BASEMENT: Marcel Fengler, AADJA, Mutualism
STUDIO: Justin Cudmore

Balance continues its tradition of classic, no-frills techno done right with Berlin don Marcel Fengler. Fengler has been active for decades; by 2005, his chops were honed enough for him to be invited as one of Berghain’s first residents. His timeless sound mixes tight flashes of flair with a starkly-controlled, tunneling energy. A recent mix for Awakenings brings out the taut drama at the heart of loop techno, exemplifying the noir-hued industrial futurism German techno is celebrated for. Toronto-based artist AADJA injects a slinky, syrupy psychedelia into her DJ sets. Her own productions, like 2020’s “Thought Dealer,” evince a refracted quality, warping the templates of techno into delirious shapes. Buffalo, NY’s Mutualism lands at BASEMENT for the first time. As a resident at Buddy Buddy, she has helped to forge and define a burgeoning queer techno community off the beaten path. As an organizer and selector, Mutualism thrives on the unexpected. Her sets are roiling, colorful throwdowns, often including some curveball moments.

Justin Cudmore opens the night, with more than enough energy to match. The Bunker NY artist is one of the best in the states at squirmy, acid-laced workouts.

■ No photos or videos
■ No phone use on the dancefloor
■ The dance floor is for dancing, not conversation
■ No glowing/flashing clothes or items
■ Respect other people's space, no shuffling
■ Consent is mandatory
■ Zero tolerance for racism, homophobia, transphobia, sexism, ableism or any form of discrimination
■ Take care of each other, alert our staff if somebody isn't feeling well
■ Violating the house rules will result in removal
■ Ticket purchase does not guarantee entrance