, jungle-shadowed frame. The result is Pugilist tightening his language, not so much broadening it – and the impact is stronger for it.

Inverse EP – Best Intentions 04